Did you know you can take as much baggage as you want? Or that you can bring certain snacks or drinks? First time cruise tips can make or break your very first sailing. Cruises are an exciting adventure, promising unique experiences and unforgettable memories. But as a first-timer, the sheer volume of information can feel overwhelming. From choosing the right cruise line to understanding onboard etiquette and planning excursions, there’s a lot to consider. This guide offers essential tips to help you navigate the process and make the most of your voyage.
I’m going to walk you through what to think of before and during your cruise, and also discuss tips such as:
- Packing a universal adapter, water bottle, and day pack
- Check prices AFTER major sales (pro-level tip!)
- Taking as much luggage as you can carry (if you want)
And much more, so stick around for the in-depth cruise tips!
Before You Set Sail
Choosing the Right Cruise Line (It’s More Than Just Price)
Your choice of cruise line matters as different lines cater to different travelers, and many have completely different vibes. Families might love Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean for their kid-friendly activities and entertainment. For a more upscale experience, consider Celebrity or Holland America as a primary choice. Budget travelers often find great value with Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Line.
Understanding each line’s atmosphere enhances your experience. Some are known for their party vibe, while others focus on relaxation and enrichment. Reading reviews and testimonials can help align your expectations with what each line has to offer.
I actually made a video ranking cruise lines I’ve personally been on, and I highly recommend this as a brief introduction. I hope to make some more in-depth guides soon!
Itineraries: Destinations Can Change Everything
Itineraries vary widely based on sailing. Some focus on specific regions, while others mix destinations. If you’re drawn to historical sites, Mediterranean cruises are ideal. For tropical getaways, the Caribbean is a popular choice. Understanding your ports of call helps you prepare for excursions and cultural experiences.
Research each port to identify what interest you! Some ships offer overnight stays in select ports, giving you more time to explore and immerse yourself in local culture.
Different itineraries can also attract different crowds (as can length of the cruise). Longer sailings typically have less kids during school seasons, so itineraries that are lengthier such as trans-Atlantic or Pacific destinations will typically have less children onboard.
Booking Secrets: Wave Season and Off-Peak Timing
Booking a cruise doesn’t have to be daunting. Book well in advance to secure the best rates and cabin selections. Many cruise lines offer early-booking discounts that can lead to significant savings.
Make sure to sail during slower seasons! I make a point to sail during non-holiday times too avoid overpaying (plus less crowds!).
Watch for promotions, too. Off-peak seasons often bring lower prices and special perks like onboard credits or complimentary excursions. Wave season, which happens towards the beginning of the year, often showcases heavy promotions right after all of the Black Friday sales.
Honestly, I have actually found a lot of deals AFTER major sales (marketing teams, I see you guys). What I recommend is book during a sale, and then check the price after. Price drops happen, and you can often price match. Or just let your travel agent do all the heavy lifting.
If it all feels like a bit too much (or you want someone to wait on the phone for you when those prices drop), a travel agent specializing in cruises can provide insights to help you make an informed decision. Those who know the industry can make sure that everything is squared away such as drinks, dining, cabins, activities, and more.
Need help booking your first cruise? We can help! Just fill out the form on our book a cruise page and Nikki, my travel agent with over 100 cruises under her belt, can make sure your first sailing goes smoothly. Besides, who has time for all this anyways?
BTW, if you want to have the smoothest boarding day possible, be sure to check out my pro first time cruise tips dedicated to your special day!
Packing: The Forgotten Essentials
First time cruise tips almost always encompass packing tips, but it’s important for a reason. Packing for a cruise requires balancing essentials with practical extras.
Bring the basics of course such as valid identification, medications, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for day and night activities. Most cruise lines also have dining dress codes or themed-nights (such as MSC’s White Night or Virgin Voyages Scarlet Night), so pack accordingly. Also, it can be cold inside even if you are on a Caribbean sailing so consider outwear. Don’t worry though, what people don’t tell you is that you can take as much luggage as you can carry, so you can fit everything you need.
If you really want to, you can also bring food and drinks onboard for some cruise lines! Of course it varies by line, but here is Royal Caribbean’s policy on the matter.
Sometimes overlooked, I like to take a reusable water bottle, a daypack for excursions, and towel clips for beach days. My universal adapter is a must as well, as many cruise cabins often lack U.S. compatible outlets (or even just outlets in general).
Want to make sure you are absolutely prepared? Check out the travel essentials that I personally use and recommend (and getting these through the links helps support my work too 🙂 so thank you if you do!).
Pre-Cruise Preparation: Tips and Tricks
Preparation ensures smooth sailing. Before you embark, familiarize yourself with your cruise line’s policies on boarding times, luggage restrictions, and check-in procedures. Complete any online check-in or documentation to save time at the port.
Now, cruise security works like airport security, but without liquid-size restrictions. However, there are still prohibited items you need to leave behind. However, there are plenty of things you need to leave behind. For an example, you can check out Royal Caribbean’s prohibited items list here.
Create a pre-departure checklist! Make sure to confirm travel arrangements to the cruise terminal (and decide on parking, Uber, etc.) and ensure all necessary documents are ready. This greatly reduces last-minute stress, because traveling just does not have space for that.
Onboard Experience
Muster (or Mustard)
This is the first thing you will do when you get on the ship, period. It is the safety drill, which for all cruise lines’ credit, has been optimized since Covid to be more digital. You find your station on the ship with the help of the staff and check in, acknowledging that you know where to go in the event of an emergency. Do not skip this, as this is mandatory before the ship can sail off to your destinations.
Navigating the Ship: Layout and Amenities
Once onboard, just explore the ship layout. Most cruise ships have multiple decks with amenities like pools, spas, gyms, and shopping areas. Familiarizing yourself with the layout reduces confusion and helps you maximize your onboard experiences. Plus, you have to find where the food is!
Many ships offer tours of certain venues on the first day (p.s. you should totally check out the spa on boarding day!) which is a great way to learn about available facilities. Note the ship’s daily schedule to track events and activities that interest you.
Keep in note, you may not have access to your cabin immediately. Some cruise lines won’t open them up until the afternoon (on average around 2pm) as they have to turnaround the cabins within only a few hours.
Dining Options: What You Need to Know
Cruise ships offer varied dining options, from formal dining rooms to casual buffets. Some are included in your fare. Others, particularly specialty restaurants, do require an additional charge. Reservations for specialty dining fill up quickly, so book early.
Don’t hesitate to ask about dietary accommodations too. Most cruise lines handle various dietary restrictions, but inform them ahead of time to ensure your needs are met.
I love specialty dining for various occasions, and some cruise lines more than others. Celebrity offers some of the best dining in the industry, so I always choose to spend the extra dime with them. Sometimes you just have to try it out and figure out what you are or are not looking for.
Activities and Entertainment: Making the Most of Your Time
Onboard activities range from Broadway-style shows to trivia nights, cooking classes, and fitness sessions. Make sure to check the daily schedule to see what interests you. Engaging in activities with fellow passengers is a great way to make friends and enhance your experience. Fair warning: you may want to brush up on your karaoke skills ahead of time!
Many cruise lines offer unique experiences like wine tastings, themed parties, or comedy shows. There truly is something for everyone, no matter your social levels.
Staying Connected: Wi-Fi and Communication Tips
Many cruisers wonder about staying in touch while at sea. Most modern cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages, but they can be costly. Determine your communication needs beforehand and consider limiting internet use to save money. Or, some cell services offer cruise passes such as AT&T (not to be confused with international data, make sure to clarify with your service provider).
Some cruise lines offer communication apps that let you stay in touch with fellow passengers without incurring high charges. Explore these options as they can significantly enhance your onboard experience without exerting your wallet.
Health and Safety: What to Be Aware Of
Health and safety protocols vary by cruise line and current health guidelines. Many lines have implemented enhanced sanitation measures, including regular cleaning of public areas and health screenings for passengers. Definitely familiarize yourself with these protocols to ensure a safe experience.
Consider travel insurance that covers health emergencies at sea. Check with your cruise line about onboard medical facilities and what steps to take if you need medical assistance.
Curious about what ships have to offer? I have a full in-depth section just dedicated to Ship Guides & Reviews here.
Excursions and Port Days
Planning Your Shore Excursions
Shore excursions can be cruise highlights, offering opportunities to explore new cultures and activities. For your first time, I highly recommend booking what the cruise line has to offer! Cruise lines provide various guided excursions that can be pre-booked, and there are typically plenty of different options for each destination. Researching them in advance helps you select excursions that fit your interests and budget.
Many travelers prefer exploring ports independently. Just be aware of time constraints set by your cruise schedule to avoid missing the ship’s departure.
Tips for Exploring Ports Independently
Exploring independently can lead to unique, authentic experiences. Before heading ashore, research the port. Check out local customs, transportation options, and must-see attractions. Have a map or download a navigation app to make self-guided exploration easier. Oh, and make sure to always carry your cruise card and your documentation if required!
Consider joining local tours or hiring a guide for a more immersive experience. This is often more cost-effective than booking through the cruise line and gives you flexibility to tailor the experience to your interests.
Make sure you are aware of travel advisories regarding safety, because you definitely want to make sure you are aware of the area you are going to. While the actual port areas themselves are considered very safe, venturing out further is, well, literally traveling to another country.
Just be mindful: if you are late back to all-aboard and you are not on an excursion booked through the cruise line, the ship will not wait for you, so take this into consideration. If you are in a different time zone than what you are used, double check what the ship time is, as this is the time they will base everything off of. I like to set alarms and timers just in case.
I’ve been to a lot of ports where I really want to shake things up and try something new and different. I personally love Viator, which helps you find activities all over the world. I used them when I studied abroad in Austria too! They have such a wide variety of activities, so check out what they have for your cruise ports here (booking through this link also helps support my content, so thanks in advance!).
Managing Time Wisely at Each Destination
Time management is crucial when visiting multiple ports. Create a rough itinerary for each port, balancing sightseeing with relaxation. Always allow extra time to return to the ship—missing departure means being left behind and arranging your own way to the next destination.
To optimize your time, prioritize must-see attractions and be mindful of local transportation. Sometimes walking is the best way to soak in the local atmosphere. Other times, public transport saves valuable time.
If you want to learn more about ports, the how-to’s and the what-to’s, check out the Cruise Ports & Excursions Guide.
After the Cruise
Post-Cruise Tips: What to Expect
After disembarking, the transition back to land can feel jarring, and wobbly. Be prepared for disembarkation procedures, including customs checks and transportation options to your home or next destination. Some cruise lines offer shuttle services, while others require you to arrange your own transportation. Make sure to fill out the disembarkation information towards the last couple of days of the cruise (depending on the cruise, it will either be a form sent to your cabin or through the app) so they can assign you a time based on flights or personal needs.
Reflecting on your cruise experience helps process your journey. Consider keeping a travel journal or creating a scrapbook with photos and memories. This is a wonderful way to cherish your cruising experiences, and I fondly remember making scrapbooks with my grandma after each of our cruises.
Sharing Your Experience: Tips for Reviews
Many travelers enjoy sharing their cruise experiences through online reviews or social media, helping others make informed decisions. When writing reviews, focus on both positives and areas for improvement.
Be specific in your feedback and mention particular excursions, dining experiences, or onboard activities. This information is valuable, and I highly recommend being honest. Also, make sure to write down any notable staff who you think are worthy of a shout out, as those surveys are tremendous for their careers!
Conclusion
Your first cruise can be exhilarating, filled with adventure, relaxation, and exploration. From selecting the right cruise line and packing appropriately to navigating onboard life and maximizing port days, you can ensure a fulfilling and memorable vacation. Embrace the excitement and create memories that will last a lifetime!
If you want more tips and tricks for cruises, be sure to check out the full Cruise Tips Guide.
Quick FAQs
What should I wear on a cruise? Cruise attire varies by line and activity, but most major ones that are not “ultra luxury” typically are laid back. Pack casual clothing for daytime and smart-casual or formal wear for evening dining. Always check your cruise line’s dress code so you know!
Can I bring my own alcohol onboard? Most cruise lines have specific policies about bringing alcohol. Check your line’s guidelines as some allow limited quantities, while others prohibit it entirely.
How do I avoid seasickness? To minimize seasickness, choose a cabin midship where motion is less noticeable. Over-the-counter remedies, ginger products, or acupressure bands can also help. Seasickness tablets are also typically available at guest services.
Are shore excursions worth the cost? Shore excursions can enhance your experience by providing guided insight into local culture and attractions. However, if you prefer exploring independently, researching ahead of time can help you create your own adventure. Just make sure you are aware of travel advisories regarding safety.
What if I miss the ship’s departure? If you miss the ship, contact the cruise line immediately. They can guide you on catching up at the next port, though it may be costly and challenging. Often they will work with you, but there is the chance that you may not be able to get onboard.
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See you in the next post, bon voyage!