Common Cruising Questions

Advice and Tips from Maestro Travel Agents

HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT CRUISE FOR ME?

There is a lot to consider when choosing a cruise.  Each cruise line caters to a specific clientele and, even from ship to ship within the same cruise line, there are differences. Ask yourself and your family what is most important, the destination, the ship, or both?

WHERE CAN I TAKE A CRUISE?

The most popular destinations to cruise are the Caribbean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, the Mexican Riviera and the coast of Alaska.  However, you may also cruise to destinations such as Hawaii and the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Asia and the Panama Canal, as well as Africa and even Antarctica!  Have you ever thought about cruising the waterways of Europe?  The possibilities are virtually endless!

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT ROOMS LIKE ON A CRUISE SHIP?

Choosing a stateroom on a cruise ship is like finding the right accommodations in a resort hotel.  There are different types of accommodations on a cruise ship but here is a primer:

• Inside Staterooms — have no outside walls, and therefore, have no windows.
• Atrium Staterooms — a new variation of the standard inside stateroom, the atrium stateroom has a window that overlooks a public area of the ship.  This would be similar to a courtyard view at a hotel.
• Outside Staterooms — are the same as inside staterooms, except that they have a window with an ocean view.
• Balcony Staterooms — normally larger than outside staterooms, your window is replaced by sliding glass or French doors that open to a verandah or balcony.
• Suites — suites on board a cruise ship may be the ultimate in luxury travel.  In addition to a private balcony, most suites normally have butler services, larger bathrooms, walk-in closets and spacious living rooms.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TAKE A CRUISE?

Caribbean Sea - Year Round
Bermuda - May thru September
Europe & The Mediterranean - May thru October
Alaska - May thru October
Mexican Riviera - Year Round
Panama Canal - October thru May
Hawaii - Year Round
South Pacific, Australia, & The Far East - November thru April
South America - December thru April

HOW MUCH IS THIS GOING TO COST?

In days past, cruising was reserved for the wealthy and famous.  Today, things have changed considerably.  As cruise lines expand and continue to build new ships, competition has brought fares into a very reasonable range.  Today's cruise lines offer great value with luxurious accommodations, gourmet food and plenty of entertainment all included in your cruise fare.  With itineraries as short as two or three days up to three months or longer world cruises, there are cruises today that fit in everyone's budget!

Ready to explore your options?