Take A Boat by: David Pierce

So you've decided to set sail and spend your next vacation cruise in the lap of luxury boats on the size of small cities to exotic ports of call. Now, how do you decide which cruise and choose where to go when the number of choices can be staggering? Being aware of a few simple guidelines and suggestions, you can refine your choice and find the perfect ship to the perfect destination.

First, decide how long you want to cruise. A long transatlantic voyage is obviously no question if you have only a long weekend to save for your vacation. Cruises lasting only three to four days are inexpensive, but you only visit one or two ports. In addition, your passengers are more likely to be Youth Day variety. Week-long cruises are most popular, are relatively inexpensive and generally visit the ports of call. Seven days, however, can move very quickly, and your fellow passengers are more likely to be partier. Finally, cruises over seven days, you can visit several ports of call in more exotic places such as South America or the Mediterranean, and you'll be more relaxed with more calm passengers. Unfortunately, the amount of money and vacation time may be cost prohibitive. Knowing how long you have to spend on a cruise necessarily restricts your choice of where you'll be able to travel. If more exotic locations appeal to you, but you have a shorter time, you can always evaluate the viability of your local flight and then take three or four days Cruise once you're there. For example, cruising to an Asian country can be extremely expensive, but once you are in China, a cruise on the Yangzhi is quite reasonable.

Then consider how much money you spend. There are a lot of variability in prices, and you can still find bargains on the Internet or through a travel agent. Just do not forget to take into account the port charges, insurance cancellation cruise and airfare, if not already included in the price of the cruise. Know your budget at the same time as your schedule will help you narrow your choices.

Time and money are not the only factors. Other factors include whether you want to travel in summer or winter, whether or not you want a cruise that will allow you to explore your hobbies, and the number of ports you want to stop in. Nothing is more frustrating than being stuck at sea, then you know you're beautiful past, bathed in sunshine islands. Some destinations are easily accessible and more popular in the winter season in the Caribbean, Mexico and the Panama Canal, for example-but travelers should be wary of the hurricane season. The Alaskan and European cruises, on the other hand, are generally not available in winter.

In addition to money, time and direction, consider any possible preferences you may have for a cruise ship. Although the differences between vessels decreased over time, some are a little more luxurious than others. Read scores of cruise line or travel publications, maintenance knowledge, or ask a travel agent.

Finally, once you decide how long you have, how much you want to spend, you want to cruise with, and where you want to go, you'll often face having to choose between options very similar. We will use, for example, in the Caribbean. How do you know if you want to go East or West? What in the world is the difference? Both have sandy beaches, clear blue water and plenty of sunshine, both offer a variety of water sports and opportunities for shopping and both are in virtually the same location. If you see the time you spend at sea, however, ports of call you visit, and excursions offered, there are slight differences between the two. Eastern Caribbean cruises usually outside of Florida, spend less time at sea, and hop from island to island, visiting places like Puerto Rice and St. Martin. You'll have more opportunities to shop and enjoy the beach. Western Caribbean Cruises, on the other, visiting ports of call, which are more geographically far apart, such as Jamaica and Cozumel. They leave not only Florida but also from Texas and Louisiana, and they spend more time at sea excursions, however, are more than just single Beachcomber activities, including opportunities to see the Mayan ruins and lush forest Tropical.

Ultimately, remember that with all the options available for your next cruise, this is not the time to sacrifice what you really want-be it the opportunity to have their hair braided in Nassau or whales in Alaska.

About the author


David is an experience with Internet Entreprenuer over 7 years of experience. It owns and operates the site http://www.florida-bound.info. Visit the site for more information and special offers on inspections of Florida, and other exciting places.