So you've made the decision to take a cruise and now you can't decide what to do when you get to your destinations? Excursions in Lyon Just like your decision to take a cruise, doing the research ahead of time will help ease your anxiety and inform your decision. You basically have three choices:

1. Book a shore excursion through the cruise line

Pros:

• Reduces decision-making for first time cruisers.
• Generally very well organized and they stick to a schedule that is synchronized with the ship's itinerary; no danger of ship sailing without you.
• Excursions are included in your cruise fare or final bill so they are easier to budget for in advance.
• Reviews of cruise line shore excursions are plentiful on cruise review websites.
• Best option for exotic or higher risk areas where traveling alone is risky.
• Some premium or luxury cruise lines include shore excursions in their fares.

Cons:

• Usually more expensive than independently booked excursions or solo exploring.
• Groups tend to be larger.
• Popular excursions can fill up quickly and may not be available unless you book well in advance.
• If you don't like your shipmates you may not want to tour with them ashore.

2. Book a shore excursion through an independent operator

Pros:

• Prices are generally cheaper than cruise line shore excursions.
• Groups tend to be smaller.
• When you want more personal attention or in-depth local information reputable independent tour operators are hard to beat.
• They may go to areas that cruise line excursions don't.

Cons:

• Caveat emptor (buyer beware); always do your research when selecting independent tour operators. Cruise review sites offer many suggestions for local tour operators - use them.
• Book ahead of time because popular local tour operators book up just as quickly as popular cruise line shore Excursions in Lyon .
• No guarantee that the ship won't sail if you are late returning.