How to book a cruise for the first time (+ booking tips)
Cruise travel is fascinating because it bundles so much into a single trip – accommodation, meals, ports of call – that it can feel a little overwhelming at first.
I’ve spent time working in the cruise line sales department, so I understand how the system works, even if I’ve never booked a cruise as a passenger myself.
For someone new to cruising, there are a lot of choices to think about: cabin types, itineraries, add-ons, and payment deadlines. It’s easy to see why first-time cruisers might feel unsure about where to start.
The thing is, booking a cruise for the first time doesn’t have to be intimidating. Once you know which decisions really matter at the booking stage and which can wait, the process becomes much simpler.
I’ve shared before how to pick your first cruise, but what about actually securing your cabin and navigating the booking process?
If you’re considering your first cruise and want a clear walkthrough of booking, this guide is for you…
How to book a cruise for the first time
1. Decide where to book your cruise
There isn’t one right place to book a cruise – and that’s often what makes the decision feel harder than it needs to be. Most first-time cruisers come across a few common options, each with its own advantages.
Booking directly with the cruise line is usually the most straightforward route. Everything is handled in one place, from selecting your cabin to managing payments, and some people simply prefer dealing directly with the cruise line from the start.
Travel agents are another common option. Even though you’re usually not paying extra for their service, they can help explain choices, answer questions, and walk you through the booking if you’re unsure. Sometimes, they may also have access to perks like onboard credit or promotional offers, depending on the sailing.
Cruise comparison sites can be useful at the browsing stage. They allow you to see different itineraries, prices, and cabin types side by side, which can help you narrow things down before you’re ready to book.
2. Check timing, rules, and documents
Most first-time cruisers book 6 to 12 months in advance, which usually balances cabin choice with stable pricing. Cruise fares are dynamic, so waiting too long can mean higher fares or limited availability on popular itineraries. Last-minute deals do appear occasionally, but options are often restricted.
Before booking, it helps to check a few practical details carefully:
Deposits and final payment: A deposit is required to hold your cabin, with the remaining balance due closer to sailing. The timing varies by cruise line and voyage length.
Cancellation and repricing policies: Rules differ between cruise lines. Some allow free changes up to a certain date, while penalties increase as departure approaches. A few lines allow fare adjustments if prices drop before final payment, but this isn’t guaranteed.
Documentation requirements: Most international cruises require a valid passport. Requirements depend on itinerary and nationality, so it’s best to confirm early.
3. Understand what the cruise fare includes
When you look at cruise prices, what you see at first isn’t always what you’ll end up paying. Cruise fares are usually broken into several parts, and understanding these can save confusion and surprises when you book.
Most headline prices don’t include taxes, port charges, or gratuities. Port charges are usually a fixed fee per port visited, added to the total cost for the sailing. Gratuities – the daily tips for the crew – are often charged automatically per person, per day. Both are standard, and combined they can add a noticeable amount to the total price.
Solo travellers or groups with an odd number of passengers may see a single supplement. This is an extra charge for occupying a cabin alone. On many ships, solo travellers pay close to the cost of two people sharing a cabin. Some cruise lines offer reduced single supplements or dedicated solo cabins, but rates vary by cruise line, ship, itinerary, cabin category, and promotion. In practice, the surcharge can range from discounted solo fares to paying significantly more than the advertised per-person price.
Some fares are non-refundable. These are usually cheaper, but once booked, changes can be limited or costly. Knowing which fare rules apply can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.
Before booking, check exactly what your fare includes. Most cruises cover accommodation, main meals, and standard onboard entertainment. Extras – specialty dining, drinks packages, shore excursions, wifi, or spa services – are usually billed separately.
4. Choose your cabin type
One of the earliest decisions on a cruise is picking a cabin. Your choice depends on your comfort, budget, and how you want to experience life on board.
Inside cabins are usually the most budget-friendly. You won’t have a window, but you’ll have a private space to sleep and store your things. Oceanview cabins give you natural light and a view of the sea, which can make your cabin feel more spacious. Balconies add extra room to relax outdoors, and suites provide the most space and luxury, often with perks like priority boarding or upgraded amenities.
Some cruise lines also offer guarantee cabins (GTY). These are usually cheaper because the exact cabin location is assigned later. You might end up with a cabin on a lower deck or in a less-desired spot, but some cruisers happily trade certainty for savings.
Think about your priorities. Do you want a quiet space to retreat after busy days on board? Is having a view or private balcony worth the extra cost for you? Or is keeping the price lower more important? Understanding what matters most to you will make choosing a cabin far less stressful and more satisfying.
5. Book your cruise
At some point, you do have to click “book” – or, if you’re working with a travel agent, simply say “yes”. By then, the major decisions should already be settled: your itinerary, your sailing dates, and your cabin type.
From there, the process is fairly straightforward. You’ll place a deposit, receive a booking confirmation, and get a reference number that everything else is tied to. Once final payment is made, the hardest part is done. After that, it’s mostly waiting for your sailing date to arrive.
6. Prepare add-ons and special requests
Once the cruise is booked, not everything needs to be decided immediately. Most shore excursions, dining options, and drink packages can be added later through your booking portal or travel agent.
Some things are worth arranging early, though. Popular excursions can sell out, and special requests – accessibility needs, dietary requirements, or medical notes – are best flagged as soon as your booking is confirmed. Celebration requests, like birthdays or anniversaries, should also be submitted early (I’d say at least a week before sailing) so the crew has time to prepare.
Tips for first-time cruisers – how to save money and choose wisely
What is the best way to book a cruise? Booking through a specialised travel agent can be the easiest route for first-timers. Travel agents often have access to group cabin blocks, which can include perks like onboard credit, promotional pricing, or priority cabins not visible online. This can simplify the process, especially when documentation, fare types, and cabin choices feel overwhelming.
How to find the best deals on cruises? The best way to find cruise deals is often through wave season, the cruise industry’s peak booking period from December to March, or by checking travel agent group offers. Prices on popular itineraries can rise closer to sailing, though last-minute discounts sometimes appear. First-timers usually benefit more from clarity and value than from chasing every tiny price drop.
Which cabin should you choose? For first-time cruisers, inside cabins typically offer the best value, giving a lower price without missing out on the cruise experience. Guarantee cabins can save a bit more, but the exact location is assigned later. Balconies and suites are great if the budget allows, but they aren’t necessary for a first cruise. Read more about inside cabins here.
What about add-ons? All optional. First-time cruisers usually do just fine with included meals, standard entertainment, and pools. Shore excursions or specialty options can be added later if desired, especially for activities that are time-sensitive or difficult to do independently.
Which cruises are best for first timers? Shorter itineraries, popular destinations, and mainstream cruise lines are usually the easiest for a first cruise experience. These sailings give a sense of what cruising is really like without being overwhelming. Read more about the best first cruises here.
Booking your first cruise is just the start. Once that’s done, all that’s left is to enjoy the countdown to your adventure.
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