15 Tips for Your First Cruise

I have been traveling since I was a kid, but last fall was the first time on a cruise. I couldn’t believe how different it was from other trips I’ve taken. I must admit that I was a little nervous before I went. What I learned was going on a cruise can be an exciting experience, especially if you have an open mind. Here are 15 tips for your first cruise.

Choose the right cruise

Do your research and choose a cruise that matches your interests and needs. Consider the itinerary, cruise line, and ship size. Is it going to be a family vacation, girls’ trip, romantic getaway? This could change the ship that works best. Click HERE to see how to find the right cruise line.

Plan your budget

Plan your budget, including the cost of the cruise, airfare, transfers, and excursions. Make sure you plan on incidentals and tips. Decide what aspects of your trip you don’t mind cutting back on and what aspects you are willing to splurge on.

Book early

Book your cruise as early as possible to get the best deals and secure your preferred cabin type. I hate when I have my heart on a certain room type then I slack off and by the time I try to book it it’s gone.

Pack smart

Pack light, but make sure you have all the essentials for your trip. Bring comfortable clothing, dressier clothes for dinners, gym gear, and everything you’ll need for your excursions. Need help with your packing list? Check out my blog on 40 Useful Items for a Cruise.

Check your documents

Make sure you have all the necessary documents for your cruise, including your passport, visas, and boarding passes. You may also want to check the country’s vaccination requirements. Don’t forget to print out your luggage tags and attach them.

Make time to use the spa & gym

Pamper yourself and get a fun workout in. The gym may include a hot sauna, an infrared sauna, and maybe even a thermal suite. Does the ship have a running track, workout classes, yoga studio? It’s a great time to try a new workout. Take your time at the gym and maybe even shower in a nice big shower stall.

Arrive early

Don’t you want to get a head start on your vacation? As soon as you step foot onboard, you can grab a drink, relax, and get in vacation-mode. Select an early boarding time and sign up as soon as they open up. Arrive at the port early to avoid last-minute rush and to get through security and check-in.

Stay hydrated

On the days leading up to your trip, as well as when you’re on board, make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun or drinking lots of cocktails.

Get to know the ship

Before your trip, jump online to watch review videos about the ship and listen to their advice about what activities you’ll want to do. Once on board, familiarize yourself with the layout, restaurants, and activities.

Attend the safety drill

Attend the safety drill to learn about the safety procedures and emergency exits. On our ship we couldn’t leave port before everyone took the drill. I was getting so annoyed that people weren’t doing it. Don’t be THAT GUY.

Sign up early for excursions

Sign up for shore excursions early to avoid missing out on the activities you want to do. We had the best time on our excursions. This is a great time to try a new activity, learn about a different culture, and meet other passengers. If you are going to a private island on your ship, you may want to book a clamshell or a cabana before you get there because they sell out.

Try new cuisine

Try the local cuisine at each port of call to experience the local culture and flavors. On the ship, make sure you sample some of the exciting food on the menu. We ate alligator, frog legs, and escargot. It’s also the perfect time to sample some new cocktails. Ask the bartenders what they recommend.

Stay connected

Stay connected with your family and friends back home by purchasing an internet package on the ship. I loved being able to Facetime with my family each evening from my cabin and show them views from the balcony and around the ship.

Get the drink package

I loved not having to think about what drinks cost. I also used the package to buy lattes or an espresso in the morning, or an iced chai in the afternoon.