Some random thoughts… in no particular order.
First, do some reading on the basics of selecting binoculars. Lots of good tutorials out there.
If possible, go to a
large retail store- Cabela’s, Bass Pro, etc. You can try many types of binoculars, in person. Better yet, you can view stuff on the opposite side of the store, for an improvised field test.
Admittedly, looking at a taxidermy mount a hundred yards away inside a store, isn’t exactly “real world,“ but at least it’s better than just reading a catalog description!
There will likely be some that just don’t “fit” right, for you. There will be some for $1K, that you’ll probably like, instantly... but maybe you’ll cool your jets when you see how much they cost.
Give some thought about what you’re going to be viewing, and what a good magnification range might be.
If your cruise ship is a mile off shore, the exact magnification of your binocs may not make make a huge difference when viewing something like “that mountain over there.”
On the other hand, there may be a big (perceived) difference between 7X and 10X, when looking at a critter a couple hundred yards away. How much magnification do you “need?” How much magnification can you hold still? Like a rifle scope, “more is better,” except when you have a second to get eyes on your quarry, and can’t find it in the scope (or binoculars)…
Consider glass quality, vs. objective size, as part of your shopping. Both can be big factors in brightness, clarity, etc. Will your land tour be in the middle of the day, or dawn/dusk?
As with so many things, it’s all about compromise- cost, quality, features, size/weight, etc. You don’t need to get a second mortgage to get quality glass, but don’t go on the trip of a lifetime with $35 binoculars, either…
Finally, what are you going to do with them, upon your return? Hunt, watch birds, take to sporting events, or throw them in a closet? If you buy a reputable brand, there’s potentially a broad resale market.
HAVE A GREAT TRIP!
