To plan a first cruise, choose your destination first, then a cruise line that fits your style, then a cabin. Book flights that land the day before you sail, and budget for extras such as gratuities, excursions and drinks. Everything else is easier once those decisions are made.
A cruise is one of the simplest vacations to enjoy and one of the most confusing to book. Here is how we walk first-time cruisers through it at Ines Tours & Travel.
Step 1: Pick where before you pick a ship
The destination shapes everything. The Caribbean is warm, relaxed and full of beach days. Alaska is about glaciers and scenery, and it is seasonal. The Mediterranean is about history and cities, with a busier pace in port. Southern California travelers can also sail from Los Angeles or Long Beach to the Mexican Riviera without flying at all, a good way to try cruising.
Step 2: Choose the right cruise line
Cruise lines have personalities. Some are lively, with water slides and shows. Others are quiet, with fine dining and older crowds. The same itinerary can feel like two different vacations depending on the ship. Be honest about what you enjoy, and do not simply book the cheapest sailing.
Step 3: Choose your cabin
Your cabin choices are inside, ocean view, balcony and suite. A balcony is wonderful on a scenic route, while an inside cabin is fine if you only sleep there. Location also matters. Mid-ship is steadier if you worry about motion, and it pays to avoid cabins under the pool deck or near elevators.
Step 4: Fly in the day before
This is the rule we repeat the most. The ship will not wait for a delayed flight. Arrive the day before, stay near the port and enjoy a relaxed morning. It costs one more night and removes the biggest risk in any cruise vacation.
Step 5: Understand what is not included
Your fare generally covers your cabin, main dining, entertainment and many activities. Common extras include daily gratuities, drinks, specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi and shore excursions. Cruise lines package these differently, so compare the true cost, not the headline fare.
Step 6: Prepare your documents
Check the passport and identification rules for your sailing well in advance, since these depend on your itinerary and citizenship. If you are sailing internationally, a passport with plenty of validity is the safest choice.
Step 7: Pack smart
Bring formal-ish clothes if your line has dressier evenings, along with a small day bag for port days. Keep medications and documents in your carry-on, because checked luggage may not reach your cabin until the evening.
Want someone to make these choices with you? Our cruise specialists in Burbank match you with the right line and cabin, and arrange your flights and hotel around the ship.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book my first cruise?
For popular itineraries and cabin types, booking six to twelve months ahead gives you the most choice, although last-minute deals do sometimes appear.
What is the best first cruise from Los Angeles?
A short Mexican Riviera sailing from Los Angeles or Long Beach is a popular choice because you do not need to fly and can try cruising in about a week or less.
