• Look over the ports of call. They will be a major part of the cruise. Check out where you’ll be going and what there is to do there.  Ask about the types of the shore excursions available.  Consider your preferences. Do you enjoy shopping, sightseeing, exotic nature, sports, historical sites or culture?  Remember to pick ports of call that will interest you.

• www.towd.com  Check the Tourism Offices Worldwide Directory web site. It provides a collection of addresses, phone numbers and web links to many foreign governments’ official tourism offices. It also contains a feature that lists contact information and web links for official U.S. State Tourism Offices, regional, city and convention and visitor bureau sites.

• Check ahead of time about the cost of the shore excursions offered.  There are usually a variety of ship sponsored shore excursions.  The cost can range from as little as twenty dollars to more than several hundred.  Know the costs in advance so you can determine the complete cruise package price.  Similar shore excursions can range in cost from one line to another.  Shore excursions can also be a safety issue.  Read more in the "Cruise Safety" section.

Check the cruise line’s web page.  Many lines encourage you to book in advance before you reach the ship.  There will also be information in your documents package.  Once on the ship, there will be a lecture regarding each port of call and a list and description of the available shore excursions.  Someone will be available to answer your questions and book the packages.

• Check the general itinerary to see if you are interested.

• Is it fully escorted or just transportation ?

• Is there free time built in so you can just wander ?

• How much walking or physical activity is required ?

• Is any food included or are you on your own ?

• Does the excursion include all admissions or fees or will there be additional charges ?

• No.  You can just walk or take a cab if you are docked at port.  If you are moored outside of port, you will take one of the ship’s tenders to the dock.  Some ships have a free shuttle to take you to the more popular areas.  You may wander on your own or stay on board.  Port time is your own time..