Tell me what you have in mind
Share the basics: who is traveling, when you can go, what you hope to spend, and anything that could shape the trip.
Ocean and river cruise planning
Great trips begin with a plan that fits you.
Tell me what you have in mind, and I’ll help you find a cruise that feels right for you and the people traveling with you.
No planning fee. You pay the travel supplier directly.
Personal guidanceYou work directly with Rick.
Clear recommendationsA few good options, with the tradeoffs explained.
Low-pressure planningGood decisions matter more than a quick sale.
A simpler process
You do not need to know exactly what you want.
I narrow the field
I look for options that fit and explain why they do, including the important tradeoffs, timing, and costs.
We plan it through
Once you choose, I help with the reservation details and the checkpoints that matter before you travel.
What I can help with
Cruise-focused, with room for the rest of the trip.
Ocean and river cruises are the heart of First Port. I can also help with resorts, hotels, tours, all-inclusive travel, and the pieces around your cruise when they are part of the same plan.
- Choosing the right cruise line and ship
- Comparing cabins, itineraries, and timing
- Family and multigenerational travel
- Mobility and accessibility considerations
- Pre-cruise hotels, transfers, and related travel
Your first sailing
Planning your first cruise?
Start with a few practical things to know about ships, cabins, costs, and getting ready.
Start planning
What kind of trip do you have in mind?
Choose the request that fits best. I’ll read it myself and follow up with you.
Cruise vacation
Ocean or river cruises, from a first sailing to the next one on your list.
Start a cruise requestGeneral vacation
Resorts, hotels, tours, and other trips you’d like help planning.
Start a vacation requestGroup travel
Reunions, celebrations, or another trip you’re organizing for several travelers.
Start a group requestPlanning forms open in a new tab through Atlas Coast Travel Group, my host agency.
About Rick
Planning help from someone who listens first.
After more than 20 years leading people and building systems in ministry, nonprofit work, and I.T., I started a new chapter with First Port Cruise Co.
I love getting to know what a trip means to someone, then helping them pull the details together that feel right for them and the people they’re bringing along.
Based in Royston, northeast Georgia, I help travelers plan ocean and river cruises with personal guidance by phone and email. I listen, explain the choices, and stay involved as the details come together.
Good to know
A few things you might be wondering.
Does it cost more to use First Port?
First Port currently charges no planning or advisory fee. I’m paid a commission by travel suppliers after you travel. Your payments go directly to the supplier, and I’ll guide you through the payment process.
Do you only plan cruises?
Cruises are my main focus, including ocean and river cruises. I also help with resorts, hotels, tours, and all-inclusive vacations. Flights can be included when they’re part of a cruise or all-inclusive trip.
What about travel protection?
Travel protection is strongly recommended. During the planning process, I can provide information and make sure your decision is documented before payment.
What information do you need to get started?
The planning request asks for basic contact and trip-preference information. Please do not submit payment-card details, passport numbers, or passport images through the inquiry form.
Ready when you are
Let’s find the trip that fits.
Send me the basics. I read every request myself and will follow up within one business day.