Ocean Cruises
Set sail on the adventure of a lifetime. From the Caribbean's turquoise waters to Alaska's icy fjords, ocean cruising offers the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation—unpack once and wake up somewhere new each day.
Last updated: May 2025
Best Time to Visit
Varies by destination
Average Temperature
Varies by itinerary
Flight Time
Depends on departure port
Currency
Varies (ships use USD)
Language
English (+ local languages)
Highlights & Adventures
Caribbean island hopping
Alaska glacier viewing
Mediterranean cultural immersion
Mexican Riviera beach days
World-class dining and entertainment
Hassle-free multi-destination travel
My Personal Take on Ocean Cruises
"I've planned everything from Caribbean getaways to 16-night Hawaiian cruises and Panama Canal crossings. The biggest thing I tell people: the ship matters as much as the itinerary. A mega-ship with waterslides is a completely different vacation than a boutique ship with 200 guests. Let me match you to the right experience."
— Gretchen Ode, Signature Travel Expert
Insider Tips You Won't Find Online
- →Book early — 6-12 months ahead gets you the best cabin selection, early booking discounts, and often included onboard credits and gratuities.
- →Book specialty dining on embarkation day. The popular restaurants fill up fast and you'll miss out if you wait.
- →Ship excursions guarantee you get back to the ship on time, but independent tours can save 40-50%. I'll tell you which ports are safe to DIY and which aren't worth the risk.
- →A power strip (non-surge) and magnetic hooks are cruise cabin game-changers. The cabins have very few outlets and almost no storage hooks.
Honest Take: Ocean Cruises Might Not Be For You If…
If you get seasick easily and haven't tested it, consider a river cruise first — the motion is minimal. For ocean cruises, I can recommend calmer itineraries and cabins with the least movement.
Not sure if Ocean Cruises is the right fit? Let's talk — I'll help you find the destination that matches what you're actually looking for.
Planning Tips from Gretchen
Book 6-12 Months Ahead
Best cabins and perks sell out fast. Early booking often includes discounts, onboard credits, and included gratuities.
Choose the Right Ship
Mega-ships offer activities; boutique ships offer intimacy. Consider your priorities—action or relaxation?
Book Specialty Dining Early
Popular restaurants fill up quickly. Make reservations as soon as booking opens or on embarkation day.
Research Shore Excursions
Ship excursions offer convenience and guaranteed return. Independent tours can save money but require planning.
Packing Guide for Ocean Cruises
A comprehensive packing list tailored specifically for your Ocean Cruises adventure.
Formal Nights
- Cocktail dress or suit
- Dress shoes
- Jewelry/accessories
- Shawl or light jacket (AC)
- Ties/pocket squares (optional)
Casual Wear
- Smart casual resort wear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimsuits (2-3)
- Coverups for pool deck
- Layers for varying climates
- Comfortable evening wear
Shore Excursions
- Day backpack
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain jacket
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Cross-body bag for security
- Camera
Cruise Essentials
- Lanyard for ship card
- Power strip (no surge)
- Magnetic hooks for cabin
- Sea bands for motion
- Binoculars for wildlife
- Collapsible water bottle
Cultural Etiquette
Travel like a local
- 1Respect dress codes—formal nights are tradition
- 2Tip cabin stewards and waitstaff daily
- 3Research each port's customs before arrival
- 4Don't hog deck chairs with towels
- 5Be punctual for dinner reservations
- 6Keep noise levels down in cabin hallways
Visa Information
For US Citizens
Requirements vary by itinerary. US citizens may need visas for certain ports. Cruise line will advise on specific requirements for your sailing.
Note: Visa requirements change frequently. I'll help verify current requirements when planning your trip and ensure all your documents are in order.
Your Ocean Cruises Specialist
Gretchen holds 6 specialized certifications for Ocean Cruises, backed by firsthand travel experience and relationships with over 60 trusted suppliers. Her services are complimentary — she earns through supplier partnerships, not fees to you.
Paul Gauguin Cruises PEARLS
Paul Gauguin Cruises
Viking Certified Expert
Viking
NCL University Master's Degree
Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess Academy Commodore
Princess Cruises
Royal Caribbean Master of Adventure
Royal Caribbean International
Carnival Learn & Earn Graduate
Carnival Cruise Line
Why This Matters for Your Trip
These aren't decorative badges — each certification means Gretchen has completed in-depth training directly from tourism boards and resort partners. She knows the best room views, hidden excursion gems from locals, how transfers actually work, and which dining reservations you need to book in advance. With a 90% repeat client rate, her expertise saves you time, money, and the stress of planning.
Official Resources
Ready to Explore Ocean Cruises?
Let me handle all the details—from flights and accommodations to creating your perfect day-by-day itinerary. Your dream trip to Ocean Cruises starts with a free consultation.