If you’re planning your very first cruise holiday, you’re in for a travel experience unlike any other. Picture this: waking up to a new destination every day, enjoying endless ocean views, indulging in gourmet meals, world-class entertainment, and all the comforts of a floating luxury resort.
But let’s admit it—if you’re a cruise first-timer, the planning process can feel confusing. Which cruise line is right for you? What’s included in the fare? How do you choose the best itinerary?
Before you dive in and book your dream vacation at sea, here are 5 essential cruise tips for first-time cruisers that will help you make smarter choices and enjoy a seamless cruise experience.
When choosing your cruise holiday, don’t just focus on where the ship is going—focus on what the ship offers. Think of the cruise ship as a destination in itself. With features like waterslides, Go Karting, surf parks, Michelin-style dining, Broadway shows, spas, and more, your onboard experience can define your holiday. Always select a ship that matches your personality, travel style, and interests.
Tip: Research the cruise line's fleet and amenities. Whether you're a family, a couple, or a solo traveller, there's a perfect ship for your vibe.
First-time cruisers need to be cautious while zeroing in on a cruise journey. Enquire in detail about the various destinations included in the journey and the time allowed on shore. Not all itineraries are created equal. Some offer more time at sea (perfect for ship lovers), while others allow you to explore more ports. Ask the right questions - How much time do you get at each port? Are shore excursions included or chargeable? Is there flexibility for exploration?
Pro tip: Check for overnights or longer port calls if you love deep cultural immersion.
Cruising is often thought to be expensive—but here’s the truth: a cruise holiday can be up to 30% cheaper than a land vacation when you factor in everything included. Your fare typically covers accommodation, all meals, shows, onboard activities, and access to world-class amenities.
What makes cruising even better are bundled deals that include Wi-Fi, drinks, and gratuities. Look out for early bird offers, flash sales, and off-season discounts to stretch your budget further.
Cruises are no longer luxury getaways just for the elite—they’re smart, value-driven holidays for anyone who loves easy, immersive travel.
If you’re cruising with kids, make sure your ship is kid-approved. From kids’ clubs and water parks to child-friendly menus and activity zones and family shows. There are cruises built just for families. Some cruises even have babysitting services so parents can enjoy some downtime too.
Be sure to check the best seasons to cruise different regions. Often shore excursions are shortened due to heavy rain, or even entire towns remain shut due to adverse climatic conditions. Therefore, considering the weather is extremely important to make an itinerary that guarantees maximum fun during your cruising holiday. For instance, Europe is great between May and September, while Southeast Asia is perfect in winter.
Planning your first cruise can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. At Int2Cruises, Asia’s cruise-first online travel brand, we simplify everything for you—from choosing the right ship to bundling flights, hotels, shore excursions, visas, and even cruise insurance.
Whether it’s a romantic Mediterranean escape, an island-hopping Asian getaway, or an expedition cruise to the Arctic, we help you book smarter and cruise better.
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