cruises 101

The First Day on a Royal Caribbean Cruise

Get a look at what to expect on day one of a cruise and the expert tips to make it memorable..

You can enjoy a lineup of adventures on a Royal Caribbean cruise from Day One, like the North Star observation capsule, ice skating and more.

Credit: Royal Caribbean

On a cruise , your vacation starts as soon as you set foot on your cruise ship. In fact, Day One has the makings to be as memorable as every other day of your getaway. Each ship is packed with adventures, restaurants, entertainment and more, and you can get in on the action right away.

Now, where do you start? There’s a guide for that, and this one is packed with expert tips and hacks to navigate your first day on board because every minute of your time off is a minute to enjoy. High-speed waterslides, surfing and skydiving simulators, entertainment across four “ stages “—air, ice, water and theater—as well as restaurants ranging from Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen to American steakhouse Chops Grille are all at your fingertips.

Read on to see how you can make the most of your time on board from the get-go:

From high-speed waterslides to kids aqua parks and adults-only pools, there’s something for everyone on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Getting On Board

Set yourself to vacation mode early and check in for your cruise with the Royal Caribbean mobile app . You’ll get all the information you need before you arrive, and you can scan your passport and upload a “selfie” as a security photo to generate a mobile boarding pass and choose your arrival time. The pass is your ticket to quickly get on board. Several terminals even have facial recognition for an experience that’s as hands-off as it gets. Whether you check in with the app or online, as long as you have the right identification documents handy, getting to your ship will be a breeze.

Next, you’ll want to pick up your SeaPass card, which functions as your room key, ID and credit card. It’ll be in a sealed envelope that’s waiting for you right outside your stateroom.

See You Later, Luggage

When you get to the cruise terminal, leave your baggage behind—literally. You can give porters your luggage once you’ve tagged it with the necessary details, like your stateroom number, and they’ll work with the ship’s crew members to deliver it to your stateroom later that day.

Pro tip : Bring a small bag or tote with a few essentials—like a swimsuit, sunscreen and shades—so that you’re ready to jump in on the action on board, whether that’s at places like the pool and on the waterslides, the rock climbing wall or the bumper cars at SeaPlex.

The Ultimate Abyss is the tallest slide at sea, with 10 stories of heart-pumping twists and turns.

Explore the Ship

Go on and familiarize yourself with your home away from home and all it has to offer . You can simply wander or plan out your path with the deck plans (aka maps) on the app or digital wayfinders throughout the ship.

Pro tip: Use the mobile app (for  iOS  or  Android ) to personalize your cruise, especially when traveling with a group. Book ahead of time and easily map out your adventures, from shore excursions to activities, dining and more.

Get Playing

There’s something for kids and adults of all ages and interests on a Royal Caribbean ship. If you like to be active, there are ice skating rinks, bumper cars, laser tag, escape rooms, simulated surfing and skydiving and zip lines , to name a few experiences. Want to relax? Enjoy a shady casita by the pool, book a spa treatment, head to the adults-only Solarium area or take a stroll in Central Park, the neighborhood that’s filled with more than 20,000 real plants. You can quickly find out what’s open by checking out the Cruise Compass on the app or as a printed copy that you can pick up at Guest Services or in your stateroom.

Pro tip:  Visit the Vitality Spa & Fitness Center to check out the lineup of treatments and classes. For the kids (6 months to 12 years old), take advantage of Adventure Ocean’s open house on Day One to register for the award-winning kids’ program.

From New England- and Southern-inspired restaurants to pizzerias and steakhouses, you have many different eateries to choose from on a Royal Caribbean ship.

Grab a Bite

If you’re hungry, you can have your choice of dishes from several restaurants that are open as soon as you board. There are spots like Windjammer Cafe, which serves up a variety of foods that reflect the many places the crew members are from—from the Caribbean to Europe and India—and El Loco Fresh, which serves up casual Mexican fare like DIY tacos, burritos, quesadillas and more.

You can also take a peek at the menus at the main dining room and specialty restaurants, which will open for dinner that night. And if one spot—like The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar —catches your eye, you can make reservations right then and there or on the app.

Line Up Your Entertainment

Next, scope out the playbill and make reservations to watch the jaw-dropping entertainment on board. Every Royal Caribbean ship has a lineup of full-scale performances that every member of the family will love—some even put on shows across four “stages:” air, ice, water and theater. Enjoy deck-defying acrobatics, slacklining, high diving and more at AquaTheater; Olympic-level ice skaters at Studio B; and original and Broadway productions like “Mamma Mia!” and “Hairspray.” Or simply kick back to live music at one of the many bars and lounges.

Sit back and relax by the pool where you can enjoy a front-row seat to ocean views. Really settle into your vacation vibes with the signature Lime & Coconut cocktail , a delicious blend of coconut rum, coconut milk, guava syrup and lime juice, while at The Lime & Coconut poolside bar, where DJs and live bands play. And if zero-proof cocktails are your thing, those are on the menu, too, like the Blueberry Nojito and the Watermelon Mint Lemonade.

Whether you splurged on a luxe two-story suite , have multiple connected staterooms with your family or just want to check out the views from your balcony, your stateroom will be ready by the early afternoon. This is a great time to unwind and unpack—which you only have to do once on a cruise.

Most bars will be open as soon as you board the ship, so start putting that beverage package to work.

Complete the Safety Briefing (in Minutes)

Before setting sail, everyone on board needs to complete a safety briefing . Luckily, with the mobile app, you can do it whenever—and wherever—you like in just a few minutes. You can also find it on your stateroom TV and do it from the comfort of your bed. The final step is to visit your designated location (aka muster station), so you can check in with the crew.

Head to the top deck for incredible views and a sail away party with live music. Post your ‘gram-worthy shots and toast to your trip by making use of your beverage package and grabbing a tropical cocktail inspired by several of the destinations Royal Caribbean visits, like the Bahamian Goombay Smash and the Jamaican Planter’s Punch.

Wrap up Day One with a movie under the stars with your family or have a night out on the town with your friends. You can start with dinner then grab front-row seats to a show and end the night on a high note with a cocktail at one of the bars and lounges where you can karaoke, see a comedian perform or listen to live musicians.

Ready to get away? Check out the cruises and 240-plus destinations you can choose from here .

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57 Must-Have Tips, Advice, and Info For First-Time Cruisers

Taking your first cruise? The only thing that can match the excitement of an upcoming vacation is the overwhelmed feeling that comes with trying to navigate and plan for your first trip. We’ve been there. Our first cruise, we had no idea what to expect.

From embarkation on cruise day to dining to shore excursions, everything you do on a cruise is just a little different than any other vacation you’ve ever been on. That’s why we’ve taken the time to round up a boatload of tips — 57 to be exact — that will help you know better about what to expect come cruise day. These are all tips we’ve learned over more than a decade — and dozens — of cruises.

From the basic details of cruising to how to save some cash — and much more — we’ve got everything you need to be confident and enjoy your trip the second you reach the port.

Note:  This article contains links to Amazon that are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

1. Don’t Worry About Cash on Board; Everything Is Paid Through Your Room Key

When you go through check-in, you’ll receive the key to your room. (Check-in online ahead of time? It may be in a sealed envelope at your cabin door.) This “key” is actually like a credit card that you’ll slide into your cabin door to unlock it. But it does a lot more. It’s also linked to your shipboard account, and you’ll use your room key just like a credit card to charge items to your account.

No matter if you’re buying a drink or a souvenir on one of the ships, you’ll use this card to pay. The only time you’ll use cash is when you are off the ship in port ( here’s how much cash to bring ). This is much more convenient than having to carry around dollars. Just be sure to keep a close hold on your card!

2. Interior Cabins Are Fine For First-Time Cruisers

Wondering if you should get an interior cabin or a balcony room? Don’t sweat it. Balconies are great, but there are some big advantages for interior cabins . As a first-time cruiser, it’s doubtful you’ll be spending much time in your room anyway as you’ll want to be out and about exploring. Having an interior cabin is a cheaper way to get on your first sailing without breaking the bank.

3. Balcony Rooms Are Worth It

As we just said, interior cabins are great for first-time cruisers who are usually out around the ship the entire trip. But if you do decide to spring for a balcony room, it’s well worth it.

This is especially the case if you’re the sort of person who likes to take your time getting ready in the morning while sipping on a cup of coffee or just having your own private space to take in the view. Having the fresh air — and the million-dollar views — from your balcony is worth the extra cost if you want to pay a little more for your trip.

4. What to Expect With Security at Check-In

Who isn’t turned off by the intrusive security at airports these days? From having to empty water bottles, to taking off shoes, to raising your hands and being scanned by a machine, it’s awful. Thankfully, cruise security is much more like flying used to be.

Enter the terminal and then you’ll have to pass through a security checkpoint. You’ll step through a metal detector and your bags will go on an x-ray machine. The security process takes just a few seconds. There aren’t highly intrusive screening measures in place such as pat-downs, you don’t have to remove your belt or shoes, and you don’t have limits on liquids.

5. Book Packages Ahead of Time for a Discount

Any veteran cruise passenger knows the best way to save some cash is to book packages ahead of your cruise. Things like drink packages and wi-fi are discounted through your online account before your cruise. Cruise lines offer this incentive to get you to book early and spend more money. Still, if you’re going to buy the packages anyway, it’s worth it.

The savings can be substantial versus the onboard prices, such as drink packages offered for buy one, get one 50% off. 

6. Passports Are Better Than Birth Certificates

One nice thing about cruises is that many trips allow you to sail with only a birth certificate and photo ID (if the cruise begins and ends in the same port). If you don’t have a passport, you can still leave the country and don’t have to go through the hassle and expense of obtaining one.

Even so, it’s much smarter to sail with a passport. Not only does it come in handy should you need to leave the ship early due to an emergency, but it can also save you time. These days many ports use facial recognition matched with your passport for entering the country. Snap a photo and you’re on your way home. Those with birth certificates sometimes still wait in line to be checked by an officer.

7. Don’t Worry About Changing Money in Port

Headed to the Caribbean? It’s likely you’ll visit several countries — with several different currencies — within just a few days. The good news is you don’t have to think about converting currencies at each port. The ports you visit thrive on tourism and make things easy for tourists. They will all gladly accept U.S. dollars, and often take credit cards. Just bring some smaller bills for your port days and you’ll be all set.

8. Take Advantage of Drink Policies to Bring Things On

When you get on a ship there is no shortage of places to spend money. That’s why we suggest passengers take advantage of any chance they have to save.

Case in point: Carnival and Royal Caribbean — two of the biggest players in cruising — allow you to bring on 12 cans of non-alcoholic drinks . 

Considering that soft drinks are about $3 each on a cruise, that can save you a nice chunk of change. As well, it allows you to bring your favorite non-alcoholic drink with you in case it isn’t served on the ship.

9. Order Multiples in the Main Dining Room

Most people don’t realize it, but the cruise lines will often bend over backwards to make you happy. Case in point: You can order multiple items from the dining room menu.

So say you want an appetizer, but can’t choose between two of them. Don’t choose. Instead, just order them both.

This makes it a great way to try dishes that are out of your comfort zone. If you don’t end up liking it, then there’s no big loss since the dining room food is included. (Some lines may charge a small fee for multiple entrees.)

10. Yes, You Can Bring (Some) Alcohol on Board

Cruise lines know that people want to let loose and have a drink (or ten!) on the cruise. That’s why they charge high prices for their booze. Still, most cruise lines allow you to bring aboard some alcohol when you embark at the start of your trip. It’s very restrictive in that it’s typically only a bottle or two of champagne. Still, we recommend taking advantage as it’s much cheaper than buying drinks once on the ship.

11. Do the Math Before Booking the “All You Can Drink” Packages

If you’ve been tempted by the drink packages, do the math before you buy it. Drink packages seem like good deals, but the rules can make them quite pricey. For instance, many cruise lines force each person in a cabin to buy the package if any passenger buys it. As well, you have to buy the package for the entire cruise.

That means even on days when you are in port (and not on the ship for most of the day), you’re still paying for the package. Finally, with high daily prices, you usually have to drink 7-10 drinks each and every day you are on the cruise to come out ahead.

For many passengers, they are actually better off buying drinks individually . (Use our Drink Package Calculator to see if you’re better off with a package.)

12. Take Your Time, Reduce the Lines

Want to board first? Want to be first off the ship? Great, hope you like standing in line. Today’s ships carry more than 5,000 passengers at a time. That means there are usually lines for everything, especially right when they open like when it’s time to board the ship. We’d suggest simply taking your time and don’t worry about being anywhere right when it opens. It will mean you spend less of your vacation waiting around and more time enjoying your trip.

13. Parking at the Port Is Convenient, But There Are Cheaper Options

If you’re driving to the cruise port, then you should know that it doesn’t get any more convenient than with the official port parking lots. They are typically right at the cruise terminal, so you unload and head right to check-in. Of course, they charge for that convenience.

If you search for parking lots near the port , you can usually find independent lots that are nearly as convenient, but at a sharp discount to parking at the port. These lots almost always offer a free shuttle to drop you off right at the ship as well.

14. Many Hotels Offer Free Cruise Parking

Plan to stay in town the night before your cruise? If you’re driving in, look for a hotel that offers a cruise parking special . As an incentive to attract guests, many hotels (especially in smaller port cities like Galveston) offer free parking if you stay a night with them. It’s an easy way to save a bundle, but only if you planned to stay the night anyway. It’s typically not worth it to stay just to get free parking.

15. There’s No Bill to Sign (or Tip to Leave) in the Dining Room

Tipping is a fact of life on a cruise. And cruise lines have included gratuities with your cruise fare or charged daily to your account, so they are taken care of automatically. That means when you eat in the free restaurants on the ship like the buffet and the main dining room, there’s no bill to pay or tip to leave.

It can feel a little wrong the first time, but when you are done with dinner, you simply get up and walk out.

Now, this doesn’t go for specialty restaurants that are a fee. If you eat there you’re expected to sign the bill to confirm the charge, and the gratuity is tacked onto the price.

16. Turn Your Phone On Airplane Mode Once on the Ship

There are horror stories of people coming back from their cruise with unexpected cell phone charges. The reason is either they use their phone willingly without realizing they are connected to a “roaming” tower or their phone used data without their knowledge for things like updating apps or downloading messages. No matter the reason, you don’t want to accidentally get dinged with a sky-high phone bill. Put your phone on airplane mode before your cruise leaves the shore.

You should also turn on the wi-fi, which will allow you to connect for free to the cruise line’s app. You can also pay to connect to the ship’s wi-fi and use your phone as normal.

17. Yes, You Can Hear Through the Walls (So Keep it Down)

If you’re worried about sounds traveling through the walls, you should be. To be clear, the walls are not paper thin, so you won’t hear the cabin next to you watching a TV at a normal volume. But if you are the type that makes a lot of noise (ahem… enjoying your vacation with your partner, perhaps?), then you should try to keep it down. You’ll also be able to hear people in the halls through the door.

18. The Main Dining Room Serves Breakfast and Lunch

Most passengers will eat their dinner in the main dining room, but they actually serve breakfast and lunch there too. The buffet is quick and easy for these meals, but the quality and freshness is usually lower than what you’ll get in the dining rooms. Head over if you want something a little better.

19. It’s a Ship… Not a Boat

It’s not a big deal, but just so you don’t sound like a rookie cruiser, it’s good to understand the terminology. It is a cruise ship that you are sailing on. Calling it a boat during the trip may get you funny looks. 

There’s no real cut-off on what is a considered a boat, versus a ship — other than ships are known as large ocean-going vessels. There’s no doubt that the size and scale of any cruise ship you sail will definitely put them firmly in the “ship” category.

20. Ports of Call Aren’t Always Disneyland

With everything seemingly so perfect on the ship, it can be easy to think that ports of call are perfect as well. To be fair, ports you visit will be pretty safe, especially in the tourist areas. Venture outside of these spots, however, and it’s just like any other place. There are good parts of town and places where you don’t want to venture.

Odds are you won’t find these spots without looking for them, but be aware of your surroundings at all times and don’t do anything like flash lots of cash or wear tons of fancy jewelry. It’s also a good idea not to drink too much in port to keep your wits about you.

21. Cruise Insurance? Always a Good Idea to Have

The fact is that most people will never use the travel insurance that they buy. Still, if something goes wrong at sea, it’s a great thing to have. Travel insurance can help cover costs of getting sick or injured in a foreign country, as well as compensate you for travel delays, lost baggage and more. If you’re on the fence about buying insurance, we’d suggest doing so. You can read more about travel insurance and what it covers here .

22. Be Ready for Itinerary Changes

Have your heart set on Cozumel? Can’t wait for that private island? Just know that cruise itineraries can change for any number of reasons. Whether it be an issue with the ship, weather, or even riots in port (yes, this has happened). Often the cruise lines will try to sub one port for another, but it isn’t unheard of for them just to scrap a stop in port altogether. Keep in mind that this is a fairly rare occurrence, but it does happen.

23. Don’t Use Cruise Line Transfers to the Port; They’re a Lousy Deal

If you’re flying in for your cruise, then you’re going to need a ride to the cruise port. Cruise lines are happy to offer this service, for a price. All the cruise lines will offer a shuttle that runs from the airport to the cruise port, but the catch is they are expensive.

For example, Carnival offers a ride from Miami International to the port for about $23 per person, one way. The trip is only about 15 minutes and an Uber costs about $25 for the trip. In other words, a roundtrip on the cruise shuttle would cost $184 for a family of four, but only around $50 with Uber or Lyft.

24. Don’t Waste Time Searching For a Deal; Fares Are the Same on Every Website

If you think you’re going to find some hidden deal, stop stressing. Every cruise website offers the same fares these days . Here’s the results of a recent search we did for an upcoming cruise, pricing it out across several sites:

Our advice? Book directly with the cruise line to cut out the middleman in case there is an issue with your reservation. If you don’t know what cruise line you want to sail, then an aggregator like Expedia can search multiple lines at once.

25. Yes, There’s a Hair Dryer in Your Cabin

Save the space and leave the hair dryer at home. Each cabin comes with a hair dryer for your use. They usually aren’t fancy, but get the job done. Even better, let the breeze on the top deck dry your hair for you (that’s a joke… sea hair is a real thing!)

You’ll normally find it in the built-in console in the main part of the cabin, not in the bathroom.

26. Outlet Adapters Are a Must-Have

From portable fans to laptop and tablet chargers to nightlights to curling irons, the need for outlets in a cruise cabin is always increasing. That’s why we suggest bringing aboard an outlet adapter like this one to plug in and give you more free plugs.

One thing to know — adapters with surge protectors are forbidden. A simple multi-plug adapter is all you really need, and it’s worth its weight in gold.

27. Cabins Get Very Dark; Bring a Night Light

There’s nothing worse than being in an unfamiliar, dark cabin and having to get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom. Save yourself from walking into furniture and stubbing your toe by packing a simple plug-in nightlight . It’s especially helpful if you’re in an interior cabin where there are no windows to provide outside illumination.

28. Every Cabin Comes With a Safe; Use it

When you leave your cabin, be sure to put any valuables in the cabin safe. No, it’s not perfect, but it acts as a good deterrent from crimes of convenience and provides you with a little peace of mind. The safes aren’t that big, but will hold cash, jewelry, phones and passports with plenty of room to spare.

29. Your Balcony Isn’t as Private as You Think

The cruise line might sell it as a private balcony, but there isn’t a whole lot of privacy. Your balcony on your cabin will have walls that shield you from the adjoining cabins, but the walls often don’t go from the floor to ceiling. They can easily be looked under or above, and someone could look around the side of them if they really wanted to. Keep this in mind if you’re out on the balcony when the mood for romance strikes .

30. Drink in Port to Save Cash Versus on the Ship

We all know drinking is part of cruise culture, but the cost can soar quickly. Beers cost about $8 on the ship. Cocktails usually run $12-$14.That’s why it’s a good idea to head to port if you want to get your money’s worth.

Most of the party bars near the cruise terminals in the Caribbean will have drink specials designed to get you in the door. It’s often much cheaper than drinking at a ship’s bar.

31. Taking the Stairs Is Faster If Traveling Only a Few Decks

With upwards of 20 decks on some cruise ships, going up and down via stairs is time-consuming… and tiring. But with so many people using the elevators, it’s common to have to wait awhile before you get one. That’s why if you are only going up or down three decks or fewer, it’s usually faster to take the stairs. Plus, it will help you work off some of those buffet calories.

32. Don’t Stress: Formal Night Isn’t a Big Deal

No, you don’t have to buy a tux or an evening gown for your cruise. You won’t be out of place if you do, but formal night actually isn’t that big of a deal. On these nights, plenty of people dress up, while others just put on a pair of nice pants and a button-down shirt. Our advice? Just keep it a step above poolside casual  (so no shorts or t-shirts) and you’ll be just fine.

33. Don’t Tip Twice! Gratuity Is Usually Automatic

Grab a drink from the bar? Your bill will typically include a gratuity automatically (normally 18%). Keep this in mind and double-check the itemized receipt before you sign as there is often another line for write-in tips. Unless the service was simply above and beyond, there is no reason to give a second tip on your drink.

34. You’ll Get Sunburned Much More Quickly in the Tropics

Everyone tells you to be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen on your cruise, but they don’t tell you why. At lower latitudes the sun’s rays are more direct. The result is that you can get burned being exposed to the sun for as little as 10 minutes if you aren’t used to it. So yes, wear the sunscreen, as well as a broad-brimmed hat to keep the UV rays off you as much as possible. The last thing you want is to look like a lobster on the second day of a week-long cruise.

35. Cruise on Older Ships to Save Money

News stories always hype up the biggest, newest cruise ships, and the cruise lines charge a pretty penny for sailings on these ships. If you’re looking to save money, look for trips that sail on older vessels.

These ships are still in great shape (and are often refurbished), but offer fares that are hundreds of dollars less than a similar sailing on a new member of the fleet.

36. Pack as Much as You Want, But Be Smart

Most of us are used to air travel, where you are charged sky-high fees for checking in baggage. Cruise ships are completely different.

There are no fees for luggage and no hard rules for how much you can bring. It’s a nice change of pace from flying, but don’t go crazy. Remember that even though you can bring more on board, you still have to lug all that luggage around. Lighter is better. If you’re bringing more than one large bag for a week-long cruise, then you’re packing too much.

37. Don’t Cruise If You Have a Warrant For Your Arrest

Traffic ticket that you never cleared up? Some other run-in with the law? If you have a warrant, don’t think about taking your first cruise. It’s a well-known tactic by law enforcement to check the passenger manifest against those with outstanding warrants. They often let the passengers sail on the cruise, and bust them when they come back . Get it cleared up before and you won’t have anything to worry about.

38. Worried About Seasickness? Here’s What to Know

If you fear being seasick, the good news is that most times you don’t even feel the ocean. That’s not to say you won’t feel occasional bumps or rocking, but if you’re expecting to move with the ocean, it doesn’t happen much. In fact, ships are so stable they often have pool tables onboard.

But if you are worried about it, then just pack some motion sickness medication or patches. You can also look for a cabin that is as low and close to the middle of the ship as possible.

The action of the waves causes the ship to pitch up and down the most at the end of the ship, with the middle acting as the fulcrum on a see-saw. There’s no guarantee you won’t feel the motion, but it should be better than getting a room toward the front or back of the ship.

39. Avoid Lines By Visiting Guest Services Late at Night or Early in the Morning

Chances are decent you’ll need to visit Guest Services as least once during your trip. If you do have to go to ask something about a reservation or your account, try to time your visit to off-hours (the desk is open 24 hours a day). Times like just before dinner can see long lines, when you’d rather be out enjoying yourself. Early in the morning (before 8 a.m.) and late at night (after 9 p.m.) are the best times to see the shortest lines. You also see shorter lines in the middle of the cruise.

40. Wait For People to Exit the Elevators Before Trying to Get In

Elevators are the heartbeat of the ship. With 5,000 cruise passengers trying to go up and down on more than a dozen decks, elevators are constantly busy, no matter the time of day. That’s why you should always wait to enter only after people have gotten out. It’s polite, but it also makes getting on and off much easier. Just stand far enough back to give people plenty of space to exit and then enter only after your sure everyone is off. 

41. Pack a Small Fan For Your Cabin

While every cabin has air conditioning, they don’t have fans of any kind. That’s not an issue if you have a balcony and open your door, but any interior room is going to get a little stuffy — especially if you’re the sort of person that’s used to airflow. Luckily, you can bring aboard a portable fan like this one . As a bonus, a fan makes a great white-noise machine to help drown out any sounds from neighboring cabins.

42. Wear Sandals With Thick Tread Around the Ship

If you have a pair of cheap flip-flops that you like wearing around the pool, then it’s time to upgrade. Those sandals usually have slick bottoms that get worn down easy. When you hit a puddle, it’s easy to lose your grip and slip. On a ship, there are way too many places where you can slip and fall — especially around the pool. Upgrade to a pair that has a nice rubberized sole with plenty of tread.

43. What to Take Into Port With You

When you’re headed into port, the only two things you have to take with you are your ship keycard (it’s used to check you on/off the ship) and a photo ID if you’re 16 or older. Some people bring passports, but they aren’t required. 

Apart from that, you just want to bring whatever you might want or need for the day. If headed to the beach, we suggest a towel (beach towels are provided on the ship and can be taken into port), some cash, sunscreen, a hat, and walking shoes. 

44. Your Casino Payouts Can Be Worse Than on Land

If you want to gamble, a cruise ship offers plenty of opportunity. Nearly every cruise ship offers a casino . Just don’t expect great payouts. For example, on most ships blackjack pays 6-to-5 instead of the usual 3-to-2. Craps games heavily limit the amount of odds bets you can make. Video poker offers lower paybacks than the optimum pay table.

Head to the casino, enjoy yourself, but don’t think you’re getting a great deal.

45. Always Pack Some Cool-Weather Gear

Even if you are headed to the sunny Caribbean, it’s still a good idea to bring some warm clothes. When the ship is sailing and the sun has gone down, the combination of cooler temps and a strong breeze make it downright chilly on the deck. In addition, many spots around the ship are well air-conditioned, meaning you can be cool indoors as well.

46. Sail During the Summer/Spring Break for Younger Crowds

If you want to hang out with a younger crowd, then the time of year you sail is the biggest factor as to who you will sail with. Ships see younger crowds when school is out — Spring Break, Christmas, and Summer Break.

And if you’re looking to avoid younger folks and have a quieter cruise, then try to sail when school is in session and people are heading back to work. Months of January and February, as well as September and October will see older crowds compared to summer.

47. Save Hundreds By Sailing Off-Season

The rule of thumb is that cruises are most expensive when school is out. That’s because more people are able to take trips, driving up demand. So if you’re flexible with your dates, you can sail during off-season months like January or October and save some considerable money . The same trip sailing in late January can be 50% the cost of the same sailing that departs at the peak of summer.

48. Shorter Cruises = More Party-Like Atmosphere

If you want to have a calmer, quieter cruise, then look for trips that are seven days or more. Shorter cruises, which are less-expensive overall, tend to attract younger and more energetic crowds. That’s not to say it’s going to be like Mardi Gras, but shorter cruises — especially those traveling during the summer months — will definitely be a bit rowdier than what you’ll see from a week-long trip.

49. Invest in a Good Dry-Bag For Shore Days 

If you’re sailing to the Caribbean, the first image that comes to mind is white, sandy beaches and clear water. But what do you do with your cash, wallet, phone, and anything else you don’t want to get wet?

You can either leave it on shore as you swim or risk it getting soaked in the water. That’s why a dry-bag like this one is a great investment. It’s cheap, compact, and keeps all your stuff safe and sound.

50. Go Ahead, Splurge on Shore Excursions (Worth It)

Your first thought when you see the prices of shore excursions is that they are expensive. It’s not unusual for a shore excursion that is just 3-4 hours run more than $100 per person. But we think this is one spot to splurge on your trip.

Excursions give you a chance to do things you won’t have the opportunity to do anywhere else in the world — from exploring ancient ruins to taking a submarine under the Caribbean . After your trip you won’t remember the money you spent, but you won’t forget the experience you had.

51. Be Prepared for Hundreds in Port Fees and Gratuities

Cruise lines advertise ridiculously low fares. Well, just know that they are just the start of what you’ll pay. In addition, you’ll have to pay taxes and port fees, which can run into the hundreds depending on your specific trip. Add to that gratuities, which run about $18 per person, per day. Combined, these fees can add considerably to the cost of your cruise. Be prepared.

Note: Following a new law in California, cruise lines now advertise port fee and taxes in the price of the cruise, making pricing much more transparent from the start.

52. Keeping in Touch is Expensive (Internet Access)

Want to check email, surf the web, or call/text back home? Prepare to pay. Out at sea, the only communication is via satellite. Every cruise ship will have packages that allow you to call or get web access , but they charge a high price (often around $15-25 per day). There are several work-arounds (such as international plans that will give you cell phone service in port cities or using free wi-fi in ports), but for many people, it might be best just to turn off your device and enjoy being disconnected for a few days.

If you do book wi-fi, we’d suggest getting the top-tier package. Lower plans tend to have frustratingly slow connections.

53. Don’t Even Think About Being Late For the Ship

Check out the video below. As a first-time cruiser, don’t let this happen to you. The departure times for port days aren’t suggestions. You should be back on board by that time and not a moment later. The last thing you want to do is be a “pier runner” or worse, miss the ship altogether.

54. No Habla Espanol? No Problemo.

Many of the ports in the Caribbean and Mexico are Spanish-speaking countries, whereas others may speak Dutch or French. Don’t worry. You don’t have to be multi-lingual to get by. The cruise ports thrive on tourism and they make it as easy as possible for foreign tourists to get around. Practically everyone you encounter will speak English, so you can leave the Spanish dictionary at home.

55. Be Prepared to Have Your Picture Taken

Not the sort of person that likes having your picture taken by strangers? Get ready, because it will start before you even step foot on the ship. It’s big business on a cruise for roving photographers to take pictures of guests having fun. The pictures are then sold in the photo store on the ship. As a first-timer, it can be unnerving when you’re trying to relax (which others love it).

To be fair, the photographers are great and it’s a nice way to get a professional photo done to remember your trip. If you don’t want a picture taken, you can just politely decline. And there’s no charge unless you decide to buy the picture.

56. Don’t Expect to Drink the Alcohol Bought in Port

If you think that bottle of tequila you just bought in Cozumel will make for a fun evening, think again. Just like on embarkation day, you can’t bring on bottles of booze from ports. Anything bought in port will be held on the ship and delivered back to your stateroom the night before you leave.

57. Be Careful, Cruises Are Addicting

You sure you want to take that first cruise? One thing they don’t tell you in all the brochures is how addicting it can be. A week of being catered to, eating great food, and visiting multiple exotic ports is hard to forget when you head back to work after your trip. In fact, many people book their next cruise while on the ship. But let’s be honest… there are worse habits to have than a cruising habit!

Related Articles:

• The Must-Read First-Time Cruise Guide for New Passengers
• 22 Basic Things Every First-Time Cruiser Should Know
• The 8 Things First-Timers Forget to Pack for a Cruise

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, cruise line drink package calculator, everything to know about balcony cabins on a cruise ship (read before booking), what to expect when sailing on an old cruise ship (are they worth it), worth it 15 cruise drink package questions & answers to know, explained: differences between large and small(er) cruise ships, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of), 15 comments.

My first cruise next week will tender at Phuket with overnight stay. I’m wondering whether tender boat is usually available round-the-clock and will I be able to get back to the ship at midnight on Day 1? Or should I consider booking a hotel onshore? Thank you.

Not sure on that. Only stayed overnight in a port once and there was an “all-aboard” at midnight so they didn’t want you staying out past that time. It will be a cruise line policy, however, so yours may be different.

Where or who do I find out about Port Fees and taxes how much I should budget.

This will all be disclosed prior to buying. You can price the specific cruise online, but normally just factoring in $100-$200 per person is a quick way to figure it.

Ok I’m confused about the alcohol. Because most I have seen allow two bottles of wine per cabin (Either per port or per cruise). But this says you won’t get it until after the cruise?

No, you can bring on bottles of wine/champagne. Anything bought in port will be held until the last day of the cruise and then delivered to your room the last night.

Thank you for explaining that your room key acts more like a credit card on a cruise. My wife and I are planning on taking a cruise at the end of the year as a way to celebrate the coming of the new year. This will be our first time, so these tips you shared will help us make sure we have a great experience during the cruise.

I’m planning my trip first cruise. When choosing a balcony cabin on a large cruise, is it better on the upper decks, middle or lower? There seem to be price differences for different decks. Rom is there no difference? Thank you for infor.

To us it doesn’t really matter. It’s more about where you want to be in proximity to other parts of the ship. For example, most of the indoor amenities (casino, shopping, etc) are in the middle of the ship. Outdoor amenities are on the higher decks. So it’s really about if you mind taking the stairs or elevators to get back and forth.

My favorite part of this article is when you said that booking the balcony room is the best choice. As you mentioned, it is perfect for those who take their time in the morning while drinking a cup of coffee with a view. This is perfect for my husband and me because my husband is way too slow in the morning since he is a night owl. Actually, ever since we were dating, he would never choose to go out in the morning. Thanks!

Wow, it’s interesting that you said that there are no luggage fees in cruises, and we can bring as much as items as we want to. My family and I are going to look for a cruise trip for summer because it has been of our dreams ever since my husband and I got married. Our kids were also very excited when we told our plans with them. We will keep these tips in mind. Thanks a lot!

is there smoking cigarettes on a carnival cruise

Yes there is, but only in designated areas. It’s not allowed in your cabin or on your balcony.

Just returned from our first cruise and I am so glad I read your ‘tips and advice’! They really helped! And yes, they are ‘addicting’! Already booked for this summer out of NYC on a 4 night with new Carnival ship to Bermuda!!! YAY!!

Love to hear you had a great time!

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First-time cruisers on a Wind Surf sailing. If you're new to cruising, read the tips below to have a more care-free getaway.

• 10 cruise tips every beginner should know

Basic advice on how to prepare for your first cruise

Carrie Finley-Bajak

Orange County, CA

CruiseClout score: 20.0

If you've never taken a cruise before, don't feel overwhelmed by the process of discovering, planning and booking your cruise. Hey, we've all been there! Every passenger was a first-timer at some point.

All in all, it's really not that hard. To help smooth the way and take some of the guesswork out of the planning process, we've put together this tip sheet of 10 things every first-timer should know. That way you can focus on the fun part — like bragging to your friend.

Understand your options. Most people don't understand that you have a ton of flexibility in reserving a cruise. In most cases, you have to put down only a small deposit, and if you decide to cancel — typically up to 90 days before the cruise — you get it entirely back!

Keep those key dates in mind. If you have not paid for your cruise in full, be aware that it's your responsibility to understand when your final payment is due. Failure to make the final payment by the due date could result in a canceled booking.

Book your flight early. If flights are required to reach your embarkation port, make sure to book them well in advance to make sure that you have a seat. 

Research drink packages in advance to see if the cruise line offers a beverage package. The best deals might be pre-purchased online and they might not be available on the ship. (If you're starting out with a luxury cruise, beverages are included in your fare.)

Make restaurant reservations before you board. Many first-timers don’t realize that some of the better restaurants aboard a large cruise ship completely book up before you even set sail. They're usually specialty restaurants .

Plan your port activities. Don't wait until you get on the ship to decide what to do in port. Figure it out before you go, and research the ports of call to decide what you might want to do. The most popular attractions will sell out if you plan to use the cruise line's shore excursion program.

Print out your pre-boarding documents. Although you can do this at the pier, it will save time if you register in advance. Plan ahead, and register on the cruise line's site at least a week before your sailing date.

Pack a carry-on. This way you can carry everything you would want to use onto the ship while you wait for your bags. At the pier, you will give your bags to a porter who will load your suitcases onto the ship where the ship's crew will deliver them to your cabin. The larger the ship, the longer the wait.

Scope out the dining room. When you get on the ship, make it a priority to check out your main dining room to see where your table is, if your ship has dining with fixed seating. Your chances of changing dining rooms, tables and dining times are better at the beginning of the cruise. The maitre d’ or head waiter usually holds court at embarkation , so read your daily program for a meeting place and time.

Get a copy of your shipboard account (or bill) two days before the last night of the cruise. Make sure that you settle any disputed charges ahead of time.

Some final tips

Over the years, every cruise line I’ve come across really is concerned about you having a good time on your cruise. So if you’re not satisfied with any aspect of your cruise, make sure to let the manager know. Don’t be shy, speak up! The cruise line will try everything possible to help you get your vacation back on track.

After your trip is over, if you decide to take another cruise with the same cruise line, make a future cruise deposit to get perks like onboard credit  offers, reduced deposits or possibly a lower fare. Make sure to find out if the deposit is refundable and know that you can transfer the booking to a travel agent of your choice to help you with the booking.

Finally, share your experience with others! It could be just a Facebook update, or writing an article about the most memorable person you met, or writing a review of the ship or uploading photos to Cruiseable. People are interested in others’ experiences, so go ahead and share!

How about you? What lessons or tips can you pass along to first-time cruisers?

Updated from an earlier version. See anything wrong? What did we overlook? Be a co-creator!

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Carrie Finley-Bajak I'm a cruise journalist, blogger, CLIA Accredited Cruise Counselor and a columnist for Travel Weekly. Follow me on Twitter, Google Plus, Pinterest and Instagram.

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17 Cruise Tips for First-Timers

Last updated: July 16th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

When preparing for your first cruise, one of the most important tools is communication–with your travel partners as well as with the cruise line. From getting to know the priorities and interests of your friends or family coming along to understanding the opportunities and activities available during your sailing, there is so much to learn (such as knowing the difference between port vs starboard ) and get excited about before you even set sail.

Follow these cruise tips for first-timers to ensure that your first cruise vacation is everything you hope it to be and so much more.

1: Pack smart

One of the best pieces of cruise advice for first-timers is not to overpack. The key to maximizing both the space in your suitcase and in your stateroom comes down to using travel accessories that do double duty.

For example, a toiletry kit that holds all your personal hygiene and beauty items could sit on the vanity and take up space, but opting for one that folds out and hangs by a hook means freeing up that space.

Toss a couple of hook magnets into your bag to use as additional wardrobe hooks in your cabin, since the doors are metal. They’re also great for hanging your SeaPass card lanyard or a chic swimsuit coverup.

Read: How to Prepare for Your First Cruise

2: Consider a longer itinerary

Mykonos, Greece

While weekend cruises are popular and considered a good way to sample cruising, long-time cruisers will say that they’re quite different from itineraries of a week or more. On longer itineraries, you’ll have the time to truly unwind and explore both the ship and its destinations.

3: Back up your devices

In the days before your departure, move excess data on your phone, computers, and camera memory cards to an external hard drive or, at the very least, sync the photos and data to a cloud-based service so that you have the space required for capturing all the memories you are about to make.

The last thing you want to do is miss the sunset from your veranda because you have to scroll through your devices trying to delete old pictures to make room for new ones—especially if it’s your first time on a cruise .

4: Double-check your data plan

Denali, Alaska

The urge to share your vacation photos of pristine Caribbean beaches and selfies snapped at historic sites is great, but if you are outside of your country and your data plan is restrictive, that sharing could cost a pretty penny. Before starting your cruise vacation, check your cell phone data plan to learn of its limitations and extra fees or, hopefully, lack of them.

Read: Cell Phones on a Cruise: Everything You Need to Know

5: Understand credit card fees

Venice, Italy

The same cruise advice for first-timers applies to your credit cards, too. Many companies charge a percentage for foreign transactions, while others don’t levy this fee at all. It may not make a difference when purchasing a few postcards to mail back home, but when your souvenir is a handwoven rug or a special bottle of aged rum, that foreign transaction fee can be aggravating.

6: Wear the outfits you never wear at home

One unexpected cruise tip for first-timers is to bring the looks that typically linger at the back of your closet. These outfits might be “too much” for your everyday routine, but a cruise vacation certainly isn’t your everyday.

With the variety of experiences you can have in just one day—from brunch to poolside relaxation, and from onshore exploration to specialty dining on board—there is so much opportunity to express your style.

Rest assured that your fellow passengers will, too. Cruises are a special place for expression, and being at sea brings out a person’s passion and creativity.

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

7: Start a group chat

If you’ve booked your sailing more than a few months ahead, make use of that advanced preparation time by setting up a fun cruise chat with your travel partners. You’ll all want to be on the same page about activity priorities in each port before you board the ship.

For example, if snorkeling in beautiful, clear water is something everyone wants to do, you can agree on what port you’d like to choose for a snorkel excursion, and then book it when reservations open to grab your spot.

Many shore excursions are available for advance booking, and popular choices will fill up, so it is best not to be browsing the options onboard when seasoned cruisers have had their top-choice excursions reserved for months.

8: Under-schedule your first and last days

It’s tempting to drop your bags in your stateroom and rush off to the pool, to dining, or to join one of the many activities offered on embarkation day . However, one of the best cruise tips for first-timers is get your bearings on board first.

Treat the first day instead as a time to unwind, both from your travels and from your life outside of vacation. There is no need to rush—you have the rest of your sailing ahead of you. There is only one beginning of the voyage, and it is best experienced doing exactly what you most feel like doing, whether that is strolling on deck to look for dolphins or heading to the spa for a yoga class.

Read: Cruise Tips From a 20-Year Cruise Veteran

9: Research your ports in advance

Discovery Lounge

If your pre-cruise preparations don’t leave much time to read up on the destinations along your itinerary, there is an easy way to prepare to enjoy the best they offer. Plan to attend the onboard destination seminars which are typically given the day before arriving to the port.

One of the ship’s destination experts will detail what foods, activities, souvenirs, and experiences are absolutely not-to-miss, while also sharing some of the history, geography, and expected weather of the destination. Noting down what interests you have and what tips you glean from the talk will help you decide what excursions to book, while also giving you clues on how to structure your day to make the most of your time in each destination.

Read: Answers to All of Your First-Time Cruise Questions

10: Protect yourself from the sun

Throwing a tub of sunscreen into your luggage is an obvious choice (especially when planning what to pack for a Caribbean cruise ). Since your cruise will take you to a variety of ports, you’ll want to be equipped with multiple forms of sun protection.

Add UV-blocking sunglasses to your essentials, and consider shopping for UVA- and UVB-blocking clothing to wear on days when you plan to be out in the sun for multiple hours. Swimwear and sweat-wicking, lightweight adventure clothing are available in materials that protect your skin from the sun while keeping you cool and comfortable.

11: Pay attention to arrival and departure times

Celebrity Equinox

Of all the cruise tips for first-timers, this advice is crucial to making sure you’re actually able to board your cruise. Always make sure to read the fine print of your cruise ticket that details ship departure and arrival ports.

For example, is your ship departing from the Port of Miami or Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale? If you’re flying, you’ll want to make sure you fly into the city closest to your cruise departure port or ensure transportation is available from your airport of choice to the correct terminal.

Read: Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale With Kids

Even when you’ve got your cities set, there is still the matter of the port terminal. Many ships can dock at a single port, and it can be challenging to direct your taxi to drive around until you spot your ship. Your cruise ticket and contract will specify the departure terminal, such as Terminal 25 at Port Everglades, which is where you’ll find Celebrity Edge homeporting for her Caribbean sailings .

12: Agree on a meet-up spot

Martini Bar

Whether you are traveling with one partner or your entire extended family, it is a great idea to agree on one spot where you meet up before shared activities or major meals.

A popular spot on Celebrity Edge , for example, is the sailing ship model made of pearl strands on the second of the three-floor martini bar, midship. It is easily recognizable, central to all elevators and dining venues, and its location in a multi-level bar means that people-watching while you wait is bonus entertainment.

Read: How to Plan a Cruise for a Large Family

13: Set up your onboard account in advance

Guest Relations

The last place you want to spend your first few hours on your first cruise is in line to ask questions and set up your onboard spending account at the Guest Relations desk. Circumventing this is surprisingly easy and can be done when you check in for your cruise online or in the app.

Connect your credit card to your onboard account to make shipboard charges for everything from beverages and specialty dining bookings to shore excursions and spa treatments. Having your account set up beforehand also eliminates having to revisit the Guest Relations desk at the end of your voyage to settle the balance.

Read: How to Make the Most of the Onboard Spa

14: Learn the lingo

Speaking like a salty sailor is not required during a cruise vacation, but knowing some basic nautical words will be helpful in navigating the ship. To start, familiarize yourself with directional terms like “starboard” (the right side of the ship); “port” (the left side); “fore” (towards the bow/front of the ship); “aft” (towards the stern/back of the ship); and “midships,” (midway between the front and back of the ship).

15: Focus on your wellness

SEA Thermal Spa

Long-time cruisers know that being at sea is the perfect time and place for focusing on yourself to return home refocused, centered, and well-rested. Cruise ships may be known for fun in the sun and their expansive dining options, but today’s ships also feature impressive spas and fitness centers that give guests the equipment, training options, and classes they need to stretch out and work out, meditate, and re-calibrate.

The best way to explore what wellness options your ship has to offer is to tour the spa and wellness center on the first full day when the treatment therapists and personal trainers are open for questions and consultations.

Read: What Is Included on a Cruise?

16: Stay up late and wake up early

Veranda Stateroom

Plan to have one really late night and one early morning—but not one right after the other. Being at sea on a cruise is a special experience, and the changing weather is an important part of it.

To truly appreciate the ocean’s many colors as it reflects the sky, take a stroll on deck with a cup of coffee or tea as the sun peeks over the horizon to start a new day. Breathe deeply, savor the moment, and set your intentions for another spectacular day.

Nighttime at sea is another opportunity to enjoy a unique moment of reflection. With the stars above and the breeze kissing your skin, the rest of the world and its troubles fall away, providing space for self-reflection. Or, you can dress up and explore your cruise nightlife options.

17: Prepare to make new friends

Rooftop Garden

Being outside your home environment, and especially having the unique experience of being out at sea, has the delightful effect of literally and figuratively broadening your horizons. Barriers are broken and defenses are let down, and suddenly you are having a heart-to-heart with someone who becomes your new best friend.

You would have never met if it had not been for this fun cruise , but suddenly you are making plans to do it over again next year (or even sooner). Sharing social media accounts or email addresses is easiest, but never underestimate the romance and whimsy of writing actual letters.

Magic Carpet

With these cruise tips for first-timers, you’re ready to book your first unforgettable cruise vacation. Celebrity Cruises makes it easy for first-time cruisers to experience the delights of destinations far and wide. Book your accommodations, flights, and excursions on celebritycruises.com .

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