Planning a First Cruise: Choosing the Ship, Route and Cabin
A first cruise is easier to plan than it looks. These are the choices that shape the trip most.
Key points
- Ship size shapes the experience: big ships offer more activities, smaller ships feel calmer and visit smaller ports.
- Choose an itinerary by the ports you want to see and how many sea days you’d enjoy.
- Cabin types range from inside cabins to suites; pick based on how much time you’ll spend in the room.
- Check what the fare includes and budget for common extras such as excursions and service charges.
Choosing a first cruise can feel overwhelming, with countless ships, routes and cabin categories. The good news is that only a few decisions really shape your trip. Get these right, and the rest falls into place.
Choose the right size of ship
| Ship size | What it’s like | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Large | Lots of restaurants, shows, pools and activities | Families and travelers who want plenty to do on board |
| Midsize | A balance of amenities and a calmer atmosphere | Couples and first-timers who want variety without crowds |
| Small | Quieter, more personal and able to reach smaller ports | Travelers focused on destinations rather than onboard activities |
Pick an itinerary you’ll enjoy
When comparing routes, look at:
- The ports: are these places you’re genuinely excited to see?
- Time in port: some stops are a few hours, others a full day or overnight.
- Sea days: relaxing for some, restless for others.
- Departure port: a port you can reach easily saves time and travel costs.
Travel tip
For a first cruise, a short itinerary of three to five nights from a convenient port is a low-risk way to discover whether cruising suits you.
Choose your cabin
Common cabin types include:
- Inside: no window, usually the most affordable. Fine if you’ll mostly be out and about.
- Oceanview: a window or porthole for natural light.
- Balcony: private outdoor space, popular on scenic routes.
- Suite: more space and often extra perks.
Location matters too. Cabins in the middle of the ship and on lower decks generally feel less motion, which helps if you’re worried about seasickness.
Know what’s included
Fares commonly include your cabin, main dining rooms, some casual dining and much of the onboard entertainment. Common extras include:
- Shore excursions
- Alcoholic drinks and specialty coffee or soda packages
- Specialty restaurants
- Wi-Fi
- Daily service charges or gratuities
- Spa treatments
Check the specific fare details, since inclusions vary widely between cruise lines and fare types.
Plan for embarkation day
Arrive in the departure city the day before if you’re flying, so a delay doesn’t make you miss the ship. Pack a small day bag with medications, documents and swimwear, since checked luggage can take a while to reach your cabin.
Before you book
Choose a ship size that suits you, an itinerary with ports you care about and a cabin that fits how you’ll use it. Then budget for extras. If you’re still deciding between a cruise and a land-based trip, see our cruise or land tour comparison, or compare ocean and river cruises.
Questions travelers ask
How long should a first cruise be?
A short cruise of three to five nights is a good way to find out whether you enjoy cruising before committing to a longer trip.
Is a balcony cabin worth it?
It can be on scenic routes or longer trips, where private outdoor space adds a lot. On short cruises with busy port days, an inside or oceanview cabin may be enough.
Do I need to book shore excursions through the cruise line?
No. You can explore independently or book local tours, but make sure you’re back on board on time. Cruise-booked excursions usually wait for delayed groups; independent ones may not.