Which cruise is best for you?

How do you choose what cruise line and itinerary is best for you? There are literally hundreds of choices out there and it can definitely be overwhelming. As an expert in the travel industry, here are some things I think you should consider.

What time of year do you want to cruise?

While you can cruise during all 12 months of the year, the weather can definitely affect your experience. For example, if you don’t like super hot and humid weather, summer cruising is probably not for you. Hurricane season in the Caribbean is also something to factor in when deciding when to cruise. This technically lasts from June-November, but since it is unpredictable, I personally think it is still okay to schedule travel as long as you realize things could potentially get canceled. This is a great reason to purchase a travel protection plan, which I always recommend. Some sailings also only run certain times of the year, so if you are hoping to sail to Alaska, you will be limited to April-September dates only. Many European and Hawaiian sailings are also limited to certain times of the year, too.

What it really comes down to is: when can you go and where do you want to go? You can probably find something that fits your needs!

How many days do you want to sail?

The first question to ask is how many days are you able to take off for your vacation? Keep in mind if you are flying to the port city, you will want to schedule that flight for the day before your cruise. This is recommended in case of delays because the ship will not wait for you and there is a set time boarding ends. They will not allow you on the ship if you arrive past that time.

If you are a first time cruiser or on a strict budget, you might want to consider a shorter length. Cruises start at 3 days and those sailings will typically only take you to the Bahamas. If you want to see more of the Caribbean or Mexico, or if you are hoping to head to Europe, you will need to take a longer sailing.

What cruise line should you sail?

This is the question I probably get the most often. The answer varies with each client, and this is one reason it helps to work with a vacation planner such as myself. I know what questions to ask to match you with the right option for you!

Disney Cruise Line

Are you a fan of Disney in any way? Even if you aren’t, I honestly still think you would have a great time on Disney Cruise Line. It is my personal favorite line I have sailed, but that shouldn’t surprise you if you know me and my Disney Adult-ness! I don’t think there is a better cruise line for kids, either. The theming, the kids/tween/teen clubs, the food choices, the shows (and as a former music teacher and lover of Broadway musicals, these shows are the best I have seen on a cruise ship)…all top notch in my book, and my daughters, too. They are begging me to go on another cruise ASAP!

Virgin Voyages

Do you want to have an experience away from kids? While there are adult only areas on family cruise ships, the best way to get this experience is on Virgin Voyages! This newer line offers so much for adults (18+) of all ages. There is a misconception this is a line for a younger crowd, but I didn’t think so. We saw all age ranges during our 5 night sailing. While it is a bit less formal of an atmosphere in general, you can make the cruise what you want it to be. We didn’t go to any of the clubs, but we did enjoy the entertainment provided on board. There was live music, trivia, and karaoke every night, as well as game tables and a free arcade.  My only major downfall to this cruise was the number of shows and the reservation system. We did get to see 2 of them, but there just weren’t as many options as other cruise lines. But I ended up being okay with that overall since the hammock on my verandah made up for pretty much everything else. Seriously, that thing was amazing and I want one for my house! The food was also SO good and we never had an issue finding something delicious to eat no matter what time of day it was.

Royal Caribbean International

The next line I usually recommend for clients, especially those with families who don’t want to do a Disney Cruise, is Royal Caribbean. They have a wide variety of ships and sailings, so you can pretty much find something for every budget. Their newest ships are basically large floating cities and the amenities on board are amazing. If you want a smaller, more intimate ship, they have those, too. Just be aware that they are older ships, so you will have a vastly different experience than a mega ship. Shows, experiences, and amenities vary greatly from ship to ship, so if there is something you definitely want to make sure you have, then this is something to think about.

What kind of stateroom should I stay in?

My answer is always a verandah or balcony room. But I do know some people do not mind an interior or oceanview room with a window, and some people want the space that is offered in a suite. You can save a little money by booking an interior or oceanview room, but for me, a verandah is a must. I love watching the water from the comfort of my own room and knowing there is a chair waiting just for me where I can do that. If you don’t see yourself spending much time in your room at all then that should also potentially factor into your decision.

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady in Miami - XL Sea Terrace Verandah

Virgin Voyages XL Sea Terrace Room

Interior Stateroom for 4 on the Enchantment of the Seas

What itinerary is best?

Here are the questions you will want to think about when you are picking an itinerary. If you want a specific cruise ship, your choices will be more limited, but if you are more open, this can help you narrow it down.

What do you want to see? 

Do you want to make sure you hit a different island every day, or are you okay with some days at sea? 

Do you want to see more than one Caribbean island? 

Is there a specific island you want to visit? 

Do you want to cruise in Europe or the Mediterranean?

Do you want a small European river cruise?

What port would you like to embark and disembark from?

Are you ready to cruise? What cruise line and/or destination do you think you would choose?