Tips for Finding Peace and Quiet on a Cruise

Oct. 25, 2010— -- While there are no hard and fast rules guaranteeing a quiet getaway on a crowded cruise ship, we've compiled some basic tips to help you tune out distractions -- and fellow passengers -- while you cruise. But first, here's what to avoid as you aim for a serene sailing:

Inside cabins. Don't book a windowless, cheerless, 150-square-foot stateroom cabin if your idea of relaxation means spending time alone or as a couple, away from cruising's stereotypically chummy, social scene. Living in cramped quarters only forces you out more into the ship's hustle and bustle.

World cruises or "Grand Voyages." If you've the soul of a hermit crab, these lengthy voyages aren't for you; they attract affable crowds of repeat cruisers and promote social bonding amongst crew and passengers. In other words, you'll be drawn out of your shell, regardless of how much you long to stay in there.

Theme cruises. These full or partial charters essentially take over a ship or a substantial number of cabins. Nearly everything revolves around the theme, and the experience is all about connecting like-minded folks socially in big-group activities.

School holidays. The minute school's out, mainstream cruise ships tend to fill with children -- especially on itineraries of less than seven days. That isn't a problem if you're cruising as a family. Choose Disney Cruise Line for the littlest ones or Royal Caribbean for tweens and teens, as both have ideal setups to whisk your brood off to play, and out of your hair. But if you're booking a grown-up cruise, you'll find a more relaxing atmosphere on posh lines like Regent Seven Seas, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line or river lines like Uniworld. Looking for a more budget-oriented getaway? Stick to the mainstream lines when school is in session.

Now, our top tips for finding peace and quiet when you cruise: