How to book a cruise

Quick insights

• Booking a cruise requires a few preliminary decisions, including selecting a destination, choosing a cruise line and deciding on a cabin type.
• Booking directly with a cruise line isn't always the most cost-effective option; travel agents and agencies can sometimes provide competitive deals.
• While a passport isn't always mandatory for cruises, it's generally recommended if your cruise makes stops outside the U.S.

“The world is a book,” wrote Saint Augustine, “and those who do not travel read only one page.” Cruises offer a great opportunity to add whole new chapters to your book of the world. Ready to turn the page? Let's dive into how to book your dream cruise.

Charting your course: How do I book a cruise?

Booking a cruise involves several steps, from choosing your destination to selecting your cabin. Here are some of the key aspects to consider:

• Choose a destination: The first step in booking a cruise is deciding where you want to go. Whether it's the sun-soaked Caribbean, the majestic landscapes of Alaska or the rich history of the Mediterranean, there's no shortage of choices when deciding where to cruise.
• Select a cruise line: Different cruise lines cater to different tastes and budgets. From family-friendly options to luxury lines, it’s important choose one that aligns with your preferences and budget.
• Decide on a cabin type: Cruise ships offer a variety of cabin types, such as budget-friendly interior cabins or luxurious suites with ocean views. Consider your budget and comfort preferences when making your choice.
• Book your cruise: Once you've made your decisions, you can book your cruise either directly through the cruise line, through a travel agent or via an online travel portal.

Booking options: Is it cheaper to book a cruise directly through the cruise line?

While it might seem intuitive that booking directly with a cruise line would be cheaper, that's not always the case. Here's why:

• Travel agents and online travel portals: These can have access to exclusive deals and discounts that aren't available when booking direct. They can also provide personalized service and valuable advice.
• Value-added services: Travel agents can also provide value-added services such as assistance with flight bookings, travel insurance and pre- or post-cruise hotel stays.
• Price matching: Many cruise lines will match prices if you find a cheaper deal elsewhere, so it's worth shopping around.

Understanding the process: How to book your cruise

It can be helpful to understand the process of booking a cruise to avoid potential surprises. Initially, you'll typically need to pay a deposit with the balance due a few months before departure. Some cruise lines may offer payment plans for convenience. The cruise fares usually include your cabin, meals in the main dining areas and entertainment. However, extras like drinks, specialty dining and shore excursions are typically not included and will be an additional cost.

Each cruise line has its own policy on cancellations and changes, so it's important to understand these before you book. To protect against unexpected changes, consider getting travel insurance.

Travel documents: Do you need a passport to go on a cruise?

Whether or not you need a passport for a cruise depends on your itinerary. For closed-loop cruises, which are cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens can use a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID instead of a passport. However, for cruises that visit foreign ports, a passport is generally recommended even if not always required. It's always best to check the specific requirements for the stops on your cruise itinerary.

The bottom line

Booking a cruise involves several steps from choosing a destination to selecting a cabin. While direct booking isn't always the cheapest option, travel agents and online travel agencies can often offer competitive deals. A passport isn't always required for cruises, but it's generally recommended for international travel. By understanding the booking process and doing some research, you can find a cruise that fits your preferences and budget.