Cruises: planning and tips

In short: On a cruise you live in a cabin aboard a ship that calls at various ports. The choice of cabin location, route type, and onboard language strongly affects the experience.

In more detail: Interior cabins are usually cheaper, while outside and balcony cabins offer daylight and a view.

In detail

• Cabin choice: Location on the ship affects how much motion you feel; middle, lower decks sway less.
• Excursions: Shore excursions can be booked through the cruise line or arranged independently; independent arrangements are often cheaper but riskier if delayed.
• Seasickness: Preventive measures such as acupressure bands or medication help sensitive people.
• Onboard language: International ships often use English or another main language onboard, which affects communication.
• Tipping and extra costs: Many cruises automatically charge service fees in addition to the trip price.
• Visas and documents: Depending on the route, individual ports may require separate entry documents.
• Travel insurance: Trip cancellation and overseas health insurance is especially important for cruises (reiseversicherungen-ueberblick, hoehenkrankheit-und-akklimatisierung).