Are you thinking of going on your very first cruise? Interested in seeing what it’s like to be aboard a ship and traveling to exotic destinations around the world? Going on a cruise is a wonderful experience that everyone should try at least once. Very different from any other means of vacationing, you’ll want to take heed to the advice below to avoid any complications.
Get to the Port City a Day Before Your Departure
When planning your first cruise, try to arrange an overnight stay in the city where the ship port is located a day before you’re scheduled to leave. You simply never know what could happen that could cause you to miss the departure. Should your flight be delayed, for example, you could end up left behind. Getting there early ensures that you have ample time to get to the ship and even get to your cabin before too many passengers start showing up.
Pack a Smart Carry-On
Here’s what many first-timers don’t realize about going on a cruise. After checking in your luggage, it could take several hours before it actually arrives at your cabin. Unless you want to sit and wait to start exploring you should pack a smart carry-on. Having things like your swimwear, travel-sized cosmetics, and other essentials on-hand means that you can change your clothes and start enjoying the fun.
Know the Alcohol Policy
There are guidelines when it comes to bringing alcohol onboard the cruise ship. Every cruise line varies so you want to figure out what it is in advance. You don’t want to end up being flagged by the scanners for having too much booze in your luggage. This could result in them confiscating it which is obviously a waste of money. If you are going to bring alcohol on your cruise, make sure you also have a hangover prevention pill so you don’t end up feeling sick after a night of partying and drinking.
Know the Dress Code
If you plan on attending events or visiting certain restaurants during your cruise there could be an imposed dress code. You don’t want to pack nothing but swimsuits to find out that you need an evening gown or sundress to enjoy your first cruise.
Pack for Off-Board Activities
The great thing about going on a cruise is that you’re not stuck on the ship the entire time. The ships stop at various ports along the way to allow passengers to stretch and explore. Many cruise lines even offer excursions and sponsored activities you can try. You might be able to get paddle board paddles and learn how to ride the waves or take a hike through a nearby park or scenic sight. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure you have packed the appropriate attire which could include water suits, sandals, socks, and running shoes.
Have a Lot of Fun
The final tip to making the most of your first cruise is to have a good time. Get outside of your cabin and partake in the many activities they have to offer. Mingle with other passengers, attend popular events, and tour the entire ship to see what you can get into. When you arrive at your destination, plan other fun activities on land that include exploring local culture and adventure. You’re on vacation coasting across the beautiful ocean, you might as well experience all you can.
Cruises really are a lot of fun to go on. Yet there are several differences to planning for such an excursion. If this is your first time going on a cruise, you’ll want to make sure that you’ve remembered all of the advice provided above. As long as you do, you’ll be able to enjoy yourself and get the best out of your trip.