The Ins and Outs of Cruising

If you’re anything like me, you love to cruise more than any other form of travel. I’ve been on five cruises in my lifetime so far, so I think I can be considered a “cruise-aholic.” 

If you’re thinking about taking a cruise in the future, look no further. I am here to help! There are many factors to consider when booking a cruise: the cruise line, the price, the sailing locations, and so on. 

Let’s start with picking a cruise line. This includes the line, the price, and the sailing locations. The three most “popular” cruise lines seem to be Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International.

Norwegian Cruise Line is my personal favorite. They are not too expensive, ranging from $2,000 and up for a week for four people. Of course, it depends on the location of your cabin and the room type. This cruise line is very family friendly, but is also suited for couples, as well. There are activities ranging from meeting the Nickelodeon characters during the day, to dancing in the clubs past the children’s bedtimes. There are waterslides and rope courses for the children, while mom and dad can relax by the pool and get their tan on. Also, the food on these ships is amazing. As there is no set seatings, they have multiple dining rooms where you can go and eat whenever you’d like. They also have speciality restaurants, ranging from Italian, to French, to Irish Pubs. Whatever you’re in the mood for, they have it. If they don’t have it, check the buffet! In addition, this cruise line departs from New York City, Miami, and many other locations. They sail to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Bahamas & Florida, Bermuda, Canada & New England, the Caribbean, and many more!

Next up is Carnival Cruise Line. This cruise line is definitely the least expensive of the three, ranging from $1,400 and up for a week for four people! This cruise line is known as more of a party cruise, but it is still family and couple friendly. If you’re looking for a fun time, nightlife on these ships start later and end later. There are places to drop off your children, as young as two years old! There are activities for all ages and there is always something to do. Also, this cruise line has many different restaurants, including Guy Fieri’s Burger Joint. However, these ships fixed and flexible dining, so you will most likely have a predetermined seating time almost every night. It depends on the plan that you purchase. In addition, this cruise line departs from New York City, Miami, Vancouver, and many other locations. They sail to Alaska, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Cuba, and many more!

Last but not least is Royal Caribbean International. These cruises are on the less expensive side, ranging from $1,500 and up for a week for four people. Of course, it depends on the room you stay in and the port you choose to depart from. This cruise line is suitable for partiers, families, and couples. There is always something to do including climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and zip lines. There is something for all ages! The nightlife is exciting with a lot of things, such as dancing, to do, as well. Also, the food on this cruise line takes third place when compared to the other two cruise lines. I have heard that it was good, but sometimes underwhelming. That is a little disappointing. In addition, Royal Caribbean International departs from Miami, Boston, and many other locations. They sail to Bermuda, Hawaii, Cuba, and many more!

Next time you are booking a cruise, make sure to do your research to get the best bang for your buck! 

XOXO,

Have Some Wanderlust