Choosing where to cruise is the first big decision. Here are the destination questions Premier Travelers clients ask most — from best timing to passport rules and what to pack.
The Bahamas or Western Caribbean are ideal first cruises — short flights, warm weather, and forgiving itineraries with a mix of beach and port days. A 3–4 night Bahamas sailing from Florida is the easiest possible introduction to cruising.
June through August is peak season for warm weather and daylight; May and September offer fewer crowds and lower prices with slightly cooler weather. The Alaska cruise season runs from late April through early October.
Closed-loop cruises departing and returning to the same U.S. port do not always require a passport, but we recommend carrying one for every traveler as a safeguard. Any international, one-way, or repositioning cruise requires a valid passport book.
Overwater villas in Bora Bora, cliffside Santorini, and all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya are among our most-booked honeymoon destinations. The right choice depends on your travel style, budget, and time of year.