First Time Cruisers
Planning Your First Cruise?
Cruise Critic has tons of advice on how to plan a cruise and expert tips for first-time cruisers. We've got everything you need to know before your first sailing.
Best Cruises for First Timers
Don't be overwhelmed choosing your first cruise. Let us help you pick the perfect sailing, based on your travel style and interests.
Is Cruising Right for Me?
Learn what to expect on a cruise by debunking cruise myths, then decide if cruising is the right vacation for you.
- First Timer's Guide to Onboard Activities
- Top 10 Reasons to Cruise
- Best Cruises for Non-Cruisers
- Yes, You Can Cruise With a Disability
- What to Expect on a Cruise: Cruise Ship Safety
- Family Cruising Basics
- 10 Things Every Solo Cruiser Should Know
- What to Expect on a Cruise: Cruise Food
- 7 Reasons Why Cruises Are Romantic
- Expedition Cruising Basics
- Is There a Theme Cruise That's Right for Me?
How to Choose a Cruise
We've got tons of tips on how to choose the best ship or itinerary, pick a cruise that fits your budget and when to upgrade to luxury.
How to Book a Cruise
Confused by how to book a cruise? Don't worry! We'll take you through the process step by step.
I Booked a Cruise, Now What?
Congratulations, you've booked a cruise! Now for the fun stuff: planning shore excursions, making dinner and spa reservations, and packing.
Things to Know Before You Cruise
Get the scoop on cruise line alcohol, smoking, tipping and dress code policies, as well as uncovering the hidden costs.
- 10 Hidden Costs of Cruising
- Cruise Line Alcohol Policies
- A Guide to Cruise Line All-You-Can-Drink Packages
- Cruise Line Tipping Policies
- The Cost of Using Your Phone or the Internet on a Cruise
- Cruise Line Dress Codes
- Cruise Line Smoking Policies
- How to Talk Like a Sailor: A Glossary of Cruise Terms
- First Timers' Guide to Onboard Activities
- 9 Things You Don't Know About Your Cruise Ship Cabin
- Travel Rules and Regulations
- Cruise Line Laundry Services
Foolproof Your Cruise Vacation
Discover what to avoid in port, how to avoid seasickness, and the pros and cons of cruising during hurricane season.
- How to Avoid Illness on a Cruise: 10 Tips
- Norovirus - What You Need to Know
- 13 Things Not to Do on Your First Cruise
- 9 Tips for Staying Safe on a Cruise Ship
- Staying Safe in Port
- Eight Steps to Stress-Free Travel
- Hurricane Season Cruising: What You Need to Know
- Solving Cruise Problems
- Why You Should Never Sneak Alcohol on a Cruise
Tips and Advice for First Time Cruisers
You'll find yet more information on how to prepare for and have the best time on your cruise in our Tips and Advice section.
- Do's and Don't's for Your First Day Onboard a Cruise Ship
- Secrets the Cruise Lines Don't Tell You
- Tips for Stretching Your Cruise Dollars Onboard
- Onboard Credit: How to Get It, Where to Spend It
- Best 'Free' Things to Do on a Cruise
- Top Cruising Tips from Cruise Critic's Editors
- 8 Tips for the Best Main Dining Room Experience
- 7 Challenging Cruise Ports We Can Help You Navigate
- 10 Etiquette Tips for Sharing a Cruise Ship Cabin
- Making the Most of Your Overnight Port Call