I'm a former cruise director. Here are 9 big mistakes I see first-time passengers make.

"Not booking the right cruise line for your needs and wants Like hotel chains, all cruise lines are different. Each offers a unique experience, and many cater to different age groups, too. Figure out what is most important to you before booking. Do you want the best, Broadway-level entertainment? A unique itinerary? Incredible food? You might also opt for an adults-only cruise or a sailing designed for families if you're bringing kids. Do your research."

"Flying to the port city on the day your cruise is leaving I've seen many people miss their cruise because they didn't account for possible delays when heading to where their ship is taking off. If you're flying into your departure city, consider arriving there a day or two before your ship sets sail. That way, you'll have plenty of time to board and not have to worry if your flight gets pushed back a few hours."

"Failing to research the port or destinations before boarding the ship Many people embark on a cruise without researching the history of the places they're visiting and sailing through. I think that's a huge mistake because a bit of research can make your trip richer. There will likely be an onboard presentation or two about shore excursions or a guest speaker telling you about the area you're about to visit, but that's only a small piece of the puzzle."

Choose a cruise line and cabin type that align with personal preferences such as entertainment level, itinerary focus, dining quality, and family versus adults-only atmosphere. Avoid flying into the departure city on the day of embarkation; arrive a day or two earlier to allow for delays and smooth boarding. Research ports and destinations in advance to enrich shore visits, identify activities, learn local history, and avoid common tourist mistakes. Expect some onboard briefings about excursions, but supplement them with independent research. Prepare clothing and gear for changing weather and verify cabin features to match expectations.

Read at Business Insider