Cruising for Beginners: Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Cruise
Wondering how to prepare for your first cruise? I get it, although exciting, the prospect of the unknown can be overwhelming. I was in the same position, I also had so many questions and things I wish I knew before my first cruise.
Because I’ve been where you are, that’s why I’ve put together this cruising for beginners article.
Earlier this year, I went on a cruise for the very first time – it was something I’d always wanted to do, but put off for a variety of reasons – the main one was that I mostly travel solo and on my own agenda. Naturally, I was a little apprehensive. Long story short – I loved it, so much that I’m a cruise convert!
This beginner’s guide to cruising covers loads of questions I had before I went on my first cruise from planning, and life on the ship to disembarkment. Read on and discover all the essential things to know before your first cruise!
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Cruising for Beginners
Are you wondering how to prepare for your first cruise?
If you’re planning your first cruise, you’ve probably got a few ideas already about where you want to go, and activities that best fit your interests and budget.
In this article, I’ll take you through every stage of booking your first cruise. By following these tips, you can make the most of your first cruising experience.
Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Cruise
- Cruises are actually okay for solo travellers: One common misconception is that cruises are only for couples or families. True this was the bulk of travellers, but I was pleasantly surprised to find plenty of events tailored to people travelling on their own.
- Not just for the older travellers: Honestly, I was so anxious about this because there’s a stereotype that cruises are only for older travellers. In reality, there were people in every age group on the cruise and a wide variety of activities and entertainment options that appealed to all.
- Lots of choice: I was able to choose to do as much or as little as I felt like. Whether it was relaxing by the pool, taking part in a class, or exploring the city we were docked in.
- You can find serenity amidst the bustle: Even though cruises can hold thousands of passengers. When I wanted some me-time there were plenty of quieter areas on the ship where where I could find peace and calm.
- Excursions are not the only option: When docked, you don’t have to join the organized excursions. You can do your own thing. I’m used to exploring places at my own pace, I didn’t want the restriction of being in a large tour group. As long as you’re back on the ship by the designated time, it’s up to you what you do each time you dock.
How to Prepare for Your First Cruise
If you’re planning a cruise for the first time, there are plenty of things to consider. Here are my tips on what to look for when booking a cruise;
1. Destination
Do you want to explore the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Alaska? Each destination offers unique experiences and sights. If you’re going on a cruise, research the ports of call and decide which itinerary suits your interests and budget.
2. Cruise Line
Different cruise lines cater to different types of travellers. Some are family-friendly, while others, like Virgin Voyages, focus on adult-only cruises. If you’re booking a cruise for the first time research the cruise line and read cruise recommendations and reviews so you know what to expect.
3. Ship Size
As a first time cruiser, this is important. For my first cruise, I opted for a medium-sized ship. It had a balance of plenty of amenities, but without being overwhelmed by what can feel like a floating city.
4. Cabin Type
There are several cabin types available on cruise ships. The cheapest are interior cabins with no window, mid-range will have a window and depending on the ship, the premium level will include things like suites with balconies.
5. Budget
Before taking a cruise consider your budget and stick to it. Another thing that first time cruisers sometimes overlook is any additional fees, such as gratuities, excursions, and drinks. Be sure to read the small print and check what is and isn’t included.
First Time Cruise Info – Booking Your Cruise
There are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you get the best possible experience. Here are my top cruise planning tips:
Best Time to Book
The best time to book a cruise is generally during the shoulder season for the region you want to visit. Not only can you pick up some great deals, but crowds are generally smaller.
Choosing a Cabin
Decide what type of cabin you want. Interior cabins are the most affordable but don’t have windows or balconies. Balcony cabins are more expensive, but they give you private outdoor space, and of course, a great view.
Understanding Cruise Fares
Most cruise companies have three main types of fares: standard, promotional, and last-minute. Standard fares are the most expensive, but they offer the most flexibility. Promotional fares are often discounted, but they may come with restrictions, such as non-refundable deposits. Last-minute fares are the cheapest, but they are only available close to the sailing date and may come with restrictions.
Packing for a Cruise Tips for First Timers
Out of all the things to know before going on a cruise, what to pack was one of my biggest worries. You want to make sure you have everything you need without overpacking – space is limited.
The good thing is that cruise ships have a laundry service, so if you’re on a long cruise you can get things washed and ironed. You can also pick up items at your ports of call.
In this section, I will cover some essential items you should bring and the cruise dress code.
Essential Items
When packing for your cruise, make sure to bring these essential items:
- Sunscreen – To protect your skin from harmful UV rays
- Seasickness medication – To prevent or alleviate seasickness
- Comfortable shoes – For walking around the ship and exploring ports of call
- Swimsuit – For enjoying the pools and hot tubs onboard
- Formalwear – For formal nights and dinners
- Power strip – To charge all your electronic devices – sockets in rooms are limited
- Reusable water bottle – To stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
Cruise Dress Code
Cruise lines have different dress codes for different occasions. Here are the most common dress codes:
- Casual – Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals
- Smart casual – Khakis, collared shirts, blouses, and sundresses
- Formal – Suits, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, and gowns
Check your cruise line’s dress code policy before packing. Some cruises have theme nights, such as a white party or 80s night!
Onboard Experience
If it’s your first time on a cruise you might be wondering what the onboard experience is like. Let me give you a quick overview of what you can expect.
Dining Options
One of the highlights of a cruise is the food. There are so many dining options available, as well as snack times and afternoon tea – you’ll never go hungry. Most cruises offer a main dining room, with a sit-down meal with table service, others are more buffet style.
The menu changes daily, so you’ll always have something new to try. I’m a vegetarian and was pleasantly surprised with how many options were available for me – I was spoilt for choice.
If, like me, you have any dietary needs make sure to let the cruise line know when you book.
Entertainment and Activities
If you’re on a cruise for the first time you’ll find there’s never a dull moment. There is a packed agenda from live shows to onboard activities including sports, crafts, yoga, dance lessons, cooking demonstrations and more – you name it, they’ll probably have it.
During my first few days on the cruise, I wanted to take part in everything, mostly out of fear of FOMO – it was exhausting, in a good way. But my advice is to pace yourself, especially if you want to do excursions and have the energy to explore when you dock.
Ports of Call
One of the best things about a cruise is the opportunity to visit different ports of call. To make the most of these, I recommend doing some research into each destination before your cruise to make the most of your time at each port.
Planning Shore Excursions
To find out the different shore excursions available at each port, visit the cruise line’s website – sometimes they will send you an online brochure.
You can choose to go on an organised excursion, or depending on what your interests are, you might prefer to plan your own itinerary.
If you opt to do your own thing, a few things to bear in mind are how easy is it to get from the port to the place you want to visit – organise transportation in advance if you need it – also be mindful of how long you have and leave enough time to return to the ship on time.
Local Customs and Etiquette
One of the other things to know when going on a cruise is the local customs and etiquette. This can range from respecting local dress codes, tipping practices, and cultural norms.
For example, in some countries, it is considered rude to wear shorts or sleeveless shirts in public. In others, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a home or temple.
Health and Safety Tips for a Cruise
Before setting sail, it’s a good idea to check your travel insurance policy covers you for any medical emergencies. It’s also a good idea to bring any necessary medications with you, as well as a copy of your medical history and a list of any allergies you may have.
Medical Facilities Onboard
Most ships have a medical centre which is staffed by trained medical professionals. They can provide basic medical care onboard. However, it’s important to note that these facilities are not equipped to deal with serious medical emergencies, and in the event of a serious medical emergency, the ship may need to divert to the nearest port.
Safety Drills
If you’re cruising for the first time, the safety drill can feel a little hectic.
All cruise ships are required to do safety drills before setting sail. These drills are designed to familiarise you with the emergency procedures to ensure you know what to do in the event of an emergency.
When you board, you’ll be assigned a muster station – as part of the safety briefing, you’ll have to take the life vest from your room and go to your muster station on the deck. The whole experience reminded me of being at school, as a register is called to make sure everyone is accounted for. You’ll also be shown where the lifeboats are located and how to use them.
End of Cruise Tips for Beginners
If you’re going on a cruise for the first time there are a few useful things to keep in mind for the disembarkation process. Here’s what to expect.
Settling Your Bill
Before disembarking, you’ll need to settle your onboard account. This includes any charges you’ve incurred during the cruise, such as drinks, excursions, and spa treatments.
To settle your bill, you can either pay with cash or a credit card. Most cruise lines will ask you to register a credit card when you check in and they will charge your card at the end of the cruise. If you prefer to pay with cash, you can settle your account at the reception desk on the last day of the cruise.
Some cruise lines will add a gratuity to your onboard account automatically. This covers tips for your cabin steward, dining room staff, and other service personnel.
Disembarkation Process
On the last day of the cruise, you’ll need to pack your bags and leave them outside your cabin. You’ll be told when to do this and porters will collect your luggage and transfer it back onto land. You’ll also need to vacate your cabin by a specific time so that the crew can prepare it for the next guests.
Once you’ve left your cabin, you’ll need to wait in a designated area until your disembarkation group is called. This is usually based on your flight departure time or the transportation you’ve arranged. Listen to announcements and instructions from the crew.
When it’s time to disembark, you collect your luggage and pass through customs. This can take some time, especially if there are a lot of passengers on the ship.
Beginners Guide to Cruising – FAQs
So far I’ve gone into things to expect, as well as useful tips for going on a cruise for the first time. This section has some frequently asked questions you might still have on what to know before you cruise.
How Long Should My First Cruise Be?
The length of your first cruise depends on your personal preferences and budget. A 3-4 day cruise is a good option for those who want a short getaway or are new to cruising. A 7-10 day cruise is ideal for those who want to explore more destinations and have more time onboard.
How to Choose Your First Cruise?
Here are some tips to help you choose your first cruise. First, figure out your budget and destination. Then research into cruise lines that meet these requirements – it’s a good idea to read reviews before booking.
What Are Some Things to Bring on a Cruise?
Some essential items to bring on a cruise include sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, swimwear, a hat, and a day bag. You should also bring any necessary medications, toiletries, and electronics. It’s important to check the cruise line’s dress code and themed nights and pack accordingly.
Ready for Your First Time Cruise Experience?
I hope this article has given you plenty of insights about cruising for beginners. I know after my first cruise experience earlier this year, I’m certainly keen to book more.
The only question now is to get the ball rolling and book your cruise.
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