Berlitz is proud to welcome this brand new, full-colour guide, aimed at people contemplating their first cruise and needing independent, expert advice on where to start. Written by the world's leading cruise expert, Douglas Ward, this guide reviews the top 11 cruise lines as well as providing authoritative ratings of more than 350 ships. So whether you are a solo traveller, party-goer, travelling as a family, or require special assistance, this guide will help you find the best ship to suit your needs. It answers the 50 most frequently asked questions and helps you to make important decisions on everything from where and when to go, how long to go for, and what costs to budget for. It also provides an insight into life on board, including entertainment and dining, along with an A-Z of practical tips covering baby-sitting, internet access, religious services, shopping and much more. Further practical information covers how to book your first cruise and what to take with you, along with useful troubleshooting tips. The top 100 shore excursions around the world are highlighted, so whether you want to explore a European city independently or go sightseeing in the Caribbean with fellow passengers, this guide indicates where and how to go. 12 full-colour maps can also be found throughout the guide, covering the world's main cruising areas, helping you to plan your desired route with ease.