How to Plan a Cruise: A Beginner’s Guide to Your First Cruise Vacation

Planning your first cruise vacation? Great choice! Cruises are one of the easiest and most exciting ways to travel—unpack once, visit multiple destinations, and have all your meals and entertainment planned for you. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical escape or a bucket-list adventure, a cruise takes the stress out of vacation planning.

But let’s be honest: figuring out which cruise to take and how to plan it can feel like trying to order from a 20-page menu at a diner. Too many choices, a lot of fine print, and the nagging feeling that you might be paying for things you don’t actually need. Should you book now or wait for a sale? Do you really need a drink package? What the heck is a muster drill?

No worries—I’ve got you. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to choose the right cruise, budget smartly, pack like a pro, and avoid rookie mistakes. By the end, you’ll be booking your trip with confidence and ready to set sail like a seasoned cruiser. Let’s dive in.

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Step 1: Choosing the Right Cruise for You

So, you’ve decided to take a cruise! But before you start packing your nautical stripes and dreaming of bottomless buffets, let’s talk about how to choose the right cruise for you. Because not all cruises are the same, and picking the wrong one can mean spending seven nights trapped in a floating frat party when you were picturing a relaxing wine-and-sunset kind of trip.

Do you want a mega-ship with waterslides, Broadway shows, and enough dining options to make your head spin? Or would you rather sail on something smaller, where the focus is more on destinations than onboard thrills? Are you traveling solo, with kids, or bringing along that one friend who insists they get seasick but still wants to go? And then there’s the budget—what looks like a great deal upfront might not be so great once you factor in flights, drink packages, and all the little extras cruise lines conveniently leave out of their advertisements.

Where to Book Your Cruise

There are plenty of ways to book a cruise, and the best choice depends on how much hand-holding you want in the process.

• Trusted Cruise Booking Websites – These let you compare cruise lines, destinations, and prices all in one place. They’re great for browsing and deal-hunting. I like and use booking.com or Expedia.com
  
• Directly with the Cruise Line – If you already have a cruise line in mind, booking directly is often the easiest option. Cruise line representatives can walk you through cabins, itineraries, and current promotions—they’re surprisingly helpful, and I’ve personally used them several times. Plus, some cruise lines offer loyalty perks or price adjustments if the fare drops after you book.
  
• Feeling Overwhelmed? – If you’d rather have someone guide you through the process, check out The Travel Desk, where I offer personalized travel consultations. Whether you just need a quick Q&A or want someone to help you plan every detail, I can help you find the best cruise without the stress.
  

Smart Booking Tips

• Watch for Sales, But Don’t Panic
• Cruise lines love a good sale. One week, it’s “Buy One, Get One 50% Off”; the next, it’s “Free Drinks and WiFi.” If you see a deal, take a moment to compare what’s actually included—sometimes these promos are just shifting the cost around. Prices fluctuate all the time, so if you miss one, another will come along.
• Pay Attention to Where the Ship Departs From. A cheap cruise isn’t actually cheap if you have to spend a fortune on flights to get to the departure port.
• Before booking, check:
  • Airfare prices—sometimes a pricier cruise from a nearby port is still the better deal.
  • Discounted airfare through the cruise line—sometimes worth it, sometimes not. Always compare.
  • Alternative airports—If your cruise leaves from Miami, check flights to Fort Lauderdale, too.
• Deposits & Payment Plans—A Budgeting Lifesaver
  • Most cruises only require a deposit to book, with the final balance due 60-30 days before departure. If you’re planning a year out, this gives you time to save up without paying everything at once.

Once you’ve picked the right cruise, it’s time to talk about budgeting—because once you’re onboard, everything looks tempting, but not everything is worth your money. Let’s break down the extra costs you can actually skip.

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Step 2: Budgeting for Your Cruise (And Avoiding Extra Fees You’ll Regret Later)

Cruises have a way of making you feel like Monopoly money is in play. Once you’re onboard, everything seems tempting, exciting, and justifiable—until you get home and realize you spent $150 on souvenir cocktails and $80 on WiFi that barely loaded an email. The key to smart cruise budgeting is knowing where to spend and where to hold onto your cash.

The good news? You can absolutely have an amazing cruise without feeling nickel-and-dimed the whole time. With a little planning (and maybe a little restraint), you’ll avoid the most common money traps.

Things You’ll Want to Buy at Sea (But Might Regret Later)

Overpriced WiFi – Cruise internet is painfully slow and painfully expensive. If you don’t absolutely need it, skip it—download your shows, music, and podcasts before boarding. If you must stay connected, some cruise lines offer social media-only packages, which can be a cheaper alternative.

Souvenir Cups & Drink Packages – Those refillable drink cups might seem like a good deal, but do you really need to bring home a plastic tiki mug from every bar? The same goes for drink packages—unless you plan on having 6+ drinks a day, it may not be worth the price.

Casino & Bingo Splurges – The energy is fun, but just remember: the house always wins. If you enjoy gambling, set a budget and stick to it. Otherwise, that $50 “jackpot” you win might just be your own money making a brief return visit.

Professional Cruise Photos – Sure, the cruise photographers make you look great, but buying a full photo package can cost more than your actual flight. Instead, bring a small tripod or ask a fellow passenger to snap a pic.

Spa & Salon Services – A massage with an ocean view sounds dreamy—until you see the price. Many onboard spas charge double what you’d pay on land and will try to upsell you expensive products after. If you’re craving relaxation, check if the ship has free saunas, steam rooms, or adult-only quiet zones.

Shipboard Shopping – Cruise ships love a “limited-time” sale, but duty-free doesn’t always mean deal. If you’re tempted to splurge on jewelry or perfume, check online prices first to make sure you’re actually getting a bargain.

Where You Should Spend Money Onboard

Booking Your Next Cruise While Onboard – If you think you’ll cruise again, this is one of the best deals you can get. Many cruise lines offer reduced deposits, onboard credits, and exclusive discounts if you book another trip while still at sea. You don’t even have to pick a date—you can book an open-ended cruise and decide later.

Specialty Dining (For a Treat) – Most food onboard is included, but if your cruise has a steakhouse, sushi bar, or chef’s tasting menu, it can be worth the splurge for a special night out.

Unique Excursions – Some excursions—like private island visits, small-group cultural tours, or behind-the-scenes adventures—can be hard to book independently. If it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it might be worth spending the extra cash.

Budgeting Like a Pro

Want to map out your spending before you even set foot on the ship? Grab our free Travel Planner Download to think through the details, set a budget, and avoid surprise expenses.

A little planning now means more fun and fewer “why did I spend $12 on a latte?” moments later. Now, let’s move on to what you actually need to pack—and what can stay at home.

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Step 3: Booking Your Cruise & Planning for Time Off

Booking your cruise is the exciting part—choosing your itinerary, snagging a great deal, and officially locking in your vacation. But before you start daydreaming about ocean views, there’s one important step that could make or break your trip: getting time off work.

Unlike a last-minute weekend getaway, cruises run on fixed schedules. The ship is leaving with or without you, so getting your time-off request in early is key. Plus, the earlier you plan, the better chance you have of securing your ideal dates without scrambling for coverage.

How to Request Time Off for Your Cruise

Ask Early—Especially If Your Workplace Has Blackout Dates
Some companies have peak busy seasons where vacation requests are limited (hello, accountants in April). Check your company’s vacation policy and put in your request as soon as your cruise is booked. If your office works on a seniority system for approving PTO, the early bird gets the time off.

Frame It Professionally (While Keeping It Firm) Instead of just saying, “Hey, I’m going on a cruise, see you in two weeks!” try something more structured: “I’m planning a vacation that requires specific travel dates, and I want to make sure my workload is covered before I go. I’ll coordinate with the team to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any disruption.”

This not only shows you’re being responsible, but also makes it harder for your boss to say no.

Use PTO Strategically—And Consider a Buffer Day
If your cruise ends on a Sunday, resist the urge to book a Monday morning return flight and go straight into work. Cruising involves early morning disembarkation, airport lines, and the potential for delays. Give yourself at least a day to get home, unpack, and adjust before diving back into emails.

More Work-Life Balance Tips for Travelers

Need help with that time-off request? Read our guide on How to Ask for Time Off Without Feeling Guilty for strategies that make your boss more likely to approve your request.

Balancing Work & Travel? Check out How to Escape Work & Travel More for realistic ways to make vacations happen even with a full-time job.

Trying to Plan a Vacation Without Stress? Don’t miss 5 Tips for Planning Your First Vacation for easy ways to start organizing your trip like a pro.

Once you’ve secured your time off, it’s time to move on to the fun part—planning what you’ll actually do on the cruise. Next up: excursions, onboard activities, and how to get the most out of your time at sea.

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Step 4: Planning Shore Excursions & Onboard Activities

One of the best parts of cruising is waking up in a new destination every day—but how you spend your time in port can make or break your experience. Some cruisers book back-to-back excursions, while others prefer to wander at their own pace. Both approaches can work, but choosing wisely for each port is key.

Cruise excursions are available at an additional cost, but you also have the option to book independently or explore on your own. Here’s how to decide:

Booking Excursions: Cruise Line vs. Independent vs. Exploring on Your Own

Each approach has its benefits, and what’s best depends on the destination, your comfort level, and how much structure you want.

Option 1: Booking Excursions Through the Cruise Line

Best for: First-time visitors, destinations with tricky transportation, excursions far from the port. Why? If something goes wrong (a tour runs late, a bus breaks down), the cruise line may wait for you.

Potential downside: Cruise excursions tend to be more expensive and more crowded than independent options.

When to Choose This:

• You’re visiting a place where transportation is unreliable or distances are long.
• The excursion involves border crossings or visa requirements (like Russia or Jordan), where the cruise line handles logistics.
• You’re in a country where getting lost could cause major issues (language barriers, limited infrastructure).
• You’re cruising with a luxury or smaller cruise line like Viking, where a representative accompanies the group and stays with guests in case of delays.

Important Note: On larger cruise lines, you are still responsible for knowing the all-aboard time.  Even if your excursion is through the ship, the cruise won’t always wait for you.

Option 2: Booking Independently Through Viator or Local Operators

Best for: Experienced travelers, excursions near the port, small-group or private tours. Why? Third-party tours are often cheaper and less crowded than cruise excursions, with more variety in tour options.

Potential downside: If your tour runs late, the ship will not wait for you.

When to Choose This:

• The excursion is close to the cruise port (so you control your return time).
• You want a smaller or private group experience instead of a crowded bus tour.
• You want more unique excursion options that may not be offered by the cruise.

Pro Tip: If you book independently, give yourself extra time to return to the ship. A tour that says it ends at 4:00 PM is risky if your ship leaves at 4:30. Know the all-aboard time and plan accordingly.

Option 3: Skipping the Excursion & Exploring On Your Own

Best for: Walkable cities, beach days, or ports with easy access to attractions. Why? Wandering at your own pace is free, flexible, and lets you discover things on your own.

Potential downside: You’re responsible for making it back to the ship on time—and some towns shut down early.

When to Choose This:

• The port city is easy to navigate on foot (Old San Juan, Ketchikan, or many European cities).
• You just want to relax at a local beach or café.
• You’ve been to this destination before and already know your way around.

Important Considerations:

• Know the all-aboard time. The ship will leave without you, even if you’re just five minutes late.
• Factor in return time. However long it took you to get somewhere, double it for the trip back. Unexpected delays—traffic, long taxi wait times, or a sudden lack of Ubers—can leave you scrambling.
• Research local holidays. Some ports practically shut down for national holidays, meaning taxis and public transit may not be available when you need them.

Onboard Activities: What to Do on the Ship

Not every day is a port day, and even when you are in port, you might want to spend some time enjoying the ship itself. Cruise ships are packed with entertainment, and some of the best experiences don’t cost extra.

Things to Try Onboard:

• Live Shows & Entertainment – Broadway-style performances, comedy clubs, live music, and more.
• Pools & Sun Decks – Most ships have multiple pools, hot tubs, and loungers for sea days.
• Fitness & Wellness – Gyms, yoga classes, and (free!) running tracks if you want to stay active.
• Trivia & Game Shows – Great for groups or meeting other cruisers.
• Adult-Only Retreat Areas – Many ships have quiet zones with no kids allowed—perfect for relaxing.

Bottom Line: Whether you book an excursion, explore independently, or just hang out on the ship, the key to a great cruise is knowing your options and planning ahead. If you choose excursions you need to book prior to your trip. Booking excursions on board can lead to disappointment when they are sold out or a lot more expensive.  Next up: what to pack (and what you really don’t need to bring).

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Step 5: What to Pack for a Cruise

Packing for a cruise is a little different from a regular vacation. Unlike a land trip, once you’re at sea, there’s no quick Target run if you forget something. If you don’t pack it, you either do without or pay cruise-ship prices (and trust me, a $15 tube of sunscreen stings in more ways than one).

Cruise cabins also tend to be small, so packing smart, not overpacking is key. Here’s a breakdown of what to bring, what to leave behind, and the must-have essentials that will make your trip easier.

Cruise Packing Essentials

Category	What to Pack
Clothing	Casual daytime outfits, swimwear, dinner attire (some cruises have formal nights), lightweight jacket, workout clothes if using the gym
Accessories	Sunglasses, sun hat, lanyard for keycard, small daypack for excursions, evening clutch or small crossbody bag
Tech & Gadgets	Phone + charger, power strip (non-surge protected, per cruise rules), e-reader or iPad, waterproof phone pouch for beach days
Toiletries & Medications	Sunscreen, motion sickness meds (even if you think you won’t need them), lip balm, hand sanitizer, any prescription meds in original bottles

Get the Full Checklist: Download the free cruise packing checklist in Jenn’s Library.

What Not to Bring on a Cruise

Just because you can pack it doesn’t mean you should. Some things are banned by cruise lines, while others just take up space without adding value.

• A Power Strip with a Surge Protector – Cruise lines don’t allow surge-protected strips due to fire risks. Get a non-surge-protected power strip or USB charging hub.

• Towels – Beach and pool towels are provided on the ship. No need to pack your own.

• Irons or Steamers – Also banned for fire safety reasons. Bring wrinkle-release spray instead.

• Expensive Jewelry – Unless you’re planning to attend a gala (and even then, reconsider), leave valuables at home.

• Too Many Shoes – Stick to one pair of comfy walking shoes, sandals, and one dressier option for evenings.

• Hairdryer – Most cruise cabins have one, and while it might not be salon-quality, it gets the job done without taking up suitcase space.

• Big Bottles of Shampoo & Conditioner – Unless you’re picky, use the cruise ship’s toiletries or bring travel sized bottles to save space.

• Refillable Water Bottle – While they’re great for other trips, cruise ships don’t allow you to refill personal bottles at water stations for sanitation reasons. Use the provided cups instead.

More Packing Help

Want to master the art of packing light? Check out our Carry-On-Only Packing Guides for tips on traveling efficiently, even on a cruise.

Not sure what to wear on formal nights? Read How to Pack for a 7-Day Cruise to see outfit ideas for every occasion.

Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming—but having the right essentials can make all the difference. Up next: cruise tips every first-timer needs to know (including the things you won’t find in the brochure).

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Step 6: Cruise Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Cruising is meant to be stress-free, but there are a few things first-timers might not realize until they’re standing in a crowded buffet line or wondering why their luggage still hasn’t arrived at their cabin. Unlike a land-based vacation, there are rules, schedules, and little surprises that can catch you off guard. Here’s what you need to know before setting sail.

Embarkation Day: Getting Onboard Without the Chaos

Embarkation day is exciting but can be hectic, especially on larger cruise ships. Here’s how to make the process smoother:

Arrival Times Matter – Some cruise lines require you to select an arrival appointment when you check in. This helps manage crowds, so don’t just show up whenever you feel like it. Stick to your assigned time for the fastest boarding experience.

Your Luggage Won’t Be With You for a While – At the port, you’ll hand your large suitcases over to security, and the cruise staff will deliver them to your cabin later. Depending on the ship, this can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours.

Pack a Carry-On with Essentials – Since you won’t see your luggage right away, have a backpack or tote with:

Shops Are Closed Until the Ship Leaves – One thing that surprised me on my first cruise? The ship’s stores don’t open until you’re in international waters. If you forgot sunscreen, Dramamine, or anything else, you’ll have to wait a bit before you can buy it.

Board, Drop Your Bag, and Explore – Once onboard, you can go straight to your cabin to drop off your carry-on, but your room might not be ready yet. After that, use this time to walk the ship, find hidden spots, and grab something to eat.

Dining: What to Expect & How to Avoid the Chaos

Cruise dining is more than just buffets and main dining rooms. Knowing where to eat (and when) can make a huge difference in your experience.

The Buffet on Day One is a Zoo – Everyone gets on the ship and heads straight to the buffet. If you want to avoid the madness, check out alternative dining options. Many sit-down restaurants are open on embarkation day, and they’re much quieter.

Main Dining Room vs. Specialty Dining

• Main Dining Room (MDR): Included in your cruise fare, usually offering sit-down meals with multi-course menus.
• Buffet: Open most of the day, but peak times are chaotic.
• Specialty Restaurants: Steakhouse, sushi, Italian, and other themed options—these cost extra, and reservations fill up fast.
• Late-Night Bites: Most ships have at least one casual dining spot open late.
• Room Service: Some cruise lines offer free breakfast delivery, but room service isn’t always included, so check the details.

Make Specialty Dining Reservations Early – If you want to eat at a high-end steakhouse or chef’s table, book it on day one. These restaurants fill up quickly. Stop by the front desk or the reservations desk to find out where to book.

Assigned Dinner Times on Large Ships – Some cruise lines (especially larger ones) have set dinner times in the main dining room. You’ll choose between:

• Early Seating (around 6 PM)
• Late Seating (around 8 PM)

You don’t have to eat at your assigned time—you’re free to grab food elsewhere—but if you like a traditional sit-down dinner, be aware of your scheduled slot.

You Might Be Seated with Strangers – Many cruise lines do family-style seating, meaning you may be placed at a table with other guests. If that’s not your thing, request a private table when you book.

Avoid Roaming Charges: Switch to Airplane Mode

Your phone will not automatically switch to cruise-friendly settings. If you leave it on, it may connect to the ship’s maritime network—which is wildly expensive.

Turn on airplane mode before leaving port.
If you need WiFi, buy a package early. Cruise internet is slow and expensive, but it’s cheaper if booked in advance.
Check your carrier’s international plan if you want cell service in port.

Motion Sickness: Plan Ahead, Even if You “Don’t Get Seasick”

Cruise ships are big, but they still move. Some routes (like Alaska or transatlantic crossings) are more prone to rough seas. Even if you think you don’t get motion sick, it’s better to be prepared.

✔ Start taking motion sickness meds before you feel queasy. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
✔ Sea bands and ginger chews can help, but if you’re prone to motion sickness, pack Dramamine or a scopolamine patch.
✔ Pick your cabin wisely. If you’re sensitive to motion, choose a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck for the smoothest ride.

Disembarkation: Plan for a Long Morning

Disembarkation day is not a leisurely goodbye. Everyone has to clear customs and exit the ship in an orderly process. If you’re not prepared, it can be a long and frustrating morning.

✔ Pack your bags the night before. Many cruise lines require guests to leave luggage outside their cabin the night before disembarkation. Keep essentials (passport, medications, a change of clothes) in a carry-on.
✔ Customs can be slow, so don’t book an early flight home.
✔ Expect to wait. Even though the ship docks early, it can take a couple of hours before you’re actually off the ship and on your way.

Final Thoughts: A Smooth Cruise Starts with the Right Prep

Cruising has a learning curve, but these tips will help you skip the beginner mistakes and enjoy your trip from start to finish. Up next: wrapping it all up and what to do next after planning your first cruise!

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Step 7: Making the Most of Your Cruise

Once you’re onboard and settled in, the real fun begins! A cruise is a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation—but how you structure your days will shape your overall experience. Do you want to wake up early, hit every activity, and squeeze in as much as possible? Or are you envisioning a slow-paced vacation, where your biggest decision is whether to lounge by the pool or take a nap on your balcony?

The good news? You don’t have to choose one or the other—you can strike the perfect balance between relaxation and fun. Here’s how to make the most of your time at sea.

Finding Your Perfect Cruise Routine

Cruises have something for everyone, but first-timers can easily get caught up in trying to do everything. The key to a great cruise? Pace yourself.

✔ Start with a rough plan – Take a few minutes to review the daily schedule each night. Most ships offer morning yoga, trivia, dance classes, live music, and evening entertainment. Choose what sounds fun but don’t overcommit—leave space to go with the flow.

✔ Mornings are the quietest – Want to enjoy the hot tub, grab a peaceful breakfast, or get a great lounge chair by the pool? Get up early. By mid-morning, common areas can get packed.

✔ Sea days are perfect for exploring the ship – Try activities you wouldn’t normally do, whether it’s rock climbing, a cooking class, a spa treatment, or just reading a book on your balcony.

✔ Excursion days can be exhausting—plan accordingly – If you’ve had a long day of hiking, snorkeling, or sightseeing, you may not have the energy to attend the late-night show or dance party. Give yourself permission to skip things when needed.

How to Enjoy Sea Days Without the Crowds

Sea days (days when the ship isn’t in port) can be both the best and busiest days onboard. If you don’t want to feel like you’re at an overpacked water park, try these tricks:

✔ Go to the pool early or late – By mid-morning, deck chairs start to disappear. If you want a prime spot, claim one early or wait until later in the afternoon when crowds thin out.

✔ Check out adults-only areas – Many ships have dedicated quiet zones or adult-only retreats that offer a more peaceful experience.

✔ Take advantage of overlooked spaces – Ships have hidden gems! Try the observation deck, library, or even the promenade deck for a relaxing escape.

✔ Book spa or specialty dining during peak hours – Midday on a sea day is the most crowded time on the ship. If you want to do something special (like a spa treatment or a fancy lunch), this is the perfect time since many passengers will be at the pool or buffet.

Why a Cruise is the Perfect Way to Test New Destinations

One of the best things about cruising? You get to “sample” different places without committing to a long trip. If you’re considering a bigger vacation to a specific country or region, a cruise is a great way to get a taste of multiple destinations before deciding where you’d like to return.

✔ Short time in each port = Low commitment – You’ll typically have 8-10 hours in port, enough time to explore and decide if it’s a place you’d want to visit for longer.

✔ Perfect for scouting future trips – If you love a particular port, you can plan a full vacation there later. If not, you only spent a few hours instead of an entire week.

✔ Minimal hassle – Instead of planning flights, hotels, and transportation, your cruise handles all the logistics—you just wake up in a new place each morning.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Your Cruise, Your Way

The beauty of cruising is that you can make it as relaxing or as active as you want. Whether you spend your time lounging with a drink, trying every activity on the schedule, or something in between, the key is to do what makes you happiest.

Now that you’re ready to plan your first cruise like a pro, what’s next? Booking, packing, and getting excited for your adventure at sea!

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Conclusion: Ready to Set Sail?

By now, you should feel confident and excited about planning your first cruise. You know how to choose the right itinerary, budget wisely, pack smart, book the best excursions, and make the most of your time onboard. Sure, there will be surprises along the way (because that’s travel), but you’re no longer going in blind.

The best advice for first-time cruisers? Embrace the experience. Cruises are meant to be fun and stress-free. Try new foods, meet new people, take part in activities you wouldn’t normally do, and enjoy waking up in a new place every morning. Whether you spend your days relaxing by the pool or running from one adventure to the next, this is your vacation—enjoy it your way.

To help you plan even further, check out these helpful cruise resources:

Must-Read Cruise Guides:
✔ How to Pack for a 7-Day Cruise
✔ Norwegian Alaska Cruise Review
✔ How to Ask for Time Off Without Feeling Guilty

Final Free Resource:
✔ Download the Free Cruise Packing Checklist

Now, all that’s left to do is book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an amazing adventure at sea. Happy cruising!