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Check-in I Our Guide

8 tips for first-time cruisers Undecided about destinations, trajectories, and what type of ship to choose? Here are 8 pieces of precious advice that’ll help you create the perfect first-time cruise trip / By Sigalit Bar

very big, but they’re usually quite comfortable, well-equipped, and have plenty of storage space. Cabin types include ones with or without a window, ones with windows that do or do not open, ones with a balcony, or with connecting doors (important for families with young children), and there are suites of various sizes. Prices vary location plays a part in the pricing too (cabins at the center of the ship are more stable than those located in its bow). 07 Food and entertainment: make sure you book your table at the cruise restaurant as well as your seat for the various entertainment activities for the duration of the cruise in order to avoid any potential disappointment. Same goes for drinks and Wi-Fi service. It’s always best to purchase them before embarking on the cruise, via the cruise line company app or website. 08 Schedule: never land in the city your cruise ship leaves from on embarkation day - and not even the day before. Arriving at least two nights before embarkation day is highly recommended since there’s always a risk your flight will get canceled or delayed. The ship won’t wait for you if you’re late. Board the ship as early as possible, so that you have time to conduct a full tour and get used to the surroundings before it sails away. accordingly of course, and as mentioned above, the cabin’s

that offers activities they will enjoy, and a cruise that stops in places the children will want to visit as well. 04 Booking your tickets: only book tickets from a travel agent you trust, and preferably one that specializes in cruises. Cruise ship brochures have so much small print in them, and the options can seem endless. It’s essential to consult a cruise specialist before booking. 05 Price comparisons: conduct thorough price comparisons between the various companies, and check what exactly is included in the price (food options, Wi-Fi service, activities etc.). Also, check your cabin’s exact location on the ship as it influences the price of your ticket - and make sure you know what the company’s cancelation policy is. 06 Cabin location: cruise cabins may not typically be

01 Cruise line company: make sure you compare the various options each company is offering in terms of services, activities, food, drink, and entertainment. Consult travel magazines and travel experts. 02 Type of ship: be aware that cruise line companies use brand-new, as well as less recent ships models. Some are bigger, some smaller, and some are more luxurious than others. Make sure you know exactly what type of ship you will be sailing on before purchasing tour tickets. 03 Trajectory: make sure you’re aware of your cruise’s precise trajectory and the length of each one of the stops it makes along the way, and choose the one that best suits your inclinations. If you’re traveling with children, make sure you pick a ship

10 ATMOSPHERE SEPTEMBER 2024