Cruise ships are teeming with people from all walks of life, and guests have the opportunity to interact with each other--especially at mealtime. Most cruise ships offer assigned seating for dinner. If you stick to the dining table assigned to you throughout the cruise you will have the same dining mates every day. If you don't like your table--or your table mates--your maitre d' will be able to reseat you. Tables for two are available, and some ships have alternate dining rooms at an extra cost.
For the casual diner, most cruise ships offer buffets. Buffets offer a variety of exotic choices as well as traditional fare such as hamburgers, pizza and fries. While a ship's main dining room serves four-star quality food, SmartMoney said that the smaller, reservation-only restaurants onboard offer intimacy as well gourmet food made from quality ingredients. On most cruise ships, coffee, tea, juices and iced tea are complimentary; alcohol and sodas are available for a charge. Vegetarians or those on low-salt or low-cholesterol diets can usually be accommodated on board.
Ships provide daily entertainment, available poolside or in the various theaters and lounges. Musicians, singers and dancers, and comedians keep guests entertained with cabaret-style shows, and many cruise ships have onboard casinos. Your ship's daily newsletter will let you know what's happening and at what time each day.
Depending on your cruise itinerary, you will visit a variety of ports of call. When your ship docks, you might opt to do your own exploring or take part in a shore excursion offered through the ship. As excursions can be pricey, for those on restricted budgets, doing your own thing is an economical option, SmartMoney said. Ship-sponsored excursions usually cost more, but they provide convenience.
Though they are usually comfortable, cabins on cruise ships are typically smaller than standard hotel rooms. Room prices vary, depending on size, amenities and location on the ship. Rooms with balconies, for example, generally will cost more than interior rooms lower on the ship. Standard rooms usually come equipped with twin beds, which can be joined to create larger bed, a television, bathroom and safe. Upgraded suites are usually more spacious and can have extras such as private balconies, DVD players and couches.
