We have all been cruise beginners at some point in our lives.
During my early cruises, I made many mistakes. Back then, there was very little information available online about cruising, so we embarked on our journeys with a sense of adventure.
Fortunately, with the internet, it’s much easier to share information, and even first-time cruisers can be well prepared and know what to expect.
Looking back at those rookie missteps, I put together a list of 10 things I really wish I had known before my first cruise. Hopefully, they help make someone else’s first sailing a whole lot smoother.
1. Seasickness Isn’t as Big a Deal as You Think
When I tell someone I love cruises, one of the most common responses is, “I have never gone on one, I would definitely get seasick.”
This is untrue most of the time, and I’ll tell you why.
Large cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that minimize the motion of the ocean, making it unlikely you’ll feel it at all. In addition, modern cruise ships use a whole range of measures to prevent excessive sway.
And on the rare occasion the sea does get rough, it is an easy fix. Pack some anti nausea medication just in case. Chances are it will stay in your bag, but being prepared is always better than worrying about it later.
2. Daily Planners are Your Best Friends
On the ship, you will find a best friend: your daily planner.
You will find it in your cabin every evening, listing all activities and the opening hours of all on-board services for the next day.
Use it to plan your day and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the fun. I usually underline the activities I really wanna do, so I don’t forget to go there.
To save on paper, some cruise lines are providing only a digital version of the planner via an app or a QR code.
If you prefer the paper version, ask at the front desk; they usually have it.
3. Book Your Activities Early
Popular onboard activities like spa treatments, specialty dining, and shore excursions can sell out quickly.
From my experience, spa treatments and other onboard activities easily sell out on sea days, while some excursions can sell out for popular ports.
Book these as soon as possible, even better if you do so before your departure.
In the article about the mistakes to avoid on cruise private islands, I’ve already told you that many excursions were completely booked at CocoCay.
4. The Food is a Journey in Itself
Some first-time cruisers told me, “We loved it, we ate every day at the buffet.“
You guessed right, they never went to the main dining room and didn’t try any specialty restaurants.
There’s definitely plenty of good food at the buffet, but dining experiences at the restaurants are on another level.
Better service, more thoughtful dishes, and a slower pace that actually feels like part of the vacation.
5. Beverage Packages Can Be a Lifesaver
I know drink packages aren’t for everyone, but if you drink a lot, they could be lifesavers!
Some cruise rookies think that they won’t spend much on drinks, but in reality, they often end up spending more than they should.
First, drinks on a cruise are pricier than on land; second, passengers tend to drink more because of the many bars on board and the party atmosphere.
Therefore, evaluate the drink packages carefully before sailing. Just make sure you avoid the most common mistakes with drink packages.
6. You Can Bring Your Own Wine
Not many people know this, but you can bring your own wine bottles on a cruise.
Most cruise lines allow it during embarkation day; just be sure to check their alcohol policy.
Usually, it’s ok to bring a bottle or two of wine or champagne per adult, but no beer or spirits.
This can be a great way to enjoy a favorite vintage without paying the onboard prices; however, be aware that there can be a corkage fee.
If you’re not sure about the corkage fee, just ask your waiter or the restaurant manager.
7. The Captain is a Celebrity
A person who has never been on a cruise might expect the captain to be just another crew member.
In reality, on cruise ships, the captain is like a celebrity.
They attend social events, offer meet-and-greet opportunities, and even organize parties. Usually, people dress up and even line up for photos.
Some cruise captains have even become stars on social media. You have probably heard of Captain Kate McCue. In this article, we saw everything about her private life and salary.
8. Tendering is a Thing
One thing cruise rookies should know: sometimes the ship can’t dock directly at a port.
When the pier is too small, or there are already many ships there, you’ll have to take a smaller boat called a tender to shore.
It’s a unique experience, and it can be fun if it’s your first time, but it may take extra time and could be a problem for people with mobility impairments.
9. Your Stateroom is Key to Comfort
Choosing the right stateroom can make all the difference.
I definitely recommend that you carefully read the guide on how to find the best cabin on a cruise ship.
In general, if you’re prone to seasickness, go for a mid-ship, lower-deck cabin.
If sleep matters more, avoid cabins located directly below busy areas like the pool deck or night venues. And for truly solid rest, it helps to follow a few simple tips on how to sleep like a baby on a cruise ship.
10. Don’t Overpack, But Don’t Underpack Either
I know that packing for a cruise can be tricky.
The risk is overpacking or underpacking, though the first happens much more often than the second.
Try to pack versatile clothing for various climates, and check the cruise packing mistakes everyone makes.
In addition, check the list of cruise essentials and the list of things you should always pack in your cruise carry-on bag.
