Choosing a cruise line may seem like a monumental task, given the choices and options available. However, differentcruise lines specialize in different things. Some may be more prevalent at offering long-term trips, and others may be better at two or three-day excursions. Others may offer better on-board entertainment. Some may focus on shore excursions.

No matter what you may look for in a cruise line, there is no doubt that the genre of travel is quickly becoming one of the most sought after. No other type of trip offers you the chance to visit multiple locations for not much more than a nice hotel room would cost at one location. This makes cruises ideal for those who want to get a feel for a general area of the world.

When choosing a cruise line, the first thing to consider is where you want to go. Cruise ships are often docked in certain areas for a reason. They are ideal for the type of travel in that area. So whether you want an Alaskan vacation or the tropical appeal of the Caribbean, there is something for everyone on a ship well-equipped to handle that region’s nuances and differences.

Another thing to consider is the length of time you want to be at sea. Some will offer three-day trips. Some as many as 14 days or even longer. While cruise lines often will offer various days, some may be better at shorter trips and some better at longer trips. Search what cruises are available for each individual cruise line. Those offering more shorter trips than longer ones may be more comfortable with that niche.

Also important to consider is what on-board entertainment you may want to take advantage of. Cruise ships are known for their casinos. However, not all cruise ships offer casinos, in an attempt to cater to families. Whichever is your desire, make sure you know what may or may not be on the cruise ship before booking a trip. The best cruise ship is often dependent on what your idea of entertainment may be.

The cost may also play a role in choosing the best cruise line. While cruise lines will hardly ever charge the “list price” for a trip, some may offer more substantial discounts than others. Also, the size of the staterooms will be a consideration for some. The best cruise ships will still offer a comfortably-sized room, even if you choose the cheapest interior room you can find.

While some passengers choose to explore the various ports of call independently, others appreciate having a variety of shore excursion options to choose from. If this is the case for you, research these thoroughly, especially if you already have in mind what you may want to do. Some cruise lines will only offer certain things and the costs may be different from one cruise line to the next.

Choose a Cruise Line

According to ABC News, 16 million Americans took a cruise vacation in 2006.  Even more are estimated to travel in 2007.  Cruise travel is relaxing, stress-free, scenic, and offers activities for vacationers with a wide variety of interests.  But, how do you pick the cruise line that’s right for you?  Consider the following:

Set a budget.  Before you make a call to your travel agent or visit that cruise company website, determine how much money you can spend on your cruise vacation. Cruises come in different price ranges, just like other vacation options.  The least expensive voyages are the three- and four-night cruises that depart from South Florida and Southern California.  If you’ve never cruised before or if you only have a little time or money to spend, one of these could be the right cruise for you.
Longer cruises and those that begin in overseas ports are more expensive than seven-night cruises from the United States.  Also, some lines, such as Crystal Cruises and Seabourn, offer pricier, more deluxe cruises with fewer passengers, more elegantly appointed staterooms and more complementary extras.
Determine your destination. Although you could argue that the ship is truly the destination on a cruise, most vacationers choose a cruise based on the ports the ship will be visiting.  Some lines specialize in a particular destination.  Holland America and Princess Cruises are the recognized leaders in Alaska cruising; Royal Caribbean and Carnival are known for their Caribbean cruises; and Norwegian Cruise Lines offers regular cruises to Bermuda during the spring, summer and fall.

Examine your interests. Cruise lines vary somewhat in the activities they emphasize.  Carnival Cruises is known for its vibrant nightlife; Crystal Cruises is known for its lecturers and special-interest cruises; and Disney Cruise Line, of course, is known for its family magic. Defining the type of cruise you are seeking will help you pinpoint the right cruise line for you.
Visit the CLIA Web site. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) is the world’s largest cruise organization, designed to promote cruising to North American passengers.  Their web site contains a wealth of information to help potential cruisers choose the sailing and cruise line that’s right for them.  Among their resources are cruise ship profiles, destination profiles, and a blog about what’s new in the cruise industry.  They will even give you a list of cruise agents located near you.
Enlist the aid of a travel agent. A good travel agent can be invaluable in searching for the right cruise at the right price.  Because she works with cruise travel on a daily basis, a travel agent will be able to identify cruise specials as soon as they become available.  Look for an agent that specializes in cruise travel and/or a CLIA-certified agent.
Taking some time to choose the cruise line that best matches your budget, interest, and lifestyle will go a long way to ensuring that you and your family have an enjoyable cruise vacation.

Pick The Perfect Family Cruise

1. Step1

   Identify at least one feature that is most important to everyone. For example, your spouse may want to go to Cozumel but doesn’t care as much about which ship it is. Your son may want a cruise that has a cool hangout/club for teenagers. Your daughter may want to find a ship with a water slide or serves free ice cream , Your parents may want a cruise that has great dining options and nice spa. And you may simply want a ship that has a happening night life. By finding out what is most important to everyone you can try to satisfy as many needs as you can.

2. Step2

   Make a list of what each person does not want on his or her cruise. For example, your parents may have had an awful cruise on “x” cruise line and will not travel with them. Or you may have already gone to a certain destination or do not care to go again. Put these things on the “avoid” list.

3. Step3

   Begin looking for cruises that go to the location(s) you are looking for. If your son wants to go to Key West and your spouse to Cozumel, try to look for cruises that include both.

4. Step4

   Eliminations – Now begin eliminating cruises that are overpriced or you are not willing to pay for. Then eliminate cruises that are on your “avoid” list, or at least move then to the bottom of the list.

5. Step5

   Begin zoning in on cruises that have most, if not all of the features that your family members are looking for. Make a list of these choices making sure it has something for everyone.

6. Step6

   Begin sorting your favorite prospects by price (if value is also important to you, remember money saved here can be used for spending money on the cruise itself) and pick the top three.

7. Step7

   Take the three you have picked and vote on it. This way everyone feels involved with the choices without being overwhelmed with information.