Your Guide to a Hassle-Free Cruise

Many people dream of going on a cruise at least once in their lifetime, and those who don't like to fly may even prefer to regularly travel by boat. However, this method of travel is like few others; once you're out to sea, there's no turning back. Therefore, going on a cruise requires some firm commitment, and, typically, a bit of flexibility and a good amount of planning. While your vacation is going to be somewhat out of your control once the ship hits open waters, you can help ensure that everything goes swimmingly by doing your homework up front. This guide to a hassle-free cruise provides helpful tips to get you started planning your next open-water adventure.

Your homework assignment Planning a hassle-free cruise, while potentially nerve-wracking, is actually quite simple, because most cruise packages are all-inclusive. If shopping for hotels, airfare, attractions and dining options is more vacation planning than you can handle, you'll likely enjoy the ease of booking a cruise. With that said, it's still important that you do your homework. Carefully read package details -- including fine print -- to see what's included in the cost of the cruise, such as things like food, drinks and gratuity. Note that free alcoholic drinks aren't typically included (we can only dream!), except maybe within a cocktail hour when the ship first leaves the dock. Things that are often included for free are on-deck games, live shows and room service (aside from the tip).

Of course, it's not all about what happens on the boat. Eventually, you're going to get to your destination, and you'll want to get out and explore. Note that you'll likely pay extra for shore excursions, like a bike ride through Italy, shopping at an Alaskan market or scuba diving in the Grand Caymans. You should also budget for any other activities you plan to participate in off the ship, including shopping, dining and local tourist attractions. However, the most important thing to remember about shore excursions isn't about saving money; rather, it's staying safe by sticking with your group and keeping track of the time -- you don't want to wander into an unsafe area or be left behind!

Booking an affordable cruise If saving money is important to you (we're jealous if it's not), you'll want to sign up for e-mail alerts from travel websites and daily deals websites, which will alert you of great cruise deals right in your inbox. This takes much of the hassle out of searching for a cruise. If your schedule is flexible enough to allow last-minute trips, you can really get in on some good deals, because under-booked cruises are often highly discounted at the final hours.

Planning an off-season cruise is another way to save money. You can save throughout the year, because each type of destination tends to have a different off-season. For example, European cruises are typically cheaper from December through March. Alaska's cruise off-season overlaps, running from October to April. The Canadian cruise off-season is roughly from July through August. Within each season you'll find particular dates that are even further discounted, so keep your eye out.

Several other things should be considered before booking your cruise, beyond getting a good deal on your desired destination. For example, different cruise lines and even particular cruise ships offer different amenities. Some cruises are family-friendly, while others are for adults only, possibly designed specifically for certain demographics, like singles looking to mingle or couples looking for romance away from the kids. Make sure you look into all these details carefully before you book your cruise. Be prepared to provide personal info for anyone who's coming along for the ride. This is for the sake of everyone's safety and security.

Choosing your accommodations Prices -- and your on-board experience -- can vary significantly depending on the type of accommodations you choose. Staterooms are one option, and standard cabin types generally include below deck with a view, above deck with a view and above deck with a balcony. If you're worried about feeling too confined on your first cruise, you might splurge on the balcony room to ensure that you're easily able to get some fresh air. If money isn't really an option (again, we're jealous!), some cruise lines offer suites.

You also might be asked to choose your dining schedule up front. This is generally as simple as selecting to eat early or late. Not too difficult, but do think it through before you check that box, because you're expected to stick with the schedule throughout the cruise. Not only does this ensure that there's enough to go around, but you'll also likely have assigned seating and be served by the same wait staff each meal.

All about money and tipping Paying for as many aspects of your trip ahead of time makes for a more hassle-free cruise. Some cruise lines even allow you to pre-pay for mandatory tips, which is great if carrying cash or the act of tipping itself makes you uncomfortable. Of course, you may still want to have some cash on hand for unexpected tipping, such as when someone goes above and beyond or helps you out of a pinch. Some high-end cruises automatically include gratuity in the cruise package, but most others expect that guests will tip by their own accord, whether you pay up front or as-you-go.

Remember, as in other service industries, cruise ship staff members are often paid a low wage, with the expectation that tips will make up the difference. It's another way for a business to keep their costs low, while actually getting the consumer to pay for more. Whether you like this system or not, remember that it's not the staff member's fault or choice, and they have bills to pay and families to feed, just like you do.

Once you're on board the ship, it's also a good idea to put money on your room key, which is like a cruise ship's private debit card. This way, you don't have to worry about leaving your credit card at the ship's bar, or, God forbid, dropping it overboard.

All this information might make booking a cruise seem like an overwhelming task, but this guide to a hassle-free cruise has already covered most of what you need to know before you book your cruise. Now, all you have to do is get up to speed about the specific destination and cruise line of your choice, and you can look forward to a hassle-free vacation on the high seas!