First-Time Cruisers
Let’s be honest: booking a standard hotel on dry land is simple, but deciding to set sail for the first time? That can feel like stepping into a whole new world. You are swapping a static resort for a spectacular floating city, and the options - from ships featuring record-breaking waterslides to elegant vessels offering quiet, refined escapes - are virtually endless.
At Seascanner, we know exactly how to guide you from a curious beginner to a confident cruiser. We have gathered the very best expert advice, busted the biggest maritime myths, and mapped out absolutely everything you need to know before you walk up the gangway.
Let's find your sea legs...
Why Cruising Completely Changes the Game
If you are used to traditional holidays, a cruise offers a completely different, highly upgraded way to travel. Here is why millions of people refuse to holiday any other way:
The "Unpack Once" Magic
Say goodbye to lugging heavy suitcases onto trains or unpacking in a new hotel every few days. Your premium accommodation travels right alongside you.
Awe-Inspiring Fleet Innovation
Modern ships are absolute marvels of engineering. You can hang ten on a surf simulator, watch a Broadway-quality musical, scale a rock-climbing wall, or send the kids to award-winning youth science labs - all while sailing to your next destination.
Unbeatable Value
When you factor in your room, transport between multiple countries, world-class entertainment, and all your main meals, a cruise fare offers incredible bang for your buck.
Fact vs. Fiction: Busting the Big Worries
It is completely normal to have a few apprehensions before your maiden voyage. Let’s clear the air with the facts.
"Will I get seasick?"
It is highly unlikely. Today’s modern megaships are built with massive, state-of-the-art stabilisers that act like underwater aeroplane wings to counteract the motion of the ocean. Most of the time, the sailing is so smooth you won't even realise you are moving.
Pro Tip: If you are prone to motion sickness, book a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck. It acts as the fulcrum of a seesaw and feels the least movement.
"Are cruises just non-stop, stuffy formal nights?"
Not anymore! While you can certainly pack your finest attire if you love dressing up for a special evening, most cruise lines now champion a highly relaxed, "smart casual" atmosphere.
Pro Tip: If you want to skip dressing up entirely, the ship's buffet and casual eateries remain completely relaxed every single evening. You never have to wear a tie if you don't want to!
"Will I feel trapped or bored on a 'Sea Day'?"
Absolutely not. Sea days are often the highlight of the trip. With 15+ bars and restaurants, sprawling pool decks, escape rooms, ice-skating rinks, and tranquil spas, your biggest challenge will simply be trying to fit it all in.
Pro Tip: Download the cruise line's app before you sail so you can browse the daily schedule in advance. You can bookmark activities like morning trivia, afternoon wine tastings, or evening comedy shows so you never miss a beat.
Decoding Cruise Fares
One of the biggest questions first-timers ask is, "What do I actually have to pay for once I am onboard?"
It is important to remember that inclusions can vary significantly depending on the specific ship and cruise line you choose. Some fleets wrap almost everything into one all-inclusive upfront price, while others offer a lower base fare allowing you to pick and choose your add-ons.
However, here is a quick, straightforward breakdown of what you can generally expect a standard, baseline cruise fare to look like:
Always Included in Your Fare
Accommodation: Your chosen stateroom and a dedicated room attendant ensuring it is spotless.
Main Dining: Multi-course dinners in the Main Dining Room, vast casual buffets, and grab-and-go spots (like pizza or taco stands).
Entertainment: West End/Broadway-style shows, aqua diving spectacles, live bands, and comedy clubs.
Activities: Pools, hot tubs, fitness centres, kids' clubs, and thrill rides (like zip-lines or waterslides).
Optional Upgrades & Extras
Beverage Packages: Premium coffees, alcohol, and soft drinks (unless you book an all-inclusive fare upfront).
Speciality Dining: Intimate, high-end restaurants (e.g., steakhouses or sushi bars) that carry a cover charge.
Shore Excursions: Professionally guided tours and activities when you dock in a port of call.
Wi-Fi & Spa Treatments: Internet access and premium wellness massages are typically booked separately.
The 3-Step Booking Blueprint
Ready to take the plunge? Here is how to narrow down the thousands of options to find your perfect match.
Step 1: Choose Your Holiday
Do you want to start your holiday immediately, chase the sun, or combine the best of land and sea?
- No-Fly (Sailing from the UK): The ultimate low-stress option. Drive to a port like Southampton, hand over your keys, and step onboard. There are no luggage weight limits and no airport security queues.
- Fly-Cruise: Perfect if you want guaranteed heat in the winter or wish to explore further afield. You simply fly directly to global hubs like Miami, Barcelona, or Singapore to meet your ship.
- Cruise & Stay: Can't decide between a traditional hotel break and a voyage? Do both. You can easily add a few nights in a hotel before or after your sailing to properly explore iconic cities or tick off bucket-list landmarks before you step aboard.
Step 2: Choose Your Itinerary
With the whole world accessible by sea, deciding where to go is half the fun. Start by picking a region that matches your ideal holiday pace, for example:
- The Mediterranean: The ultimate mix of culture, history, and sunshine. Wake up to a French café breakfast, grab pizza in Italy for lunch, and enjoy Spanish tapas for dinner.
- The Norwegian Fjords: Breathtaking, jaw-dropping scenery with incredibly calm, mirrored waters. Perfect for nature lovers who want a tranquil, scenic escape.
- The Caribbean: The undisputed champion of winter sun. Expect white-sand beaches, laid-back island culture, and a deeply relaxing, resort-like atmosphere.
Step 3: Select Your Sanctuary
Your cabin (or "stateroom") is your private retreat. Choose based on your budget and holiday habits:
- Inside Cabin: Windowless and brilliant for budget-conscious travellers who plan to spend all day out on the decks exploring.
- Oceanview: Features a porthole or picture window to let the natural sea light in.
- Balcony: The ultimate fan-favourite. Nothing beats having your morning coffee on your own private slice of the ocean.
- Suites: For those who want the ultimate VIP experience, offering maximum space, premium perks, and priority boarding.
Why Book With Us?
Seascanner - your online cruise specialist
Whether you’re looking for fantastic UK cruise deals, a family cruise holiday or a luxury cruise with your favourite cruise line, you’ll find a wide range of cruise holidays to book online right here on Seascanner.co.uk.
Search and browse our huge range of cruises, read about the destinations you can visit, discover the facilities on board the amazing cruise ships then check availability and book online - it’s easy!
All bookings are fully ABTA and ATOL protected for your peace of mind and backed by over 40 years of cruise experience, so you can book your dream cruise in complete confidence.