We’ve been talking a lot about cruises recently – mainly because Cruises are doing surprisingly well this year, and there has been a lot to talk about. Since i’ve just recently become interested in cruises, and have learned a few things that surprised me about them, I thought it might be a good idea to put together a list of things that you might not know, or that you need to be sure to do, before taking your first cruise.

1. Get your Travel Documents in order – You will need a passport if you’re going out of the country, and many Cruises do. Travel Document requirements can change from time to time, so you should check out the US Department of State website to make sure you have everything you’ll need.

2. Assigned seating or not? - When I first started looking at cruises I was surprised to see that there is assigned seating on most cruise lines where you and your guests will be sitting with others at large tables. Several cruise ships are starting to handle this differently, allowing you to sit where ever you like, but if they don’t specifically mention a “free style” dining experience, you may be sitting with people you don’t know. If you’re uncomfortable with that, then you should plan accordingly.

3. Great Deals are easy to find – if you’re flexible – If you’re willing to gamble a bit on your cruise, and you have a flexible schedule for when you can leave and when you can come back – you can book your own cruise for a fraction of the cost that you might expect. By hunting for bargains, you can find ships that are still looking to see some of their remaining rooms for the voyage. Ships often reduce to price of rooms as it closer and closer to their date of departure. If you look around online you can find many places that will help you take advantage of this and find some truly great cruise packages for very little money.

4. Just because you buy it, doesn’t mean you can take it home – US Customs has some pretty strict rules on what you can and can’t bring into the United States, and there are many things you can spend your money on in other countries that customs will force you to hand over to them when you come back State-side. So you should take the time before hand to read the US Custom’s “Know before you Go” website. It will save you a lot time and trouble.

5. You can stay connected, but don’t forget to have fun – Most cruise ships these days have Internet connections in either business centers on the ships, or sometimes as wi-fi throughout the vessel. That’s a great way to keep in touch with your family, friends, and yes – even the office. Don’t forget, however – you’re ON VACATION! Have fun! Don’t work! Relax and enjoy yourself. You have plenty of time to files those TPS reports when you get back.