Freephone
9am - 9pm
Our sales team are here to help 7 days a week. For international Callers call 02072064176
Freephone
9am - 9pm
Planning your sea adventure as a first time cruiser can be both exciting and overwhelming but with so many options, it can be tricky to know where to start. Should you opt for cruises from the UK or explore wider regions on a fly cruise ? Which cruise line is the best fit for you? And how do you decide between an inside room or a balcony cabin? In this beginner-friendly guide, you will get trusted travel advice based on experiences by real cruisers and industry experts with everything you need to know when choosing your first cruise. Whether you want beach days, cultural nights, unlimited buffet, there is a cruise that is right for you.
-(1).jpg)
Cruises give you the best of both worlds with travel and relaxation all rolled into one unique experience. A cruise holiday is one of the best ways to explore multiple destinations, try local cuisines, enjoy live shows, relax in a spa or by the poolside in a single trip. With many itineraries sailing across continents, you can unpack once and wake up in a new place every day. For first time cruisers, a cruise holiday is a convenient and exciting way to see the world.
Choosing where to sail from is almost as important as your cruise destination. You can sail from a port in the UK like Southampton, Liverpool, Dover, London, Scotland, Liverpool and more or fly to meet your ship abroad. If you prefer a hassle -free journey and no baggage limits, no-fly cruises from Southampton are popular with many cruise lines sailing to destinations like the Norwegian Fjords, the Canary Islands, Northern Europe and more. Cruises from the UK are ideal for first-timers who want a simpler experience making it an hassle free option for first time cruisers. Fly cruises can get you straight into warmer weather and give you a wider range of destinations to explore. If you don’t mind a short flight, departing from places like Barcelona, Rome, or Athens opens up Mediterranean routes or Asia getaways, Africa cruises sailings, North America cruises and more with time in port and fewer days at sea.
Every cruise line offers a different kind of experience and is an important part of enjoying your holiday as a first time cruiser. If you are looking for large entertainment-packed ships, Royal Caribbean cruises will tick all your boxes. Imagine rock climbing walls, surf simulators, towering water slides, private island parties and lively family friendly atmosphere making Royal Caribbean ideal for families, multigenerational groups or friends. P&O cruises are a favourite among British cruisers with ships that feel like a floating version of home. You will find British menus, afternoon tea and sailings from Southampton. P&O offers both family friendly ships and adult only ships making it a perfect choice for a wide range of cruisers. For a more relaxed and laid back approach, Norwegian cruise line (NCL) freestyle cruising means no set meal times, no dress codes, and a modern feel throughout. It's great for first-timers who don’t want too many formalities. Celebrity cruises offer a step up in luxury and a more sophisticated atmosphere. Enjoy excellent service, stylish design and a quiet vibe on board making it perfect for couples or solo travellers. Whatever you are looking for on your first time cruise, we have the hand picked itineraries and a wide range of cruise lines that will tick all your boxes.
For first time cruisers, it is best to start with shorter sailings that last between 3 to 5 nights so you can get a feel for life at sea. If you are sailing from the UK, the Norwegian Fjords is a popular choice with picturesque towns, dramatic landscapes and an opportunity to spot the aurora borealis. A Mediterranean cruise combines warm weather and delicious local cuisine where you get to visit iconic cities like Barcelona, Rome and Santorini for the perfect fly cruise. For a truly unique experience, set sail on an adventure to one of the most remote destinations onboard a Alaska or Antarctica cruise. A Cruise and Stay is a cruise holiday that combines days on board a ship with hotel stays in iconic cities before or after your cruise making it perfect for first time cruisers looking for a familiar experience. Whether you are looking to explore Royal Caribbean Cruises private islands on a Caribbean cruise, the far east on an Asia cruise or looking for a familiar experience closer to home on a Europe cruise, we have itineraries sailing to all seven continents.
Choosing your cabin as a first time cruiser can be overwhelming for many reasons but your choice of cabin can depend on your personal preference, budget and sailing. An interior cabin is the most budget-friendly option for cruisers who don’t plan on spending much time indoors as it offers no natural light or view of the sea. Outside cabins are offered at a slightly higher price but give you a window or porthole view of the ocean. Balcony or Veranda cabins are bigger than inside and outside cabins equipped with french doors that lead to your own personal outdoor area, complete with chairs and a mini table for you to enjoy the scenery for a higher price point. Suites are the most expensive and luxurious cabins for cruisers that want extravagance at sea, complete with living areas, private balconies, luxurious amenities and unique perks like butler service, private lounges, priority embarkation with some cruise lines offering an outdoor hot tub!. Some other options for cabins that are not found on every cruise line are interconnecting cabins with rooms that lead to each other with interconnecting doors and are great for large groups or families. Family cabins and suites are offered by some family friendly cruise lines and offer a larger area with living areas, bunk beds and even extra rooms or pull out sofas for your littles. Accessible cabins are also available on cruise ships with wider doors, roll-in showers with hand rails and easy access to public areas for the most comfort and convenience.
Cruise sailings are sometimes popular by weather with peak and off-peak periods depending on each destination. Summer cruises are the most popular especially for families but that can mean crowded ships and more expensive fares. For better value and lesser crowds, Spring cruises (April - June) and Autumn cruises (September - October) will tick all your boxes. If you are after a bargain or going on a winter cruise and don’t mind cooler climates on your first time cruise, March or November can be the perfect time to set sail. Please note that seasons can differ from destinations, Australia cruises are perfect for year round sunshine and onboard Caribbean cruises, “dry season” from December to April are the best times to visit. Whenever you are looking to sail as a first time cruiser, we have experienced cruise concierges that will give you first hand advice for the best cruise experience.
Cruises are often offered at a great value but not every cruise line offers all inclusive packages with your cruise fare. You may have to pay for extra perks like gratuities, drinks, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, shore excursions and spa treatments. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean cruises and Carnival cruise line typically charge for these extras while premium lines like Virgin Voyages cruises can include perks like Wi-Fi, tips, gratuities and drinks included in the fare. Regent Seven Seas cruises and Silversea cruises go a step further by including excursions and fine dining. Knowing what is covered on your first time cruise holiday allows you to take advantage of pre-cruise discounts on these packages and helps you avoid surprise costs.
Take advantage of pre booking offers: You can get complimentary perks and extra discounts on your cruise holiday. Find the best cruise deals and Exclusive offers with Cruise 118 at the best price guaranteed.
Book Early: Secure your cabin and shore excursions in advance for the best options and prices.
Understand What’s Included: Check what is included in your fares. Specialty meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities to avoid extra costs.
Pack Smart: Bring essentials like comfortable shoes, sunscreen, power strips, and sea sickness remedies.
Arrive Early: Get to the port early to breeze through boarding and avoid stress.
Stay Organised: Keep important documents, cruise cards, and IDs handy.
Explore the Ship: Familiarise yourself with the layout on embarkation day to avoid getting lost.
Attend the Safety Drill: It’s mandatory and crucial for your safety.
Plan Your Activities: Balance relaxation with fun by scheduling shows, pools, and excursions.
Manage Your Budget: Track onboard spending and consider prepaid packages for drinks or Wi-Fi.
Be Flexible: Weather or itinerary changes happen. Stay open-minded and enjoy the adventure!
Join cruise communities: Facebook groups or online forums offer great first-hand advice and tips.
Exclusive cruise deals
-large_thumb.jpg)
