Frequently Asked Questions
Some questions are asked more frequently than others, so I compiled a list of the ones I get the most. Hope these help you!
The first decision is which cruise line is best for you, then what type of cabin you prefer and is within your budget. Here’s a post about what to do before booking a cruise that might help.
There are several things you need to do, so I wrote a post about what to do after booking a cruise. Be sure to check it out.
Yes, especially for the medical insurance, medical evacuation, and travel interruption assistance. Here’s why.
You can win one playing Bingo onboard, or Deal or No Deal. But most people who get free cruises play in the casino (and they’re not totally free). If you’re going to play, be sure to get a casino loyalty card, and only play as much as you can afford to lose. Don’t play to try to get a free cruise; you may end up losing more than you would have paid for the cruise outright.
I write about what I know, and so far we’ve cruised on Celebrity and Norwegian and been happy with them. We’re planning to branch out in the next year or so and try other cruise lines, so stay tuned.
If I’m not satisfied with the excursions the cruise line offers, I’ll check with Viator. I’ve used them before and find them reliable.
One day prior, at a minimum, in case of flight delays. If you’re flying more than a few hours to reach the port and changing planes, I’d suggest you travel two or more days early. Bonus: You get to explore yet another port while you’re there.
I have several posts about creating capsule wardrobes for your cruise. They focus on casual and dressy casual, which is the dress code for both Celebrity and Norwegian.
That depends on how many drinks per day you plan to drink and the average cost of those drinks, compared to the cost per day of the beverage package. If the price for the beverage package is more, then you should probably forgo the beverage package and pay as you go.
My rule of thumb is the number of days of the cruise divided by two. So, for a seven-day cruise, no more than four pairs of shoes. At a minimum, you need a comfortable pair of closed-toe walking shoes, a comfortable pair of sandals (if you’re cruising during warm weather), and a pair of dressier shoes for evening.
