To find your perfect maiden voyage, read our handy tips below.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your first cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
Timing is key
If you are on a tight budget, cruising out of season can make a huge difference. The cheapest cruises will be in Winter and early Spring, but depending on your destination, the sea can be rougher (the effects of which will especially be felt on smaller boats). There will also be less choice as most cruise companies move the majority of their ships to the Caribbean until the European weather improves. To enjoy the best weather in Europe, you could holiday during the school holidays in July and August but prices will be at their highest and ships will be busy with children on board. Early Summer and Autumn can therefore be perfect times to escape if you don't have school-age children. The prices will be lower but your likely to still soak up the sun in most destinations.
Size really does matter
With ships ranging from 30 to 5,000 cabins, there's a huge variety to choose from and multiple benefits to both. Larger ships will have an abundance of restaurants and different entertainment options, day and night, whereas smaller ships are often more focused on their destinations. They can harbour in a wider range of ports and will often have more intimate excursion groups from local guides. In comparison, there's really no need to leave the larger ships if that's more your holiday vibe but if you do disembark, the range of excursions will be greater (just make sure you book early to avoid disappointment).
The location of your cabin is crucial to a great trip
If you can, try to book your cabin early. This will give you the most choice of location (and often the best price). Most cruise companies will have deck plans to help you pick the right cabin for you. A mid-ship cabin will often be the most expensive as it's where the effect of the waves will be barely noticeable, but this extra spend will make the journey far more comfortable for those who suffer from sea sickness, especially on smaller ships. Also consider any accessibility needs of your party. Some cabins can be a long way from the lifts and those extra steps may be an issue. Finally, if you planning on some early nights or long lay-ins, don't book a cabin above or below a popular public area, such as a restaurant or play zone, as your your relaxing oasis could become anything but.
Who do you want to share your holiday with?
Different cruise companies focus on different demographics. You don't want to take young children on a ship without a pool or play areas and likewise, your romantic get away may be best served by a ship with a focus on daytime relaxation and night time fun. There is lots of choice in each category. For families, Royal Caribbean have excellent facilities for those who love to keep busy with world-class facilities whilst Disney Cruises really bring the magic alive for younger children. See our guide to cruising with kids here. Other companies, such as Virgin and Fred Olsen, focus on adult only trips, perfect for groups of friends and couples who'd prefer to leave the craziness of children behind on land. Expect a very different type of cruiser on these ships: Virgin attract a younger audience who want to cruise in a new way whereas Fred Olsen keep cruise traditions alive with formal evenings and relaxing lounges.
Virgin Voyages says no to kids on the ocean
Sea days
Some cruisers love a day out on the open ocean, making use of all the boat’s amenities and panoramic views, while others much prefer to hop off the ship each day to explore a new region. If this is you, it may be worth flying to your destination first to avoid the long stretches at sea. Heading to the Caribbean from England? Fly to Miami first. Fancy soaking up the sun in the Mediterranean? Why not head to Barcelona for a few days sightseeing before hopping onboard.
Dress to impress or relax in your slacks
Its important to be aware that different cruise companies have very different expectations of dress onboard. Some, such as Cunard, expect diners to look their best each evening, bringing a traditional cruise atmosphere with event dining in the main dining halls. If that's not for you, a company such as Norwegian allow guests to choose their own dress code so everyone is comfortable onboard. See our cruise line guide for more.
Check what's included in the price
You don't want to be caught out with your budgeting by presuming your cabin price includes all your amenities. Sometimes this is the case, but more often there are add-ons to consider. Most cruise lines have food, non-alcoholic beverages and entertainment as standard and guests pay extra for speciality dining, Wifi and some facilities. There are some companies which make an exception to this rule. Virgin include all dining, WiFi and exercise classes in your package whilst Saga also incorporate excursions, chauffer services and premium drinks. The prices may be higher, but you're likely to save in the long run. Once you've chosen your ideal company, make sure you check the small print to ensure you're actually getting a good deal.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your first cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
