Experts share best cruise advice, lessons learned for smooth sailing
Choosing the right ship and the right room matters when planning a cruise vacation — Photo courtesy of cworthy / E+
Cruising on the oceans and waterways of the world is one of the most popular ways to travel. What’s not to love? You unpack once and have endless entertainment, top-notch food, and, of course, sunsets, activities, and more. But with so many choices — Do you want a family cruise or an adults-only cruise? Looking for ocean cruise lines or river cruises? — it can seem overwhelming to plan.
We’ve covered many topics when it comes to cruising, like how to choose the right room and (a biggie) how to prevent seasickness. The following is some of the best cruising advice and tips we’ve heard this year.
Picking the right time to cruise
Picking the right time to cruise comes down to personal preference — Photo courtesy of Flavio Vallenari / E+
Choosing the best time to cruise depends on many factors, including the best season for your destination, your budget, and the weather. You could make a complex Venn diagram to figure it all out or read our guide to the best time to cruise the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera, Hawaii, and more.
Read more: When is the best time to go on a cruise? Here’s where to go and when
Getting cruise travel insurance
Buying travel insurance for a cruise is a must — Photo courtesy of Lisa-Blue / E+
Like any vacation, you want a safety net when booking and taking a cruise. But many people don’t consider purchasing travel insurance to protect themselves and their investment. Here are some compelling reasons why you should and expert cruise tips on what to look for in a policy (i.e., read the fine print!).
Read more: Is travel insurance for a cruise worth it? What it covers, and why you should consider it
Choosing the right rooms on a cruise ship
Choosing the right room for you can make or break a cruise — Photo courtesy of baona / E+
Once you figure out your destination and which cruise line to book, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty: selecting your cruise ship room. We have some helpful cruise tips and tricks for navigating the murky waters of which cruise cabin, stateroom, or suite fits your budget, party size, and vibe.
Read more: Cruise ship rooms: How to choose the right cabin for a perfect vacation on the water
Creating a cruise packing list for families
Knowing what to pack for kids ensures smooth sailing for everyone — Photo courtesy of Carnival Cruise Lines
Cruising with kids means ensuring you have everyday essentials — and a few extras, like power strips and night lights — for smooth and stress-free sailing. This should be your new checklist for what to pack when traveling with family.
Read more: Cruise packing list for a stress-free family cruise: 10 essential tips, tricks, and hacks
Preventing seasickness on a cruise
Nipping seasickness in the bud before you board your ship is key — Photo courtesy of Pekic / E+
Nothing spoils the magic of seeing a sunset at sea like dizziness. Even the most experienced cruisers occasionally feel seasick, but that doesn’t stop them from enjoying their vacation. We asked a family doctor about the most effective ways to prevent seasickness on a cruise, which includes scopolamine patches, herbal cures, and more.
Read more: Avoid getting motion sickness on a cruise: 10 tips and tricks to keep you steady
Cruising with dietary restrictions
Cruising with dietary restrictions can be tricky — Photo courtesy of Marina113 / iStock Via Getty Images
Food allergies can be cumbersome on a cruise. If you’re sensitive to peanuts or don’t eat meat or dairy, it can be challenging — but not impossible — to eat safely. In this article, a mom whose daughter has celiac disease shares how to navigate your way around the ship buffets, casual cafes, and fine-dining restaurants on a cruise if you or someone you’re traveling with has dietary restrictions.
Read more: How to cruise comfortably with dietary restrictions: 9 tips from travelers who know
