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"Best Cruise Line for First-Timers" - Cruise Critic editor's choice
First time cruisers, do you have questions about cruising, planning or booking a cruise? Then you're in the right place. This overview will introduce you to what makes cruising such a unique and memorable way to travel, where you can go, what the rooms are like, what you can do on board, and how to get started planning.
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Why cruise?
An easy and convenient way to travel
New cruisers will find that the convenience of sailing can’t be beat. You'll experience the best of each region you visit while only unpacking once. Your only task is to wake up every morning in the world's most exciting and interesting cities and welcome each day's new adventures. And Princess Cruises makes sailing a breeze for first-time cruisers. For example, our 12-day British Isles voyage includes 10 ports of call visiting iconic cities like Paris, Dublin, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Unbeatable value
There's nothing quite like the value of a Princess® vacation. Your cruise fare includes accommodations, dining, entertainment and an endless array of activities. Plus, thanks to our award-winning cruise vessels, your transportation from one city to the next is taken care of — no need for airfare, trains or motorcoaches to get you to each unforgettable destination.
That feeling of being taken care of
You'll be right at home without a care in the world. From sunup to late into the night, we are there to anticipate your every need. And by the voyage's end, our crew will feel just like family.
Refreshing sea air
There's nothing quite like being out on the open seas with warm ocean breezes caressing your face. During sea days, you can chill to the max or be as active as you wish. The world is your oyster!
Tips for your first cruise
Pack smart and dress right
If you’re new to cruising, you might not know that there are sometimes dress codes, particularly for dining venues, as well as theme nights. Check dress guidelines, which can range from casual to formal. Pack weather-appropriate clothes for the destinations your cruise visits — and don’t forget your swimsuit!
Choose shore excursions
Shore excursions give you a deeper understanding of the different places you'll visit. Booking award-winning Princess excursions guarantees convenience and reliability — especially if the trips run late, as the ship will wait for you. If you choose to book an independent excursion, you'll need to ensure it aligns with the ship’s schedule to avoid being left behind.
Understand tipping and service charges
Knowing how service charges work will help you avoid double-tipping during your cruise, especially on bar bills, where a service charge is often included. Familiarize yourself with tipping policies to ensure you're tipping appropriately without unnecessary additional expenses.
Maximize embarkation day
Make the most of your first day on board to ensure a fantastic time and easier navigation during your trip. Board early to explore the ship, enjoy lunch and possibly dip in the pool. Participate in ship tours, if available, to get acquainted with the layout. Then, get ready to set sail on your first cruise adventure!
What’s included on a Princess cruise?
Unique experiences you’ll love
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for new cruisers
- Where can I go?
- What are the rooms like?
- What is there to do on board?
- What can kids do?
- How do I plan?
A Princess cruise ship sits majestically in a sheltered Alaskan bay, surrounded by lush green mountains dusted with snow.
Wherever there's an ocean, Princess can take you there.
New to cruising with Princess? These are the most popular destinations for first-timer cruisers:
Alaska
Caribbean
Europe
View all cruise destinations
Shore Excursions help you make the most of your time in port.
These are escorted tours that will take you to the most memorable sites and let you experience the culture. Princess offers a variety of shore excursions to first time cruisers based on interests, activity levels as well as some tailored for families.
View our shore excursions page
Explore farther inland on a cruisetour.
A cruisetour combines a cruise with a multi-night land tour to inland destinations that the ship can't reach.
A beautifully appointed Princess stateroom offers plush bedding and warm lighting for a hotel-quality experience at sea.
All staterooms include:
- 100% cotton, high-thread-count linens
- flat-screen TV
- refrigerator
- safe
- little extras you find in nice hotels
We offer a wide range of stateroom options from balcony staterooms to more expansive mini suites, as well as our Reserve Collection Mini Suites, which feature VIP touches. There are also full suites with premium upgrades and complimentary features, like laundry and professional cleaning services. Budget-conscious travelers love our ocean view and interior staterooms. For groups and families, we offer the convenience of connecting staterooms and family suites, which sleep up to eight guests.
Two smiling adults holding food and beverages on an outdoor cruise ship deck with other passengers visible in the background.
In a word – plenty. There are so many choices, it’s hard to list them all. But one of the best parts about cruising is there are activities for everyone, from the very young to the young at heart. (And, of course, do-nothing days are perfectly acceptable too!)
Only on a Princess® cruise can you spend the evening taking in Movies Under the Stars® with blankets and popcorn. Meet friends for a snack, glass of wine and street performer-style entertainment in the Piazza. Or spend a few kid-free hours relaxing in The Sanctuary with a massage and sea views. And if dining is your favorite pastime, you have your pick of everything from a multicourse meal in a formal dining room or award-winning specialty restaurant to a world-of-options buffet and hand-tossed pizza by the pool.
Teens engage in friendly competition at a Connect Four board, reflecting the fun, counselor-led activities in Princess's Youth Centers.
Our Youth Centers and Teen Lounges are staffed by experienced counselors, who are ready to ensure your kids stay happy all day long. There’s everything from art projects, games, the latest movies, pizza parties, talent shows, and much more. Princess has developed engaging new youth programming and wonder-filled center designs for cruisers ages 3 to 17 to play, discover and create.
A server presents dishes to a couple at one of Princess's many dining options, from casual poolside bites to formal restaurants.
Tips for First Time Cruisers:
- Visit our FAQ page where you will find answers to frequently asked questions about cruising, planning, packing and more!
- Also please check out 5 cruise tips for first time cruisers.
- Download or order a free brochure.
How do I book?
- Find a travel agent to help with your planning needs.
- Visit our Cruise Vacation Planning page and they'll contact you at your convenience.
- Or book right on this very website!
