Thinking About a Cruise? There Are 15 Things You Should Know First
1. Cruising is Safer Than You Think
While you might be packing your sunscreen and swimsuits with the faintest worry of ship safety, let’s ease that niggling doubt right away. Yes, fires and ships bumping into things can happen, but let’s put this into perspective: these events are rare.
Every year, millions cruise without a single hiccup, thanks to stringent rules and the eagle eyes of crew members keeping watch. Even the U.S. Coast Guard gives each ship a thumbs-up with quarterly check-ups when they dock.
2. Expect Delays When Leaving the Ship
Leaving the ship brings its own waiting game, but you can make it a breeze with a little planning. Pack a little patience and perhaps even a snack and some water to keep spirits high. Whether you’re the first to step off or the one who enjoys the last lingering moments on board, remember that every minute spent is all part of the grand adventure of cruising.
3. Discover Your Cruise Personality Match
Picking the perfect cruise is like choosing a new hat—you’ve got to find the right fit for your style! Are you the type who loves lounging with a book under the sun, or do you live for the buzz of late-night deck parties? Knowing what floats your boat is key.
4. Deciding on Shore Excursions
When it comes to cruising, the fun doesn’t halt at the ship’s deck; it flows right into the ports! Getting clued up on the onshore adventures early could be a smart move, as those hot-ticket tours might be gone before you blink. Search the web for user reviews, and make sure you’re making choices that’ll amplify the sunshine on your sea days.
5. Navigating Seasickness
Even on the calmest seas, the chance of seasickness can loom like pesky seagulls eyeing your lunch. The good news is, with a little prep, you can tackle it head-on. Cruise lines have clever tech-like stabilizers that make you forget you’re on water, but the sea can sometimes be a show-off with its unexpected moves.
How do you stop the sway from getting to you? A pair of Sea Bands might be your secret weapon. Pop these handy wristbands on, and they gently press on just the right spot to help keep seasickness at bay. Also, if the ship’s rocking motions trouble you, you might find solace higher up and mid-ship where you can also catch some of the best panoramas.
6. Say Goodbye to Guaranteed Views
When you’re eyeing that cruise getaway and daydreaming about gazing out at the ocean, keep in mind not all cabins guarantee that dreamy vista. Opting for the more wallet-friendly options might mean you end up with a room minus the windows, which could leave you feeling a bit boxed in.
7. Deciding Whether the Kids Should Come
If you’re leaning towards a family-friendly cruise, know that many ship lines cater to pint-sized sailors with childcare for tots as young as 24 months. They’ll be in good hands, giving you precious moments to unwind. Meanwhile, ships bursting with kid-centric fun might mean you get to revel in the excitement right alongside them.
8. Parking at the Port: Convenience vs Cost
Driving yourself to the cruise terminal can be a breeze, but it comes with a hefty consideration—where to park the car. But let’s not forget, convenience often has a price tag attached.
Widen your horizon beyond the port’s parking spots, because with a smidge of research, you might find that wallet-friendly lot that’s just a stone’s throw away. Keep those hard-earned dollars in your pocket and take the extra step to explore nearby parking alternatives before setting sail.
9. Smart Shopping: Items to Steer Clear Of
When you’re out exploring new places, keep a sharp eye on the purchases you make. Venice is a good example, where those too-good-to-be-true designer knockoffs could land you more trouble than they’re worth.
Here’s the scoop: if you’re tempted by one of those snazzy, fake handbags, just remember that not only are you bringing home a shoddy imitation but also you might be inviting a fine and a not-so-fun chat with the local police.
10. Cruise Control Your Budget
Hey, let’s be real—who enjoys the surprise of a scary credit card statement post-vacation? Staying on top of your spending on a cruise can be tricky with all the easy card swiping.
Opting for an all-inclusive might mean fewer unexpected charges, but if that’s not your cup of tea, here’s a nifty tip: just pop by the reception and ask them to print out a daily summary of your tab. This way, you can keep an eagle eye on your budget without missing out on the fun.
11. Flight and Cruise Combos
When you’re pondering how to kick off your sea adventure, snagging a flight and cruise package might seem like the perfect two-birds-one-stone deal. Securing everything through a single transaction offers convenience. You get to bypass the fuss of juggling multiple bookings and likely thank yourself for the time saved.
However, if your flight gets delayed, don’t expect the ship to keep the dock warm for you. Chances are, you’ll have to wave bon voyage from the terminal. This is where wielding some travel insurance might be a good idea.
12. Sail Smoothly with Travel Insurance
Sometimes, unexpected things like travel hitches, misplacing your luggage, or the occasional oops-I-slipped-on-deck can happen. It’s a smart move to pack some travel insurance. It’s always better sailing when you know someone’s got your back, right?
13. Your Cruise Wardrobe Matters
Packing for a cruise? Remember, each ship has its own vibe, and your outfits should match! Check the dress code well in advance to ensure you aren’t left out of the formal fun. Think of business casual as your go-to for evenings, with a twist of class.
Got a swanky dinner? That’s your cue to dazzle in your best get-up! No one wants the oh-no of being the only underdressed person in the room, so keep an eye out for those glamour nights and pack accordingly.
14. Choosing the Right Time to Cruise
Switching up your cruise timing from those jam-packed peak seasons to the more tranquil off-season could be the wallet-friendly switch you’ve been searching for.
Spring and fall are your go-to times for these serene getaways, though the ideal off-season can vary by location. Taking a cruise without the peak time buzz? Now that’s a smooth sail. And remember, a quality cruise doesn’t need the crowd.
15. Sky-High Wi-Fi Costs
Getting connected while floating out in the ocean can cost you a pretty penny. It’s no secret—staying online with cruise ship Wi-Fi can really add to your tab, often complete with the frustration of slower-than-sloth speeds.
