Pick a date to travel, a location and a cruise line. Many cruise lines visit the same places and have similar itineraries, but depending on where you want to cruise -- the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Europe, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, or one of the other countries cruise ships visit -- your choice is limited by the departure port you choose.
Visit the cruise line's website and choose the cruise you want to take. Pick your departure port, ports of call, travel dates and your stateroom. You get to choose from interior, ocean view, balcony and suites on most cruise ships. The major difference in each room is self-explanatory; size and amenities also differ. Suites generally come with personal concierges.
Add to your cruise the price of your tips and gratuities, so they will already be paid when you board your ship -- this is optional. Select your payment method. Most cruise lines allow you to pay for your cruise in full, or in payments. If you choose to make payments, you will need to pay a deposit, which differs based on the cruise line and type of cruise you are taking.
Add shore excursions and other personal touches to your cruise vacation. Choose your seating time for dinner. Book shore excursions, special gifts for your stateroom and spa treatments, as you choose.
Make changes to, or customize your cruise vacation at any time, by visiting your cruise line's website.
