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Trent & Debbie Wheeler
(786) 505-7380
Clearwater, FL
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Before your next cruise #1

January 15, 2026 by Trent Wheeler |
Cruising

Make advance preparation.  For many people taking a cruise is about dates and port locations (and perhaps eating too much), but there is so much more to planning an unforgettable vacation.  Once you have two or three cruises in mind, take a few minutes to research each port and see what is available. Are you a foodie? If so, what are the best local eats? Are you interested in local cultural activities?  Are you a thrill seeker? I can't tell you how many times some will say, "I always wanted to visit __________, only to be disappointed because the port didn't live up to the hype, or meet their travel expectations.

Explore Excursion Options.  While we strongly recommend booking excursions through the ship (or your local travel advisor), there are at times options that the cruise ship doesn't offer, or you can safely schedule on your own without fear of missing your departure time.  One one cruise, we opted to schedule our own transport into Merida, Mexico. Our cost was significantly less than the "tour" and once we finished walking around the city, we also returned to port ahead of the buses, allowing us time to shop and visit the ship buffet.

DO NOT book excursions with lengthy travel times, or all day activities outside the ship or travel advisor.  I was sitting in port in St. Thomas when I met a nice couple at a port restaurant and asked them if they were on our ship. "No, we thought we would grab a taxi back in time for our departure, but when it was time to return we couldn't find a taxi, bus, or even a private resident to drive us back.  We are flying to the next port in the morning."  Their effort to save a few bucks on excursions cost them hundreds in airline tickets and a lost day of cruising.

Finally, when it comes to excursions, don't skip over the physical activity levels. If an excursion is marked strenuous you need to take that seriously.  Steep incline hikes, whitewater rafting, biking or paddling for hours can take its toll, especially if you are in a climate you are unaccustomed to.