Cruise holidays have seen a huge surge in popularity in recent years, as cruise lines expand with more variety and a trip for every budget. Cruise Trade News report that 10% of holidays last year were cruises, highlighting a large shift in public opinion. Offering a great compromise between a luxury retreat and international sightseeing, it’s easy to see why 4 in 10 Brits are looking to try a Cruise holiday. If you’re one of them, be sure to avoid these rookie mistakes before you board.
Book Travel Insurance And Visas
If your cruise is all-inclusive, it’s easy to forget any minor details – so insurance shouldn’t be one of them. Be sure to buy your travel insurance to cover sea travel and all the countries you will be visiting, with extras if you will be doing any adventure sports. As with any other international holiday, you should renew your passport well in time for your departure date, and apply for any visas. While travel for Brits within the EU is fairly easy, if you are off to the US, Australia, New Zealand, or the Caribbean, be sure to check the visa requirements and get it sorted early – the advisors at Planet Cruise can advise you if you’re unsure when booking your trip.
Check The Weather Report
If you’re looking for the cheaper deals to sunny spots like the Caribbean or South East Asia, be sure to check the weather forecast before you pack your suitcase. Travel to these destinations is cheaper during the start and end of Hurricane season, so while you’ll still have some warm, sunny weather, it pays to pack a raincoat and wellies for the more drizzly days. Of course, if you’re travelling in the height of summer, be sure that you pack appropriately as well, with plenty of sunscreen and cover-ups for the scorching midday sun.
Book Your Meals And Tours
The first thing to do when you book your cruise is to ask about how inclusive it is – you may have self-catering options on board, so ask about this in advance. For particularly busy cruises, you might need to pre-book your inclusive breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so do this and turn up on time so you don’t go hungry! It also pays to ask about amenities, lest you be caught short of shower gel. While your cruise director may offer tours during port excursions, ask about these – if you don’t like the sound of them, you may prefer to explore these destinations to your own tastes.
