Set Sail Like a Pro: Cruise Planning Made Easy
- Fiona Cook
- Mar 7
- 15 min read
Cruising is one of the best ways to travel—unpack once, wake up in a new destination every day, and have all the entertainment, food, and relaxation you could ever want right at your fingertips. But with so many cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to choose from, planning can feel like a voyage in itself. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with this guide to picking the perfect cruise, selecting your cabin, and making the most of your onboard and onshore experiences.
Choosing the Right Cruise
First things first: What kind of cruiser are you? Do you dream of sipping piña coladas on a Caribbean beach, hiking glaciers in Alaska, or experiencing the culture of Europe, one historic city at a time? The destination will set the tone for your adventure.
But it's not just about where you go—it’s also about how much time you want to spend at sea versus in port. Some cruises are designed as floating resorts, with plenty of sea days to relax and enjoy onboard amenities. Others operate more like a luxury train on water, taking you efficiently from one exciting destination to the next.
Sea Days vs. Port Days: What’s Your Ideal Balance?
More Sea Days: Ideal if you want a resort-style experience with plenty of time to enjoy the ship’s pools, spas, shows, and dining. Transatlantic crossings, world cruises, and some Pacific itineraries often have more days at sea, making them perfect for relaxation and onboard entertainment.
More Port Days: Best for those who see the ship as a mode of transport rather than the main attraction. If you love exploring multiple destinations and spending more time ashore, look for itineraries that minimize sea days—like Mediterranean cruises, which often have a new port every day.
A Balanced Mix: Many mainstream cruises (like Caribbean or Alaska itineraries) offer a combination, with sea days bookending busy port stops, allowing time for both adventure and relaxation.
Destination Matters
Caribbean
☀️ Sunshine, cocktails, and stunning beaches—ideal for those who want a mix of relaxation and fun. With multiple island stops, you can enjoy white-sand beaches in the Bahamas, vibrant nightlife in Jamaica, and world-class snorkeling in the Cayman Islands. Perfect for first-time cruisers or those looking for an easy, tropical getaway.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Typically a balanced mix, with 1-2 sea days depending on the length of the cruise.
Alaska
❄️ Think towering glaciers, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking scenery (plus, let’s be honest, an excuse to wear all those cozy jackets). Cruises here offer a mix of adventure and relaxation, with whale watching, glacier trekking, and scenic train rides through the rugged Alaskan landscape. Best for nature lovers and those seeking a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Usually port-heavy, with scenic cruising through fjords and glaciers.
Mediterranean (Southern Europe)
🏛️ A floating history and food tour! Mediterranean cruises take you to destinations like Italy, Greece, and Spain, where you can wander through ancient ruins, indulge in world-class cuisine, and soak up the coastal beauty. Ideal for culture seekers, food lovers, and history buffs.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Port-heavy, often stopping in a new city every day.
Northern Europe & The Baltics
🏰 Fjords, castles, and stunning Nordic scenery. Cruises through Scandinavia and the Baltics take you to destinations like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Estonia, with breathtaking fjords, medieval old towns, and vibrant modern cities. A great option for those who love a mix of history, nature, and cooler weather.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Some itineraries are port-intensive, but fjord cruises may include scenic sea days.
South America
🌎 From the Amazon to Antarctica, South America offers some of the most diverse cruise experiences. Explore the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, marvel at the glaciers of Patagonia, or cruise down the Amazon River for an unforgettable wildlife adventure. Perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Varies widely. Antarctic and Amazon cruises are more sea-intensive, while South American coastal itineraries include frequent port stops.
Asia & The Pacific
🌴 Whether it’s the stunning beaches of Thailand, the bustling streets of Tokyo, or the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, cruising in Asia and the Pacific gives you a taste of the best this diverse region has to offer. Great for travelers who want a mix of cultural experiences, nature, and city life.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Long-haul Pacific cruises have more sea days, while coastal Asia cruises are more port-heavy.
Transatlantic & World Cruises
🚢 If you have time and a sense of adventure, a transatlantic or world cruise can take you across multiple continents in one journey. These longer voyages often include stops in Europe, Africa, the Americas, and beyond. Best for experienced cruisers or those looking for the ultimate bucket list trip.
🛳 Sea Days vs. Port Days: Expect long stretches of sea days, particularly on transatlantic and Pacific crossings.
How Long Do You Want to Be at Sea?
The length of your cruise plays a big role in shaping your experience. Here’s a breakdown of common cruise durations and what to expect:
Weekend Getaway (2-4 Days)
⏳ Great for a quick escape or testing the waters if you’re new to cruising. These short trips often visit one or two nearby ports and focus on the onboard experience, making them perfect for a long weekend away.
One to Two Weeks
🌍 The sweet spot for many, allowing enough time to explore multiple destinations without going full castaway. This range covers everything from Caribbean and Alaska cruises to Mediterranean and Northern Europe itineraries.
Extended Voyages (3+ Weeks)
🗺️ Ideal for retirees, digital nomads, or those who just really love buffets. These cruises offer a deep dive into multiple regions and often include repositioning cruises, world cruises, and exotic itineraries to places like the South Pacific, Asia, and South America.
Choosing the Right Cruise Line
With so many incredible cruise lines setting sail across the globe, finding the one that matches your travel style can feel overwhelming. Whether you're dreaming of an unforgettable family getaway, a lavish luxury retreat, or an adventurous expedition to the world's most breathtaking destinations, there's a cruise line designed just for you. Or why not try them all?
🌟 Family-Friendly Fun
If you're traveling with kids (or kids at heart!), these cruise lines are packed with excitement, interactive experiences, and endless entertainment:
Disney Cruise Line – The ultimate family adventure, where magic meets the sea! Enjoy spectacular character meet-and-greets, whimsically themed dining, and award-winning kids’ clubs that will keep little ones entertained for hours.
Royal Caribbean – An absolute paradise for thrill-seekers, with soaring waterslides, exhilarating surf simulators, and dazzling Broadway-style performances that the whole family will love.
Carnival – A vibrant, budget-friendly choice brimming with casual fun, unlimited soft-serve ice cream, and an abundance of activities for cruisers of all ages.
💎 Luxury & Romance
For those seeking an indulgent, stress-free escape, these cruise lines provide elegant experiences and impeccable service:
Viking Ocean Cruises – A serene, adults-only haven offering all-inclusive luxury with a rich cultural focus, ideal for sophisticated travelers who crave enrichment and relaxation.
Seabourn – Exuding ultra-luxurious elegance, this cruise line features lavishly spacious suites, personalized service, and exquisite gourmet dining.
Regent Seven Seas – A truly all-inclusive, high-end experience where opulent accommodations, world-class dining, and indulgent shore excursions redefine luxury cruising.
🎉 Party & Nightlife
If you’re looking for non-stop fun, electrifying nightlife, and an upbeat, social atmosphere, these cruise lines bring the party to the high seas:
Norwegian Cruise Line – Perfect for night owls and party lovers, with dazzling themed parties, chic bars, and a carefree freestyle cruising experience.
Virgin Voyages – A bold, adults-only cruise line featuring a trendy, modern vibe with wildly unique entertainment, immersive nightlife, and no shortage of fun.
🌍 Adventure & Expedition
For those who crave thrilling exploration, rugged landscapes, and up-close wildlife encounters, these expedition cruises offer unparalleled adventure:
Hurtigruten – A nature-focused expedition line emphasizing sustainability, polar explorations, and breathtaking scenic voyages.
Lindblad Expeditions – Partnered with National Geographic, this cruise line offers expertly guided, in-depth exploration of some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth.
✨ Modern Luxury
Sleek, stylish, and designed for travelers who appreciate contemporary elegance, these cruises blend sophistication with innovation:
Celebrity Cruises – A chic, upscale experience with stunningly modern décor, innovative dining concepts, and a refined onboard ambiance.
⚓ Classic Cruising Experience
For those who love traditional cruising with a touch of elegance and charm, these cruise lines offer timeless sophistication and enriching experiences:
Princess Cruises – A perfect blend of classic luxury and modern comfort, featuring elegantly designed ships, top-tier service, and destination-focused itineraries. Oh, and The Love Boat Theme!
Holland America Line – Known for its refined ambiance, exceptional enrichment programs, and fine dining, this line offers a truly timeless cruising experience.
🚢 Picking the Perfect Room
Your cabin is your home at sea, so choosing wisely is key. Whether you're cruising on a budget, craving ocean views, or indulging in a luxury suite, your room choice can make a big difference in your overall experience. Here's a breakdown of the main options, plus some expert tips to ensure smooth sailing.
🛏️ Inside Cabin – Best for Budget Travelers
💰 Budget-friendly and great for those who plan to be out exploring the ship rather than lounging in their room. These cabins are cozy (read: compact) and lack windows, which means no natural light—ideal if you love sleeping in total darkness but potentially disorienting if you rely on sunlight to wake up.
🔹 Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, solo cruisers, or those who just need a place to crash.
🔹 Keep in mind: Some newer ships offer "virtual balconies" (screens displaying a live ocean view). If
you're claustrophobic, you may want to consider an oceanview cabin instead.
🌊 Oceanview Cabin – A Window to the World
These rooms feature a window or porthole, letting in natural light and giving you at least a glimpse of the sea. While you can't open the window, it's still a great option if you want to feel more connected to the ocean without splurging on a balcony.
🔹 Best for: Cruisers who prefer natural light but don’t need outdoor space.
🔹 Keep in mind: Some oceanview cabins have obstructed views (lifeboats or structural elements blocking part of the window). Always check the deck plan before booking.
🛳️ Balcony Cabin – Your Private Oasis
The gold standard for many cruisers! A balcony cabin gives you a private outdoor space, perfect for sipping morning coffee, sunbathing in peace, or dramatically staring at the horizon while contemplating life.
🔹 Best for: Couples, nature lovers, and those who want to enjoy the sea breeze from their own space.
🔹 Keep in mind: Balconies vary in size—some are cozy, while others are spacious enough for loungers. Aft-facing (rear) balconies often offer stunning wake views, but they may also be windy.
👑 Suite – The Ultimate in Luxury
If you like the finer things in life, a suite offers extra space, high-end perks, and even personal butler service on some cruise lines. Expect a separate living area, larger balcony, priority boarding, and exclusive dining/lounge access.
🔹 Best for: Luxury seekers, families needing extra space, and anyone celebrating a special occasion.
🔹 Keep in mind: Suites book up fast, and they come with a premium price tag—but the VIP treatment can be well worth it.
🚢 Pro Tips for Choosing the Best Cabin
✅ Prone to seasickness? Book mid-ship on a lower deck where movement is less noticeable. Avoid cabins at the very front (bow) or very back (stern), as they feel more motion.
✅ Noise-sensitive? Stay away from cabins above/below nightclubs, theaters, or engine rooms. Mid-ship and higher-deck cabins tend to be quieter.
✅ Love convenience? Look for a cabin near elevators but not right next to them (less walking, but without hallway noise).
✅ Traveling with a group? Consider connecting cabins or family suites for extra space.
Extras: Dining, Drinks, and Wi-Fi
While your cruise fare covers way more than you might expect, there are a few extras you may want to consider. Some are worth the splurge, while others depend on your travel style. Let’s break it down.
🍽️ Dining: Do You Need to Splurge?
One of the biggest cruise misconceptions is that you must pay extra for great food. Not true! The included dining on most cruise lines is seriously impressive—we're talking multi-course meals, all-you-can-eat buffets, and around-the-clock pizza, burgers, and dessert stations. Whether you're dining in the main restaurant or grabbing a late-night snack, you'll never go hungry.
That said, if you're a self-proclaimed foodie, specialty dining venues can offer gourmet experiences, from teppanyaki and steakhouses to sushi bars and French bistros. Some cruisers swear by these extra-charge restaurants, but if you're happy with steak and lobster in the main dining room (which is often included!), there's no need to spend extra.
🔹 Best for: Foodies looking for a unique dining experience.
🔹 Skip it if: You’re happy with the (already amazing) included food options.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you’re curious but don’t want to break the bank, check for discounted lunch specials at specialty restaurants or bundled dining packages for multiple nights.
💡EXTRA Tip: The Stair Challenge
With all the amazing food onboard, it’s easy to indulge (because, let’s be real, when else can you have midnight pizza and soft-serve ice cream on tap?). That’s why we always do the Stair Challenge on every cruise—avoiding elevators and taking the stairs everywhere.
In fact, we’ve only stepped inside a cruise ship elevator once—when we had to carefully balance platters of buffet food to bring down 10 floors to the lounge, where we could enjoy a rugby game in comfort. Priorities, right?
Taking the stairs not only helps burn off the unlimited desserts, but it also means you’ll get places faster (elevators on ships can be painfully slow!). Give it a try—you’ll be surprised how much of a workout you get without even hitting the gym.
🍹 Drink Packages: Worth It or Not?
Cruise drink packages can be a huge money-saver—or a total waste, depending on your habits. Most cruise lines offer packages that include unlimited cocktails, wine, beer, specialty coffees, fresh juices, and sodas. But before you sign up, do the math:
If a drink package costs $80 per day, and cocktails are $10 each, you’d need to drink 8 cocktails daily to break even. Can you do that? Should you do that? (No judgment here.)
If you’re just an occasional drinker, it might be cheaper to pay as you go.
Some cruise lines also allow you to bring a bottle of wine per person, which is a great way to enjoy a glass without racking up a bill.
🔹 Best for: Those who drink multiple alcoholic or specialty drinks daily.
🔹 Skip it if: You prefer a couple of drinks here and there—your wallet will thank you.
🔹 Pro Tip #1: Many bars offer happy hour specials, and some loyalty programs include free drinks after a few cruises.
🔹 Pro Tip #2: If you choose not to get the drink package but don’t want a nasty surprise at the end of your cruise, consider adding money in installments to your onboard account before or during your trip. This way, you can pre-pay for your drinks in advance, so there’s no big bill waiting for you on disembarkation day.
📶 Wi-Fi: Do You Really Need to Stay Connected?
Cruise Wi-Fi is notoriously slow and expensive, but it’s improving. If you absolutely must stay connected, you can buy a package, but be prepared for lagging Zoom calls and pixelated video chats.
On the flip side, cruising is the perfect excuse for a digital detox. The ocean is beautiful, the drinks are cold, and do you really need to check your emails while floating through the Pacific?
🔹 Best for: Remote workers, social media addicts, or anyone who needs to stay in touch.
🔹 Skip it if: You’re happy to unplug and embrace cruise life.
🔹 Pro Tip: Some ports offer free Wi-Fi at coffee shops if you just need a quick check-in. Also, many cruise lines let you use their app for free messaging onboard without needing a full Wi-Fi package.
Excursions: Plan Ahead or Wing It?
One of the best parts of cruising is exploring amazing destinations along the way. Whether you’re snorkeling in the Bahamas, wandering through ancient ruins in Greece, or dog sledding in Alaska, here’s how to get the most out of your shore days.
🎟️ Book Early—The Best Tours Sell Out Fast
If there’s an absolute must-do experience on your itinerary, book it early. Cruise lines limit spots on popular excursions, so don’t assume you can just walk on. Think swimming with pigs in the Bahamas, helicopter rides over glaciers, or seeing the Northern Lights—these experiences fill up fast.
🌍 Independent Tours: Great Value, But Know the Risks
Booking directly with a local tour operator or through platforms like Get Your Guide can often save you money and provide smaller group experiences. Many local guides offer identical or even better tours than the cruise line at a fraction of the cost.
However, there’s a catch—if your independently booked tour runs late and you miss the all-aboard time, the ship will not wait for you. Cruise-line excursions, on the other hand, come with a guarantee—if there’s a delay, the ship will wait.
Do you really want to star in the next YouTube episode of "Wharf Runners"—videos where people sprint down the dock, desperately waving as their cruise ship sails away?
If you book an independent excursion, weigh the risks:
✅ Short and local? A couple of hours nearby? Probably fine.
⚠️ Full-day trip to the Amalfi Coast from Naples? You might want to rethink it—or at least pad in plenty of extra time to get back.
Real Story: When we took a cruise-line tour in Istanbul, we got stuck on the wrong side of the city when some genius decided to park their car in the middle of a major street—blocking all the tour buses. We were trapped for over an hour while they tried to track down the owner. Luckily, since it was an official cruise-line tour, the ship waited (even though we still made it back in time). Had it been an independent tour? Well… that might have been a different story.
🏙️ DIY Exploration: Sometimes, You Don’t Need a Tour
Not every port requires an expensive tour. Some cities are best explored on foot, at your own pace, with Google Maps and a good pair of shoes.
Great DIY-friendly ports:
🏛️ Barcelona: Walk La Rambla, explore the Gothic Quarter, or take the metro to Sagrada Familia.
⛵ Santorini: Take the cable car up to Fira, wander through the blue-domed villages, and enjoy a seaside lunch.
🏝️ Noumea: Take the Hop-on Hop Off bus around the main beaches and tourist attractions.
Final Tips for a Smooth Cruise Experience
Cruising is all about relaxation and adventure, but a little bit of planning goes a long way. Here’s how to avoid rookie mistakes and ensure smooth sailing from start to finish.
🌊 Worried About Seasickness? You Probably Won’t Even Notice
If you’re imagining yourself clutching the railing, turning green, don’t worry—seasickness isn’t as common as people think. Modern cruise ships are designed to keep things smooth and stable:
✅ Stabilisers: These high-tech fins help minimize movement, so the ship glides through the water.
✅ Route Planning: Cruise lines avoid rough seas whenever possible, choosing calmer waters.
✅ Ship Size Matters: The bigger the ship, the less you feel the movement.
BUT… nature is unpredictable. Even though you’re unlikely to feel much motion, it’s still smart to be prepared—just in case. Pack:
Ginger tablets – A natural remedy that works surprisingly well.
Seasickness wristbands – They use acupressure to help with nausea.
Dramamine or Sea legs (NZ)– A reliable over-the-counter option.
Antinausea medication– A stronger prescription option for those really worried. Just talk to your doctor.
👔 Check the Dress Code (and Theme Nights! 🎭)
Some cruise lines still have formal nights, where people go all out in tuxedos and evening gowns. Others have a more casual approach, where “formal” just means a nice shirt and dress pants.
Traditional Formal Nights: Expect black-tie elegance (think Cunard or some Celebrity & Princess sailings).
Smart Casual: Collared shirts and dresses, but no need for ball gowns.
Totally Laid-Back: Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages, and some Royal Caribbean sailings let you wear whatever you like.
🎉 Theme Nights: Join the Party (or Not!)
Many cruise lines also have theme nights—totally optional, but fun if you love to dress up!
🕺 White Party: Everyone wears white—think Ibiza vibes with music and dancing.
🍍 Tropical Night: Bust out the Hawaiian shirts and floral dresses.
🎩 Gatsby Night: 1920s glam, flapper dresses, and suits.
🎭 Masquerade Night: Bring a mask for a little mystery.
Mediterranean Night: If you’re on an MSC cruise, expect an Italian-themed dress-up night.
🚨 Pro Tip: Check your cruise line’s pre-cruise emails or forums to see if your sailing has theme nights. That way, you can pack accordingly and not feel left out!
🛄 Pack Smart: The Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
Cruise cabins can be cozy (aka small), and there are a few things you’ll be glad you packed:
✅ Power Strip (Without a Surge Protector) & Plug Converters – Most cruise cabins have limited outlets, and surge protectors are banned. Bring a cruise-friendly USB hub to charge multiple devices at once.
🔌 Check the Ship’s Power Outlets – Cruise ships use different plug types depending on where they’re based. Some have US-style outlets, others have European plugs, and many newer ships offer both. Check your cruise line’s website to see which power adapters or converters you’ll need. A universal travel adapter is a great all-in-one solution!
✅ Magnetic Hooks – Cabin walls are metal! Extra hooks give you more storage for hanging hats, lanyards, bags, and jackets.
✅ Refillable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated without constantly paying for bottled water. Many ships have water refill stations. Some great brands for travelling are Hydrapak and for something a little stylish check out Stojo.
✅ Comfy Walking Shoes – Some port days can rack up 10,000+ steps easily.
✅ Pack a carry-on bag with essentials (swimsuit, sunscreen, meds) for embarkation day—your checked luggage might take hours to arrive in your cabin.
📲 Download the Cruise Line App: Your Pocket Concierge
Most cruise lines have their own apps that make life on board so much easier. You can use them to:
Check the daily schedule (shows, activities, events).
Make dining and entertainment reservations.
Track your onboard spending so you don’t get a shock at the end.
Message other passengers without needing Wi-Fi.
✈️ Arrive the Day Before: Don’t Risk Missing Your Cruise
Nothing kills the vacation vibe faster than a flight delay making you miss the ship. Trust us, cruise ships don’t wait for late passengers (unless you’re on a ship-sponsored excursion).
✅ Fly in the day before. It gives you buffer time for delays and lost luggage.
✅ Book a hotel near the port. Many offer free shuttles to the cruise terminal.
✅ Use the extra time to explore. Pre-cruise stays let you see a bit of the departure city stress-free.
Bon Voyage!
With a little planning, your cruise will be smooth sailing from start to finish. Whether you’re sunbathing on deck, exploring new cultures, or just eating your weight in buffet food, a well-prepared cruise is a happy cruise. Now, go forth and set sail—your dream vacation awaits!
Comments