New cruiser thinking about gift for family
 

Never having been on a cruise, I am in charge of finding a great package (meaning budget) for a family of five.
And, I know nothing about cruises!
Any ideas welcome. The timeline is over the Christmas Holidays.
Can you start me off with a few websites?
Of course, a cruise near Europe would be great, but, likely it will be nearer the US.
All help greatly appreciated!

Wanderinggirl:

We're going to need some more info. before we can help.

1. Over the Christmas holidays is an expensive time to go--can you go a week earlier?

2. What are the ages/interests of people in the family?

3. What state to you live in?

4. What is your budget?

Most of the cruises that time of year (well, any time of year) are going to be in the Caribbean, though of course there are other options...

We took Holland America cruise to eastern Carrib last Dec. It was 7 day on the Maasdam out of Ft. Lauderdale. Great deal-$499 per person. Booked early Nov.

First thing..get a good travel agent!

You can do lots of research on the net, but a travel agent will help you through all of the details.

Depending on the ages of everyone..and if this is extended or immediate family...look at getting 2 cabins instead of one. You'll be much more comfortable than trying to squeeze five people into one cabin.

The Caribbean is going to be your most likely destination for that time of year.

I agree that the week OF Christmas is going to be more expensive. You'll pay a premium just for going that week. Try to go the week before, if possible.

Check out the boards at cruisecritic.com...there is a wealth on information on locations, ships, cabin types, discounts etc

Just received an e-mail from Holland America advertising deals for winter cruises...starting at $499. Check out their website. We get messages through the Mariners Club (repeat business). I booked our 12/02 cruise through Orbitz. We flew to Ft. Lauderdale on Friday before cruise; stayed in Holiday Inn on the beach ($49.00+tax). On Saturday we did some sightseeing-don't miss the water taxi. On Sunday checked out of the hotel mid-afternoon. Got a shuttle bus from hotel to dock. Was like clock work and I'm not a travel agent.