10 Tips for Choosing a Europe Cruise

With most, if not all, Covid restrictions having been lifted for travel to Europe, this summer is shaping up to be a prime vacation destination. In 2023, several new ships will debut in Europe, such as Norwegian Viva launching on June 15th, calling the Mediterranean home for the summer, and Oceania Vista, setting sail on April 14th, cruising the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Whether you are just considering a cruise to Europe or have already started the research, there are many things to consider. To help with the planning process, the following are 10 Tips for Choosing a Europe Cruise:

1. Consider your dates: Are you celebrating a special occasion that you want to be sure to celebrate on a ship or looking to vacation with flexible dates? Keep in mind that in the summer, the temps in the region are warmer, and destinations tend to be more crowded. If your dates are flexible, consider more shoulder seasons like Spring and Fall for the best values. If you can only get away in the summer, plan early!


2. Research cruise lines: Are you traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group? Each cruise line offers something different, with some catering more towards families while others are adults-only or higher-end luxury lines with few, if any, kids onboard. What is the best line for you? A travel agent is the best resource to help you navigate the complex landscape of choosing the right cruise.  Learn more about How to Choose the Best Cruise Line.


3. Determine your preferred itinerary: During planning, list the countries or cities you want to visit. Each cruise line offers various itineraries throughout Europe, ranging from the Northern routes that most often include stops in Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, and Ireland to the Mediterranean with popular ports in Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, and Greece. Some lines spend more time in port, whereas others will include more ports of call. Be sure to look at the itineraries to determine which suits your expectations, timeframe, and overall plans the best.  


4. Check out what the ship offers: This is especially important if you will have younger travelers to ensure a kids' program is offered onboard. Also, for those looking to relax and spend time in the spa, some ships offer a far more extensive selection of treatments than others. Fitness fanatic? Check to make sure the ship you choose has a gym and preview their selection of classes offered onboard. If you are looking for action-packed options, a ship with surf and sky-diving simulators, a rock climbing wall, zip-lining, and more would be a better selection than a ship offering a more laid-back atmosphere and onboard activities. 


5. Length of cruise: If you are spending the time and money to fly to Europe, make the most of your vacation. There are shorter cruises offered for 3-5 days all the way up to several weeks, depending on how much time you want to spend. Some travelers split their time between a cruise and a land tour, but keep in mind that land-based can get expensive quickly as meals and activities are additional costs, whereas, on cruise ships, you will typically find these options are included. Choosing a longer cruise may be more budget-friendly, allowing you to experience more ports of call and only unpack once.


6. Determine the embarkation and disembarkation ports: Airfare and cruise line itinerary may dictate where you start and end your cruise. Be sure to choose a cruise that begins and ends in cities where you can extend your stay pre- and post-cruise a few days to soak in more of the local culture. If you are doing airfare on your own (i.e., not booked through the cruise line), check fares before booking the cruise. Tip: Always plan to fly in at least a day or two before your cruise to recover from jet lag, and in case the airlines have a cancellation or schedule change, you don’t risk missing your cruise!


7. Shore excursions: Every cruise line offers shore excursions for each port of call. Book early, especially in the summer, as the most popular excursions, sell out quickly. Also, be sure to check with third-party companies that offer a return-to-ship guarantee, as they can save you some money and offer more options in some ports of call. Read More: 
   9 Things to Know Before Booking a Shore Excursion
   5 Things to Consider Before Arranging Your Own Shore Excursion


8. Compare cruise rates and inclusions: As with any vacation, prices for a European cruise can vary by cruise line, time of year, itinerary, and cabin type. When comparing prices, make like-for-like comparisons and what each cruise line includes in the prices. Some lines will include a drinks package, specialty dining, wifi, shore excursions, and more, while other lines will be true cruise-only pricing which may leave you with a large unexpected bill at the end of your vacation. Be sure to check when booking for any special offers a cruise line may offer, such as reduced airfare or other amenities. In some cases, a more inclusive cruise line can be less expensive in the long run when looking at total “all-in” costs. 


9. Read reviews: Cruiseline.com is a great resource for cruise reviews from fellow cruisers. As the world’s largest source of “verified” cruise reviews, know that what you read is actually posted by passengers who sailed. 


10. Book early: The key to a great deal is booking early, especially for Europe this summer. Ships are expected to sell out, with many already with limited availability. Now is the time to put in for your vacation and book your cruise! 
     

Final Thoughts

Whether you are already booked or watching several cruises, set a price alert to be notified if the price drops on your cruise. The best part, you can set as many price alerts for as many sailings as you want for FREE!

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