7 Great Cruise Picks for First-Time Cruisers

Go big or go home, right?! You might as well make a splash for your first cruise by stepping foot on the largest cruise in the world set to debut in Europe in May 2016. Since it will be everyone's first time on the ship, you'll be able to explore the new features -- like an interactive aqua park for kids and robot bartender -- without feeling out of the loop. It's ideal for families as there are plenty of activities for kids and larger guest rooms.


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If simple elegance is more your style than an action-packed mega ship, then a more intimate river cruise would be perfect for your first voyage. This eight-day itinerary takes passengers from Basel to Amsterdam aboard either the River Empress or the S.S. Antoinette (depending on departure date) following the magical and picturesque Rhine River. The daily excursions make it easy to explore a number of towns and cities in the heart of Europe.


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Abercrombie & Kent is known for its small group travel and making exploring the world a breeze. Typically focusing on luxury land packages, the company's four new themed cruises offer travelers the same inspiring activities and expert Resident Tour Directors, but priced 30 percent less. You still get four-star-plus and five-star accommodations and no more than 24 guests, as well as included city visits before and after cruising. It doesn't get much easier than that!


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History buffs will love these traditional clipper ships not typically offered to most cruisers. And the glorious masts and billowing sails make it clear from the start that you are embarking on a special voyage. Star Clippers operates three of the world’s largest and tallest sailing vessels: the Royal Clipper, the Star Clipper, and the Star Flyer. The ships visit ports often untouched by larger cruise ships and offering passengers the activities, amenities, and atmosphere of a private yacht. Bonus: everyone is encouraged to help raise the sails, learn how to tie knots, visit the open bridge, lie in the bowsprit net-suspended above the rushing sea, and climb the mast to the Crow’s Nest for a stunning panoramic view. Might as well embrace tradition for your first experience.


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An $8 million makeover of the Celebrity Millennium ship and an eight-night Alaskan itinerary make this cruise perfect for a first timer with an adventurous side. Along with a revamped Penthouse, Royal Suites, and brand-new spaces that no vacationer has seen before (such as the Rooftop Terrace complete with a movie screen), cruisers can choose from a variety of adrenaline pumping activities like the 5-Glacier Seaplane Exploration, Alaska Coastal Expedition, and ATV Expedition and ZipRider.


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Think Disney World, but in the middle of the ocean. That's exactly what this 2,500 passenger ships offers, catering to families with young children. You'll get to experience the traditional magic Disney is known for, but without a high price tag. Included in your rate is dining and a plethora of activities to choose from. Not to mention, just walking around the ship is an experience; there are digital paintings that come to life as you look at them, princess meet-and-greets, and tech-friendly kids' clubs. The ports of call are even out of storybook. You'll dock at Castaway Cay, a private island owned by Disney.


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What better way to test our your first cruise than on one that maximizes your vacation time? Crystal Cruises has curated a number of shorter itineraries that showcase Europe’s must-see destinations and are conveniently scheduled itineraries, including Sunday to Sunday. They afford those with limited travel time the ability to enjoy a dream luxury vacation without overextending their time away from work and other commitments. Crystal’s Monte Carlo-to-Venice, seven-day sailing allows travelers ample time to immerse themselves in cruising with at least one day of sailing and quality time at new and favorite European destinations.


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