Cruise Vacation: Research your needs

In order to end up with the perfect cruise vacation for you, you have to clearly understand what you are looking for and what options are available to you. This is done by researching in two areas.

Firstly, you research the market to find out what kinds of cruises are available, familiarizing yourself with the different features, styles and price ranges etc. Secondly, you examine your own unique requirements in a cruise vacation.

Research the market: Cruise Vacation essentials

The first part of the research step is to investigate just what's available in the cruise vacation market. The range of options can seem daunting, but you can make a good start by understanding the following major features:

Type: Cruising vacations are for the young and the old. A new trend in cruising is the family cruises where staff dress up and mimic your children's favorite cartoon characters. Other packages are geared for romantic vacationing couples, the elderly, yoga groups, the budget-conscious crowd, and so on. Some offer more luxury, fewer passengers, and more amenities.

Destination: While you may not enjoy each and every stop, cruise ships dock at all corners of the globe and it's up to you to decide which area you want to explore during the week or two you will be on vacation.

Activities & Amenities: When it comes to cruising, extra activities and amenities are available but probably not included in the price of your package. The reason for this is spacing and resources. While cruise ships stock amply for each voyage, if you are going to use extra 'resources', the extra space will cost you. However, most shows, concerts, and even comedy routines will be covered in the cost of your vacation package.

Pre-trip Planning: Before you head out, make a list of things to do. This will help you keep everything organized. If you will be stopping at foreign ports of call, then you might be required to obtain a visa. Sometimes this can be obtained upon arrival. Check with your cruise line for details first.

Travel Agent/DIY & Fares: If you have the time to do the necessary research, planning, and booking you might save yourself some money. A travel agent, on the other hand, will put all of the above into one package for you and save you the hassle, but you will have to pay for this service. Also, you might find some great, last minute deals online too, if you have the time and know-how to go looking.

Cost: The cost of a cruising vacation depends on the season you will be traveling in, the length of time the cruise lasts, and whether it is a luxury cruise or not. A basic cruising package for two will cost half than a trip with the same cruising itinerary that is considered more 'luxurious'.

Research your needs: Questions to ask yourself

Now it's time to determine what your requirements are in a cruise vacation. For example, will you go on the cruise for a special anniversary or is this an annual vacation?

You can start this process by considering the following questions - as well as any others you think of yourself - and recording your answers.

Have I been on a cruise before?
	If you have taken a cruise vacation, work out what you did or didn't like about it. You may be looking for a trip exactly like it, hoping to upgrade, or even trying to avoid any particular features that you found inconvenient.

What do I want to go cruising for?
	Maybe you have been on a cruise before and enjoyed it, or perhaps you are simply attracted to the idea of exploring by boat, instead of by car, plane, or train. Perhaps you think you'll enjoy the mixture of activities offered and the entertainment and food provided.

Who is going cruising with me?
	You could be going alone, however many cruising vacations are taken by couples and families. There are also some trips geared for singles.

Where do I plan on going?
	If you have been cruising before, perhaps you want to explore another region. Cruising ships stop off at what are called ports of call. These stops can be in other countries, on small islands, or even at the most romantic of cities.

When do I plan on going?
	Cruising ships often operate year round, unless waters in certain areas become dangerous. Prices are cheaper in the low season as ships attempt to fill spaces. If you have to book during the high season, try to do so several months in advance to save money and guarantee a spot.

How long will I stay cruising?
	Most cruising vacation packages last about one to two weeks. Longer trips, such as those that last three weeks to a month do exist, but are more expensive. You need to know your time constraints, and those of your traveling companions. Also, you want to give yourself a couple of days to prepare before the trip and then to unwind once you get home.

How much room will I need?
	Ships are often designed to hold as many people as they can. That means that rooms can be small and crowded. Some don't even have windows. Cruising companies don't expect you to spend much time in your room, unless you are sleeping. If you need more space, expect to pay double to triple the price for the extra space.

Am I susceptible to motion sickness?

If you know you may get seasick you can plan for it in advance and still have a wonderful vacation. There are herbal remedies and pressure point treatments you can try before taking medication. Everyone has a different preference so try the simplest first. Medication is always available from the ships doctor if needed. Also, the higher up the ship your cabin is located the more motion you can expect to have.

How much do I want to spend?
	Some cruise companies give discounts to groups and families, and have reduced rates for children.

Understanding your needs is the key to a successful purchase and you can revisit your list of needs at any time during the buying process.

Once you complete this Research step, having informed yourself about the essentials of cruise vacations and identified your needs, you are ready to move on to the next step: Evaluation.

Video Links

Norwegian Cruise Line - Promo
Norwegian Cruise Line with relax schedule and fewer restrictions. (4m 32s)