first time cruiser!

Hi all,

I have never been on a cruise before and am just looking into options etc,

It is myself and my boyfriend going we are both 28. I have found a Costa cruise that the itinery sounds really good for, however not really knowing anything about cruising or Costa cruises I don't know if this will be right for us or if there are better options! I've been reading that all lines are different and there is one for everyone but just wondering which one! Also some general reviews on Costa would be great!

Thank you

Welcome to Cruise Critic.

True -- many of have cruise lines that suit us.

It is difficult for any of us to be able to say that Costa would be a good fit for you as we do not know you or what you like.

Ask questions on the Costa board here:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=138

Welcome to Cruise Critic Amy.

If you give us an idea what your budget is, do like dressing for dinner, what type of itinerary, what date range - we can try and point you in the right direction.

Royal Caribbean Line. If you want a younger crowd that caters to families perhaps Royal Caribbean Line would be a good fit. They feature some of the largest ships with Allure and Independence of the Seas. There smaller ships in the Radiance Class are really lovely. Their ships feature many alternative activities like zip-lining, surf riding (flow rider) also, ice skating, in-line skating, rock-climbing, miniature golf.

Cunard: The Queen Mary 2 - the only Ocean Liner plying the seas. A destination in itself, opulent, elegant, gorgeous public rooms. Smaller Cunard ships both Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria equally beautiful, dressy.

Princess - beautiful ships, traditional experience, excellent service. Some very large ships.

MSC has many beautiful ships sailing from Europe, beautiful modern ships, many announcements during the day in up to 5 different languages.

P&O is another option and popular with British travelers.

Holland America Line ships are beautiful they get pidgeonholed for having an older crowd but, no different than most lines. We have sailed with them numerous times and met wonderful people of all ages. Their trademarks are excellent friendly service, traditional ocean liner experience, excellent food.

Celebrity has modern, elegant new ships with a traditional feel.

NCL - Pioneered the Anytime Dining idea where you eat when you like. However, from what I have read on these boards it doesn't seem to always function like clockwork. There are often enormous waits for tables. You have different waiters every night with anytime dining. This cruise line is not a dressy.

Many of us veteran cruisers enjoy traditional seating early around 6:30 pm or late 8:30 pm. You sit at a table for two or twelve the same time each night, with the same waitstaff who know your likes and dislikes. We have met the wonderful people and lifelong friends with this traditional concept dining.

You need to determine the type of cruise line that appeals to you, figure what itinerary you want travel and take it from there, perhaps visit a local travel agent that deals in cruising, there is no charge, they will point you in the right direction.

I often go to the website http://www.shipparade.com they have a vast collection of photographs of every ship cruising today. Many beautiful shots of lounges, public rooms, decks, to give you what these ships offer and what style suits you.

Good Luck,

Jonathan

Here's a link with some info that you might find useful in planning your cruise.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1481929 Let us know which one you choose. (Our favorite is Royal Caribbean.)

Ask around friends and family who have gone on cruises and ask them for a recommendation of a good travel agent who you can sit down with. Bring in what ports you're interested in, what budget you have in mind. Talk about whether you want a relaxing time on board, an active slate of activities, etc.

I second the post suggesting that you consult with a cruise specialist travel agent. Ideally an agent that a friend or family member has used in the past with good experience. They, like CC have vast experience which can benefit your research. Also you may want to Google "cruise videos" and you can get a visual of what some of the onboard features are like on cruise ships. Welcome to cruising.