Is this Cruise a good fit?

Is your cruise a family vacation?

Am I a good fit for this cruise?  Too few of our customers ask that question.  But it's one of the most important questions that should be asked when buying a cruise.  Many times I'll be asked to quote a trip that I know is not a good fit for the client.   How do I know?  I'll ask the type of questions listed below.    Here's some tips to make sure you fit in where you belong:

Demographics:

Most people have an understanding of what this means:  age, education level, nationality, income bracket, etc.  While we have to be careful of stereotyping there are certain trends.  For example, many Americans no longer smoke so picking  a cruise which allows a lot of smoking or attracts smokers is probably not a good fit.    If you have a graduate degree, it's more likely that a cruise that has lectures on board will be a good fit.

What do I like to do in general?

Some people like to go on " a park your butt on the beach" type vacation.  Others enjoy hiking, fishing or other activities.  Some people value great food quality, others value food choices and top shelf liquor.  Some cruisers love the on board entertainment while others are much more interested in what each port has to offer.  Big ships are able to offer an incredible degree of on board activities and some people love this.  Others would much rather have a small ship experience, forgoing the ability to see a Broadway show for short lines and a marble bathroom.

Cost

For some an all inclusive experience makes them happy.  For others, paying for someone else to have 10 drinks a day is not appealing.  Many people will value a high degree of service from the crew, while others would rather put their money into excursions.  A more expensive cruise might offer an all you can eat sushi bar at every meal.  But if your idea of a great meal  is hamburger by the pool, why pay for this?  It's simply not a good fit for what you want.

Even if you can afford a high end cruise, it doesn't mean it's a good fit.  Luxury cruises may attract certain clientele that is not a good fit for you. For example, people may get more dressed up than you're comfortable with. Or perhaps the excursions are more geared for an older less active crowd than you desire.  Likewise, a mass market cruise maybe just what you're looking for in terms of activities, but may not be a good fit for someone used to sailing on a luxury cruise.

Why am I going in the first place?

Although your general preferences are important, perhaps the most important question to ask is why are you going on this vacation. What's your purpose?

• Are you sightseeing?
• Do you just need a change of venue from a stressful week of work?
• Do you need time to reflect about an important decision?
• Are you spending time with family or friends?
• Are you an avid diver and want to visit specific reefs?

By asking these questions, you'll help determine if a specific cruise is a good fit.

Try on a cruise just like you try on some clothing

Try it on

Each cruise line and each individual cruise can be a good or bad fit for an particular situation.  So you need to "try it on".  How do you do that?  Ask yourself some of the questions above.  Get to know the cruise you're thinking of and see if it's a good fit.  This is what any good travel agent will help you with.  The travel agent will have experience with the specific cruise you're thinking of, and will have likely sent other passengers on that same (or similar) cruise.  And believe me, we get feedback.

So go ahead - ask if the cruise you're thinking about is a good fit for you.  Try it on for size before you go.  Chances are good that if the cruise is a good fit, you'll have a great time.