Approximately 20 percent of the US population has taken a cruise, according to the Cruise Lines International Association, or CLIA, and more than 50 million North Americans plan on cruising between 2010 and 2013. First-time cruisers frequently report exceeded expectations for food, entertainment, accommodations and overall quality of their vacation. About 80 percent of cruisers say that this type of vacation is an "important vehicle for sampling destinations" they'd like to visit again.


CLIA indicates that today's cruisers are "frequent vacationers who cruise as part of their vacation mix." Cruising is an exciting and inexpensive way for vacationers to sample different islands or port cities. On average, 40 percent of cruisers return to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Hawaii, Mexico, Europe and Alaska for land-based vacations. Compared with other vacations, travelers say a cruise vacation represents better value for the money, offers something for everyone, provides safe and reliable transportation, relaxes them and presents truly hassle-free travel. Cruisers like saving money on food and hotel expenses, as well as encountering fewer airport hassles. They're pampered with fine dining, adventure, unique itineraries and world-class entertainment.

Booking Your Trip

CLIA 2010 statistics revealed that most cruisers booked their trip 5.6 months in advance, on average. Some people book through a travel agent, but most research at and book through cruise line websites or discount providers like According to Frommer's, booking ahead ensures you get first dibs on tours and rooms with a view, but on the downside, you could lose your deposit if you change your mind a few months before sailing. Fox Business describes the categories of ships as mainstream, premium, deluxe and luxury, which differ in atmosphere, decor, clientele, amenities and price. For instance, Carnival is a budget line that can be called a "kid-friendly party at sea," whereas Celebrity appeals to older couples and honeymooners looking for an elegant European atmosphere.

Before You Go

CruiseCritic recommends driving to the pier or booking air travel to arrive no later than noon on embarkation day, but preferably the day before. Be sure you have a valid passport, photo ID and any necessary paperwork filled out before departing. Look up your cruise line's dress code, which range from "resort casual" with khakis and skirts to "casual" with polo shirts and tank tops to formal with suit jackets and evening gowns. Keep in mind that seasickness happens to the best of us, so it's wise to bring a magnetic wristband or motion sickness pills in your carry-on.

What To Expect On Board

Once on board, you might find your room to be very small unless you opted for a more spacious balcony suite. State rooms usually come equipped with outlets, but no DVD players or alarm clocks. In your room, you'll find a schedule of entertainment events that might include Broadway-style shows, movies, games, comedy shows, dances, educational seminars and tours. For dinner, some cruise lines offer traditional fixed-seating, which means you'll be at a table with several other couples at a set time in a large room. Cruise lines like Princess and NCL offer a larger window of time for dining and the option to sit at a table for two. Luxury liners such as Silversea and Regent will fill your wine glass for free, but generally you will pay extra for all alcoholic and carbonated beverages.

Port Stops

You might be in port for less than five hours or nearly two full days, with an average stay of about eight hours. Some passengers choose to explore on their own, as the ports are usually loaded with dining and shopping options. To maximize time, other passengers book shore excursions through the cruise line. They might take leisurely sightseeing bus tours or adventurous snorkeling and horseback riding trips. While you can book through a local provider, "The Los Angeles Times" says booking through the ship ensures that your provider has been vetted and will get you back to the ship before departure. These excursions cost extra, but contribute to a hassle-free vacation.

Money Matters

While cruises boast "all-inclusive rates," beware of extra expenses. Frommer's says you'll likely pay additional fees for fitness classes, specialty restaurants, bottled water, soda, booze, fancy lattes, spa treatments and tips. Some ships include an automatic gratuity in their rates, but it's standard practice to bring a few extra dollars to reward exceptional service. To get a cruise bargain, "The Los Angeles Times" recommends cruising during the off-season. According to MSNBC, frugal travelers should avoid spring break and summer months, which have bigger crowds and higher prices. Great deals can be found with hurricane/rainy season voyages and repositioning cruises.

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