Those who have yet to take a cruise probably think people are stretching the truth when they rave about their latest cruise. Rather than appear to be bragging, friends often leave out some of the best activities experienced on land and sea.There are a number of reasons that cruises are such a popular method of travel. Start with a short dinner cruise or daytrip around the bay. Others take advantage of the chance to sail to the Mediterranean or Caribbean. No matter which one fits the schedule, there is a cruise for every person. 

There is no set best time to book a cruise although many factors can affect a decision.Just about any event can affect the event of high season, a time when the majority of people desire to travel to a certain area.That can range from theme parks during spring vacation to sports events. If the time and location are perfect, book a cruise to that destination early. When booking early, especially for a smaller ship, the choice of cabin and mealtime are much better.Confirm the booking and pay before the cruise.Special incentives encourage those with payment plans to complete purchase quickly to get the benefits.

Offseason lives up to its name and is full of surprises. Find out what creates offseason in the areas you want to visit.The crowds usually thin out, leaving more of a local flavor than experienced during the tourist season. Some people enjoy traveling by ship so much that they make it their preferred means of travel.It is easier to persuade people to select a plan that saves quite a bit overall.

Watch for package deals and special discounts. Senior citizens and young children often qualify for better prices, including discounts on tours.Always inquire about bargains. Hotels, airlines and agencies frequently build packages to encourage travel while providing better rates, so look around. Packages include things like airfare and a room to stay the night before departure. Perhaps a sports event will be included with the package and you can watch a soccer or baseball game.Guided tours at stopping points along the way are additional benefits you might find. Transportation and luggage transfer to the ship and back is very convenient.

Pack clothing for every occasion. Even young children have a special dressup night of their own, requiring formal clothing.Long sleeves will prevent a chill when taking the ocean air.Food is usually available twenty-four hours a day somewhere on the ship. Shuffleboard, group walks and ship tours are some of the planned activities. Passengers will delight in the enjoyment of excellent entertainment.Gambling in the casino, as well as bingo cards, require money, so plan for that expense. Carry plenty of ones, fives and tens to reward the staff for excellent service.

Transportation to the pier is varied, but convenient and plentiful. Since ocean voyages are so common, private parking areas are available for parking vehicles until passengers return. The ship cannot depart until customs checks end. Read a book or talk with a friend until your turn to clear customs.Once departure details are completed, a tug will tow the ship for departure. It is fun to stand on the deck and wave to others watching from the pier. Those on other ships return the greetings, warmly cheering voyagers on their way.

Wrapping it up, arriving at the port is convenient. The long line before boarding consists of a group of excited, friendly people ready for this latest adventure. The crew really is glad to have the guests onboard. Modern ships, less affected by waves, succeed in preventing seasick passengers.Entertainment, cozy rooms and plentiful, delicious food are in the price of the cruise. Travel on a cruise is one of the most economical ways to have the experience of a lifetime.