9 tips for a successful cruise

1. Speak with a travel advisor

A travel expert will help you find the cruise that best matches your expectations. At CAA-Quebec, a CLIA-certified (Cruise Lines International Association) agency, our passionate travel advisors will support you every step of the way. 

With their help, you’ll make the most of your trip—from the cruise ship to the shore excursions—with personalized service. 

2. Choose the right destination

Your cruise itinerary is a key part of the decision. Some regions are very popular, like the Caribbean Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, or Northern Europe. Others offer more original routes, like Asia, South America, or Oceania. Highlights include Japan, the Panama Canal, and the Norwegian fjords. 

To make the right choice, think first about the type of experience you want. Do you prefer to: 

• Visit major cities and well-known attractions? 

• Discover remote villages only accessible by sea? 

• Or simply admire coastal landscapes from the ship? 

An itinerary with an interesting departure or arrival city can also let you extend your stay on land. 

Be sure to look into the ports of call. Which ones appeal to you? Do they offer activities or tours that interest you? Doing a bit of research ahead of time will help you better plan your days ashore. 

Check out our selection of the best cruises for inspiration. 

3. Decide how many ports you want to visit

The number of stops and sea days varies from one itinerary to another, which affects the pace of your cruise. Do you want to visit many ports, or just a few? It all depends on your preferences—whether you want to explore as much as possible or enjoy more time on board. Think about what works best for you. 

4. Pick the right cruise line and ship

Some cruise lines cater to retired travellers, others to families. For a family vacation, go for ships with kids’ clubs. For a romantic escape, choose a more intimate vessel.

The size and style of the ship also shape the experience. Larger ships offer a wide range of onboard entertainment (shows, games, activities). Smaller ones focus more on cultural and authentic shore stops. 

Depending on the destination, some ships offer both. It’s up to you to choose the cruise experience that suits you best: luxury cruise, lively atmosphere, or something quieter. 

Here are a few things to consider: 

Large ships: 

• More onboard activities and entertainment 

• More restaurants 

• Lively atmosphere with lots of passengers 

• Access to some ports by tender 

Small ships: 

• More intimate setting with fewer crowds 

• Direct docking at most ports 

• More niche itineraries with access to less-visited stops 

• Often more upscale, with more personalized service 

Tip: To assess the onboard experience, check the passenger-to-crew ratio (a sign of service level) and the gross tonnage per passenger (an indicator of available space). 

See our guide to compare cruise lines and make the right choice. 

5. Find the perfect stateroom

From interior staterooms to luxury suites, there are several types of staterooms available. Balcony staterooms are perfect for enjoying the scenery. You can relax, read in the sun, or have breakfast or drinks in peace. Here’s an overview of the main categories: 

Interior stateroom

Pros: 

• Affordable price 

• Total darkness when lights are off 

Cons: 

• Small space 

• No outside view 

Best for: 

• Small budgets 

• Travellers who don’t spend much time in their stateroom 

Oceanview stateroom

Pros: 

• View of the ocean (window or porthole) 

• Natural light 

• More spacious feel 

Cons: 

• Mid-range price 

• View may be partially obstructed or overlook a deck (less privacy) 

Best for: 

• Travellers who want to see the ocean 

• People prone to claustrophobia 

Balcony stateroom (or veranda)

Pros: 

• Private outdoor space 

• Panoramic views of the scenery 

• Fresh air 

Cons: 

• Higher price than standard staterooms 

• View may be obstructed 

Best for: 

• Travellers seeking a quiet, private outdoor space (couples or families) 

• People who spend more time in their stateroom 

• Scenic cruise routes

Luxury or family suite

Pros: 

• Large living space 

• Exclusive services 

• Access to private ship areas 

Cons: 

• Higher cost than standard staterooms 

• Limited availability 

Best for: 

• Families or groups 

• Travellers seeking a premium experience or celebrating a special occasion 

6. Check entry requirements for visited countries

Each country has its own entry rules. Make sure you have all required travel documents to avoid problems. 

Without them, you might not be allowed to board. A passport valid for six months after your return is often required, and sometimes a visa as well. Use the Sherpa tool to check entry requirements for your destination.

7. Book your activities in advance

Port stops are often short—sometimes just from morning to evening. So it’s best to book your shore excursions early to make the most of your time. Some onboard activities, like spa treatments or specialty classes, can also be booked before departure—or once you’re on board. 

Cruise excursions vary: cultural visits, culinary tours, hiking, or even amusement parks. They’re ranked by physical effort and rated by other travellers. Don’t wait to book—the most popular ones fill up fast. 

Good to know: You can’t book excursions the same morning! Cruise lines must confirm group numbers with local suppliers at least 24 hours in advance. 

Some third-party companies also offer tours. Just make sure they respect the ship’s schedule, so you don’t miss re-embarkation. 

8. Consider an all-inclusive option

Some cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages with flights, transfers, and excursions. The price may seem higher, but it could save you money depending on your needs. 

You can also add options to your booking for a more complete experience. If not, plan for tips, drinks, and excursions in your budget. Compare options to make the best choice. 

9. Plan extra time before and after the cruise

Arrive a few days early to recover from jet lag and visit your departure city. It also protects you from surprises—like a delayed flight: the ship won’t wait. 

Likewise, extending your trip after the cruise lets you enjoy the destination more. For example, if your cruise starts in Rome and ends in Athens, you’ll experience two great European cities. 

Keep in mind

Choose your cruise based on your interests and the kind of experience you’re looking for. Whether you dream of a Caribbean cruise or a voyage elsewhere, take time to plan. Learn about the itinerary, ports of call, and onboard options to get the most out of your trip. 

And above all, don’t hesitate to speak with a travel advisor to book a worry-free, personalized cruise. 

Even if everything’s well planned, the unexpected can still happen. A good travel insurance plan will protect you—before your trip and at sea. 

Follow these tips for a smooth, successful cruise vacation.