Your personal taste will dictate your choice of cruise line and cruise ship. Each of the cruise lines have established themselves as experts within a specific market and demographics. They have mastered the art of service provision within their respective niches, so keep this in mind as you investigate whether or not cruising is the best travel option for you and for your family, if they will be traveling with you.
There are 15 major cruise lines: Azamara Cruise Lines, Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard Line, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Seabourn Cruises, Silversea Cruises and Windstar.
It is a good idea to visit the Websites of the cruise lines to get a feel for which segment of the market they specialize in, and to compare their offerings to your needs. Your travel agent should also be able to assist you in making the determination about which cruise line is best for you. The cruise lines also have specialists available to guide you through this process.
As you research cruising, there are a number of factors that you need to investigate before proceeding with booking your cruise. Those factors include, but are not limited to: cruise line, ship name and capacity, average number of guests per cruise, cruising policies and procedures (these will be specific to each cruise line), passport information, health and safety information, booking policies, cabin type, size and location, dining options and ports of call.
Cruising offers you the opportunity to visit many exotic location without the hassles of highway traffic and airport layovers. You can get to just about anyplace in the world on a cruise ship.
Cruise destinations vary from cruise line to cruise line. Some common destinations are islands of the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Hawaii, Bermuda or the South Pacific. Cruises are also available to European, African and Mediterranean destinations as well. Select destinations based on your weather preference and your travel goals.
You will need to have travel documents, such as a passport or visa, for your cruise. The cruise lines will be very explicit about what the requirements are. If you are traveling with children, be sure to check on the documents required for them to travel as well. You need to be aware that there is a special set of requirements that apply when purchasing passports for minors age 16 and younger. Once you have confirmed what documents are needed, put them in a safe and secure place -- preferably with your cruise tickets -- until it is time for you to set sail.
