First Time Cruiser
As a first time cruiser, you have probably already heard many great things people have to say about the all-inclusive pleasures of a cruise vacation. More and more people are experiencing the great benefits of setting sail priceless cruise vacations. Everyone from couples, honeymooners, singles, and groups of friends have something to gain from a cruising adventure.
The price of your ticket includes all of your meals and in-between snacks on-board, your stateroom, activities, parties and entertainment; plus, an exciting voyage to some of the most enchanting and culturally-enriching places in the world.
You'll find that a cruise ship is a floating resort, with all the things a fine resort has to offer and more! You'll meet new friends who share the same tastes and interests as you.
The hassles of an ordinary vacation are completely eliminated. A cruise is one convenient package. You don't have to worry about making dinner or nightclub reservations, running to make flight connections as you travel from one destination to another, or packing and unpacking.
You can lie back and be completely pampered. Or, go non-stop. Dine like never before. Enjoy one great show after another. Let your cares float away!
It's no wonder that more people are taking cruise vacations than ever before. And once they get a taste of cruising, they come back for more, again and again.
What is included on most ships:
Stateroom or suite accommodations
Gourmet dining
Supervised kids' programs
Vegas and Broadway-style shows
Entry to nightclubs, piano bars & more
Activities such as yoga & basketball
Gym, pool & hot tubs
What is not included:
Gratuities (Exception: Silversea & Seabourn)
Spa treatments
Alcoholic beverages (Exception: Silversea, Regent Seven Seas & Seabourn)
Packing for a Cruise
Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. At the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a dinner jacket or gown.
Many cruise lines now feature a more relaxed and casual approach to dress throughout the cruise -- while on others, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun. But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions. Plus, many ships offer tuxedo rental services.
Cruise Ship Dining
Everything you've heard about cruise ship dining is true. At each meal, you'll find a varied selection of entrees, appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables, and desserts. Each day the selection will be different. If you've ever wanted to experiment with a cuisine or try a dish, you can feel free to order more than one entrée or appetizer. Cruise line also offer choices such as low-cal, spa, vegetarian or fitness menu selections that are just as tempting as the regular menu. Best of all, the one thing you'll never see on a cruise ship menu is a price because your meals are included!
Tipping on a Cruise
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about $3.00 per person per day for your cabin steward and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion.
