Thinking About Your First Cruise? How to Choose One That Actually Fits You

My first cruise was refreshingly simple. A coworker who happened to be a travel advisor suggested Alaska, and off we went.

I didn’t agonize over cruise lines. I didn’t compare cabin categories for weeks. I didn’t stress about shore excursions. She guided us — and it was perfect.

Now that I’m on the other side of that equation, I finally understand what I didn’t see then: choosing a cruise can be overwhelming if you don’t know what questions to ask.

My perspective on cruising comes from both sides of the experience — first as a traveler who relied on a trusted advisor for my own trips, and now as a travel advisor helping clients navigate these same decisions with clarity rather than overwhelm.

Most people start with the same handful of cruise lines and assume cruising is one kind of experience — big ships, big crowds, endless buffet lines. But the cruise world is far bigger and more diverse than most people realize.

And that diversity means something important: there’s likely a cruise experience that fits you extremely well — if you know how to find it.

If you’re thinking, “I want to try a cruise, but I have no idea where to start,” you’re in the right place. This first-time cruise guide breaks down the decisions that actually matter — without the overwhelm.

I’m going to break this down the way I would for a friend over coffee — not to sell you a specific cruise line, but to help you choose the cruise that actually fits your travel style.

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Start Here

• Ocean and river cruises are very different experiences — neither is better, just different

• Your cruise choice comes down to five decisions, not dozens of cruise lines

• “All-inclusive” means different things depending on the cruise line

• Balcony cabins matter more on ocean cruises than river cruises

• A shorter cruise lowers risk, but a longer cruise lets you settle in

• A travel advisor helps you compare apples to apples, not just prices

If you want help narrowing this down, I offer a complimentary discovery call to talk through what actually fits you.

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The 5 Decisions That Choose Your First Cruise For You

If cruise research feels overwhelming, it’s usually because you’re trying to pick a cruise line first. Try this instead.

Most cruise decisions come down to five things:

1. Ocean cruise or river cruise

2. Destination

3. Length of the sailing

4. Cabin type

5. What’s actually included in the price

Once these are clear, cruise line options become obvious instead of exhausting.

Decision 1: Ocean vs. River Cruising

Feature	Ocean Cruise	River Cruise
Ship size	2,000–6,000+ passengers on most ships (though smaller ships exist)	~100–200 passengers
Overall feel	More variety, more onboard activity	More intimate and immersive
Ports	Often dock outside city centers	Usually dock in the heart of towns
Excursions	Typically extra cost	Often included, with multiple pace options
Motion	Can feel movement, especially at sea	Very minimal motion
Onboard amenities	Shows, pools, specialty dining, and entertainment	Fewer amenities, focus on destinations
Pricing style	Lower upfront cost, more add-ons	Higher upfront cost, fewer surprises
Best for	First-time cruisers, variety seekers, and budget flexibility	Travelers who prefer simplicity and cultural depth

Most first-time cruisers choose ocean cruises — and for good reason, especially for accessibility and pricing. But river cruises offer a completely different experience that’s worth understanding.

Size and atmosphere

River cruises typically carry around 150 passengers. Ocean ships range anywhere from 2,000 to 6,000+.

If large crowds make you anxious, river cruising offers a much more intimate feel. That said, not all ocean ships are mega-ships — smaller ocean vessels exist if you want ocean cruising without the scale.

Motion and comfort

River cruising is generally calmer, making it a safer option for those concerned about motion sickness. Ocean cruising can involve movement, though choosing a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck helps significantly.

How close you are to destinations

River cruises often dock directly in city centers. On my Danube cruise, I stepped off the ship and was in town within minutes.

Ocean cruises frequently dock outside city centers and require transportation to reach major sights. That doesn’t make them worse — just different.

Cost and inclusions

Ocean cruises usually have a lower upfront cost but charge extra for many add-ons.

River cruises cost more initially, but often include:

• shore excursions

• Wi-Fi

• gratuities

• beer and wine with meals

The real comparison isn’t price — it’s what’s included.

Decision 2: Best Destinations for First Cruise

If I had to recommend one destination for a first cruise, I’d say the Caribbean without hesitation. Calm seas, predictable weather, and easy logistics make it an ideal introduction.

Ironically, my first cruise was to Alaska, and it was stunning. I could feel the ship move, but Bonine handled it easily. I don’t regret it at all. But for someone anxious about motion, the Caribbean is gentler.

Other good options:

• Mediterranean: calm seas + multiple countries

• Alaska: breathtaking scenery, slightly rockier

• River cruising: The Danube and Rhine are excellent first choices

Decision 3: How Long Should Your First Cruise Be?

For first-timers, I usually recommend starting with 5–7 days.

Shorter cruises lower the risk if you’re unsure. But here’s the trade-off: many people only relax into cruising right as a short cruise ends.

I once took friends on a short cruise because they were worried about motion sickness. They loved it — and wished we’d booked longer.

My recommendation:

• Nervous or testing the waters → 3–5 days

• Want the full experience → 7 days

Decision 4: The Cabin Question — Balcony or Not?

Ocean cruises

My biggest regret on my Alaska cruise was not booking a balcony. We missed wildlife sightings and quiet morning views.

Balconies cost more, but on ocean cruises, they transform sea days. Reading, having coffee, and watching the ocean privately matter to many travelers.

Inside or ocean-view cabins are fine if budget matters most, but if you value downtime and views, a balcony is worth considering.

River cruises

River cruises are different. You dock almost every day, and you’re rarely in your cabin. On my Danube cruise, we barely used our balcony.

Next time, I’d book a window and save the money.

Decision 5: What Cruises Really Cost

This is where many first-time cruisers get tripped up.

Mass-market cruise lines typically include:

• your cabin

• main dining and buffet

• most entertainment

You’ll usually pay extra for:

• drinks

• specialty dining

• excursions

• Wi-Fi

• gratuities

Premium and luxury cruises include more upfront:

• specialty dining

• some excursions

• drinks

• tips

River cruises often include excursions but may charge for premium options.

The key: compare total cost, not advertised fare.

Shore Excursions: Cruise Line or Independent?

Cruise line excursions come with one major benefit: the ship waits for you.

Independent tours can be excellent, but they carry risk. I once booked an independent tour where licensing issues became obvious mid-tour. Since then, I vet operators carefully.

My general advice:

• First-time ocean cruisers: book at least one cruise-line excursion

• River cruises: take advantage of included excursions

• Independent tours: research licensing, reviews, and return guarantees

Common First-Time Cruise Worries

• Will I feel lonely if I cruise solo? No. You can be as social or independent as you want. Many cruises host solo meet-ups.

• Do I need a passport? Some cruises don’t require one, but I strongly recommend having it.

• Will I feel trapped on the ship? Ships are large with outdoor spaces, and ports are frequent. A balcony helps if you’re anxious.

• Is the water safe to drink? Yes — ship water is safe.

• What about formal nights? Participation is optional. Many lines are increasingly relaxed.

There’s No Perfect Cruise — Only the Right One for You

If you’ve noticed a pattern, it’s this: it depends.

It depends on what you value, how you travel, and what makes you comfortable.

There’s no universally “best” cruise — only the one that fits you.

That’s exactly what my coworker did for me when I booked my first cruise. And it’s what I do now for clients who want clarity instead of overwhelm.

Ready to Find Your First Cruise?

If you want help comparing options, understanding real costs, or figuring out what actually fits your travel style, I offer a complimentary discovery call.

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just a conversation to help you choose confidently.

Schedule your discovery call.

FAQ

• Do I need a passport for a cruise?

It depends on the itinerary. Some closed-loop cruises allow U.S. citizens to sail with an ID and birth certificate, but a passport is strongly recommended for flexibility and emergencies.

• How much should I budget beyond the cruise fare?

For most ocean cruises, budget an extra 30–50% for drinks, excursions, tips, and Wi-Fi. River cruises and luxury lines typically include more upfront, so extra costs are lower.

• Are cruises good for solo travelers?

Yes. Cruises offer built-in social opportunities without pressure. You can be as

independent or as social as you want, and many lines support solo travelers well.

• What if I get seasick?

Choose a midship cabin on a lower deck and bring medication like Bonine. Modern

ships are stable, and river cruises have very little motion.

• How formal is “formal night”?

Most cruise lines are now more relaxed. Dressing up is optional, and casual dining options are always available if you prefer not to participate.

• Will I feel trapped on a cruise ship?

Most travelers don’t. Ships offer open decks, outdoor spaces, and frequent port stops. A balcony cabin can help if this is a concern.

• What’s the difference between cabin types?

Inside cabins are most affordable, ocean view cabins have windows, and balcony cabins offer private outdoor space—especially valuable on sea days.

• When is the best time to book a cruise?

Wave Season (January–March) often has the best promotions, but good options exist year-round with the right guidance.

Who This Approach to Cruising Works Best For

This way of choosing a cruise works especially well for travelers who want guidance without feeling overwhelmed — first-time cruisers, introverts, solo travelers, or anyone who wants clarity instead of endless options. If you value understanding why a cruise fits you (rather than being handed a list of ships and prices), this approach helps you feel confident before you ever step onboard.

About the Author: Ericka Hamilton, Travel Advisor & Educator

Ericka Hamilton is the owner of Unveiled Explorations & Travel, where she helps cruisers, solo travelers, and groups plan meaningful, effortless travel. With a background in education and mental health, she brings a calm, clear, and supportive approach to trip planning—specializing in cruises, escorted tours, and intentional travel for people who want structure without overwhelm.

Learn more at unveiledexplorationstravel.com.