Cruise itineraries – how to figure out where you want to go
So, you have decided to take your family on a cruise. There are so many choices and options, it can easily be overwhelming. Having a solid game plan in place can make all the difference in the world and there are many elements that you should consider when choosing the cruise that is best for your family. One of the most important elements is choosing where you want to cruise. In other words, what itinerary are you looking for? Frequently, this decision should be made even before you consider your cruise line, cruise ship, departure port, and even the time of year you hope to cruise. Let us look at some key things to consider when choosing your perfect itinerary.
What do you want to see
The obvious answer is everything, but that is not possible. Perhaps you are looking for beautiful beaches and relaxation which will eliminate Alaska. However, if you are looking for wildlife and dramatic scenery, Alaska might be a great option. Maybe history, culture and sightseeing are your passion. In that case, the best option might be an international itinerary. If you are able and comfortable with traveling internationally, this opens an enormous number of opportunities. When many folks think of cruising, they picture warm tropical climates. This may be trivial but even asking yourself if you are okay wearing a coat on your cruise can be an important consideration.
Decide how important the ports are
When considering a cruise vacation, most families look at it in one of three ways.
1) I want the ship to be the vacation
2) I want to explore new places every day
3) I want a balance
If you choose option number one, it probably does not make sense to fly halfway around the world to the embarkation port. If you want to explore new places every day, you are likely to look at a cruise longer in duration. Answering this question can certainly play a large factor when considering your ultimate cruise line and cruise ship. Do the research to determine which ships fill most of your family’s bucket list.
How much adventure are you looking for
How adventurous is your family? If you are looking for chill and relaxation, the ports of call are not as critical. If you are looking for scuba diving, snorkeling, ziplining, and nature experiences, then you should consider the ports that offer these options. The port of call may sound incredible, but it is most important to understand what you will be able to see at that port of call. Every port has multiple experiences to choose from. Before choosing your desired itinerary, do some research to see what options are available at each port of call. Every major cruise website contains this important information.
Consider the time of year
Are you limited to a certain time of year? If so, this may limit or narrow down your options. As an example, most cruise lines do not offer Alaska cruises in the winter months. I know I am stating the obvious, but good weather is always an important criterion. Do research to understand the typical weather patterns in the destinations you are considering during your proposed travel times.
How long are you hoping to sail
Certainly, the longer your cruise, the more time you will have to stop at multiple ports of call. Many cruises have “sea days” which means you will not visit any ports but there are options where you can visit a port every day. Think about the first and last days. A cruise might look fantastic until you realize that you are flying across country for a 5-night cruise. Getting to and from your residence to your cruise starting and ending point can add a considerable expense to your cruise experience, so embarkation and debarkation ports should always be a variable to consider.
Once you land on a desired itinerary you can then compare options between the various cruise lines. Not every cruise line may offer the itinerary you are looking for and certainly some cruise lines have a better reputation than others for certain itineraries. As an example, Princess Cruises is often recognized as one of the best Alaska cruise options.
In summary, doing your research and adequately answering this question can make or break your cruising experience. And do not forget, your Goofy Getaways travel advisor can provide the information needed for your family to make this “itinerary” decision.
If this information helped you want to sail away on your next cruise, click the link. below to get connected with an advisor.
