By Travel Writer Tonya Denmark-A Purple Light Exclusive

How to Choose a Cruise?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a cruise. Where do you want to go? Should it be all-gay or a mix? What ship and itinerary do you choose?

With so many options to choose, a travel agent that is in the know can help you sort through what is the best option for you. Here are a few things we consider to help you make the best selection.

Destination and Duration

Ultimately, where you want to go is one of the first things you should consider when selecting your cruise. Do you want to see somewhere that is an “old favorite” or get out and explore a new destination. The beauty of cruising is that you can see multiple scenic destinations and only unpack once.

Additionally, think about how long you want to be at sea. If you’ve never cruised before, a 10-day cruise may seem overwhelming. Perhaps try a shorter “test” cruise like the Breakaway Cruise from New York Alternatively, if you want to get an authentic travel experience in a unique once-in-a-lifetime destination, a 7 day cruise may not be enough time.

Cruise Line

Now that you’ve selected your destination and have an idea of duration, finding the right cruise line is next. This step can be overwhelming with the wealth of ships and itineraries available. Not to mention figuring out your budget, ideal cruise ship size, activity level and whether you choose an all-gay cruise or not. This is where your travel agent will be your best friend. Not only can they help you find the perfect itinerary, they know what the different ships offer. From specialty entertainment to a quiet vacation relaxing poolside, mega ocean liner or river cruising, there is a ship to meet every interest and activity level.

When to Go

Picking when to go is also important. For starters, picking a cruise that falls during shoulder season, off-season, or even hurricane season can offer more luxury for your money. (Don’t worry, cruise lines re-route in case of a hurricane to avoid rough seas and most likely your cruise will sail unaffected by any major storms. Additionally, some of the all gay charter and other specialty cruises are only offered at select times of the year, so you may make your decision based on the cruises available and not the dates.

When to book

Generally, the earlier you book the better. For the gay charter cruises, the suites and inside cabins (the most and least expensive cabins) often go first and very quickly. The most popular cruises such as recent all-gay cruises to Tahiti, have sold out in record time! Mainstream Cruise lines often offer early bird pricing as do some of the gay charter companies such as Brand g and Olivia. As demand increases for mainstream cruises, prices tend go up. On the flip side of that, the cruise line wants to sail with a full ship. Last minute discounts can be found, but this will only work for you if you’re willing to go at a moment’s notice and not plan ahead. This strategy generally does not work for the all gay (charter) cruises, since they rarely discount their prices just to fill up a ship. (but even that does happen occasionally).

Having an agent that knows what each cruise offers is essential. What factors are important to you when you choose a cruise?