Planning a cruise for the holidays and all 'at sea' as to how to go about it? What does a cruise really involve and what do you take with you? Want to know the basics? We give a few suggestions as to how you can go about it and also how you can make it a success with a little meticulous planning.

• There are cruises to suit every budget and they offer good value for your money as the fare will include accommodation, all meals, many onboard activities and plenty of entertainment. You may have to spend a little extra on optional shore excursions, personal services and drinks.
• Whenever the ship docks at a port, you will be allowed to go on your own and explore the place, or if you want you may sign up for some organised activity. You will also visit many places with no hassle of booking hotel rooms or even packing and unpacking your things at every place.
• You may encounter a motley crowd of co-passengers depending on the ship and that particular cruise.
• As for the clothes you should pack, again it depends on the type of cruise you have booked. Generally, cruises are casual by day, on board or ashore. Again, the type of cruise and the occasion dictates the attire for the evening.
• Unless you are the very adventurous kind, you will opt for a cruise that travels in calm waters. However it will do you a world of good if you do a little research about the weather around the place you intend to visit. Also gather information about the latest motion sickness medication that is available and stock yourself suitably.
• Passengers with special needs have to inform the agents well in advance about any special medical, physical or dietary requirements. However, every ship is well equipped with the latest medical facilities and the staff to handle emergency situations.
• Meal times may vary but look out for the buffets. Many special diets are generally accommodated like salt-free, low carb or diabetic diet.
• Both smoking and non smoking tables are provided both in the lounges and dining rooms. Most ships have smoke-free dining rooms.
• Depending on your budget, you can book a room with a porthole view or even a small balcony. The inside cabins however, will have no such view. Most cabins are equipped with twin beds that can be converted to a comfortable double. Also remember that most cabins are only provided with a shower.
• Launderettes or self service laundries as also dry cleaning services are available in most cruise ships.
• Cruises are especially popular among families with children. Supervised activities are always available on any cruise and children are also charged a lower rate.
• If you are a night bird, then a cruise is an ideal place for you. There are live shows, casinos, discos, movie screenings, magic shows and of course, plenty of dancing. A Captain's cocktail party is a fixture in almost every cruise as are the 'passenger talent' shows.
• If you are a lone traveler, then you are at the right place if you are on a cruise as you will have an opportunity to meet other people. Ships have single cabins as well as double staterooms.

Inspired to take that Caribbean cruise or the Alaska cruise, or even closer home " the Singapore/Malaysia cruise?

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