On Board for 2026: Your Journey Starts Here
The beauty of a cruise is simple: you unpack once and wake up in a new world. Imagine Trinidad this morning, Barbados tomorrow, and St. Lucia the next. It is the most efficient way to sample multiple destinations, helping you decide where you might return for a deeper exploration. If you are new to cruising, you are in good company and we are here to help.
The New Wave at Sea:
You are part of a travel movement. According to the 2025 CLIA report, first time cruisers are driving industry growth, making up 31 per cent of passengers in the past two years. If you are ready for an adventure at sea but unsure of the first step, our insider tips will guide you from booking to disembarkation.
The Canadian Cruiser by the Numbers
According to Virtuoso travel advisors, when it comes to cruising, Canadians are climbing aboard.
- 20% of travellers ranked a cruise in their Top 5 trips.
- Ocean, river and expedition cruising all ranked in the Top 10 travel trends.
- Interest is surging in Greenland, Iceland and Antarctica to sidestep overtourism.
- Japan is a top destination for families, solo travel and cruises.
TOP 10 CRUISE ITINERARIES
- Mediterranean
- Danube River
- Alaska
- Caribbean
- Greek Isles
- Northern Europe
- Japan
- Antarctica
- Rhine River
- Galápagos Islands
Source: Virtuoso
Essential Tips for First Time Cruisers
1. Master Your Port Timing
If you are new to cruising, you are likely new to the start and end cities too.
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Arrive Early: Always plan to reach your embarkation city at least one day before your sail date. This buffers against flight delays and turns pre cruise stress into bonus exploration time.
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Book Smart for Expeditions: For expedition cruises (like to Antarctica), where weather is key, book your flights directly through the cruise line. They will manage delays and accommodations if you get stuck. Many cruise lines are now offering to book flights as part of the package, with some even providing deep discounts or free flights. It is also worth exploring seasonal sales for other types of cruises. For example, Emerald Cruises is currently running its Great Escapes New Year Sale, offering substantial savings on 2026 European river cruises and yacht voyages when booked by March 31, 2026—a reminder that timing your booking can be as important as timing your travel.
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Explore Extended Port Stays: Many lines, especially river cruise companies, offer pre or post cruise city extensions. Take advantage to deepen your trip.
2. Match the Ship to Your Travel Style
Cruise lines now cater to nearly every niche. Your ideal ship depends on what you want from your vacation.
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For Luxury Hotel Fans: Look to brands like Explora Journeys, or ships launched by Ritz Carlton, Aman and Four Seasons. Accor, the group behind Fairmont, will launch the Orient Express Corinthian in June 2026, with maiden voyages across the Mediterranean, followed by its Caribbean season starting in October 2026.
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For Families & Multi Gen Groups: Consider the ship within a ship concept. MSC’s Yacht Club and Norwegian’s The Haven are like floating boutique hotels with private areas, concierge service and dedicated dining, while still granting full access to the main ship’s waterslides, theatres and vibrant atmosphere.
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For Digital Nomads & Long Stay Travellers: European river cruise lines offer lengthy itineraries. Sail from Amsterdam to Bucharest on the Danube, or take a deep dive into one country. Lines like Scenic combine rivers like the Rhine and Moselle over 14 to 21 day voyages, often with included pre and post cruise excursions.
3. Find the Best Deal
If you are investment shy but want to try cruising, target the “Wave” season the industry’s term for off peak travel periods.
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Europe: With mild temperatures into November, you will find deals and fewer crowds.
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Caribbean: April, May and June typically offer great value.
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Pro Tip: Speak to a travel agent or a cruise line agent. Every question is a valid one, especially when planning your first voyage. Booking the right cruise can make or break your trip.
The Expert Edge: Why a Travel Advisor Matters
Behind every effortless cruise is a travel expert who knows the ships, the seasons and the subtle differences that make all the difference. Advisors can match your passion for wine to a Douro itinerary, your sense of adventure to Alaska, or your craving for holiday magic to a December Rhine sailing.
SMART CRUISE ESSENTIALS
- Gratuities: ~$10–12/day for stateroom staff
- Room Service: Check for fees before ordering
- Wi-Fi: Most ships charge; plan your package ahead
- Transfers: Some are included, some are not – confirm early
Their insights ensure your journey is not only memorable but also mindful and purposeful. Ask about early booking perks, loyalty programmes and the cabins that offer the perfect vantage point.
4. Navigate Your First Onboard Day & Beyond
The embarkation day hustle is unique. A little preparation ensures you start your vacation smoothly.
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Complete Online Check In Early: Fill out all forms, upload identification and select arrival times as soon as your online portal opens. This speeds up your terminal process.
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Understand the Muster Drill: This mandatory safety briefing is now often digital or streamlined. Pay close attention to the instructions on how to complete it upon boarding.
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Book Activities Immediately: Once onboard, connect to the ship’s wifi (even without a paid plan) and use the cruise line app to book popular specialty dining, shows and shore excursions. Prime times sell out fast.
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Budget for Onboard Spending: Your fare covers accommodations, main dining and basic entertainment. Plan for extras like gratuities, premium drinks packages, specialty restaurants, wifi and spa treatments. Setting a daily budget helps avoid bill shock.
WHAT TO BOOK
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
With chef-driven culinary programs, thoughtful wellness initiatives and each ship kitted out with a marina that links you directly with the water, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a floating luxury hotel. Three ships are currently sailing: Evrima, Ilma and Luminaria; right now we are dreaming of a Pacific cruise in Tahiti. Seven nights on the Evrima, round trip from Papeete, including stops at Bora Bora and Mo’orea.
Culinary Cruising with Emerald Yacht Cruises
If you have got a craving for experiencing a culture through its food, what better way to do it than to take a cruise with a top Canadian chef? Emerald Yacht Cruises has announced its latest specialty culinary voyage: the Mediterranean, hosted by celebrated Canadian chef Michael Bonacini and his son Oscar, on the spectacular yacht, Emerald Sakara. “Exploring the Western Mediterranean by sea is the perfect way to celebrate food, culture and connection,” says Bonacini.
Ready to Set Sail?
Setting sail for the first time is a milestone. With the right preparation, from choosing the right ship and timing your travel smartly to knowing what to expect once you are on board, your maiden voyage becomes less about navigating uncertainties and more about embracing the adventure.
Your journey into cruising starts with a single step. Use these tips as your compass, and you will be well on your way to a seamless and unforgettable 2026 voyage.
