So, You’re New to Cruising

By: DeeDee Scruggs
March 14, 2024

If you’re new to cruising, discovering the right cruise line for your own travel preferences can be super intimidating. Maybe you’re someone who likes to stay busy and active, or maybe you prefer to take it easy on vacation and go with whatever margarita-induced flow you have going on that day. From the party animals to the adventurers, you’re all in luck: I’m something of an expert in cruise lines! 

Carnival is a great cruise line for young people who want to have a party atmosphere; it’s called the fun ship for a reason. There are deck parties, “wear all white” parties, 70’s parties, the list goes on and on. The drink package keeps the drinks flowing and there is something to do until late in the night! If you don’t want to party until 2 in the morning, that’s okay. You can retire after dinner, and you will never know what is going on. They have the more relaxed things like trivia and Bingo and the adults only area where there is a more laid-back feel. Carnival is a great budget friendly vacation option as well. 

Royal Caribbean is a great option for multi-generational travel groups. They have a very relaxing upscale feel in some areas of the ships, and they also have the let your hair down and have great time areas. The more reserved areas still feel relaxed and for the most part the party vibe areas don’t get too out of control. 

Disney Cruise Line is another great option for families and multi-generational groups. They have adults only areas and boy howdy, do they enforce them. If you are adults traveling without children or adults who want to have some time without children, you can go to the adults only pool deck or the bars and pubs and have a drink and relax. The children will be completely happy in the kids’ clubs, and they are cared for and entertained thoroughly.  

MSC is a very flexible option because they have levels to the cruising experience catered to your budget and your needs. If you want to cruise without breaking the bank you can choose the Bella experience that includes your room choice and your food at the buffets and main dining room. This is a more a la cart experience; if you want to eat in the specialty dining rooms, you purchase that separately- as well as the drink package or Wi-Fi. There are several experiences: Bella, Fantasica, Aurea and Yacht Club. You can have a more customized experience by choosing the level that you wish based on your personal wants and needs! 

These are just a few examples as there are many more like Norwegian, Princess, Cunard, etc. You also could do river cruises instead of oceans cruises. 

There are so many cruise lines to choose from, so it’s super important to get the assistance of a knowledgeable travel agent to make your cruise vacation a fabulous one. I cruise often on different cruise lines, and I am an Accredited Cruise Counselor through CLIA (Cruise Lines International Associations.) I would love to help you choose and book your next cruise or your first cruise!  

You can reach me at DeeDee@WishesFamilyTravel.com or on my Facebook page www.Facebook/DScruggs.WFT anytime!