Planning a cruise can be a bit of a balancing act. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, here are a few personal rules of thumb we follow to ensure our vacation feels like a true escape.
1. The Case for the Balcony
We almost always opt for a balcony stateroom, and honestly, it’s not always the budget-buster people assume it is. If you’re trying to shake that “workspace cubicle” feeling, having your own private slice of the ocean is a game changer.
• Fresh Air: There’s nothing like propping the door open to catch a sea breeze.
• The Views: You never know what you’ll see. Some of my favorite photos—like that vintage ship on my front page from our NCL trip—were taken right from our room.
2. Quality Over Quantity
It’s tempting to book the longest itinerary you can find, but be careful. A 14-day cruise sounds dreamy until you realize the ship is outdated or lacks the amenities you enjoy.
• The “Burnout” Factor: If the ship isn’t well-equipped, the first five days might be fine, but by day ten, you’ll be counting the minutes until disembarkation.
• Know Your Style: If you’re happy just being on the water, go for the long haul! But if you prefer live Broadway-style shows, high-end attractions, and pristine pools, it’s often better to book a shorter trip on a “wow” factor ship than a long trip on a “nightmare” one.
3. Lean Into Your Priorities
At the end of the day, cruising is subjective. Some people just want a bed and a buffet; others want the full resort experience.
• Don’t settle: If you want world-class entertainment over watching TV in your room, do the research and pick a ship that delivers.
• The Goal: Whatever brings you relaxation or excitement—go find it. Your vacation time is precious; don’t spend it wishing you were somewhere else.
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