Booking your first cruise is exciting, and it’s completely normal to have a million questions running through your mind.
Will the atmosphere be welcoming? Will it be easy to meet people? What should I consider when choosing a cruise line?
The first thing to know is that cruising has become more inclusive than ever, and many cruise lines now cater specifically to LGBTQ travelers. All it takes is a bit of research and planning to find the right cruise for you.
Finding Your Perfect Floating Match
You need to pick a cruise in the same way you would any other vacation destination.
Where some cruises are all about the socializing and lively nightlife, others focus more on relaxation and wellness.
Before you book, take a closer look at the cruise line’s inclusivity policies, onboard events, and the atmosphere in general. Reading reviews from other travelers is a great way to tell whether a specific cruise is right for you.
Then there’s the itinerary. Perhaps you’re all for tropical beaches, or maybe booking an Alaska cruise from Vancouver is more your speed. What you need to do is look at the cruise routes and excursions with your preferences in mind, not just what’s popular.
The price matters, of course, but don’t let it be your main deciding factor. The best cruise is the one where you’re going to feel comfortable and enjoy everything it has to offer. Plus, when you shop around, you’re bound to find something that fits in with your budget.
Know Before You Go
It’s worth noting that your cruise experience doesn’t stop when you leave the ship.
Every port has its own culture and customs, which is why the route matters just as much as the ship itself. While you should check the cruise’s inclusivity policies, or better yet, go with an LGBTQ-friendly liner, choose a destination that feels like a good fit for the kind of trip you actually want.
This is not to say the route should limit your adventure. It’s more about making sure you’ll feel completely comfortable and welcomed.
Tips for Packing Smart
The goal is not to stuff your suitcase with every possible outfit, but to set yourself up for a stress-free vacation.
Bring outfits that fit in with the activities you’ve planned, and focus on those that help you feel confident and comfortable. It’s also worth checking whether there are any dress codes for specialty restaurants and formal evenings ahead of time.
And if you’re traveling somewhere where the weather is unpredictable, add a few layers to your bag so you are not caught off guard.
Along with your wardrobe, make sure you’ve checked all of your essentials off your packing list, including medication, travel documents, chargers, and sunscreen.
Say Yes to New Connections
One of the best things about cruising is how easy it is to meet new people if you want to.
Many major cruise lines host informal meetups that will give you the chance to connect in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
If meetups are your idea of awkward, though, there are plenty of other ways to meet people, like cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, shore excursions, and themed parties. When there’s an activity involved, it’s always a bit easier to strike up conversations.
Cruises can be especially rewarding for solo travelers, so don’t shy away from booking your vacation if you don’t have anyone to travel with. This is one of those shared experiences that naturally brings people together.
Joy Is Part of the Journey
Your first cruise doesn’t need to be perfect to be unforgettable.
Give yourself permission to enjoy the journey as it unfolds and experience it in a way that feels authentic to you.
Some of the best travel memories come from the moments you never plan, so approach your vacation with this in mind, and you’re bound to want to do it all over again.
