7 years on cruise ships. 10 tips for first-time flyers


I’ve worked on eight ships and have addressed my fair share of first-time cruisers’ inquiries.
Perform research beforehand to determine which amenities are included in your base fare.
Using the daily planner, take advantage of the onboard entertainment and eating opportunities.
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After working on cruise ships for over seven years, I have accumulated a number of travel hacks to assist guests maximize their trips.

Here are some things first-time cruisers should know before embarking on their maiden voyage.

Determine what is and is not included with your base fare.

Typically, access to the main dining area is included.

It is a widespread misperception that cruises are all-inclusive; therefore, you should investigate which meal, beverage, and entertainment options on your ship are complimentary.

On the other side, I’ve discovered that many passengers mistakenly believe that numerous things, such as dining in the main dining area, are extra.

The key to your room is actually your lifeline

When asked what they carry at all times, the majority of experienced cruisers will likely say their sailing card.

This multipurpose card acts as your ID, room key, credit card, and ticket on and off the ship. Purchase a lanyard or a pouch of some sort to make it easier to keep track of.

Anticipate participating in a safety drill on day one.

Participation in a muster drill is required by maritime law, similar to how airlines do safety briefings before to takeoff.

Ships must require passengers to visit their muster station (the location to go in an emergency) and observe a safety demonstration before leaving port.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of these drills have become more digital and efficient, as well as less crowded.

There may be a fee if your pool towels are not returned.

Make care to return your towels at the designated stations.

On most lines, pool towels are checked out by scanning your sailing card. However, if they are not returned by the end of the voyage, there is often a cost.

Many customers leave their soiled towels on a pool chair and then forget about them. To avoid this fee, drop them off or exchange them for new, dry towels at towel stations located throughout the ship.

Gratuities are instantly added to your account.

On most airlines, automatic gratuities are applied to your account and distributed to your food, beverage, and cleaning staff.

However, most customers are unaware that this can be altered by visiting the front desk. You can change the amount or remove the gratuity charge altogether if you’d prefer to tip your crew individually.

Remember that the crew works diligently to make your time on board enjoyable and that this is their source of income.

There are more possibilities for amusement than you may realize.

Many cruise ships feature stunning entertainment stages.

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I’ve discovered that many first-time cruisers are unaware of the day-and-night entertainment program organized by the cruise director and their team.

There is always something for everyone, including theme nights, trivia, karaoke, game shows, dance, and art courses.

The daily cruise planner is an invaluable tool.

Each evening, you will receive a printed cruise planner with the following day’s itinerary, as well as other valuable information such as discounts, meals, port times, and the weather.

This is an incredible tool for navigating daily chores. In addition, many cruise lines offer digital versions on their apps.

Determine in advance what you will wear.

One of the most often asked questions by first-time cruisers is what they should bring.

There are other factors to consider, such as the local climate, dinner dress regulations, and themed nights. However, the majority of this information is available on the cruise line’s website.

Also, many attendees believe that the specified dress rules are mandatory, despite the fact that they are often voluntary.

Excursions ashore can help first-timers become acquainted with the ports.

Kayaking is a popular adventure.

Laura Pl/Shutterstock

If it’s your first time visiting a port, ship-sponsored shore excursions are one of the greatest ways to get to know the place. They are excellent for getting a feel for the area, having fun, and learning about the place.

The most crucial advantage of booking through the cruise line is the assurance that the ship will not leave you behind if your trip goes late. This cannot be guaranteed for excursions booked outside of the cruise line.

There is food everywhere, and you may often order as much as you want in the main dining room.

From buffets to the main dining room, there are numerous dining options on board.

Many first-time cruisers are surprised that they can typically order as much food as they want in the main dining room at no additional cost. You may order four appetizers, three main dishes, and unlimited desserts. I once seen a guest consume ten lobster tails.

Don’t be hesitant to test out everything that appears delicious.

Click to read more of my traveling advice and tales from aboard ship.


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