Every day, more and more people are discovering the all-inclusive pleasures of a cruise vacation.
More singles, families, couples, honeymooners, second honeymooners and groups of friends are sailing
away on the vacation of their lives. Last year alone approximately seven million people enjoyed a
cruise vacation.
If you're cruising alone, consider participating in a cruise line's "guaranteed share rate," which is a program that finds you a roommate of the same sex. This will help you avoid paying the "single's supplement."
If you are cruising alone, expect to pay a "single's supplement" that can be anywhere from 10-100% of the per person rate.
One way to reduce the expenses of a longer cruise is to choose a repositioning voyage, which is when a cruise line moves a ship from one region to another between seasons.
You can also save money through early-bird discounts, which are discounts given for advanced booking.
Heavily discounted rates are often available during a destination's off-season. Determine when that off-season is and look for cruises during those months.
If you are crunched for time, book a 3- or 4-day cruise. You'll save some money and still enjoy the experience of a lifetime.
Compare different cruise lines that operate similar itineraries in the geographical region you'd like to cruise.
Compare ship sizes and facilities.
If you are worried about getting seasick, book a cabin in the middle portion of the ship, both vertically and horizontally.
Inside cabins, which do not provide an ocean view, are the least expensive.
Outside cabins have a porthole or a window. More lavish outside cabins may have private balconies.
If you smoke, consider a balcony stateroom where you can smoke outside.
Suites usually provide a separate bedroom, a living area, and a bathroom, and are the most expensive. They may or may not come with a private balcony.
If you're traveling with your partner, make sure that any smaller beds in your cabin can be adjoined. Or request a double bed.
If you have a disability, make sure that the ship can accommodate your needs.
Because of noise problems, avoid booking a cabin near the ship's laundry, generator, galley or clubs.
Many cruise lines describe suites as accommodations that are simply larger cabins with a curtain dividing the sitting and sleeping areas. Before booking a suite, make sure it is what you envision.
If you need to stay wired while onboard, find a cruise ship with an Internet caf? or in-cabin data ports.
An increasing number of cruises offer accommodations for birthdays, anniversaries, business meetings and other special events. If you have reason to celebrate, find out what packaged amenities are available.
Most cruises offer pre- and post-cruise packages that involve accommodations, excursions and transfers. These packages are excellent ways to extend vacations.
Check the demographics of ships carefully, especially if you are traveling alone or with children.
Many cruise lines offer special children's programs and activities. If you have kids, inquire about children's facilities before booking.
If you are a non-smoker and prefer not to be around those who smoke, book a cruise on Carnival's Paradise, the world's first and only completely smoke-free ship.
Remember that 3- and 4-day cruises typically attract younger passengers, as do cruises on weekends and school breaks.
For a more intimate cruise with personalized service, choose a smaller ship that accommodates roughly 500 passengers.
For a good choice of company and more activity, select a medium-size ship with 500-1,000 passengers.
In you crave lots of organized entertainment, high-tech facilities and lots of potential friends, choose a large ship with 1,000-3,000 passengers. These ships are destinations in themselves.
If you seek relaxation, a "port a day" cruise may become exhausting. Choose an itinerary that balances sea days with port days.
