Hey there, first-time cruisers!

If you’re anything like us, the thought of a dream vacation includes setting sail on a fabulous cruise. Cruising is just awesome because it lets you explore multiple incredible destinations all in one trip, and the best part? No need to constantly pack and unpack your suitcase!

Now, speaking of our own cruise adventure, we have to admit we made a few rookie mistakes that still make us chuckle. You know, like when we stepped off the ship at the ports and realized we hadn’t done our homework on the awesome shore excursions available. Instead, we found ourselves meandering around with no particular plan, and in some places, all we could do was shop ’til we dropped!

You know, we were all beginners at some point, and we certainly had our fair share of mishaps when we started cruising. But you know what? Those little slip-ups didn’t even put a dent in our excitement for cruising! In fact, we were so determined to spare you from making the same blunders that we decided to whip up this fantastic list of tips, just for all you first-time cruisers.

Tips #1Research the Ports

Absolutely, researching the ports you’ll visit is a crucial step in planning your cruise and ensuring an amazing experience! It’s quite common for first-time cruisers to get caught up in selecting the perfect cruise line and ship, but the itinerary matters just as much. Remember, the shore days are often the highlight of cruising. So, don’t overlook the importance of considering the ports before you make your booking.

Here’s a friendly tip: when you’re going through the itinerary, pay close attention to the time you’ll spend at each port. If you’re eager to explore ashore, whether through organized shore excursions or your own adventures, having ample time is key.

Tips #2 Read the fine print

Ah, the fine print – it’s that tiny, often overlooked treasure trove of information that can really make a difference in your cruise experience, especially if you’re new to cruising.

Here’s the scoop: when you’re booking your cruise, take a moment to dive into that fine print. It might seem like a tedious task, but trust us, it’s worth it.

First things first, check out the cancellation policy. Life is unpredictable, and you never know when you might need to cancel your cruise for any reason. Most cruise lines have pretty strict cancellation policies, but some are more understanding and flexible.

Another hidden gem in the fine print is the clause about itinerary changes. Sometimes, due to factors like weather, the cruise line might need to switch things up a bit. They’ll do their best to substitute another exciting port if needed, but if that’s not possible, they might offer you a partial refund or credit for a future cruise. It’s good to know what to expect.

Oh, and don’t forget to look for the final payment due date. Cruise lines typically expect you to settle your bill 4-6 months before you set sail.

Tips #3. Buy Travel Insurance

Here’s a golden nugget of wisdom for all you first-time cruisers out there: don’t skip out on travel insurance! It’s one of the most vital things you can do to safeguard your cruise adventure.

You see, it’s quite common for new cruisers to either pass on travel insurance or not fully grasp its significance. But let us tell you, it’s a game-changer.

Travel insurance swoops in to save the day when life throws unexpected curveballs your way. Whether it’s unruly weather, a sudden medical emergency, or an unfortunate family event, travel insurance has your back. If you ever need to cancel your cruise, it can reimburse you for those non-refundable expenses, provided it meets its policy terms.

And here’s a pro tip: you don’t have to buy travel insurance directly from the cruise line. You can shop around and find insurance through third-party providers. You can even opt for extra peace of mind by adding “cancel for any reason” coverage for an additional cost.

Tips #4. Book Your Cruise Early

Here’s a cruise booking tip that’s worth its weight in gold: don’t procrastinate! The earlier you lock in your cruise plans, the better. Trust us; it can make a world of difference.

First off, booking early increases your chances of nabbing the exact cabin type you desire. Plus, here’s the icing on the cake: you might score a sweeter deal on the price tag. Picture this: we booked a cruise over a year in advance, and guess what? Four months later, the cost had doubled! Yep, you read that right.

Now, don’t get us wrong; the timing can vary depending on factors like the cruise destination, time of year, demand, and the ship itself. Some Caribbean cruises, for example, tend to drop in price as the sail date approaches. So if you’re the spontaneous type and spot a last-minute sale, go for it.

And here’s a savvy cruise tip for you: booking in advance often lets you spread out the payments. This can be a real lifesaver, especially if you’re booking a year or more ahead. Instead of one hefty lump sum, you just pay a deposit until you reach the final payment due date.

So, don’t wait! Get ahead of the game, secure that cruise, and start the countdown to your dream vacation. Bon voyage! 🚢🌅🏝️

Tips #5. Which Cabin to book?

Let’s chat about cabin choices because they can really shape your cruise experience, and we want it to be just right for you.

Now, some cruisers are perfectly content with the most budget-friendly option, like an inside cabin on the lower deck. And that’s totally cool if you don’t plan to spend much time in your room. But hey, if you’re even a smidge claustrophobic or not a fan of feeling like you’re in a pitch-black box, then steer clear of those inside rooms. They’re windowless and, well, not everyone’s cup of tea.

If you like to kick back and relax in your cabin, here’s a tip: go for at least a window. And if you’re feeling a bit fancy and have a bit more to spend, a balcony is a game-changer. Once you’ve experienced that fresh ocean breeze and stunning views right from your own private balcony, it’s hard to go back to an ocean view or an inside cabin. Trust us, it’s a game-changer!

And here’s a nugget of wisdom for anyone prone to motion sickness: consider booking mid-ship cabins on a higher deck. You’ll feel less of the ship’s movement, and it’s usually quieter. Also, do a little research to see what’s above and below your chosen cabin. You definitely don’t want to be right under a bustling dining area or the pool deck.

So, whether you’re looking for coziness, a view, or some peace and quiet, your choice of the cabin can truly make or break your cruise experience.

 

 

Ah, let’s talk about the cruise extras. Here’s the lowdown on what you might encounter:

• Gratuities: These are typically service fees that cover tips for the crew who make your cruise enjoyable. Some cruise lines include them automatically, while others leave it to your discretion.
• Shore Excursions: These are like mini-adventures at each port of call. You can book these in advance or wait until you’re onboard. Just remember, the best ones can fill up quickly, so it’s wise to plan ahead for those.
• Drink Packages: If you’re planning to indulge in beverages on the cruise, you can consider drink packages. You can often purchase these on embarkation day or even pre-book them.
• Paid Cruise Activities: Some cruises offer special activities or experiences for an extra fee. These could range from spa treatments to onboard classes or entertainment.
• Speciality Dining: If you’re a foodie or just want to change up your dining experience, check out speciality dining options. They offer a more intimate and often gourmet experience compared to the main dining rooms.

Tips #7. Don’t Fly on the Day of Your Cruise

Flying on the day of your cruise might sound like a daring adventure, but trust us, it’s a risky move. Flights can be unpredictable – delays, cancellations, and all sorts of unexpected surprises can crop up, and you definitely don’t want to miss out on your cruise excitement.

Our advice? Play it safe and plan to arrive at least one day before your cruise sets sail. This gives you a comfortable buffer in case your flight decides to throw you a curveball.

Sure, you’ll need to book a hotel for that extra night, and that’s an added cost to consider. But here’s a savvy trick: if you’ve been racking up travel credit card points over time, this is the perfect opportunity to put them to good use and cover those hotel charges. It’s like getting a freebie in preparation for your cruise adventure.

So, don’t roll the dice on the day-of flight. Give yourself that peace of mind, arrive a day early, and start your cruise with a relaxed smile, not a frantic dash.

Tips #8. Don’t Be Shy in the Dining Room

Ahoy, fellow foodies! Here’s a dining tip that’ll make your cruise experience even more delicious: don’t be shy in the dining room!

Many first-time cruisers don’t realize that when you’re in the main dining room, you can order as much as your heart desires. Yep, that means that a second appetizer or sharing a second entree is totally on the menu, and guess what? It’s all included in the cruise fare!

Imagine it’s lobster night – why not turn it into a surf and turf extravaganza? Order that juicy prime rib alongside your lobster tail. You’re on vacation, after all!

Now, no one’s suggesting you go overboard (pun intended) and waste food. Cruise portions are typically just right, so it’s easy to indulge a bit and even share with your dining companions if you fancy. So, dive into the culinary delights of the main dining room, and let your taste buds set sail on a flavorful adventure.