You’ve seen the TikToks, heard reviews from your family and friends and you are thinking, you know what, I’ll try a cruise! But maybe you’re unsure of where to start? Planning and booking a cruise holiday can be tricky for even the most avid of cruisers so we can appreciate the moment of ‘where do I begin!?‘ when you’re planning your very first cruise. In this post, we are sharing some top tips to give you some guidance as you begin the journey of planning your first cruise. Here are 10 tips for planning and booking your first cruise holiday.
1. Choose the right cruise line for you
It is true what they say, there is a cruise and a cruise line for everyone and while some have a similar experience proposition, there are also huge differences among others. Whether you are hoping to set sail on a family orientated ship with plenty for the kids to enjoy, or perhaps you want a more laidback, adult only luxury experience, there is a cruise line for you. So, if you are at the early stages of planning a cruise, start to research the major cruise lines and see which one you get excited by! The most popular cruise lines are MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and Virgin Voyages.

2. Watch the videos, do the research
Whether you love to delve into detail on Tiktok or watch more immersive Youtube videos, spending time watching cruise video content is a great way to get a sense for the vibe of a cruise holiday and specifically cruise lines as well. Save any that catch your eye because you might need to reference back as you plan and book your cruise with your cruise holiday specialist.
3. Think about your ports of call and what you’d like to see
Another thing to consider when planning your first cruise is what part of the world you would like to visit and more specifically are there any particular destinations you would like to visit? The wonder of cruising is you get to wake up somewhere new every day so be sure to choose a cruise line and itinerary that will give you the most exciting of destinations to explore.

4. Consider what you enjoy on holidays so we can match you the perfect cruise
Another important thing to consider when planning your first ever cruise holiday is to think about what you enjoy on holidays. Do you enjoy adult only? Do you enjoy great shows? Do you consider yourself a foodie? Do you like a luxury experience? If you can pin point what brings you joy when you travel, it will help with choosing the right ship for your first cruise holiday.
5. Review the different cabin types
Cruises are a little different to land based holidays when it comes to accommodation. It is important to know the type of cabins available on the ship you choose and to align what you are booking or hope to book with your budget. The cheapest option on ships are inside cabins, which have no natural light. These are very popular with budget savvy cruisers and ideal if you don’t plan to spend much time in your room. With that being said, balcony cabins are a dream and having your own personal outdoor space to watch the world sail by is a little piece of heaven and we highly recommend it! For those wanting an extra special experience, suite class may be the way to go!
6. Consider adding on any extras at time of booking
Cruises are incredible value. They can often look expensive at first glance to those who aren’t too familiar with them, but we assure you, what you get, truly outweighs the holiday cost. Having all of your food and entertainment included in the cost is fantastic value and means you need less spending money when you sail. However, where you can, make your holiday even better value by adding on any drinks packages, shore excursions and transfers where needed. Your future cruising self and your bank account will thank you for it.
7. Consider adding a night or two on pre or post cruise
While departing ports such as Barcelona are just a short 15-20 minute drive from the airport, where possible, we always recommend flying out a day or two before you are due to sail. This firstly reduces any risks you may have with flight delays to ensure you get to the ship, but it also gives you the chance to explore the city you are departing from, rather than just going straight from the plane to the ship. It will add value and more experience to your holiday, making it even more memorable. Of course on the other end of your trip, if you’re not ready to fly back to reality after your time at sea, you should also consider a night or two post cruise.

8. Consider your budget
Speaking of budgets… its important to consider what your holiday budget is. Once you have an idea, we can help you choose a time of year, ship etc to suit that budget. While the holiday cost of a cruise may look more expensive upfront, you need less spending money for it than a land based holiday usually.
9. Think about the weather
While cruise lines are excellent navigators when it comes to the weather, time of year does play an important role in planning a cruise holiday. The Mediterranean region offers cruises year round and while the summers are hot, the autumn, spring and winter periods can offer some amazing value and a pleasant cruise holiday with pleasant temperatures. For the Caribbean, Spring is a fantastic time to cruise as is winter. Some regions are also seasonal, like Alaska which only opens during the summer season from around May-September.

10. Book with a cruise specialist
The most important piece of the puzzle when planning and booking your first cruise holiday is to book with a cruise holiday specialist like Click&Go Holidays. We know all of the tips and tricks to secure the best deals for our customers and we can help you navigate through the overwhelming amount of information that is out there when it comes to booking that oh so special, first cruise holiday.
If you are ready to take that next step, reach out to our cruise experts today (who happen to be the highest ranked cruise specialists on Trustpilot) by calling 01-6995329. Alternatively, browse our best cruise deals here.
Hi looking for a cruise in September all inclusive a Mediterranean I like Italy, Croatia and Greece we travelled with msc last year and really enjoyed it so if you have a few options I would really appreciate it thankyou
Hi Elaine
Many thanks for your comment. I have passed it onto the sales team who will be in touch with you soon!
Thanks,
Michelle