Have you just booked your first cruise? Or maybe you’re thinking about your first cruise and need something to convince you? Fear not! In our quick guide, we’ve compiled 10 top tips for first time cruisers to help them navigate the seas with confidence and make the most of their cruise experience. Our blog covers from choosing the right cruise line to onboard etiquette, these tips will ensure smooth sailing from start to finish.
Tip 1: Choose the right cruise line:
Research different cruise lines and choose one that suits your needs and preferences. Each cruise line has its own unique vibe, amenities, and activities. Wether you’re cruising as a multigenerational family, newlyweds, or even as a solo traveller, finding the cruise line that ticks all your needs and requirements is paramount for a first time cruiser. The wrong choice and you may never want to cruise again.
Tip 2: Pick the right cabin:
Cabins come in different sizes, locations, and prices. Consider your budget and what’s important to you, such as a balcony or a quiet location. As a first time cruiser, you’re going to hear phrases like “inside cabin“, “outside cabin”, and be totally confused! But fear not, we have a breakdown!
Lingo Breakdown:For most cruise lines, an ‘inside cabin’ means you’ll be in a cabin without windows – perfect if you love complete darkness when you’re trying to catch some Z’s. An ‘outside cabin’ means you’ll have a window in your cabin, and are always located on the outside of the ship – which can be great for some natural light. Then, a ‘balcony cabin’ means exactly what you think it means! You might even hear ‘obstructed balcony’ or ‘partial obstruction’, and this may mean that the view from your balcony could be obstructed.
You may like to read our blog post: Cruising 101: What is an Inside Cabin.
Tip 3: Plan your itinerary:
As a first time cruiser, you’re going be completely overwhelmed with the amount of choices available to you – which isn’t a bad thing! But make a list of what you are wanting to get out of a cruise holiday, and use that as your base to find the best deal. Are you looking to go whale spotting in Alaska? Island hopping in Greece? Or are you someone who just wants to sit by the pool? All is totally valid.
But make sure you have an idea of what you’re wanting, and filter the deals that way. A deal is only a good deal if it really benefits you. Once booked, plan out any excursions you may want to do. Some activities may require advanced booking, so don’t wait until the last minute. Nowadays, most cruise lines have their own app, and which can act as a booking system! Definitely worth checking out a few months before you set sail.
Tip 4: Budget, budget, budget:
Set a budget for your trip and stick to it. There’s so many cruises to pick from and for ALL budgets. This includes the initial booking, flights, hotels, and any extra charges that may creep up whilst on board. Keep track of your expenses and avoid unnecessary spending. Depending on who you’re cruising with, you may get gratuities (tipping) added on to every meal and drink you order! So definitely worth keeping track.
Tip 5: Pack wisely:
Pack comfortable clothes, appropriate shoes, and don’t forget essentials such as sunscreen, medication, and travel documents. Even if you’re going to a warm destination, always pack for all weather climates as you just never know!
Tip 6: Get to know the ship:
Before booking your cruise, have a look at all the features your ship has to offer! Think of the target audience the cruise line is appealing towards, is that you? Do you want to spend your entire vacation with that demographic? These are key things to think about. Then once onboard, take some time to explore the ship and get familiar with its layout. This will help you navigate the ship more easily and find your way around, and you may even find a hidden gem!
Tip 7: Check the dress code:
Most cruise lines have formal nights or dress codes for certain restaurants, but they’re not always compulsory. If you don’t want to wear a suit on formal night, then you don’t have too! But maybe search for a cruise line that is a little bit more relaxed with this.
Your traditional cruise lines such as: Cunard and Holland America Line, would prefer you to wear a shirt and jacket to dinner. Whilst Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) may even let you ride with socks and sandals.
Tip 8: Stay hydrated:
It’s easy to get dehydrated on a cruise, especially if you’re going to a warmer climate. And even more especially if you’re getting a drinks package! A long day in the sun soaking up those piña colada’s may result in dehydration and sun stoke, so make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Plus, bring a reusable water bottle to avoid wasting plastic! And maybe pack some electrolytes for a post-booze pick-up!
How are you liking our top tips for first time cruisers so far?
Tip 9: Stay connected:
Check with your network provider to see if they cover the destinations you’re visiting! Always handy if you’re out exploring the sights. In addition, consider purchasing a Wi-Fi package beforehand but it can be expensive! However, if you’re wanting to use this vacation as a time to go completely off the grid – disregard this entire tip!
Tip 10: Have fun:
Don’t forget to relax and enjoy your vacation! It’s your first cruise! You’re going to have an amazing time. Take advantage of the onboard activities, entertainment, and amenities to make the most of your trip. For some a cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you deserve to enjoy it! You’ll meet amazing people from all walks of life.
Tip 11: Plan for the unexpected:
Bet you didn’t expect an 11th Tip did you? Well, plan for the unexpected! Make sure you make copies of your passport, cruise details, and even emergency contact information. You just never what can happen whilst you’re on a vacation. And don’t forget travel insurance! Check Citizen’s Advice for more on that!
Our Top 10 Tips for First Time Cruisers
Those were our Top 10 Tips for First Time Cruisers! Hopefully they’ll ease you into preparing for your first cruise. Got any of your own to share? Did anyone give you a life changing top tip for your first cruise? Drop them in the comments!
