How to Select a Cruise

Posted by

Kristin Staley

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How to Choose the Perfect Cruise: A Guide to Itineraries and Departures

Cruising offers a unique way to explore the world with all the comforts of a floating resort. But with so many itineraries and departure ports, how do you choose the right one? Here’s a breakdown of the most popular cruise options, departure locations, and key factors to consider when selecting your perfect voyage.

Popular Cruise Itineraries

Caribbean & Bahamian Cruises

  • Departure Ports: Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, Tampa), East Coast (Baltimore, New York), Gulf Ports (New Orleans, Galveston)
  • Cruise Lengths: 3 to 14 nights
  • Popular Destinations: Nassau, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Aruba, Dominican Republic
  • Best For: Beach lovers, snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, families, and those looking for quick getaways or extended island-hopping adventures

Alaska Cruises

  • Departure Ports: Vancouver (Canada), Seattle, Anchorage (Seward or Whittier)
  • Cruise Lengths: 7 to 14 nights
  • Types:
    • Roundtrip (Seattle or Vancouver) – Easier logistics, but limited inland exploration
    • One-Way (Vancouver to Anchorage or vice versa) – Allows for extended land tours to Denali and the interior
  • Popular Destinations: Glacier Bay, Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, Sitka
  • Best For: Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those wanting to explore glaciers and rugged landscapes

Mediterranean Cruises

  • Departure Ports: Barcelona, Rome (Civitavecchia), Venice, Athens, Istanbul
  • Cruise Lengths: 7 to 14 nights
  • Types:
    • Western Mediterranean: Spain, France, Italy, Monaco
    • Eastern Mediterranean: Greece, Croatia, Turkey, Greek Isles
  • Popular Destinations: Santorini, Mykonos, Dubrovnik, Naples, Florence, Marseille
  • Best For: Culture seekers, history buffs, food and wine lovers, and those looking for a mix of beach and city experiences

Other European Cruises

  • Departure Ports: London (Southampton), Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Hamburg
  • Cruise Lengths: 7 to 21 nights
  • Types:
    • Northern Europe & Baltic: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Russia (some changes due to geopolitics)
    • British Isles: England, Scotland, Ireland
    • Iberian Peninsula & Canary Islands: Portugal, Spain, Morocco
  • Best For: History lovers, architecture enthusiasts, and those seeking cooler-weather destinations

Exotic & Bucket-List Cruises

  • Departure Ports: Singapore, Sydney, Dubai, Buenos Aires
  • Cruise Lengths: 10+ nights
  • Popular Destinations: Galápagos Islands, South Pacific, Australia & New Zealand, Antarctica, Africa
  • Best For: Experienced travelers, those seeking unique cultural experiences, and wildlife enthusiasts

Overview of Cruise Lines

Mass Market Cruise Lines

  • Examples: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC Cruises
  • Best For: Families, budget-conscious travelers, first-time cruisers
  • Features: Large ships, extensive onboard activities, entertainment, casual and specialty dining, family-friendly atmosphere

Premium Cruise Lines

  • Examples: Celebrity, Holland America, Princess, Virgin Voyages
  • Best For: Couples, mature travelers, those looking for a balance of value and quality
  • Features: More refined dining, upscale accommodations, enrichment programs, smaller crowds compared to mass-market lines

Luxury Cruise Lines

  • Examples: Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, Oceania, Viking Ocean
  • Best For: Discerning travelers, all-inclusive experiences, personalized service
  • Features: Smaller ships, fine dining, high-end accommodations, destination immersion, exclusive shore excursions

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cruise

1. Cost

  • Shorter cruises (3-5 nights) tend to be more budget-friendly.
  • Longer cruises (7+ nights) and exotic itineraries come with a higher price tag.
  • Consider additional costs such as flights, excursions, gratuities, and onboard spending.

2. Cruise Length

  • 3-5 Nights: Great for first-time cruisers, quick getaways, and budget-conscious travelers.
  • 7-10 Nights: Ideal for a balance of relaxation and adventure, popular for Mediterranean and Alaska.
  • 10+ Nights: Perfect for those who love immersive experiences and exotic destinations.

3. Departure Port Location

  • Choose a port that’s convenient to reach by car or a short flight.
  • Florida has the widest variety of Caribbean and Bahamian cruises.
  • West Coast travelers might prefer Alaska or Hawaii departures from Vancouver or Los Angeles.
  • European cruises require an international flight.

4. Travel Style & Interests

  • Adventure Seekers: Alaska, Galápagos, Antarctica
  • Cultural Explorers: Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia
  • Relaxation & Beach Lovers: Caribbean, South Pacific, Bahamas
  • Luxury Travelers: River cruises in Europe, world cruises

Final Tips for Booking Your Cruise

  • Book Early: Popular itineraries fill up fast, especially in peak seasons.
  • Consider the Season: Alaska cruises run May-September, while Caribbean cruises are year-round.
  • Work with me: I can help you navigate the vast array of options to find the best fit for you.

With the right planning, your cruise can be the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Ready to set sail? Contact me today.