First Timer Warning! Hey newbie cruisers, I’m talking to you!

So you’ve always wanted to take a cruise vacation and now you’ve finally found a cheap cruise deal. Well, that’s awesome and you are gonna love it, but let me offer you just a few tips to help you avoid the most common rookie cruiser mistakes! You see, cheap cruise deals are just not quite like other types of travel. Your time is more regimented and you are often confined to the boat. I will show you how to cruise like a seasoned veteran and get the maximum enjoyment out of your voyage.

Book It Early

They say the early-bird gets the worm and specialty cruise events are no exception to that tried and true rule. Popular shore excursions will always sell out within a few hours of leaving port. You have the option to book online from home and avoid the crowds entirely, with unlimited research sources. If you can’t book online, then be sure to do it first thing when you get onboard the boat. Same goes for spa and salon treatments. If you have your heart set on a massage, then book it asap. Days at sea are most popular, but veteran cruisers know that spa services are discounted when the boat is in port.

Over Planning

Many people have a tendency to want to “do it all” on their first cheap cruise deal. There is so much to do onboard and in port, it is tempting to plan packed days, nights, and just plain overdo it. Be sure to allow for some downtime to recharge between events and get a reasonable amount of sleep. Relax – it’s a vacation!

Mind Your Body

Cruises are about indulgence and if you’ve not been on one before, you may not realize that you need to pace yourself. Rich food, alcohol, gambling, late nights partying, and too much sun can easily take your toll. You don’t want to find yourself watching from the sidelines due to a flu, hangover, sunstroke, or just general discomfort. Be sure to drink plenty of water, sleep well, and consider a quick work-out to get your body right. Even if you got a spectacular cheap cruise deal, it won’t be a deal at all if you get sick.

Timing is Everything

Cheap cruise deals are even more seasonal than other types of travel. Of course you want to catch the best weather and suit your personal schedule, but have you considered…. Cheap cruise deals in spring are the most popular (as well as most expensive), and include lots of spring break travelers, kids, and families. Cheap cruise deals on fall Caribbean routes run the risk of bad weather, altered itineraries, and even last-minute cancellations due to hurricanes.

Cabin Fever

You can expect an undesirable cabin on most cheap cruise deals. An inside cabin with no windows is almost a certainty, and you may even find yourself near the noisy engine room, or towards the end of the boat where the ride is rough. Upgrades to a better room may not be too expensive and it never hurts to ask before you book your cheap cruise deal.

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