Planning Your First Cruise? Here’s What You Need to Know
Planning Your First Cruise? Here’s What You Need to Know
So, you’re thinking of going on a cruise? It's a great way to explore multiple destinations in one trip, but there’s a lot to consider before you book your first cruise. From picking the right cruise line to packing efficiently and avoiding extra costs, here’s everything you should know to make the most of your first cruise experience.
1. Determine What Type of Cruiser You Are
Before you choose your cruise line, it’s essential to know what kind of experience you’re looking for. Are you the type of person who loves to relax by the pool with a drink, or do you prefer a more active itinerary with lots of activities? If you’re bringing kids, you’ll want a ship that caters to families. On the other hand, if you want a more peaceful experience with no kids around, you might prefer an adults-only cruise.
When I went on my first cruise, I booked Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas, which is a fantastic ship, but it’s geared towards families and large groups. As someone without kids, I found that I would have enjoyed a quieter, adults-only ship much more. Doing some research into your cruise line’s atmosphere can help you avoid surprises and ensure you pick the right ship for your needs.
2. Understand You’re Experiencing a Filtered Version of These Countries
While a cruise gives you the chance to visit multiple countries, it’s important to remember that you’re seeing a very "filtered" version of those places. As someone who loves to immerse myself in the local culture when I travel, I was disappointed to realize that the cruise experience wasn’t as authentic as I had hoped. Many times, the excursions are curated for tourists, and you're often only seeing the polished, tourist-friendly side of these destinations.
If you’re after a more authentic cultural experience, a cruise might not be the best choice. It’s great for relaxation, seeing beautiful places, and getting a quick glimpse of different cultures, but it’s not the same as traveling independently and truly experiencing a country. If cultural immersion is your priority, I’d recommend considering other forms of travel.
3. Plan Your Onboard Activities to Maximize Your Time
Cruise ships have a lot to offer, but they can get crowded, especially during peak hours. If you want to enjoy all the activities without waiting in long lines, it’s smart to plan ahead. Pay attention to the schedule of events and think about what interests you most.
When I was onboard, I noticed that from about 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., things were pretty busy. Everyone was out and about, going to shows, pools, and other activities. But in the late afternoon, between 3 and 4 p.m., things calmed down. Many people headed back to their rooms to relax or take naps before the evening’s events. By being aware of these quieter times, I was able to do all the activities I wanted without feeling rushed or waiting in long lines.
4. Pack Comfortably (And Don’t Overdo It)
Packing for a cruise can be tricky—you’ll want to be prepared for formal nights, excursions, and lots of time spent in swimwear. When I first cruised, I packed a bunch of dressy outfits for those fancy dinner nights, thinking I’d wear them more than I actually did. What I found was that I spent most of my time in easy-to-wear, comfortable clothes—like flowy dresses, swimsuit cover-ups, and casual outfits that I could just throw on without thinking.
If you plan to do any physical activities or excursions, make sure you pack some activewear too. Even if you don’t intend to work out, activewear is great for things like hiking excursions, fitness classes, or any outdoor activities on board. Plus, it’s really comfortable for just lounging around the ship.
5. Know That You’ll Be Upsold—But You Don’t Have to Buy Everything
Cruise lines are experts at upselling. From specialty dining options to spa treatments, shore excursions, and drink packages, you’ll be offered plenty of opportunities to spend extra money. And while it’s tempting, it’s important to know that there’s plenty to do on board that’s already included in your fare.
If you book during a deal period, like Travel Tuesday or Black Friday, you can often score an amazing deal. But once you’re on the ship, the upselling starts. Don’t feel pressured to sign up for every add-on—they can get expensive quickly. There’s no need to buy every extra experience to have a great time; many of the ship’s best activities are completely free.
6. Bring a Lanyard or Crossbody Bag for Your Key Card
On the ship, your key card is essential for almost everything: getting into your room, buying drinks, booking reservations, and more. The problem is, not all your outfits will have pockets to carry it. I made the mistake of trying to shove my key card into my dress, and it became a hassle. I recommend bringing a lanyard, crossbody bag, or even a small pouch to keep your key card easily accessible. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference.
7. Carry Cash for Tipping and Other Expenses at Ports
While you can tip using your key card onboard, you’ll need cash when you’re in port for tipping local drivers, guides, or for small purchases. Some ports of call may have local vendors offering services like carrying bags, taking photos, or giving you “help” navigating the area. Be aware that these people may expect a tip, and if you’re not prepared, it can cause some awkwardness.
Also, when you book shore excursions through the cruise line, it’s worth noting that there may be additional charges once you get to your destination. For example, during one of my excursions, we were surprised to find out that we had to pay extra for lockers and insurance—even though we thought everything had been paid for. Fortunately, they accepted Apple Pay, but it’s always a good idea to bring a little extra cash just in case.
8. Arrive at the Port City a Day Early
Cruise ships typically depart in the late afternoon or evening, but travel delays are always a possibility, so it’s smart to arrive in the port city the day before. You’ll have a buffer in case anything goes wrong with your travel plans, and you can avoid the stress of rushing to the port. Plus, arriving early lets you enjoy the local area and get settled without the rush of embarkation day.
Most cruise lines will recommend that you arrive at the port city a day early and leave a day late to avoid travel conflicts. This is something to keep in mind when booking, especially regarding your overall budget. If you need to fly to the city you’re departing from, those extra days in the port city can add up. For example, we had to factor in the costs of flights, an Airbnb for the night before we left and the night we arrived back at the port, Ubers, meals, and more. This added around $1,250 to the trip, and while it can vary, it’s worth factoring in those extra costs.
9. Familiarize Yourself with the Ship’s Layout (And Find Hidden Gems)
The first day on board can be overwhelming. Cruise ships are huge, and it’s easy to get lost. When you first board, take some time to explore the ship and familiarize yourself with the layout. Look for dining venues, entertainment areas, pools, and other important locations like the gym or medical center. This will save you time later when you’re trying to find something specific.
Also, a little tip: ships often have hidden gems that aren’t widely advertised. While most people flock to the main areas of the ship, try to explore a bit off the beaten path. On my cruise, we discovered a quiet card and board game room tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main attractions. There was also a peaceful seating area in a less crowded part of the ship that became our go-to spot when we needed a break from the crowds. These little places can make a huge difference when you need to decompress and escape the chaos.
I hope these tips help you have a smooth sailing trip! These are all lessons I learned firsthand, and I’m excited to share them with you. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, I hope this helps you feel more prepared for your cruise. If you have any questions or just want to chat more about cruising, feel free to DM me on Instagram at @creotravels. You can also check out my personal Instagram @kylierenee.e for more visuals from my trip! Enjoy your vacation and happy cruising!
