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THINK YOU KNOW ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CRUISING?

Although ocean cruising is an all-inclusive vacation with the added benefit of a new port most days, there are still three things you need to know when you're planning your first vacation afloat: what to expect in terms of price, services and play time.

Price

Nailing down the cost is the first thing to consider. When you're cruising, on-board meals and most on-board activities are free of charge. But make sure you know exactly what else is included in your all-inclusive cruise package. In most cases, airfare from your hometown to the port where you will join the ship is included in the overall price, but it doesn't hurt to check this with your travel agent. Figuring out costs in advance allows to you take along a small supply of booty for extras and luxuriate in the freedom of a resort setting with no price tags.

Your cash stash will probably need to cover items like on-board laundry and personal services, from photos and videos of you enjoying cruise life to massages or haircuts. You'll also be paying for your alcoholic beverages, which are often far cheaper than at home.

Getting off the ship at port is free of charge, but signing on for a special land-based tour will likely cost you extra. Generally, the costs are reasonable and some cruise lines allow you to book your tours in advance, allowing you to budget accordingly. Also extra are tips, unless the cruise line is one that has a "tipping-not-required" policy. Ask your travel agent for advice on tipping and special tour costs before you go.

If you're worried about needing to cancel your vacation for medical reasons, many cruise lines will offer full-scale cancellation insurance that lets you back out up until a few days before departure. A doctor's certificate is almost always required to cancel your cruise booking: make sure your travel agent carefully explains the cancellation policy before you buy.

Service

Comfort on board is part of the appeal of cruising and is another feature that requires some explanation for novice cruisers. First-timers should know that almost all cruise ships are one-class only — even if your inside cabin is located on a lower deck, you'll get the same facilities and service as high-budget cruisers on the upper decks. It's only the size and location of your accommodation that will vary according to what you pay.

Cruise ships offer both smoking and non-smoking areas, but more and more dining rooms are being designated as smoke free. Most staterooms have wall safes and 110-volt outlets for your shaver or hair dryer, but confirm these details beforehand with your travel agent.

Cruise ships are also equipped with medical facilities, which can handle everything from mal de mer (sea sickness) to more serious holiday afflictions. Visits to the on-board doctor are fee for service; if you have a travel insurance policy, it may reimburse you for your medical expenses. Make sure you clarify this with your travel agent before you leave.

If you need to work while you're out at sea, a cruise can be the next best thing to being at your office — but check in advance whether your ship is outfitted with fax machines and computer facilities. You can save money by calling from the ports you visit, but in an emergency you can also use the ship-to-shore phone service. While this service can be costly, it allows a vital link for business cruisers with the land-based world.

Play Time

Last but not least, first-timers interested in cutting loose may hold some misconceptions about cruising. It's a myth that you'll be pressured to outfit yourself in your stiffest dress attire at all meals. While dressing up is encouraged for dinner, the policy is usually relaxed for other meals. Every night, you can also enjoy dancing, films and live entertainment. For those who think fitness is fun, a wide range of physical activities and state-of-the-art exercise equipment will let you keep up with your fitness regimen.

Of course, having done your research beforehand, you're also well-prepared for the ultimate in vacation experiences: the sheer luxury of doing nothing at all if you choose.