Travel
5 Mistakes To Avoid When Booking A Cruise
Photo by Alonso Reyes, Unsplash
Travel
5 Mistakes To Avoid When Booking A Cruise
A cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so planning well is key.
Going on a a cruise means waking up every morning in a new port, enjoying the comforts of bougie hotel in the middle of the sea, and, arguably the best part, not having to plan anything once onboard.
The hardest part of this type of travel is choosing which cruise to go on—there are so many companies and different types of boats.
Céline Bussières, author of Cruises: A Guide to Choosing, Planning and Sailing With Confidence, shares the most common mistakes people make when booking this type of holiday and how to avoid them.
5 common mistakes to avoid when going on a cruise
Photo by MChe Lee, Unsplash
1. Choosing the wrong cruise
Not all cruises are the same. Some are certifiable floating cities with water parks, shops, and shows. Others offer a peaceful, intimate experience. Before booking, ask yourself what type of traveller you are. The choice of ship is often just as important as the destination.
2. Choosing the wrong plan (and paying too much)
One of the most common pitfalls: not fully understanding what is included (or not) in your plan.
If you don't drink a lot of alcohol, the "unlimited drinks" package might not be worth it. Wi-Fi and à la carte restaurants are also two important areas to check. Compare the different offers carefully, and be realistic.
3. Choosing the wrong type of cabin
The cabin is your escape and sanctuary during a cruise. A bad choice can quickly ruin your time.
- Claustrophobic? Avoid any cabin without windows and seriously consider one with a balcony.
- Looking for peace and quiet? Take a good look at the layout of the ship, and avoid cabins located near, above, or below bars, restaurants, or engine rooms.
- Worried about getting seasick? Opt for a central cabin on a lower deck.
4. Booking too early (or too late)
Some cruises sell out very quickly, while others sell off remaining cabins at the last minute. Céline's advice? Book as soon as the cruise you like is announced—2 to 3 years in advance!—especially if you have cabin or date preferences. The best prices are often found at the very beginning of the sales period.
5. Don't think about arriving the day of departure
One of the most disastrous mistakes you can make is arriving to the port city on the day of your cruise departure. A delayed flight, a lost suitcase, a traffic jam—the ship will leave without you. Arrive the day before for peace of mind and a smooth start to your vacation.
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