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How to Choose Your Ship & Cabin
A cruise holiday can be exactly what you want it to be, providing you choose the right ship & itinerary. Some people cruise for the joy of being at sea and that magical feeling of elation and freedom from everyday stress. Some cruise for the destination making the most of port time to get ashore. Others want to enjoy all the activities, entertainment, dining choices and socializing opportunities the ships provides. No matter which way you choose to cruise, there are 4 important decisions you need to make before you sail off:
1. CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE STYLE
It may be the adventure of a lifetime exploring the ice shelves of the Arctic, or five-star luxury cruising the sun-drenched ports of the Mediterranean. It might be the realisation of a life’s dream cruising around the world, or a 12-night meander along one of Europe or Asia’s most stunning rivers.
Cruise styles are as varied as the ships and river ships that provide them. But no matter who you are, there is a cruise out there that will suit your needs, wants and tastes! You just need to discover what style of cruising you prefer.
2. CHOOSE YOUR CRUISE SHIP
Yes, size does matter and it will dictate a whole range of issues that influence your cruise experience – everything from the number of entertainment options to the amount of personal space available in public areas, to the size of the queue embarking for a shore excursion.
Size also may influence the cost of your cruise: the mega ships with greater family appeal and a host of accommodation options tend to offer more economical pricing. A rule of thumb is that the smaller the ship and the more personal the service, the higher the price.
Choose the cruise ship that is right for you.
3. CHOOSE YOUR CABIN TYPE
Inside, outside, ocean view, restricted ocean view, interior facing, balcony, veranda, suite, spa suite, accessible, twin share, triple share, quad share, family. Is it a cabin or a stateroom, and how much does size really matter?
The range of accommodation choices on modern cruise ships – sometimes more than 20 different categories on a single ship – may seem baffling to first-time cruisers. But have no fear. More choice means more options to suit your holiday budget, and the perfect match for your holiday personality. Which cabin type do you prefer?
4. CHOOSE YOUR CABIN LOCATION
The catchphrase “location, location, location” can be just as relevant to the position of your cabin on a cruise ship as it is to the purchase of a piece of real estate. Get it right and it will make your holiday. And getting it right isn’t necessarily a function of price – there are sweet spots for quiet types, party people and light sleepers alike.
With your ship deck plan to hand, there are a few general tips to help make your cruise as smooth as possible.
