Cruising is a wonderful experience - a combination of style and luxury, allowing you to see the world from a different perspective. There are a wide variety of cruises to choose from, sailing all year round, to different destinations, from the Far East to Europe to the Caribbean and North America.
Here is your guide to planning your cruise vacation.

1. Plan early.  Cruise vessels are huge, but like all hotels, rooms are limited and sold on a first come, first serve basis. Planning early will help you get the sailing dates of your choice and give you sufficient time for visa formalities and maybe earn you a discount.
2. Selecting your cruise.   From a minimum three days/two nights up to a 60 - 70 day world cruise, you have a world of options before you. Ask your travel agent for brochures and DVDs as they contain itineraries and will help you visualise what to expect.
3. Visas.   Depending on your destination, a visa can be sanctioned from anywhere between six working days to six months. You may require double or multiple entry visas, depending on how you plan your journey.
4. Avoid cancellation charges.  Cruise operators have very strict cancellation policies and the charges are heavy. When booking, plan carefully or you may end up paying 100% cancellation charges. Also before sailing, ensure that you have all relevant travel documents with you, as insufficient documentation may lead to your boarding being denied, and no refund will be made.
5. All included.   A reason cruises are so popular is because they are all inclusive packages; meals, drinks, entertainment and services are all included. As cruise operators have different policies, ask your travel agent for details on what's included and what's not.
6. Extras.  Every day you will receive an onboard schedule to help you plan what to do, and when you are at a port of call, you will have the option of several excursions to enhance your experience.