10 Must-Know Cruise Do’s and Don’ts

Taking a cruise is a fantastic way to get some much-needed rest and relaxation and see some truly beautiful sites in the process. But before you set sail, you’ll want to make sure you know what to expect.

If this is your first cruise, here are 10 cruise do’s and don’ts to help you make the most out of your vacation. Follow These Cruise Do’s and Don’ts For a Great Vacation.

Cruise ship in Caribbean

These cruise do’s and don’ts will ensure that you have a safe, fun time on your cruise. Than, the only thing left to do is book your fun adventure! Be sure to look into our fantastic DIY cruise packages that include everything you’ll need. From travel to onboard activities to offshore excursions, we’ve got you covered.

So book today and prepare to set sail!

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1. Do: Budget Accordingly

It’s a common misconception that choosing a great cruise has to cost the bank. On the contrary, it’s actually a very affordable way to take a vacation and can be more affordable than other popular destinations such as all-inclusive resorts of theme parks.

However, you’ll still want to make sure that you budget for your first cruise accordingly.

When you book your cruise, check whether it’s all-inclusive or if you’ll have to pay for dining and activities. While many cruises are typically the former, it never hurts to check.

And don’t forget to budget for your on-shore activities, too. Excursions are tons of fun, but restaurants near the port tend to charge more than those further inland.

2. Don’t: Forget to Take Advantage of Everything Your Cruise Has to Offer

From activities for younger passengers to nightlife activities like karaoke and dancing, your cruise ship will have tons of activities for you to choose from.

Don’t assume that you can automatically discover everything once you’re onboard.
Instead, do your research. See what activities your cruise offers to take full advantage of your vacation.

3. Do: Arrive at Your Port of Call With Plenty of Time

Start your first cruise on the right foot by avoiding any unnecessary travel stress. Arrive at your port of call with plenty of time to spare.
In general, it’s recommended that passengers arrive at least an hour or two before the ship is scheduled to depart, though the earlier the better.
It’s also important to plan for traffic, especially in larger cities. If you’re departing from a densely populated area like Miami, for example, prepare for some pretty heavy traffic.

In short, treat it like a trip to the airport. The more time you allow yourself, the less stressed you’ll feel.

4. Don’t: Make Phone Calls Unless Absolutely Necessary

The sea isn’t exactly known for being a tech-friendly place. Therefore, you may not have cell phone coverage for the majority of your cruise.
And if you do have cell coverage, you shouldn’t necessarily upload those vacation pics right away.

Call your cell phone provider a few days before you leave and ask about roaming fees. Doing so can help prevent any nasty surprises on your next phone bill.

5. Do: Take Your Vacation Your Way

When it comes to cruises, there are generally two types of passenger: The Doer and The Lounger.

The former wants to get out and experience absolutely everything their cruise experience has to offer. The latter is more inclined to take it easy and just get some much needed R&R time. There’s no “wrong” way to take a cruise, do what you want.

If you want to go out dancing every night, that’s great! If you want to turn in early and watch the sunrise from your cabin, that’s a viable option, too. Don’t feel like you have to do everything. There is plenty of value in just relaxing on the sundeck.

6. Don’t: Assume You Won’t Get Seasick

Ah, seasickness. It’s a nasty problem that affects roughly plenty of men and women, and yet we’re still not quite sure why it affects some and not others. You’ll want to play it safe and prepare for the worst.

Before you set sail, stock up on Dramamine, a common antihistamine medication used to reduce nausea. You’re most likely to experience seasickness on the first day of your cruise while your body is adjusting to the constant motion of the sea.

You may not necessarily feel nauseous, but you’ll feel a whole lot better knowing that you can counter the symptoms if they do pop up.

7. Do: Arrange Activities in Advance

We’re stressing preparation a lot in this article, and for good reason. If you don’t book your onboard activities in advance, they may sell out, and who wants to miss the opportunity to get pampered?

Once you’ve looked over a list of onboard activities, make a list of everything you want to do.

Then, start booking your activities ASAP, so you’ll be able to spend more of your first cruise doing what you love and less time waiting in line.
Often, activities like spa treatments and specialized dining options are the first to go, so the faster you act the better.

8. Don’t: Forget The Sunscreen

If you thought motion sickness was bad, imagine spending the majority of your cruise as red as the lobster you’ll eat for dinner.
Sunscreen is an absolutely vital component of anyone’s carry-on bag.

Before you leave shore, pick up a bottle of sunscreen with the appropriate SPF. If your skin is fairer, you may be more susceptible to burns and may require a higher SPF.

9. Do: Pack For Every Occasion

When packing for your first cruise, be sure to include clothing for just about any occasion.

You wouldn’t want to enjoy a five-star dinner in your lounge clothes. Prepare for anything and everything, even cold weather, and rain.

10. Don’t: Eat During Standard Meal Hours

What’s a cruise without a delicious assortment of food?

To make sure you get your fill of delicious cuisine, it’s best to eat during the off hours. Should you head to the buffet during standard dining hours, you’ll find yourself faced with long lines and a small amount of food to choose from.

Follow These Cruise Do’s and Don’ts For a Great Vacation
These cruise do’s and don’ts will ensure that you have a safe, fun time on your cruise. Now, the only thing left to do is book your fun adventure!
Be sure to look into our fantastic DIY cruise packages that include everything you’ll need. From travel to onboard activities to offshore excursions, we’ve got you covered.

So book today and prepare to set sail!

Author of allcruisehotels, Stefan DP

Stefan, Editor-in-Chief of “I Love 2 Cruise” at www.allcruisehotels.com, discovered his passion for cruising in 1999 with his wife on a Carnival Cruise. Since then, he’s been hooked, reveling in the unique atmosphere, entertainment, and culinary delights of cruise travel. With voyages on 15 different cruise lines, including Azamara and Royal Caribbean, Stefan has sailed to all 7 continents, visited 67 countries, and spent 480 days at sea. He shares his extensive experience and love for cruising through tips, reviews, and port information to help others plan their perfect cruise vacation.

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