Do some of your own cruise research by writing to cruise lines for their literature and by surfing on the Internet to cruise web sites, but depend on your local travel agent to make your booking. Almost all cruise bookings (about 95 percent) are through travel agents. An agent’s expertise can be crucial in getting you a good fly-cruise combination.

*Coordinate your evening dining time selection (usually there is an early and a late seating) with your planned shore excursions and general preference. You usually dine at the same table for the duration of the cruise.