Cruise travel planning:   it is not just a matter of selecting a ship and itinerary.  The best approach includes detailed preparation to ensure your cruise vacation is both stress-free and unforgettable. Whether you're a first-time or seasoned cruiser, knowing the basics of planning a great vacation will help you take full advantage of your time, both at sea and on shore.

Why Does Cruise Travel Planning Matter?

Today’s cruise vacations are like traveling on a floating resort that also provides the thrill of discovering new destinations each day. However, if you don't plan well, it's easy to miss the best of what's there. Cruise travel planning begins with selecting the right itinerary, researching your ports of call, and determining which shore excursions align with your interests and activity preferences. With literally dozens of options in each port, it's important to plan ahead and book early, while the most popular activities are still available.

Another important part of cruise travel planning is booking early. The demand for cruise vacations is at an all-time high and those last-minute deals of yesteryear are long past.  To get the best staterooms and score the best rates, you are well advised to book several months in advance of your target travel date.   Booking early also allows for the best availability of popular activities, both onboard and in port.

Choosing the Right Cruise

There are dozens of cruise lines that provides an array of traveler experiences. Some lines are geared to provide exceptional family entertainment with waterparks and children's programs; others offer an upscale ambiance for empty nesters, offering a luxury ambiance, fine dining and world class spa treatments. Cruise travel planning always begins by identifying the type of experience you prefer:

●      Contemporary Cruises: Family-friendly, great for groups, for families, and young people looking for a fun experience at an affordable rate.

●      Premium Cruises: These providers offer a somewhat more upscale onboard atmosphere with elevated dining, service and finishes.

●      Adventure and Expedition Cruises: For those who want to explore remote regions or options for active excursions like hiking, kayaking or cultural tours.

●      Luxury Cruises: Ideal for travelers seeking a high level of service, suite-level accommodations, and fine dining.

A luxury travel advisor is a great resource to offer advice and recommendations for the best options that match your travel requirements. These professionals are experts at matching travelers to the best travel experience for their needs.  They provide personalized service and frequently have access to exclusive fares and special amenities not available when booking direct or with an online travel provider.

Five Essentials for Cruise Travel Planning

 1.  Budget: Be realistic here.  Don't forget to consider the cost of excursions, specialty dining, beverages, gratuities, and onboard shopping.  A cruise travel agent can help guide you to the providers that provide the best value for your needs.

2. Destination: Is your dream cruise going to take you to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean or perhaps, Alaska?  A cruise travel agent can help you identify the best itineraries and providers for your requirements.

3. Accommodations: Balcony staterooms are the most popular room category among cruises.  These rooms offer expansive views and are ideal for scenic routes; interior cabins are more affordable if budget is a major consideration.

4. Excursions: Space is limited and the most popular shore tours frequently sell out months in advance. Explore options and book early as you don't want to miss out on your “must do” experiences.

5. Travel documents: You will need to determine what documentation is required for you to sail.  Plan to have all your required travel documents in order well in advance of departure, or you will not be allowed to travel.  An experienced cruise travel agent can advise you of the requirements for your destination,

Cruise Travel for Groups

Even a small group travel event requires significant planning.  Booking accommodations, coordinating transportation, and keeping track of deadlines and payments is not for the faint hearted. The assistance of professional group travel specialists is invaluable in this regard. They can manage logistical details, negotiate special group rates, and ensure a seamless experience for everyone in your party.

If you are planning a large group event, you are well advised to lay the groundwork at least a year in advance.  The rule is, the larger the group, the earlier you need to plan.  If you are planning something that would require chartering a small vessel, two years out is not too soon to plan.   A well-executed group tour comes with lasting memories – enlist the assistance of group travel specialists to ensure your group event is seamless and stress free.

Seamless Sailing with Professional Expertise

More and more people are relying on the assistance of professional travel advisors. These experts save busy people hours (and hours and hours) of time, frequently offer significant savings with exclusive rates or amenities, and possible mistakes such as traveling at the wrong time of year for their destination. A luxury travel advisor not only handles the details of your travel experience, but is a valuable source of advice and information. From choosing the ideal vessel and itinerary to recommending interesting shore experiences, their professional expertise ensures a seamless and stress-free travel experience.

If you are planning a multi-national travel experience, professional assistance is invaluable for your international travel planning. Different destinations may have specific visa requirements, local regulations, or health guidelines. Your travel professional will provide guidance and advice to ensure you are prepared for these requirements,

Tips for First-Time Cruisers

●      Fly into your departure port a day prior to departure to allow for the possibility of flight delays.

●      Important items such as medications, travel documents and swimwear belong in your carry-on bag.

●      Review the ship’s deck plan to familiarize yourself of the layout; download the cruise line’s app on your phone.

●      Stay on top of extra costs.  Many cruise fares do not include gratuities, beverages, and specialty dining.  Check your onboard folio daily so you are aware of expenditures.

●      Go forth & have fun!  A cruise vacation has all the elements for building lifetime memories.

A bit of advance planning can be the difference between a stressful trip and a relaxing vacation. Cruise travel planning requires realistic budgeting, selecting the right ship & itinerary, and booking those “memory maker” excursions.  Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or as part of a large group, a bit of careful planning ensures your journey is unforgettable.

Ready to book your Dream Cruise?

At Dancing Moon Travel, our experienced advisors are skilled at curating hassle-free and unforgettable vacation experiences.  Our team of luxury travel advisors and group travel specialists makes cruise travel planning easy and stress free. From planning international travel to creating customized itineraries, we’ll help with every detail.  Give us a call today!