This book provides important practical and essential information to help you decide on how to maximize your own cruising experience while making it both fun and unforgettable. My approach is to walk you through the cruise experience from beginning to end (both in a topical manner and also by relating my experiences and observations on my December 2013 cruise). This book is simple, personal and fun while at the same time being relevant, helpful and informative - without drowning you with hundreds of pages describing cargo-ship cruises, river cruises and cruises to destinations such as Bora Bora and Tonga. It covers many areas of cruising, including: Advice from strangers and friends, Why cruising is better, Travel sites and travel agents, Choosing the perfect cruise, Types of cabins, Dining arrangements, Major cruise Companies, What's included in the price of a cruise? Itinerary and excursions, Cruise documents and cancellation policies, Main luggage, carry-on luggage, wallets, Embarkation day, Emergency drill (lifeboat drill), Cabin steward and crew, Daily activities, On board freebies, Food, beverages, entertainment, Dress code, Sea days and port days, Motion sickness, Ports of call, Private island and activities, What if you get sick? Last night of the cruise, Day of debarkation. Eight special sections cover the following: Section 1: Cruise items check-off list, Section 2: Major cruise companies, Section 3: Major cruise lines ships, Section 4: My Dec. 2013 cruise, Section 5: Carnival Fun Times daily publication, Section 6: Room service breakfast menu, Section 7: Complimentary food restaurants, Section 8: Interesting cruise facts.