One longer cruise or two shorter ones?

[WorkerBee1425]

We have never been on a cruise before but are debating between a two week one or going on two one week ones- any experience or advice?

I would go on one two week one. We did the Greek Islands and the Italian Riviera for our 40th wedding anniversary. It was lovely.

I love a short cruise. My favourite one is Tom.

I’ve done a few of 7-day and thought I wouldn’t enjoy anything longer (would get boring or old), but did a 14-day last year and absolutely loved it. The length helps you relax and truly disconnect. You can get settled in and get to know people. Shorter cruises can be very rushed. It does, however, depend on the ship and the itinerary. The 14-day we took had 10 ports, so we got to see lots of things. A 14-day transatlantic or Hawaii where you are at sea for many days in a row may be much different. Also, you want a ship with enough onboard and enough dining locations to not get bored.

Two separate weeks or two one weeks 'back to back'?

If the latter, a 14 night is better IMO, avoids an awkward changeover day in the middle, potential repeat of entertainment, menus, first day / last day feels etc.

Slightly different clientele on longer cruises v short ones too, the shorter they are, there is more of a party atmosphere, the longer ones attract older guests and tend to be more sedate. Which suits you?

Being as it's your first cruise I'd recommend a week. What if you don't like it?

Depends on the cruise, the destination , how many sea days ect.
I’ve done 14 day around Alaska it was fantastic!
The last 7 day one I did I didn’t enjoy as much, 2 out 7 were sea days and the actual port stops were very short so could have done with a few extra days !

I'd recommend a sea cruise, & a river cruise.
They are very different, you might prefer one type over the over.