Choosing a cruise involves more than selecting a ship and itinerary. Luxury travel advisor Anna Gilbert told Southern Living that travelers should avoid assuming every cruise experience is alike.

Among the planning missteps Gilbert highlighted: skipping the help of a travel advisor, overlooking expedition cruising and treating all cruise ships as interchangeable.

Her advice points to the range of sailing styles available to travelers. An expedition cruise may be worth considering for guests whose interests extend beyond a conventional ship vacation, while a travel advisor can be part of the planning process for those weighing their options.

Before booking, travelers may want to compare the type of ship and cruise experience being offered rather than relying on a single assumption about what a cruise vacation will be.