Hi
We have never done a cruise before. Partly because we are afraid,.... or I am that I will be 'over served' and I will end up like some sorry person in the water like on Dateline NBC.
I am big time claustraphobic, so I am thinking a suite, how big are they? And, what about the concierge service, what do they do for you? What is included n this whole thing?
Any cruise help will be so appreciated cause I have NO CLUE as to what I am doing..other than I am thinking about attaching myself to a bunge cord.Close to the bar,..of course
Tell me anything. I will soo appreciate it

It's pretty tough to fall off a cruise ship. A couple of idiots do every few years, but that's out of about 12 million passengers. You're more likely to win the lottery.

As to the claustraphobia, cabins aren't terribly large--usually about 200 square feet. If you think this will be a problem, perhaps a cruise isn't for you...

You can not fall overboard unassisted unless you do something incredibly stupid - way beyond what a normal person would do even very drunk. I am talking about serious climbing. Ralings are high enough to protect even a serious leaner or drunk stumbler.

I am not all that fond of heights or closed spaces and have done fine on a cruise. Get an outside cabin if you are concerned about that. I thought a balcony would cause me anxiety, but after having one, I now can't imagine not.

The really simple basics. You pay a set amount that includes your lodging (the cabin), food (3 meals, multiple snack opportunities like sushi bar, burgers on deck), on-ship activities (swimming pool, silly contests, shows, music).

What is not included in the set amount - sodas, alcohol, anything you do off the ship, gambling, and perhaps specialty restaurants, shopping.

A big add-on is always tips - figure $5-10 per traveler per day - the cruise line gives you guidelines and often lets you pay on credit card.

Go to one of the on-line travel agent sites (like Travelocity) and use the cruise search feature. Pick length, cost, ports, etc. Then go to websites of various cruiselines and get them to send you some glossy brochures about someplace that seems interesting - they tell you all the basics as well.

What's included or not included depends on the cruise line you choose. Some cruiselines charge for most everything, even something as simple as bottled water. Other cruise lines are all inclusive (luxury lines) where everything including liquor and tips are included.

As for the size of the cabin, again some cruise lines have larger standard cabins.... as large as 356 sq. feet and all with balconies. These ships don't have inside cabins so the halls are wider. Other cruise lines you will have to research and likely opt for a penthouse or owners type suite in order to get over 300 sq. feet. If you're claustrophobic you probably would want a larger cabin.

I'd certainly give cruising a try. Many of us just love it. As for falling overboard, that's rediculous to worry about. It just won't happen.

How old are you? I think, it's easier for a younger person to "over-indulge". Do you know when to stop?

I felt they are trying hard to sell wine at dinners, but after telling the same waitress twice "I'm taking pills, so can't drink" she stopped offering.

Well have fun but do it in moderation. Then no worries. Or need for a bungee cord.

Hey all, A friend sent me this link called cruise bruise. It's not for the week or paranoid. I wanted too many things on here and I'm kinda leary, but it won't stop me from cruising.

Hi,

My advice would be leave your worries behind and have a fabulous time. I would suggest a mini-suite with a balcony. With the curtains drawn back you always have a wonderful view. My first cruise many moons ago had me a nervous wreck since I'm prone to sea sickness. However,by the third day aboard ship I became totally addicted to cruising and have been sailing the seas ever since. The concierge service is a little bit different on each cruise line. Sometimes they're just glorified stewards other times they make reservations for you and see to all of your needs. Once you have decided on a ship you can check out their duties on-line or through your travel agent.

Most of all Stay Savvy!
Hugs,
The Savvy Old Lady
www.thesavvyoldlady.com