Booked a cruise holiday? While the majority of cruise holidays are trouble free, the prospect can be daunting for new guests.
From booking excursions to finding the best spot to watch the sunset, there’s a few areas where experienced guests are pros.
But don’t worry, Express.co.uk spoke to expert Michael L.Moore, cruise expert and founder of Countdown to Magic, for his top tips for new cruise guests.
Michael said: “A frequently overlooked gem on cruises is the ship’s positioning relative to sunrises and sunsets during port calls.
“Knowing which way your ship will be facing can transform your trip, especially if you have a balcony view.
“Picture waking up to a Venetian sunrise or catching a Santorini sunset without leaving your room.
“A bit of research on the port layout, coupled with the ship’s daily itinerary and a handy sunrise/sunset app, can secure you a front row seat to nature’s most enchanting shows.”
Catching an enchanting sunset view can be a highlight of a cruise holiday and it’s worth putting in the extra research to get the best spot.
Michael added: “While it’s tempting to cram in as many excursions as possible, sometimes less is more.
“Overpacking your itinerary can feel like a mad dash through Space Mountain – exhilarating, but you might miss some subtleties.”
It’s important to factor some down time into a cruise holiday, whether that’s carving out chill out time on the ship or taking some time to explore a city by yourself.
Michael said: “I remember once picking a snorkeling excursion because it was highly rated. But the large group size and rushed pace didn’t suit my style.
“I later discovered that smaller, more intimate groups provided the personalized experience I craved. The takeaway? Know your preferences, and don’t be swayed only by popular opinion.”
Guests who aren’t sure which excursion might be most suitable for them can ask a travel agent or the line for some advice.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
