Have you always thought about taking a cruise holiday, but haven’t known where to begin with regards to picking the right cruise company, the correct shop, what to pack and where to go? Well, this mini guide aims to help you know how to make these decisions and to ensure that your cruise dreams become a reality!

The Correct Cruise Line

All cruise companies are different. Each have different markets, features, styles, attractions and types of passenger. Talk to travel agents, friends who have previously cruised, and browse plenty of websites like Cruise Critic to ensure you pick a cruise line that suits you and your preferred style of travel.

There’s no point ending up on a cruise that is predominantly for older couples if you’re a young family and doing plenty of research should ensure this doesn’t happen.

Cruise Critic

The Right Cruise Ship

Do you want to be on one of the largest, most modern ships in the world, or would you prefer something smaller and more intimate, with less focus on the extra bells and whistles your ship can offer. If you don’t want to be on a ship full of children for example, there are plenty of adult only ships to choose from.

All the information you could need about a certain ship is out there on the internet, all you have to do is read it and weigh up the pros and cons of different ships for your needs.

Oasis of the Seas

Cruise Location

This one is the easiest decision of all. If you’re a fan of culture, history and delicious food then you’ll probably be at home within the Mediterranean than on the beaches of the Caribbean. If you like to explore, then somewhere like Alaska or the Norwegian Fjords would be perfect.

List the things you like to do on a normal holiday and find a cruise itinerary that will take you to places where you can do those activities.

Alaska

What to Pack

This is always a tricky one for first time cruisers. Make sure you know what the dress code for your specific cruise company is. For example, find out if there will be formal nights on board, or if smart casual if the norm.

On most cruise ships daytime wear is normal holiday resort wear, such as casual sun dresses for ladies and shorts for gentlemen.

Afternoon Tea

If you know these details then you can pack accordingly. Other than that, be sure to take sunscreen, light layers to be ready for every weather eventuality, sunglasses and a camera to capture all of your exciting cruise memories!

Thanks Emma