Book your room according to your budget needs. Lower priced rooms are usually without windows and views. Higher priced rooms offer ocean views and some include private balconies.
Select the best package for your cruise based on number of nights. Know that your nightly rates are calculated by the length of your stay and seasonal peaks. Changing your length of stay may let you upgrade your room easily.
Decide if an upgrade is right for you. It's usually fairly easy to upgrade your room, and sometimes a cruise line might make an offer to lock you in at a better rate.
Know that airfare is usually excluded from your cruise package, unless indicated otherwise by your travel agent or booking service.
Confirm that your meals at breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all-inclusive. Find out the details during your initial cruise booking process.
Find out if there is a scheduled dining policy. The standard is an open-all-day buffet style setting that covers basic beverages, snacks, and sometimes room service.
Learn whether you need to buy a separate Beverage Package; this will allow unlimited beer, wine, soda, and liquor packages that are generally not included with standard cruises.
Know that fine dining beyond the all-day buffet and room service will be at additional cost. These onboard restaurants are generally more up-scale and may require a reservation.
Review your cruise line's list of onboard activities. This can include everything the cruise line offers such as poolside activities, dancing and evening entertainment. Obtain this list from the cruise line's Web site or your travel agent.
Determine if you need to pick up any complimentary tickets for featured events. Sometimes these are simply RSVP-required, at no additional cost.
Find out where to watch movies, take part in gym classes, and access the pool or hot tub. All of these activities are usually included.
Look for family-oriented events including magic shows, live music and even cartoon character endorsements.
Know that spa treatments or services at the salon are generally not included. Be sure to tip for these specific services and expect to pay a little extra.
Consider that if you like to snorkel, scuba-dive, or jet ski, these water sports will generally be at an additional cost.
Determine what cruise-sponsored events off the ship are covered by your cruise package. Ask ahead of time about each event you are interested in on shore.
Take part in onboard lectures about other vacations and destinations. These are usually sponsored by the cruise line and offered free of charge.
Know that sight-seeing and tours on shore are usually at an additional cost as they are considered extra travel options.
Know that many cruise lines offer lavish amenities including free turndown service, fresh flowers each day, and fruit delivery in the morning.
Know that in-room dining is usually offered at no additional cost if you choose not to visit the all-day buffet.
Know that Internet access is usually not included, and you will be charged by the minute either in your cabin, or in the ship's internet café.
Know that office suite services, including fax, phone, and computer use charges will be additional (unless you are on a business package).
Remember that gratuities are always extra, and it is recommended to pay a minimum of $3 per day to each of your service providers.
