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THE ULTIMATE CRUISE GUIDE: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE SETTING SAIL

Writer: The Family Travel Spot
The Family Travel Spot
Sep 14
20 min read

Updated: Sep 15




THE ULTIMATE CRUISE GUIDE: 10+ ESSENTIAL TIPS BEFORE YOU SET SAIL


Before You Set Foot on That Cruise Ship: What You Need to Know. In this guide, we're sharing our top cruise tips, expert advice, and the biggest mistakes to avoid so you can board with confidence and make the most of every moment at sea. Ahoy, future cruiser!


A family toasting at sail away on a cruise ship departing from Manhattan in New York City
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot - Sail Away Toast - NYC Harbor

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BEFORE YOU BOARD: ESSENTIAL CRUISE TIPS FOR SMOOTH SAILING


Ocean views, unlimited food, endless fun, sunsets at sea... and espresso martinis? Say no more. Where do we sign up?!


If it’s your first cruise, you’re in for an unforgettable vacation! But before you set sail, we are going to drop the anchor for a moment and share a few things you need to know.


Cruising is one of our family’s favorite ways to travel, but it’s unlike any other type of vacation. From navigating the ship to avoiding common mistakes, there are a few things that can make or break your cruise experience. So, we’re sharing all our sailing secrets to help make your first cruise a treasure-filled adventure—not a shipwreck.


Okay, enough with the puns—let’s get down to business. After countless hours of research for our own cruises, firsthand experiences, and feedback from seasoned cruisers, We’ve compiled a list of the most essential things every first-time cruiser should know before stepping aboard.


What you can expect from this post:

Things to know before you set sail

  • 🚢 Choosing the Right Cruise Ship & Itinerary

  • 🗺️ Planning Ports, Excursions & Sea Days

  • 📱 Cruise Apps & Reservations

  • 🧳 What to Pack & Cruise Cabin Essentials

  • 🍽️ Dining, Drinks & Additional Purchases

  • 🛳️ Embarkation & Debarkation Tips

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kids, Teens & Onboard Activities

  • 💰 Payments, Tipping & Your Final Bill

  • 🤢 Motion Sickness & Other Things to Know Before You Go


Cruising Essentials:

Our go-to cruise must-haves

🏷️ Cruise Luggage Tag Holders

🔌 Cruise-Friendly Charging Hub (verify compatibility with specific cruise lines)

👕 Towel Bands or Towel Clips (Pool and Beach Chairs)

🧥 Lightweight Layers



READY TO SET SAIL LIKE A VETERAN CRUISER? ANCHORS AWEIGH!


First-time cruise tips guide with cruise ship at sea, featuring essential planning advice for a first cruise
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot



⚓ NOTE ONE: RESEARCH YOUR CRUISE SHIP - NOT JUST THE CRUISE LINE BEFORE YOU BOOK


Before you BOOK with a travel agent, have at least a general idea of the itinerary and the type of cruise ship you want. Depending on where you’re traveling, you may need to prioritize one over the other—and set realistic expectations for what your cruise will actually be like.


For example, Alaska and Mediterranean cruises are very port-focused. You’ll spend a lot of time docked and exploring your destinations, which means you may spend less time enjoying the ship itself. In this case, the itinerary and ports of call might be your biggest priority.


On the other hand, Caribbean and transatlantic sailings can have quite a few sea days. If you’re going to spend several days onboard, the ship may matter MUCH more to your family. And sometimes, the answer is somewhere in the middle—a great itinerary paired with a ship that has the amenities and activities your family actually wants.


This is especially important because there can be a BIG difference between older and newer ships within the same cruise line. For example, if you’re booking Royal Caribbean because your family wants all the thrills and activities you’ve seen on an Oasis or Icon Class ship, you could be in for a BIG disappointment if you accidentally book a Vision Class ship simply because you love the itinerary.


And this isn’t just a Royal Caribbean thing. Many cruise lines have significant differences between their older and newer ships. Don’t assume that because you love a cruise line, you’ll automatically love every ship in its fleet.


Sometimes a little compromise is the key to finding your perfect cruise. Maybe that means choosing a slightly different itinerary to get the ship you really want, or picking an older ship because the ports are exactly where your family wants to go.


Our advice? Know what you’re booking! 


Before you put down that deposit, talk through the itinerary, ship, sea days, ports, and onboard amenities with a knowledgeable travel agent. Get their feedback and make sure the cruise you’re booking actually matches the vacation you have pictured in your head.


Because the last thing you want is to step onboard and realize, “Wait…this isn't the cruise I thought I booked!” 😬




⚓ NOTE TWO: DOWNLOAD AND SET UP THE APP AFTER BOOKING


Once you’re booked and have all your reservation information, download your cruise line’s app and get it set up ASAP. Trust us—you’ll be using it A LOT!


For most cruise lines, the app is basically your cruise command center. This is where you’ll find important booking information, plan your days, book excursions, make dining reservations, reserve activities and events, complete check-in, and keep track of what’s happening onboard.


Your cruise ship's daily event schedule will be located on the app. Check it each morning so you know what's happening around the ship that day. The daily event schedule will have things like trivia and pool activities to live entertainment, free raffles and cocktail tastings, kids' and teen activities, games, shows, and other events you won't want to miss. We like to take a quick look and mark anything our family is interested in so we can plan our day without feeling like we're constantly running around trying to figure out what's happening next.


And we have to say it: the early bird gets the worm! Some excursions, dining times, and daily onboard activities can fill up quickly, and booking early can sometimes save you money (especially on excursions)! Don’t wait until you’re packing your suitcase to start planning.


This is also a great time to sign up for your cruise line’s loyalty program if you haven’t already. Some cruise lines offer perks just for being a member, and others may even offer status matching from another cruise line. MSC, for example, has a status-match program, so it’s absolutely worth checking before you sail.


Bottom line: Booked? Download the app. Join the loyalty program. Start planning. Your future cruising self will thank you!



Scenic view from a cruise ship overlooking a beautiful tropical island and surrounding blue Caribbean waters.
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot - Private Island Dock

⚓ NOTE THREE: RESEARCH YOUR ITINERARY & PLAN YOUR EXCURSIONS BEFORE YOU BOARD


So, you booked your cruise. Now all you have to do is show up, right?


Wrong! 😂


You’ll hear this a lot here at The Family Travel Spot: we believe you get out of your vacation what you put into it. A successful cruise is no different from any other vacation—a little planning can go a LONG way. Yes, you can absolutely show up with no plans and figure it out as you go, but be prepared for some disappointment, sold-out activities, and unnecessary headaches that can come with that approach.


Take some time to research your ports of call before you sail. Look at what each destination has to offer, talk with your family about what they’d actually enjoy doing, and then book your excursions sooner rather than later.


Popular excursions can sell out, and depending on the cruise line and excursion, prices may increase as your sailing date gets closer. Waiting until you’re onboard can also mean fewer options, less desirable times, and yes… lines. Nobody wants to spend the first day of their cruise standing in line trying to book something they could have taken care of from the couch at home.

BUT—there is a caveat! Some cruise lines and activities won’t allow you to make certain reservations until you’re onboard. So, get EVERYTHING you can booked and taken care of before you board. For anything that has to be booked once you’re onboard, make it a priority and take care of it as soon as you can.


Our approach is simple: do the work BEFORE the cruise so you can relax DURING the cruise.

Research the ports. Pick your excursions. Make your reservations. Get the planning out of the way.

Then, when you finally step onboard, there’s nothing left to do but start your vacation. Go get that cocktail, put your feet up, soak in the view, and enjoy the ride.




⚓ NOTE FOUR: KNOW WHAT’S INCLUDED, WHAT COSTS EXTRA & WHAT TO BOOK AHEAD


Before you get too excited about that cruise fare, take a few minutes to understand exactly what you’re paying for—and what you’re not. This is one of those things that can make a BIG difference when comparing cruise lines, ships, and inclusive vs. add-on options.


Your cruise fare will typically cover the basics like your stateroom, main dining, many onboard activities and entertainment, and access to the ship’s pools and other public areas. Once you start adding specialty restaurants, drink packages, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, premium activities, or other extras, your vacation total can climb quickly. And here's the tricky part: what's included varies by cruise line, ship, and even the package you book. 


This is also where those cruise-line apps we mentioned earlier come in handy. Take a look at the available add-ons BEFORE you board. If you know you want Wi-Fi, a drink package, specialty dining, an excursion, or another extra, check the price ahead of time. Some cruise lines offer pre-cruise pricing or discounts, or specials on booking a bundle.


We also recommend doing a little math before automatically purchasing a package. Just because a drink package or dining package is available when booking doesn't always mean it's a good deal for your family. Think about what you’ll actually use/consume and compare the package price with what you would spend paying à la carte. Taxes, gratuities, port fees, and other charges can also affect the final cost of your cruise, depending on the cruise line and what you purchase.


Know what you’re getting before you get onboard. Make a list of the things your family considers “must-haves” and decide ahead of time what you’re willing to pay extra for. That way, you can budget accordingly and spend your vacation enjoying the ship instead of constantly wondering, “Is this included?” 😆


A little homework before you sail can save you money, prevent surprises, and help you get the most out of your cruise fare. 


Beautiful tropical island surrounded by clear blue water, viewed from a cruise ship during a family cruise vacation.
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot - Port Views

⚓ NOTE FIVE: ARRIVE AT YOUR DEPARTURE PORT THE DAY BEFORE & BOOK THE EARLIEST BOARDING TIME POSSIBLE


First things first: know your boarding time and plan accordingly. And please, please, PLEASE—arrive at your departure port at least the day before your cruise. Flights get delayed, traffic happens, luggage gets lost, and things rarely go exactly according to plan. Your cruise ship, however, is on a schedule and will not wait for you!


Whenever possible, we recommend booking the earliest boarding time you can get. Why? Because you can beat some of the crowds, get those must-do tasks out of the way, grab some food, and start enjoying the ship while everyone else is still making their way onboard.


If you can, take care of things like your muster drill, activity sign-ups, dining reservations, and anything else that needs to be done onboard as early as possible. The first day can feel a little overwhelming and chaotic as thousands of people are boarding, finding their rooms, figuring out where everything is, and getting their bearings. Be patient—it doesn't last! Once everyone settles in, the whole ship starts to feel much more relaxed.


  • 🧳 PACK A BOARDING DAY CARRY-ON

    One of our biggest boarding-day recommendations is to pack a carry-on with everything you might need for the first several hours of your cruise. Your checked luggage will be delivered to your stateroom, but there’s no guarantee it will arrive right away. Sometimes your bags don't show up until later in the afternoon or even into the evening.

Pack things like:

  • 👙 Swimsuit and cover-up

  • 👕 Change of clothes

  • 👟 Comfortable shoes

  • 💊 Medications

  • 🧴 Sunscreen

  • 🕶️ Sunglasses

  • 🔌 Important electronics/chargers

  • 📄 Any important travel documents

  • 🍽️ Anything you’ll need for the first few hours onboard


And remember, your room may be ready before your luggage arrives. Once your stateroom is available, you can drop off your carry-on and start enjoying the ship without dragging everything around with you.


  • 🍴 KNOW WHERE TO GET FOOD

    Don't assume the buffet is your only option for lunch! Know what complimentary food options are available on your particular ship before you board. The buffet can get CRAZY busy during those first few hours, so knowing where else you can grab a bite and avoid crowds can be a game changer.


  • 🍷 AND YES, THINK ABOUT THE WINE!

    If your cruise line allows you to bring wine onboard, know the rules before you arrive—and think about how you're going to carry it. Don't get to the port with your allowed bottle of wine and realize you have no idea where to put it! Check your cruise line's current beverage policy before sailing because rules and allowances can vary.


  • 📋 HAVE A BOARDING-DAY GAME PLAN

    Finally, have a loose plan for those first few hours. You don't need a minute-by-minute itinerary, but knowing what needs to get done can make boarding day SO much smoother.

    Have your boarding passes, passports, identification, and other required travel documents easily accessible. Your travel agent can also help you double-check exactly what you'll need for your particular sailing.


Our goal is always this: get the must-do stuff done early, find some food, explore the ship, and start relaxing! Because once you walk onboard, the vacation has officially begun. The ship is yours—go enjoy it! 🛳️🍹




⚓ NOTE SIX: PUT YOUR PHONE IN AIRPLANE MODE WHEN BOARDING


This one is IMPORTANT! The second you board the ship, we recommend putting your phone in airplane mode and leaving it there unless you know exactly what your cell plan covers at sea. (Make sure your kids do too!)


Why? Once you leave the shore, your phone may connect to the ship’s maritime cellular network instead of your regular land-based cell service. And those connections can come with VERY expensive roaming or maritime charges. You don't want to come home from your relaxing cruise to a cell phone bill that makes you want to walk the plank! 🏴‍☠️


If you want to use your phone onboard, you can typically turn Wi-Fi back on while keeping airplane mode enabled. Then you can connect to the ship's Wi-Fi if you've purchased a package or use any complimentary Wi-Fi the cruise line provides. You can also use messaging apps over Wi-Fi to stay in touch with family and friends.


Before you sail, check your cell phone carrier's cruise and international coverage, too. Don't assume that because you have unlimited data at home, you're covered at sea. Cruise-line cellular service and roaming rules can be completely different from what you're used to on land. And remember—being in port doesn't always mean you're automatically back on your normal cell network. Depending on where you are and your carrier, international roaming charges may apply once you're ashore.


✈️ Airplane mode on. Vacation mode activated. Unexpected roaming charges? Nope!



Morning view from a cruise ship overlooking the ocean wake as the ship sails across calm blue water.
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot - Peaceful Morning Views

⚓ NOTE SEVEN: MAKE YOUR DINING RESERVATIONS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE


If there are specialty restaurants, popular dining experiences, or specific dinner times you know your family wants, make your reservations as soon as possible.


Just like excursions, the popular spots and best dining times can fill up quickly. If your cruise line allows you to make dining reservations before sailing, do it as soon as your booking window opens. This is especially important if you have a larger family, want to eat at a particular time, or have your heart set on one of the ship’s more popular restaurants.


And remember, not every dining experience is included in your cruise fare. Some specialty restaurants come with an additional charge, while others may be included depending on your cruise line, ship, or fare. Take a look at your options ahead of time, decide what is worth the splurge for your family, and budget accordingly.


For main dining, your cruise line may assign you a dining time, allow you to choose one, or offer flexible dining depending on the ship and sailing. Know how your particular cruise handles dining before you board so you aren't surprised.


One of the best things about cruising is the food and we encourage you to indulge!




⚓ NOTE EIGHT: CHECK OUT THE KIDS' & TEEN CLUBS THE FIRST DAY—AND KNOW THE RESERVATION RULES


If you're cruising with kids or teens, don't overlook the kids' and teen clubs! These spaces can be one of the best parts of a family cruise. Kids get to meet other cruisers their age, play games, hang out, and take part in activities designed specifically for them—while Mom and Dad get a little time to relax, grab a drink, enjoy a specialty restaurant, or simply sit somewhere quiet for five minutes. 😂


Before your cruise, take a look at what your particular ship offers and find out how the kids' and teen clubs handle reservations or registration. Some cruise lines allow you to register your kids ahead of time through the app, while others require you to complete registration once you're onboard. Some activities may require reservations, have limited space, or operate on a first-come, first-served basis.


And here's a BIG tip: don't wait until the last night to check them out! If registration is required onboard, make it one of the things you take care of early. Take the kids or teens to see the space, meet the staff, and find out what activities are planned during your sailing. They may be much more excited to go once they know what to expect.


Also, don't assume that because your kids are siblings, they'll necessarily be in the same area. Kids' clubs are usually divided by age groups, and teen spaces are often separate from younger children's areas. Check the age ranges and rules before you sail so everyone knows where they'll be hanging out.


And parents, here's your permission slip to actually use the kids' club. 😉 You booked a family vacation, but that doesn't mean you all have to spend every single minute together. Let the kids have some fun with their new cruise friends while you enjoy a little adult time.




Child watching a beautiful sunset over the ocean from the deck of a cruise ship.
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot - Sunsets At Sea

⚓ NOTE NINE: KEEP YOUR CABIN SHIPSHAPE: ORGANIZATION HACKS, CONNECTING ROOMS & GET TO KNOW YOUR CABIN, STEWARD


Your cruise cabin may look perfectly spacious when you first walk in, but once you add your family, suitcases, shoes, swimsuits, backpacks, toiletries, and approximately 47 things nobody remembers bringing, things can get crowded FAST. 😂


Stay organized from day one. Don't live out of your suitcase all week if you can help it. Unpack what you can, tuck your suitcases under the bed, and give everything a home. You'll be amazed at how much better a small cabin feels when you're not constantly stepping over everyone's stuff.


  • 🧳 A FEW CABIN ORGANIZATION HACKS

    Use the space you have! Cruise cabins are designed with storage in mind, but you may have to get creative.

    • Pack magnetic hooks. Many cruise cabin walls are metal, making strong magnetic hooks incredibly handy for hats, lanyards, bags, swimsuits, and other lightweight items. Just check your cruise line's current guidelines before packing them. The hooks are also great for drying wet clothes.

    • Use packing cubes. We LOVE these for keeping everyone's clothing organized and making it easy to grab what you need without completely destroying your suitcase.

    • Bring a small laundry bag. Give dirty clothes somewhere to go instead of letting them take over the bathroom floor.

    • Use the bathroom storage wisely. Everyone's toiletries can quickly become a countertop explosion, so give each person a designated spot. We love hanging toiletry bags!

    • Keep your daily essentials together. Sunscreen, sunglasses, room cards, lanyards, and other things you reach for constantly should have a home near the door.


  • 🌊 CONSIDER CONNECTING CABINS

    • Cruising with kids or teens? Look into connecting cabins! Depending on the ship and sailing, booking two connecting rooms can give your family MUCH more space and privacy without costing nearly as much as you might think compared to booking one larger cabin. Remember, cruises typically charge per person, not per room. So, depending on the cruise line and the cabins you choose, the bottom line for putting two people in each connecting cabin may not be significantly more than putting four people in one room. You’ll also have separate sleeping areas and bathrooms, while still having a connecting door so everyone is close by. It’s definitely worth looking into! Just ask your travel agent!


  • 🧹 GET TO KNOW YOUR CABIN STEWARD

    And then there's your cabin steward—the person who helps keep your little home away from home in perfect condition. Introduce yourself! Learn their name, let them know if your family has any specific needs, and treat them like the important part of your vacation team that they are. They are there to help make your stay comfortable, but they're also taking care of many other cabins, so a little kindness and respect goes a LONG way. If you have a particular preference—extra towels, ice, a certain time you'd prefer your room serviced, or anything else—ask! Your steward may be able to accommodate reasonable requests. We also recommend communicating early if something isn't right. If you need something or have a concern with your cabin, don't wait until the end of the cruise to mention it. Give your steward the opportunity to help. And yes, tip appropriately according to your cruise line's current gratuity policy. Many cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your account, while others have different systems. You can always check with your cruise line or travel agent if you're unsure. At the end of the day, your cabin steward can become one of those people who quietly make your vacation better. A clean room, fresh towels, a neatly made bed, and a little towel animal waiting for the kids can feel like such a treat after a busy day exploring the ship or a port.




⚓ NOTE TEN: A FEW MORE CABIN TIPS YOU’LL WANT TO KNOW


A few more little cabin tricks that can make your cruise MUCH more comfortable—and may save you from learning them the hard way! 😂

  • 🚪 Don’t leave your balcony door open. It may sound lovely to leave the door cracked while you’re relaxing in your cabin, but on many ships, this can create a serious wind tunnel. Open the balcony door, and you may suddenly have air rushing through the cabin, slamming the interior door which can hurt someone. Enjoy that ocean breeze when you’re actually out on the balcony, but keep the door closed when you're inside.

  • 🩱 Please don't hang wet towels or clothes over your balcony. We know—you get out of the pool, have a soaking-wet swimsuit, and the balcony seems like the perfect place to dry it. But don't do it! Besides potentially violating your cruise line's rules, items can blow away and become a hazard for other passengers and the ship. Use the designated drying areas in your cabin or bathroom instead. (or metal hooks)

  • 👀 Remember: your cabin window isn't always as private as you think. Especially when you're docked in port, other ships, crew areas, or buildings may be surprisingly close to your window or balcony. Yes, people on another ship can potentially see into your cabin. So before you change clothes, start doing your morning routine, or walk around in your pajamas, take a quick look outside first! 😂 When in doubt, close the curtains.

  • Don't forget the door magnets! Cruise cabin doors can all start looking the same, so a fun magnet makes your room MUCH easier to spot when you're wandering the halls.



Scenic view of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island destination, surrounded by turquoise Caribbean water.
Photo Credit: The Family Travel Spot - Private Island Day

⚓ NOTE ELEVEN: COMBATING MOTION SICKNESS


Ah, the dreaded motion sickness… This is one of the questions we hear ALL the time from people who have never cruised: “But what if I get seasick?”


If you or someone in your family is prone to motion sickness, please don’t let that keep you from cruising! There are plenty of ways to help manage seasickness, and we know this firsthand. We have a kiddo who is extremely prone to motion sickness, so we’ve learned a few tricks along the way that can make a BIG difference.


There are a few things you can do to help keep motion sickness at bay. Dramamine (regular or non-drowsy), motion-sickness patches, and acupressure wristbands are all options worth considering. Since we have a kiddo who is VERY prone to motion sickness, we don’t mess around with this one! If we’re using Dramamine, we start it the night before we sail rather than waiting until someone starts feeling sick. If you’re considering Dramamine or a motion-sickness patch, check with your doctor about what’s best for you and follow the directions for timing and dosing. And if you’re supposed to take it consistently, don’t skip doses!


Where you stay on the ship can make a difference, too. If possible, we recommend booking your room as close to the middle of the ship as you can (ask about this when booking). This is where you’ll typically feel less movement. If your budget allows, we also love a balcony room where you can see the horizon. Being able to get some fresh air and look out at the sea is extremely helpful.


And take our advice—don’t underestimate the simple things! Ginger ale, green tea, and even green apples are favorites in our family and are definitely worth having on hand when someone starts feeling queasy. If you're cruising with kids, pack a few disposable vomit bags. We hope you won't need them—but if you do, you'll be VERY glad you tossed a few in your day bag. Consider it one of those cruise essentials you hope stays completely unused!


Most importantly, don’t let motion sickness scare you away from booking a cruise! It’s manageable, especially when you know it might be an issue and have a plan in place. Our biggest piece of advice? Be proactive, come prepared, and don’t let the fear of getting seasick keep you from experiencing an amazing adventure at sea!




⚓ NOTE TWELVE: OTHER THINGS TO KNOW


And finally, a few more little cruise tips that can make a BIG difference!


  • Bring some cash. Have small bills for luggage handlers, tipping, local vendors, and quick purchases when you're off the ship.

  • Check your final bill before leaving the ship. Review your onboard charges so there are no surprises after you get home.

  • Watch YouTube videos for your specific ship and itinerary. Seeing the ship, cabins, restaurants, and ports ahead of time can give you a great feel for what to expect.

  • Make your cruise packing list BEFORE you start packing. Think through everything you'll need for the ship, ports, excursions, formal nights, pool time, and getting home.

  • Know your disembarkation options. Find out whether your ship offers self-assist or traditional luggage disembarkation. If you're carrying your own luggage off, you'll want everything packed and manageable. And just like embarkation day, keep your travel-home outfit, medications, documents, and other essentials in your carry-on.

  • Check for onboard specials. Some paid amenities may offer discounts—or even be complimentary—on port days when demand is lower. Check your cruise app for deals and availability.

  • Find out about room service. Some cruises offer complimentary room service or have certain items available at no additional charge. Know what's included and how to order before you sail.

  • Print your luggage tags ahead of time. Many cruise lines let you print them at home, and having them ready before you arrive makes embarkation SO much easier.

  • Be ready to pivot. Weather can change plans, excursions can be modified, and itineraries can shift. Pack layers—even Caribbean evenings can get surprisingly cool—and go with the flow!

  • Ask your cabin steward about laundry specials. Some ships offer mid-cruise laundry deals, so it's worth asking if you need to freshen up everyone's clothes.

  • Know your port times. Pay attention to when you need to be OFF the ship and, even more importantly, when you need to be BACK onboard. Don't be a runner! 😂

  • Pack your patience on day one. Guest services and elevators can be CRAZY busy when everyone first boards. If possible, visit guest services at a quieter time and learn where the different elevator banks are located.

  • Know how you'll pay onboard. Some cruise lines use your room key card, while others use a wearable device or medallion. If you're using a card, a lanyard can be a lifesaver!

  • Understand gratuities and your onboard spending. Know what's included, what's extra, and how gratuities work before you sail. Keep an eye on your onboard account throughout the cruise so there are NO SURPRISES!

  • Don't leave food trays in the hallway. Follow your ship's room-service instructions and keep trays where your cabin steward can properly collect them. And if your steward goes above and beyond all week, consider giving them an additional tip.

  • Double-check your travel documents. Check passport expiration dates, required identification, boarding documents, and anything else your particular sailing requires. We also recommend a passport holder and keeping passports, valuables, and other sensitive items secured in your cabin safe when appropriate.

  • Find your sail-away spot! Grab a drink, find a great view, and actually take a minute to soak it all in. You're finally on vacation! 🍹⚓


And one final piece of advice: if something isn't right, just ask! Cruise lines want you to have an amazing experience, and many crew members will go out of their way to help make things right when you speak up.



⚓ NOW GO CRUISE!


And there you have it—your first-time cruiser cheat sheet! Do the work before you sail, then relax once you're onboard. Things may not always go perfectly, and that's okay! Roll with it, soak up the views, eat the dessert, and make the memories.


Now grab that cocktail, find your favorite spot on deck, and get ready to sail away! 🍹⚓🌊


Until our next "Cruise" installment,


Cheers!
Martha

PS - Don't forget to PIN this post so you can find it later! Be sure to check out some of our other posts! Cruised before? Share your favorite tips we may have missed in the comments below. Your advice may help another future cruiser planning their family's next adventure.




family laughing together in fall

Martha is a Family Travel Planner and Travel Blogger who loves creating unforgettable vacation experiences for families. When she’s not traveling or planning incredible getaways, she enjoys living life in beautiful Upstate NY with her husband, two boys, and two dogs.




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