Cruising FAQ

First time cruiser? Experienced mariner? Find out our answers to a variety of frequently asked questions from beginner and experienced cruisers. If your question is not answered, Email us. A CLIA certifed cruise counselor will respond - no purchase necessary! We look forward to helping you book your next cruise.
There are a number of other things to consider when planning your cruise. We answer the following questions below:
How do I get the most value for my money?
What ship matches my particular lifestyle?
How you I get to the ship and back home again?
Where to cruise?
When to cruise?
What are port taxes and why are they different for each cruise line?
How do I get the most value for my money?
Probably the most "frequent" of any question we're asked. The answer is simple -- book early and often.
Book early - the best rates, along with best cabin selection, dining room seating, transportation options to and from the cruise are found when you make your booking as far in advance as possible. Many cruise lines will accept your reservation 18 months, or more, before the sailing date. The days of "last minute specials" and give away prices to fill unsold berths close to sailing are long gone.
Book often - the cruise lines love those folks who are their past passengers and often provide booking incentives for returning cruisers. Once you take your first cruise you will be identified as a member of that line's past passenger "club". These incentives range from special pricing for returning passengers to cabin upgrades, confirmed dining and a variety of other value added benefits. Always let your Cruise Center counselor know which cruises you've taken in the past.
What ship matches my particular lifestyle?
Cruisers come in all ages and in all situations. The cruise lines appreciate the variety of their passenger's life styles and provide a cruise and price to match. There special fares for Families, Seniors, Singles, and Groups. Once we know more about your specific requirements, we can find a cruise that's right for you!
How you I get to the ship and back home again?
During the 1980's the cruise industry realized the need to provide a way for people to get to their ships. Cruising as a popular vacation choice was still a new idea and the air/sea package from the cruise line proved to be just what the public needed to get on board. The air/sea price was often advertised as including "free" air from your home city to the ship. Today many lines till offer air, but will quote the price separately from the cabin price since there are so many other ways to buy your air; with frequent flyer miles, upgrade coupons, during air fare "wars", and so on. Your Cruise Center counselor will gladly discuss these options with you so you get the "deal" that's best for you.
Where to cruise?
Every year the cruise lines offer new ports of call. Cruise Center counselors can tailor recommendations according to your travel desires.
When to cruise?
This is a crucial question to ask. Different seasons can mean different itineraries and prices. Once we identify your destination area, we can tell you the best time to travel.
What are port taxes and why are they different for each cruise line?
The cruise lines must pay various fees and taxes to each local government where they stop. In addition to these costs, there are charges assessed by the local port authority for refuse collection, fresh water service, longshoreman, etc.
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