Cruising is incredibly popular because it offers something for everyone. Food enthusiasts can indulge in delicious meals, while thrill-seekers can enjoy heart-pounding adventures.
Whether you’re a veteran cruiser or preparing for your maiden voyage, there are tips and tricks to maximize your enjoyment and relaxation.
Here, we’ve compiled the top twenty-two tips for first-time cruisers to simplify your planning process and ensure a stress-free vacation.
Explore Various Cruise Lines, Ships, and Itineraries
Understanding the type of vacation you desire is crucial for selecting the right cruise line, ship, and itinerary that best suits your needs.
The seven major cruise lines each offer unique experiences. For example, Carnival Cruise Line is famous for its lively, fun-filled ships, while Royal Caribbean is renowned for its cutting-edge, exciting ships.
Even within a single cruise line, experiences can differ from ship to ship. Are you drawn to a massive ship equipped with zip lines, go-karts, water parks, and ropes courses? Or do you prefer a smaller, more intimate vessel?
Consider how you’d like to spend your days in port. If lounging on sun-soaked beaches sounds ideal, the Eastern Caribbean with its pristine waters might be perfect for you. If adventure calls, with zip-lining through jungles, swimming with stingrays, or exploring on an ATV, the Western Caribbean would be a great choice.
Failing to thoroughly research before booking your cruise can lead to disappointment, so take the time to find the perfect fit for your vacation dreams.
Choose the Perfect Stateroom
After choosing the cruise line, ship, and itinerary that align with your vacation goals, the next step is selecting a stateroom. Options range from economical windowless interior cabins to opulent three-bedroom villas with private butler service.
Consider your budget, cabin location preferences, and whether you’d prefer to spend more on accommodations or activities. Also, think about whether you need a larger stateroom to accommodate your family.
Avoid defaulting to the cheapest option, as it might not provide the best experience for you and your companions.
Maximize Your Cruise Experience by Planning Ahead
After selecting the ideal cruise for your group, you’ll be granted access to the cruise line’s online planner. This tool allows you to reserve dining spots, shore excursions, onboard Wi-Fi, and other extras in advance.
Planning ahead ensures a smooth and stress-free vacation once you board. Additionally, booking early can lead to significant savings. Many cruise lines offer discounts ranging from 10% to 35% off onboard prices for specialty dining, drink packages, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi.
Regularly Monitor Your Cruise Price
It’s crucial to keep an eye on your cruise price even after booking, as many cruise lines will honor lower rates if prices drop.
Be aware, though, that most cruise lines won’t adjust prices after the final payment. It’s important to familiarize yourself with your cruise line’s policies. The final payment deadline can differ based on the itinerary, cruise length, and cruise line.
Review Restricted Items
As staterooms typically offer limited outlets, many passengers opt to bring power strips and surge protectors aboard. It’s essential to review the cruise line’s list of prohibited items beforehand to avoid packing items that may be confiscated until the end of the cruise.
Remember, all the rules are made to make travelling safe and comfortable.
ALWAYS be aware of ship's time
Understanding ship’s time is crucial before going ashore.
During your cruise, always synchronize your watch with the ship’s time. This is particularly important when sailing across different time zones, as local time may not align with the ship’s schedule. For instance, if you’re traveling from Florida to Mexico, your phone might automatically switch to local time, which could be an hour behind ship’s time. Avoid the risk of missing important all-board times by sticking to the ship’s schedule.
Arrive in Your Departure City a Day Before Your Cruise
It’s essential to arrive at the port city at least one day before your cruise departure.
Even if your flight gets you to the port with hours to spare before embarkation closes, a flight delay could mean missing the ship entirely—they won’t hold departure for late arrivals.
Pack Cash for Port Visits
While onboard the cruise ship, all expenses can be charged to your onboard account. However, this convenience does not extend to ports of call.
Local vendors and taxi drivers may prefer cash, and some places may not accept credit cards or charge foreign transaction fees. While cruise ships do have ATMs, their fees can be high. It’s wise to bring cash from home for incidental expenses. One workaround for avoiding ATM fees is to visit the casino onboard, where you can add money to your account and then cash out at the cashier.
Pack Essential Toiletries and Medications
Make sure to pack all essential toiletries and medications you’ll need during your cruise. Forgetting something means paying a higher price onboard, and keep in mind that cruise ships have limited options as they do not have full pharmacies or convenience stores.
Avoid the Buffet on Embarkation Day
One of the biggest draws of cruising is the inclusive dining experience. It’s liberating to enjoy unlimited food options without constantly worrying about costs.
However, consider skipping the buffet on embarkation day. You’ll have numerous chances to enjoy it throughout your cruise. Instead, opt for more relaxed lunch venues to avoid crowds and queues. This way, you can start exploring sooner!
Secure Seats for Shows at Least 30 Minutes in Advance
Cruise entertainment is a major highlight, offering everything from dazzling Broadway-style performances to side-splitting comedy shows that cater to every taste.
Seating for these shows operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s wise to arrive early to secure optimal seats.
For quicker service before the show starts, consider getting your drinks from a nearby venue and bringing them with you to your seat, as this can save time compared to ordering from the in-seat service.
Enjoy Multiple Entrees in the Main Dining Room
Dining is a crucial part of every cruise getaway. Even without splurging on specialty restaurants, the complimentary dining rooms offer a delightful experience.
If you’re ever undecided about your order, feel free to indulge in an extra appetizer, main course, or dessert! You can also mix and match several appetizers or opt for multiple desserts to tailor your dining experience.
Keep in mind that certain cruise lines, such as Carnival, may charge an additional $5.00 for a third entree, and there are premium options available for an extra fee, typically featuring prime steaks and lobster.
Pack Your Own Shampoo
Although your stateroom provides complimentary shampoo and soap, it’s advisable to bring your own.
While the onboard amenities are sufficient, they may not meet everyone’s preferences, especially if you prefer specific brands or require more than a basic rinse.
Shampoo is often overlooked when packing for a cruise, but bringing your preferred product ensures you’re comfortable during your trip.
Switch Your Phone to Airplane Mode
Another aspect to consider is international roaming charges on your mobile phone.
Once your cruise ship departs from port, regular cellular coverage ends, and forgetting to switch your phone to airplane mode can lead to unexpectedly high bills.
Cruise ships have their own cellular antennas, but they operate separately from standard cell plans, resulting in costly roaming charges billed by your carrier.
To avoid this, remember to activate airplane mode on your phone as soon as you board. This disables the cellular antenna while allowing you to still access onboard Wi-Fi (often available for an additional fee).
Why Cruise Insurance is Essential?
Nobody likes to contemplate worst-case scenarios for their upcoming trip. However, once you’ve made your deposit, smooth sailing isn’t guaranteed. Unexpected events such as sudden illness or flight cancellations can disrupt your cruise plans. Investing in travel insurance when booking your cruise is crucial. It provides peace of mind knowing you’re covered if unforeseen circumstances derail your travel arrangements.
NEVER FORGET YOUR SUNSCREEN
When packing for your cruise, remember to pack sunscreen to avoid the discomfort of sunburn during your trip. Even on cloudy days, it’s easy to get sunburned while cruising, so it’s essential to bring plenty of sunscreen.
Additionally, since you’ll be visiting different ports and participating in shore excursions, consider bringing a suitable bag or backpack to carry your essentials.
If you drive - find a Pre-Cruise Hotel with Parking Options
Parking fees at cruise ports can be expensive. For instance, during a 5-night Carnival Vista cruise, my cousin and I ended up paying over $100 just for parking!
If you don’t live nearby and need to stay at a hotel the night before your cruise, consider booking one that offers on-site parking. This can save you money, especially if you plan to spend the night close to the port.
Alternatively, there are third-party lots that provide more affordable parking options. It’s worth researching these ahead of time to ensure you find a cost-effective way to keep your vehicle safe while you’re away.
What Should I Wear?
This is easily the most common question I encounter. Start by reviewing your itinerary to determine the number of formal evenings scheduled. Men typically opt for a suit or tuxedo, though slacks paired with a button-down shirt and tie are also acceptable. For women, attire ranges from a smart dress (think “Sunday Best”) to a glamorous gown fit for a prom night.
During formal nights, the dress code in the main dining room is usually business casual, with the exception of these special evenings. Generally, the guidelines are quite relaxed, allowing for a variety of attire—though shorts, sandals, and tank tops are typically not permitted.
Avoiding Motion Sickness
One of the most frequently asked questions about cruising is how to prevent motion sickness. I suggest purchasing Sea Bands, which are elastic wristbands that apply pressure to specific points and can alleviate seasickness. Additionally, packing Bonine or Dramamine is advisable; taking these medications before boarding helps prevent motion sickness, and they can also be used if symptoms occur. Opt for the non-drowsy formula to avoid feeling sleepy during your vacation.
Is Bringing Food or Beverages Allowed on Board?
Policies regarding what food and beverages you can bring onboard vary between cruise ships. Some cruise lines permit passengers to bring a case of water, a six-pack of soda, or two bottles of wine, while others may restrict or prohibit certain items altogether, such as soda. It’s important to check with your cruise line before packing to avoid any issues upon embarkation.
Explore Your Cruise Ship
Embarking on your cruise ship on the first day is an exhilarating part of your voyage, and experienced cruisers recommend embarking on a self-guided tour to familiarize yourself with the ship. This allows you to discover the best spots for sunbathing, dining, and relaxing, as well as explore classes and activities available in Camp at Sea.
Upon boarding, you’ll receive a ship map or can use your Celebrity app for navigation. Begin from the highest deck and systematically explore each level. You’ll quickly become familiar with the ship—finding favorite dining venues, uncovering soothing spa services, and locating prime spots for enjoying the sailaway experience on your first evening.
For families traveling with young children, knowing the most efficient routes around the ship is advantageous, particularly for those inevitable trips back to your stateroom for forgotten items.
Plan Budget for Beverages
Deciding on a beverage package can be a wise choice depending on your preferences. During your cruise, it’s common to enjoy a glass of wine at lunch, a cocktail at sunset, wine with dinner, and perhaps more drinks in the evening.
Beverage packages aren’t limited to alcoholic beverages; some include non-alcoholic drinks, options for children, or focus solely on soda and mineral water.
