Cruising 101: A Beginner's Guide to Embarking on Your First Cruise Adventure
Setting sail on a cruise can be a thrilling and unforgettable experience, whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first timer. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through the basics of cruising, from choosing the right cruise line to packing smart and making the most of your time onboard. So, if you're ready to dive into the world of cruising, let's embark on this exciting journey together!
Choosing Your Cruise
It is extremely important to navigate through all of the options before you set sail. In order to choose the cruise that is the best fit it has to suit your interests and preferences. Are you more of a relaxer when on vacation? Do you like to be active and have a lot to do? Are you traveling with your children or with a group? These are all things to consider when planning your first cruise.
Booking Your Adventure
Booking a cruise involves a bit of planning, from selecting the right cruise line, departure date, securing your cabin, etc. In this section, we'll guide you through the booking process, including tips on when to book, understanding cabin categories, and finding the best deals. All of these are things your travel agent can walk you through to completely personalize your experience. It is also thought that there are great last minute deals with cruising. This is simply not true. You actually get the best rates by booking early (travel is all supply and demand so as cabins get booked, the prices actually increase for that sailing) and you are also able to choose the cabin category you want vs what is left over. Once all the details are ironed out and you have a deposit placed, all thats left to do it get excited!
Preparing for Departure
Packing for a cruise can be a bit different from packing for other types of trips. Most of the time you are going to be in comfortable clothes and/or bathing suits and everyone tends to over pack (myself included). Some cruises include a formal night (or if you are like me and just like to dress up on vacay every night is a fancy night) as well so you will need a variety of clothes from formal nights to poolside lounging. Also keep in mind if you are flying that less is more!
Embarkation 101
From arriving at the port to the ship embarking on your cruise is an adventure in itself. When you arrive at the port most cruise lines will have a bag check area. They will take your luggage and deliver it to your stateroom. Disclaimer: this might take a while. Do not rely on having your luggage right away. I suggest bringing a small carry on bag with you on board so you can keep any important items and valuables with you while you wait. There is typically a sail away party of some kind on the pool deck as you sail away from reality.
Life Onboard
Cruise ships are like floating resorts, offering a plethora of activities and amenities. Be sure to check out the daily schedule in the app or on the paper copy that may be placed under your door each night. Discover the various onboard facilities, entertainment options, dining experiences, and relaxation areas that might interest you throughout the day. Be sure to schedule any activities that require booking or reservations as soon as you board so you don’t miss out.
Navigating the Dining Scene
Food is a significant highlight of any cruise, and there's no shortage of dining options. Ship dining varies from buffets to specialty restaurants, which can cost extra depending on the cruise line you are sailing with. There is typically a main dining room where you are given a time to eat each evening, but you can always choose to make a reservation at a speciality restaurant or taken advantage of the many quick serve options aboard. I always suggest previewing the menus before you board so you know if there is any specific dining location you want to try.
Shore Excursions
One of the most exciting parts of cruising is exploring new destinations during shore excursions. I always suggest looking into these BEFORE you sail and if possible get them booked ahead of time. While it is possible to book excursions on board, there may be limited availability. There are always options for EVERYONE!! If you like learning the culture, there are options for unique cultural experiences. If you like to have wild adventures, choose the buggy adventure through the woods. And if you like water sports, choose the snorkeling tour or visit the beach club that includes kayaks and paddle boards. So many options are available.
Staying Healthy and Safe
Your health and safety are top priorities on a cruise. Cruise lines pride themselves on cleanliness and service. They are there to ensure you are comfortable and have anything that you ever need. There are also usually fitness activities available if you don’t want to fall off track while on vacation. Let’s talk about the elephant in the room- sea sickness. Unfortunately this is always a possibility. I always suggest taking dramamine or wrist bands with you while on board. Take some the first day to ensure you have a good start to your cruise and if you feel the need you can continue to take it throughout your trip.
Debarkation
Sadly, as your cruise comes to an end, there are a few important things to know about the debarkation process. First, similar to selecting a boarding time to get on the ship, you will need to select a time to get off the ship. Refer to your travel notes (from your agent or cruise line paperwork) to see their process for luggage. Some cruise lines collect luggage the evening prior to debarkation and it will be waiting at the port right before customs, while other cruise lines have you take your bags with you when you get off.
Embarking on your first cruise is an exciting adventure filled with new experiences and discoveries. Whether you're setting sail to explore exotic destinations or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, the world of cruising awaits you with open seas and boundless possibilities. Bon voyage!
If you would like help planning a cruise (even if you are a seasoned cruiser) reach out to me here. Reminder my services are completely FREE for you!!