Set Sail This October: Celebrate Plan a Cruise Month

October is officially Plan a Cruise Month, a global push to inspire travelers to explore, plan, and ultimately book their next cruise. It’s the perfect time to learn what cruising has to offer — and why it might be your ideal style of vacation. 

Why Cruise Now?

Cruising delivers a “vacation all in one package” experience. From sumptuous meals and lively entertainment to day trips and on-board amenities, most essentials are included in the price.  Add-ons like shore excursions, extra dining venues, or beverage packages may cost more, but many lines let you prepay or select them in advance.

Want to relax? Explore? Savor gourmet food? Cruise ships let you do all of that in one trip — and you can choose how much or how little activity you want each day. 

Types of Cruises to Consider

During Plan a Cruise Month, cruise lines spotlight their offerings and deals across many styles. Some popular options include:

• Short or introductory cruises — perfect for first-timers to test the waters. 
• Ocean cruises — sail across seas, visiting multiple ports and vibrant destinations.
• Luxury cruises — elevated service, gourmet dining, and curated experiences.
• Expedition cruises — venture to remote regions like Antarctica or the Arctic with expert guides. 
• River cruises — more intimate voyages navigating rivers through Europe, Asia, and beyond. 

For those going abroad, note that airfare often becomes a significant cost. Many seasoned cruisers book a day or two before or after their cruise to better manage time and jet lag. 

How to Make the Most of Plan a Cruise Month

1. Work with a cruise-specialist travel advisor — agents (especially CLIA-certified or Master Cruise Counselors) have industry knowledge, can spot deals, and ask the right questions. 
2. Watch for promotions — during October, many cruise lines and agencies release new offers, discounts, or added perks.
3. Decide on cruise length — start with shorter trips to gauge what you enjoy, then scale up. 
4. Pick your style and region — whether the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, or exotic expedition routes, match your interests to the itinerary.
5. Get everything in writing — ensure you know what’s included (meals, entertainment, onboard amenities) and what may be extra (gratuities, specialty dining, shore tours, WiFi).

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered whether cruising is for you, Plan a Cruise Month is your invitation to explore with fewer barriers and more insight. With the right guidance, you can find a cruise that matches your pace, interests, and travel dreams. Don’t just dream about the sea — plan to sail.