Cruising : what plans can be made?

[Tea]

researching cruising, and once you've booked ( lots of research in itself ) it appears that unlike a WDW holiday, there isn't much to research /book /plan. would that be right, in your opinion?
I want to book QM2 transatlantic for a big birthday, but as there are no stops en route, it's not much planning (boo! ) . Or can anyone enlighten me as to what I can plan?
Also looking at a Caribbean cruise following year. ...but again bar selecting good price and good cabin from myriad of choice, doesn't appear to be much more to plan :-(

[Guest]

With Disney Cruise you'd get a pack telling you what on shore activities / tours / special restaurants / onboard activities are available and when you can book them based on the Stateroom category. I would have thought other cruise companies would do similar.

[phoebe23]

We escape on a Caribbean cruise each winter and like to explore the islands independently or use a port shuttle/taxi. Usually research island tourism or trip advisor for best transport options and places to visit. Rarely use ships tours but cabin has nightly newsletter with port advice and maps. Transatlantic - your exploring will be onboard - lots to see and do on every deck!