7 TIPS TO PLAN YOUR FIRST CRUISE

Where should I go and when? What ought I should bring? What's it like to stay, eat, and have fun at a resort on the water? Here are some tips to help you plan your dream cruise vacation.

You're thinking about taking your first cruise. You might be wondering about drinking drinks while taking in breathtaking beach vistas, travelling to fascinating port cities, or getting treated with a new spa treatment each day.

Along with your thoughts of taking your first ocean cruise, you undoubtedly also have some practical concerns, such as Where should I go and when? What ought I should bring? What's it like to stay, eat, and have fun at a resort on the water? Here are some tips to help you plan your dream cruise vacation.

1. MAP OUT THE PERFECT TIME TO SAIL.

Reports from the Cruise Lines International Association show that there are up to 500 ports worldwide that a cruise ship can take you to. Anca Cernea has been a concierge for Celebrity Cruises for more than ten years, and according to her, the areas of the world have an optimum cruising season specific to them. For instance, it would be ideal to go on a Caribbean cruise from December to April. Sailing to Alaska and Europe is best during the summer, and as for South America and Australia, the winter period is just the perfect timing. Cruise experts may advise you further on the website where you make your cruising reservation.

2. EMBRACE THE SHIP'S LUXURY SUITES

Balcony cabins and suites are a few posh sleeping options on luxury cruise lines like Celebrity. There are a few VIP suites on Celebrity's Silhouette, which sail to the Western Caribbean, and they include luxuries like a butler, a fully stocked mini-bar, and a spa tub on the balcony. Access to a beachside concierge-like Cernea before the cruise even starts is another benefit for visitors staying in the ship's opulent cabins.

3. PREPARE FOR DAY AND NIGHT-LIFE

According to the Cruise Line International Association, the dress code for cruising is typically casual during the day. Still, it can be more formal at night, depending on the event you're attending and the ship. To ensure you have your essentials when you board the boat, put them in a small carry-on bag with your toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes.

Beachwear is typically the preferred style for travel to the Caribbean and other warm-weather locations. At the same time, some of the specialty restaurants on board ships require a little more sophisticated attire for supper. Even in a warm region, pack a lightweight sweater or jacket if you find the ship's air conditioning or the evening air to be a little chilly. Choose layers of clothing for cooler climates so you may add more for cold daytime outdoor adventures and take less off for night-time cocktail hour back on the ship.

4. DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR DOCUMENTATION.

All essential travel documentation must be made available by guests on their dime and must be on-person at all times. For boarding and re-entry into the U.S. and other countries, the proper valid travel documents, such as a passport, a visa, an immunization certificate, and family legal documents, are necessary.

All visitors must travel with passports valid for at least an additional six months after the completion of their trip.

5. BE THERE ON TIME

This point is crucial advice when planning your first cruise--don't be late for boarding. Make sure you verify your cruise's exact boarding and departure times. If you're going to the port city, consider getting there a day early to avoid rushing.

6. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SPECIAL DINING RESERVATIONS.

While there is plenty of delectable food available for breakfast, lunch, and supper in the main dining area, you should also plan to visit a few of the specialist eateries. Dining selections vary on every ship and are available to guests for an extra fee. You may choose from Murano's sophisticated French-inspired cuisine, Tuscan Grille's more laid-back Italian steakhouse, or Qsine's inventive presentations of international cuisine. Consult your concierge for information on booking a reservation.

7. MAKE PLANS FOR SHORE EXCURSIONS

Each port of arrival on a cruise offers a wide range of attractions and activities. Would you like to see underwater life on a dive off the U.S. Virgin Islands, soar on a zip line trip through a rainforest in Puerto Rico, or travel by scenic train through Alaska's mountains and glaciers?

If you plan to partake in a particular activity, schedule a shore excursion in advance since you can do so before the trip. But once you're on board, you can also sign up. Depending on your preferred level of entertainment or relaxation, a concierge can also suggest anything from a brief strolling tour to an exhilarating excursion.

When it's time to return aboard, the fun doesn't stop. To ensure that passengers always have things to do, each ship includes a wide variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment opportunities.

Ready to set sail?