10 Cruise Mistakes to Avoid: Insights from a Seasoned Traveler Across 8 Ships
I still remember my very first cruise and how I had no idea what to expect. I was completely clueless on how to navigate such a huge vessel. Six years later (and eight cruises under my belt), I can confidently say I know a thing or two about setting sail. Whether you prefer Royal Caribbean or Princess, here are 10 things you should never do on a cruise—plus, one thing you must consider to make your vacation worthwhile.
On my second cruise, I made the mistake of not booking any shore excursions. I thought, ‘I can do it on the ship, it’ll be fine.’ But once I stepped on the ship and tried to book my desired activity, I was disappointed to find horseback riding was completely booked for the entire trip. So if you’re looking to do something specific (some whale watching perhaps?), don’t wait until you get on board. As soon as you book your cruise, their website often lets people purchase excursions at least 60 to 90 days in advance. Most cruise lines would also let you know closer to your trip, which ones aren’t available anymore. As for trying out third party vendors, I strongly suggest sticking with the cruise lines since they guarantee you will get back on the ship regardless of any delays.
Sometimes itineraries can change, so don’t be married to just one port on your trip. On the first cruise I booked, I was thrilled that Puerto Rico was on the itinerary. However, a month before boarding the island’s recent hurricanes forced the cruise line to change plans. So my advice is to be prepared for changes since you can’t control the weather.
Some travelers might have differing opinions on this advice, particularly when various cruise companies offer combined flight and cruise packages that include a shuttle service to the port. Nonetheless, I’ve found that arriving a day before the cruise departs ensures peace of mind. This approach provides ample time to board the ship the following day without the worry of missing it due to potential flight delays, traffic issues, or oversleeping. Missing your cruise is the last predicament you’d want to encounter.
This suggestion is equally pertinent for the conclusion of your journey. On the final day of your cruise, consider booking an evening or late afternoon flight. Even though most cruises dock in the morning, you should account for the time required for customs clearance and disembarkation procedures. Despite possibly receiving a designated time slot to leave the ship, unforeseen changes could occur; thus, allowing plenty of time to get to the airport is wise.
Regarding the weather, it’s a good idea to include a light jacket in your luggage. Furthermore, if you plan to ice skate on a Royal Caribbean cruise, remember that long pants are mandatory. Moreover, many ships host specialty restaurants and formal nights; hence your casual beachwear might not be appropriate. Fortunately, I’ve compiled a useful guide on what to wear on a cruise to simplify your packing process.
Interesting tidbit: A ship won’t depart until every passenger has participated in the muster drill, so ensure you’re not the hold-up. Before you even think about attacking the buffet or stepping foot on the ship, it’s crucial to complete the muster drill, which is mandatory. This drill teaches passengers about emergency procedures, including how to correctly wear a life jacket and locate your designated emergency assembly area. While it might appear bothersome, understanding these safety measures is vital in case of an emergency. The drill, which may be conducted by a live presenter or through a video, is brief. You’ll receive guidance on completing this via email or through the cruise line’s app before your journey, allowing you to complete it at your convenience before departure. Tend to this first, and then you can dive into the fun. I once nearly overlooked a muster drill and was reminded by a letter left in my room.
Upon booking your cruise, you will get an email instructing you to select a check-in window and boarding time. I recommend opting for the earliest available time, which lets you hand over your luggage to the crew and start enjoying your holiday sooner. What should you do first on a cruise? Generally, your cabin won’t be ready immediately, providing a perfect opportunity to relax. I prefer to grab a beverage and some snacks near the pool. Since the buffet is usually crowded, finding a spot for a quick pizza slice or burger is ideal to bypass the busy areas.
Packing a change of clothes and a swimsuit in your carry-on is beneficial, allowing you to enjoy the pool shortly after boarding. If the pool area gets too packed, exploring the ship starting from the highest deck is a great alternative. You might not remember each detail (it’s almost impossible by week’s end), but a self-guided tour helps familiarize yourself with the ship’s amenities, dining options, and activity venues.
Look, internet packages are expensive, and even if you have one, high-speed coverage can be unreliable. Unless WiFi is included in your package, I would suggest skipping it and just enjoy the vacation phone-free. It’s nice to unplug and only use your phone for taking photos. However, if you need your Insta fix, some phone companies, like T-Mobile, do work in most ports, but remember, it’s not always reliable during vacation.
My favorite part is returning to my room after a long day and finding a new daily program waiting for me. This comprehensive pamphlet lists everything happening on the ship. You’ll see all the activities (such as trivia and game nights), evening shows, drinks of the day, and even the timings for restaurants and attractions. I always keep this handy to plan my day and ensure I’m visiting all the key spots. If you don’t like carrying paper around all day, most cruise lines offer this information via their app or on screens near the elevators. Let the daily programs guide you to a fun-filled week.
I can’t be the only one fascinated by those viral videos where frantic travelers sprint to their departing cruise ship. To avoid the unfortunate fate of missing your boat and being stranded at a port, it’s wise to head back to the ship at least an hour or even ninety minutes before departure. In short, always allot sufficient time to get back because the ship will leave without you.
While many cruise lines share similar procedures, each offers distinct activities, amenities, and port-of-calls. Having sailed with four different cruise lines, I’ve observed that some cater exceptionally well to families, while others are more suited for adult guests. Despite similar preparations, such as packing or planning to relax by the pool, every cruise line crafts a unique experience, including varied ship layouts, dining options, and onboard events.
Much overlooked are the beverage packages offered on cruises. It’s important not to dismiss this option quickly. Whether you enjoy alcoholic beverages or prefer non-alcoholic options like Coca Cola or chai lattes, seeking an unlimited package that caters to your preferences can enhance your experience. Moreover, it’s crucial to remember that all occupants of a cabin typically must select the same type of beverage package.
Finally, not all amenities are included in every package. Whether you want to relax at the spa, take a fitness class or indulge in premium ice cream, these special amenities are usually not included in your package and will be an extra charge. Overall, do your research and follow these tips and you’ll be a seasoned cruiser in no time.
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