booking cruises \ A few tips

NEW YORK (AP) — TravelSmart Newsletter has a two-part series with tips for booking and taking cruises in its May 15 and June 15 issues. Both issues are available free for the asking by calling (800) 327-3633, or you can visit www.TravelSmartNewsletter.com. Editor Nancy Dunnan offers advice for finding the right cruise:

Look for a cruise with like-minded people. Retirees tend to take longer cruises of nine or more nights. Families sail during holidays and summer, often on large ships with kids’ programs. College students like spring-break cruises; scholarly types pick cruises with cultural themes or on-board experts giving lectures. Professional couples may gravitate to quick getaways of five days or less. Well-traveled types like exotic destinations, luxury yachts, four- and five-star ships and river cruises with gourmet dining. Solo travelers often opt for singles-designated sailings or ships offering to find a cabin mate.

Ship size matters. Megaships, with 3,000 or more passengers, have nonstop activities; midsize (500-1,000 people) are more personal, like an inn. Small ships (fewer than 500) are great for those who like to read, write and study nature; they easily navigate shallow waters, getting you up close to wildlife.

If you’re buying insurance, ask what it covers. Some cruise policies only give you credit toward a future sailing if you cancel.

Book the right cabin. Inside cabins are cheaper, but will you be unhappy without a view? If you get seasick, select a cabin in the middle of the ship. Avoid cabins near restaurants, elevators, galleys, laundry rooms, pools, ice cube machines, nightclubs and casinos.

Ask about tipping. On some cruises, a daily gratuity fee is added to your onboard account, and a 15 percent gratuity is often automatically added to bar, beverage, wine and deck chair tabs.