30 top tips for first time cruisers

1.Do your research

This may seem obvious, but it’s important to pick a cruise that’s right for you. There are all sorts of different cruises out there, from budget-friendly options to luxurious vessels, and it’s important to pick one that fits your needs and interests.

2.Watch a ship tour on YouTube

Watching a ship tour on Youtube really gives you a great indication of what to expect from your chosen ship. You will be able to see if the spaces, such as the bars, pools and cabins are to your taste. It’s a great way to familiarise yourself with the ship before you embark.

3.Consider a mini cruise

If you are undecided whether cruisers are for you, consider a weekend taster cruise. These cruises are typically shorter and less expensive than traditional cruises, making them a great option for first timers. This is a great way to experience life onboard, without committing to a longer, more expensive cruise.

4.Choose your perfect cruise cabin

Once you have an idea of which cruise line and ship you would like to sail on, it’s time to think about your cabin. For first-time cruisers, I recommend avoiding an inside cabin if you suffer with claustrophobia as interior cabins have no windows. You’ll also miss out on the beautiful views.

I would also recommend avoiding a cabin on a lower deck, as these can be quite noisy (due to the ship’s engines) and can sometimes have a musty smell.

If you’re looking for a bit of extra space, consider booking a suite. These come with plenty of added perks, like concierge service and access to exclusive areas of the ship. However, they can be quite pricey, so it’s important to weigh up whether the extra cost is worth it for you.

There’s so much to do on a cruise ship, from exploring different ports to relaxing by the pool. If you don’t anticipate spending much time in your room, the extra cost of a balcony cabin may be wasted.

Personally, I don’t think there’s a better feeling than being sat on my balcony in the sun, watching the sea pass with a pina colada in hand.

5.Book a midship cabin if you suffer with sea sickness

If you are worried about sea sickness, I would recommend booking a cabin in the middle of the ship. This is because the ship moves less in the middle than it does at the front or back.

6.Scan various cruise websites to find the best deal

Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for, it’s time to start searching for the best deal. I would recommend using a cruise search engine like Cruise1st.co.uk, Cruise118.co.uk and Cruisenation.com as this will allow you to compare deals from multiple cruise lines in one place.

You can also sign up for newsletters from your favourite cruise lines to be the first to hear about their latest deals.

Some of the best deals can be found last minute, so if you’re flexible with your dates it’s worth checking closer to the time of sailing.

It’s also worth considering a repositioning cruise as these are often very good value for money. These are cruises that take place when a ship is moving from one region to another (for example, from Europe to the Caribbean) and they tend to be longer sailings.

If you’re looking for an upscale experience, take advantage of early booking discounts

7.Check covid requirements

before you book

Before booking your cruise, make sure to check the covid requirements for both your country of residence and the countries you will be visiting.

Depending on the cruise line, covid vaccinations may be required in order to embark.

Some cruise lines are now offering covid-tested cruises, which means that everyone onboard will have been tested for the virus before embarking. This is a great option if you’re looking for peace of mind.

Most cruise lines require passengers to have a negative covid test before boarding the ship. Make sure to check the requirements of your chosen cruise line and get tested in plenty of time.

8.Book through a specialist agent if you are a first time cruiser

I would highly recommend using a cruise travel agent to book your cruise, especially if you are a first time cruiser.

A cruise travel agent will be able to advise you on the best cruise line and ship for your needs, as well as help you find the best deals.

They will also be able to answer any questions you have about cruising and help to put your mind at ease.

Cruise travel agents often have relationships with the cruise lines, which means they can sometimes offer exclusive deals and perks.

So, if you’re looking for a stress-free way to book your cruise, using a cruise travel agent is the way to go.

9.Check weather of cruise destinations

One of the most important things to check before booking a cruise is the weather of the destinations you’ll be visiting.

If you’re hoping to spend time on the beaches in the Caribbean, for example, you’ll want to make sure that there isn’t a hurricane season during your time of travel.

The best way to check the weather is to use a reputable travel website like Weather.com or AccuWeather.com.

I would also recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’re travelling, as this will give you an idea of what to pack.

10.Fly or no fly cruise?

Another important consideration when booking a cruise is whether to fly or take a no fly cruise.

A no fly cruise is a cruise vacation that doesn’t require flying to the port city. No fly cruises are becoming increasingly popular as people look for ways to avoid the hassles and expense of flying. And, of course, there’s the added bonus of being able to enjoy a relaxing cruise without having to step foot on an airplane! Some people have a fear of flying, so no fly cruises are a great way to see the world.

A fly cruise involves flying to the embarkation destination, this is a great way to save time if you’re hoping to cruise the Caribbean from the UK.

If you’re looking for a cheaper option, a no fly cruise is usually the way to go.

However, if you’re looking for more flexibility and choice in terms of destinations, a fly cruise is probably the better option.

11.Consider arriving a day before your cruise

If you’re taking a fly cruise, I would recommend booking your hotel stay for the night before embarkation. This is especially important when flying as you’ll need to ensure that if you have any flight delays you won’t miss your cruise.

If you do decide to fly the morning of your cruise, it is recommended to book the first flight of the day to avoid missing embarkation.

Tips for after your cruise is booked

12.Research excursions

Now that you’ve booked your cruise, it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll do when you reach each port.

One of the best things about cruising is that there are so many different activities and excursions to choose from. However, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to decide what to do in each port.

One tip I would recommend is to research the ports in advance and see if there are any ship excursions that are required. For example, if you’re going to be docking in St. Lucia, you may want to consider taking a ship excursion to see the Pitons.

Researching the ports in advance will help you to make the most of your time in each port and ensure that you don’t miss any of the must-see sights.

13.Consider bidding for an upgrade

If you’re hoping to upgrade your cabin, consider bidding for an upgrade. Most cruise lines will give you the option to bid for an upgrade a few weeks, or months before sail date.

When you bid for an upgrade, you’ll be competing against other people who are also hoping to upgrade their cabins. The cruise line will then choose the highest bidder and offer them the upgrade.

Bidding for an upgrade is a great way to get a cabin with a better view or more amenities without having to pay the full price.

Of course, you’ll want to consider the cost of the upgrade before you bid. But, if you’re willing to spend a bit extra, it’s definitely worth considering bidding for an upgrade.

14.Look at purchasing speciality dining package

If you’re hoping to enjoy some fine dining on your cruise, you may want to consider purchasing a speciality dining package.

Speciality dining packages typically include access to a certain number of meals at the ship’s restaurants. These restaurants usually offer higher quality food than the buffet or main dining room.

Of course, speciality dining packages will be an extra cost. But, if you’re hoping to enjoy a nice meal on your cruise, it’s definitely worth considering. Cruise Lines may offer discounted package deals when you book more than one restaurant.

15.Sign up to cruise line’s loyalty scheme

When you book your first cruise, you may want to sign up to your chosen cruise line’s loyalty scheme.

Most cruise lines offer loyalty schemes that allow passengers to earn points. These points can be used towards future cruises or for other benefits, such as onboard credit.

Signing up for a loyalty scheme is a great way to save money on your next cruise. And, it’s also a great way to get other benefits, such as exclusive access to events or restaurants.

So, if you’re planning on taking more than one cruise, make sure to sign up for the loyalty scheme.

16.Get to grips with tips

One of the most important things to know before you cruise is how tips and gratuities work onboard.

Most cruise lines will add a daily gratuity charge to your onboard account. This charge is usually around $10-$12 per person, per day. Some cruise lines such as MSC, have gratuities included in their cruise fare, others offer deals such as $40pp per day for drinks tips and wifi included.

The money from the gratuity charges goes towards the staff’s salaries, who work extremely hard and deserve every penny.

In addition to the gratuity charges, you may also want to leave tips for exceptional service. For example, you may want to leave a tip for your cabin steward, waiter or favourite bar staff if they go above and beyond to make your cruise experience enjoyable.

When it comes to tips, there is no set amount that you should leave. But, a good rule of thumb is to give a few dollars per day, per person.

So, if you’re cruising with two people for seven days, you may want to leave a tip of around $40-$50.

Of course, you can always give more or less depending on the level of service you received. But, this is a good guideline to follow when it comes to cruise ship tipping.

17.Decide on whether or not it’s worth getting a drinks package

If you’re planning on drinking alcohol on your cruise, you’ll need to decide if it’s worth getting a drinks package.

Most cruise lines offer a variety of different drinks packages. These packages typically include unlimited access to certain alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Of course, drinks packages are an extra cost. But, they can be a great way to save money if you’re planning on drinking a lot on your cruise.

To decide if a drinks package is worth it, you’ll need to consider how much you normally drink. If you’re a heavy drinker, then a drinks package is probably a good idea. But, if you only drink occasionally, then you may be better off paying for your drinks as you go.

You should also compare the cost of the drinks package to the cost of the individual drinks. In some cases, it may be cheaper to buy a drinks package than to pay for each drink separately.

Finally, make sure to factor in any discounts or deals that may be available. For example, some cruise lines offer discounts on drinks packages when you book more than one. It will almost certainly be more expensive to add a drinks package onboard, so it’s well worth booking online before you sail.

So, if you’re considering a drinks package, make sure to do your research to see if it’s worth it.

18.How to surf the web on a cruise

If you want to stay connected while you’re on your cruise, then you’ll need to know how to use the ship’s wifi.

Most cruise ships offer wifi packages that allow passengers to connect to the internet. The cost of these wifi packages varies depending on the cruise line and the length of your cruise.

To connect to the wifi, you’ll need to purchase a wifi package. Once you’ve purchased a package, you’ll be given a login and password. You can then use this login and password to access the internet from your laptop, tablet or smartphone.

The speed of the wifi onboard can vary depending on the number of people using it at one time. So, if you’re planning on doing some serious web surfing, it’s best to connect during off-peak times such as early morning or late at night.

If you’re not planning on using the wifi much, then you may want to purchase a lower-priced package. But, if you think you’ll be using the wifi a lot, then it’s worth paying for a higher-speed package.

Some cruise lines also offer wifi packages that allow you to stay connected even when you’re in port. This can be a great way to stay in touch with family and friends while you’re on your cruise.

So, if you want to stay connected while you’re on your cruise, make sure to purchase a wifi package. And, if you’re planning on doing a lot of web surfing, opt for a higher-speed package.

It is a good idea to keep your phone on airplane mode, to ensure that you won’t have any unwanted charges.

If you don’t want to pay for the ships wifi, you will likely be able to find a bar when you’re on land with free wifi.

19.Get to know you daily cruise planer

Your daily cruise planner is your best friend when it comes to planning your days on the ship.

The daily cruise planner is a daily newsletter that is put out by the cruise ship. It contains information on all of the activities and events that are happening on the ship for that day.

The daily cruise planner is essential for planning your days on the ship. It can help you decide which activities to do and when to do them.

Make sure to grab a daily cruise planner as soon as you get onboard. You can usually find them in your stateroom or at the guest services desk.

So, be sure to familiarise yourself with the daily cruise planner. It will help you make the most of your time on the ship.

20.How to make the most of your onboard credit

If you’re planning on using your onboard credit, there are a few things you should know.

First, make sure to spend your onboard credit before the end of your cruise. Any unused credit will be forfeited and you will not be able to get a refund.

Second, use your onboard credit wisely. Don’t waste it on unnecessary purchases. Instead, use it to splurge on something memorable like a speciality dining experience or diamonds from the onboard jewellers.

Third, don’t be afraid to ask for help when it comes to spending your onboard credit. The staff onboard are always happy to help passengers find ways to spend their credit.

So, if you’re planning on using your onboard credit, keep these things in mind. And, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy your cruise.

21.Explore the ship as soon as you embark

As soon as you get onboard, explore the ship. Familiarise yourself with the layout of the ship and find out where all of the important places are.

There are usually maps of the ship available at guest services. Or, you can ask a member of the staff for help.

It’s also a good idea to explore all of the public areas of the ship. This includes the restaurants, bars, lounges, pools, shops and other facilities. I personally like to work from the top of the ship to the bottom, whilst stopping at the buffet for a lunchtime bite to eat.

The sooner you explore the ship, the better. That way, you’ll know your way around and you’ll be able to make the most of your time on board.

So, don’t wait to explore the ship.

22.Sign up for activities in advance or soon after boarding

Some activities on board require sign-ups in advance. So, if there’s an activity you really want to do, make sure to sign up as soon as possible.

You can usually sign up for activities at the guest services desk or at the activity itself. If you have the app downloaded, it is likely you can book activities on this.

If you’re not sure what activities are happening on the ship, take a look at the daily cruise planner. It will have all of the information you need.

So, if you want to participate in an activity, make sure to sign up in advance or soon after boarding the ship. That way, you won’t miss out.

23.Download the cruise lines app

Most cruise lines have their own app that you can download before your cruise.

The app is a great way to stay up-to-date on all of the latest news and information about the ship. It’s also a great way to book activities, check restaurant menus and make dinner reservations.

If you’re not sure if your cruise line has an app, simply do a quick search online or ask a member of the staff.

So, be sure to download the cruise lines app before your next cruise. It will definitely come in handy.

24.Make speciality restaurant reservations as soon as you embark

One of the best things about cruising is the food. There are so many great restaurants onboard that you’ll be spoilt for choice.

If you want to eat at a speciality restaurant, it’s a good idea to make reservations as soon as possible. This is because speciality restaurants are usually very popular and they fill up quickly.

You can usually make reservations at the guest services desk or at the restaurant itself. If you have the app downloaded, it is likely you can book a reservation on this.

So, if you want to eat at a speciality restaurant, make sure to make a reservation as soon as you embark on the ship. That way, you won’t be disappointed.

25.Bring your own drinks on board

If you’re planning on drinking alcohol on board, it’s a good idea to bring your own drinks. This is because the prices for drinks onboard can be quite expensive.

Of course, you can always purchase a drink package. But, if you’re not planning on drinking that much, it’s probably not worth it.

Most cruise lines allow you to bring a limited amount of alcohol onboard with you. So, make sure to check the rules and regulations before packing your bags.

So, if you want to save money on drinks, bring your own onboard with you. Just be sure to follow the rules and regulations.

26.Pack your swimwear in your carry-on bag

If you’re planning on spending time by the pool or at the beach, it’s a good idea to pack your swimwear in your carry-on bag. This is because there can sometimes be a delay in getting your luggage delivered to your stateroom.

Of course, you can always purchase a swimsuit onboard. But, if you’re looking to save money, it’s probably best to bring your own in your hand luggage.

So, if you’re planning on spending time in the water once you embark, make sure to pack your swimwear in your carry-on bag. That way, you’ll be prepared for anything.

27.Ways to remove creases from your clothes

After having your clothes packed in a suitcase it’s likely when you unpack, some items will be creased. If you’re looking for ways to remove creases from your clothes, there are a few things you can try.

Most cruise lines will offer a laundry service, this can be washing, drying, ironing and even dry cleaning services. The cost can vary between cruise lines, however they often offer deals for a bulk amount of items.

If you’re looking to save money, another way is to steam your clothes in the shower. Simply hang your clothes in the shower cubicle, point the shower head away from the clothes and turn the temperature to high. The steam releases the creases from your clothing.

There are now spray products such as Lenor’s Crease Release, which is also a pretty inexpensive way to reduce creases.

28.Store your suitcases under your bed

One of the best ways to save space in your stateroom is to store your suitcases under your bed. This is because most cruise ship cabins can seem fairly small and there isn’t always tonnes of storage space, so storing you cases under your bed frees up a great amount of space.

29.Check dress code for formal night

If you’re not sure what to wear for formal night, it’s a good idea to check the dress code before packing your suitcase. This is because each cruise line has different rules and regulations when it comes to formalwear.

Some cruise lines require men to wear a suit and tie, while others are more relaxed and only require smart casual attire. Women usually have more options when it comes to formalwear, but it’s still a good idea to check the dress code beforehand.

You can usually find the dress code in the Cruise Compass or on the cruise line’s website. So, make sure to do your research before packing for formal night.

30.Seek advice from experienced cruiser

Being a new cruiser, it’s a good idea to seek advice from experienced cruisers. They can help you with things like what to pack, how to avoid getting seasick and even the best places to eat onboard.

There are lots of ways to find experienced cruisers. You can ask your friends and family if they know anyone who has been on a cruise before. Or, you can join cruise-related social media groups and forums and ask for advice there.

So, if you’re new to cruising, make sure to seek out advice from those who have done it before. They’ll be able to help you in more ways than you can imagine.