There’s no vacation experience quite like that of a cruise. From boarding the ship, waving “bon voyage” to the departure port, cruising through open water, arriving in and exploring ports of call, it’s truly one of a kind.
Because it is a world unto itself, it can be difficult to know exactly what to expect from a cruise until you’ve actually experienced it yourself. So, check out these six first-time cruise tips to help you be prepared as possible for when the moment
1. Research the Cruise Line And The Specific Ship
When you’re first figuring out which cruise to book, make sure to read the details about the cruise line. Cruise lines, like hotels, vary in variety from mainstream and family-friendly to premium, luxury and even ultra luxury. Think about what you want your first-time cruise experience to be like and what your budget is before choosing a cruise line.
Cruise lines also vary by the specific ship. Some have multiple pools, others are known for their dining selections, while others have exclusive entertainment options. The word “all-inclusive” also gets thrown around quite a bit in the cruise world. Be sure you know what exactly that means for the cruises you are looking at. For some, alcohol is included but not for others. Know in advance so you can make the right decisions for you.
Also take some time to research the cruise destination because while the act of being on a cruise ship is in it of itself a vacation, where you go is also important.
2. Familiarize Yourself With The Ports Of Call
A quintessential part of the cruising experience is docking in ports of call for shore excursions. This is a great way to explore multiple destinations and get some time to reacquaint yourself with dry land. However, don’t rely on your cruise line alone to tell you what to see or do. Research each location and discover what you would most like to do there and make a plan.
Most cruises offer shore excursions, but you can always choose to branch off on your own. You can also opt to skip a stop and stay on the cruise ship. This is a great way to explore and enjoy the ship and its onboard activities when it’s significantly less busy. And, if you don’t want to skip a full excursion day, you can always opt to cut your itinerary in half.
3. Choose Carefully When It Comes To Booking Your Cabin
Between all the entertainment on the ship as well as excursion time when ashore, you likely won’t spend much time in your cabin. But, it’s still important to choose wisely when it comes to a room on your first cruise.
Many individuals prefer to steer clear of a room near an elevator due to the increased foot traffic one brings. Also, try to avoid a room above a nightclub or late-night entertainment venue. Has seasickness ever been an issue for you? Then try to find a room near the middle of the ship that is not too high up, such as a mid-ship stateroom with a balcony for fresh air when you need it.
4. Arrive at Your Departure Port A Day Ahead Of Schedule
In order to experience your first cruise, you have to actually make it aboard before the ship departs. While that may not sound like a challenge, it definitely can be, and many people have been stuck on the wrong end of a “bon voyage” wave from a cruise liner. To avoid this, arrive at your departure port a day ahead of schedule. This will provide a cushion of time to ensure you make it on board your ship.
Some novice cruise vacationers think they can book a flight to their departure city the same day and board an afternoon cruise only for their flight to get delayed or even canceled — cruise ships will not wait for you. If you are traveling internationally for a cruise, try to arrive two or even three days in advance. It’s much better to be early with time to relax and explore the departure city than late. Plus, if you arrive early enough, you might be able to request a tour of the ship and get the lay of the land, or better ship, before it gets too busy.
5. Bring Your Essentials In A Carry-On
During the boarding process, porters will carry away your luggage and everything you’ve packed which will be delivered to your room later in the day. While it’s great not to have to lug heavy bags to your room, that also means you will be without your luggage for several hours your first day. Therefore, store anything and everything you think you might want or need for those first hours on the ship in your carry-on bag.
Think medications and sunscreen, a bathing suit, phone charger and your ID — anything you need to let the fun begin right away. Some seasoned cruisers also like to pack magnets as the walls in cabins are often metal. This is a great way to hang up invitations, tickets and even towels to dry as you are not allowed to hang towels over a cruise ship balcony.
Of course, you’ll want to have your phone with you. Speaking of phones, here’s a quick bonus tip: Put and keep your phone in airplane mode. Many phone plans do not offer talking, texting or data on cruise ships, even those with international plans. Consider buying a Wi-Fi package in order to make calls and texts without using your phone’s data to avoid racking up a high bill.
6. Pace Yourself
With an abundance of activities, dining and entertainment, you’ll want to see and try everything on your first cruise. All the food options will look fantastic, the entertainment world renowned and the activities and excursions must-do’s. Just take your time.
It’s okay to rest, especially the first night, in order to have the energy to enjoy all there is to do on your first cruise. Relax on your balcony and enjoy being on vacation. All the pools and spas, restaurants and more will be waiting for you.
Whenever and wherever you go on your first cruise, it’s sure to be a vacation experience to remember. Read on to discover how Hilton Grand Vacations can help you book your dream cruise.