Amazing deals are to be had due to economic conditions, so now is a great time to be planning a cruise. Do you feel a little overwhelmed at all the possibilities and choices available to you? This is definitely understandable, but thanks to the internet, you’ll be well on your way to researching a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

• Tip #1:  Who is all going on the cruise?

Do you want to cruise with a ship that welcomes all ages including babies and toddlers? Would you rather cruise with a ship that caters mainly to adults? Some cruises require that you be 21 years of age.

• Tip #2:  How much do you have to spend?

As a general rule, you can plan on an average of $100.00 a day excluding tipping and airfare. Spring and Fall (often called ’shoulder seasons’) are great times to find “super deals”. Kids are getting into school or just getting out of school. The weather can be another factor since during Spring and Fall the weather is usually more unpredictable.

• Tip #3:  How long can you be gone?

There are cruises for any length of time. A day cruise is called “a cruise to nowhere”. Some cruises last three days to two weeks. Some can last a month or more if you wish to cruise around the world.

• Tip #4:  Do you like to go semi-formal or strictly casual?

Some cruise lines are quite formal and require semi-formal attire for dinner. That means a black suit and tie, or a tux for men. Ladies that would mean a cocktail dress or something equally fancy. If you prefer casual type dining in your jeans then it is best to choose a cruise line that caters to the casual.

• Tip #5:  How much should you pack for your first cruise?

Most cabins are smaller than hotel rooms so pack lightly. Find out how much luggage your cruise line allows. Don’t for get to take an empty bag for souvenirs.

• Tip #6:  What about a travel agent?

Travel agents are totally experienced in the art of “cruising”. For your first experience you may wish to book a cruise through a travel agent.

• Tip #7:  What about shore activities?

Travel agents can provide you with a list of shore activities from the cruise line you have chosen. You can usually book your shore excursions shortly after you sail. If however a certain shore activity is a real priority try to book your space in advance.

• Tip #8:  What kind of cabin should I get?

Ask your travel agent or go online as most cruise ships will have pictures of various cabins in which to choose from. Some cabins are interior cabins, some have balconies and others have windows (which are larger than portholes). The prices may vary greatly depending upon which cabin you choose.

• Tip #9:  Do you have any overnight needs before your cruise departs?

To avoid stressing out you may wisely choose to get to the departure city a day in advance. If you are using a travel agent, the agent could also book your night stay and transportation.

• Tip #10:  Do you want to go on shore excursions?

Don’t forget to take your ID and your passport if you wish to go ashore in other countries. It is a good idea just to take it along anyway.

• Tip # 11:  Don’t for get to take “tipping money”.

Policies on tipping will vary from cruise line to cruise line. Check out what the policy is on the cruise ship you are taking. You would not like to be unprepared. The average tipping cost to plan on is around $150.00 to $175.00 a week.

It is a good idea to plan to be on board the ship for at least 45 minutes before the ship is scheduled to set sail, if not earlier.

When checking out cruise lines you may want to keep in mind the size of ship you want to cruise on. A large cruise ship will carry 1,500 or more passengers. A Middle sized ship can carry from 200 to 1,500 passengers. A small ship will carry less than 200 passengers. Have an enjoyable time as you continue your search for selecting your first cruise!