All About Cruising: Guide for First Time Cruisers

All about Cruises Guide for First Time Cruisers By: Frances P Robinson

This publication is intended to provide helpful and informative material. No action should be taken solely on the contents of this book without exploring available options and policies with cruise line of choice. The author and publisher specifically disclaim all responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from the use or application of any contents of this book.

Any and all information referenced within this book is the trademarks of their respective owners. None of these owners have sponsored, authorized, endorsed, or approved this book.

Always read all information provided by cruise line, travel agent or other affiliates before using their products. The author and publisher are not responsible for claims made by others.

Manufactured in the United States of America in 2013 Copyright Ó 2013 Frances P Robinson.

All rights reserved.

Important Note:

This book is a general guide only. If you are planning a cruise you should check specific details with the cruise line of choice as their procedures, policies and accommodations may be different than those presented in this guide.

About The Author

For years my husband wanted to cruise. I always refused because I wasn’t sure I could tolerate the motion. (Going on a cruise was a big step for me because I get sick after 2 hours of car travel.)

An opportunity arose to join family members on a 5 day cruise. I bravely decided go and planned to double up on motion sickness prevention methods. I took motion sickness pills and wore motion sickness wrist bands around the clock. IT WORKED! Now 7 cruises later I'm writing about the many details of cruising for first timers.

I remember how confused I was on my first cruise trying to learn what to do, when and where. Although the contents of this book may be boring for the seasoned cruiser it should be a valuable guide  for first timers.

Frances P Robinson started writing for a local magazine and newspaper in 1995 after her husband suffered a work related accident. She is married, mother of 2 adult children, grandmother of 6 and great grandmother of twins. She resides in Covington Louisiana.

Dedication

This book is dedicated to Larry, my loyal husband and cruising partner.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Before You Book a Cruise

What Does a Cruise Cost? After You Book a Cruise  Day of Departure

All Aboard: Time to Eat! How to Get Around Examples of Things to Do

Outdoor Activities Indoor Activities

What to do with Kids? Shore Excursions

Cost of Excursions  Types of Excursions Finding Your Tour Guide

Odd and End Discoveries

Disembarkation

Thanks for the Memories

BEFORE YOU BOOK A CRUISE

Where do you want to go?

After you decide you will go on a cruise the next decision you’ll make is where to go. Do you want a cold or warm destination? Do you want to visit a specific location or region? How far are you willing to travel? Where is the nearest departure port? Can you drive or will you have to fly possibly increasing the overall cost of the cruise? Consider all options with any traveling companions before making a decision.

Which Cruise Line?

Which cruise line to choose? If convenience matters you’ll want to sail a cruise line that leaves from a port close to your home.

If destination is important choose a cruise line that stops in those ports. (Usually multiple ships sailing from the same home port sail to the same port stops.)

Lastly ask your cruising friends and coworkers what they like or dislike about different ships they have sailed on.

Shopping for Specials

If you want the  best prices look  for early booking specials, last minute deals or other such promotions. Discounts are usually available for seniors, military and past guest. Sometimes you won’t get deep discounts on the price but onboard credits instead. Onboard credits can be used for purchases on the ship such as pictures, excursions, etc. Policy may vary by ship so inquire about what purchases are eligible.

How long do you want to cruise?

You’ll have to decide the length of your cruise. Popular cruise lengths are  3, 4, 5 and 7 days. (All durations may not be available at every port or cruise