For first time cruisers, choosing your first cruise can make or break whether you love this holiday style. If you decide to go down the travel agent route, they’ll give you a list of questions to determine the cruise line, fit for the destination.
But there are many other factors to consider for your first cruise: the cabin, the itinerary, the shore excursions, and even the additional packages.
Lucky for you, we’ve put together a handy guide to ensure your first cruise goes without any hiccups.
As the cruise industry has grown, so have the offerings. There is something to suit everyone’s taste – whether you’re travelling with the kids, grandma, and grandpa, if you’re on a budget, or if you want something super opulent.
Make sure you do your research – whether it be speaking to friends or family members who have cruised or speaking to a travel agent to navigate through the options.
When first time cruisers do their research, make sure you understand the demographics of each cruise line, during the year as well as the itinerary. It comes as no surprise that, for obvious reasons, during the school holidays, you’ll find more kids sailing.
If you are looking for a destination-specific cruise, like if you want to explore the Arctic or Antarctica, then it is also important to pick the right cruise line for your budget, and the differences between each line.
But perhaps if seasickness and the number of people are issues, consider taking a river cruise where you are always close to land and these ships won’t have more than 180 people onboard.
Find out more information in our guide to first-time cruisers.
First Time Cruisers Tips
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Best advice for cruise passengers with mobility issues
However, with careful planning and by taking proactive steps, those managing mobility restrictions – and their family or friends – can all enjoy cruise travel safely and conveniently.
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Best cruise lines for mobility-restricted cruisers
Cruise Passenger spotlights best cruise lines for mobility-restricted travellers.
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How to save hundreds in US$ conversion rates before you step onboard
Most cruise lines charge onboard spend in USD and the weak Australian dollar means poor conversion rates.
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Recommended Cruise Lines for First-Time Cruisers
Read Reviews from First-Time Cruisers
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Aurora Expedition cruise review
I loved the fairly small and uncrowded nature of the ship. It was a long TransPacific cruise and we seemed to not have any noisy kids or distractions. The cabin was roomy with a nice balcony.
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Silver Discoverer Kimberley cruise review
Service aboard the Silver Discoverer is exceptional and very personalised but not pretentious. The ship and the cabin appointed was very nice considering it is an expedition ship.
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Excellent service aboard the Diamond Princess
Service aboard the Diamond Princess was excellent. I always felt special and cared for. Ship was huge with many activities to suite people’s interests.
