Discover and Plan Romantic Tropical Cruises

A Guide to Romantic Tropical Cruises

A Guide on How to Find Tropical Cruises, What to Expect, and Tips on How to Get the Most out of Your Cruise

When you think of exotic travel and romantic vacations, tropical cruises are one of the first things that come to mind! With the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico right at our doorstep, a cruise vacation is an easy, affordable and great romance break anytime.

Most cruise ports in the U.S. are only a few hours away by plane from the major cities in the country.

A Cruise vacation is an excellent choice for couples:

Ships and onboard activities are ideal for romantic evenings and excursions.
Cruise packages usually look after everything – you are truly “on holiday” when you board the ship. No fumbling with road maps, trying to find a place to stay or a decent restaurant. Less hassle = more quality time together!
Many cruises visit several ports-of-call, which increases the likelihood of finding that special “just perfect” spot you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Some couples are choosing to spend their honeymoon, anniversary or Christmas on a tropical cruise - a nice time to be on a "floating resort"!

To help you select, let’s first find out about the major cruise lines. We’ll also include some valuable tips when booking your holiday and while on board the boat.

Choosing a Tropical Cruise Line

There are about 3 different levels of cruise ship companies. It’s a good bet you would have a great time on any of them, but knowing in advance what to expect will help you make a good choice and get maximum value for your money.

Here’s a look at some of them:

Standard Tropical Cruises: Carnival, Costa, Disney, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Regal Cruises

Features: Huge modern boats carry many passengers, lots and lots of activities and shore excursions, big choice of recreation facilities and programs, glitzy entertainment, nice cabins, and mainstream cruise dining.

Probably best suited to families and those on a budget. The wide range of programs and options for kids might allow parents some more romantic time together!

First Class Tropical Cruises: Celebrity, Holland America, Orient Lines, Princess Cruises

Features: Large ships with slightly fewer passengers which gives a little more of a roomy feeling. Good choice of excursions, and staterooms are very attractive. Good variety of entertainment with some romantic options. Choice of deluxe dining or more traditional cruise eating.

Would suit couples, singles or family. A nice balance of features and price.

Luxury Tropical Cruises: Crystal, Cunard Line, Radisson Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, Windstar

Features: Variety of different boats and ships with plenty of room for everyone. Luxurious rooms with many extras, outside balconies, even suites. Emphasis on cultural activities and excursions, with deluxe entertainment. Spas, health clubs, educational classes, and more. Dining is exquisite.

A quieter atmosphere, this is preferred by couples and singles looking for a more sophisticated and romantic travel experience.

Good to Remember:

When working on your cruise budget, allow for extra expenses like shore excursions, tips and poolside drinks, etc. Also, a general rule is that rooms on higher decks are more expensive.

Tipping is expected on most tropical cruises, except on some luxury lines.

Tropical Cruise Clothing: Daytime-casual, including swim and beach wear. Evenings-more formal, and a dress for the ladies and suit/sport jacket for men are usually requested.

...and don't forget plenty of sunscreen.

Sea Sick? The big tropical cruise ships have stabilizers on them for a very smooth ride, but if you’re still worried, think about bringing some motion-sickness medication. Generally, the smoothest areas to choose a cabin in are the lower, mid-ship. A stateroom with a view, while otherwise very desireable, may give you trouble - ahoy, it's the rolling sea! The cabins to the front and rear of the ship will be subject to the largest movements.

Waters are generally very calm, but keep in mind that hurricane season in the Atlantic and Caribbean usually runs from about June to November.

When tropical cruise shopping, always look for any freebies and discounts that can come your way - like shipboard credits, cabin upgrades, and airfare deals.

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