Tips For First Time Cruisers

If you’re looking for tips for first time cruisers, you’ve come to the right place.

Introduction

Thinking about going on your first cruise? Get ready for an unforgettable experience! However, embarking on your first cruise can be overwhelming. With so many options and decisions to make, it’s important to be well-prepared. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with these tips for first time cruisers.

1. Choose the Right Cruise Line

Choosing the right cruise line is a key to having a great experience. Hopefully these tips for first time cruisers will help. Are you looking for a family experience geared toward the kids? Or maybe a romantic getaway? Sea days or more ports of call? Before you book think it through. Consider factors such as the size of the ship, onboard activities, dining options, and destination. We have sailed a variety of ships and several different lines and found our particular sweet spot. As we have gotten older, we have shifted from booking the latest mega-ships to ships that are a bit smaller. Our kids are grown so that isn’t usually a factor any longer. Do your research, and you will find the line that suits you best. They’re all great in their own way so you can’t go too wrong with any of them. I’ll be posting more about some of the differences very soon.

2. Book Early

Plan ahead, way ahead. This ensures you get the best cabin options, but also allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions. A pro tip for first time cruisers is that you can pay your cruise off in installments of your choice. As long as you are paid in full by the final payment date you can do it however you choose. So, book early, giving yourself time to get it paid for. Prices are normally lowest when you book early but another tip is that most lines will price match if the fare drops below what you booked. Check often to see if you can save some money. Extras like drink packages, wi-fi plans, and specialty dining are usually more expensive when purchased after boarding so keep that in mind too. Start planning today for next year’s cruise vacation.

3. Pack Smart

Pack smart; only take what you will need for the length of your cruise. You’ll normally need beach/pool wear, comfortable shoes, something slightly more upscale for dining, and casual clothes for excursions and touring on your own. Opinions vary but personally I would rather over pack a little than try to challenge myself to use only a carry-on bag. Just remember, you’re the one that will have to handle all of that baggage so the less you have the easier your travels will be. We usually pack a medium sized suitcase and a carry-on back pack each and it seems to be a good compromise between the two extremes. As a first-time cruiser, be sure to avoid over packing; it isn’t worth the inconvenience.

4. Plan Excursions in Advance

Research and book shore excursions in advance to ensure you make the most of your time in port and avoid missing out on popular activities. If you watch the prices these also go on sale periodically so it pays to keep informed. Get familiar with the cruise line website- there is a lot of information there. The most popular excursions sell out too, so if you aren’t paying attention, you could get left out. Paid excursions are completely optional but can be a highlight in the right circumstances.

5. Familiarize Yourself with Onboard Activities

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the onboard activities and entertainment options so you don’t miss out on anything during your cruise. It’s really helpful to know what is happening when, especially for first time cruisers. Another tip is that there is normally a printed daily schedule that will be distributed every evening to keep you informed of the next day’s activities. Again, do your homework and don’t be left out. Themed parties, shows, and other events will be going on all the time and if you want to be there you’ll have to pay attention.