Cruises are one of the best travel values around. They’re also among the most carefree, providing almost everything for one price – accommodations, food, onboard recreation and entertainment, great service, spotless surroundings, and fresh ocean air. No longer the exclusive domain of seniors and the wealthy, cruising in the 21st century is for everyone. They can last from three days to three months and take you just about anywhere in the world.

With nearly 300 cruise ships plying the world's waters and docking at nearly 2,000 ports of call, you have a wide range of choice. There are small ships that hold fewer than 100 passengers, providing intimate atmospheres and cultural events; midsize ships for up to 1,000 passengers; and mammoth mega-ships carrying more than 3,000 passengers and providing everything you could possibly want, including climbing walls, ice skating rinks, surfing pools, bowling alleys, and boxing rings.

Would you like to wake up in a different country every day? Cruise the Caribbean (and go between June and November for the best deals). How about a run up the west coast to Canada and Alaska, passing glaciers and icebergs along the way? Maybe a leisurely cruise across the Pacific to Hawaii and onto the big-city excitement of Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Sydney? Perhaps a Mediterranean cruise with a luxurious stop at Monte Carlo or an idyllic Greek island?



Book as early as possible for the best availability or last minute when unreserved cabins are sometimes discounted.

Typically, cabin classes range from tiny inside rooms without windows to opulent suites with the works: large separate bedrooms, luxurious baths, walk-in closets, dining rooms, hot tubs, baby grand pianos and even butler service. In between those two extremes are three more classes: "outside" cabins with non-opening windows and obstructed views; "balcony" or "veranda" cabins opening onto their own private decks; and "junior suites," with balconies and moderately spacious rooms.

Some cruise lines charge more for cabins on higher decks. However, that's where you'll feel the most motion, making the lower decks preferable for those prone to motion sickness. Regardless of where you are, most ships are very stable. For the most stability, choose an inside room near the center of the ship. With so much to do onboard, you probably won’t spend much time in your cabin anyway. And regardless of your cabin’s price, all passengers enjoy the same food and entertainment, so consider choosing the least-expensive cabin on a more expensive ship.

Understand what's excluded. Some cruise-line fares include alcoholic beverages, sodas, specialty beverages, and tips, while some don't. Some packages have specialty restaurant alternatives not included in your fare. Expect some miscellaneous service charges. And of course, budget for shopping both onboard and ashore, bearing in mind that onshore excursions are usually extra.

International duty-free shopping in Mexican and Caribbean ports is one of the great perks you’ll enjoy. If you stop at St. Thomas, the generous duty-free limit allows you to buy twice the usual amount of undeclared merchandise.






Most cruise ships have medical facilities staffed with physicians and nurses, as well as fitness clubs and spas. If you plan to use the spa, try to book your treatments early. And if you're worried about gaining the proverbial pound-a-day the average passenger brings home, most cruise lines serve low-calorie meals upon request. If you need special menus, notify the cruise line when you book your trip.

Many cruise ships accommodate wheelchair and oxygen users, dialysis patients, diabetics, the visually and hearing impaired, and those with service dogs. Most, if not all, of the newest and biggest cruise ships have a good selection of accessible cabins in several classes.

• Pack as you would for any resort.
• Find out if evening wear is formal, semiformal, or not.
• Know the cruise line's baggage policy and any limitations.
• Consider taking an extra empty bag for things you buy onshore and onboard

Bon voyage!