First-Timers to Frequent Cruisers: Questions I Hear Most Often (And How I Answer Them)

I'm Heather Hills, and through my work at Flow Voyages, I've helped hundreds of travelers plan their first cruise - and their tenth. What I've learned is that the questions never really stop. First-time cruisers want to know the basics, but I also hear from experienced travelers facing new situations: a parent recovering from hip surgery who wants to know about wheelchair accessibility, adult children planning their first multigenerational cruise with aging parents, or couples celebrating a milestone anniversary who want something different from their usual Caribbean itinerary.

My background as a recreational therapist, with formal education in leisure studies, gives me a perspective most travel advisors lack. I understand mobility challenges, accessibility requirements, and how to design travel experiences that work for people across the full spectrum of physical abilities. That expertise matters more than ever: 28% of cruisers in 2024 traveled with three to five generations of family members, and those groups often include grandparents with mobility considerations or family members with specific needs.

The questions below reflect what cruisers actually ask - from first-timers nervous about their maiden voyage to experienced travelers navigating new circumstances. Whether you're considering an Alaska cruise from Seattle, a Mexican Riviera sailing from San Diego, a Canada and New England fall foliage itinerary, or your first river cruise, I've addressed the concerns I hear most often.

How Do I Choose the Right Cruise When There Are So Many Options?

This is the question I spend the most time on with clients because the answer is genuinely personal - and because the cruise industry is remarkably diverse. With over 300 ocean-going vessels now sailing, ranging from 100-passenger expedition ships to 7,000-passenger floating cities, plus dozens of river cruise lines and specialty operators, there's no simple answer to "which cruise is best." The industry has expanded far beyond the traditional Caribbean beach cruise. Expedition cruising saw the largest percentage growth in 2024, which tells me travelers are increasingly seeking adventure, education, and unique destinations. The right cruise depends on what you want from your vacation: relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, family bonding, or some combination. I always start by asking what a "perfect vacation day" looks like.

Which cruise line should a first-timer choose?

There's no universal answer - I match cruise lines to personalities. Carnival and Norwegian excel at casual, festive atmospheres with nonstop activities. Princess and Holland America offer traditional cruising with enrichment programs and quieter vibes. Celebrity and Virgin Voyages attract travelers seeking contemporary design and culinary focus. Royal Caribbean dominates the mega-ship market with water parks and entertainment districts.

Does ship size really matter that much?

Absolutely - this is one of the most consequential decisions you'll make. Mega-ships (5,000+ passengers) offer water parks, Broadway shows, and dozens of restaurants, but can feel overwhelming and crowded at ports. Mid-size ships (2,000-3,000 passengers) balance variety with manageability. Small ships (under 1,000 passengers) access intimate ports larger ships can't reach but offer fewer onboard options.

What's the difference between ocean cruises and river cruises?

Ocean cruises feature larger ships with extensive amenities, sea days for relaxation, and port-intensive itineraries. River cruises use smaller vessels (100-200 passengers), dock directly in city centers, and typically include shore excursions in the fare. I recommend river cruises for travelers who want cultural immersion with minimal planning and less time at sea.

Are expedition cruises too rugged for casual travelers?

Not anymore. Modern expedition ships range from adventure-focused to surprisingly luxurious. They offer smaller group sizes, expert naturalists, and access to remote destinations - but many now include fine dining, spa services, and comfortable accommodations. They're ideal for travelers prioritizing destination over ship amenities.

When Should I Book and Who Should I Book With?

Timing and booking method both significantly impact your cruise experience - and often your wallet. 82% of those who have cruised say they plan to cruise again, which means repeat cruisers book early for the best selection. For popular itineraries like Alaska summer cruises, the most desirable staterooms sell out 9-12 months ahead. Travel advisors regularly report clients coming to them in March hoping to book July Alaska cruises with balcony cabins - and finding very limited availability.

How far in advance should I book my cruise?

For Alaska summer sailings, holiday cruises, or any trip requiring specific stateroom types (accessible cabins, connecting rooms for families), book 9-12 months ahead. Caribbean cruises offer more flexibility. Wave season (January-March) brings promotional pricing, but don't wait for deals if you need specific accommodations.

Why should I use a travel advisor instead of booking directly?

You won't pay more - travel advisors earn commission from cruise lines, not from you. What you gain is personalized recommendations, someone who handles booking details and advocates for you if problems arise, and often access to group rates or onboard credits unavailable when booking direct. For first-time cruisers especially, having someone to call with questions is invaluable.

What's the best way to find cruise deals?

Beyond wave season promotions, consider repositioning cruises (when ships move between seasonal routes), shoulder season sailings, and group bookings. Travel advisors often have access to promotions not publicly advertised - and can tell you when a "deal" isn't actually a good value for your specific needs.

How far ahead should I book shore excursions?

Popular excursions - especially in Alaska (helicopter glacier tours, White Pass Railway) - sell out months before sailing. I recommend researching options before your cruise and booking high-priority experiences as early as possible, whether through the cruise line or reputable third-party operators.

What Does My Cruise Fare Actually Include?

This question generates more confusion than almost any other, and cruise line marketing doesn't always help clarify matters. The short answer: your base fare covers more than you might expect, but less than an all-inclusive resort. Understanding what's included helps you budget realistically - the average cost per passenger, per day for a cruise in 2024 was approximately $259, but that figure varies dramatically based on what extras you purchase.

What's covered in my cruise fare?

Your base fare includes accommodations, main dining room and buffet meals, room service (basic items), non-alcoholic beverages (water, coffee, tea, juice at meals), pool and fitness facilities, and most onboard entertainment - shows, live music, activities, and enrichment programs.

What costs extra onboard?

Specialty restaurants ($25-75 per person), alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and premium coffees, Wi-Fi, spa services, casino, shore excursions, and gratuities (unless prepaid) all cost extra. Many cruise lines offer packages bundling drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities at a discount - worth evaluating based on your habits.

Are drink packages actually worth the money?

Calculate based on your habits. Most drink packages cost $60-100 per day and require purchase for all adults in the stateroom. If you'll have 5+ drinks daily including specialty coffees, packages often save money. Light drinkers typically spend less paying per drink. I help clients do this math before they sail.

How do gratuities work and how much should I budget?

Major cruise lines charge $16-18 per person per day for guests in standard staterooms, and $18-21 per person per day for guests in suites - though rates vary by line and have been increasing annually. These are automatically added to your account unless prepaid. The gratuities go to your stateroom attendant, dining staff, and behind-the-scenes crew. You can adjust the amount at guest services, but I strongly discourage reducing it - these crew members work incredibly hard.

How Do I Pick the Right Stateroom Without Regretting My Choice?

Stateroom selection affects both budget and daily experience more than most first-time cruisers realize. I've heard from travel advisors whose clients booked inside cabins to save money, then felt claustrophobic by day three. I've also heard about clients who splurged on suites for Caribbean cruises when they spent virtually no time in the room. Understanding the tradeoffs helps you make a choice you'll be happy with.

What's the real difference between stateroom categories?

Inside cabins have no windows but offer the lowest price and the darkest sleeping conditions - some travelers love this. Ocean view cabins have windows or portholes, adding natural light and connection to the outside. Balcony cabins provide private outdoor space - particularly valuable on scenic itineraries. Suites add square footage, enhanced service, and often access to exclusive areas.

Does cabin location on the ship matter?

More than most people realize. Mid-ship cabins experience less motion. Lower decks feel more stable but may have more noise from public areas. Higher decks offer better views but more movement in rough seas. Avoid cabins directly below the pool deck, theater, or nightclub unless you're a heavy sleeper.

Is a balcony worth the extra cost?

A balcony is always a better experience than an inside or ocean view cabin - the private outdoor space transforms your cruise, especially on scenic itineraries. The question isn't whether balconies are better (they are), but whether the upgrade fits your budget. For Alaska cruising, where you might wake to glaciers outside your window, many travelers find the upgrade absolutely worth it. For Caribbean itineraries where you're spending most time at the pool or ashore, budget-conscious cruisers can have a wonderful experience in less expensive cabins and use the savings for excursions or onboard experiences.

Do I need to worry about which side of the ship to book?

Not as much as you might think. In Alaska's Inside Passage, ships rotate at scenic locations like Glacier Bay so all passengers get excellent views regardless of cabin side. You'll see glaciers, wildlife, and coastline from both port and starboard throughout the voyage. Rather than obsessing over ship side, focus on cabin location (mid-ship for stability) and category (balcony if budget allows).

What Do I Need to Do Before Embarkation Day?

Preparation prevents the most common first-cruise problems. The travelers who have stressful embarkation experiences are usually the ones who assumed everything would work out without much planning. A little advance preparation - documents, packing, logistics - makes the difference between starting your vacation relaxed versus starting it frazzled.

What documents do I need for a cruise?

Requirements vary by itinerary. Closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same U.S. port) technically require only a birth certificate and government ID for U.S. citizens, but I always recommend a passport. Any cruise visiting Canada, international one-way cruises, or cruises requiring flights to reach the port absolutely need valid passports with at least six months validity.

What should I pack for a cruise?

Layers regardless of destination - ships are aggressively air-conditioned, and weather varies in port. Comfortable walking shoes for excursions. Formal attire if your ship has dress-code evenings (not all do). All prescription medications in original containers with enough supply for the trip plus a few extra days. Power strips without surge protectors (surge protectors are prohibited). Most forgotten items can be purchased onboard, though at premium prices.

Should I arrive the day before my cruise?

Yes - this is one of my strongest recommendations. If your flight is delayed, canceled, or your luggage lost, you miss the ship entirely, and the cruise line isn't responsible for getting you to the next port. Arriving a day early eliminates this stress completely and lets you explore the departure city. The cost of one hotel night is worth the peace of mind.

How does embarkation day actually work?

You'll receive a boarding window - arriving early doesn't mean boarding early, so don't rush to the terminal at 10 AM. Check luggage with porters at the terminal entrance (tip $2-3 per bag), complete security screening, check in at the counter, and board. Your stateroom may not be ready until early afternoon, but dining venues are open for lunch. Keep essentials (medications, swimsuit, valuables) in your carry-on.

What Should I Expect from Daily Life Onboard?

First-time cruisers often worry about being bored, overwhelmed, or not knowing what to do. In reality, the challenge is usually choosing among too many options rather than finding things to do. Understanding how dining, activities, and daily routines work helps you relax into the experience rather than feeling confused or behind.

How does dining work on a cruise ship?

Most ships offer multiple included options: main dining rooms (either assigned seating times or flexible "anytime" dining), buffets, casual venues like pizza stations or delis, and room service for basic items. Specialty restaurants cost extra ($25-75 per person) and require reservations - book these early in the cruise or before sailing if the ship allows.

What is there to do on sea days?

More than you can possibly fit in. Pool activities, fitness classes, spa treatments, trivia and games, cooking demonstrations, enrichment lectures, casino, art auctions, live music, Broadway-caliber shows, movies, sports courts, and simply reading on your balcony. Most cruisers find sea days fly by and wish they had more.

What's the dress code on cruise ships?

Daytime is casual - resort wear, shorts, swimsuits by the pool. Evening dress codes vary by cruise line and have relaxed considerably. Most ships have "smart casual" evenings (nice pants and collared shirts for men, sundresses or dressy casual for women) with one or two formal nights per week in the main dining room. The buffet and casual venues remain casual all evening.

How do onboard purchases and payments work?

You register a credit card at check-in and receive a cruise card that serves as your room key, boarding pass for getting on and off the ship, and charge card for all purchases. Everything goes on your account - no cash needed except for tips in port. You'll receive a final statement before disembarkation to review charges.

Should I Book Shore Excursions Through the Ship or On My Own?

This is genuinely a judgment call, and the right answer depends on the specific excursion, port, and your risk tolerance. Independent booking can save significant money with no problems. But independent tours that run late have also caused travelers to miss their ships. Understanding the tradeoffs helps you make smart decisions for each port.

What's the main advantage of booking through the cruise line?

If a cruise-line-booked excursion runs late, the ship waits for you. This guarantee matters most for excursions that travel far from port or have tight timing. For a full-day salmon fishing tour in Alaska or an excursion to Chichen Itza from Cozumel, the peace of mind is worth the premium. The ship will not wait for independent travelers who return late.

When does booking independently make sense?

For simple activities close to port - walking tours, beach access, snorkeling near the pier - independent booking often saves 30-50% with minimal risk. Research operators thoroughly, read recent reviews, and build in generous buffer time to return to the ship. I give clients specific recommendations for ports where I know reliable independent operators.

Can I just explore ports on my own without any tour?

Absolutely. Many ports are walkable, with attractions, beaches, shops, and restaurants accessible without organized excursions. Research each port beforehand, note your ship's departure time, set multiple alarms, and never cut it close returning. Walking off the ship on your own is one of the pleasures of cruising.

What are tender ports and why do they matter?

Some ports lack docks large enough for cruise ships, requiring passengers to take small boats (tenders) from ship to shore. Tendering adds time, can be canceled in rough weather, and presents challenges for travelers with mobility limitations. Check your itinerary for tender ports - your travel advisor can flag which ports may be problematic.

How Do I Stay Healthy and Safe on a Cruise?

Cruises are remarkably safe - far more so than headlines about illness outbreaks suggest. Modern ships maintain rigorous sanitation protocols and have surprisingly capable medical facilities. Understanding what to expect, what precautions to take, and when travel insurance matters helps you travel with confidence.

What medical facilities are available onboard?

Cruise ships have medical centers staffed by licensed doctors and nurses capable of handling most emergencies and common illnesses. However, care is expensive without travel insurance, and serious conditions may require medical evacuation - which can cost $50,000 or more. Ships carry basic medications but may not have specific prescriptions.

How do I avoid seasickness?

Choose mid-ship, lower-deck cabins for the most stable ride. Over-the-counter remedies (Dramamine, Bonine, meclizine) work for many travelers - take before symptoms start, not after. Prescription scopolamine patches offer longer-lasting relief. Ginger supplements and acupressure wristbands help some travelers. Modern stabilizers make most cruises surprisingly smooth.

Is norovirus really the concern the news makes it seem?

Outbreaks make headlines but affect a tiny fraction of cruisers. Ships maintain more rigorous sanitation than most hotels or restaurants. Your best defense: wash hands frequently with soap and water (more effective than hand sanitizer against norovirus), especially before eating and after touching handrails or elevator buttons.

Do I really need travel insurance?

Yes - I consider it essential, not optional. Standard health insurance often doesn't cover international medical care or evacuation. Trip cancellation, delay, and interruption coverage protects your investment if illness, family emergencies, or weather disrupts your plans. Policies typically cost 5-10% of trip cost. For clients with pre-existing conditions, I help find policies that provide appropriate coverage.

How Can I Stay Connected While Cruising?

Connectivity has improved dramatically but remains the most common source of first-cruise frustration. Understanding your options - and setting realistic expectations - prevents disappointment. The good news: you now have more choices than ever, including carrier plans specifically designed for cruise ships.

Will my cell phone work on a cruise ship?

Ships have cellular service through satellite networks, but standard roaming rates are shockingly expensive - $2-5 per minute for calls, $2+ per text. However, major carriers now offer cruise-specific plans. AT&T International Day Pass costs $20 per day and covers 400+ cruise ships with unlimited talk and text plus 500MB of data. Verizon offers a similar Cruise Daily Pass at $20 per day on 200+ ships. Both only charge for days you actually use the service. Without these plans, keep your phone in airplane mode at sea.

What about eSIM options for cruise connectivity?

GigSky offers eSIM plans specifically for cruisers, starting at $18.99 with data packages from 512MB to 20GB. Their Cruise + Land plans work both at sea and in 200+ countries, meaning continuous coverage whether you're on the ship or exploring ports. The eSIM installs digitally - no physical SIM swapping required. Just note that cruise ship cellular networks only activate once you're 6-12 nautical miles from shore, typically about an hour after departure.

Is cruise ship Wi-Fi good enough for video calls?

It's improved considerably but remains slower and more expensive than land-based service. Expect to pay $15-30 per day for basic packages suitable for email and messaging. Premium packages ($40+ per day) handle video calling and streaming better but still not perfectly. Download entertainment, maps, and reading material before your cruise.

When's the best time to use data-heavy apps?

In port. Wi-Fi is often available in cruise terminals and many port cafes and shops. If you have an AT&T or Verizon cruise plan, your land coverage is included on the same days you use sea coverage. For extended port exploration, your carrier's international day pass rates apply. Planning your heavy data usage for port days helps manage costs.

What Should I Know About Different Cruise Regions?

This question has no simple answer because the cruise industry has become remarkably diverse. Alaska cruises bear little resemblance to Caribbean beach vacations. River cruises operate completely differently than ocean voyages. Expedition cruises to Antarctica attract different travelers than Mediterranean cultural itineraries. I'm an expert in West Coast cruises - Alaska, Mexican Riviera, Pacific Coast - but clients often ask how these compare to other options. Understanding regional differences helps you choose itineraries that match your priorities.

What makes Alaska cruises special - and challenging?

Alaska cruises run May through September, with peak wildlife viewing in June-July and better weather odds in late summer. The scenery is genuinely spectacular - glaciers, wildlife, Inside Passage fjords - and unlike anything else in cruising. Bring layers and rain gear regardless of when you sail. Alaska is the top cruising destination in North America, with over 1.3 million passengers in 2024 - book early for best stateroom selection.

How do Mexican Riviera cruises differ from Caribbean?

Mexican Riviera cruises depart year-round from California ports (Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego), making them accessible without flights for West Coast travelers. Ports like Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas, and Mazatlán offer beaches, water sports, culture, and excellent food. The Pacific is typically cooler than the Caribbean, and the ports have distinctly different character - more authentic Mexican culture, less cruise-tourist infrastructure.

Is a Canada/New England cruise worth considering?

Fall foliage cruises (September-October) are the signature Canada/New England experience - stunning autumn colors, historic ports like Boston, Portland, Halifax, and Quebec City. These itineraries suit travelers interested in history, culture, seafood, and autumn scenery rather than beaches. Ships are typically mid-size, the atmosphere trends traditional, and the experience feels very different from Caribbean cruising.

What about Great Lakes or river cruises?

Great Lakes cruises offer domestic sailing through remarkable scenery - Mackinac Island, Door County, the Apostle Islands - without ocean conditions. River cruises (Rhine, Danube, Mississippi, Columbia) prioritize cultural immersion over ship amenities, with smaller vessels, included excursions, and direct city-center access. Both suit travelers who want destination focus over shipboard entertainment.

What Accessibility Options Exist for Travelers with Mobility Needs?

This is where my background as a recreational therapist becomes particularly valuable. I've helped travelers navigate cruises with wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen requirements, and various mobility limitations - and I know which questions to ask and which cruise lines handle accessibility best. Even experienced cruisers often have new accessibility questions after health changes, and multigenerational groups frequently include family members with different mobility levels.

Are cruise ships genuinely accessible for wheelchair users?

Modern cruise ships offer accessible staterooms with wider doorways (typically 32 inches versus standard 23 inches), roll-in showers with fold-down benches, grab bars, and lowered closet rods. Public areas are generally accessible with elevators to all passenger decks. Cruise ships have spacious corridors to accommodate 180-degree turns for wheelchairs, and most decks are accessible through automatic doors. However, accessible cabins are limited - on most ships, only 2-4% of staterooms are fully accessible - so booking early is essential.

What about travelers with limited mobility who don't use wheelchairs full-time?

Ships accommodate various mobility levels. Elevators access all passenger decks, though distances can be significant on mega-ships - travel advisors report that guests commonly walk 8,000-10,000 steps daily just getting around larger vessels. Many travelers bring collapsible mobility scooters or walkers for easier navigation. I help clients choose appropriate ship sizes and cabin locations based on their specific mobility situation.

Can travelers with mobility challenges participate in shore excursions?

45% of cruise travelers booked an accessible shore excursion in the past year, and options continue expanding. Cruise lines indicate accessibility levels in excursion descriptions. Some ports are more accessible than others - historic European cities with cobblestones present more challenges than purpose-built Caribbean facilities. Tender ports present significant challenges for wheelchair users since boarding requires navigating stairs.

What mobility equipment can I bring onboard?

Wheelchairs, walkers, rollators, and mobility scooters are all permitted. Assistive devices should fit through a standard stateroom entry doorway which is at least 23 inches wide, while accessible staterooms have wider doors at least 32 inches wide. If bringing a scooter, verify cabin doorway width, storage space, and charging capabilities in advance. Some cruise lines partner with rental companies that deliver equipment directly to the ship.

How should I communicate accessibility needs when booking?

Work with a travel advisor experienced in accessible travel - we know which ships and cabin categories best accommodate specific needs. Cruise lines require 60 days advance notice for sign language interpreting services and 30 days advance notice for special equipment or services to accommodate disabilities. Provide detailed information about mobility equipment, bathroom requirements, and shore excursion interests. Follow up directly with the cruise line's accessibility department to confirm all accommodations.

Can I Celebrate Special Occasions on a Cruise?

Cruises provide unique settings for celebrations - birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, memorials, and reunions. I've helped travelers plan everything from surprise birthday dinners to shipboard wedding ceremonies to meaningful ash-scattering services. Understanding what's possible (and what requires advance planning) helps you create memorable celebrations.

How can I celebrate a birthday or anniversary onboard?

Cruise lines accommodate celebrations with special cakes, stateroom decorations, flowers, and preferred dining arrangements - most require advance notice and involve additional charges. Let your travel advisor know about special occasions when booking so we can arrange appropriate recognition. Surprise celebrations can include decorated cabins, special menus, and coordinated timing with dining staff.

Can we actually get married on a cruise ship?

Most major cruise lines offer wedding packages ranging from simple captain-performed ceremonies to elaborate celebrations with professional photography, cakes, and receptions. Legal requirements vary by cruise line, port of departure, and whether you marry at sea or in port. Some couples have legal ceremonies at home and symbolic shipboard celebrations; others complete legal marriages during port visits with authorized officiants.

Is it possible to scatter ashes or hold a memorial at sea?

Cruise lines generally accommodate ash-scattering ceremonies, typically performed from the stern during scheduled times. Notify the cruise line in advance and understand any regulations regarding the process. Some families book cruises specifically for this purpose, combining a meaningful tribute with a voyage to significant destinations.

How do I plan a group cruise for a reunion or milestone celebration?

Group cruises (typically 8+ staterooms) offer benefits including group dining arrangements, private event space, onboard credits, and sometimes complimentary cabins for organizers. I handle logistics for group bookings - coordinating deposits, managing communication among multiple families, arranging celebrations, and ensuring everyone's needs are addressed. Multigenerational reunions have become one of my specialties.

Are cruises good for honeymoons?

Cruises offer excellent honeymoon value - accommodations, meals, entertainment, and transportation to multiple destinations at predictable pricing. Unpack once and visit several ports without travel logistics. Notify your travel advisor and the cruise line for honeymoon recognition, which typically includes special touches like champagne, flowers, or enhanced dining. I help couples choose itineraries that balance romance, adventure, and relaxation based on their preferences.

The Right Questions Lead to the Right Cruise

Every traveler who contacts me has different questions - and that's exactly how it should be. A first-time cruiser nervous about seasickness needs different guidance than an experienced traveler planning their parents' 50th anniversary celebration. A solo traveler has different priorities than a family coordinating four generations.

What I've learned from years of matching travelers with cruises is that the questions you ask reveal what matters most to you. And when you work with someone who listens carefully to those questions, you end up with a cruise that exceeds expectations rather than one that merely meets them.

If you're planning your first cruise - or your fifteenth - and have questions I haven't addressed here, I'd welcome the conversation. Reach out through Flow Voyages, and let's find the cruise that's right for your situation, your interests, and your budget. The best cruise isn't the most expensive one or the trendiest one - it's the one that fits your specific needs.

Written by: James Hills

Pro-BloggerWest Coast Cruise ExpertThought Leader

James is an avid fan of all types of cruising but especially enjoys exploring the Pacific coastal regions since it perfectly captures the elements that he is passionate about, including natural beauty, conservation, opportunities to explore new cultures, and meeting some fantastic new people too.