Six Essential Rules for Cruise Passengers: Expert Tips for a Smooth Voyage

In a recent video on the Tips for Travellers YouTube channel, cruise expert Gary Bembridge shared six important rules for passengers heading out on cruises, derived from his conversations with cruise crew members.

Key Issues

One of the main frustrations for crew members is the behavior of "pool deck chair hogs." These passengers reserve loungers at prime locations on the pool deck only to leave for hours, leaving the crew in a difficult position. Although cruise lines typically have rules about removing unattended items, the crew often faces complaints from disgruntled passengers when their belongings are cleared.

Other problematic behaviors include disregarding the onboard dress code and parents not supervising their children, which can lead to further tensions with the staff.

Hygiene Matters

Bembridge emphasized the importance of good hygiene practices among passengers, particularly hand washing, to prevent the spread of viruses onboard. An outbreak can lead to increased workloads for crew members, who may have to undertake additional cleaning tasks and provide extra room service for isolated passengers.

Gratuity Understanding

Another point of confusion among passengers is the understanding of gratuities. Bembridge explained that many cruise lines include gratuities in the form of "crew service charges" or similar fees, and removing these gratuities is often misinterpreted. This misunderstanding can frustrate crew members, as these charges are intended to ensure fair compensation for their service.

Timing is Key

Punctuality is also a common concern, as late arrivals for scheduled activities can disrupt the crew’s carefully organized schedules. Bembridge highlighted that being on time is essential for the crew to effectively do their jobs.

Complaint Resolution

Moreover, Bembridge noted the crew’s frustration when passengers bypass them with complaints, opting to take issues directly to a supervisor instead. This not only undermines the crew’s ability to resolve problems quickly but can also lead to disciplinary actions against them.

Language Barriers

Lastly, he reminded cruisers to be mindful of language barriers, as many crew members come from non-English speaking countries. Understanding a variety of accents can be a significant challenge for crew members, further complicating communication.

By adhering to these guidelines, passengers can enhance their cruise experience while making life easier for the dedicated crew members.

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