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Plan Your Cruise.
Do It Right.
When to book, what to pack, how to choose a cabin, and everything else you need to know before you board. Practical guides for first-timers and experienced cruisers.
Topics
Planning Essentials
When to Book
The best cruise pricing windows, when to use early-bird rates vs. last-minute deals, and how far in advance to book Alaska vs. Caribbean.
Guide coming soonCruise Gratuities
How much each cruise line charges, who gets the money, and whether prepaying makes sense. Current rates range from $16 to $20+ per person per day.
Guide coming soonWhat to Pack
Cruise packing lists for Alaska, Caribbean, and Gulf Coast itineraries. What the ship provides, what you need to bring, and what to leave home.
Guide coming soonInternet Packages
Every major cruise line's internet package compared. Pre-purchase pricing, Starlink upgrades, and whether the package is worth it for your trip.
Guide coming soonMotion Sickness
Prevention, treatment, and what actually works. Cabin location strategies, prescription patches, and the remedies cruise doctors actually recommend.
Guide coming soonFirst-Time Planning
What nobody tells you before you board — the mistakes first-time cruisers make and how to avoid every one of them.
Guide coming soonFirst-Timer
The 10-Point Pre-Cruise Checklist
Everything first-time cruisers wish they'd known before boarding. Print it, save it, use it.
All Checklists- 1Book 6–12 months in advance for Alaska; 3–6 months for Caribbean
- 2Choose a cabin location based on motion sensitivity (midship, lower decks)
- 3Pre-purchase drink packages and specialty dining before boarding (cheaper)
- 4Book shore excursions in advance — popular tours sell out
- 5Pack motion sickness medication even if you've never needed it
- 6Bring a power strip (no surge protector) — cabins have 1–2 outlets
- 7Download the cruise line app before boarding for onboard navigation
- 8Arrive the night before and stay near the port
- 9Set a daily budget for onboard spending — it adds up fast
- 10Bring a reusable water bottle — ship water is safe to drink