Going on the deck for the first time? I can guarantee you beforehand that cruising days will be some of the best in your life. You’ll be enjoying oceanic views, unforgettable experiences on the excursions, and a glimpse of life on the sea. All of it is going to be amazing. I can bet.
But before getting excited about jumping on the deck with all your belongings, you need to choose the cruise line company. We are here to help make your decision easier.
List of Top 5 Cruise Lines for First-Time Cruising
The best cruise line to go with strongly depends on your preferences. You might want to answer the following question before making your first booking.
- Are you on a budget?
- For how many days do you want to sail?
- Do you want to cruise to enjoy the sea or excursions?
- Is luxury important to you?
- Are you cruising with family or solo?
The list below may change according to your preferences. We have made the list that can best fit all the equations.
1. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line carries the highest number of passengers worldwide. It is also known to have some of the largest ships for its passengers to have a fun adventure. The ship line can cater to a range of preferences from its large fleet of cruises. You can find its ships budget-friendly, well-maintained, luxe, and well-suited for families and solo travelers.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line is another good option for first-timers. It offers a range of amenities and activities onboard. The cruise line features a “freestyle cruising” concept that allows passengers to eat when and where they want. They also provide a variety of entertainment options onboard, such as party nights and comedy clubs. You can pre-book the tickets for entertainment options you like to get discount offers.
3. Royal Caribbean International
Royal Caribbean is the best for those who would like to sail lavishly. It has an amazing fleet of ships and a wide range of activities onboard, including climbing walls, ice skating, broadway-style shows, and gourmet dining options. A Royal Caribbean cruise is the ultimate experience that guarantees to offer an extensive range of activities and amenities serving kids and adults alike.
4. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is one of the best cruises for kids, especially if you have a daughter. It has everything that’ll make your daughter feel like a princess. It offers a very upscale experience. The line provides a range of dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants. It also offers a range of activities, including cooking classes, wine tastings, and art auctions.
5. Disney Cruise Line
Absolute best options for families with kids. It offers kids-friendly facilities and activities that’ll make your kids go gaga. Your kids can experience live Disney shows, meet live Disney characters, and play at kids’ clubs. Disney cruise line also provides a range of dining options. It includes themed cafes and adult-only dining making it compatible for both kids and adults, but can be expensive.
What are Some Tips for First-Time Cruisers?
- Hopefully, now you know about some of the top cruise lines for your first voyage on the sea. Now let’s take a look at some handy tips for first-time cruises.
- Always look for discounts and promotions marketed by the cruise line. They’ll save you a significant amount of money.
- Pre-booking the interested onboard activities and excursions is way better than on-the-spot booking.
- Carry pills and medications if you think you’re prone to seasickness. Although, they have a medical facility there on the deck.
- Travel insurance can prove beneficial.
- You’ll have to travel to the port of departure by yourself. Hence, using public transport to reach the port is better and more economical. It’ll save your parking costs at the ports.
I’m a First-Time Cruise Passenger, Where Do I Start?
You can start by deciding on an itinerary, choosing the right cruise line downloading the cruise line app, and looking out for offers and discounts.
What is a Nice Place to go for a First Cruise?
You have a plethora of options for first-time cruising, but I think the Caribbean Sea is a good start. The water is calm and most of the ports are located in the same country (USA). You can start from Maimi and sail towards the Bahamas.
What are the Secrets of Cruise that First-Timers Should Know?
Let’s explore some secret tips that’ll make your sailing a breeze.
- Punctuality is good practice to follow. Be on the port before time if possible.
- Many cruise lines don’t mind if you bring your drinks. Grab on the opportunity.
- Having a good travel agent will ease down lots of complexities while cruising.
Which Cruise Line has the Best Food?
Options may differ, but Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises offer the best cuisine quality compared to the cruise lines.
Things to Keep Note of…
Cruising is one of the best adventures everyone should experience once in life. Once experienced, you may want to jump on the deck every vacation. The serenity and smell of being on the water are addictive. It soaks all the frustration and stress of life like magic.
It’s a myth that cruising on a ship will cost you a fortune or make a huge hole in your pockets. If you plan smartly, you’ll not be spending more than $300 – $400 per day per day.
Taking everyone and everything into consideration, the Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruises are the most smooth and trustworthy options for first-time sailors.
Book Disney Cruise Line or Princess Cruise Line if you’re with kids, Royal Caribbean and Viking Cruise Line for a luxurious experience, and MSC Cruise and Costa Cruises if you are on a budget.
Do keep an eye on discount options, vacation offers, and promotions. These can save you a significant amount of money on onboard activities.
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