What are suggested tips on a Cruise Trip?
Tips and Tricks for a smooth first Cruise Experience
Follow these tried-and-tested tips offered by
experienced cruising guys from their observations and experience to ensure your
journey goes smoothly, from the moment you book your ticket to the day you
return home.
Arrive at Your Departure Port a Day Early
If there’s one golden rule to follow when preparing for a
cruise, it’s this: always arrive at your departure port at least a day in
advance. While cruises often set sail in the afternoon, arriving on the morning
of departure can be risky. A delayed flight or a traffic jam can lead to missed
departures – and trust us, the ship won’t wait.
For international cruises, it's wise to arrive two or even
three days ahead of time. Not only does this buffer help you avoid travel delays,
but it also gives you time to recover from any jet lag. This is particularly
important for European cruises, where port-intensive itineraries can be
physically demanding. You'll want to be rested and ready to explore from the
moment you step on board.
Pack Your Bathing Suit in Your Carry-On
Once you arrive at the port, porters will take your luggage
and deliver it to your cabin later. This is convenient, but it means you might
not have access to your belongings for several hours. To avoid missing out on
the fun, pack essential items in your carry-on. This includes your bathing
suit, sunscreen, medications, phone charger, and anything else you might need
during your first few hours on board.
Related post: What is normally included in the cruise fare?
Don't Overpack
It’s easy to fall into the trap of overpacking, but less is
more when it comes to cruise vacations. A good strategy is to lay out
everything you plan to bring, then cut it in half. Most cruises are casual, and
you’ll only need a few outfits. If you need to refresh your wardrobe during the
trip, most ships offer laundry services or have self-serve laundromats on
board.
Packing lighter not only makes your travels easier but also
frees up space for souvenirs and other treasures you may pick up along the way.
Bring Your Own Drinks Onboard
Contrary to popular belief, many cruise lines allow you to
bring your own drinks aboard. While there are limits, this is a great way to
save on expensive onboard beverages. For instance, Disney Cruise Line allows
adults to bring up to two bottles of wine or six beers, while Royal Caribbean
allows one bottle of wine or Champagne per passenger. These must be packed in
your carry-on.
However, be mindful of corkage fees if you want to enjoy
your beverages in the ship's dining areas. It's always best to check the rules
specific to your cruise line before packing any drinks.
Related post: What do I need to go on a cruise?
Don’t Forget Extra Toiletries
While cruise ships stock common items like sunscreen and
aspirin, these come with a hefty price tag. To avoid overpaying, pack a small
bag with over-the-counter medications and other essentials like seasickness
pills, band-aids, and extra toiletries.
For frequent cruisers, packing a "go bag" with
these items ensures you’re always prepared, saving you both time and money on
board.
Additional Essentials to Pack
Besides toiletries, seasoned cruisers suggest bringing a few
extra items that can make your experience more comfortable:
- Clorox
wipes to sanitize your cabin surfaces.
- Room
freshener for small cabin spaces.
- Foldable
shoe racks to store toiletries and other small items.
- Highlighters
to mark activities in the daily planner.
- A
lanyard to keep your cabin keycard handy.
- Magnets
with hooks for hanging clothes and important documents on the metal
walls.
Though not essential, these little extras can make your
cruise more organized and enjoyable.
Related post: Bahamas Cruise Tips
Skip the Buffet on Day One
When you board a cruise ship, the buffet is often the go-to
spot for most passengers, making it incredibly crowded. Instead of joining the
masses, consider exploring alternative dining options. Some ships open
specialty or sit-down restaurants for embarkation day, providing a more
relaxing and quieter meal experience.
Research Ports in Advance
Cruises are known for their short, often jam-packed port calls, so it’s important to research each destination ahead of time. Arriving prepared ensures you make the most of your time ashore. Resources like travel blogs, Facebook groups dedicated to cruise lines, or cruise-specific guides can help you discover the best excursions and hidden gems in each port.
Join a Cruise Facebook Group
Joining Facebook groups for your cruise line can be an
invaluable resource. From destination tips to packing advice, these groups are
full of seasoned cruisers eager to help. Groups like the Royal Caribbean
Cruises group or Holland America Line Fans can provide insights and answer
questions, often more quickly than official channels. Plus, you might even make
new friends before your voyage.
Related post: When to Start Planning Your Magical DisneyCruise
Consider Booking Private Tours
While booking shore excursions through your cruise line is
easy, you might find better deals or more personalized experiences through
independent tour operators like Viator or ToursByLocals. Independent tours
often cater to smaller groups and visit less crowded spots, providing a more
intimate experience.
And if you’re worried about missing the ship, many
independent tour operators offer return-to-ship guarantees, ensuring you’re
back in plenty of time.
Sign Up for Activities Early
Many cruise lines allow you to book activities, excursions,
and specialty dining before your trip. Signing up early ensures you snag your
preferred time slots, especially on larger ships where reservations fill up
fast. If pre-booking isn’t an option, make reservations as soon as you board to
avoid disappointment.
It’s Okay to Relax
With so many activities onboard, it's easy to feel like you
have to do everything. But remember, you're on vacation. Make sure to carve out
some downtime for relaxation. Whether it’s enjoying your balcony, sipping a
cocktail, or simply watching the waves, taking a break will make your cruise
even more enjoyable.
Related post: What Makes A Disney Cruise So Special
Always Carry the Ship’s Contact Info
Whenever you go ashore, bring the ship’s contact information
with you. It’s usually included in the daily newsletter delivered to your
cabin. In case of delays or emergencies, having this information on hand will
make it easier to contact the cruise line.
Keep Your Phone in Airplane Mode
One of the most common mistakes first-time cruisers make is
leaving their phone on, only to rack up enormous data roaming charges. Even
international plans often don’t cover cruise ships, and the fees can be
astronomical.
To avoid this, switch your phone to airplane mode and use
Wi-Fi for any online needs. Many cruise lines offer Wi-Fi packages that allow
you to make calls and access the internet without data charges. Some phone
carriers also offer cruise-specific plans, but keeping your phone on airplane
mode is the simplest way to avoid surprise fees.
Download the Cruise Line’s App
Most cruise lines now offer apps that can be incredibly
useful during your voyage. These apps often include daily activity schedules,
dining options, and even the ability to make reservations or order drinks. Best
of all, these apps typically work without requiring a Wi-Fi package, allowing
you to stay connected to ship activities without extra cost.
Related post: Which cruise line is the most family friendly?
Book Through a Travel Agent
Booking a cruise can be overwhelming with so many choices to
make — from cabins to excursions to dining options. A seasoned travel agent who
specializes in cruises can simplify the process, helping you find the best
deals, secure additional perks, and offer assistance if anything goes wrong.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for any cruise. From
last-minute cancellations to medical emergencies, having insurance can save you
a lot of stress and money. Consider looking into "cancel for any
reason" (CFAR) travel insurance, which offers the flexibility to cancel
your trip for reasons that standard travel insurance may not cover. Here's a
helpful comparison of top CFAR travel insurance providers and information on
costs and benefits.
Choose Your Cabin Wisely
When selecting a cabin, it’s best to avoid areas near elevators, nightclubs, casinos, and other noisy spots. Cabins below the pool deck or near the anchor can also be loud. Research your ship’s layout before making a final decision to ensure a peaceful night's sleep.
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| Credit: UndercoverTourist |
Use Points for Onboard Purchases
Maximize your credit card rewards by using a travel points
card to pay for onboard purchases. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or
the Chase Sapphire Preferred® offer bonus points for travel and dining, helping
you earn rewards while enjoying your vacation.
Related post: Disney Cruise vs. Other Cruise Lines: WhyChoose Disney?
Watch for Automatic Gratuities
Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your bar
bills and spa treatments, typically around 18% to 20%. Make sure to check your
receipt before adding an additional tip, as you may end up tipping twice.
Use Points for Flights to Your Cruise
While using points for the cruise itself may not always be
the best value, redeeming points for flights to and from the port can save you
a lot of money.
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