Mabby McDiarmid, of Davies Cruise Agencies in Kailua, advises letting an agent know if you've cruised before, and if so with which cruise line/ship. What did you like or dislike about past cruises?

"If you've not cruised before, tell the agent what type of hotel you prefer to stay in ... Halekulani versus Holiday Inn. That helps give a picture of your style of vacationing," McDiarmid said. "There may also be additional age-related discounts."

With so many cruise options, these questions will help settle on which cruise is right for you:

1. What type of cruise: rest and relaxation while viewing the scenery, educational, or active including kayaking, hiking, fishing, wildlife spotting?

2. Do you want a pre- or post- land portion to the cruise?

3. What kind of fellow passengers are you hoping to share your experiences with: families, eco-tourists, younger, older, income group?

4. Size matters: 12 passengers, 100 or close to 3,000?

5. Do you want to dress for dinner: coat and tie, country club casual?

6. Are there additional charges on board? Are tips included?

7. How may I learn about different ports of call, and what should I pack?

8. Is there a choice of dining? Are there restricted times or extra costs for specialty restaurants?

9. Are you uncomfortable in small/restricted cabins/spaces? Do you want a balcony or suite?

10. Will there be enrichment lectures, computer classes, dancing, culinary classes, wine tasting, fitness center, wildlife guide or naturalist on board?