You’ve decided on an ocean cruise for vacation this year. Mediterranean? Alaskan? Caribbean? Australian? Big ship? Small ship? Luxury, main stream, specialty? A lot of the fun is in the planning – those slick websites and brochures are FUN to look at. Whatever you do, don’t make these mistakes:
Same Day Flight. I get it. You don’t want to waste a precious vacation day, so you book a flight to arrive on the same day as departure. Don’t do it. Airlines are flying at maximum capacity and if a flight is cancelled or you’re delayed and miss a connection there isn’t a lot of wiggle room to re-accommodate you.
Arriving a day or two early affords you the chance to recover from jet-lag, explore your departure city, or just enjoy some decompression as you transition to vacay mode. Wouldn’t you rather check out Seattle’s Pike Place Market and the Space Needle, spend a couple of days exploring Rome, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach than trying to catch up with your cruise? Even if you catch up to the ship a day or two later, you’ve missed the beginning of your vacation and you’ve spent the first few days stressing instead of relaxing.
Wait until on-board to book shore excursions. Spontaneity is great, especially when traveling. Not with shore excursions. If there is an excursion you know you want to do, book it early. Don’t wait until you are on board. Otherwise, there’s an excellent chance it may be sold out. Some of the more popular excursions sell out months prior to sailing.
And, you don’t have to book your excursions through the cruise line. Many cruise ports of call have reputable, local guides and tours available and there are companies that specialize in shore excursions. Would you rather see the Acropolis with a numbered sticker on your chest while jostling for position with 60 of your “best” friends? Or explore it with a group of six, enjoying commentary from a licensed, passionate docent?
Pick the wrong ship. It’s not just big vs small. Are you traveling with kids and want them to be welcomed and entertained rather than frowned at disapprovingly? Or, do you think a ship that is shriek-free is more your cup of tea? Speaking of tea - do you expect high tea every day? Country-club ambience or more laid back? Do you favor a ship that rolls up the carpet by 11 every evening or do you plan on partying until dawn? With clothes or clothing optional? OK, that one is obvious. But, selecting the wrong ship for your personality or travel style can make a wonderful ship less than appealing.
Consider price only. There’s a reason Caribbean cruises are cheap in October and November. Harvey, Irma, or Maria ring any bells? Or Alaska in May, late August/September – rain anyone? Yes, it rains all summer in Alaska, but it can get downright torrential in the Spring and Fall. European cruises in the fall can be cold. What are your on-board expectations and utilizations? You might find that paying more for a cruise with more included is actually less expensive than one that is cheaper up front but only includes the proverbial “nickel and diming" amenities.
If you’re flexible and understand why a cruise is discounted, some bargains can be a great value. During hurricane season, ships are generally able to avoid the storms. Just, be okay with having the itinerary changed or having a shortened or lengthened cruise. A Mediterranean cruise in the fall, in my opinion, is the best. Fewer crowds and no stifling heat. It can get chilly, but if you’re prepared for it, not a problem. Remember, you want to get best value – not the lowest price.
Are you ready to find the perfect cruise for you? I’d love to help. Call 888-429-1929 or email travel@sevenwondersgrouptravel.com today to schedule a complimentary consultation and we’ll start the planning!