You’re booked the cruise and it’s about to set sail. Panic sets in. How do you sail with hundreds of strangers on a ship without losing your sanity?
Travel discounts especially on ships can be pretty enticing. You’ll be tempted to click and book the 3-night Caribbean cruise including expansive food and a cabin for as low as $279.
However, before you confirm your reservations, learn how to travel on a cruise.
#1. Book a Balcony Room
Suites and balcony rooms by default are always the highest-priced rooms on the ship. A few days on the sea can make you crazy since all areas are always occupied by people. To have some peace and quiet to restore your mind and truly enjoy your trip, book a room with a balcony. This way, you can unwind in your own private space.
#2. Reach the Port Early
This is extremely important if you’re travelling from a snowy climate. Your travel plans can easily be hindered by a snowstorm. Therefore, I recommend you reach a night before your cruise sets sail. This way, you’ll also have plenty of time for any last-minute changes that might happen.
#3. Head for the Pool
The best tip that I can give you for your cruise travel is to wear your swimsuit beneath your clothes and dive as soon as you step in. This way, not only will you relax but also have the pool all to yourself as all the guests will be busy unpacking. The luggage usually takes a few hours to reach everyone’s rooms giving you enough time to enjoy your swim.
#4. Read the Newsletter
You’re most likely to receive your newsletter by the time you get your luggage. Read the newsletter to understand the amenities and the activities the cruise has to offer. This way, you’ll be entertained throughout your trip and book all the fun activities before its sold out.
#5. Travel Carefully
You’re most likely to make a few stops for sightseeing throughout your trip. I recommend checking a few spots in the city rather than going to the souvenir or local shops near the dock.
This will allow you to visit more places. The best way to do this is to book a taxi in advance and have it waiting at the dock. You can ask your driver to show you all the spots and even grab lunch in one of the speciality restaurants.
However, it’s best to arrive near the dock two hours before the ship sets sail again. I mean flat tires can happen anywhere…
#6. Eat Wisely
Most passengers get seasick as soon as the ship starts sailing. To avoid feeling nauseated, it’s best to eat less for at least a day. If you’re someone who has a history of feeling nauseated, it’s best to take your doctor’s advice.
#7. Use the Spa Pool
Kids swimming in the pool are cute—as long as they’re yours. Otherwise, enjoying a moment with your partner can become a struggle with the kids shrieking and the DJ blasting the music.
The spa pool is likely not to allow kids and will have soothing music. Additionally, it will be less crowded allowing you to catch up with your partner and enjoy your trip.
#8. Dress Up
Cruises no longer have formal dress codes as they did in Titanic. However, dressing up in your coat will help you feel the grandeur of the high seas. On-board photographers will be happy to click your photographs and include them in their newsletters for free of cost.
#9. Indulge in Speciality Dining
Even if your package includes all meals, it’s not going to cover the costs of speciality dining. For as little as $25 per person extra, you can avoid the crowded buffet and eat in a private booth with your partner. Speciality dining eateries have a limited capacity of 50 people and offer a personalized service.
#10. Don’t Overindulge
You should definitely have a drink with an umbrella (but not ten). It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced drinker but drinking too much will ruin your vacation.
Don’t let the drinks packages lure you—there are plenty of other activities and things to do on a ship than to drink away!
#11. Rejuvenate Yourself
Pamper yourself in the spa. Book a massage or a manicure/pedicure to help you relax. Let the masseuse work on your shoulder knots or hop in the sauna for a while before retiring for the night.
The Takeaway
Booking your first cruise vacation can be exciting but it can quickly become a nightmare if you’re not prepared. Research about your entire trip and be prepared in order to truly enjoy your vacation and get a bang for your buck!
Author Bio: Shristi Patni
Shristi is the founder of F and B Recipes. She enjoys writing about health and wellness, Shamballa Reiki and food recipes. Formerly the Chief Content Officer at Raletta, she is currently working on her second cookbook.
