Isabella Miller The cruise industry is experiencing a massive wave of “new-to-cruise” travelers, with millions of people ditching traditional road trips for life on the open sea and people who have never gone aboard a ship will find it difficult to understand the totality of the experience because everything about it exceeds their imagination. The experienced sailors provide these practical first voyage tips which will help you establish your maritime skills.
Start with a Short “Sample” Cruise
Before the 14-day ocean crossing, you should first experience the 3- to 4-night Bahamas or Mexico sailing and the “test drive” lets you experience ship life for yourself without needing to make a permanent commitment.
Work with a Cruise-Specific Travel Agent
Cruising requires more complex systems than hotel reservations because it offers multiple benefits which combine with different room types. Experts can access “hidden” deals which provide onboard credits which public websites do not show.
Arrive at the Port City a Day Early
Flight delays are the number one reason people miss their ships. The local hotel which you stay at the night before will protect you from all flight cancellations because you will not miss the ship departure time.
Pack a “Day One” Carry On Bag
The evening will bring your stateroom its luggage delivery from the checked luggage area. Your swimsuit and medications and extra clothes should go in a small backpack so you can use the pool or buffet throughout the day.
Use the Ship’s App Before You Board
Modern cruise lines use an app system which lets passengers do everything from booking dinner to making show reservations. Experts recommend you start logging in when you arrive at the pier because this will let you get the best dining times before others take them.
Don’t Fear the “Inside” Cabin
If you plan to spend all your time at the pool and exploring ports, you should choose an inside room because it will help you save hundreds of dollars that you can use for shore excursions.
Budget for “The Extras”
The ticket price usually covers food and basic drinks, but specialty coffee, Wi-Fi, and soda packages add up. You should decide your essential items by today because this will protect you from discovering unexpected expenses on the final day.
Book Shore Excursions Early
The most popular activities like swimming with dolphins or exploring ruins—fill up fast and if you have a dream activity, you should book it two months before your sailing date.
Invest in “Magnetic” Hooks
Most cabin walls are made of metal. You can use magnetic hooks to hang your items which will keep your small room clean and organized.
Explore the Ship on Day One
Use the first hour to walk from the upper deck down to the lowest level and knowing where the “secret” quiet decks or the 24-hour pizza station is located will save you time later.
Seek Out the “Hidden” Lunch Spots
The main buffet is usually a chaotic mess on embarkation day. Cafes and poolside grills located throughout the property can be visited by guests who want to escape the main areas.
Pack a Small First-Aid Kit
The medical centers on ships provide treatment but you should bring home basic items which include seasickness bands and ibuprofen and band-aids.
Pace Your Entertainment
You don’t have to do everything. The best cruise memories which people create happen when they spend quiet time together on the deck watching the sunset.
