Cruises are vacations that stay in your heart! For this reason, many passengers have been on a cruise ship several times and already know how this type of trip works.
Despite this, and despite the fact that some consider themselves to be experienced cruisers, there are still some mistakes that everyone makes more or less frequently.
In this article, we are going to look at the most common ones that even seasoned cruise passengers continue to make.
Overpacking or underpacking
I have talked to many people who have gone on cruises several times. When I asked them what’s the mistake they make most often, they almost always told me that they pack too much or too little.
Unfortunately, it is not easy to figure out what is the right amount of clothes to bring on a cruise, so it is quite easy to make mistakes.
I usually give two pieces of advice: the first is to plan outfits in advance, so that we understand, at least in general, how many clothes we need.
The second is to bring versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched.
Eating Too Often at the Buffet
I love the buffet on cruise ships, there’s a huge variety of food, and you can pick whatever you like.
However, remember that cruise ships have much more to offer in terms of food, and the best one is served in restaurants (both complimentary and specialty ones).
Therefore, don’t limit yourself and try the different dining experiences available on the ship.
Still, on the buffet, another mistake I see many people make is to stop at the entrance, where there’s usually a lot of hustle and bustle.
As I’ve explained in the list of the things you should never do at the buffet, move just a bit toward the back. You will find more food stations and many more free tables.
Booking too many excursions
I know you want to make the most of your vacation, but be careful not to overdo it.
For example, it could be tempting to book a shore excursion in every port, but it could also lead to missed opportunities for spontaneous adventures.
I prefer a 50/50 approach. For some ports, I prefer organized excursions, even though they’re usually done in large groups and have tight schedules.
Meanwhile, for ports that allow it, I opt for independent exploring.
Ignoring Seasickness Precautions
Even if you travel during the warm season, and the weather is expected to be perfect, never underestimate seasickness.
Sea conditions can rapidly change, and it’s always better to be prepared.
Just bring some motion sickness remedies like pills or patches. There is always an infirmary on board, but as you have seen in this article, the prices are exorbitant.
Not Booking in Advance
I cannot believe how many experienced cruise passengers still make this mistake.
Never wait until you’re on board to book specialty dining, spa treatments, excursions, or other packages. You should always book them in advance.
There are two reasons for that:
- First: booking in advance saves a lot of money because the prices on the ship are higher.
- Second: you risk that the services or packages you want to book sell out. So plan ahead and book in advance. If you are not sure what to choose, take a look at the 7 cruise ship extras that are totally worth the money.
Forgetting Travel Insurance
Many travelers see travel insurance as an unnecessary expense. Just let me add that you see it this way until you really need it.
I know that having serious health problems on vacation is not a common occurrence, however, it can happen and in those cases having travel insurance can really be your salvation.
It usually covers a wide range of issues, from medical emergencies to trip cancellations, and you can also find cruise-specific insurance.
Booking Flights Too Early on Disembarkation Day
One mistake I have seen several times is to book the return flight too early in the morning.
Keep in mind that disembarkation can be a lengthy process, and delays are not uncommon.
So never underestimate the time needed. If you want to stay really safe, choose a return flight that departs in the afternoon.
In addition, check the list of things you can bring on a plane but not a cruise ship, to avoid issues with security checks.
Not Respecting Crew Members
Cruise ship crew members work incredibly hard, often for long hours, to ensure passengers have a great experience.
In the article on the cruise workers’ salaries, we’ve also seen that they don’t make that much money.
Therefore, remember to be respectful and friendly towards them and try to understand that sometimes they can have a bad day at work.
Unfortunately, some passengers forget this and treat crew members poorly. On one cruise, I noticed a passenger rudely berating a waiter because his dish was not as hot as he wanted. Relax and remember that you are on vacation!
Failing to Unplug
Cruise ships are a perfect opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and relax.
Another mistake I see is that many people remain hooked to their phones and digital devices without enjoying their vacation 100 percent.
On my last cruise, I made a conscious effort to put my phone away and truly enjoy the activities and the trip. I didn’t even purchase the internet package!
I know some people can’t do this for work or familiar reasons, but if you can take a break from social media, emails, phone calls, and messages to immerse yourself fully in the cruise experience​.
Ignoring Travel Documents and Requirements
A very common mistake is not to check documents long before departure.
In particular, check the expiration date of your passport; some countries require at least 6 months of validity left.
In addition, put your travel documents in a very safe place, that’s why I’ve included them in the list of the things you should always put in the cruise carry-on bag.
They are essential for boarding a cruise, and their lack is among the reasons why cruise boarding may be denied.
