If you're thinking of taking a cruise vacation, you first have to find the right one for you.
Jeff Leach, Dream Vacations Franchise Owner and Vacation Specialist with Barefoot Vacations in Omaha, Nebraska thinks the key to finding the perfect cruise is to utilize the expertise of a good travel professional:
"Find a travel agent who has experienced a variety of cruise products, so they are able to match you up to the best option. They should be asking qualifying questions like with whom you will be traveling, how long you are allowing for your vacation and an approximate budget."
Next, think about what you want from your cruise.
"Are you looking for a party type atmosphere or something more laid back?" asks Chris Caulfield, CruiseOne Franchise Owner and Vacation Specialist in Croton on Hudson, New York. "Do you want to go somewhere tropical and get some island time or are you interested in visiting quaint European towns and vineyards? Also, who is going on the cruise? Would you need programs for children or are there any solo travelers in the group."
Finding the right cruise at the right time is also an important consideration.
"Cruises that take place when school is in session will tend to have little or no children on the ship," said Caulfield. "As you can see, there is a lot to consider."
It is okay to start by doing your own research, however.
"Do you like to do a lot of research on your own, read reviews, look at videos and pictures?" asks Rhonda Day a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner and Vacation Specialist with Vacation Days Travel in Louisville, Kentucky. "Doing these things will help you make a good decision.
"Even if you like to do a lot of the work yourself, a travel professional can walk alongside you in the journey, verify your findings and be your advocate."
Cruising with the entire family can be a fun experience, but remember that the cruise is for everyone.
"Taking the whole family on a cruise creates a vacation experience that everyone will remember forever," said Eileen Entin, owner of Diamond Cruise and Travel, in Trenton, New Jersey, who recently sailed to the Caribbean with her extended family. "When you know which cruise line and ship match the needs of the group, it's easy to find an itinerary with the type of excursions that offers something fun and special for everyone."
Phillips also said that even shy young travelers seem to "come out of their shell" when on vacation. "Be it a shipboard children's program or just visiting the local sights at your destination. I've seen lasting friendships begin during vacation time! Your young folks would have others to play with."
As a fun idea to commemorate your cruise together, Phillips suggests having a t-shirt made that everyone gets to take home. To help with the planning, Entin said that one person needs to be the point person for the group.
"Some people like to do the research and control the process, others are comfortable coming along for the ride," she said. "To ensure the process moves smoothly and everything gets properly nailed down, funnel all communications from your travel agent through one person who can then communicate with the family."
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