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Whether you are looking to take an Alaska Cruise or an African adventure, today’s cruise lines provide more than 7,500 different tours for your cruising pleasure.  More than 20 major cruise lines exist today that provide this large itinerary.  With so many choices, getting a few tips on how to choose a cruise can only ensure smooth sailing.

When to Take a Cruise

Many folks are at the mercy of their employers when it comes to holidays, however, if you are one of the lucky people who can chose your timing, indulging in a cruise during the off-season is a great way to save a bundle.

The high season for most of the major cruise lines is June through August, but keep in mind that the destination has an enormous impact on the defined high season.  Places such as the Mediterranean tend to have their busy time during the spring and autumn while Scandinavia and the Baltic Islands are busy from May to September.  Great Britain and Ireland see peaks during the late summer and early autumn as does Portugal, Western France, and the Atlantic Islands.

Alaska cruises run through May to September, while Europe is busiest from April to November due to the weather being at its warmest with the least amount of rainfall.  So if you are looking for a deal, a cruise to this popular area is best enjoyed outside these peak months.

Taking a cruise in what is known as the shoulder season (low season) has many benefits.  The weather can be more appealing, meaning you and your family are not baking under a hot sun while you are trying to enjoy excursions.  It also means fewer visitors, allowing for better chances at spotting wildlife and other attractions.

Deciding Where to Go

A big cruise question is often where to go.  Aside from the usual destinations such as Alaska, the Caribbean and Europe, there are cruise lines that venture into the Indian Ocean, Asia, and South America.  Something to consider when choosing your destination is the route.  Alaska, for example, follows two routes.  The Gulf of Alaska cruises sail further as they are typically one-way trips from Whitter, Seward, or Vancouver.  Ships take the Inside Passage round trip from Vancouver and Seattle and settle in the Alaskan ports of Skagway and Juneau.

Which Cruise Line to Choose

If this is your first cruise, choosing the right ship is critical as each cruise line offers different age groups, activities and dress expectations, others are more family orientated and kid friendly.  This may be the time to utilise a great travel agent or take a little extra time to do some cruise ship research on your own.

Tips on Getting a Cruise Bargain

If you are already signed up with your favourite travel agent or website for bargain alerts, there are still some other tricks to getting a deal.  Most cruise lines want passengers to pay their full balance 60 days prior to the departure.  This means there may be opportunities for last minute deals by checking the cruise lines 59 days before a departure date.  In addition, choosing new destinations or destinations with less demand could also land you a deal on your next cruise.