Nile Cruise FAQ Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
A Nile cruise is one of the easiest ways to explore the archaeological highlights of Upper Egypt, but first-time travelers usually have dozens of practical questions before booking.
Do Nile cruises have WiFi? Do Nile cruises serve alcohol? Where do Nile cruises start? How long is a Nile cruise? Are meals included? Do you need to dress formally? Is Abu Simbel included?
The answers are not always identical for every ship.
That is exactly why this Nile cruise FAQ focuses not only on general answers but also on the details that can change from one cruise to another.
For the classic multi-day Nile experience, most cruises operate between Luxor and Aswan, stopping for or arranging sightseeing at important archaeological sites including Edfu and Kom Ombo. Standard itineraries are commonly three or four nights, although longer options are also available. Nile Cruise Hub
Below you will find everything worth knowing before choosing your cruise.
Quick Nile Cruise FAQ Answers
If you only need the essentials, start here.
Do Nile cruises have WiFi?
Yes, many Nile cruise ships offer WiFi, but the quality, coverage and cost differ between vessels. Connections can become intermittent while sailing through less-connected areas, so travelers who require reliable internet should consider a local Egyptian SIM or eSIM as backup. Nile Cruise Egypt
Do Nile cruises serve alcohol?
Many Nile cruise ships serve alcoholic beverages, usually through an onboard bar or restaurant, but policies differ by vessel. Alcohol is often charged separately unless the cruise operates on an all-inclusive package. Some smaller vessels have different arrangements, so confirm before booking. Nile Cruise Ship
Where do Nile cruises start?
Classic sightseeing Nile cruises normally start in either Luxor or Aswan.
The usual routes are:
Luxor → Edfu → Kom Ombo → Aswan
or
Aswan → Kom Ombo → Edfu → Luxor
Cairo dinner cruises and sightseeing boats are a different product and should not be confused with multi-day Luxor–Aswan Nile cruises. Egypt Nile Cruise Hub
How long is a Nile cruise?
The most common classic itineraries are:
- 4 nights / 5 days from Luxor to Aswan
- 3 nights / 4 days from Aswan to Luxor
- 7-night itineraries on selected ships
- Longer boutique or specialist journeys on selected vessels
Exact schedules depend on the ship. Nile Cruise Hub
What Is a Nile Cruise?
A Nile cruise is a multi-day journey through Upper Egypt that combines hotel-style accommodation with transportation between major historic destinations.
Instead of checking in and out of hotels in several cities, you remain aboard the cruise while the ship travels between destinations.
Most classic itineraries connect:
- Luxor
- Edfu
- Kom Ombo
- Aswan
Sightseeing can include some of Egypt's most important monuments, such as:
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Temple of Hatshepsut
- Edfu Temple
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Philae Temple
This combination of transportation, accommodation and sightseeing is one reason Nile cruises are particularly convenient for first-time visitors to Upper Egypt.
Where Do Nile Cruises Start?
One of the most searched questions in any Nile cruise FAQ is where the journey actually begins.
For the classic archaeological Nile cruise, there are two primary starting points.
Luxor
Luxor is one of the most popular starting points.
A typical route travels south from Luxor toward Aswan.
Depending on the itinerary, the first part of your trip may include:
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Hatshepsut Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
The ship then continues toward Edfu, Kom Ombo and eventually Aswan.
Aswan
The opposite itinerary begins in Aswan and travels north toward Luxor.
Travelers may visit attractions such as:
- Philae Temple
- Aswan High Dam
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Edfu Temple
before arriving in Luxor.
Both directions cover many of the same major sites. The best direction usually depends more on your flights, hotel itinerary and whether you plan to visit Abu Simbel than on sightseeing quality. Egypt Nile Cruise Hub
Do Nile Cruises Start in Cairo?
Usually, not the classic Luxor–Aswan cruises.
This distinction is important.
You will find boats advertised online as "Cairo Nile cruises," but many are short sightseeing or dinner experiences rather than the multi-night archaeological journey travelers usually mean when searching for a Nile cruise.
For the traditional multi-day cruise visiting the ancient sites of Upper Egypt, Luxor and Aswan are the principal embarkation points. Nile Cruise Egypt
There are specialist or extended river itineraries that differ from the standard route, but they should be evaluated separately rather than assumed to be the normal Nile cruise experience.
Is It Better to Start in Luxor or Aswan?
Neither direction is universally better.
Choose Luxor to Aswan if:
- Your Egypt itinerary reaches Luxor first
- You want to begin with the major Luxor monuments
- You want to finish near Aswan and potentially add Abu Simbel
Choose Aswan to Luxor if:
- You arrive in southern Egypt first
- You visit Abu Simbel before your cruise
- Your onward travel is easier from Luxor
- The sailing schedule works better with your flights
The key is to build your flights and hotels around the confirmed cruise departure date rather than assuming every vessel sails every day.
Ships normally operate according to scheduled departures, and individual vessels may have different embarkation days. Nile Cruise Egypt
How Long Is a Nile Cruise?
The answer depends on the direction, ship and type of journey.
3 Nights 4 Days
A common shorter route travels from Aswan toward Luxor.
This can work well if your Egypt itinerary is tight and you primarily want to visit the major archaeological attractions.
4 Nights 5 Days
This is one of the classic Luxor-to-Aswan formats.
An extra night provides more sailing time while still fitting comfortably inside a typical Egypt holiday.
7 Nights
Some vessels operate longer round-trip or extended itineraries.
These are better suited to travelers who want more time aboard and a less compressed holiday.
Standard Nile cruises are commonly offered as three- or four-night journeys, while seven-night options are also available on some vessels. Egypt Nile Cruise Hub
Is 3 Nights Enough for a Nile Cruise?
Yes, if your priority is seeing the main attractions.
A three-night itinerary can cover the core route efficiently.
However, expect the schedule to feel more structured.
You may have:
- Early morning departures
- Multiple sightseeing visits in one day
- Less free time onboard
- Shorter periods simply enjoying the Nile
If the cruise itself is an important part of your holiday rather than simply transportation between archaeological sites, consider a longer itinerary.
Is 4 Nights Enough for a Nile Cruise?
For many first-time visitors, four nights is an excellent balance.
It provides enough time to experience:
- Luxor
- Edfu
- Kom Ombo
- Aswan
- Time sailing on the Nile
without consuming too much of a broader Egypt itinerary.
That makes the 5-day 4-night Nile cruise particularly practical for travelers combining Cairo, Luxor, Aswan and perhaps the Red Sea in one holiday.
Do Nile Cruises Have WiFi?
Yes, many modern Nile cruise ships have WiFi.
But there is an important detail.
Having WiFi does not automatically mean having fast, uninterrupted internet throughout the entire journey.
Different ships offer different arrangements.
WiFi may be:
- Free throughout the ship
- Free only in common areas
- Available only near reception
- Charged separately
- Included only in certain packages
- Limited by mobile network coverage
For example, some operators advertise complimentary WiFi throughout the vessel, while others provide it only in common areas or reception. Operators also warn that connectivity can become intermittent on certain stretches of the Nile. Luna Nile Cruise
Is Nile Cruise WiFi Good Enough for Work?
Do not assume it will be.
If you need internet for:
- Video calls
- Remote work
- Uploading large files
- Streaming
- Important meetings
bring a backup connection.
A local SIM card or eSIM with mobile data can be useful, although mobile coverage can also vary during the journey.
For normal activities such as:
- Social media
- Light browsing
the onboard connection may be sufficient when a signal is available.
Do Nile Cruises Serve Alcohol?
Many do.
Alcohol is available aboard a number of Nile cruise vessels, but you should never assume the same policy applies to every ship.
Depending on your cruise, you may find:
- Beer
- Egyptian wine
- Imported wine
- Spirits
- Cocktails
- Hotel-style lounge bars
Some premium packages include selected alcoholic beverages, while other vessels exclude alcoholic drinks entirely from the cruise price even though they can be purchased onboard. Smaller vessels may operate differently again. Nile Cruise Ship
Is Alcohol Included in the Nile Cruise Price?
Usually, you should not assume it is included.
Most standard packages are sold on a full-board basis covering meals rather than unrestricted alcoholic drinks.
Before booking, check:
Meal plan: Full board or all inclusive?
Soft drinks: Included or charged separately?
Alcohol: Included, available for purchase or unavailable?
Water: Complimentary or charged?
The phrase "full board" typically refers to meals and does not automatically mean beverages are included.
What Is Included in a Nile Cruise?
There is no single universal inclusion list.
A typical package may include:
- Cabin accommodation
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Onboard facilities
Depending on the package rather than simply the ship, it may also include:
- Egyptologist guide
- Sightseeing excursions
- Entrance tickets
- Airport or hotel transfers
- Entertainment
- Taxes and service charges
This is an area where travelers should compare packages carefully. Cruise accommodation and meals may be included while excursions, entry tickets, beverages, transfers, WiFi and gratuities vary significantly between offers. Nile Cruise Hub
What Is Usually Not Included?
Potential extras include:
- International flights
- Domestic flights
- Egyptian visa
- Alcoholic drinks
- Some soft drinks
- Laundry
- Spa treatments
- Tips
- Personal expenses
- Optional excursions
- Abu Simbel
- Hot-air balloon rides
- Special tomb tickets
- Premium WiFi
Never compare two Nile cruises using the headline price alone.
A cheaper package with sightseeing and tickets excluded may ultimately cost more than a slightly more expensive package with those services included.
Are Meals Included on Nile Cruises?
Most traditional multi-day Nile cruises are offered on a full-board basis.
That normally means:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Meal style differs between ships.
You may encounter:
- Buffet breakfast
- Buffet lunch
- Buffet dinner
- Set-menu dinner
- À la carte dining
Some higher-category boats may also offer afternoon tea, snacks or additional refreshments. Nile Cruise Egypt
What Kind of Food Is Served?
Most cruise ships serve a combination of Egyptian and international food.
Typical options might include:
- Salads
- Rice
- Vegetables
- Chicken
- Beef
- Fish
- Pasta
- Soups
- Egyptian dishes
- Bread
- Desserts
- Fresh fruit
Higher-end vessels generally offer broader dining choices.
Can Nile Cruises Handle Vegetarian or Special Diets?
Many can.
Cruise operators commonly accommodate dietary requests such as:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
but advance notification is important. Some operators explicitly request that dietary needs be communicated before departure. Luna Nile Cruise
If you have a severe allergy rather than simply a preference, provide precise information before booking and reconfirm it when boarding.
What Are Nile Cruise Cabins Like?
A standard Nile cruise cabin is closer to a compact hotel room than a large ocean-cruise cabin.
Depending on ship category, your cabin may contain:
- Bed or twin beds
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- Wardrobe
- Television
- Safe
- Mini fridge
- Large window
- Balcony or French balcony on selected ships
Cabin design varies dramatically between standard, deluxe and luxury cruises.
Do All Nile Cruise Cabins Have Nile Views?
Most passenger cabins on traditional Nile vessels are designed with exterior views, but the size and type of window varies.
You may find:
- Fixed panoramic windows
- Opening windows
- French balconies
- Full balconies
Never assume that the word "balcony" means a walk-out balcony.
Ask for cabin photos and the precise cabin category before booking.
Does Cabin Deck Matter?
Yes.
The deck can affect:
- View
- Noise
- Engine vibration
- Accessibility
- Price
Cabins located near engines or machinery can potentially experience more vibration or noise.
If you are a light sleeper, ask for the cabin location before confirming your reservation.
Do Nile Cruises Have Swimming Pools?
Many medium and larger cruise ships have a small outdoor pool or plunge pool on the sun deck.
But this is not comparable to the large pools found on ocean cruise ships.
The sun deck is typically designed for:
- Relaxing
- Watching the scenery
- Drinks
- Sunbathing
- Enjoying sailing time
Facilities vary significantly by vessel.
Do Nile Cruises Have Entertainment?
Often, yes.
Depending on the ship and itinerary, entertainment can include:
- Nubian music
- Traditional performances
- Galabeya party
- Live music
- Belly dancing
- Tanoura performances
- Themed dinners
Entertainment varies considerably by boat and is not necessarily offered every night. Nile Cruise Egypt
What Is a Galabeya Party?
A galabeya party is a themed evening where passengers can wear traditional-style Egyptian clothing.
Participation is optional.
You do not normally need to bring special clothing from home because suitable garments can often be purchased locally or near tourist areas.
What Time Do Nile Cruise Excursions Start?
Prepare for some early mornings.
Upper Egypt sightseeing is often scheduled early because temperatures are more comfortable and archaeological sites can become busier later in the day.
Exact departure times depend on:
- Season
- Ship schedule
- Temple opening times
- Sailing schedule
- Excursion program
Some tours can begin quite early, especially during hot months.
Which Temples Do Nile Cruises Visit?
A classic cruise can include or offer excursions to the following sites.
Luxor
- Karnak Temple
- Luxor Temple
- Valley of the Kings
- Hatshepsut Temple
- Colossi of Memnon
Edfu
- Temple of Horus
Kom Ombo
- Kom Ombo Temple
- Crocodile Museum
Aswan
- Philae Temple
- High Dam
Actual sightseeing inclusions depend on your package.
Do Nile Cruises Go to Abu Simbel?
The classic Luxor–Aswan cruise vessel itself generally does not sail to Abu Simbel.
Abu Simbel lies south of Aswan near Lake Nasser.
Instead, travelers normally visit Abu Simbel separately from Aswan.
The excursion may be offered:
- By road
- By domestic flight
- As an optional excursion
- Included inside a larger Egypt package
Some cruise operators explicitly list Abu Simbel as an optional add-on rather than part of the standard sailing. Nile Cruise Ship
So if seeing Abu Simbel is important to you, check the itinerary before booking.
Can You Visit Abu Simbel During a Nile Cruise?
Yes.
Many travelers combine the two.
A common trip structure is:
Luxor → Nile Cruise → Aswan → Abu Simbel
or:
Abu Simbel → Aswan → Nile Cruise → Luxor
The important factor is having enough time between the Abu Simbel excursion and your cruise embarkation or onward flight.
What Is the Best Time for a Nile Cruise?
For most travelers, October through April offers more comfortable sightseeing weather in Upper Egypt.
December and January are especially popular because temperatures are cooler, but this also means stronger demand around Christmas and New Year.
Summer travel is possible, but temperatures in Upper Egypt can become very high, making early-morning sightseeing more important. Nile Cruise Egypt
Can You Take a Nile Cruise in Summer?
Yes.
Cruises can operate during the warmer months.
Advantages can include:
- Fewer visitors
- Potentially better availability
- Possible lower rates
The drawback is heat.
If you travel during summer:
- Carry water
- Wear a hat
- Use sunscreen
- Choose lightweight clothing
- Expect early sightseeing
- Rest during the hottest hours
What Should You Wear on a Nile Cruise?
During daytime sightseeing, prioritize comfort.
Bring:
- Breathable clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sunscreen
- Light layer for cooler evenings
At temples, modest clothing is a practical choice.
For dinner onboard, most ships are relatively relaxed.
You generally do not need formal evening gowns or suits.
Some vessels recommend smart-casual clothing in the evening. Luna Nile Cruise
Do I Need Formal Clothes for Dinner?
Usually not.
Think smart casual rather than formal cruise wear.
A clean shirt, blouse, trousers, skirt or casual dress will generally be sufficient on many boats.
Ultra-luxury vessels may have a more refined atmosphere, so check that ship's dress guidance before traveling.
Is a Nile Cruise Safe?
For most visitors, a professionally operated Nile cruise is a structured way to travel between major tourist destinations in Upper Egypt.
However, safety conditions and travel advice can change.
Before departure:
- Check official travel advice issued for your nationality
- Purchase suitable travel insurance
- Use licensed operators
- Protect valuables
- Follow crew and guide instructions
- Keep copies of important documents
Also distinguish general destination safety from safety onboard a particular vessel.
Will I Get Seasick on a Nile Cruise?
Many people who experience motion sickness on ocean cruises find river cruising much easier because the Nile does not have ocean-style waves.
However, individual sensitivity varies.
One Nile sailing operator describes conditions as generally calm because this is river sailing rather than open sea travel. Kemetale
If you are highly susceptible to motion sickness, bring your normal medication after checking that it is appropriate for you.
Can You Swim in the Nile?
Swimming directly in the Nile is generally not something travelers should assume is safe or recommended.
Water conditions differ and currents can be unpredictable.
At least one luxury cruise operator explicitly advises guests against swimming directly in the Nile. Rafaheya Nile Luxury Cruise
Use the onboard swimming pool where available instead.
Is a Nile Cruise Good for Families?
It can be excellent for families because it reduces the number of hotel changes and long road transfers.
Children can experience:
- Temples
- Boats
- Ancient history
- Swimming pools on selected ships
- Changing landscapes
However, check:
- Minimum age policy
- Family cabins
- Connecting rooms
- Extra beds
- Child pricing
- Pool safety
- Excursion length
Policies differ by vessel.
Is a Nile Cruise Good for Solo Travellers?
Yes.
A cruise can work particularly well for solo travellers because accommodation, meals and sightseeing are organized while common areas and excursions provide opportunities to meet other passengers.
The main issue is pricing.
Solo travelers may have to pay a single supplement because cabins are often priced based on double occupancy.
Ask for the final single-occupancy rate rather than assuming the advertised per-person price applies.
Is a Nile Cruise Good for Couples and Honeymooners?
Yes.
A Nile cruise naturally combines sightseeing with slower periods of sailing, making it suitable for couples who want history without changing hotels every night.
For a more romantic experience, consider:
- Luxury cruise
- Suite
- Balcony cabin
- Dahabiya
- Private guide
- Private transfers
What Is a Dahabiya Nile Cruise?
A dahabiya is a smaller sailing vessel offering a more intimate experience than a conventional large cruise ship.
Typical advantages include:
- Fewer passengers
- Quieter atmosphere
- Slower pace
- More personalized service
- Smaller docking locations on some itineraries
They can be ideal for travelers prioritizing atmosphere over resort-style facilities.
Nile Cruise or Dahabiya Which Is Better?
Choose a traditional Nile cruise if you want:
- More onboard facilities
- Swimming pool
- Larger restaurant
- More departure options
- Wider price range
Choose a dahabiya if you want:
- Smaller groups
- Quiet atmosphere
- Slow travel
- Boutique experience
- Greater intimacy
Neither is automatically better.
They serve different travel styles.
How Much Does a Nile Cruise Cost?
There is no useful single price because rates vary enormously.
Price depends on:
- Season
- Ship category
- Cabin type
- Number of nights
- Single or double occupancy
- Included excursions
- Private or shared guiding
- Entrance tickets
- Transfers
- Meal plan
- Holiday periods
Instead of asking only "How much is the cruise?", ask:
What is the final price and exactly what is included?
That question prevents most pricing surprises.
Are Entrance Fees Included?
Sometimes.
Some packages include guided excursions but charge entrance tickets separately.
Others combine:
- Transportation
- Guide
- Entrance tickets
inside one package.
Always request an itemized inclusion list.
Are Tips Included?
Often not.
Tipping is common within Egypt's tourism sector and may apply to:
- Cruise crew
- Egyptologist
- Drivers
- Porters
Policies and suggested amounts vary significantly between operators.
Check whether gratuities have already been added to your package before tipping again.
What Currency Is Used on Nile Cruises?
Egyptian pounds are useful for local purchases and tipping.
Depending on the cruise, onboard accounts may accept:
- Egyptian pounds
- US dollars
- Euros
- Visa
- Mastercard
Do not assume every small vendor or dockside shop accepts cards.
Carry some local currency for smaller purchases.
Are Credit Cards Accepted on Nile Cruises?
Larger and higher-category vessels are more likely to accept major cards.
Smaller boats may rely more heavily on cash.
Even if the ship accepts cards, carrying some cash remains useful because:
- Terminals can fail
- Internet connections can be intermittent
- Tips are often easier in cash
- Small shops may not take cards
Do I Need an Egypt Visa for a Nile Cruise?
The cruise itself does not replace Egypt's entry requirements.
Visa requirements depend on nationality, passport and current Egyptian entry rules.
Check the current official requirements applicable to your passport before travel rather than relying solely on a travel blog or cruise company.
How Do I Reach the Cruise from Luxor Airport?
The easiest arrangement is usually a pre-booked transfer.
Your driver can meet you at:
- Luxor International Airport
- Train station
- Hotel
and take you to the vessel's current docking location.
This is useful because ships can be moored alongside other cruise vessels, and the precise berth should be confirmed close to departure.
How Do I Reach the Cruise in Aswan?
The same principle applies.
Arrange transfer from:
- Aswan Airport
- Railway station
- Hotel
directly to the confirmed vessel.
Some packages include this transfer, while others charge separately.
What Time Is Nile Cruise Check-In?
Exact timings vary by vessel, but many cruises board around late morning or early afternoon before lunch.
Do not rely on a generic check-in time.
Confirm:
- Embarkation date
- Boarding location
- Latest boarding time
- First excursion time
- Sailing time
before arranging your flight or train.
Some vessels may depart on the first day, meaning a late arrival could disrupt your itinerary. Nile Cruise Egypt
What Happens on the Final Day?
You normally have breakfast and check out of your cabin.
Depending on your package, you may then:
- Complete final sightseeing
- Transfer to your hotel
- Travel to the airport
- Continue to Cairo
- Add Abu Simbel
- Continue to the Red Sea
Check-out from the cabin does not necessarily mean your entire sightseeing program has finished.
Should I Book a Nile Cruise Before Arriving in Egypt?
Usually yes, particularly if:
- You have fixed travel dates
- You travel between October and April
- You travel around Christmas or New Year
- You want a specific luxury ship
- You need adjoining rooms
- You require a suite
- You are booking a Dahabiya
Departure schedules vary between vessels, so reserving the cruise before finalizing domestic flights can simplify the rest of your itinerary. Nile Cruise Hub
What Should I Ask Before Booking a Nile Cruise?
This may be the most useful part of this entire Nile cruise FAQ.
Before paying, ask the operator to confirm these details in writing:
- Exact ship name
- Cruise category
- Cabin category
- Cabin deck
- Cruise duration
- Embarkation city
- Disembarkation city
- Exact sailing date
- Meals included
- Drinks included
- WiFi policy
- Alcohol availability
- Guided tours included
- Entrance tickets included
- Transfers included
- Abu Simbel included or optional
- Single supplement
- Child policy
- Cancellation conditions
- Final total price
This is far more useful than selecting a cruise based only on its star rating.
Biggest Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Nile Cruise
Choosing only by star rating
A "5-star Nile cruise" description does not tell you enough about:
- Cabin age
- Renovation
- Food
- Guide quality
- Deck
- Included tours
Compare the actual vessel and package.
Assuming every cruise includes sightseeing
Some rates cover accommodation and meals while tours are sold separately.
Assuming Abu Simbel is part of the sailing route
It normally requires a separate trip from Aswan.
Booking flights before checking sailing dates
Cruise departure days are scheduled.
Your preferred ship may not depart on the day you expect.
Expecting perfect WiFi
Even ships advertising WiFi can experience intermittent connectivity while sailing.
Looking only at the lowest price
Check exclusions first.
A cheap cruise can quickly become expensive when you separately add:
- Guides
- Entrance fees
- Transfers
- Drinks
- Excursions
Nile Cruise FAQ Final Checklist
Before you book, make sure you know:
- Where does my Nile cruise start? Usually Luxor or Aswan.
- How long is my cruise? Common options are 3, 4 or 7 nights.
- Do Nile cruises have WiFi? Many do, but connection quality and pricing vary.
- Do Nile cruises serve alcohol? Many do, but availability and inclusion depend on the vessel.
- Are meals included? Full board is common.
- Are excursions included? It depends on the package.
- Is Abu Simbel included? Often optional rather than part of the standard cruise.
- Are entrance tickets included? Not always.
- Do I need formal clothes? Usually not; smart casual is generally sufficient.
- Should I book early? Yes if your dates or preferred ship are fixed.
Final Thoughts
A Nile cruise is straightforward once you understand one important point: there is no single set of inclusions or onboard facilities shared by every vessel.
The classic route is normally between Luxor and Aswan, and three- and four-night itineraries are among the most common. Nile Cruise Hub
Most importantly, don't assume that terms such as "five-star," "full board" or "WiFi available" tell you the whole story.
Before booking, confirm the exact vessel, cabin, route, excursions, tickets, transfers, drinks, WiFi policy and final price.
Do that, and the Nile cruise becomes much easier to compare—and far less likely to surprise you after boarding.