How to plan a stress-free cruise

A holiday is an opportunity to explore wonderful new places and cultures, whilst relaxing and washing away the stresses of everyday life. As you all well know, a cruise complements this philosophy and can set you up for a holiday that will live long in your memory once you are back home. However, how can you make the planning phase as easy as possible? Well, we’ve got the answers.

Research

One of the best ways to ensure you are choosing the right cruise for you is to research thoroughly. Perhaps the most important deciding factor for any holiday is the destination. Where is that place that you have been dreaming of going to?

With cruising, you do not have to pick just one destination, your cruise ship can take you to a host of different destinations. Cruising itineraries can range anywhere significantly, from just a few days to more than a month, so it is always best to list areas of the world you’d like to go to and then take a look through itineraries to find your perfect match.

Cabins are another important research factor for every passenger. While some passengers think of their cabin or stateroom as their own personal haven and somewhere to relax, others simply see it as a room to sleep and store luggage.

Location on the ship is also key for those who suffer from seasickness, with cabins that are mid-ship and lower down enjoying less movement than the rest of the ship. However, for those who love fresh sea air, a balcony suite can offer you the perfect private view every day and can be worth spending a little bit more on.

Book well in advance for easier payment

This applies to any holiday, not just cruises, but if you book well in advance, you give yourself plenty of time to pay the balance. Paying for your holiday can be one of the most stress-inducing parts of the process, so allow yourself plenty of time.

It is always important to ensure that you have your budget set in advance of researching your cruise. With cruises ranging from mini cruises to epic around the world cruises, budgets can vary hugely between them. Once you know your ideal price, you can add that to your destination choice and start looking at times of year to see what suits you best.

For those who are able to book well in advance, there are often some great deals to be had with Ambassador Cruise Line, and you don’t want to miss out on any potential savings.

Create a checklist

If you like to be super organised, a list will be your best friend. Make sure you research the weather at your chosen destinations, as they could vary from 35 degrees in Istanbul on a Mediterranean cruise to -10 degrees on an Iceland cruise. Once you know what you’re packing for, make an initial list of what you will need and then over the course of a few days, check the list again to ensure you’re not over-packing or under-packing.

When arriving at the port it is always important to ensure that you have the below items in your hand luggage. Larger suitcases are checked in on arrival at the port and are quickly whisked off to your cabin on arrival, so it is always best you keep these items to hand as you will need them for check-in and security:

• Passport, travel insurance and booking confirmation

• Purse/wallet

• Essential medication

• Mobile devices - Tablet, phone, camera

• Toiletries - Sometimes, after a journey to port, it can be nice to freshen up before discovering the ship

Talking of arriving in the port, with our regional port offerings, you can cruise from Bristol, cruise from Tilbury or other ports around the UK. This means you don't need to worry about a large trek just to start your holiday, and you'll be able to access your dream cruise from close to home.

We offer hairdryers, outdoor towels, umbrellas and tea and coffee facilities in certain cabin grades, so there’s even less to bring on board in your luggage.

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Book extras early

You’ve done your research, you’ve seen the excursions available and checked out everything the ship has to offer, but how many of these are bookable in advance? You’ll be able to book a lot of excursions before you even depart, allowing you to plan your own itinerary for the holiday, be it a ferry trip to a remote island, or a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site you’ve been desperate to see. Whatever you decide on, booking in advance means you are guaranteed a space and won’t be left disappointed.

Top tips for a stress-free cruise

• Research

• Book well in advance for easier payment

• Create a checklist

• Book extras early

So, there you have it, some top tips to ensure you have a relaxing holiday before you’ve even set sail.

Discover all the cruise destinations visited by Ambassador Cruise Line and head to our blog page for more tips and advice.