🚢 All about cruises: a complete guide for beginners
Sailing on ships that resemble all-inclusive floating resorts or intimate boutique hotels has turned the traditional image of the cruiser on its head. Going on a cruise is no longer the preserve of famous newlyweds and seniors. Now they are gaining popularity among young couples and groups of friends, families, solo travelers and fitness enthusiasts of all ages.
The variety of ships and the list of places to visit are extremely large. But these choices can be confusing. Especially those who have never set foot on a cruise ship and don't know where to start. We'll help you figure it out.
Which direction to choose?
When it comes to choosing a cruise, the Caribbean comes out on top. It is the most popular cruising region in the world thanks to its combination of tropical seas and hidden islands.
Almost all cruise lines sail here, offering itineraries that include Barbados, St. Lucia, Jamaica and Mexico, as well as hidden spots in the Grenadines and the British Virgin Islands.
The Mediterranean Sea is the second most popular destination. The main season in the region lasts from spring to autumn. Here you will experience the diversity of countries, histories and cultures surrounding this stretch of sea. The most popular ports are Naples, Athens and Dubrovnik.
Northern Europe, including Scandinavian cities, the Norwegian fjords and the Baltics, has become increasingly popular in the last decade, as has sailing around the UK.
North America is also full of natural attractions, especially Alaska. South and Central America cruises take you to vibrant cities including Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, while Asian cruises typically include Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City.
In winter, the Middle East comes into its own, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, as well as the Canary Islands. By the way, right now Tiqets.com has opened early bookings for a November cruise on the Persian Gulf, during which travelers will visit Abu Dhabi (UAE), Dubai (UAE), Sir Bani Yas (UAE) and Doha (Qatar). The cost of such a trip varies from 638 to 858 euros, depending on the cabin class.
- The most beautiful port cities in Europe and Asia
- Holidays for the elderly: cruise ship, bus tour, foreign resorts
Which cabin should you choose?
Cruise ships can have up to 40 types of cabins, but don't let that fool you – there are only four main categories. If you need a “place to sleep,” choose an “inside cabin.” They have all the amenities you need, but don't have a window or porthole, so they're ideal if you don't plan to spend a lot of time in them.
The next category is “external cabins”. They have a large window or even a balcony or terrace.
The best, but also most expensive, choice of cabins are the “suites,” ranging from mini-suites with a sitting area to sprawling enclaves with multiple bedrooms, butler service and private plunge pools on the outdoor deck.
The location of the cabin is another thing to worry about if you don't want to be under a noisy pool deck or next to a nightclub. Those who are concerned about seasickness should choose a cabin midship on the lower deck – there will be less “pumping” there.
What's included and what costs extra?
Cruises are known for their competitive prices. This is because meals, activities, and on-deck entertainment including theater performances, cabarets and live bands are included in the price of the package. To this should also be added, as a rule, gyms and sports facilities, swimming pools and hot tubs, as well as children's clubs.
The more expensive and prestigious the cruise, the more drink offerings, signature dishes or even shore excursions are included in the price.
However, on major lines, passengers may have to fork out for drinks, specialty restaurants, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and spa treatments. You'll also likely have to shell out cash for private VIP decks and some special one-off attractions.
How does the landing take place?
It's a busy day as passengers leave the ship and new guests arrive. The latter are given some time to arrive at the port and settle in. Their luggage is collected by porters. They load the suitcases onto the ship and deliver them to the cabin door a few hours later.
You should make sure in advance that you have everything you need in your hand luggage, for example, medicines and swimsuits. Once on board, you can get acquainted with the ship, book excursions, spa treatments or a table in a restaurant.
What is the difference between sea days and port days?
Sea days are when there are no port calls. Then you get the idea of what an ocean cruise is all about. The decks can get crowded as these days have a packed program of events including live music and activities.
Port days are when the ship arrives at the port. This is the time when passengers can go ashore, go on shore excursions or explore the city on their own. If that doesn't appeal, you can find a better spot by the pool or take advantage of special offers at the spa.
What to do on board?
The larger the ship, the better the choice of entertainment, from water parks and climbing walls to miniature golf courses and extensive gyms. As a rule, passengers are provided with information about all possible activities.
On port days, activity mainly occurs in the evening. Then the ships come to life with stage shows, live music, comedy shows and discos.
How are the excursions?
If you choose a shore excursion, then remember the main thing – you can’t be late for the ship. Especially if you decide to explore the port city on your own.
Otherwise, cruise lines offer a wide range of full-day and half-day excursions. They can be booked online before your cruise or while sailing. But the price tag can sting.
There are also alternative options. For example, buy a sightseeing tour from a local company or ask a taxi at the port to show you the city. It all depends on how much you are willing to take risks.
Will I need to change clothes?
The days of ladies in dresses and men in tails are over. Nowadays life on board is much more relaxed. However, check with your cruise line about the dress code before departure. Some “formal” evenings may require an evening dress.
Passengers can choose shared tables if they wish. There is now much more emphasis on ensuring that guests dine with whom and when they like. However, some ships still offer fixed dining tables.
Will everyone be elderly?
The days of retirement cruises are long gone. However, everything depends on the areas of work of travel companies. Some target a more mature audience, while others target young families, groups of friends and couples.
Should you worry about seasickness?
Modern ships have stabilizers. These are fins that extend from each side of the ship to reduce rocking. However, if you are worried about seasickness and really want to go on a cruise, then choose a cabin in the middle of the ship.
There are also various medications, such as tablets or patches. However, we recommend that you do not do it on your own and consult a doctor. If seasickness was not suspected and it came on suddenly, then you can contact the ship’s doctor.
If you really want to go on a cruise, but you can’t even set foot on a ship without nausea, then it’s better to try a river cruise.
What happens if I get sick?
All ships have a medical clinic and doctors. They can dispense medications and solve serious problems. However, there are indeed times when it may be necessary to disembark or evacuate guests by helicopter. Unfortunately, no one is immune from this. Please note that travel insurance is required. It can be arranged through the cruise line or independently.
Are there safety drills?
Drills are an important task on landing day. Passengers are introduced to the procedures to follow in case of an emergency. Some lines organize mandatory in-person training. While others require guests to watch a safety video on their in-cabin TV before coming to the gathering spot.
Will there be internet access?
All ships offer internet access, although download speeds may vary. However, the main lines are in the process of installing Elon Musk's SpaceX Starlink broadband satellite system. Onboard Wi-Fi can be expensive. Some cruise lines include it in special offers or the total price of the cruise.
How to pay for purchases on board?
Each cruise line has its own payment system. Passengers make payments using their number cards. They go to your cabin account, which is paid at the end of the cruise. Onboard currencies vary depending on the cruise line, but the main three currencies are the dollar, pounds and euros.
Do you need a tip?
It all depends on the cruise line. For example, US companies tend to charge higher fees. A tip is usually added to each guest's bill as a daily fee per person, usually around $16 per day. However, a growing number of lines are including gratuities in the cruise price or offering value-added packages. Some cruise lines add a service charge of 18-20% to bar and spa bills.