Cruises
Ocean, river or expedition: how to choose the cruise, the cabin and the season, and what is usually included in the price.
On a cruise your hotel travels with you: you unpack once and wake up in a different port almost every day. The right choice depends on the type of cruise, the season and what is included.
Types of cruise
- Ocean cruises: large ships with plenty to do on board; ideal for families and for seeing several coastal cities.
- River cruises: small boats on rivers such as the Danube, the Rhine or the Douro; a calm pace and stops right in the town centre.
- Expedition cruises: small ships for places such as Antarctica, the Galápagos or the Arctic, with guides and landings by small boat.
When to go
- Mediterranean: the main season generally runs from April to November.
- Norwegian fjords: May to September.
- Caribbean: all year round; the Atlantic hurricane season runs from 1 June to 30 November, when cruise lines may change ports of call.
- Alaska: May to September.
- Douro: river cruises generally run from spring to autumn.
Choosing your cabin
- Inside: the most affordable option.
- Ocean view or balcony: natural light and a view; a balcony is worth it on scenic itineraries such as the fjords or Alaska.
- Midship and on a lower deck you feel less movement, which helps if you get seasick.
What is usually included (and what is not)
- Usually included: your cabin, meals in the main restaurants and entertainment on board.
- Often extra: drinks (packages are available), specialty restaurants, shore excursions, port taxes and gratuities or service charges, which some lines charge per day. Check what the price includes before comparing.
Documents and boarding
- Bring a passport or identity card according to the itinerary and the ports; some countries require a visa. Itineraries with ports outside the EU usually require a passport, and cruise lines may ask for one even within the EU.
- If you fly to the port, arrive the day before so you don't miss the ship.
How a Travel Partner helps
An iCliGo Travel Partner compares cruise lines and itineraries, explains what each fare includes, chooses the right cabin with you and arranges flights, hotel and transfers to the port.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an ocean and a river cruise?
Ocean cruises use large ships with many activities on board and sail between coastal cities. River cruises use small boats, with a calmer pace and stops right in town centres.
What is not included in the price of a cruise?
It depends on the cruise line, but drinks, specialty restaurants, shore excursions, port taxes and gratuities are often charged separately. Always check what the fare includes.
Which cabin is best if you get seasick?
A cabin midship and on a lower deck, where you feel the movement less. A window or balcony also helps, because you can see the horizon.
Do I need a passport for a cruise?
It depends on the itinerary and your nationality. Within the EU, EU citizens can travel with an identity card, but cruise lines may require a passport, and it is required when there are ports outside the EU. Always check the rules of the cruise line and of each port.