Going on a cruise is exciting! It doesn't matter if this is your first cruise or your fifth, it's going to be just as fun, and just as successful if you remember some of the cruise basics.

The first port of call on any cruise, is your closet. How much luggage are you taking? What kind of clothes? How much room are you leaving for souvenirs? Do I need to anticipate weather extremes?

Planning is a big part of any successful vacation. Don't let yourself be worried after the fact that there is something forgotten or not done. Start out with lists: mail, animal care, home care, transportation to and from the airport, and who gets to carry those precious tickets.

Read about your destination before you set foot on the boat. Is it going to offer the kind of entertainments or sightseeing that you enjoy? What is there that you especially want to see? Get a grip on your time before the clock starts ticking, so you spend those trips ashore, wisely.

Cruise basics are basically common sense and getting the information you need, then having it at hand, in case you forget. Don't expect to know or remember it all the first time around. And don't expect all things from one trip, to apply to the next. Make one of your lists, questions for the travel agent before you leave. On board, you'll have a steward and other staff that will be more than glad to answer questions.