Selecting A Cruise

At first glance, a cruise seems more expensive than a traditional honeymoon, but for an accurate comparison, it is vital to remember that certain costs are included with the cruise fare. The majority of the gourmet dining, including sumptuous late-night buffets, room service, and round-the-clock treats, is included, as are comedians, Vegas-style revue shows, and countless musical venues.

On the other hand, gratuities, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, spa treatments, shore excursions, and souvenirs are not included. It is possible, however, to enjoy a fabulous vacation without accumulating excessive charges. Nevertheless, extra costs should be considered when deciding if a cruise honeymoon is appropriate. Booking early, even up to a year in advance, can often lead to lower prices, leaving extra travel money to indulge in decadent treats while on board.

When selecting a honeymoon cruise, a couple should consider the most appealing itinerary. Seven-night Caribbean cruises are the most popular honeymoon choices, but Alaskan cruises, European voyages, Mexican itineraries and other destinations provide equally exotic opportunities for adventure and romance. Many cruise lines offer Sunday and Monday departures convenient for honeymooners, allowing them adequate travel time without cutting short wedding festivities.

Cruise ships offer different types of cabins, and higher priced cabins generally offer greater amenities. While shipboard activities are the same for all passengers, more expensive cabins may be roomier, offer private balconies, mini-bars, complimentary use of spa robes, or priority check-in to circumvent long departure lines. These features are well worth the extra cost to provide an unforgettable, extravagant honeymoon.

The time of year also affect whether or not a cruise is a wise honeymoon choice. Caribbean hurricane season runs mid-June through mid-November, and while cruises are not often cancelled, itineraries may drastically change to avoid storms. Even during calm weather, the ship's motion can be disconcerting, and if a couple has never cruised before, a land-based honeymoon may be a safer option than risking seasickness, if possible, a shore cruise prior to booking the honeymoon can offer a glimpse of cruising life, and a couple could determine if a longer voyage celebrating their marriage is the best choice.

For many couples, the convenience of a cruise is a significant factor in honeymoon choice. After the frantic pace of wedding planning, final preparations, and the hectic festivities themselves, a cruise offers the ultimate relaxation of unpacking a single time while enjoying different ports of call and a wide variety of experiences. There is no need to drive anywhere other than the port, the cruise arranges shore excursions through reputable vendors, and the couple can relax and enjoy the start of their life together.

Honeymoon Cruise Tips: What To Pack

After selecting a cruise, the couple must pack carefully to insure that no necessity is left behind. Cruise ships do have basic items available on board for a nominal fee, but if a specialized item is forgotten, there is no discount store or pharmacy available for a quick stop. Sunscreen, bug spray, comfortable shoes, formal-wear, film, bathing suits, medication, and other necessities should be packed just like for a land-based vacation. Each cruise line offers specific guidelines about dress code and other packing issues, and that information will be available when the tickets arrive, generally two to four weeks before departure.

Cruise ships require specific documentation for passengers to board. Either a birth certificate with driver's license or valid passport is required, and for a newly married couple, it may be necessary to provide a copy of the marriage license, especially if the bride's documentation does not reflect her married name. These documents should be stowed in carry-on luggage, since checked bags may not be available for several hours.

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