Planning your group cruise

Choose a length that suits the occasion and how far people are travelling to the ship.

The cruise fare is only part of the cost. When comparing options, look at the total for everyone, including:

• Gratuities
• Drinks and drinks packages
• Shore excursions
• Flights to and from the port
• Pre-cruise hotels

Friends and family can also choose different cabin categories to suit their own budgets while still sharing the same activities.

Booking as a group makes it easier to keep everyone close, whether that means adjoining cabins for families or cabins on the same deck for a club or company group.

Nadia looks after the group booking, so cabin requests for the whole group go through one person.

A cruise is a natural place to celebrate. Depending on the cruise line, your group can arrange:

• A group dinner, birthday cake or anniversary meal
• Private dining rooms or cocktail receptions
• Group photographs and cabin decorations
• A shared excursion or group activity ashore

Ships vary a lot. Adults-only ships suit a grown-up getaway, lively large ships suit groups who want action, and premium ships offer a more relaxed experience. The group cruises page lists the cruise lines Nadia suggests for each kind of group.

For groups with a mix of mobility levels and interests, look for easy access, shorter walking distances, comfortable excursions, medical facilities on board and itineraries with convenient embarkation ports. River cruise excursions in particular vary in how much walking they involve.

Some themed cruises are official cruise-line programmes, while others are independently organised events that charter cabins or much of a ship. Check that the advertised theme, guest appearances and activities are included in your specific sailing.