Cruise Curious? Navigate the Waters with AAA

After nearly three years of challenges and uncertainty, cruise lines are gearing up for a strong year with travel demand rising and Americans eager to set sail. A new AAA survey finds 52% of U.S. adults are just as likely or more likely to consider taking a cruise vacation than they were before to the pandemic. That number is up from 45% one year ago.

"Cruising is back in a big way. We expect a lot more people to book cruises in 2023 as several new ships have entered the market," says Paula Twidale, AAA Senior Vice President of Travel. "We already saw this in November which proved to be a record-breaking month for cruise bookings. For many cruise companies, Black Friday was the single largest booking day in history."

Contemporary, family-friendly, and luxury cruises top the list of most popular ships among people who are likely to go on a cruise this year, according to AAA's survey. But smaller, more intimate ships are gaining popularity, like river cruises which offer personalized itineraries and port-centric experiences.

Some of the top reasons holding some people back from cruising are cost and health and safety concerns. Twidale says travel agents can help clarify cruising misconceptions and identify the ship that fits your needs.

"There is something for everyone when selecting a cruise vacation. AAA travel agents are skilled at finding the cruise that meets your budget and expectations," adds Twidale. "Cruise lines have undertaken extensive measures to promote health and safety onboard, so you can expect attention to detail and cleanliness. In the case of unexpected illness, they have protocols in place to isolate passengers as they recuperate."

5 Mistakes People Make When Booking Cruises

Forgoing a travel agent and travel insurance – travel agents are experts who can help you select the cruise line, ship, and itinerary that best fits your lifestyle, budget, and interests. They have access to the same pricing as booking through a cruise line directly but can provide additional savings, onboard credit, complimentary gratuities, and other amenities you won't get from booking on your own. Travel insurance gives you peace of mind if plans change. Without it, you could be on the hook for 100% of your trip if you must cancel unexpectedly. Insuring your trip allows you to breathe a little easier, knowing your travel investment is protected.

Delaying booking in hopes of getting a deal – think you'll get a better deal at the last minute? Think again! Cruises can be booked as far as two years in advance. Waiting too long can result in the cruise or stateroom category you want being sold out. With lower stateroom inventory as the sailing date approaches, many cruise lines actually increase prices closer to the sailing date. Book early to get the specific cruise and stateroom you want.

Waiting to book shore excursions or onboard dining and shows – putting off booking a shore excursion is risky because the most popular tours may be sold out by the time you're on board. The same goes for certain restaurants or shows. Often, cruise lines will offer lower prices for shore excursions booked in advance. That's another way travel agents can help. They can guide you through the pre-cruise process and assist with those types of reservations.

Flying in on the day of sailing – weather delays or mechanical issues can turn your dream vacation into a nightmare if you are flying in on the day you are sailing. The stress of possibly missing your cruise is not the way to start a relaxing trip. Fly in a day early and enjoy an evening at your port of embarkation before setting sail.

Picking a cruise based solely on price – there are cruise lines for all types of budgets. A wise person once said a cheap vacation could be an expensive mistake. To save money, you might book a cruise that doesn't offer the onboard experience you hoped for. Travel agents can be invaluable in this area because they can match your interests with your budget while laying out exactly what you can expect at different price points.

5 Biggest Myths About Cruising

I will be bored. A cruise can be as active or as relaxing as you want it to be. From basketball and pickleball to rock climbing walls and surfing simulators, large ships have amenities galore. At night, end your day with Broadway-style shows, solo acts, movies, casinos, or nightclubs. Expedition cruises are all about the destination and focus on the great outdoors. For travelers looking to take in the sights and sounds of a breathtaking city, European river cruises, for example, offer port-centric activities that immerse passengers in the local culture.

I will get seasick. Cruise ships have stabilizers to minimize the ship's motion as much as possible. If you're taking a river cruise, you're less likely to get motion sick. But travelers who are extra sensitive can take medications like Dramamine, use acupressure bracelets, or wear seasickness patches behind the ear.

I will have to wear formal clothes. The days of wearing a tuxedo or cocktail dress in the evening are over unless you want to go all out! Most cruise lines have adopted a resort casual dress code. Depending on your mood, you can opt for a more relaxed look or put on something special for a romantic night out.

The only activities on a cruise are eating and drinking. It's no secret that cruises are known for buffets, room service, all-day pizza bars, and burgers by the pool. But there are plenty of other things to do, like hanging out at the pool, going on offshore excursions, watching live entertainment, taking a fitness class, or treating yourself to a spa service.

Cruise ships are only for older crowds. Today's cruises are popular with people of all ages and offer a fantastic vacation for families, groups of friends, and honeymooners. Kids have their own dedicated space and activities to keep them entertained, while young adults can take advantage of endless sports and activities onboard. Adults can enjoy a wine tasting or spa treatment, and all ships offer quiet corners for reading, relaxing, and even napping.

Top Cruise Destinations for 2023

FAQs

How far out can you book a cruise vacation ahead of its sailing date?
Most cruises can be booked anywhere from 24 months to a week before sailing. Remember that if you book a cruise far enough in advance, you will only be required to pay the initial deposit at the time of reservation. After that, the final payment will not be due until about 90 days before sailing.

How does the pricing work on cruises?
For most cruises, pricing includes your cabin, most meals, non-alcoholic beverages, and most entertainment. Travelers may opt to pay for additional things like drink packages (alcohol), crew gratuities, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, dining in specialty restaurants, fitness classes, and spa treatments. Pricing for trips aboard premium and luxury cruise lines tend to be more inclusive and may include many of these add-ons.

What is the ideal cruise length and the best type of cruise for a first-timer?
If you have never cruised before, AAA recommends trying a three-night weekend cruise to start. This is just the right time to see if cruising is right for you and gives you the best of both worlds. A little time at sea and a little to explore a port of call or two. Everyone’s cruise preferences vary, with some people enjoying being at sea for long periods to relax and try out onboard activities, while others prefer more ports of call to experience land excursions. Most three-night cruises sail from Florida to the Bahamas or Southern California to Mexico and Catalina.

What are the differences between cabin categories?
Cruise lines offer a variety of cabins, also known as staterooms, for every style and budget. They range from inside staterooms (with no windows) to grand two-story suites. The most popular staterooms have a private balcony, which allows guests to sit outside to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Inside staterooms offer the lowest price but are still spacious with all the same amenities as staterooms with windows or balconies.

What is a sea day?
A sea day is when there are no scheduled stops as the ship moves from one port to the next. For some travelers, these are the most popular days on a cruise. You have a full day to relax and enjoy all the ship has to offer at your own pace. Also, cruise staff will typically offer special programs and events like lectures, dance classes, pool volleyball, art auctions, movies, or cooking classes.

What should a first-timer know about shore excursions?
A shore excursion is a full or half-day trip organized by the cruise line in each port and is available for an additional cost. Some examples include guided tours to see the main sights of a port, sailing at sunset on a catamaran, a zip line adventure in the jungle, or an immersive cooking class. Shore excursions offer something for everyone, which could be with a large group of passengers or arranged just for your party with a private guide.

When is the best time to fly out when traveling to your port of origin?
AAA recommends flying into your port of embarkation the day before your cruise to avoid airline delays, missed connections, or lost luggage. Arriving a day early also relieves some of the stress of traveling and lets your vacation start early. You’ll have extra time to take in the sights and tastes of the homeport you are sailing from.

When is the best time to book a cruise?
The best time to book is generally during what’s known as Wave Season (January – March) since this is when cruise lines offer some of their best promotions. It is a myth that you can find better pricing if you wait to book at the last minute. As staterooms fill up, cruise lines raise pricing because they have less inventory to sell. Another tip, if you have a specific itinerary, sailing date, or stateroom category you want, you should book it as soon as you can, as popular sailings and staterooms fill up early.

Are some sailings better at certain times of the year than others (due to weather, for example)?
Caribbean cruises in the fall are generally lower priced due to hurricane season, which can impact your itinerary if the ship has to be diverted due to a storm. Early and late-season Alaskan cruises (April and September) also have lower pricing, but the weather could be cold and rainy.

Should travelers download the cruise line app?
Yes! You can use this to check in and store your electronic boarding pass but also access other features like:

• Information on daily programs and onboard venues
• Deck maps
• Making reservations for dining and shore excursions
• Opening the door to your stateroom
• Sending texts between you and your traveling party
• Once on board, use the app for free by connecting to your ship’s Guest Wi-Fi network

Are there any restrictions because of COVID-19 in the ports we will visit?
Generally, all requirements (such as wearing masks and proof of vaccines) have been removed in most ports in the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and Europe. Guests can enjoy exploring ports on their own or participating in a shore excursion offered by the ship. Some ports in Asia and the South Pacific still have some restrictions, so ask your travel agent regarding your specific itinerary.

Are there still COVID-19 protocols onboard for such experiences as entertainment, nightlife, buffets/dining, etc.?
Cruises have returned to full capacity and have eliminated social distancing and masking requirements onboard. The cruise experience has returned to normal with the variety of live entertainment, nightlife, children’s programs, fitness classes, and spa services. Even the buffets are back, with some cruise lines allowing you to self-serve again.

What happens if someone tests positive for COVID while onboard? What if I test positive?
Generally, if anyone reports or exhibits COVID-19 symptoms, they are evaluated by the onboard medical staff and tested. These individuals are treated either in their stateroom or in a designated area of the medical center. Travelers who test positive and do not require admission to the ship’s medical center will be required to isolate in their stateroom or potentially move to a different stateroom near the medical facility. Any family members, traveling companions, or others who have been in close contact with that person will also be tested and potentially quarantined in a stateroom if needed. Some cruise lines offer guests who test positive for COVID-19 complimentary amenities like Wi-Fi and room service, along with regular visits or teleconsultations with medical staff to monitor their wellness.