What decisions do I have to make when I book a cruise?
Before you contact a travel agent or book a cruise on line, there are (at least) ten questions you must be prepared to answer. Sit down with your traveling companions and answer these questions, and you'll look more like an experienced cruiser than a first timer!
How do I select a good travel agent?
The Internet has provided all of us travelers with lots of good information to help us plan our cruise. However, often times a travel agent can add value to your cruise planning process. Here are some things to look for in a travel agent.
How do I start planning a cruise?
I am planning a cruise to ______________ (insert destination) on __________. (insert date traveling). Can you tell me what is available?
Most major cruise lines have Web sites that include itineraries for all of their ships.
Link to cruise lines.
What kind of clothes are appropriate for a cruise?
Does my husband need a tux? You can find a cruise to match any type of dress you prefer. Many cruise lines have gone to country club casual for most nights on the cruise.
How do we get married (or renew our vows) on a cruise? Cruise weddings are growing in popularity. For a few tips on planning your big day, check this page on planning a wedding at sea.
How much should I tip on a cruise?
Here's a link to a handy calculator from Theron that allows cruisers to determine the amount to tip.
My spouse (or significant other) hates to fly, and we want to cruise. Are there things we can do to make the trip less stressful?
Flying with a Fearful Flyer.
What kinds of things can I do to help stay safe while on vacation? Don't become a cruise crime statistic.
I'd like to cruise the Hawaiian Islands. What ships are based in Hawaii and what are they like? Where can I get info on cruising to Hawaii?
We're going on a cruise to Greece and Turkey. When should I sign up for the ship's shore excursion and when should I tour on my own? About Greece Guide deTraci Regula explains how to tell the difference between those that are worth your time and money, and those that are high-priced yawners.
We're planning a cruise to the Caribbean. How can I get some information to help me plan my cruse?
Links to Caribbean ports of call.
I'd like to take a trip on a freighter or cargo ship. What are the pros and cons of sailing on a non-traditional ship like one of these? About Budget Travel guide Mark Kahler discusses these issues. Pros and Cons of Sailing on a Freighter.
How can I get a job with a cruise line?
I'm not a travel agent, and I don't work for any of the cruise lines. However, I have written a two-part article that will (1) tell you some pros and cons of working on a cruise ship, (2) give you some tips for preparing your application and meeting the requirements of the cruise ships.
Finding a Job in the Cruise Industry - Part 1
Finding a Job in the Cruise Industry - Part 2
In addition, I have collected a list of links that will help you get started in finding that cruise job you've dreamed of. Note that some of these sites charge a fee for materials or information, and none can "guarantee" you a job.
List of links for cruise jobs
You need to do your own research to determine if these sites will help you find a job. Most of the cruise lines also have information for job seekers. You might send a letter of inquiry to the address at the cruise line site.
List of links to cruise lines
