If a friend mentions that there are going off on their cruise holidays you can be forgiven for thinking of quiet a dreary laid back affair, in reality this couldn't be further from the truth.
Sailing the oceans on a holiday actually offers a wide variety of options depending on your tastes.
The misconception with cruising is that it is a deck chair by day and by night dinner jacket with ballroom dancing affair.
If you want to do that of course there are plenty of ships perfect for your needs.
There are several choices to be made when picking your first, or any cruise for that matter.
Making the right choices in the booking stage could make all the difference on your cruising holiday.
The first major decision is where do you want to go on your cruise? The two main influences on your choice will be the area the cruise is in, and where it plans to stop.
The second choice you need to make to ensure you have the holiday you desire is the ship.
Cruise ships vary immensely not just in size, but in the general etiquette and expectations of guests.
Some cruise ships insist on formal dress in the evenings on certain days and some don't.
My in-laws went on a cruise holiday last year and enjoyed the formal dinner and dance nights as it wasn't the norm for them.
They were lucky as they picked the right ship for them and had an amazing time, so much so they are going again this year! Ships have different levels of facilities too so make sure you check what is available.
The third choice you might like to ponder is your choice of cabin.
If you plan on just sleeping in your cabin then it's probably worth saving your money and just having an inner cabin.
If however you fancy sunbathing in the afternoon on your own balcony, or relaxing in the evening watching the sun set, a more expensive out facing cabin with balcony would be the ideal choice.
Even more expensive options on some ships are rooms with your own living room and a balcony.
This would definitely be my choice if I could afford it! Some cruise ships are child friendly and others are for adults only.
This could influence your choice greatly if you plan on cruising at peak holiday times.
It is best to decide on when you want to go on your cruise holiday as advanced as possible of the time.
This will give you better choice of your requirements and secure your place.
Some people might like the more exciting approach of leaving it quite late to get the best deal on what is still available.
Booking popular onshore activities in advance that you wish to take part in is advisable so that you are not disappointed.
If you take the time to make the right choices booking your cruise holidays you are sure to have the time of your life, igniting a passion for holidaying on the open seas.