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Reasons to go on a cruise 

If you're looking for a zero-stress vacation that you can tailor to your personal preferences, a cruise trip is sure to make a splash. Whether you spend your days making the most of the ship's amenities or enjoying exciting on-shore excursions and whether your nights are spent in a luxury suite overlooking the ocean or a no-frills interior cabin, going on a cruise is your chance to vacation your way—all while seeing the world at the same time. 

How to choose your cruise 

There are some essential questions to ask yourself when it comes to choosing the cruise that’s right for you: 

1. Destination: Picking the right destination ensures that your cruise lives up to your expectations, whether you're keen to soak up the sun in Central America or marvel at Canada's landscapes. Simply input your desired port of call into Orbitz's search bar, and the site will do the rest.
2. Duration: Cruises run the gamut from weekend breaks to multi-month voyages—you decide which works better for you and your schedule.
3. Time of year: A winter cruise to Africa could be a wonderful way to catch some sunshine, while the islands of the South Pacific come into their own for a romantic summer getaway. 
4. Atmosphere: Certain cruise lines are well-known for being more laid-back, while others pride themselves on a refined, high-class experience at sea. Just use Orbitz's checkbox filter to tailor your results accordingly. 
5. Price: If you're looking to cut costs, consider opting for a lower-cost cruise line, traveling in the off-season, or going for a shorter length of time. 

How to find a cheap cruise 

One great way to cut the cost of your cruise in 2024 is by booking well in advance: The further ahead you book, the cheaper prices tend to be. It's worth thinking about the specific type of cruise you want to take, too. It's obvious that shorter cruises usually cost less than longer ones, but certain cruise lines are also known for being on either the cheaper—or pricier—end of the spectrum. Saving money isn't just about the booking process, either: What you do onboard impacts the cost of your cruise trip overall. Consider prioritizing low-cost or free activities and avoiding any premium add-ons like beverage packages if you're looking for the cheapest cruising experience. 

How to find a romantic cruise 

With Orbitz, the vision of sailing off into the sunset with your beloved needn't remain a figment of your imagination. Make your dream a reality by searching for a suitably charming destination—like the untouched Galapagos Islands. Then, use the handy filters to tailor your results to the ideal couples' cruise deal. Ramp up the romance with a balcony stateroom or even a suite, for instance, or check out specific cruise lines, such as Celebrity Cruises or Princess Cruises, that are known for catering to couples and adult travelers. 

Passport requirements for a cruise 

• If your cruise starts and ends at the same port within the US and stays within the Western hemisphere, you theoretically don't need a passport. That's because this is classed as a “closed-loop cruise.” Most cruise lines will accept valid government-issued forms of ID, such as your driver's license, on these voyages. 

• If you're returning to a different port, or traveling outside the Western hemisphere, like on a trip to the Middle East, you will need a passport in order to travel. 

• This can vary depending on your cruise line, so be sure to check the terms and conditions for your specific sailing. 

Food costs when cruising 

On most ships, basic dining options like the main buffet are included as part of your cruise package. If you're looking for something a little more special, though, you might have to pay extra for it. It's not unusual for cruise lines to charge a fee to dine at specialty on-board restaurants. These tend to be smaller venues, such as steakhouses or seafood restaurants, offering a more premium variety of food. Certain operators offer these themed dining experiences at no additional cost, so it's worth checking out what the situation is on your ship. 

Cruise bookings: Cancellations and refunds 

Be it a sudden bout of illness, an unexpected work emergency, or a scheduling conflict, there are all kinds of reasons why you might not be able to set sail as planned. Luckily, certain cruises booked through Orbitz are available with free cancellation, so you won't necessarily need to pay for a trip you can't take. Be sure to check your cruise line's cancellation policy so you know what applies in your case. 

Why book a cruise through Orbitz 

With Orbitz, you'll be casting off on your vacation sooner than you can say “Ship ahoy!” Thanks to the array of handy filters and search tools, Orbitz makes finding your dream cruise a breeze—whether that's to colorful Mexico or along the historic Panama Canal. And with all kinds of amazing, hand-picked deals on cruise bookings, your seafaring adventure could cost you less than you'd expect.