1. Type of Cruise: Make a decision on what type of cruise you want to experience, there are various cruise lines that cater to all types of budgets. Do you want to be on a moderately priced floating resort like Carnival or Royal Caribbean, or Princess Cruises known as floating resorts or do you want to be on a more intimate ship like a specialty cruise or a yacht?

2. Where to go: Decide what is more important to you, a great ship or the actual the itinerary. Cruises to a beach destination, Alaska, or historic European cities will all offer a different cruise experience. Whatever destination you choose… don’t forget your passport

3. Length of Cruise: Do you want more days at sea so you can enjoy the amenities and activities on the ship have or would you prefer to stop at a new port each day? The length of your cruise as well as the destination will play a big role on this key factor.

4. Choice of Cabin: This can be one of the biggest misconceptions ever, I here many people say it does not matter what type of cabin you choose, to go with whatever is cheaper. I say yes it does! Your cabin does determine the type of experience. First let’s start with the different cabin styles:

a. Inside Cabin – this typically does not have any windows. But with Royal Caribbean have inside cabins that have windows that look out over their Promenades… Nice!
b. Oceanview – this style cabin is on the perimeter of the ship and have a window wear you can enjoy the view
c. Balcony – My favorite! Has a private balcony where you can sit out and enjoy the constantly changing scenery, early morning sunrise or late night, nite-cap with the hubby, if you know what I mean;)
d. Suites – a larger version of a Balcony stateroom, some may have a small sitting areas and other great features.
Your budget will, of course, determine your cabin selection (check out my, but their way, don’t listen to the ones that say, “you just need a place to sleep” You may want to ability to get-up 3am and walk-out on your Balcony in your robe vs getting dress at 3am to get see what’s some fresh air and take in the view.

5. What to wear: Some ships are more formal than others. Some may offer a combination of both casual attire and formal wear. You will need to know so you can pack accordingly

6. Food Choice: Do you want a ship that offers a variety of food selections such as specialty restaurants? Or do you want more gourmet selections. You will find that all ships have a wide selection, even healthy selections so you won’t be disappointed in the food department.

7. Dining Arrangements: Decide if you want to dine at a specific time or if you want to have more open/ freestyle seating? If you select a ship that offers specific dining time, they also have a dining area open for the not so formal folks. It’s buffet style so you get your tray and pick your selections. One point I like to make that is you don’t see something you like that is offered or want to create-your-own meal with what is there, just ask, they will fix it up for you!

8. Amenities: most of the ships have the same offerings such as tv’s in rooms, dining, pools, casinos, game rooms and much more. But be sure the amenities fit what you are looking to do on the ship. For example, if you like to gamble, you will find casinos on Carnival and Royal Caribbean, however, if you are considering a Disney Cruise, you will not find this amenity.

9. Activities: Are the ship’s activities more important to you or is relaxation more important? If you are traveling with kids, you may want to look this over with a fine tooth comb. Your kids will be just as excited as you to embark on your cruise adventure; they too will want to know what activities are available. Get them involved in this, they will love it!

10. Budget: Are you willing to pay more for want you want or do you want to stay at the bottom of your budget. All the above factors will affect price, so decide what you want and compare a few cruises so you can gauge your options.

Whatever you decide, don’t let anyone sway your sway your decision. This is your vacation and your first cruise experience, make the best of it, have fun, and relax.

Happy Cruising!