Four Things to Consider When Booking a Cruise

The family and I are headed on Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas this weekend, and we can't wait! This is going to be the girls' first cruise, and I fear I may be setting the bar too high. The Oasis Class debuted the cruise industry's first "mega ship", and Allure is the second built in the class. From a zipline, to FlowRider, and waterslides, if the girls get bored on this ship, I'm in trouble for the future.

When it comes to choosing your next cruise, there are a few key components you want to think about. Here are the top four I believe are most important to consider:

Size and Layout Matter!

Right now, the theory is the bigger the ship, the bigger the price tag. If you want all the latest bells and whistles, you're going to need a place to put that. FlowRiders, multiple dining options, water slides and splash zones, bumper cars, multiple theaters, and with some, even rollercoasters, will all cost more than an older ship that's smaller. Typically, this is due to supply and demand--everyone wants the prettiest, newest, best ship! If you want the bet value, book these ships as far out as possible.

Avoid Peak Season

If the kids are out of school, it will inevitably cost more (back to that whole supply and demand thing). September - February, not including holidays, are typically the slower season for cruising. I've also found some great rates in early May. Usually, the best promotional offers from cruise lines aren't offered on the peak dates (this includes Kids Sail Free from Royal Caribbean), and thus can be as much as 2-3x more if you sail during holidays and school breaks.

Location is Important

Where your ship is departing from and your itinerary play a big role in price. For example, because of demand and size, a ship leaving from Florida's east coast (Port Canaveral, Ft. Lauderdale, or Miami) will cost more than smaller ports like Baltimore, or Galveston ports. Heading to Nassau will be less expensive than going to the Eastern Caribbean, like the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) because of the length of time it takes to get there and the limited availability those ports allow.

Hiring a Travel Agent is Key

Not only will a good Travel Agent (or Travel Advisor) know where on the ship would be best for your cabin, but those specialized in cruises will be able to advise on the best ship and itinerary. Experienced agents will always be in your corner, with great service and tips, for any rough waters. They know all the fine details of your entire trip and get you Sea Ready for all the enjoy.

Now that you're one step closer to knowing the things to think about, where are you sailing to next? I would love to help unpack the stress of your next trip! Here's to warm beaches and frozen daiquiris, and hopefully my girls won't be wild animals on the ship. Bon Voyage!