Hey there travel enthusiasts, and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 things to know before your first cruise. For first-time cruisers, the idea of embarking on a voyage across the open seas can be both exciting and overwhelming with the promise of adventure, luxury accommodations and endless entertainment options.
This however can make it difficult to focus on the practical aspects of cruising where overlooking key details could make or break your experience.
From choosing the right cruise line and itinerary to packing the essentials and preparing for shore excursions, there is a lot to think about. So, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, take a deep breath, relax and get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime.
- Conduct some research
- Be an early bird
- Pack smart
- Be familiar with the gratuity system
- Make use of the inclusive amenities and activities
- Take advantage of shore excursions
- Stay healthy
- Be mindful of your spending
- Don’t forget your electronic devices and chargers
- Enjoy yourself
Things to Know Before Your First Cruise
Ok, so when it comes to things to know about a cruise, let’s check out my 10 tips below.
1. Conduct some research
When it comes to planning your first cruise, conducting research about the cruise line and ship can give you invaluable information about what to expect such as the ship’s amenities and the itinerary.
Firstly, it is important to research the reputation of the cruise line. Different cruise lines have their own unique style and target demographics so it is important to find one that aligns with your travel preferences. Reading online reviews from past passengers can give you insight into the quality of service, onboard activities, dining options and overall experience.
Additionally, researching the ship itself can help you determine if it is a good fit for your needs and preferences. Some cruise ships are designed to cater to families with children, whilst others are geared towards adults-only. Look for information about the ship’s layout such as cabin types and sizes as well as entertainment options to ensure they match your needs.
And finally here, knowing the ports of call and the excursions that the cruise line offers will give you a better idea of what to expect and plan for during your trip. You can also research independent tour operators and attractions in the ports of call as well, allowing you to choose from a wider variety of options and potentially save money.
Check out my post on: How to find the best travel insurance for a cruise
2. Be an early bird
In order to fill their cabins as quickly as possible, cruise line companies are renowned for offering early bird specials on fares and other costs. Hence, booking early is a great way to save money on your tickets as well as the chance to secure you better cabin.
Some cruise lines even offer other early booking incentives such as onboard credits or discounts on shore excursions. Moreover, registering early allows you to have more time to plan and prepare for your cruise such as choosing and reserving shore excursions or booking spa treatments etc.
Lastly, if you are traveling from out of town, consider arriving at your port of embarkation a day or two early to avoid potential travel delays or missed connections. This also gives you some extra time to explore the surrounding area before your cruise begins.
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3. Pack smart
I mean if we address the elephant in the room here, packing smartly is a necessity regardless of the type of travel you are undertaking. In terms of packing for a cruise, consider the following:
- Check the weather forecast for your port of embarkation and any ports of call along your itinerary as well as the expected temperature and humidity levels. This information will help you pack the appropriate clothing and avoid overpacking unnecessary items.
- Consider the dress code for your cruise. Many cruises have formal nights or themed events that may require specific attire. Make sure to determine the dress code ahead of time and pack accordingly to avoid being underdressed or over-dressed for the occasion.
When it comes to packing your luggage, make a list of essentials and prioritize items that you cannot live without such as medications or important documents. Pack versatile items that can be worn multiple times and mixed and matched and avoid overpacking unnecessary items that may take up space in your luggage. Consider using packing cubes or compression bags to maximize your luggage space and keep your items organized.
Finally, I recommend packing a carry-on bag with essentials that you may need immediately upon boarding the ship such as a change of clothes, toiletries and any important documents or medications. This will ensure that you have access to these items even if your luggage is delayed or misplaced.
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4. Be familiar with the gratuity system
Gratuity on a cruise refers to the amount of money that is paid to the service staff such as room stewards, dining room waiters and other service personnel for their services during the cruise. Some cruise lines have a set gratuity amount per day, per guest, that is automatically charged to your onboard account. This amount typically covers gratuities for your stateroom attendant, dining room staff and other service staff onboard
It is important to note that the automatic gratuity charge is not mandatory and you can adjust the amount if you feel that the service you received was exceptional or below average. Most cruise lines have a guest services desk where you can adjust your gratuity amount.
Some cruise lines also offer pre-paid gratuities, which allow you to pay the gratuity amount upfront before your cruise begins. This can help you plan your budget and avoid any surprises at the end of your cruise as well.
5. Make use of the inclusive amenities and activities
Most cruise lines offer a wide range of inclusive amenities and activities that are available to all guests at no extra cost. These can include swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, sports courts, live entertainment and more. Family based cruise lines also offer kids’ clubs and teen centers with age-appropriate activities and programs too.
To make the most of these inclusive amenities and activities, it’s important to familiarize yourself with what is available and you can typically find this information on the cruise line’s website or in the ship’s daily newsletter. Make sure to plan out your days and take advantage of the activities and amenities that interest you the most.
In addition to the inclusive amenities and activities, some cruise lines may also offer special events or promotions that are only available for a limited time. These can include things such as free wine tastings, cooking demonstrations or fitness classes. Make sure to check the ship’s daily newsletter or speak with a crew member to stay up-to-date on any special promotions or events.
6. Take advantage of shore excursions
Shore excursions are organized tours or activities that are offered by the either the cruise line or third-party vendors and can range from sightseeing tours, adventurous activities, cultural experiences or even just a day at the beach. They can generally be pre-booked online or onboard the ship (which is generally the safest option but often more expensive), or you can also choose to book them independently with a local tour operator.
One of the main advantages of booking a shore excursion through the cruise line is that they have been carefully selected and vetted, so you can be sure that you’re getting a quality experience. In addition, the cruise line also guarantees that the excursion will get you back to the ship in time before it sails to the next port.
Another advantage of a shore excursion is that it saves you time and money as it will typically include transportation, admission fees and sometimes even meals, so you don’t have to worry about arranging these things on your own.
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7. Stay healthy
One of the main issues with taking a cruise is the prevalence of disease (which can spread through a ship like wildfire) and in all honesty, these ships are not always cleaned as well as they could be. Hence it is critical to maintain good hygiene by washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. You can also carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer with you for times when soap and water are not available.
In addition to maintaining good hygiene, it’s also crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches and other health issues so make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. You can also take advantage of the water stations on the ship or bring a refillable water bottle with you.
Next, whilst most cruise ships offer a variety of delicious dining options, it’s important to be mindful of food safety. Avoid eating undercooked or raw meats and seafood and make sure to choose foods that are cooked thoroughly. Additionally, be cautious when consuming alcohol, as excessive drinking can lead to dehydration and other health issues.
Finally, it’s a good idea to pack some basic medications such as pain relievers, antacids and motion sickness pills in case you need them during the trip. You should also be familiar with the ship’s medical facilities and services, just in case you need medical attention while onboard.
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8. Be mindful of your spending
Even though many cruises can be ‘all inclusive’ when it comes to meals and activities etc., I recommend setting a budget before you even step foot on the ship. By doing so, you determine how much money you can afford to spend on extras such as excursions, souvenirs, and other activities. And if drinks aren’t included in your package, see if there is the option to purchase a drinks card or similar as well.
As we have already covered above, one way to save money while on a cruise is to take advantage of the inclusive amenities and activities offered onboard. Most cruise ships have various free activities such as live shows, movies and games that you can enjoy without spending any extra money.
Another way to save money is to be cautious when it comes to purchasing extras such as souvenirs and beverages. While it may be tempting to buy souvenirs at every port, these expenses can quickly add up. Instead, try to limit your purchases to items that are unique or meaningful to you.
It’s also important to be aware of the different pricing structures on the ship. For example, some restaurants and bars may charge extra fees or require reservations, so make sure to read the fine print and ask questions before making a purchase.
9. Don’t forget your electronic devices and chargers
When it comes to packing for a cruise, one tip you should not overlook is gathering all of your electronic devices. This includes your phone, tablet, e-reader, camera and any other devices you plan to bring with you on your trip. You could also do well to consider a small portable fan for your cabin as well.
And of course it is also important to bring the appropriate chargers for each device to ensure that they stay charged throughout your trip. Many cruise ships have limited outlets, so it’s a good idea to bring a power strip or multi-USB charger to avoid any conflicts.
Additionally, if you plan to use your phone while on the ship, make sure to check with your mobile service provider to see if they offer international roaming packages or if you can purchase a local SIM card to avoid high roaming charges.
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10. Enjoy yourself
The final and perhaps most important tip for first-time cruisers is to simply enjoy your cruise adventure. After all, you’re on vacation meaning this is a chance to relax and unwind, so it’s essential to take advantage of everything the cruise has to offer.
This means trying out new activities, enjoying delicious meals, taking in stunning views and spending quality time with loved ones or making new friends. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new – whether it’s a dance class, a new type of cuisine or a shore excursion that you’ve never tried before.
Additionally, do remember that every cruise is different and even if you’ve cruised before, there are always new experiences to be had. So take the time to explore the ship and discover all of its amenities and activities.
Conclusion
There you have it, some tips on how to prepare for your first cruise. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
