So, you’ve decided you’re ready to take your first cruise.
Congratulations!
But then you start looking.
And suddenly you’re faced with dozens of cruise lines, hundreds of ships, countless itineraries, different cabin categories, specialty dining, drink packages, excursions, Wi-Fi packages, embarkation ports and a whole vocabulary you may have never encountered before.
Inside cabin? Oceanview? Balcony? Suite?
Eastern Caribbean or Western Caribbean?
Port-intensive or sea days?
Mainstream or luxury?
And perhaps the biggest question of all:
How do you know which cruise is actually right for you?
The good news is that choosing your first cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
In fact, the best first cruise isn’t necessarily the biggest ship, the cheapest fare or the itinerary with the most ports.
It’s the cruise that matches the way you want to travel.
At Destinations Travel, we believe cruise planning should begin with you, not with a particular ship or promotional fare. Your ideal cruise depends on your travel style, budget, interests, who you’re traveling with and what you want to experience.
Here’s how to narrow down your choices and choose a cruise you’ll love.
1. Start With the Vacation You Want, Not the Cruise Line
One of the biggest mistakes first-time cruisers make is beginning their research by asking:
“What’s the best cruise line?”
There’s really no single answer.
A cruise line that is perfect for one traveler might be completely wrong for another.
Instead, start by asking:
- Do I want relaxation or nonstop activities?
- Do I want nightlife?
- Do I want outstanding food and wine?
- Do I want beautiful scenery?
- Do I want lots of entertainment?
- Do I want a quiet, sophisticated atmosphere?
- Do I want family-friendly activities?
- Do I want an adults-focused experience?
- Do I want to visit several destinations?
- Do I care more about the ship or the ports?
- Do I want a casual vacation or something more upscale?
Cruise lines have increasingly developed distinct personalities and experiences, and even ships within the same cruise line can feel very different depending on their age, size, itinerary and onboard offerings.
The right cruise is the one that matches your vacation personality.
2. Decide Where You Want to Go
Once you’ve thought about your travel style, start thinking about the destination.
For many first-time cruisers, the Caribbean and Bahamas are natural starting points because they offer relatively short itineraries, warm weather, beautiful beaches and a wide variety of ships and departure ports.
But you certainly aren’t limited to the Caribbean.
Some popular cruise destinations include:
Caribbean
Great for travelers who want:
- Beaches
- Warm weather
- Relaxation
- Water activities
- Shopping
- Island culture
- A relatively easy first cruise experience
Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean itineraries can offer very different experiences.
An Eastern Caribbean itinerary might include destinations such as St. Thomas, St. Maarten or Puerto Rico.
A Western Caribbean itinerary may focus more on destinations such as Jamaica, Grand Cayman, Belize or Mexico.
Southern Caribbean itineraries can take you farther south to destinations such as Barbados, St. Lucia, Grenada or Martinique.
Alaska
Alaska can be an incredible first cruise for travelers who are more interested in scenery and wildlife than tropical beaches.
Think:
- Glaciers
- Mountains
- Whales
- Bald eagles
- Historic towns
- Wildlife viewing
- National parks
- Dramatic scenery
Alaska cruises can also be paired with land travel, allowing you to experience more of the destination beyond the ports.
Europe
European cruises are particularly appealing if your dream vacation involves seeing multiple cities and countries without unpacking every few days.
Depending on your itinerary, you could visit destinations such as:
- Italy
- Greece
- Croatia
- Spain
- France
- Portugal
- Turkey
- Montenegro
A Mediterranean cruise can be an excellent way to get an introduction to Europe before deciding which destinations you’d like to return to for a longer land vacation.
Bermuda & The Bahamas
If you’re nervous about committing to a longer cruise, a shorter sailing can be a comfortable introduction to cruising.
These itineraries can provide a taste of the cruise experience without requiring a two-week vacation.
Hawaii
Hawaii cruises offer a unique advantage: you can visit multiple Hawaiian islands while unpacking just once.
For travelers who want to see more than one island, this can be an appealing alternative to changing hotels and arranging inter-island transportation.
3. Decide How Long Your First Cruise Should Be
There is no magic number of nights that works for everyone.
However, your first cruise should fit comfortably into your vacation schedule.
Short cruises can be appealing because they require less vacation time and can be a way to test whether cruising is right for you.
Longer cruises give you more time to settle into the ship and experience multiple destinations.
Consider:
3–4 nights:
A quick introduction to cruising, but the experience can feel fast-paced.
5–7 nights:
A popular length for a first cruise and enough time to experience both the ship and several ports.
8–10 nights:
More time to relax and potentially visit a wider variety of destinations.
10+ nights:
Ideal for travelers who want a more immersive experience and have more vacation time available.
Don’t assume shorter automatically means better for a first cruise.
If you have a week available, a seven-night cruise can actually give you a better opportunity to understand what cruising is all about.
4. Choose Between a Large Ship and a Smaller Ship
Ship size can dramatically affect your experience.
Large Ships
Large ships can offer an incredible number of activities and entertainment options.
Depending on the ship, you might find:
- Multiple pools
- Waterslides
- Broadway-style entertainment
- Comedy clubs
- Specialty restaurants
- Casinos
- Kids’ clubs
- Fitness centers
- Spas
- Shopping
- Live music
- Sports activities
- Specialty attractions
If you like having lots of choices and want the ship itself to be part of your vacation, a larger ship may be a great fit.
Smaller Ships
Smaller ships can offer a more intimate atmosphere.
They may appeal to travelers who prefer:
- Fewer crowds
- A quieter environment
- Personalized service
- More destination-focused experiences
- Smaller ports
- A more relaxed atmosphere
Neither is inherently better.
It’s about what you want your vacation to feel like.
5. Think About the Cruise Line’s Personality
This is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Cruise lines can differ significantly in:
- Atmosphere
- Dining
- Entertainment
- Service style
- Pricing
- Included amenities
- Dress expectations
- Family programming
- Adult-focused experiences
- Luxury level
- Ship design
- Excursions
- Onboard activities
For example, one traveler might love a ship filled with activities, entertainment and families.
Another traveler might find that same environment exhausting.
Someone else might prefer a quieter, upscale ship where the focus is on food, service and destination experiences.
There is no universally “best” cruise line.
There is only the best cruise line for you.
6. Don’t Choose Your Cruise Based on Price Alone
This is a big one.
The advertised cruise fare is not necessarily the total cost of your vacation.
When comparing cruises, look beyond the base fare.
Consider:
- Taxes and fees
- Gratuities
- Airfare
- Hotel stays before or after the cruise
- Transportation to the port
- Shore excursions
- Specialty dining
- Beverage packages
- Wi-Fi
- Spa treatments
- Casino spending
- Shopping
- Travel protection
- Transfers
- Flights
- Parking
Two cruises that appear to have similar fares may have very different total vacation costs.
And sometimes a cruise with a higher initial fare may actually provide greater value because more amenities are included.
Compare the overall vacation experience, not just the advertised price.
7. Choose the Right Cabin
Your cabin is another decision that deserves more thought than simply choosing the least expensive option.
Cruise cabins generally fall into several broad categories.
Inside Cabin
No exterior window.
Best for: Travelers who don’t plan to spend much time in their cabin and would rather spend their budget elsewhere.
Oceanview Cabin
Includes a window or porthole.
Best for: Travelers who want natural light and an ocean view without paying for a balcony.
Balcony Cabin
Includes a private outdoor space.
Best for: Travelers who enjoy morning coffee outdoors, watching the scenery or having private outdoor space.
Suite
Provides significantly more space and may include additional amenities or privileges depending on the cruise line.
Best for: Travelers who prioritize space, comfort, service and enhanced amenities.
There is no universally correct cabin.
Your choice should depend on your budget, itinerary, how much time you expect to spend in your room and your personal preferences. Cabin location can also matter, particularly if you’re concerned about motion or want to be close to specific areas of the ship.
One important tip: Don’t automatically book the cheapest cabin.
Your cabin is part of the experience, and sometimes spending a little more can make a significant difference in your enjoyment.
8. Consider Where Your Cabin Is Located
Once you’ve decided on your cabin category, you still have another decision:
Where on the ship should your cabin be?
Ships are large.
And cabin location can affect your experience.
If you’re concerned about motion, you may want to discuss cabins located closer to the middle of the ship and on lower decks.
If you want easy access to the pool, you may prefer to be closer to the upper decks.
If you’re traveling with children or family members, connecting cabins may be important.
If you’re a light sleeper, you’ll want to pay attention to what’s above, below and beside your cabin.
Your travel advisor can help you look beyond the cabin category and evaluate the actual location.
9. Think About How Many Sea Days You Want
This is something first-time cruisers often overlook.
Some itineraries are packed with ports.
Others include several days at sea.
Neither is necessarily better.
Port-Intensive Cruise
You may wake up somewhere new almost every morning.
Great for travelers who want to:
- Explore
- Sightsee
- Shop
- Experience different cultures
- Visit multiple destinations
More Sea Days
You’ll have more time to enjoy the ship.
Great for travelers who want to:
- Relax
- Use the spa
- Lounge by the pool
- Attend onboard activities
- Enjoy the restaurants
- Sleep in
- Simply disconnect
Ask yourself:
If the ship stopped at no port tomorrow, would I still be happy spending the day onboard?
If your answer is yes, you’ll probably enjoy an itinerary with more sea days.
10. Think About the Embarkation Port
Where your cruise begins matters.
You may be able to drive to your cruise port, or you may need to fly.
A drive-to cruise can eliminate airfare and make the beginning of your vacation simpler.
Flying gives you access to a much wider variety of destinations, but adds airfare, luggage considerations and additional travel logistics.
For your first cruise, consider whether you want to:
Drive to the port
or
Fly to the port and potentially spend the night before your cruise.
If you’re flying, we generally recommend building in extra time rather than scheduling your arrival so close to embarkation that a delayed flight could jeopardize your cruise.
For an important vacation, getting there early is usually worth the extra peace of mind.
11. Don’t Forget About the Ports
A cruise isn’t just about the ship.
You’re also choosing the destinations you’ll visit.
Before booking, look at each port and ask:
Would I actually enjoy spending a day here?
Research:
- What can you do?
- How far is the port from the main attractions?
- Are excursions available?
- Is the destination walkable?
- What kind of activities are offered?
- How long will the ship be in port?
- Is there anything you absolutely want to see?
I recommend researching ports before sailing because the cruise line’s information may not give you everything you need to decide how you want to spend your limited time ashore.
Remember: a beautiful itinerary on paper doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right itinerary for you.
12. Decide How Much Planning You Want to Do Yourself
This is where a travel advisor can make a tremendous difference.
You can absolutely spend hours comparing:
- Cruise lines
- Ships
- Deck plans
- Cabins
- Dining
- Excursions
- Ports
- Promotions
- Packages
- Transfers
- Flights
- Hotels
- Travel protection
Or you can tell a travel advisor what you’re looking for and have someone help narrow the choices.
According to Cruise Lines International Association, 79% of cruise travelers surveyed said travel agents have a meaningful impact on their decision to cruise. CLIA also notes that advisors can help match travelers with the right cruise line, itinerary, ship and cabin.
That’s particularly valuable when you’re booking your first cruise because you don’t necessarily know which questions you should be asking yet.
13. Ask Yourself These 10 Questions Before Booking
Before you put down a deposit, answer these questions:
1. Who am I traveling with?
A cruise for a couple may look very different from a multigenerational family cruise.
2. What do I want to do?
Relax? Explore? Eat? Sightsee? Party? Experience nature?
3. Where do I want to go?
Caribbean? Alaska? Europe? Bahamas? Hawaii?
4. How much time do I have?
A long weekend? One week? Two weeks?
5. How much do I want to spend?
Remember to consider the complete vacation cost.
6. Do I want a big ship or a smaller ship?
Think about the atmosphere you prefer.
7. How important is my cabin?
Would an inside cabin be fine, or would you really enjoy having a balcony?
8. How many ports do I want?
Do you want to explore every day or have time to enjoy the ship?
9. What type of onboard experience sounds appealing?
Casual and energetic? Relaxed and upscale? Family-focused? Adults-oriented?
10. What am I worried about?
Seasickness? Getting bored? Feeling trapped? Missing the ship? Choosing the wrong cabin?
Tell your travel advisor your concerns.
There is a solution to many of the worries first-time cruisers have.
The Best First Cruise Isn’t the Same for Everyone
This is probably the most important thing to remember.
Your friend may swear that a particular cruise line is the best.
Your neighbor may tell you that you absolutely need a balcony.
Someone online may insist that seven nights is the perfect length.
Another traveler may tell you that their favorite ship is the only one worth booking.
But your perfect cruise could be completely different.
The right cruise depends on your vacation style.
And that’s exactly why cruise planning should start with a conversation rather than a search box.
What We Ask Our Cruise Clients
At Destinations Travel, we don’t believe in simply handing you a list of cruise options and telling you to pick one.
We want to understand you.
We’ll talk about:
- Where you want to go
- Who you’re traveling with
- Your travel style
- What you want to experience
- Your ideal vacation pace
- Your budget
- Your cabin preferences
- Your dining preferences
- Activities you enjoy
- Activities you don’t enjoy
- How much planning you want to do
- Any concerns you have about cruising
Then we can narrow down the possibilities.
Because there are a lot of cruises out there.
You don’t need to research every one of them.
You need to find the right one for you.
Ready to Take Your First Cruise?
If you’ve been thinking about taking your first cruise but don’t know where to start, we’d love to help.
At Destinations Travel, we specialize in cruises and personalized vacation planning. Our goal isn’t simply to find you a cruise.
It’s to find the cruise that fits you.
From choosing the destination and cruise line to selecting the right ship, itinerary and cabin, we’ll help you navigate the decisions so you can feel confident about your vacation.
And because your vacation doesn’t end when you make the reservation, we’re here to help you prepare for the journey from beginning to end.
Your first cruise should be exciting, not overwhelming.
Let’s find the cruise that’s right for you.
Ready to start planning?
Contact Destinations Travel to begin planning your cruise →
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Your First Cruise
What is the best cruise for a first-time cruiser?
There isn’t one cruise that is best for everyone. A first-time cruiser should choose a cruise based on their preferred destination, vacation style, budget, ship size, itinerary and onboard experience. For many travelers, a 5–7 night Caribbean or Bahamas cruise can be a comfortable introduction to cruising, but other destinations may be a better fit depending on your interests.
How many days should my first cruise be?
A 5–7 night cruise is often a good starting point because it gives you enough time to experience the ship, visit several destinations and settle into the rhythm of cruising without requiring an especially long vacation.
Is a balcony worth it on a cruise?
It depends on how you use your cabin and how much you value private outdoor space. A balcony can be especially appealing on scenic itineraries such as Alaska, but an inside or oceanview cabin may make more sense if you plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship and destinations.
What is the best cruise line for first-time cruisers?
The best cruise line depends on your travel style. Cruise lines differ in atmosphere, dining, entertainment, activities, service and pricing. Rather than choosing a cruise line based solely on popularity, choose one that matches the experience you want.
Should I use a travel advisor for my first cruise?
A travel advisor can help you compare cruise lines, ships, itineraries, cabins and travel logistics based on your preferences. This can be particularly helpful for first-time cruisers who aren’t familiar with the differences between cruise lines and ships.
Should I arrive at the cruise port the day before?
If you’re flying to the embarkation port, arriving the day before can provide an important buffer against flight delays and other travel disruptions. It also gives you the opportunity to begin your vacation without rushing to the ship.
What should I look for when choosing a cruise itinerary?
Look at the destinations, number of sea days, length of the cruise, season, embarkation port, time in each destination and activities available in each port. The itinerary should match what you actually want to do on vacation.
Loooking for more inspiration? Check out a couple additional articles: