I cruised in the Navy across the Atlantic and Pacific but have never been on a cruise ship.
Looking for tips on what to expect and what to avoid.
Looking at Celebrity Cruise line at the moment. Any experience with this line good or bad?
As to cruise lines, I think Royal Caribbean is the best! (Celebrity is one of Royal's nicer lines)
I found Aruba to be friendly and very nice people. Sad part is during Covid they had to borrow money from the Dutch to stay a float and now must pay back the money they owe, cause tourism is what their economy is based on.
With the cruising there are several videos on Utube which can give you tips on the how to and details about each individual ship.
Personally we like the dining at the sit down restaurants. We get to know our waiters/staff and they go above and beyond to provide a great experience. (like, as soon as we walk in the staff is getting our drinks for us). I found their food way better than Norwegian or MSC lines. Most of the cruise lines have reduced the amount of food served, but if you ask for a particular item they will get it for you.
I would recommend that you book as many excursions that you have any interest in. We spend the extra money going thru the ship because have had friends get screwed over by private operators and IF your private operator is late getting back the ship, you'll have to make other arrangements for getting home. Personally when I pick my room, I look at what's above that room and whats beside it. Stay away from the mechanical rooms or elevators. And
don't forget travel insurance! Had three helicopter med lifts last trip and they're not cheap, plus your medical insurance basically ends at the border.
Last three trips we booked thru Direct Line Cruises, also found some bargains on Travel Zoo.
Good luck, you'll have a great time!
