How to Choose a Mediterranean Cruise Line

Mediterranean Cruise lines, one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry, offer a wide variety of interesting destinations and activities for all ages. Here are steps on how you choose a Mediterranean cruise line that suits your travel needs

STEP 1: Decide where and when you want to cruise and the port you want to embark from. There are Caribbean and Asian sails nearly year-round. Mediterranean cruises usually take place only in the summer.

STEP 2: Deal with a Mediterranean cruise-only travel agent or an online agency that specializes in Mediterranean cruise vacations. They are more likely to have access to specials and cruise deals.

STEP 3: Outline the activities that appeal to you: ports of call, shore excursions, onboard facilities and amenities.

STEP 4: Decide who will be joining you on the cruise. Families have different needs and entertainment requirements than singles or couples.

STEP 5: Decide if you have a preference about ship size. Large ships have more entertainment choices, while small ships have a more personal approach to service.

STEP 6: Determine your budget. Mediterranean cruise lines give discounts for early bookings. You can also affect your costs by altering cruise dates, the length of your cruise and the region you sail to.

STEP 7: Choose the level of formality you prefer. Some ships demand formal or business attire at certain dinners. Other ships cater to vacationers who want to wear only casual clothing.

STEP 8: Ask about the typical age group of those sailing on a particular line or ship. This can help you determine whether you'll be compatible with your fellow passengers.

Tips and warnings

- Bring along toiletries, film and sunscreen. They can be quite expensive onboard.

- Plan your budget for tips to shipboard waiters, room stewards and service personnel. Ships often have suggested amounts, depending on the length of the cruise.

- Be aware that port fees are often not included in advertised prices. They can add significantly to your cruise costs.

- Pack light. Getting on and off ships is not as easy as picking up your luggage at the airport.

That’s it! Hope you choose Mediterranean cruise line that suits you and have great Mediterranean cruise vacation!