Totally. Or not at all. You choose your tempo.

Absolutely – cruise dining is surprisingly inclusive and delicious.

Most cruises include accommodations, meals in main dining venues, onboard entertainment, and access to pools and fitness centers. Extras such as specialty dining, shore excursions, alcohol, internet, and spa treatments usually cost extra.

For most international cruises, yes. However, certain “closed-loop” cruises (that start and end in the same U.S. port and visit nearby countries) may allow U.S. citizens to travel with just a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID.

Pack comfortable casual clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, and any medications you need. Most cruises also have at least one “formal night,” so bring a dressier outfit if you’d like to participate. Don’t forget travel documents, chargers, and motion sickness remedies if you’re prone to seasickness.

Cruise lines offer organized excursions for an additional cost, which can be booked in advance or onboard. You can also explore ports on your own, but make sure to return before the ship’s scheduled departure time.

Modern cruise ships are very stable, and many travelers don’t experience motion sickness. If you are prone to it, you may want to bring seasickness bands, patches, or medication for extra comfort.

Yes, but it often comes with an additional charge and may be slower than on land. Many cruise lines now offer different internet packages, so you can choose based on how much you’ll need to be connected.

Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities (service charges) to your onboard account. These tips go toward your cabin steward, dining staff, and other crew. You can usually adjust them at guest services if desired.