THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A CRUISE SHIP - PART ONE

When choosing a cruise ship, many different factors come into play.
For one thing, while cruises are much more affordable than in the past,
they still cost significant money.  Therefore, you want to ensure you
get the best cruise for your specific budget.  Second, you want to choose
a cruise that meets your needs.  If you want to visit a warm destination
where you can shop til you drop, then you want the Caribbean or Bahamas.
However, if you want a quiet cruise, some place where you can enjoy
nature and beauty, then an Alaskan cruise might be the better choice.

Once you have determined your wants and needs, go beyond the obvious to
find out more.  For instance, ask about the age of the ship, as well as the
weight and capacity.  Although you might not have as many options, try to
stick with cruise ships that are no more than two years old.  The reason
this is important is that the newer cruise ships have the best amenities
and upgrades.  Now, some of the older ships such as Carnival Cruise
Line's 'Paradise' are nice but you find the decor, menus, and even
activities to be outdated.

You should also ask about the ships demographics.  In this case, some
cruise ships will only go out for seven days.  Typically, the shorter
cruises appeal to a younger crowed.  Therefore, if you want a quieter,
more mature passenger list, the longer cruises would provide a better
opportunity.  In addition, some cruise lines are naturally more
appealing to a younger crowed as well as families with small children
simply based on theme and price.  Take Disney Cruise Lines as an example,
while this is an excellent choice, it may not be the right choice for
seniors looking for peaceful time.

For price, you might be able to save a little money by booking at the last
minute.  Many top cruise lines have open rooms toward departure and are
willing to offer nice discounts.  Since the suites are generally the
most expensive, they are usually the last to fill up.  That means if a
cruise ship has a suite open days before the ship sets sail, they would
rather book the suite at a reduced cost and make some money off it rather
than letting it go empty.  You can also save money by booking the same
cruise line.  If you sailed last year, then try to go with the same company
as they offer repeat business price reductions.

Ask about the price of excursions.  The problem is that for many cruise
ships, the price for ports of call can be outrageous.  If this is the case,
you can always book tours and seminars through locals for a fraction of
the cost.  In fact, going this route often provides you some unique
opportunities of seeing things you might have missed with a ships
scheduled excursion.  Additionally, you might check out eBay for
discount coupons.  It is common to find travel agents, cruise ships, and
even individuals selling cabins, airfare, and other things for a
cruise for near to nothing.  Obviously, you want to check out the
persons feedback and have the chance to check things out before
paying.

Finally, most cruise lines include gratuity in the bill so you do not
have to worry about remembering to leave a tip.  The problem is that these
tips can be upwards of $10 for a simple service.  The key is to remember
that these tips are optional.  That means you have both the option and
right to request the amount of tip be more or less.  In fact, many cruise
lines will simply let you pay what you want, removing the built-in
gratuity altogether.