When it comes time to choose a cruise, it's important to clearly define your expectations and desired experience by asking yourself the right questions. What kind of cruise do you want? An active cruise, offering a multitude of activities on board and the chance to visit as many places as possible? A relaxing cruise, allowing you to stroll around the ship without set meal times? Or an uncompromising cruise, where the service is luxurious?
What destinations would you like to visit on your next cruise? The Caribbean, Europe, Asia? Also, find out about the different excursions available during your cruise. These are a convenient way to explore the various ports of call, either independently or with a guide.
Are your travel dates fixed or flexible? Depending on your answer, you will be able to view the different cruises offered. Would you like to take a longer voyage of more than 10 days to take the time to discover far-off places, or would you prefer a 7-day cruise to enjoy a relaxing vacation in the sun?
Here's a step you shouldn't overlook. It's important to check the ship's departure time so you can choose your flight accordingly. Arriving the day before is highly recommended, in case of unforeseen circumstances or flight delays. By investing in a hotel room for the night, you'll travel with peace of mind.
At this stage, you will have the opportunity to choose between the flight offered by the cruise line and another flight. How do you know which to choose? It all depends on you. The flight offered by the cruise line is almost always more expensive because it includes the guarantee that it will get you to the cruise.
Once you arrive at your destination, you will likely need a connecting flight (transportation between the airport and the ship or between the hotel and the port). You can book your connection in advance, i.e., when making your reservation, or you can use a taxi upon arrival. Connections are often economical because the preferred modes of transport are designed to accommodate several passengers at once (buses or minibuses). It's worth shopping around for options.
There are several cabin options available on board the ships. Here's an overview to help you get a clearer picture!
The inside cabin is the most economical option and allows you to sleep in complete darkness. It offers excellent value for money if an outside view isn't a priority for you.
The outside cabin has a window that allows you to see outside, but it doesn't open. Regarding which deck to choose, keep in mind that the higher you are, the more you'll feel the ship's rolling; however, the view is better from a higher deck. And of course, the higher the deck, the higher the cabin price.
The balcony cabin offers cruise passengers more privacy. It boasts a beautiful view, perfect if you enjoy having breakfast on the balcony or savoring a cigar in peace...
Finally, you can also choose between an assigned cabin or a guaranteed cabin. When you choose an assigned cabin, you are permanently assigned a cabin, which is reserved for you (as the name suggests). You then choose the cabin you will occupy during your cruise.
When you choose a guaranteed cabin, you agree to a specific cabin category (there are several cabins of the same category on a ship). You'll have the chance of being upgraded at no extra cost, but you also risk ending up in a cabin you didn't choose. Of course, guaranteed cabins are more economical than assigned cabins.
Cruises don't all operate the same way when it comes to meal service. Some ships offer the flexibility to eat in the restaurants of your choice at a time that suits you, while others have scheduled meals. In the latter case, you have two choices to make: the time of your meal, either the first or second seating (usually at 6:00 PM or 8:30 PM), and the type of table you want (a table for 2, 4, or 8 people).
Remember that once you arrive, if you change your mind, you can make changes with the dining room manager, subject to availability. Also note that some ships have à la carte restaurants (at an extra cost) which you will need to reserve on board, if that appeals to you.
Some cruise lines offer a menu adapted for passengers with specific dietary requirements, intolerances, or allergies. These requests must be noted in your booking and communicated to the service staff once on board.
Most cruise lines now offer packages that include drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). The cost is approximately $50, depending on the ship.
On most ships, casual attire is acceptable throughout the day. In the evening, a more formal dress code is often required in the dining areas. Check with the cruise line you are traveling with.
Each cruise line makes several crew members available to ensure you receive personalized service. Gratuities are a way to show your appreciation. You can prepay gratuities when you make your reservation or distribute them once you're on board (even at the end of your cruise). Some people prefer to tip the crew members directly. It's entirely up to you, and you don't have to decide how to do it right away. You can always change your mind later.
Check-in is a step that will simplify your journey when you board the ship. By providing all your cruise information in advance, you'll be ready to embark more quickly. You can register online and check in from 5 to 45 days before your departure by visiting the cruise line's website and using your booking number.
Most ships begin boarding around noon. However, your cabin may not be ready at that time. Check-in at the dock takes place between 60 and 120 minutes before departure. Disembarkation is staggered over several hours to avoid congestion. Priority disembarkation is also available; simply inquire for details.
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