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With cruise lines offering different cruises to an ever increasing number of destinations, holiday makers really need to think about what their needs will be onboard.

Choosing the right holiday can be daunting so you may need a little help uncovering the mystery of cruise planning to decide which  is right for you.

A good start is to think about the sort of traveller you are and the type of vacation you want. What do you like to do?

Are you on your own, a couple or in a family group? Does your family like to relax or are you one of those hyperactive clans that need to be busy all the time?

Think about your definition of the perfect cruise experience. Does it involve fine dining, a wild nightclub scene with plenty of socialising, sporty activities, or just the opportunity to lie by the pool and snooze? There are also the practical factors such as budget, the departure port and the length of the trip to take into account in the decision making process. 

Things you should consider when booking an active cruise is to find the right combination of cruise ship and destination for the best adrenaline pumping options.

Make sure your cruise will be made up of people looking for similar experiences as if you are travelling with a sedentary lot, it is likely some of the more energetic activities might get cancelled due to lack of interest.

Similarly check the ports you will be stopping at as some will have few athletic adventures while others will have many to choose from.

Cruises are great with kids but here are some things worth asking your travel agent about when you book.

Is there a kids’ club?

A supervised children's program will enable you to have both alone time and couple time while somebody else exhausts your kids for you.

What other kids' activities exist on board?

Kid's club isn't for all so if your child doesn't like it you need other activities such as mini-golf, soccer, ping pong and a kid friendly pool. You might also ask about activities you can enjoy doing together.

If you are after a little one-on-one time with your partner go for a couple's cruise. This may be a  cruise ship that has little or no children's program.

Pick a cruise line that charges full price for child passengers as this tends to put families off. Go for  a luxury cruise liner as family groups stay away from these.

Make your travel plans outside the school holidays to avoid the crowds and stick to the adult-only areas of the ship such as bars, solarium and spas.

The multi-generational cruise has become the buzz in the industry allowing family groups of all generations to spend some quality time together. 

A multi-generational cruise should give plenty of options for family members from the seven year-old to the 70-year-old.

Consider the following when booking - 

1. Are there enough food choices to serve everyone’s needs.

2. Are there clubs for both tots and teens.

3. Is there family-friendly entertainment on board.

4. See if you can arrange your own private shore excursion and save on cost with a group rate.

5. Some families like special connecting rooms so ask about the availability of this.

6. Ask about customised packages for several generations of a family travelling together.

Over 50s have special needs on cruises. Consider if the cruise company offers healthy dining options, relaxing games, an opportunity for enrichment of the mind as well as beautiful scenery.

Cruises designed with the over 50s in mind will be free from families with small children and should provide a quieter trip than you might otherwise find on traditional cruises, with more activities tailored to a mature set. Check out what activities are offered and if you have dietary restrictions, meals can be made to fit your particular lifestyle.

Also consider the types of onshore activities offered and if they are enriching activities designed with those over 50 in mind.