June 2014 Issue

How To Choose the Right Cruise

Cruising for the first time can be incredibly intimidating. A brief internet

search can leave you reeling- there are so many options, so many

locations, and a lingo that seems to just enshroud everything in mystery.

But choosing the right cruise ship for your first cruise isn’t difficult. With our

selection of proven tips, you can narrow down your choices and guarantee

an enjoyable vacation.

Step 1: Choose a location

There are hundreds of cruise location on offer from the Caribbean to

Alaska- there is a place that will strike your eye. Determine where you want

to go first, before deciding on a line to travel by. Most lines are location

specific, so once your location is set, you will be able to narrow your

cruises down quickly.

Step 2: Determine how long you want to cruise

While there are short trips on offer by some cruises that sail for three to five

nights, many liners offer trips that last 10 nights or longer. Occasionally,

trips can last as long as 100 nights for global trips!

Step 3: Set a budget

With so many options to choose from, a budget can help you shimmy into

the right cruise. Mass-market lines offer trips for around $400 per person

for a week while luxury liners can charge $1000 per person per day. Rates

are set per season, and travelling in off peak seasons can reduce your

costs. Inquire about the differences in price between inside cabins and

outward facing cabins- outward facing cabins often have balconies but can

run you a couple hundred additional dollars a week.

Step 4: Check add ons

The upfront fees of a cruise are not the entire cost to your budget.

Passengers will pay a selection of fees and add-ons for specialty meals,

drinks, gratuity and activities. Inquire about these add-on fees before

booking.

Step 5: Determine what you care most about

If you are a foodie and dining is very important to you, take note. If high

quality entertainment is more your speed, make sure you recognize it.

Deciding what you can splurge on and what is less important to you is a

great way to get the most for your vacation money. Families who care

about entertainment will enjoy ships that offer Broadway plays or Disney

characters while foodies will enjoy feasting on the eats from big-name

chefs on another liner.

With these 5 tips, you will be well on your well to choosing the right cruise

for your next vacation!

Bill Lawton

President GeraciTravel.com