Embarking on a cruise is an exciting adventure as I embarked on five different cruise ships in 2024, I must say it wasn't until second or third cruise I learned that the key to a smooth and memorable journey often lies in the little details. Whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, these tips will help you prepare for the perfect vacation at sea.
1. Pack Smart, Not Heavy
Space in cruise cabins can be tight, so pack wisely. Stick to versatile clothing that can be dressed up or down, and remember to bring comfortable shoes for exploring ports. Dont forget essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and a light jacket for cooler evenings. If your going on a longer cruise, consider packing small laundry detergent pods for washing essentials mid-trip. Packing lightly is crucial and unfortunately I learned the hard way, we had packed so much that the suitcases were over 50lbs at the airport and required a heavty additional charge in order to be checked in for the flight. On this particular vacation I had embarked on two cruises and in the middle of the vacation in Fort Lauderdale had to mail home clothes we weren't wearing in order to have more space on the next cruise ship. Do not over pack!! Make sure your carry on bag has your bathing suit and a change of clothing, this way if your suitcases don't show up until the late evening at your state door you can still enjoy all the amenities the cruise has to offer.
2. Arrive Early and / or Stay Longer!
Arriving a day or two before departure can ease the stress of travel delays, especially if your flying to your port of embarkation. Whether your cruising out of Miami or Fort Lauderdale both cities have so much to offer and experience. You'll have extra time to explore the city and get acclimated. Plus, cruise check in lines can be long yet the process is fairly quick. so giving yourself ample time to board will ensure a relaxed start to your trip. Everytime I cruised I made sure I got to the city I embarked from a day early, and when I returned from the cruise I would stay an additional night for relaxation.
3. Set Your Watch to Ship Time
One of the most common mistakes cruisers make is forgetting to adjust to ship time. The ships schedule runs on its own time zone, so always check the daily itinerary to ensure your in sync with onboard activities, excursions, and meal times.
4. Plan Your Shore Excursions Ahead of Time
Popular shore excursions can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Book your shore excursions in advance, either through the cruise line or trusted third-party providers, such as " Shore Excursions" so you don't miss out. It's also a good idea to research the port ahead of time to see what interests you and if any tours are better booked directly with local operators for a more personalized experience and half the cost.
5. Don't Forget the Essentials
It may seem obvious, but packing a few overlooked items can make all the difference. Bring a power strip (many cabins only have a few outlets), a refillable water bottle, a lanyard for your cruise key card, and motion sickness remedies just in case.
6. Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen
Long days in the sun, especially at sea or on excursions, can quickly lead to dehydration or sunburn, bad sunburns with blisters! Drink plenty of water throughout the day and reapply sunscreen every few hours, even if it's cloudy. Your skin (and your body) will thank you!
7. Budget for Gratuities and Onboard Spending
While many cruise packages include meals and entertainment, gratuities, drinks, specialty dining, and excursions often are not included. Set aside a budget for these additional expenses and consider pre-paying for gratuities, so you are not caught off guard during the trip when you get the final bill as most gratuities are about $17- $25 per day.
8. Embrace the Ships Activities
Cruises offer a wide range of activities, from onboard shows and theme nights to fitness classes and cooking demonstrations. Take advantage of everything your ship has to offer! Not everyone will enjoy all the activities a ship has to offer, however, these activities can make your cruise experience feel more like a vacation within a vacation. After all being on a cruise ship feels as though you are on a floating city!
9. Be Flexible with Your Expectations
Weather, seasickness, or unexpected itinerary changes can sometimes disrupt the perfect trip. I know this has happened to me as I was suppose to be going to Santorini, Greece in July of 2025, however, it has changed to another popular Greece Island, Mykonos, Greece because of the high crowds in the month of July in Santorini. I wasn't thrilled about the itinerary change but it does happen when you book a cruise for reasons especially due to weather. Just Stay flexible, go with the flow, and remember that your cruise experience is about enjoying the journey and the destination. You need to remember that Cruise lines can and do change their itineraries at any time. It is written in the terms and conditions of your cruise contract that are allowed to do this, This is not something you can be refunded for nor does it happen often.
10. Disconnect (If You Can!!)
OK this is a difficult one as I am not one to give advice on but it is recommended by many travelers: A lot of travelers feel that Cruises are a great opportunity to disconnect from the stress of daily life. So I guess consider limiting your screen time and enjoy being present. Of course, if you need to stay connected, most ships offer Wi-Fi (though it can be pricey averaging about $25 / per day). But, if possible, embrace the chance to unplug and enjoy the adventure without distractions or limit the use of social media and enjoy your journey! Lol!
Embarking on a cruise is like stepping into a floating city, where every day brings new adventures, entertainment, and unforgettable views. By following these travel tips, you will be well equipped to navigate the excitement, embrace the onboard activities, and make the most of your time both at sea and in port. Remember, cruises offer more than just a way to get from one place to another, they are an immersive experience that combines relaxation with discovery. So, pack smart, plan ahead, and, most importantly, take time to savor the journey. With a little preparation, you'll have the best time on your cruise, creating memories that will last long after you have disembarked. Bon voyage, and enjoy the beautiful ocean water and every wave!
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