Discussions

We are interested in going on a cruise this summer but have never been before. We would love any tips on cruises in general, feedback on where you’ve cruised to in summer that you loved, as well as an idea on costs. The cruise itself and air fare doesn’t seem to expensive but I’m sure there are hidden fees you don’t even think about to take info consideration. Final question is did you use a travel agent to book and if so who do you recommend?

we have cruised with royal Caribbean it was wonder full. not really inexpensive though. we travelled in the winter to avoid the winter here. we only spent one full day of the seven on board the ship by the pool. either way going on excursions or just kicking back, it is fun. the food is five star, and the entertainment is first class. extra fees i:nclude tips(these may not be optional), flights or getting to the port, alcohol (normally), gambling, anything you purchase on or off the boat and the excursions you book. we booked through transat and have good luck with staff at caa.

We have gone on five crises one to Alaska four to Caribbean. We have used Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruise-lines. We joined a group so package was all set up. Meals are usually i:ncluded but you can pay extra for steak night. If you drink there are packages you can get to help with costs.  
 
Excursions on shore basically cost $100 a person per event. If you go ashore can often book cheaper but if too long the ship doesn’t guarantee to wait. Have done both. There is no cost to go to shore to shop. Beware of buying jewelry. Found the paper guarantee wasn’t worth the paper.  
 
Stateroom are small. If cruise i:ncludes several days at sea I felt claustrophobic. We usually try to get one with a porthole. The smoothest cabins are lower and middle of ship. At back over the screw there maybe pronounced vibrating. Front of ship on cruise to Alaska was rough when we hit big seas. I spent several nights up in cafeteria.  
 
Heard people concerned about seasickness. Never had an issue but too much time in bar might make it worse.  
 
About $1000 CDN per person for a seven day cruise would be average.  
 
There is wifi on ships but slow and expensive. Most ports have Internet cafe so I carried laptop and Skyped home from shore.

I would recommend using Cruise Critic. After being on a couple of cruises and talking other passengers this website has a huge amount information, tips and traps.

Can you pick what cabin you want?

Yes you can choose your cabin and location on the cruise ship. I’m a travel agent and I’d love to help you out.