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17 Invaluable Cruise Tips From a 20-Year Cruise Veteran

By Sue Bryant

Last updated: November 8th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

Whether you’re planning your maiden voyage or have already sailed the seven seas, you can always get more out of your cruise with some smart advance planning. Here are some cruise tips and tricks for everybody from first-time cruisers to experts.

1: Make Creative Stateroom Choices

Celebrity Cruises Suite

If you’re traveling as a multigenerational group, be creative with the configuration of your accommodation. For example, parents and grandparents would appreciate a private veranda, while kids could have an inside stateroom across the corridor. Consider interconnecting rooms—there are plenty on Celebrity’s ships—or the unfettered luxury of The Retreat , where your family of four could enjoy the comfort and space of a two-bedroom suite.

Take a look at The Retreat if you’re a couple, too, as the extra amenities in this blissful sanctuary make a romantic vacation that much better, from premium beverages to an exclusive restaurant, Luminae , and a serene, private lounge and deck.

Read: How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise

2: Pack Smart

Experienced cruisers have all sorts of cruise tips and tricks for packing , some more unexpected than others. For example, magnets will attach loose pieces of paper, like excursion tickets and party invitations, to your cabin wall. Colorful towel clips will stop your beach towel from flying off your lounger on a breezy day. Compression cubes are perfect for squeezing more into your luggage, while hanging washbags mean you can store toiletries vertically, rather than cluttering the bathroom.

Invest in a travel pill organizer for any meds to avoid packing endless bottles, and a jewelry roll to keep everything together. A USB octopus means you can charge multiple devices from one USB socket, although power extension strips are not allowed. A thermal water flask will keep your drinking water cool all day and is more environmentally sound, as you won’t be discarding half-full plastic bottles once they warm up.

A tote bag is perfect for the beach (if you’ve chosen The Retreat, you’ll find a very chic complimentary one waiting in your suite). If you’re planning kayaking trips or are headed to the Galapagos , where you’ll be zooming around on Zodiacs, a roll-top wet bag keeps valuables dry.

Finally, pack everything you need for the first afternoon of embarkation day in your carry-on, not least swimwear, a cover-up, and sunblock, so you don’t have to wait for your suitcases to be delivered to your stateroom.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

3: Arrive a Day Early

Venice, Italy

If you’re traveling long distance, why not add on a night in a hotel before joining the ship? You’ll be able to enjoy a little local culture on your first night—for example, a stroll through Venice , or fresh seafood in Athens with a view of the floodlit Acropolis—and sleep off some jetlag. You’ll arrive at the port fresh and ready for an adventure at sea.

Read: What Are the Longest Cruises You Can Take?

4: Get to Know the Ship

Camp at Sea

Part of the fun of the first day is exploring your new home, and a wise cruise tip from experienced sailors is to take a self-guided ship tour. This way, you’ll figure out where you want to sunbathe, eat, and relax, find classes you like the look of, and see the array of activities on offer in Camp at Sea.

You’ll be given a map of the ship, or can use your Celebrity app to explore. Start on the highest possible deck and work your way methodically down. You’ll be amazed at how much you learn—which restaurants beckon, the enticing treatments on offer in the aromatic haven of the spa, the best spot from which to enjoy the thrill of sailaway on your first evening.

If you’re traveling as a family with young children, knowing the shortest routes around the ship is always a good idea, as you’ll inevitably be dashing back to your stateroom every now and then for forgotten items.

Read: How to Plan a Cruise for a Large Family

5: Budget for Beverages

Depending on your habits, investing in a beverage package can be one of the best cruise tips to follow. It’s easy on the carefree, sunny days of vacation to enjoy a couple of glasses of wine with lunch, a sundowner as you set sail, more wine with your evening meal, and then some cocktails in the nightclub.

It’s not all about booze; other beverage packages offer non-alcoholic drinks, some cater to kids, and others include just soda or mineral water.

6: Match Your Tech To Your Itinerary

There’s no need to bring an entire mobile office, but think about what you might need at the destinations you’re visiting on your cruise itinerary . In Alaska, binoculars are essential for wildlife spotting, as is a camera with a zoom lens. An essential cruise tip here is to bring a spare battery, as nobody wants a dead camera just as that pod of orcas appears.

You can’t fly a drone from a ship—but some of the tiniest models, for which you don’t need a license, are appropriate for catching those ‘wow’ aerial shots of, say, the Stockholm archipelago, or the dazzling gold and turquoise sweep of a Caribbean beach. Always check, though, whether your mini-drone is legal.

If you’re sailing somewhere tropical and are likely to be snorkeling or diving, consider a GoPro or a waterproof case for your smartphone for underwater shots. For long city tours involving a lot of walking, a heavy camera can be a burden, but a smartphone is perfect for street shots and video.

Read: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

7: Use the Celebrity Cruises App

Celebrity Cruises app

If you haven’t tried the Celebrity Cruises app on previous cruises, now’s the time. On a practical basis, the app makes boarding swifter and allows you to snap up dining and excursion reservations. But it’s fun, too. The in-app calendar is a fantastic tool for scheduling your day, rather than scribbling on the printed daily program.

The chat function is the perfect way to keep track of friends and family on board. You can manage your expenses, too. You can even use your smartphone to open your cabin door or control the lights and shades from your bed.

8: Try a Capsule Wardrobe

St. Petersburg, Russia

If you prefer to travel light, a good cruise tip is to plan a wardrobe that works hard. Each item needs to match other items, so keep the color palette minimalist. One pair of pants, for example, can be paired with any number of floaty tops, or with sneakers by day and strappy sandals by night.

One relatively simple summer dress can be accessorized with statement jewelry, scarves, and different shoes, and worn by day after it’s made an appearance for dinner. Lightweight travelers suggest just three pairs of shoes: one pair for walking, flip flops for the ship, and something more dressy for evening.

Roofdeck Garden

The dress code on Celebrity Cruises’ ships is smart casual throughout, with a couple of Evening Chic evenings per cruise. You don’t need a ball gown or tuxedo for these—although some cruisers nonetheless love stepping out in full sparkle. The reality, though, is that everybody is having too much of a good time to judge what you’re wearing every day.

9: Skip the Travel-sized Toiletries

Small bottles are generally environmentally unsound, so buy a set of reusable travel-sized bottles and decant your favorite products before leaving home if you like to travel with a particular brand. Shampoo, conditioner, liquid soap, and soap bars are provided, in any case.

Royal Suite bathroom

If you are bringing big bottles, like sunblock, double wrap them in plastic. Nobody wants to open their suitcase to a gooey mess. Aromatherapy oils, too, have a habit of leaking, and while tea tree is great for insect bites, and lavender for sleep and soothing sunburn, wrap them tightly unless you want to wander around the ship smelling like an intense herbal aroma.

10: Make Breakfast an Occasion

While the choices in the Oceanview Cafe are undeniably mouth-watering, mix it up a little, especially if you have kids in tow and you’re eating at peak time, when everybody is getting ready to go on tour. Change out the bustle of the cafe for a more serene experience in the main restaurant, where you’ll enjoy table service, made-to-order omelettes, and delicious specials like eggs Benedict or pancakes with maple syrup.

11: Plan Specialty Dining

Lawn Club Grill

You’ll probably be booking several of the specialty restaurants on board, so plan your time wisely. If you’re ashore all day on a long excursion, you’ll most likely be tired, so this might be the night for a quiet dinner in the main dining room.

If there’s a sunset sailaway from somewhere exceptionally beautiful, like Santorini, for example, make that the day you dine at the Lawn Club Grill or the Rooftop Garden Grill on Edge or Apex. If you only choose one specialty experience and you’re cruising with kids, go for Le Petit Chef, a spectacular animation experience that thrills and entertains all ages.

Booking spa treatments early evening, when there’s usually more availability, is tempting, but don’t leave it too late on big evenings like the cocktail hour. On the other hand, on a sailing day, especially if there’s an Evening Chic dress code, soak up some sun, dress up to the nines, and make this your night in Murano, where an elegant outfit matches the beautiful setting.

12: Take Time Out

If you’re a seasoned cruiser and are perhaps revisiting old haunts in Europe , why not take a day off? This is particularly rewarding—and feels slightly decadent—in the heat of the Mediterranean summer, but with so much sightseeing on offer, exhaustion is a real issue. So book a spa treatment for a port day when there are usually special offers, or occupy prime position by the pool, enjoying the sensation of having the ship to yourself, like a luxurious private yacht.

If you do venture ashore, do as the locals do. Sit for hours in a beautiful square with morning coffee and head back on board for a siesta. If your ship has a late sail, take a stroll in port at sunset and stop for aperitivos, followed by a late dinner on board.

13: Document Your Voyage

Most of us take photographs and videos, but thinking of other ways you could document your vacation is one of the best cruise tips to help you remember your vacation. You could pack a sketch pad and pencils and give drawing a try—nobody will judge if you can only manage a stick figure. Try creative writing; sit in some gorgeous waterfront café, or on deck at sunset, and describe what you see. Or try a video app and get creative with micro-movies.

You could even try a sound diary, recording snippets of sound on your phone as a memory—the chatter of dolphins, the cry of a bird, the clackety-clack of a train, the bustle of a restaurant. Ask the whole family for their best shots at the end of the trip and create a photo book. Or collect ticket stubs and other scraps—more of a challenge in the digital age—for a good, old-fashioned vacation scrapbook.

14: Keep the Family Happy

One of the joys of cruising in a multigenerational group is that there’s enough variety on board for everybody. A ship is the perfect environment in which families can scatter, do their own thing, and meet up at an agreed time and place to enjoy quality time together.

For example, your teens might want to visit the Teen Club, while grandparents may head out on a tour while you work out in the gym or relax in the privacy of your veranda. Maybe agree to meet for lunch, or take a couple of fantastic family-friendly excursions . There’s no pressure to do everything as a group, though, and the joy of a cruise ship is that it’s safe for all ages.

Read: Best Cruises for Teens

15: Make Exercise Fun

Celebrity yoga class

If you exercise regularly at home, there’s every possibility on a Celebrity Cruises ship to keep up your routine with some exciting classes. On Edge-series ships, join a high-energy, live-streamed class on the Peloton bikes. Get the whole family signed up for a salsa class, or simply inhale the sea air on an early morning power walk. Use the stairs instead of the elevator. Wear an activity tracker and see if you can hit 10,000 steps a day—it’s really not difficult on a ship.

16: Manage Your Time Ashore

Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires

There are some ports that invite wandering. Mykonos Town and Barcelona , for example, are easy to navigate. Venice is a place to lose yourself among the tranquil canals and alleyways, while Juneau in Alaska is a joy to wander at your own pace or try the friendly public bus service to reach the Mendenhall Glacier.

On the other hand, from Naples , you’ll want to visit the excavations at Pompeii, which is infinitely better with a guide. A tour is a reassuring and more effective way to navigate the teeming chaos of Bangkok. South American ports are trickier if you don’t speak Spanish, and cities like Buenos Aires and Santiago are, in any case, sprawling.

However you spend your day, though, be back on time! Unless you’re on an official excursion, the ship won’t wait.

17: Reinvent Yourself

Martini Bar

Cruising is undeniably exciting and romantic, so let go of your everyday stresses and rediscover the real you. Nobody here knows you, so you can be whoever you like. This is the time for sartorial expression, so let your fashion imagination run wild. At home, you may not sit at a glamorous cocktail bar, sipping a martini and wearing a sparkly dress, or a suave summer tuxedo, but in the elegant setting of a Celebrity Cruises ship, why not?

Push your boundaries, however gently. Boost your adrenaline with a new activity, like zip-lining or a high-speed RIB tour. Stay up insanely late, dancing. Try karaoke. Or get up early, head up on deck, and watch the sunrise. You can always snooze during the day.

Join a class on board and learn a new skill. Meet new people and let them see the you that isn’t encumbered by school runs and office commutes. You may surprise yourself.

Inspired to set sail? The whole world awaits, so start exploring our thrilling destinations and browse itineraries on our website .

Sue has been writing about cruising for 20 years and is lucky enough to have sailed all seven continents. She lives in London, where she is cruise editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers, as well as a freelance contributor to magazines and websites worldwide.

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27 Cruise Travel Hacks Repeat Cruisers Swear By

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If you’re cruising for the first time, you’re probably looking for the best cruise travel hacks. You want to make sure you’re getting the best deal, packing the most important items, plus getting those insider secrets that repeat cruisers know.

In this post, we’ll go through the best cruise tips and tricks that experienced cruisers know, and you should too.

Cruise Travel Hacks: Cruise Tips and Tricks of Veteran Cruisers

1. Book onboard

It may seem funny to start thinking about the next cruise, before this one. However, this is such a good travel hacks, that I want to make sure you remember it! I’ll even remind you at the end.

Booking your next cruise on board, or even putting a deposit on an open booking, has a few great advantages.

Firstly, your cruise line will actually give you money through a generous onboard credit . You’ll also pay a reduced deposit on your next cruise. In many cases, this deposit is as low as $100 per person, which is definitely easier on the pocketbook.

Conditions and even the amounts will vary by cruise line, but in most cases, it’s well worth it!

Related:   How to Get and Use Cruise On Board Credits (OBC)

2. DIY your shore excursions

One of the best and easiest ways to save money while cruising, and not sacrifice your fabulous vacation, is to book excursions privately or consider touring on your own.

There are many cruise ports where you can easily take a cab to close by beaches and attractions. In other cruise ports, you may want to take a tour or go on shore excursion .

With a little bit of research on your cruise ports, it’s fairly easy to visit attractions on your own. For example, in Bermuda our family took a ferry and bus to Crystal Caves. Not only did we save a couple hundred dollars , but we also avoided some of the crowds, which we appreciate.

If you’re cruising to these popular ports, here are some resources to help with your research.

• 21 Most Recommended Things to Do in Cozumel
• 21 Most Recommended Things to Do in Grand Cayman
• 16 Most Recommended Things to do in Bermuda
• What to Do in Aruba on a Cruise
• Best Things to Do In Boston (near cruise port)

3. Buy your shore excursions “on sale” with your cruise line

In reality, while doing an excursion on your own is great, there are times when booking with the cruise line is easier and safer.

So what should you do? Sign up for their emails and sign into your cruise reservation online as soon as possible.

Cruise lines will have sales periodically and it’s common to see 20% off. You may be lucky and find more. Watch for the promotions in your emails as well as in your reservation.

4. Join cruise Facebook groups

This might seem like a funny one, but joining your cruise line’s fan Facebook group (passenger run – not company run) will mean that you get that inside information and cruise news faster than anywhere else!

You’ll get all the recent cruiser tips and sometimes, it can even save you money!

Our Life Well Cruised Facebook community is where we share cruise tips and cruise inspired fun. If you’re on Facebook, come on over.

5. Here’s how to get a cabin upgrade

You may have heard of people getting free cabin upgrades in the past. Truthfully, it doesn’t happen very much anymore.

However, the next best thing to free, is an inexpensive upgrade. Once booked, several cruise lines will offer you a chance, as the sailing gets closer, to bid for an upgrade.

If there’s availability, at some point you’ll get an email from the cruiseline with an offer for you to bid for a cabin in a higher category. It could be an ocean view cabin, balcony, mini-suite or higher categories such as suites. The starting bids are generally very low, and almost always cheaper than if you booked the higher cabin category in the first place.

We met a family of 4 on our last cruise on the Celebrity Summit , who originally booked a regular veranda cabin, and won their bid to be upgraded to a 2 bedroom family veranda. They were thrilled!

6. Fly in or arrive at your cruise port a day early

One of the biggest mistakes new cruisers make is flying in on the same day as their cruise.

When booking a cruise, it may seem like a good idea to arrive on the day of your cruise. After all, the cruise ship doesn’t leave until 4 or 5 pm, right? Seasoned cruisers know that unexpected things can happen on the way to your cruise, especially if you are flying.

On our past cruise, a plane had a rough landing in Newark and this closed the airport for several hours. This resulted in cruise passengers on other planes, being unable to land. The plane actually needed to be diverted to a nearby airport.

We sat next to a couple who told us how they’d arrived at the cruise terminal with only 17 minutes to spare on embarkation day ! Although they made it, they recounted how stressed they were and how it took them a day to recover from this anxiousness as they really thought they’d miss the ship!

Do yourself a favor, and add an extra night at a hotel to your cruise vacation. You won’t regret it.

Cruise tips: Things to do before your cruise

7. book your on board reservations online asap.

While this can depend on your cruise ship, do log into your reservation on the cruise line website and check if you should make reservations ahead of time for shows and dinners.

Very large or Mega ships have this online pre-reservation system so they can accommodate 5000 passengers, and not have everyone showing up at the same time.

On smaller cruise ships, while you don’t need to reserve your shows, it’s often recommended to book dinner time reservations . Do check your booking for your specific cruise information.

8. Pack a cruise carry-on bag

When you arrive at your cruise port, you’ll be dropping your luggage off at the cruise ship. However, your suitcases won’t be delivered to your cabin until several hours after you board your cruise .

Here’s a post I wrote with some advice for what to pack in your cruise carry on bag that might be helpful.

9. Consider buying a beverage package

It’s good advice to buy a beverage package , if you’ll be drinking that value in alcohol and/or soft drinks. Cruise ship drinks tend to be pricey and really add up. You may also want to book a cruise where the drink package is included, such as Celebrity’s “always included” . Princess Cruises also has a Princess Plus cruise fare which is a great value for many.

However, I’ve noticed in cruise Facebook groups, that some people are under the impression that no drinks are available “for free”, or included.

To clarify what drinks are available and included in your cruise price on the majority of mainstream cruise lines, here goes:

In the morning you’ll find a variety of juices, as well as milk, water,  coffee and tea. The rest of the day, buffets usually have unsweetened iced tea, some sort of juice or lemonade, water. coffee and tea.

Soft drinks, water bottles, freshly brewed coffee, specialty coffee, and alcoholic beverages are not included with most cruises. 

You may however, be able to book at get a beverage package as a “perk” or buy a soda, coffee or alcoholic beverage package. Norwegian Cruise Line has the popular “free at sea” promotion , which might be a good option for you.

To find out more, you can check the options with your cruise line or travel agent .

Read more:   Best Way to Book a Cruise: Travel Agent or Direct with the Cruise Line?

Cruise Hacks that will make life easier on your cruise

10. don’t wait for the elevator.

If you can , take the stairs instead of waiting for the elevator, which is probably crowded anyway.

You’ll save some time and ease some of that “cruise-food guilt” you’re bound to have as you indulge throughout the next few days!

Related: How Not to Gain Weight on a Cruise

11. Downy Winkle Release is your friend

I love my little travel size Downy Wrinkle Release. I can avoid sending my clothing items to press by using this and a bit of shower steam if needed. Plus, a little Tide-to-Go is pretty handy as well.

For more cruise packing tips:  25 Cruise Packing Tips all Cruisers Need

12. Bring magnetic hooks and clips (cruise cabin hack)

Did you know that the cabin walls are magnetic? This means that you can decorate your cruise cabin door with magnets if you like, and also create extra storage space by bringing along magnetic hooks and clips.

You might want to hang baseball caps, handbags or light sweaters on the hooks. The magnetic clips are amazing for keeping all your papers, tickets and invitations organized.

For more Cruise Cabin Hacks and some seriously good tips to help organize your cabin, check out THIS POST .

13. Buy the cruise ship internet package

If you think you’ll need wifi and that you’ll be checking emails or want to keep in contact with folks back home, consider purchasing an internet package.

Cruise ship wifi just isn’t the same as back home or anywhere on land. While cruise ships are making strides and there are more affordable options available than in the past, it isn’t free.

14. Easy and natural seasickness remedy

For mild seasickness, grab a green apple (it really works). For real, green apples are used by the crew and passengers alike, perhaps with some crackers, to settle a queasy stomach. Since they are readily available onboard, grab one or two from the buffet to keep in your cabin “in case”.

More seasickness prevention tips:  10 tips to avoid being seasick on a cruise

15. You’ll be in foodie heaven

I know you’ve heard it – cruise food is good! Buffets, cafes, specialty restaurants, and the Main Dining Room.

Typically, the Main Dining Room has some really great options for dinner in particular.

So how do you choose?

The menu will often consist of a few choices of appetizers, main dishes and desserts, which will change from day to day. However, there are some classic choices which will be available every night.

Experienced cruisers know that you can order 2 appetizers, or split a main dish with the table, or even 2 main dishes if you like. The choice is yours.

16. Bring a refillable water bottle

Pack refillable water bottles for you and your family, that you can also take with you at your cruise ports.

In some cases, you can also bring a full case of water bottles. Just bring it to the cruise port, and ask a porter at the embarkation port to slap a sticky luggage tag on it. Do check with the cruise line for their policies and restrictions.

17. Parents, the kid’s club is good!

Seriously, if you have kids, bring them to the kids club so that they can make friends and have some fun activities to do.

If your child is shy, a tip is to visit and register the first day of your cruise, so that you can go in with your child and meet the animators. They’ll feel so much more comfortable and so will you. You’ll likely be surprised at the quality of staff, activities and inviting atmosphere.

It’s a great way for your children to make friends onboard, and for Mom and Dad to have some couple time.

Recommended article:  15 Cruise Embarkation Day Tips Straight from the Pros

Cruise Ship On-Board Specials and Promotions

On your cruise, you’ll notice that some items and services are promoted on certain days during your cruise. While this can vary from cruise to cruise, these are the common things to look out for, in order to take advantage special offers and discounts.

18. Check for embarkation day discounts

Yes, spas will often have specials for booking on the first day, as will internet packages and even specialty restaurants. Check out the various stands set up around the ship on your embarkation day , to see if these offers appeal to you.

Another trick, is to check for specials on port days. Spas in particular are often less busy, so this is a great time to snag a bargain.

19. Shop the “specials” in the cruise shops

Shop the 10$ sale or “last day”  sale for souvenirs to bring home. You’ll find discounted items, t-shirts etc. Do keep in mind this is not usually the same merchandise from the regular ship stores and boutiques.

However, they will have daily specials too, so it is good advice to check the shops and see what you may like. Ask the store clerks when they may be having specials. You would be surprised at some deals we’ve picked up!

On our Regal Princess cruise over the Christmas holidays , there was an amazing special and certain watch brands (50% off as well as additional 10%). My son was very happy with his cruise deal ;-)!

Cruise Hacks for save money on cruises in the future

20. buy public shares in the cruise line (there are benefits).

If this is your first cruise, you may not be ready for this cruise money-saving/money earning strategy yet, but you may be soon.

What are the benefits of owning shares of Carnival Corporation (which encompasses Princess Cruises, Cunard and more), Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean (which includes Celebrity and Azamara)?

There are actually some good benefits beyond the investment itself (do evaluate the risks like any financial investment). While they vary by cruise line, the biggest advantage to owning cruise line stock seems to a a fair size on board credit for each cruise you take with that brand family.

Those who cruise a couple of times or more each year appear to have the most value.

Please note that this is general information, and not financial investment advice.

21. Kids sail free sailings

Parents and families, look out for Kids Sail Free promos as well as promos for discounts on 3rd and 4th passengers. It is the best way for families to have a cruise vacation and benefit from significant savings.

22. Casino at Sea benefits

Did you know, many cruise lines will send casino players future cruise offers at a reduced rate?

Full disclosure, I am not a casino player so I never get casino offers. However, casino goers report getting discounts of 200$ or more on certain cruises, while some are even offered “free” cruises.

Friendly word of caution: Don’t “play” in the casino in hopes of a future discount, as this isn’t guaranteed. It’s also possible that you can lose more than you’ll ever gain.

But if you’re playing anyway, sign up for the emails ;-).

23. Book with a travel agent

Repeat cruisers have a little secret. They often book on-board (see tip above), but have their booking transferred to their favorite travel agent.

Why? Often large cruise travel agencies have lower rates on many cruises, and can offer extra bonuses like on-board credit or specialty dining.

If you haven’t booked on board, you can still shop around (online works) and get some extras and even better pricing.

Do check the rules and restrictions to see if this is right for you.

24. Book early and monitor pricing

Booking your cruise several months to more than a year before your cruise is often the best way to combine saving money on booking a cruise, with getting your preferred cabin and best perks.

Cruise pro secret: book early and monitor pricing and promotions.

Most of the time, cruise lines and travel agents will honor the lower price and new promotions, up until final payment. So, if you see a big cruise sale, check if your cruise is now a “better deal”. If it is, just call your travel agent.

Keep in mind that not all offers combine and that by adjusting to a lower fare, you may lose any perks from a previous promotion. However it’s always worth checking.

Travel Hacking Tips for Cruisers

While it’s great to save money on your cruise, we all know that the travel plans leading up to the cruise can really add up! Here are some travel hacking tips that help to save even more money, pre-cruise.

25. Use reward miles or credit card points for flights or pre-cruise hotel stays

Are you someone who has Air Miles or other points just sitting there? I was!

On our last cruise on the Celebrity Summit, realizing that hotels in the area that I wanted to book were really pricey, I remembered my Air Miles. It was great.

While I had to pay a few dollars in taxes, we had a really nice stay in a Marriott Residence in Meadowlands, Secaucus (I highly recommend if you are cruising out of Cape Liberty, New Jersey or New York) and used up points that were really just sitting there.

In this YouTube video , I go into a greater explanation of 12 Cruise Hacks that Will Save You Money. If you find it helpful, feel free to share it with a cruising friend :-)!

26. Road trip to your cruise port

One of the biggest expenses of a cruise vacation, will likely be the flights. If you’re a family of 4, sometimes the cost of the flights is the same or even more than the cruise itself.

If at all possible, consider taking a road trip and driving to the cruise port. A few hours in the car on the way to a cruise, might even be fun!

27. Use a “Park & Cruise” hotel

If you’ve driven to your cruise port, you might like to park at a hotel and take the shuttle to the cruise port. Some hotels nearby popular cruise ports have an option to Park and Cruise (like Park and Fly).

Since you have to pay for parking a the port anyway, this is often a good value for cruisers.

Tip: Do check to see if this is worth it by comparing the cost of port parking plus hotel, to the Park & Cruise rate. Plus, evaluate your time to see if this suits you on the day you disembark from your cruise .

27 Cruise Travel Hacks Repeat Cruisers Know (and you should too)

We went through cruise tips to save money before and during your cruise, and learned many of the secrets that avid cruisers use to cruise as often as they do.

One of the best cruise travel hacks repeat cruisers use, that literally has the cruise line giving them money, is Tip #1 – booking their future cruise on-board (promised I’d remind you).

I hope that these tips and tricks have been helpful, as you plan for your cruise vacation.

What’s the best tip that you’ve ever learned about cruising? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you’ve found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-)! Please share on Facebook or Pin and save for later on Pinterest (buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

You may enjoy:

30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know

25 most recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise

25 Very Cool Things You Didn’t Know About Cruise Ships

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Hello I’d love to see a video or post on how to pack the hacks i see around the list can be 20-30items long but with NO hack on packing the hacks😆.

Lol I love this Tanya!! Unfortunately it won’t be a “packing light” video, but it can be done. Thanks for the idea – I’ll definitely make a packing video sometime soon-ish and will remember this.

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment 🙂

My favourite hack is how get a “free” ride to the airport. Book your return flight for late in the day, and book a city tour excursion on debarkation, being careful that it offers an airport option. You’ll have to take your luggage on the tour bus, of course. I did this in Fort Lauderdale, had a great tour of the city, then was dropped at the airport where I picked up my rental car for the rest of my vacation.

This is an amazing tip Susan. You’re so right, it’s useful for those with flights late in the day as well. Awesome hack that I will definitely share!

Thanks so much,

We inadvertantly got a free ride back to the airport after the cruise because we were renting a car at the airport for the day. Off the ship at 9am, and didn’t fly out until 9pm. Needed somewhere to go for 12 hours, so for $40, we rented a car and drove around all day..and just grabbed the car rental shuttle to the airport, for free. I never really thought about it, but they didn’t ask us any qualifying questions, so anyone “could” have hopped on that shuttle for a free ride to the airport.

This is awesome Jonathon. So glad it worked out & that you had a great day this way – plus the free shuttle. Thanks for sharing the extra cruise travel hack 🙂

One of my favorite hacks is getting a “free” ride to the airport. When you land, make sure your return flight is late in the day, and book a city tour excursion afterward, making sure it has an airport option. You’ll have to take your luggage on the tour bus, so I did this in Fort Lauderdale, and I had a great time, then got dropped off at the airport to pick up my rental car for the rest of my vacation.

Amazing tip!

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21 Cruise Tips That Will Help Make Your Trip Even Better, According to Experts

Get ready for a trip to remember with these helpful cruise tips from industry experts.

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

Some 30 million people board cruise ships every year to hit the high seas in style. If you’re thinking about becoming one of them, first, congratulations, and second, there are a few things you should know. But not just from us. Here are 21 cruise tips and tricks from insiders to help you have the best sailing of your life . 

Related: 11 Luxury Cruise Lines That Offer Stunning Suites, Fine Dining, and Exceptional Itineraries

Understand what’s included and what’s not before you step aboard.

“Make sure you know what's included before you board your cruise, so you're totally clear on what you've paid for in advance and what you haven't. It may make sense to purchase an all-inclusive beverage package ahead of your sailing — which means less to think about once on board and potential savings depending on how much you imbibe. Windstar, for example, books cruises with rates for cruise-only options or at all-inclusive rates with unlimited beer, wine, cocktails, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. Make the decision that fits your circumstances the best when you're booking, and simply enjoy once you're on board.”  — Chris Dodds, captain on the Star Breeze from Windstar Cruises

Get the lay of the land ASAP.

“When you arrive on the ship, take time to explore each deck so that you know exactly where everything is so that you do not lose time or arrive late to an activity because you got lost. Review the schedules to see when you may be able to avoid lines for certain activities on board. If there are games such as bingo, reviewing the schedule also helps to ensure that you have the right amount of cash for the activity." — Dr. Terika Haynes, owner, Dynamite Travel

For the best en-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship.

“Although our ships offer many amazing views, especially in the comfort of your suite, I personally love the decks located on the back of the ship. Not only are they nice and quiet, but they offer wonderful sweeping views of the ocean or port. Often whales, seals, and dolphins can be spotted at the back of the ship, and a must-see for photographers is the amazing sunsets and sunrises you can catch from this area.”

— Kelly Cochrane, executive chef, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For the best sunsets, head to the observation deck.

“ There are a lot of places you can enjoy the views onboard, but my favorite is the observation deck. Quiet and secluded, the observation deck is a wonderful place for a spectacular view.” 

— Allan Ortiz, head sommelier, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Explore all your shore excursion options.

"Just because your cruise ship offers a shore excursion doesn't mean you need to book the shore excursion with the cruise. I recommend working instead with an experienced travel advisor for your shore excursions in order to make your experience as immersive, private, and unique as possible."

— Andrea Galvez, director and expedition cruise expert, Craft Travel Group

Don’t overlook night time excursions.

“ Some cities are great for soaking up the sun, while others come to life at night – and some have special experiences to offer at every time of day. Do some research ahead of your voyage to find out what can’t be missed, and take advantage of all the time you have in port, especially during a late night or an overnight.”

— Andrea Baigorria, global head of PR and communications, Azamara

And pay close attention to the listed physical activity levels for excursions.

“Pay attention to the described physical activity levels when booking excursions. Many people don't anticipate (or perhaps don't believe it) when a Windstar excursion is marked as ‘strenuous,’ we actually mean it. Many of our guests are active travelers seeking a workout and will gleefully power up a hill on a mountain bike or paddle for hours. But if you're a traveler who is not seeking physical exertion like that on your outing, stick to the easy, easy to moderate, or moderate levels to ensure maximum enjoyment.” — Chris Dodds

Don’t overpack — take advantage of laundry service instead.

“My best packing tip for long trips at sea is to take advantage of the laundry services onboard. Additionally, I recommend limiting the amount of clothes you bring and packing smart. For example, windbreakers are handy in all climates and comfortable clothes for lounging around the suite and enjoying room service are a must.” 

– Kelly Cochrane

And make sure to pack important items in your carry-on luggage.

“A lot of travelers overstuff their checked bags and don't give enough care to what they're carrying in their carry-ons. Keep in mind that it takes at least several hours to deliver your baggage to you. Based on the number of workers onboard and your cabin's position, the time it takes to receive your baggage can range from a few hours to half a day. Due to this, it's imperative to have a day pack that contains everything you'll need right away. Also, don't forget to pack some fun items. Fill a compact carry-on with essentials you'll need quick access to, such as prescribed medicine, contact solution, a set of clothes, swimwear, lotion, sunglasses, and footwear.”

— Sean Harris, managing editor, Family Destinations Guide  

Don’t limit your vacation to the sailing dates.

"Be sure to pick destinations that easily allow for extension trips. For instance, if you visit Antarctica, you can easily visit Patagonia in both Argentina and Chile, as their ports also serve as the gateway to Patagonia. Another example is visiting mainland Ecuador in combination with a cruise around the Galapagos Islands. What's more, some cruises include one night at a hotel before embarking. If the cruise doesn't include this, I highly recommend one night at a hotel before embarking to err on the side of caution due to flight delays.”

— Andrea Galvez

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Share your special moments with the crew ahead of time.

"A great way to make the most of your time at sea, particularly if you’re going to be celebrating a special occasion, is to mention it in advance to your agent/cruise operator. More often than not, you’ll end up with some freebies to make your day extra special, including in-room treats, complimentary upgrades, private picnics, and onboard chefs who are typically happy to show off their creative talents by making a cake."

— Jeremy Clubb, Founder, Rainforest Cruises

And make sure to get to know the crew, too.

“Get to know your crew members – they are from all over the world, and they’ve been all over the world, so they have some amazing stories to tell. They can clue you into the hidden gems of each destination, such as the best local shopping, restaurants, viewpoints, and more. Some of my favorite moments and discoveries across the globe have come from the recommendation of an Azamara crew member.”

— Carol Cabezas, president, Azamara  

Always read the daily itineraries.

“ Keep an eye out for the ever-changing activities and food offerings onboard, especially during sea days. On Azamara, you’ll find these in your Insider delivered to your room daily. You never know when you might find me hosting our guests in one of our restaurants or an incredible local performer out on the pool deck.”

— Ryzsard Gusmann, hotel director on Azamara Quest

Let yourself enjoy a full day at sea.

"My tip to make the most of your time aboard — make sure you have at least one day at sea. Cruises are so destination-focused that travelers often overlook those ‘at sea’ days in the itinerary. But, as the saying goes, getting there is half the fun!”

— Carlos Caicedo, Marketing Manager, Luxury Cruise Connections

John Elk/Getty Images

Tip accordingly. 

“You have two options: you can prepay the tips before the cruise and not worry about that. Some people really like to do that, but some people like to tip based on the quality of the service they received. And so, we normally recommend that you tip the crew $20 per person per day, which is divided among all the crew members, and the guides between $10-15 per person per day. Those are tipping guidelines. We like to recommend to guests that they tip when they’re there because really tipping should be a representation of the quality of the service.” 

— Fernando Diez, marketing director, Quasar Expeditions , 

Have dietary restrictions? Speak directly to the chef.

“On a special diet, or have a food allergy/sensitivity that can make travel difficult? If you haven't been able to adequately address your needs virtually during the booking or pre-cruise process, ask to speak to the chef once on board to discuss your restrictions or requests. Sometimes just having the conversation in person is enough to put any worries at ease, and it will allow the culinary team every chance possible to make your dining experience the best it can be.” 

— Chris Dodds

Book specialty dining as soon as possible.

“Always try to book specialty dining as early as possible. If you wait until you board the ship, the popular restaurants are often sold out or have limited times available. I once waited until the last minute, and the only time available to book the steakhouse was at 5:30 p.m. on embarkation day. That was also the same time the ship was scheduled to sail through the Giudecca Canal in Venice. — Ben Souza, editor, Cruise Fever

Ask about a chef’s table experience.

“If you love immersive culinary experiences, see if your ship has a chef's table. This will likely be a three to four-hour tasting menu with an intimate group of eight to 10 guests led by the chef and sommelier. Only a very small portion of the ship's guests will have the opportunity to take part in these limited events, so book early or inquire with the maître d as soon as you board.” — Lauren Quirk, owner, Travel With Character 

Bring a converter just in case.

“Bring a European travel plug adapter.  Most cruise ships are built overseas, and you'll often find that lots of the outlets both in common areas and even some in staterooms are the European-style plugs.  If you're out and about and want to plug your phone in to charge, an adapter might give you access to many more plugs than other guests.” — Jonathan de Araujo, owner, The Vacationeer

You can’t count on onboard Wi-Fi, so make sure to do all your planning prior to departure.

“The Wi-Fi on ships is slow, unreliable, and expensive. When you're home and have unlimited access to Wi-Fi, plan your port days, so you don't waste the limited time you have in port researching things to do. Find out whether you're able to use Uber/Lyft in the port or find the transportation schedule ahead of time. Buy your museum/attraction/tour tickets in advance.” — Alissa Musto, cruise ship entertainer

Traveling with kids? Try connecting rooms.

“If you have a larger family, check out connecting room options. This has worked out really well for our family with children. Usually, one adult and one or two children can be assigned to each room. This setup allows for some more space and a separate space for the kids to nap while all still being connected.”  — Michelle Schomp, founder, Passport Explorers

Home » Cruises » 32 Cruise Tips for a Better Voyage

32 Cruise Tips for a Better Voyage

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2021

Cruises are different from other kinds of travel. While there is a focus on exploring and relaxation, you’re seeing different places nearly every day. To get the most out of your cruise trip, we recommend doing your homework. Here are our first time cruise tips and tricks. At first, cruising can seem complicated, but these first cruise tips will have you make the most of the experience.

Even if you are not a first timer, you’ll probably learn something here, too. These cruise ship tips work for both beginners and veterans alike.

Cruise Tips for Before Your Voyage

Select the right cruise, money-saving advice on cruises: there is a season, go old school to save money, research activities in ports, check logistics for the ports, focus on the paperwork, have a plan b, what to pack for a cruise, adapters and power strips, snorkel gear, water bottle, beach towel clips, embarkation (getting on the ship), learn the cruise ship, coast guard lifeboat drill, hit the alcohol, best cruise tips for during the voyage, do what you want, cruise ship specialty restaurants, main dining room reservation strategies, eat exactly what you want, alcohol from port, make friends with the crew, hitting the cruise casino, onboard shopping, cruise ship crew gratuities, disembarkation (getting off the ship), leaving the cruise ship, be prepared for lines.

Not all vacations are alike, so do your homework. We focus first on selecting ports and the overall itinerary. There are usually a couple of cruise companies that will visit those ports (a cruise comparison site makes this easy). Each cruise line has a different atmosphere, so pick one that matches your travel style.

We don’t spend a lot of time in our room, so we’re perfectly happy with an inside cabin. If you are prone to motion sickness (like Laura), you should consider a stateroom on a lower deck in the middle of the ship. [Our motion sickness guide has a few other suggestions to help with this common problem.]

There are two cruise seasons in the Caribbean and one in Europe. The summer is peak cruising season in both the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Alaska. In the Caribbean, there is a second season running from mid-November to early-January that covers the holidays. Prices are significantly higher and there are fewer available options at those times.

If you want to save money, wait for when kids head back to school and book your cruise for the shoulder season. You can get trips for as much as 80% less than at high season.

One of the big cruise secrets is that not all boats are equal. Older cruise ships will be significantly cheaper (like as much as 50% cheaper) than the latest and greatest ship. You’ll have fewer features (like the lack of an ice-skating rink), but you’ll save significant money.

Sure you can rely on ship-organized shore excursions, but it is much more rewarding and more cost-efficient to explore independently. The ship’s official shore excursion offerings can give you ideas to research. You should research each port and what there is to do there.

One of our top first time cruise tips and tricks is to independently arrange your own shore activities. You’ll get more time doing the activity and at a significantly cheaper price. Viator is a great site to check for independent tours and options.

Each port is different, so spend some time researching the logistical information. Some ports are walkable, while others require transportation (a rental car, taxi, etc.) to get into the city center. In nearly every port, you can find a taxi (or more likely a shared service) for a price.

Cruising generally involves foreign ports, so make sure your passports and visas (if necessary) are up to date. But don’t overlook cruise paperwork. Those pesky self-printed luggage tags will save you hassle once you get to the cruise ship terminal.

Also, many cruises now require you to check-in online and print out documentation. Review the information from your cruise company carefully. A key first time cruise tip is to have all your paperwork in order before you get to the cruise ship terminal.

Nobody plans to get sick on a cruise, but sometimes things happen. It’s a really good plan to have travel insurance . Your health insurance back home isn’t valid in other countries or an a cruise ship. My parents learned this the hard way when they were on a trip a few years ago and got sick. They didn’t have travel insurance and needed to pay out-of-pocket for medical coverage. Their ailments were minor, but if anything serious happens, you’ll be glad you have it.

This is exactly what happened to us on our Bermuda cruise. We rented a scooter, crashed, and needed significant medical care. Lance ended up with broken toes and spent the rest of the trip alternating between crutches and a wheelchair. Laura had severe “road rash,” which became infected and required IV antibiotics. Our bill was in the thousands, but we had travel insurance! [We provide specific recommendations in our travel insurance guide .]

Electrical outlets in public places (if you can find any) are likely to be the European two-pin kind. This is because most cruise ships are built in Europe. In your room, you’ll likely have a North American plug along with a European plug (many boats spend at least part of the year in Europe). On many boats, electrical outlets are going to be at a premium. You’ll probably only have one or maybe two outlets in your room, so if you’re running lots of devices, that can be a little bit of a challenge.

Consider bringing a European two-pin adapter and also a small power strip or extension device (such as this one ) to extend your number of outlets. Now, the companies don’t like electrical devices, so you need to be discrete.

Many cruise lines will allow you to bring your own alcohol on board—usually two bottles of wine per stateroom—but may charge a corkage fee in the dining room. The fee is typically about $25, depending on the company. Bringing your own wine makes sense if you want to bring a really nice bottle of wine, or if you want to save money.

For instance, a cheap bottle of wine – (less than $10) plus the corkage fee will be cheaper than the cheapest bottle of wine on the dining room menu. Some companies don’t charge a corkage at all. If so, you’re in luck and can save a ton of money on your wine bill. Note that we’ve never encountered a cruise line that allows you to bring on spirits or fortified wine, like port.

We are strong believers in bringing our own snorkel gear with us, particularly Caribbean cruises or Mediterranean cruises. It makes every port with a beach a chance for snorkeling. The idea of renting snorkel gear (and putting your mouth on an unsanitized piece of rubber used by thousands of other people) makes us a little nervous. When you get to a beach, just put on your gear and go! If you are interested in snorkeling, be sure to check our special snorkel equipment guide for more information.

At $4 for a bottle of water, the cost adds up fast. One of our best tips for cruises is to bring your own water bottle . All cruise lines have large dispensers for ice and water (and also free lemonade and iced tea). Just bring your own water bottle and you can fill up for free. The water tastes great and using your own bottle saves on the environment. Plus, it works great for ports too!

One of the stores on the ship will sell basic supplies (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.) if you forget anything. They will also have sunscreen and aloe available – at a significant mark-up. On our most recent cruise, we noticed that sunscreen was going for $22 a bottle. The exact same brand at home costs less than $8. Stock up on sunscreen at home and then you won’t have to hit the cruise ship store.

We have a love/hate relationship with beach towel clips. We hate the idea that some passengers lay out beach towels, try to mark their territory, and then leave for the whole day – essentially depriving other guests the chance to use the chair for the time they are gone. Don’t be those people. A ship isn’t the Jersey Shore.

With that said, beach towel clips can be very helpful. The pool and upper decks on a cruise ship can be very windy on sea days. Having clips will keep the towels from blowing all over the place, or into the ocean (which is something we’ve actually seen).

Most first time cruise travelers tend to significantly over pack for their cruise. If possible, try to pack with a carry-on only. It will let you focus on exactly what you need. For Caribbean cruises, you’re going to spend most of your time in swimsuits and flip flops, which don’t take up a lot of space. Take less than you think you’ll need.

Most cruises will require you wear nicer clothes in the main dining room. Some voyages have formal nights, which require even more formal dress attire. Research your cruise documentation and, it will tell you how many formal nights you’ll have on your trip.

You have two options: if you’re traveling with a carry-on , you can take your own luggage on-board. You can roll right on, drop the bag in your room and have access to everything you might need. If you have bigger bags, you’ll need to leave your bags with the porters at the port.

Note that the porters are employees of the port, NOT the cruise line and they tend to operate on their own schedule. This means you may not have access to your checked luggage for several hours. Put anything of value and anything you might need right away (a swimsuit, sunscreen, etc.) in your hand luggage or a small bag to take with you.

The good news is that all vessels are generally the same. Across the cruise companies, there’s a common layout: A pool on the top deck in the center next to the buffet style restaurant (usually called the Lido) with a pool bar; the multi-level theater is in the front of the ship on the main decks; the main decks (usually decks 4-6) have an open lobby/atrium with several bars around the atrium; the guest services desk is on the lower floor of the open atrium; the primary dining room will be at the very rear of the ship on the main decks; the infirmary or medical facility will be on the lowest level of the boat; etc.

Some ships will have a rock climbing wall, a cooking class, etc., but generally they are all the same floorplan/layout. One of our top cruise tips is to spend about 30 minutes walking around to familiarize yourself with the overall layout once you get onboard.

You’ll probably be hungry. We recommend avoiding the buffet or Lido on the first day. This is a good strategy for avoiding stomach viruses at the beginning of a trip and has the benefit of helping you avoiding the crowds because the buffet is always mobbed with people on the first day.

Instead, heed this top cruise tip and head to the main dining room where you’ll get better food, better service, and less hassle.

Under international maritime law, all cruises are required to conduct a safety drill. In the U.S. and for Caribbean cruises, the U.S. Coast Guard conducts this drill. It’s required. They will do a rollcall. It will take about 40 minutes. It’s boring, but it’s important.

No, we’re not talking about drinking. We’re talking about hand sanitizers. Follow our cruise tips and hit the hand sanitizer stations frequently. You won’t be able to miss them – they are everywhere on the ship.

Each evening, you’ll get a detailed schedule for the following day and a briefing on each port. The port briefing is usually nothing more than a list of stores that have a financial relationship with the company, but it does contain a map, which is very useful. Novice cruisers tend to over-program their trip trying to make the bellyflop competition and bingo and the sailaway cocktail hour and karaoke and the midnight buffet and…the list goes on…

One of our key first time cruise tips is to relax and do just what you want (this applies to solo cruisers too!). You’ll never be able to do everything on the cruise ship, so don’t try. If it is your first time on a cruise, you should do what you want when you want. It’s your vacation!

Your ship will have several specialty restaurants on board. All of them will require you to lay out additional money. These can either be with a specialty restaurant upcharge or via a la carte pricing (just like a restaurant).

Whether these specialty restaurants are good value to you depends on your priorities. We always visit a specialty restaurant at least once per trip. We enjoy the special experience and always love the food. They tend to be our favorite meals each trip.

However, you need to be extremely planful for when you book your specialty restaurant experience. Not every night is the same in the main dining room. Usually twice per voyage, there will be formal nights…and the main dinging room serves better meals (lobster, filet mignon, etc.). If you are a foodie or dining is important to you, consider eating in the main dining room on formal nights and doing your specialty restaurant experience on another evening.

Nothing about cruising is more confusing or generates more frustration than seating for meals in the main dining room. In the past, most cruise lines used set seatings. You had either early seating or late seating, were generally seated at larger tables (four, eight, or ten people) that you didn’t know, and you mingled. It was all kind of stodgy.

The companies got hip to this a number of years ago (and actually listened to customer feedback). These days, nearly every company uses a more flexible system. They now operate the main dining room like a restaurant. Yes, you can still sometimes be paired at a group table (and meeting other people has been a real highlight of our cruising experiences), but you aren’t stuck to rigid times or inflexible options.

One of the things to know for first time cruisers is that you have options! One of our top cruise tips: your very first priority when you get on board is to visit the main dining room and make your reservations for the week. You should have a plan in mind for what night or nights you’ll do specialty dining and then plan around that.

Even better, some cruise lines now let you make your main dining room reservations online in advance or via a specialty app on your smartphone before you even board the ship.

On a cruise ship, you can eat exactly what you want. Don’t like the dining room? Go to the lido. Don’t like any of it? Order room service.

But if you see see several things you like, such as not being able to chose between the lobster or the filet mignon, why not get both? In the dining room (or anywhere else on the ship), you’re not limited to one appetizer and one entree. Also, appetizer and entree sizes may be smaller than you’re accustomed to. So go nuts – order several appetizers or entrees. You’re on vacation.

Cruise ships are essentially floating bars. There’s a tendency to get drinks each time the bartender or pool waiter comes by. Those drink costs add up…a lot. Many first time cruise travelers get caught off-guard by the bill they rack up.

The cruise companies are wise to this and offer beverage packages. You pay a fixed price for sodas or beer or wine or mixed cocktails and you know your costs for the trip. We’ve often found that the alcohol packages aren’t a great value for the simple fact that you’re often not on the boat during the day because you’re in port (and you are paying for the beverage package every single day of the trip). Think carefully about your drinking habits and whether this is a value to you.

If you want to buy alcohol on one of your port stops and take it on board, the security officers will likely confiscate it and hold it until the end of the trip. From experience, this is likely a disorganized system and you can bring the bottle back to your room about 50% of the time. Each company handles this differently, so research carefully and then closely observe how strict that policy is actually enforced.

Crew members are a tremendous resource. They’ve been the ports dozens of times, know all the best spots when you get ashore, know the ship intimately, and have great travel insights. Pick their brains for ideas and cruise tricks.

We have also found that individual crew members have a great deal of latitude in determining whether you will be charged. We’re not suggesting bribing them, however, making friends and being kind can get you free soda, free specialty coffee, and even a miscount in the number of drinks ordered in your favor. The crew members are actually awesome and socializing with them will be one of the highlights of your trip.

The casino is a place of action, particularly on sea days. You’ll find the casino packed with people at almost any hour of the day. However, when you take a cruise for the first time, you’ll learn that the odds are really stacked against you. Cruise ship casino odds are significantly worse than odds at home.

Cruise ship payouts on blackjack are 6-to-5 (3-2 to is standard in most casinos). That increases the houses take by an immediate 1.4%. And imagine playing roulette on a moving boat! On most cruises, you’re best odds of winning are actually at the cruise ship bingo.

If you have an interest in blackjack, poker, or roulette, many of the companies offer free classes on board and you should leave time in your schedule when planning a cruise for the first time.

Most cruise ships have significantly expanded their onboard shopping offerings in recent years. Gone are the days of a single on-board shop selling t-shirts and sundries. These days, most ships offer mini-malls with numerous boutique stores, including ladies and men’s stores, a technology store, a jewelry store, a watch store, and usual an alcohol & tobacco store.

From our our experience, clothing and luxury items (handbags, watches, jewelry, and women’s apparel) are significantly over-priced compared to home. While the ubiquitous “gold-by-the-inch” displays seem like a good value, this is “gold plated” and therefore a poor deal.

However, we’ve found that the duty-free alcohol can be a really great deal. The ship will sell full liter bottles (compared to 750ml at home) for a price 30% less. So, you’re getting 25% more for 30% less. It works out to be a really good deal. You’ll pick up your purchase on the last day of the voyage (or some companies will deliver them to your stateroom).

Tipping the crew for excellent service is both customary and appropriate. Nearly all companies will allow you to pre-pay gratuities (usually at a set rate of $15 o $20 per day). We usually do this because it makes things a lot easier than running all around the ship for the last two days trying to find the crew members to tip them. However, in addition to prepaying gratuities we also usually give certain crew members who go above and beyond a little something extra.

Check your receipts carefully, an extra gratuity is usually included in your bar receipts, room service delivery, or for some on-board services, so you would not give an extra tip in addition to that.

On the final morning, the Lido buffet is likely to be mobbed and chaotic, and room service won’t be available. Our tip for first time cruisers is to go to the main dining room. You’ll get a high-quality breakfast without the madness.

The company will provide you with detailed, fool-proof instructions on how to do this. All cruises employ a group system based on the time of departure/flight information you provided when you checked in. Just go with the flow and follow the instructions, and you’ll be fine. If you notice that the cruise line has not allowed enough time to get off the vessel and make your flight, speak to someone at the guest services desk.

No matter what tips for taking a cruise you might read or hear about, there is just no real solution for the disembarkation process and arrival back in your home port. It is always a chaotic process. And there are usually long immigration lines. The companies have been working with the government to make the process better/faster/simpler, but those changes have been slow in coming. Be prepared to wait in lines when you return from a voyage.

What are your top cruise tips and tricks? What would you tell other first time cruise travelers? Leave a comment below and share your experiences.

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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Elaina D'Agostino

Saturday 4th of February 2023

Thanks for emphasizing that we can order several appetizers or entrees so it's okay even if the serving sizes are smaller than what we're familiar with. That's good to hear because I know we'll be seeing a lot of dishes for the first time when we go on a cruise. I'd love it if we can try all of them at least once as part of the experience.

Jackson Bush

Thursday 25th of July 2019

Its good to know that you should try to only pack a carry-on when going on a cruise. My wife and I are planning on going on a cruise this summer and she was wondering how much she should pack for our vacation. I'll be sure to tell her to pack light for our trip.

Lance Longwell

We ALWAYS pack too much. I think on our last cruise I didn't even use half the shirts I took with me. However, if going tropical, consider packing 1 more swimsuit than you'll think you might need.

Tuesday 25th of June 2019

As a 15 year Senior Officer aboard 22 different cruise ships, your points are very valid... but you lost all credibility when you called them "boats." Just sayin'............

Thursday 27th of June 2019

Thanks Joshua. In the article, we used the terms ship, vessel, and boat interchangeably (and largely for variety). Being an industry insider, you're probably more acutely aware of public perceptions. In technical terms and using the taxonomy, any water-going vessel is a boat. So while all cruise ships are boats, not all boats are cruise ships. But yes, we may want to vary the language a bit more. Thanks for the suggestion.

Friday 22nd of February 2019

I really appreciate your tip to print off all of your documentation before you leave for your cruise to avoid any hassle. My wife and I have been thinking of going on a cruise this weekend so we can celebrate our anniversary, and we are concerned that we won't be able to get all of our papers in order. I will be sure to tell my wife that we won't have to worry if we print them off!

Friday 29th of December 2017

Great tips. One thing we have learned is when in port, if you are going on your own, set the timer on your phone. If you are in port for 8 hours plan to be back to the ship an hour before the ship leaves and set your timer for six hours so you will have plenty of time to get back. This way you don't have to worry about the time on the ship being different. Once your timer gets off you can start moving towards the ship but won't be rushed

Laura Longwell

That's a great tip. Few things are more anxiety-inducing than the idea of not making it back on time.

121+ Tips and Tricks for Cruises: Your Comprehensive Guide

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahoy, fellow sea wanderer! Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or you’re just dipping your toes into the vast ocean of cruise vacations, we’ve got something special for you.

Think of us as your trusty first mate, here to help you navigate the ins and outs of cruising. That’s where this tips and tricks for cruises guide comes in. So, ready to dive deep into the world of cruises? Anchors away! 🌊

Before You Book: Making the Right Choices

Ah, the excitement of planning a cruise! It’s like standing at the edge of a vast ocean, with countless possibilities spread out before you.

But before you dive headfirst into those tempting blue waters, let’s take a moment to consider some key decisions. After all, the right choices now can make all the difference for your voyage.

Choosing the Right Cruise Line and Ship

Each cruise line offers a unique flavor, just like a brand of ice cream. And if you are a vacationing on your first cruise , you definitely will want to do some research!

Some cater to families with a sprinkle of kids’ activities, while others are geared towards couples seeking a romantic getaway. Here’s a scoop on how to choose:

• Itinerary : This is your roadmap! Where do you dream of going? The Caribbean’s sandy shores? Europe’s historic ports? Or perhaps the icy beauty of Alaska? Choose a line that sails to your dream destinations.
• Ship Size and Amenities : Fancy a giant floating city with endless entertainment, or a more intimate vessel that offers personalized experiences? Consider what amenities are crucial for you – from rock climbing walls and water parks to elegant ballrooms and spas.
• Passenger Demographic : Hoping to meet fellow young adventurers, or seeking a more mature crowd? Some lines are known for specific age groups or interests. Research ahead!

Picking the Perfect Cabin

Ah, your home away from home on the high seas! The cabin you choose can greatly influence your cruise experience. Here’s how to pick your cozy corner:

• Type of Cabin : Do you dream of waking up to the ocean’s vastness with a balcony view, or are you fine with a cozy interior cabin that’s easy on the pocket? Weigh the pros and cons.
• Location : Think about proximity to elevators, potential noise levels, and how much motion you might feel. Remember, mid-ship cabins often experience less motion, while higher decks offer stunning views but might be noisier. For a deeper dive, check out the top cabins to avoid .

Understanding Pricing and Promotions

Let’s talk treasure! Securing a good deal can feel like finding a hidden chest of gold.

• Timeframes : Often, booking early or last minute can snag you fantastic deals. Monitor prices, and be flexible if you can.
• Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Offers : Remember, pirates still exist! Ensure you’re dealing with reputable agencies or the cruise line directly.

Alright, shipmate! Now that we’ve covered the basics of booking, you’re well on your way to setting the right course for your cruise journey. Next up: packing! But that’s a tale for another section.

Packing for Your Cruise

Shiver me timbers! Packing can either be a thrilling treasure hunt or a chaotic storm. But fear not, for with our map in hand, you’ll be navigating the packing seas like an old salt.

Whether you’re setting sail for tropical climes or embarking on a chilly polar voyage, we’ve got the compass to guide your suitcase choices through cruise packing tips .

Essential Items to Pack

Every sailor needs their tools, and every cruiser their essentials . Here’s some cruise accessories  that you won’t want to forget:

• Documents : Passports, booking confirmations, travel insurance papers, any required visas, and other documents for cruises . Keep these in a waterproof pouch for safe sailing.
• Clothing : Think layers! Even tropical destinations can have cooler evenings. And remember, some cruises have formal nights, so pack that dapper suit or elegant dress.
• Footwear : Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and a pair of flip-flops for poolside lounging.

Packing Hacks for Limited Space

Your cabin isn’t the size of Davy Jones’ locker, so smart packing is key:

• Roll, Don’t Fold : Rolling clothes can save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Multi-use Items : Think sarongs that double as beach blankets or dresses, or jackets that turn into travel pillows.
• Vacuum Bags : Especially for bulkier items, these can be a lifesaver. But remember, you’ll need to re-vacuum them for the return trip!

Things You Might Not Think to Bring, But Should

Aye, here’s where the seasoned sailors share their secrets:

• Power Strip : With all your gadgets, one or two outlets just won’t do. Ensure it’s cruise-compliant, so you don’t blow any fuses.
• Magnets : Cabin walls are usually metallic. Handy for hanging daily schedules or those postcard-perfect snaps.
• Highlighters : A fun way to mark out must-do activities on the daily schedule.

Hoist the mainsail, and with that packing list, you’re ready to embark with confidence. But wait, before you feel the deck beneath your feet, there’s the all-important first day to consider. Navigate to our next section, where we delve into making the most of your embarkation day through the top tips and tricks for cruising!

Embarkation Day: Starting on the Right Foot

Avast ye! The day has arrived. The sea beckons, the ship looms large on the horizon, and the promise of adventure fills the air.

Embarkation day is your gateway to the high seas, and just like any grand entrance, you’d want to make it smooth and memorable. So, let’s set sail on the right note, shall we?

Arriving at the Port

They say timing is everything, and it sure is when you’re about to start your cruise:

• When to Arrive : Aim to get to the port a couple of hours before boarding starts. This gives you ample time to handle any unexpected hitches. But avoid being too early – you might just end up waiting in line longer.
• Documents at the Ready : Have your booking confirmation, identification, and any necessary visas within easy reach. This will speed up the check-in process and get you onboard faster.
• Luggage Tags : Ensure your luggage is tagged with the cruise tags provided. This ensures they find their way to your cabin without going on their own unscheduled voyage.

Making the Most of Your First Day

Your first day on the all-inclusive cruise ship sets the tone for your journey. Let’s make it count:

• Explore the Ship : Before it sets sail, take a tour. Get your bearings, locate the main attractions, and maybe find a quiet corner just for you.
• Make Reservations : Popular onboard activities, specialty restaurants, or spa appointments can get booked quickly. If you have your heart set on something, reserve it on day one.
• Attend the Muster Drill : This safety exercise is mandatory. Pay attention, understand your assembly station, and get familiar with life jacket procedures.
• Unpack and Settle In : Once your luggage arrives, make your cabin feel like home. Unpack, organize, and maybe even enjoy a drink on your balcony as the ship sails away.

As the sun sets on your first day and the ship’s horn sounds its departure, you’re now officially on your cruise adventure. With the horizon stretching out before you, there’s so much to anticipate.

So, as you sip on that welcome drink, turn to our next section, where the real fun begins – living the cruise life onboard!

Onboard: Living the Cruise Life

All aboard! Now that the shoreline’s a distant memory and you’re surrounded by the vast, mesmerizing expanse of the sea, it’s time to truly dive into the cruise life.

Imagine this: endless activities, gastronomic delights, new friendships, and so much more. But where to start? Grab your sailor’s cap, and let’s delve deep into the heart of your floating paradise.

Navigating Onboard Activities

From sunrise yoga on the deck to midnight dance parties, there’s always something happening:

• Daily Schedules : Most cruise ships offer a daily newsletter or app, detailing the day’s events. Grab one, circle what interests you, and plan your day!
• Try Something New : Ever fancied an art auction? Or maybe a salsa class? Now’s your chance! Delve into activities you might not try on land.
• Relax and Recharge : Remember, it’s okay to do nothing sometimes. Find a quiet deck chair, read a book, and just watch the world go by.

Dining Like a Pro

Ah, the culinary delights of cruising. From burgers to gourmet feasts, here’s how to navigate the gastronomic waters:

• Main Dining vs. Specialty Restaurants : While the main dining room offers a sumptuous spread, specialty restaurants can provide unique culinary experiences for an extra charge.
• Buffet Etiquette : Always wash your hands before diving in. And remember, while it’s tempting, try not to overfill your plate. There’s always another meal just around the corner!
• Finding Quieter Dining Times : If you prefer a more relaxed meal, consider dining during off-peak times. Late breakfasts or early dinners can be much more peaceful.

Staying Connected Onboard

While it’s fantastic to disconnect and immerse yourself in the cruise experience, sometimes you need to touch base with the world:

• Wi-Fi Packages : Most ships offer various Wi-Fi packages. Check the rates and choose one that suits your needs.
• Signal Spots : Some areas of the ship might have better connectivity. If you find a good spot, bookmark it!
• Offline Apps : Download essential apps, maps, and entertainment for offline use before you sail. It can be a lifesaver.

Money-Saving Tips Onboard

Even on the high seas, it’s wise to keep an eye on your treasure:

• Daily Deals : Many ships offer daily promotions on services or products. Keep an eye out for these specials.
• Avoid Unnecessary Expenses : While that photo package or spa treatment might be tempting, think twice and consider if it truly adds value to your experience.
• Track Onboard Spending : Most ships operate on a cashless system, making it easy to spend without realizing. As a top budgeting tip , regularly check your account via the ship’s app or onboard kiosks.

By now, you’re probably living the cruise dream – swaying to the rhythm of the waves, savoring every experience. But remember, the ship is only half the story.

As the next sunrise beckons, prepare to anchor at exotic locales. Curious about the shore excursions? Navigate to our next segment, and let’s explore those fascinating ports of call together!

Ports of Call: Discovering New Shores

Land ho! There it is, a new destination appearing on the horizon, teeming with stories, cultures, and adventures.

As the ship gracefully anchors, you’re on the cusp of a new journey – even if it’s just for the day. Navigating ports of call is an art in itself, and with our guide, you’ll be set to explore, experience, and enjoy every moment ashore.

Preparing for Your Day Out

Before you step onto foreign shores, a bit of prep goes a long way:

• Research Beforehand : Read up on the destination’s history, culture, and key attractions. This ensures you don’t miss out on must-see spots.
• Pack Essentials : A day bag with sunscreen, bottled water, local currency, and any tickets or reservation confirmations is crucial. Don’t forget a map or a guidebook!
• Dress Appropriately : Respect local customs. If you’re visiting religious sites or conservative areas, ensure you’re dressed modestly.

Choosing the Right Shore Excursion

With so many options for a fun cruise , how do you choose?

• Ship-Organized vs. Independent Tours : Ship tours might be pricier but are often more reliable in terms of timing. Independent tours can offer a more localized experience but ensure you’re back before the ship departs.
• Active or Relaxing : Depending on your mood, opt for adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining or more relaxed ones like beach days or city walks.
• Local Cuisine : When in Rome (or anywhere, really)! Don’t miss out on local delicacies. Whether it’s a food tour or just a local café, tantalize those taste buds.

Ensuring Safety and Respect

As a visitor, it’s your responsibility to tread lightly:

• Follow Local Guidelines : Some places have specific tourist guidelines to protect their heritage. Abide by them.
• Beware of Scams : Be alert and cautious, especially in crowded tourist spots. Keep your belongings secure.
• Eco-Conscious Choices : Opt for tours or activities that are eco-friendly and support local conservation efforts.

Making the Most of Limited Time

Often, you have just a day or even a few hours:

• Prioritize : Pick a few key spots rather than rushing through a dozen. Quality over quantity!
• Local Recommendations : Ask locals for their top recommendations. They often know hidden gems that aren’t on every tourist’s radar.
• Savor the Moment : Rather than just ticking off attractions, take a moment to soak in the atmosphere, interact with locals, or simply sit at a café and watch the world go by.

As the sun begins to dip and you make your way back to the ship, your heart is likely full of memories, stories, and perhaps a souvenir or two as a great cruise gift .

Ports of call are the jewels in the crown of any cruise, each offering a unique tale. As you sail towards the next destination, gear up for the final phase of your cruise.

Join us in the next section as we guide you through wrapping up your journey and ensuring a smooth disembarkation.

Evening Entertainment & Nightlife

As the sun sinks into the ocean, casting the sky in hues of pink and gold, your cruise ship transforms. The quiet daytime ambiance gives way to the sounds of laughter, music, and clinking glasses.

Evenings on a cruise ship are magical, offering a plethora of entertainment options that promise to whisk you away into the world of glitz, glamour, and sheer fun.

Whether you are cruising in your 20s or 80s, there is something onboard awaiting you! Let’s dive into the nocturnal wonders that await you onboard.

A Night at the Theatre

Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, and mesmerizing performances:

• Reservations : While some shows might be on a first-come-first-serve basis, others might need reservations. Make sure you book ahead if needed.
• Dress to Impress : Evening shows are a chance to don that fancy outfit. But remember, always check the dress code!
• Arrive Early : Grabbing a good seat can elevate your experience. Plus, some shows have pre-show entertainment you won’t want to miss.

Bars, Lounges, and Nightclubs

Sip, dance, repeat:

• Themed Bars : From piano bars to sports pubs, cruise ships often offer a variety of themed watering holes. Explore them all and find your favorite.
• Dance the Night Away : Nightclubs on ships can rival those on land. Whether you’re into salsa, disco, or contemporary beats, there’s a dance floor waiting for you.
• Drink Packages : If you’re planning on indulging, it might be worth considering a drink package. Just always drink responsibly!

Casino Nights

Try your luck under the stars:

• Know the Rules : Familiarize yourself with the game rules. Some ships might offer free gaming lessons – a great way to start!
• Set a Budget : It’s easy to get carried away. Decide on a spending limit beforehand and stick to it.
• Enjoy the Ambiance : Even if gambling isn’t your thing, the vibrant atmosphere of the casino is worth soaking in.

Special Themed Nights

From masquerade balls to pirate parties:

• Check the Schedule : Cruise itineraries often include themed nights. Knowing them in advance helps you pack appropriately.
• Participation is Key : These events are all about letting loose and having fun. So put on that costume and join the festivities!

Quiet Corners for Romantic Evenings

Not every evening needs to be bustling. Whether you are enjoying your honeymoon cruise or setting sail on your 8th cruise with your loving partner, there are plenty of ways to enhance your experience:

• Stargazing on Deck : Grab a blanket and find a secluded spot to gaze at the vast cosmic tapestry above.
• Wine and Dine : Some ships offer specialty dining under the stars. Book a table and enjoy a serene evening with your loved one.

As the night deepens and the ship sails through silvery moonlit waters, remember that every evening offers a unique story.

Whether you’re laughing at a comedy act, dancing like no one’s watching, or simply sharing a quiet moment with the ocean’s expanse, nights onboard are truly special. Ready for the culmination of your journey?

Staying Healthy & Safe

The gentle sway of the ship, the endless horizon, and the thrill of exploration — while cruising offers a slice of paradise, it’s essential to ensure that your journey remains a healthy and safe one.

The vastness of the ocean might make you feel invincible, but remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Here’s how to cruise with confidence, ensuring well-being for you and your fellow travelers.

Health on the High Seas

Staying in tip-top shape during your cruise:

• Wash Those Hands : This simple act, especially before meals and after public activities, can help prevent a myriad of illnesses. Many ships provide sanitizing stations – make use of them!
• Stay Hydrated : Between sunny decks and night-time dancing, it’s easy to get dehydrated. Keep a water bottle handy and sip regularly.
• Motion Sickness : If you’re prone to seasickness, come prepared. Over-the-counter remedies, wristbands, and even certain foods can help alleviate symptoms.
• Onboard Medical Facilities : Familiarize yourself with the ship’s medical facilities. It’s comforting to know where to go if you’re feeling under the weather.

Safe Exploration in Ports

When setting foot in a new destination:

• Research in Advance : Familiarize yourself with local customs, regulations, and any areas to avoid, ensuring you’re both respectful and safe.
• Stay Aware : While it’s wonderful to get lost in the magic of exploration, always remain alert, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places.
• Group Excursions : If unsure about a destination, consider joining a group tour. There’s safety in numbers, and it can be a great way to see the sights without the stress.

Onboard Safety Protocols

Your floating paradise takes safety seriously:

• Muster Drills : These mandatory safety drills are conducted at the beginning of every cruise. Pay attention, know your muster station, and understand safety protocols.
• Balcony Safety : If your cabin has a balcony, never climb or sit on the railings. Always supervise children.
• Alcohol Consumption : Enjoy your drinks but do so responsibly. Overindulgence can lead to accidents or poor decisions.

Travel Insurance: Your Safety Net

While we all hope for smooth sailing, it’s good to be prepared for the unexpected:

• Coverage Options : Before your trip, invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other potential unforeseen events.
• Documentation : Always have a copy of your insurance details, including the policy number and emergency contact numbers, easily accessible.

A cruise journey is all about relaxation, fun, and exploration. And with these health and safety tips under your belt, you can set sail knowing you’re well-prepared for the voyage ahead. As we approach the end of our guide, let’s move to the final stages of your cruise journey – disembarkation and ensuring that those cruise vibes linger long after you’re back on dry land.

Debarkation: Wrapping up Your Sea Adventure

As the cruise ship begins to approach its final port, a myriad of emotions might flood you: sadness that the adventure is ending, anticipation of your own bed, maybe even excitement for the next trip.

But before daydreaming of your next voyage, there’s the process of debarkation to navigate. Here’s how to ensure that your exit from the cruise ship is as smooth and hassle-free as your entrance.

Preparing the Night Before

A smooth debarkation starts with preparation:

• Packing : Start packing your luggage the night before. Keep out essentials and a change of clothes for the next day. Most cruise lines will ask you to leave your checked luggage outside your cabin door the night before, so they can arrange it for you in the terminal.
• Settle Your Bill : Review and clear any outstanding balances on your onboard account. This prevents any last-minute surprises or delays.
• Know Your Debarkation Time : Cruise ships often stagger guest departure times to prevent overcrowding. Check your assigned time and ensure you’re ready.

Morning of Debarkation

The final morning comes with its own checklist:

• Breakfast : Plan for an early breakfast, whether room service, buffet, or a sit-down meal, based on your debarkation schedule.
• Final Room Check : Ensure you haven’t left anything behind. Look in all drawers, the safe, and especially bathroom areas.
• Customs Declaration Form : If required, fill out this form detailing any purchases made during the trip.

Navigating the Terminal

Back on solid ground, there’s still a few steps before you’re truly on your way:

• Luggage Collection : If you opted for the cruise line to handle your luggage, head to the designated area in the terminal to collect it.
• Customs and Immigration : Be ready with your passport, boarding pass, and any other required documents. Answer all questions honestly and be patient—it’s the final stretch!
• Transportation : Have a plan for how you’re getting home or to your next destination, whether it’s a pre-arranged ride, taxi, or other mode of transport.

Post-Cruise Blues

Yes, it’s a thing. Here’s how to cope:

• Relive the Memories : Share stories and photos with family and friends. Maybe even host a post-cruise dinner with your favorite dish from the ship!
• Plan the Next Adventure : Sometimes, the best remedy for post-cruise blues is to start planning the next one. Even if it’s just tentative, it gives you something to look forward to.

Debarkation, though not the most glamorous part of your cruise journey, is a necessary step to transition back to reality.

And as you leave the ship behind, remember that every ending is a new beginning. Our final segment offers some tips to ensure that the joy of cruising extends well beyond the ship’s deck. Keep those vibes sailing!

Last-Minute Insider Tips

Just when you thought we’d spilled all our secrets, we’ve saved a special stash for last! Every seasoned cruiser has their treasure trove of hacks, shortcuts, and little-known facts that make their voyage even more extraordinary.

As we sail towards the conclusion of our guide, here’s a sprinkle of gold dust to enhance your cruising experience.

Packing Hacks

Because every square inch counts:

• Roll, Don’t Fold : Save space and reduce wrinkles by rolling clothes instead of folding them.
• Shower Cap Shoes : Slip your shoes into disposable shower caps to keep dirt away from your clothes.
• Travel-Sized Spice : Missing a little flavor? Carry a small stash of your favorite spices or condiments. It can transform your onboard meals!

Social Connections

Making the most of your fellow travelers:

• Join Online Forums : Many cruises have associated online groups or forums. Joining beforehand can provide invaluable insights and even help you make friends before boarding.
• Cruise Critic Meet & Mingle : Some cruise lines partner with Cruise Critic for a meet-up event onboard. It’s a fantastic way to meet fellow cruisers and share tips.

Money-Saving Tips

Cruising luxuriously doesn’t have to break the bank:

• BYOB : Some cruise lines allow you to bring a bottle of wine or champagne onboard. Check the cruise policy and enjoy a glass on your balcony.
• Specialty Dining Deals : Cruise lines often offer discounted packages or deals for their specialty restaurants. Keep an eye out, especially on the first night when discounts are most common.

Room Optimizations

Whether or not you opt for a cruise upgrade , you can make your cabin feel like a floating palace:

• Magnet Magic : Cabin walls are usually metallic. Bring along some magnets to hang daily schedules, photos, or any essential paperwork.
• Over-the-Door Organizer : Space is at a premium. An over-the-door shoe organizer can be a lifesaver for storing toiletries, accessories, and other knick-knacks.

Off-the-Menu Secrets

Culinary delights not everyone knows about:

• Ask the Chef : Sometimes, if you’re craving something not on the menu, the chef might whip it up for you if they have the ingredients. Don’t be shy!
• Specialty Coffees at Main Dining : Often, the main dining room will have specialty coffees available that aren’t advertised. Just ask!

Armed with these insider tips and tricks for cruising, you’re not just a cruiser; you’re a cruise maestro. From secret hacks to optimize your room to culinary shortcuts that enhance your dining experience, these tips are the cherries on top of an already decadent cruise cake. As we anchor our guide, remember: every cruise is a blend of preparation, spontaneity, and the magic of the sea.

Happy sailing! 🚢⚓

FAQs on Tips and Tricks for Cruises

What’s included in my cruise fare.

Typically, your fare includes accommodations, meals in main dining areas, some beverages (like tap water, tea, and certain juices), entertainment, and most onboard activities. However, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, excursions, and spa treatments usually come at an extra charge.

Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?

Policies vary by cruise line. While some allow a limited amount of wine or champagne, others might prohibit it entirely or charge a corkage fee. Always check your cruise line’s specific alcohol policy.

Is Wi-Fi available on the ship?

Yes, most modern ships offer Wi-Fi, though the speed and cost can vary. Some cruise lines offer package deals for unlimited usage or daily rates, while others may charge by the minute.

Do I need a passport?

For most international cruises, yes. Even if the cruise starts and ends in the same country, it’s wise to bring a passport for any port stops in foreign countries. Some closed-loop cruises (starting and ending in the U.S.) might accept a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID, but a passport is recommended for its convenience and security.

Are cruises suitable for families with kids?

Absolutely! Many cruise lines cater specifically to families, offering kids’ clubs, family-friendly entertainment, and special accommodations. Always check the amenities and activities for children when booking.

Can I accommodate special dietary needs onboard?

Yes. Cruise ships are adept at handling a variety of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and more. It’s best to notify the cruise line in advance of your specific requirements.

Is there a dress code?

Most cruise lines have both casual and formal dress codes, depending on the venue and time of day. While daytime attire is usually relaxed, evenings might require more formal wear, especially in dining rooms and for special events. Always check your specific cruise line’s dress code guidelines.

How do I pay for onboard expenses?

Most cruise ships operate on a cashless system. Upon embarkation, you’ll set up an onboard account, linking it to a credit card or depositing cash. All onboard expenses (outside of those included in your fare) will be charged to this account.

What happens if I get sick?

Modern cruise ships are equipped with medical facilities and staff to handle common illnesses or injuries. For more serious conditions, they may coordinate with mainland medical facilities or even perform a medical evacuation if necessary.

Are gratuities included?

Policies vary. Some cruise lines include gratuities in the overall fare, while others add them daily to your onboard account. You’re always free to adjust these amounts based on the service you receive.

Can I do laundry onboard?

Many cruise ships have self-service laundry facilities, and almost all offer professional laundry services for an additional fee.

Is smoking allowed on the ship?

Smoking policies vary by cruise line and even by ship within a line. Typically, smoking is restricted to certain designated areas and is prohibited in cabins and on balconies.

How early should I arrive for embarkation?

It’s advisable to arrive at the port at least 2-3 hours before the ship’s departure time. This ensures you have ample time for check-in, security checks, and any last-minute requirements.

Can I bring pets onboard?

Generally, pets are not allowed on cruises, with the exception of service animals. Always check with the cruise line regarding their specific policies on service animals.

Are there fitness facilities on the ship?

Yes, most modern cruise ships are equipped with fitness centers that offer gym equipment, classes, and sometimes even personal training sessions. Some ships also have jogging tracks and sports facilities.

How do shore excursions work?

Shore excursions can be booked in advance through the cruise line or onboard. They range from guided tours to adventure activities. Alternatively, passengers can explore the ports on their own or book tours with local operators.

Is there an age restriction for cruisers?

Most cruise lines require at least one person in each cabin to be 21 or older. However, for passengers traveling with an adult over 25, the minimum age is usually 18. Infants are typically required to be at least 6 months old to cruise, but this can vary, especially for longer or exotic itineraries.

Do I need vaccinations to cruise?

This depends on your itinerary. Some destinations may require certain vaccinations. It’s essential to check well in advance and consult with your doctor or a travel clinic.

Are there facilities for people with disabilities?

Yes, most cruise ships have accessible cabins and provide amenities for passengers with disabilities. However, it’s crucial to notify the cruise line of any specific needs or requests in advance.

What’s the best time to book a cruise for the best deals?

While promotions and deals can pop up anytime, wave season (typically January through March) often sees a surge in promotions. Last-minute deals are also available, though you may have less choice in cabin selection.

How does onboard entertainment work? Do I need to book in advance?

While there’s plenty of free entertainment included in your cruise fare, some shows, especially on larger ships or popular performances, might require reservations due to limited seating. It’s advisable to book in advance, either online before your trip or as soon as you board.

Can I bring my own food and drinks onboard?

While policies vary by cruise line, most allow limited amounts of non-alcoholic beverages and pre-packaged snacks. However, homemade items or open packages might be prohibited.

Do cruise ships sail in bad weather?

Cruise ships are built to handle various weather conditions. While they may alter their itinerary to avoid storms or severe weather, they typically sail rain or shine. Passenger safety is always a priority, and decisions will be made with that in mind.

Is there a limit to how much luggage I can bring?

While there isn’t usually a strict luggage limit, it’s essential to remember that cabin space is limited. It’s recommended to check with your cruise line for any specific restrictions or guidelines.

We hope these additional FAQs provide a deeper dive into the world of cruising, ensuring you’re as prepared as can be for your next sea adventure. Remember, specifics can vary widely based on the cruise line and ship, so always consult your chosen cruise’s official guidelines or customer service for detailed answers.

Best Tips for First Time Cruisers

First Time Cruise Tips

Great for people of all ages, and for all kinds of travellers (from single travellers to couples to groups of friends), a cruise can be an amazing experience.

We are committed to making sure that all first time cruise trips are absolutely unforgettable for all the right reasons: the gorgeous sights you see, the comfort of your room, the fabulous on board food and entertainment, the time spent with your loved ones, and the friends that you make on the way.

We know that heading off on a cruise for the first time can feel a little daunting, but do not worry: our comprehensive list of 60 tips and tricks for first time cruisers will ensure that you are fully prepared for the marvellous adventure ahead.

So read on , to make sure that you have not missed anything out.

Related 116 Tips to Save Money on a Cruise How to Prevent Motion Sickness Essentials to Take on a Cruise

Best Tricks and Advice

1. A little admin goes a long way

Make sure that you know what documentation is required well ahead of the cruise (your cruise company will be able to help you with this if there is any confusion), and most importantly remember to bring all of that documentation with you or you could be denied boarding.

2. Avoid the rush. Try and get onboard earlier – or later – than others

Moreover, if you have accessibility requirements (for example, if you are in a wheelchair), you can ask your cruiseline to get your room ready ahead of time and enable you to board extra early so that you have time to settle in – usually this can be done for no extra fee.

There is usually a big rush to get on the cruise ship on Embarkation Day and if you have not otherwise arranged early embarkation, you can avoid the crowd and queues by either turning up extra early on the day, or hanging around a little having a coffee or some lunch whilst everyone else boards. It’s up to you!

On this note, it’s best to ensure that you are at the embarkation port at least one day before the cruise ship departs – that usually means staying the night in a hotel somewhere close by the port on the evening before Embarkation Day.

You do not want to risk missing the cruise entirely due to a delayed flight or cancelled train.

3. Here’s a tip: take a tip!

When arriving at the port of embarkation, ensure that you have enough $1 bills in your wallet for tipping the porters who helps to carry your luggage and bring it to the ship.

4. Baggage restrictions are much more free and easy!

One of the worst things about taking a flight is packing and repacking your suitcases to ensure that you have not packed too many liquids in your hand luggage and that your suitcases all weigh the right amount.

Even worse – you get hit with a huge fee if you are over the approved limit.

First time cruise goers will be delighted to learn that there are usually no such restrictions on what you can take on a cruise ship. It is wise to be sensible, though: remember that whatever you take on board the ship will need to be taken off and on again multiple times at your various ports of call. It is also advisable to leave some empty space in your suitcases for souvenirs! For this reason, cruise goers tend to be self-limiting when it comes to deciding how much luggage to take on board.

5. You will need to find the right line to check in

When you arrive at the ship to start your first cruise, be prepared to see several different lines for travelers waiting to check in.

For example Diamond Club Members or those travelling in Aqua Class on Celebrity Cruises will have their own (usually fast moving) line, and there will be separate lines for customers who have booked out suites and customers who have booked standard cabins.

6. Book Show, Restaurants and Spa in advance

The good news is that these entertainment activities can be booked in advance well before sailing day either online on the cruise line’s website or over the phone.

7. Get yourself covered

It goes without saying that if you travel anywhere out of your home country, it is crucial to get yourself covered by comprehensive travel insurance.

Make sure that your insurance also covers any sporting activities that you are going to take part in, like snorkeling or diving and any medical conditions that you may have. Families and couples can often get better deals by opting for an insurance package that covers them as a group, so do check this out.

8. Arrive 1 or 2 nights in advance

We’ve already touched on this above, but it bears repeating as we’d hate for your dream holiday to get off to a bad start. So, make plans to be in the port where your cruise ship is going to depart from at least one day in advance of embarkation day .

We actually recommend aiming to get there 2 nights in advance if you can, because then you have some time to rest and properly refresh yourself after your flight or car journey before you embark on your cruise.

When travelling to Europe, why not stay for a few nights in Barcelona or Venice in Italy . When heading to Florida relax a few days before or after your vacation in Miami or in one of the great beach hotels or resorts in Fort Lauderdale .

9. Leave that hairdryer at home!

So some people bring their own hairdryers on board our cruise ships, only to discover that hairdryers are amply provided in cabins, spas, salons, and bathrooms on board.

Free up some space in your luggage by leaving that hairdryer behind.

10. Try and book your shore excursions in advance

These could include wine tasting, museum trips, diving lessons – you name it! Cruise companies provide a handy list of the shore excursions on offer in advance of the cruise, and it is a good idea to book up the ones that appeal to you in advance of your vacation.

Once you are on the cruiseship, you may become inspired to book a few more excursions, and you can still (theoretically at least) book them up at any point during the cruise prior to the excursion.

However, shore excursions can be super popular, so we recommend completing any additional bookings on either the first or the second day of the cruise.

Related Book Shore Excursions

11. Cruise ships have a unique payment method

Keep that American Express card in your wallet, and hang on to your cash.

When you pay for almost anything aboard a cruise ship, the payment will be made using your room key . We think that’s pretty convenient, don’t you?

12. Know what is included in the price of the cruise and what is not

This tip will help you with your budgeting . Almost all cruise ships include a variety of shows as part of the cost of the cruise, for example, and many cruise lines will also provide you with most meals included.

Many additional options – such as spa treatments, special shows, and gourmet dining experiences – will require an additional payment.

Room service is often included in the price of the cruise – something that tends to delight first time cruisers, but some cruiselines ask for an additional fee for room service at night. A full pricing list can be found on the website or once onboard, so take a look at this information.

13. Go to Speciality Restaurants the first day

However, if you plan to enjoy that specialty meal on embarkation day itself, you will find that most of the posh restaurants on the cruise ship are much less crowded. This is because everyone is busy settling in to their cabins and exploring the cruise ship, planning to enjoy that gourmet dinner later on in the cruise.

If you book that meal on the first day, you will find yourself in a delightfully tranquil environment, simply rubbing shoulders with a few old timers who have also realised that this is the best way to beat the crowds.

14. The muster drill is crucial – show up for it

Do you find yourself nodding off during the in flight safety instructions on a plane because you have heard it all before? There is something a little similar on a cruise ship and it is called the ‘ muster drill ‘.

This is a physical activity when all guests must practice assembling at a given location that has been designated as the meeting place in the event of an emergency . You must definitely attend this drill.

Just reading the location of the emergency meeting point in your cabin’s safety information is not enough – in the event of an actual emergency, things can get pretty confused. However, the muster drill enables you to plan your route to the meeting place from your cabin or from your favorite restaurant, and so you will find it much easier to repeat this route much more smoothly and calmly in the event of an actual emergency.

Don’t worry, though, first time cruisers – emergencies on cruise ships are very, very rare!

15. Take advantage of the spa tours

The same goes for visiting the spa. Indeed, many spas will provide special introductory tours for guests on the day you embark.

Spa staff will guide you around and show you the different treatment rooms and explain various treatments. You are able to take a look at the onboard sauna, hairdresser and fitness centre.

16. Head to the pool deck as you depart!

As your cruise ship departs, old timers will know to head straight for the pool.

This is so that they can partake in the unmissable and joyful tradition of the ‘ sailaway party ‘ – make sure to join them as this moment really brings everyone together and fills you with excitement about the amazing adventure that you are about to share together.

17. Be prepared for photos

Your picture probably will be taken at some point (well, several points actually!) during your voyage. First timers are often surprised to find a cameraperson popping up in the middle of their gourmet dinner and snapping their smiling face.

Our advice? Be prepared for this. Cruise ships as a rule will hire professional photographers to roam throughout the ship during the cruise to take snaps of guests enjoying themselves. If you’re really not happy about your photo being taken, you can always say no thank you.

18. When your foot hits that boarding ramp, switch off your phone

Even if you do not use it on the cruise, a switched on cell phone could be silently accruing charges as your roaming data plan hooks you up to the ships network or local networks of the different countries that the ship passes through.

Some cruise ships provide free wifi and others don’t. But, if you want to access your emails we advise using a laptop or tablet, or only switch on your phone when needed.

19. Use Hand sanitizers and wash your hands often

One of the plagues of cruise ships is, unfortunately, the gastroenteritis causing bug known as norovirus . This is because a closed off cruise ship, with a large number of people in close proximity and sharing meals, provides a near perfect environment for norovirus to spread.

Norovirus can spread relatively quickly through cruise ships and it can knock you out for several days. Help yourself and other passengers out by using hand sanitizer before and after meals, and regularly throughout the day.

It goes without saying that you should wash your hands regularly too!

20. Know how to customize your room – be a ‘diva’

On many ships, room service will be included during the day, as we have mentioned.

Here are a few things that we think you should consider asking for from your room steward: extra towels if needed, additional soap, more tea and coffee and ‘ egg crate foam ‘ (don’t worry if you haven’t heard of this, they will know what you mean – this foam is put on your bed to make it comfier).

21. Find out if you can bring alcohol on board

After all, they want to be able to make a profit from their on board bars and restaurants. It can be very nice to enjoy a bottle of wine on your balcony, though, so our advice is to find out what the cruise ship’s maximum limit for your own alcohol is and to bring that maximum amount.

That way, if you do overspend on your budget and realise you can’t really afford the on board bar on the last few nights, you can sip some of your own wine in the comfort of your own room.

22. Find a hotel with parking for cruise customers

Cruise ships tend to depart from and arrive at the same ports again and again. As a result, they have developed strong relationships with certain hotels around their embarkation port.

That means that many hotels will offer special ‘cruise parking’ rates which enable you to leave your vehicle in their car park for the whole duration of your cruise (often provided that you stay in that hotel for the night before departure).

Related Miami Hotel with special parking packages

23. Look for hotels with a cruise shuttle

Many hotels within a certain radius of the port will provide a free cruise shuttle bus (or for a small addtional fee) for getting you to the port on time on the first day.

Shuttles services provided by the cruiseline are much more expensive.

24. Worried about getting seasick? Choose your cabin wisely

This rocking motion is felt most of all around the edges of the ship.

So, you can guard yourself against seasickness by booking a cabin in the middle of the ship (look out for the word ‘midship’ next to the cabin options), or on a lower deck.

25. Planning to drink on board? Look for an all you can drink package

If you like a tipple with your meals and you want to party on your chosen cruiseliner, you may find that you rack up a sizeable bill at the on board bar.

A better option may be to pay for an ‘ all you can drink ‘ cruise package so that you can still enjoy a cocktail or three but without the hefty costs traditionally involved.

Be aware, though, that not all cruise liners will include the drinks in your cabin’s mini bar in this package – and as with hotels, cruise ship staff can be very good about invisibly restocking these bars every day, thus tempting you to raid them time and time again.

26. Every cabin should have a safe – use it

We’d love to be able to trust absolutely everyone on a cruise ship, but unfortunately sometimes items do go missing.

Popping valuables in your cabin safe will guard them against theft.

27. Be nice to the crew!

Should you leave them alone to get on with their job? Our advice is to always be friendly with the crew. Get to know them and chat to them – be nice to them at all times if you see them around!

Cruise ship staff are chosen for their excellent people skills, and most of them adore the job that they do as it enables them to meet new people. Don’t be afraid to have a laugh with them, or to approach them with any questions or needs you may have.

28. Don’t be afraid to switch up your dinner options

Have you ever ordered a dish in a restaurant, taken one bite and realised you don’t like it, but soldiered on regardless because you do not want to inconvenience the chef or pay extra for a different dish?

On a cruise ship, it is totally acceptable to return a dish you don’t like and ask for a new one, so don’t be shy about doing this! You can also order several starters or several mains for yourself if you’re feeling hungry – there’s no limit even if the menu in front of you looks like a strict ‘set menu’ in a restaurant.

29. Let the chef or waiting staff know what you like to eat!

They would surely be delighted to cook it for you and make it available for you to order.

Be aware that they may not be able to do so right away, but usually they will try and make your most favored foodstuffs available for you to order the following day.

30. Does your cruise coincide with a special date? Let the staff know!

Many cruisers book their cruise to coincide with their birthday, or with a special occasion such as a wedding anniversary.

You absolutely must let the staff know about this as cruise shop staff love to go all out with special gifts for your special day, like a song just for you, decorations in your cabin, and a delicious birthday cake.

31. All allergies and dietary requirements will be catered for

Whether you are a vegan, or whether your require gluten free or nut free meals, simply let the staff know.

You can tell them before you travel, or mention it to them at any time once the cruise is underway.

32. Treat yourself to a daytime meal in the main dining room

Cruise ships will provide you with a buffet for breakfast, lunch, and (often) dinner but there will also be a main dining room where you can eat a fancier meal with table service.

Many guests save their main dining room experience for their evening meal, but we definitely advise having your breakfast or lunch there a few times too.

Not too many people do this, and so this can be the best time to beat the crowds and enjoy a delightful lunch or a fancy start to the day with a gourmet breakfast!

33. Want 24 hour room service? It may be an option

As we mentioned above, most cruise liners provide room service throughout the day, and it is often free.

Nowadays, many companies also ask you to pay extra to get room service throughout the night as well if you want those delicious midnight feasts.

34. Your balcony is less secure than other parts of your cabin

Though a private balcony is part of your cabin and it is for your use alone, it is not so secure as the interiors of your rooms.

Do not leave valuables on your balcony – we find that a large proportion of the items stolen on cruise ships go missing from balconies. In addition, balconies can get a little windy and if you leave a pair of sunglasses, a book or a towel on the side it could get blown into the sea!

35. Be aware that other guests can see you on your balcony

Thinking of stepping straight from the shower onto your balcony to enjoy the bracing sea air on your nude body?

It’s time to think twice: not many first timers realise this, but very often you can be seen by other guests when you are on your private balcony.

36. Keep the window of your cabin closed when you are not in

Yes, this keeps your belongings safe from thieves, but it also ensures that the wind does not sneak in to your cabin and leave everything in disarray, or when sailing in the tropics your cabin will heat up or become very humid.

37. Make use of your balcony in the morning

One of the best ways to start your day on a cruise liner is to have your breakfast out on your balcony – trust us!

38. Want to keep up to date with your bill? Simply turn on the TV!

Your regularly updated, personalized bill for your stay on the cruise liner can be accessed via your TV.

39. Running out of clothing? Investigate the laundry services

All cruise liners provide laundry services, but some provide it for free.

Check out if your chosen cruise ship provides free laundry before you travel as this could be very handy.

40. There will be special events on board to keep little ones entertained

It is par for the course for cruise liners to provide events like slumber parties and kids’ film nights to keep the younger members of your family entertained. So, if you’re worried about the effects of sharing a suite with the whole family, you can always schedule a few of these child friendly events so that everyone in the family can enjoy a little time to themselves – and your kids can make new friends into the bargain.

Another option provided on a cruise is to have a qualified member of staff babysit your children for you in your room and keep your kids entertained whilst you adults head to the bar or to a show by yourselves.

41. Looking for romance on board ? Forget the crew

The atmosphere on a cruise ship can definitely be conducive to romance, and we have seen plenty of lovely lasting relationships starting between guests who met on cruises.

Hooking up with a member of the crew is a definite no-no, though. They could lose their job as a result depending on their cruise ship’s policies, and it will also be pretty awkward for you as you will be quite literally stuck on the same boat as them for days and weeks on end after your hookup ends.

42. Stay updated on current events

Cruise ships run daily newsletters which keep guests up to date about upcoming shows and shore excursions, fun little facts about the places you are going to visit, restaurant specials and new cocktails, and little pieces of information about upcoming guests’ birthdays or anniversaries.

If you have a news item that you would like to have included in this daily newsletter, simply get in touch with a member of staff.

43. Sunburn can happen when you least expect it

First timers are often disappointed to find that they get sunburned after a few hours out on their balcony enjoying the cool wind. Our advice is to apply sun cream at the start of each day and to reapply it regularly throughout the day.

44. Follow this one easy tip to stop your towel from blowing away

Add a few towel clips to your luggage (you may not be able to buy them on board the ship) and use them to clip your towel securely to the frame of a deck chair or a similar surface.

45. Find your ‘go to’ den

Cruise ships can be raucous places, filled with a real buzz as everyone kicks back and enjoys themselves to the max. We all need a little down time, though, where we can listen to music, meditate, or read undisturbed.

One item on your agenda when you first board the ship, then, should be to find a quiet spot where you know you can go for a little peace and quiet. That might be your private balcony, or it might be a cosy little cafe tucked away midship.

46. Pack a coat

Even in the tropics, nights can get cold. A warm jacked is an essential addition to your luggage.

47. Smoking is still allowed on many ships

Smoking bans are becoming ever more ubiquitous in indoor spaces such as restaurants and bars. However, many cruise ships are exempt from such bans.

On many cruiseships you will definitely be able to smoke outdoors in a certain area and on some ships still on your balcony.

48. Have a flutter!

Many cruise liners offer on board casinos (though the pay outs are usually smaller than the pay outs for casinos on dry land).

But, you can also participate in a variety of games and quizzes throughout the duration of your trip to get great prizes such as a free spa treatment, a free gourmet meal in the specialty restaurant, or a free shore excursion.

49. Want a second cruise free of charge? Bingo may be the best way to go

Onboard bingo is also your best bet if you want to win a lot of money whilst you travel.

50. Remember that the itinerary is not completely set in stone

Storms at sea, sickness warnings at one of the ports you were due to call at, or the opportunity of more enticing shore excursions at a different port, can all change your itinerary slightly when you are on a cruise.

So, it pays to be a little flexible in your thinking, and to prepare yourself for the possibility that the cruise may involve opportunities and adventures that are different to those advertised on the official schedule.

51. Your ship will not always pull right up into the port

So, instead your cruise ship will drop its anchor some distance from the port itself and a smaller ship (which is called a ‘tender’) will approach the cruise liner and take passengers to the shore or will use it’s own lifeboats.

Sometimes, it is possible for the cruise ship to take you right up to the shore line at a tender port, but sometimes high winds or rough waves can make this too difficult and they need to skip this port of call.

52. Not all ports that you stop at will be designed solely for cruisers

Cruise liners will always try and depart initially from an idyllic port that is ideal for tourists. However, not all of the ports that you stop off along the way will be so idyllic.

Prepare yourself to dock several times at a working port that is home to container ships -such ports can be pretty noisy and not offer the most amazing views (though some guests actually enjoy being amidst the bustle of a working harbour).

53. Don’t arrive late to re-board the ship

The crew of your ship will be very scrupulous about ensuring that everyone is on board before you depart, but don’t keep everyone waiting – don’t be late to re-board the ship as cruise liners have to plan their timings according to tides and weather patterns.

Ships will wait for a short time, but will depart eventually when you won’t show up.

54. A great way to beat the queues and avoid the crowds is to stay on board!

When your ship docks at a new port, there is usually an excited scramble as passengers get ready for their scheduled excursions, or simply prepare for a taste of that dry land, sight seeing, and exotic restaurant meals that they have been hankering after.

Not so fussed about that day’s shore excursions? Why not stay onboard the ship as everyone else leaves it. The staff will always ensure that the spas, restaurants, and other types of entertainment are still running even when the ship is in port. You will have the delicious feeling of having this whole giant cruise liner practically to yourself.

55. You simply must experience the on board show

Cruise ships pride themselves very much on the quality of their shows, and these shows can attract talent from all over the globe. As a result, you can always expect the cruise ship shows to be absolutely excellent and a highlight of your stay. What is more, the shows will be included in the price of your ticket, so there is no excuse to miss out on them!

Find out when they are, and make sure not to schedule anything else for that time of day so that you can experience the unique event that is a show aboard a cruise ship. Shows can include everything from stunning musicals with a professional cast to moody dramas and singalongs.

Dance events and chamber orchestras are also a popular fixture of cruise ships, and there will always be plenty of family friendly options for passengers with kids.

56. Make the effort to make new friends

You can meet people at bingo, at a show, or just sitting in the bar or the restaurant. But, however you choose to do it, once of our major pieces of advice is to make the effort to make new friends as you travel.

Many new friends you make onboard will be friends for the rest of your life.

57. Do not miss out on the sunsets

A sunset at sea is one of the most beautiful things that you will ever experience in your life – trust us!

So, find out the time of day when the sun will be setting and ensure that you are standing at your cabin window or on your balcony, or are out on deck (weather permitting) so that you can see it for yourself.

You will definitely regret it if you spent all of those glorious sunsets inside in the bar, restaurant, or bingo hall. Many cruise ships will enable you to enjoy your meal out on deck as the sun is setting, or sip a cocktail as the sky breaks into a riot of color before the onset of dusk – the perfect beginning to a fun night aboard the cruise ship.

58. Just ask for whatever you need!

Run out of towels? In need of a massage for a pulled muscle? Looking for a babysitter? Feeling super seasick or otherwise uncomfortable and wondering if you can change cabin?

No matter what your needs are, the crew and other staff members are there to accommodate them so just ask for anything it is that you need whilst you are on board.

59. If you cause trouble on the ship, you are at risk of being removed

If you are drunk and disorderly, get into a fight, are caught stealing, or otherwise cause trouble whilst on board the ship, do be aware that you run the risk of being removed from the cruise at the next port.

You and your luggage will be taken off the cruise liner and you will need to get a flight, train, or alternative boat back home. This can be mighty inconvenient, so the solution is crystal clear: have a drink and a laugh, but never get aggressive or be rude to staff members or other guests, and do not commit any crimes whilst on board the ship.

60. Be savvy about what you pack in your hand luggage

Here’s one final thing that first timers are not always aware of: cruise ship companies very often require passengers to deliver up the majority of their luggage the night before the voyage ends.

This enables them to load all luggage in to the respective areas and to enable the ship to make an efficient disembarkation. As a result, on disembarkation day, guests will very often disembark with just their hand luggage in their hands – the remainder of their luggage will await them in the cruise terminal.

This means that you will need to be careful about what you include in your hand luggage. Think about what you will need for the night before disembarkation, and the next morning itself: passports, medicines, essential cosmetics, and other items like that will surely be needed in your hand luggage rather than in the luggage you drop off in the hallway the night before.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your first cruise to the fullest of the full.

This guide has provided you with a comprehensive list of all of the things that you need to be aware of before your first time on a cruise ship . We wish you a fantastic cruise !

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Cruise Tips, Tricks and Secrets

CruiseMapper's "cruise tips and tricks" article provides useful information for first-timers planning their future voyages. Cruise tips and tricks are also handy onboard the liner - to keep you away from mishaps and bad (" Cruise Minus ") experiences at sea and in ports.

This page is integrated with CruiseMapper's "tips and tricks" pages with information specifically targeting the following companies - Carnival , Royal Caribbean, Disney .

Cruise Tips and Tricks

For your convenience, our "wiki" collection of cruise tips, tricks, and secrets about ocean cruising vacations are grouped in several themed sections - PLANNING , BOOKING , PACKING , MONEY-SAVING , EXCURSIONS-TOURS , CABINS , SHIPS , FOOD-DRINKS , ALCOHOL , TRAVEL MATES , CREW and FREE (How to Cruise For FREE, What is FREE on Cruises). Currently, here are listed 185 cruise-travel tips and tricks, and this number changes each time we add new ones in the list that follow.

Gov taxes and port fees are generally not included in cruise fares (brochures and online rates) and their usual amount is up to 5% of the voyage's price. Cruise taxes (Gov fees and port charges) cover services like tolling, vessel inspections, harbor pilotage, security, baggage handling (at homeports). Also are included IRS charges, immigration/naturalization costs, shore excursions' expenses (VAT/flight/land transportation/hotel). Government taxes and port fees are additional and can't be avoided. Fuel surcharges are added when fuel prices go up - major passenger shipping companies charge additional USD 5-10 pp per day, to cover fuel costs.

Ship cruising is an excellent value travel option that costs 20-30% less than comparable land vacations. Fares are inclusive of stateroom, onboard food (main and casual restaurants, buffets, ice cream, pizza), drinks (differ by company), transportation (ship transfers), live entertainment (shows, trivia contests, competitions, lectures, revue shows, stand-up comedians, musicians), movies, waterparks with slides, swimming pools-whirlpools, fitness, library, deck parties, kids activities, sundecks (chairs, loungers, towels).

• Choose the destination and use travel agents specializing in cruises - with actual experience, personalized service, access to group pricing. Many agents are CLIA-certified or attend training programs through different cruise companies. Look for affiliations with ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents), BBB (Better Business Bureau) or NACOA (National Association of Cruise Oriented Agencies). You can search for CLIA-certified travel agents on its website (cruising.org) and locate agents by region and training level. You can also use ASTA (asta.org) - select "cruise lines" or "cruises" under "Specialties". Travel agents constantly research, attend seminars, have access to special perks and discounts. Cruise lines pay their commissions, so you don't have to pay more for their services.
• Do some online research time to know what are the average (normal) cruise fares on preferred itineraries and the standard inclusions (complimentary amenities and services). However, don't over-research or over-plan - the first-time cruise is a thrill, so enjoy the uncertainty and all the new experiences.
• Look for special deals - the cruise industry loves sales and customers love promos (1-day discounts, 2-for-1, kids-sail-free). Wave Season (January through March) is when most bookings are made. To benefit from "early year booking", cruise companies/agencies offer bonuses (reduced fares, free perks-upgrades) to urge bookings. Sale periods occur at regular intervals. Some deals offer "choose-your-own-bonus" upon booking. Wave Season deals are with longer booking window and more perks than sales. Read the fine print - sale's advertised perks/discounts may not apply to specific cabin categories-itineraries. Check promo's expiration date. Compare the company's promo deals with regular agency deals. Compare similar itineraries and different cabin grades.
• Stick to your vacation budget. There are 4 main traveler types - economical (budget-minded), standard (middle-class), premium (affluent) and top-luxury (silver-spooned).
• If you can afford hassle-free travel vacations, consider luxury ship cruises. Premium brands are all-inclusive, with included in the ticket flights, hotels, excursions, beverages, gratuities, Internet, specialty dining, high-end concierge and butler services, 5-star hotel cabin amenities.
• A cheap cruise ship with booked balcony cabin or suite often results in better vacation experience than a large (crowded) ship with booked inside the cabin. Yet, it depends - first in the village or second in Rome? Booking suite always means the best service, amenities, freebies, and perks.
• Each year are scheduled almost 30,000 different cruise itineraries for over 2,000 destinations worldwide. The main is East-Southeast Asia, Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic, Norwegian Fjords / Arctic), Alaska, Caribbean, Australia NZ, South America (Amazon, Antarctica).
• "Kids cruise for free" deals (children travel for free in double-occupancy booked cabin) are offered by MSC, occasionally by Carnival, Royal Caribbean, NCL, rarely by Disney.
• Best cruise ships for kids are all big liners (many of them newbuilds ) with themed onboard activities specifically designed for children in different age groups, as well as for families. On the ship kids interact in a safe, comfortable and friendly environment, always supervised by professional staff.
• If you don't like noisy crowds and long queues, try small-ship cruise or riverboat.
• If you're flying to homeport, leave enough time to compensate for flight delays.
• On trans-oceanic crossing itineraries depart from Europe - you'll gain 5 hours daylight (due to time zones crossing).
• There are many and differently themed cruises independently organized on privately chartered ships.
• The ship docks at several ports - make sure to return on time as getting back at designated times is your responsibility. Don't be late for boarding - ships wait no more than 15 min after scheduled departure times. Each company has a port agent to help if you miss the boat. One option is to fly to the next call port and embark there, though you'll have to pay all extra expenses.
• Cruise line fares are based on double occupancy. If you want to travel alone, you'll have to pay a single supplement or the full price for the stateroom. Consider booking singles cruises (search for ships with many studios). Solo cruisers are around 1/4 of all. Cabin sharing (same-sex shared stateroom) is cheaper. Many ships (smaller and largest) have studios - single cabins bookable without single supplement fee required. With some companies, single supplement rates on double staterooms are very affordable.
• Buy passports for your kids (eases check-in/embarkation/disembarkation).
• Around 70% of all cruisers use travel agents to plan and book, and mainly with CLIA-certified agents specializing in ship cruises. Travel agents are certificated in general ship cruising, as well as privy of all offered products and services. Travel agents are aware of the best deals and promo discounts. Some have access to company discounts not available to consumers. Travel agents have updated in real-time information on cabin availability, itinerary changes, newly upgraded amenities (wellness, dining, entertainment, sports), special offers. They can suggest best for your brand, vessel, itinerary, stateroom (type, category, location), onboard activities. Travel agents can handle most potential shipboard and ashore issues (lost luggage, canceled tours, delays, missed flights). Agencies also do bargains with the ship operators and often provide bonuses (onboard credit, deals inclusive of gratuities, sometimes even free excursions/tours, extra amenities, residency discounts.
• All companies require a deposit to reserve cabin. As a deposit, you pay a flat rate (usually between $100 and $1,000) or a percentage of the total cost (10-25%, depending on the company, itinerary, cabin category). Holiday cruises, group bookings, and special deals are priced differently. Deposits often are better priced with online booking.
• Travel agencies require paying fare's remaining balance at the final payment due date. The final payment differs by the company - generally between 45-90 days prior departure, up to 150 days for longer itineraries. Booking in this period requires paying in full. Cruise transfers (changes) can be made within a specific period prior departure, usually with an administration fee charge (percentage of the initial price).
• Passenger shipping companies (ferry and cruise) differ in their cancellation and refund policies. The refund depends mostly on the remaining days (prior departure), strictly in the cancellation period. A refund is infeasible in the events of no-show or interruption by the passenger after the voyage starts. Charges don't include any fees by air carriers, hotels, car rentals, etc.
• Most companies don't make exceptions regarding cancellation charges. Names or departure dates discrepancies are treated as cancellations. Although optional, it is highly recommended purchasing travel insurance (health) and trip cancellation insurance (possibility to exchange dates, in some cases - full refund).
• Cancellation charges increase as sailing dates approach, while refunds diminish. Usually, for cancellations 60+ days prior departure, no charges are assessed, around 30 days - 50% of the deposit, and for less than 2 weeks prior - the whole deposit. Penalties for cancellations of luxury cruises may reach 100% of the fare, even for 30- days prior departure. Consulting a travel agency is highly recommended since timetables and all rates are subject to change.
• Never pay brochure prices - unless it's special / well-sold voyage with higher demand.
• Booking with a travel agency or online is often cheaper than directly with the company. With some exceptions, when compared to the company's brochure rates, cruise agency deal prices are nearly identical (at least very very similar). The reason is that most big lines have no-rebate policies forbidding the agencies from undercutting company's rates.
• Cruise lines reduce theirs and their booking partners' prices to ensure the ships will sail full. In order to avoid unsold cabins, bargains are a common trend (phenomenon) all the time.
• Wholesalers buy out a huge number of cabins on a particular sailing way in advance. This is a major "why" they can sell deals at lower rates than the lines. The trick is, to get those rates you have to phone them instead of booking online.
• Don't focus on the price alone - check the extras, like if the airfare is included in the price. International airfares are one of the main reasons why Europe don't get many Americans and also why repositioning cruises (in Spring/Fall each year) are such a huge big hit among travelers.
• Check first for available last-minute deals. Potential savings on booking last minute cruises are up to 75% - best deals for budget-minded travelers with flexible schedules. Another option is wave season deals (January-March).

Note: For more information see CruiseMapper's packing lists .

• Don't forget your passport - you'll be denied boarding (on embarkation day at the terminal, and there'll be no any refunds (cruise, airfares, vacation days from the employers, etc).
• Don't overpack - enormous suitcases could spoil any vacation.
• Bring extra underwear. If you use up your clean clothes, you can use the passenger laundry facilities with washing machines.
• Save luggage space for the things you are going to buy on your cruise.
• Pack walkie-talkies - especially when traveling with kids.
• Pack earplugs - sleeping on an airplane is easier and they also allow good sleeping on the ship - (kids running, noisy neighbors, PA announcements, elevators, walkways, engines (lower-deck cabins).
• Pack suntan lotion - at home, it costs about 50% less on the ship or in port.
• If you drink, on the ship you will probably consume alcohol, so pack aspirin.
• Nowadays, all airlines prohibit sharp objects in carry-on bags, so pack them in checked luggage. Mainstream lines (including Carnival) forbid high-heels onboard their ships.
• In carry-on bag take medications (sometimes bags go to the wrong room) and swimsuits and clothes (by among the first at the pool).

MONEY-SAVING

To save money on cruises, listing by "lowest price" is not recommended - cheapest deals are limited to the departure date, itinerary, ship, cabin category.

• Cheap travel deals are offered: on bigger ships, with low season and early bookings, group-booking (15+ passengers), loyalty program (discounts, perks), membership discounts (AARP, AAA, police, military, firefighter unions, etc), promo deals (last minute, 2-for-1, 3rd travels free, kids sail free, free airfare, perks, discounted airfares / fly-cruise packages, age-related and residence-based discounts), ship relocation ( repositioncruises.com ).
• Cruise lines loyalty programs offer rewards to encourage repeat customers. On most companies, after the first cruise, you are automatically enrolled in its loyalty program. Follow a bunch of emails advertising future voyages and special offers. Repeat cruisers are offered between 5-10% discount (sometimes higher) on future cruises, free cruises, free cabin upgrades, discounted specialty dining-packages-excursions-onboard shopping, reduced fares for 3rd/4th passengers, onboard credit with early bookings, reduced deposit, access to members-only lounges (concierge breakfast, exclusive parties, reception, happy hour with free drinks - Champagne-wine-gourmet snacks), access to specials-promo offers-news, complimentary services (laundry-dry cleaning, shoe polishing, in-cabin dining / breakfast-canapes-afternoon tea), gifts (casino vouchers, free Internet, logo souvenirs-wear--lanyards-lapel pins), priority services (check-in, early boarding, faster disembarkation-tendering), subscription to company's magazine. Membership perks vary by company. For example, cruise with Carnival 25 times for 25% off the fare, 50 times - 50% off, 75 times - 75% off, 100 times - for a complimentary 7-day cruise.
• "Free cruise" offers are attainable mainly through winning onboard games-contests and loyalty programs. Examples for luxury brands are Seabourn (after 140 sea days), Silversea (350 sea days), Crystal (30 voyages). Kids-cruise-for-free are promo offers (regular with MSC). Many companies reward group planners (organizing group booking - minimum 8 cabins / 16 paying passengers) with a complimentary cruise. Booking larger groups results in bonus cabins.
• "Early Booking" cruises and paying deposits in advance (6 to 18 months) offers discount fares and expensive upgrades added as perks. Search for reduced or free airfare, cabin upgrades, complimentary amenities (included beverage packages, specialty dining, excursions, gratuities, onboard credit). Currently, cruise lines (especially luxury brands) launch their booking programs earlier than ever (even 2 or more years in advance) offering early-bookers free flights, free port parking, alcohol packages.
• Onboard ("future cruise") booking is discounted and often with reduced deposits and bonuses (onboard credit, tours, logoed gifts). Deposits are usually refundable, meaning you can change itineraries in future or transfer bookings to a travel agent.
• Shoulder season cruises (if you're flexible with dates) save up to 50% off base rates.
• Wave Season (January-March) is industry's sales period - the best time for bookings with incentives.
• Last-minute deals are cheaper, but with the least choices of ships, itineraries and staterooms. Cruise rates constantly go up and down - if you can wait (3 to 6 weeks prior departure) there's 99% chance to find the best fares.
• Among the cheapest are the seasonally-operated repositioning cruises (when ships change deployments / regions-homeports).
• Member Discount Programs are the well-deserved rewards to socially active people, who operate by several credit cards and belong to diverse programs and huge organizations, like the military, AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), AAA (American Automobile Association). If you are a member of such organization, there could be potential discounts or rewards as benefits for your membership.
• Loyalty Programs discounts are attainable only if you sail more than once with the same line. With a loyalty program, the line may offer you lower rates, free upgrades, onboard credits, priority services, and many special onboard amenities.
• Sign up for the best specials and promotions on the line's official web site. You also may check their regular updates at Twitter or Facebook.
• "Harbour cruises", 2-3-day short breaks and Cruises to Nowhere are great for first-timers - cheaper, shorter, with party crowds.
• Avoid holidays, school breaks, peak-season (overbooking, expensive, crowded).
• Use credit cards and cash, avoid traveler's checks. Most ships have ATMs. Cash is used mainly in ports and ship casinos - bring cash to avoid ATM fees. Take some casino chips by using your ship card (it pulls from the credit card). Hold them for 1 hour, then exchange for cash.
• Inform your credit card company about the cruise. When they see money traffic from unexpected locations, sometimes they may freeze your card until these charges are verified.
• Bring an emergency credit card in case your credit card company freezes your card due to international charges. Call the company prior to the voyage to avoid this problem.
• Work with travel agencies - they offer discounts, onboard credits, special promotions, incentives, and help in cases of emergencies and incidents. Buy travel insurance for distant vacation dates.
• Search online. If you do a research, you'll know much about average fares on preferred sailings, so when a sale comes out, you will know quickly it's really a great deal and be fast to snag. "Value", not the "lowest price" is what matters here.
• Never pay brochure prices. Unless it's a special and well-sold voyage where demand is much higher than supply, don't be tempted by claims of 65% of brochure rate - it is not a discount.
• Persuade a friends' group to sail together. Many lines reward such group planners for organizing trips of 16 people (in 8 cabins) at least.
• Book ships with close to home departures. Homeport cruising is very popular - and surely pays off - as there's no need to load the vacation budget with airline tickets. Cheapest (regularly scheduled) US homeport cruises are from Florida ports, NYC, Baltimore, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Galveston, New Orleans. This affects itineraries in Bahamas, Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada New England, Alaska, and Mexican Riviera. Roundtrips from San Juan (Puerto Rico) are also offered on a year-round basis.
• Having cash helps develop a budget and avoids going over or putting purchases on credit cards.
• Spa treatments cost extra, the ship's spa is more expensive compared to land-based facilities. But if you must - look for promo offers and book massages during port stay. Cruise ship spas usually offer discounts for first-day and port-day treatments. Check ship's newsletters for daily promo deals. Saunas, steam rooms and showers not part of Thermal Suite areas are free. Facials, manicures-pedicures, and massages are always available. Beware of sales pitches - shipboard spa staff work on commission and often give the hard sell to persuade buying pricey products. Generally, fitness classes are complimentary, some may cost minimal charges. Classes like yoga, spinning, Pilates cost around USD 10-15 pp.
• Generally, alternative (premium) dining is not ticket price inclusive, Usually available for dinner only, it's among not so many options to enjoy a romantic evening on the boat. Some premium eateries are complimentary, but with smaller capacity, so reservations are required.
• In the main dining rooms, you aren't limited to one appetizer, entree or dessert of each. Order three entrees or desserts if you want to. You can order portions of entrees that are appetizer-sized as starters, and also order some appetizers for the main meal.
• Specialty coffee at designated onboard coffee shops comes with extra fee, but sandwiches, pastries, and other food are often free.
• Check up if it's not cheaper buying a bottle of wine than some glasses, but what happens if you don't finish it? Cruise ship waiters mark bottles with guests' room numbers and save them for another night, may it be dinner in another venue.
• Gambling always results in losing money - but if you really must, bring envelopes for daily cash amounts. Most cruise vessels have casino (bar lounge) with slot machines, video poker, table games, tournaments, and bingo games. Minimum bets, payouts, and odds are comparable to major Las Vegas resorts. BlackJack tables generally offer minimum bet $5 during the day, rising to $10 at night. The price you'll pay per bingo card is up to $40. Don't be greedy for the $3000 jackpot and spend your money elsewhere. Onboard art auctions with free alcohol are held regularly.
• Shipboard Internet access is not that slow and expensive as it used to be. On large liners and luxury boats, the Internet is fast and offered in packages (pre-paid plans) - per min, per hour, per day, per voyage. You can find cheaper Internet and free Wi-Fi in ports. Onboard Intenet prices start from USD 5-10 per device per day. All large ships (including cruise ferries ) have Internet Cafe with PC stations. Many companies add free minutes when you buy Internet package on embarkation day.
• Extend your vacation with discounted pre- and/or post-cruise hotel packages. You can also book a hotel independently. Optionally, you can book the company's airport-to-ship transfers and plan your own activities to save money.
• To avoid seasickness - stay on land. Still, many liners are huge, all are with modern stabilizers, so vessel listing is minimal. If you're feeling seasick - take a nap, take medication (Scopolamine and Dramamine are most common), ginger capsules. Move to open deck midship, look at the horizon. Use acupuncture wrist band. Stimulate underside of the forearm, 3 fingers down from the wrist. Get a shot at the ship's infirmary (expect to sleep for few hours). Seasickness medicine is free of charge - available at ship's infirmary and Reception (Lobby).
• Consider "Value Added" deals - fare is not changing, but additions "sweeten the deal" - gratuities, free cabin upgrades (same price for higher category), shipboard credit (added to your stateroom account), bonus amenities (cocktail parties, Internet, minibar drinks, laundry), free gifts (souvenirs, binoculars), even free roundtrip air (included airport-ship transfers) and tours.
• "Cabin upgrade" is an option when you book low-priced "guarantee" category and hope for a category upgrade. Booking "guarantee" stateroom means you get at least this category, but you're not assigned to a specific cabin, The company just guarantees you a stateroom (at this category rate) and waits to see how the bookings go. As most people book the cheapest cabins, they often sell out. In such cases, the company may offer cabin upgrades to passengers with first booked lower fare, thus making cheaper cabins available for new customers. You can also request cabin upgrade upon check-in (at the cruise terminal). Depending on bookings, companies sometimes upgrade cabins for a fee, but the upgrades are usually less expensive than if that category was originally booked.
• When onboard, make sure you turn off cellular service on your mobile phone, so you don’t pay for “cellular at sea” service.
• Save money on port days by boarding the ship for late lunch (at the Lido buffet) instead of eating ashore.

When is the cheapest time to cruise?

• ALASKA - May or September (up to 45% cheaper cruises, up to 50% hotel discounts, off-season December-March)
• BAHAMAS (December-March)
• CARIBBEAN - April-May and October-January; Florida departures; hurricanes/low season June-November; most island resorts close down in late September-October for renovations; search itineraries with USA's Puerto Rico (port San Juan); cheapest rates are between Labor Day (September's 1st Monday) and Thanksgiving (November's 4th Thursday in the USA, October's 2nd Monday in Canada); travel between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
• BERMUDA (April-May, September-October)
• HAWAII (September-December, February-May, Australia-Hawaii and Alaska-Hawaii ship repositioning, low seasons)
• MEXICAN Riviera (January, May, October, November)
• CANADA-NEW ENGLAND (May-August)
• AUSTRALIA-NEW ZELAND (May-September)
• SOUTH PACIFIC Islands (November-April)
• Europe-BALTIC (May-September, Hurtigruten offers Northern Lights cruises)
• Europe-MEDITERRANEAN (May and September, October-April, cheapest are Canary Islands cruises)
• Europe-RIVERS (March, late November, December), the off-season is January-March, Christmas Market shopping cruise tours in December
• SOUTH AMERICA (April, October), avoid Galapagos in August-September.

Storms and cruise ships

Hurricanes are tropical storms with high winds-waves, generating tornados, causing severe damages.

• Atlantic hurricane season (mid-August-late-September) affects Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, US East Coast.
• Eastern Pacific hurricane season (July-September) affects Mexican Riviera and Hawaii.
• Avoid Eastern Caribbean (mid-August-mid-September) and Western Caribbean (mid-September-November).
• Australia New Zealand cyclones are in March-April.
• Hurricanes usually don't meet cruise ships due to the industry's advanced weather tracking technologies. Liners don't encounter hurricanes directly. Large vessels are equipped with sophisticated weather tracking equipment to predict the storm's intensity and path. Hurricanes move slow, so ships easily outrun or go around them. In rough seas, boat's stabilizers prevent from tilting and severe listing.
• Purchase travel insurance - it can provide good financial buffers for changing plans and re-arrangements in cases of storms during the vacation. The good travel insurance plan covers for cancellation, interruption or delays, Travel insurance covers only unexpected events. Cruise companies protection plans are not insurance plans (not backed by government agencies).
• Expect itinerary changes - port times changes, skipped/replaced ports, extra sea days, delayed homeport arrival. Main benefits are great booking discounts and compensations for changes and cancellations (future cruise discounts, full or partial refunds, OBC, refunds on port taxes, free drinks).

SHORE EXCURSIONS and TOURS

All cruise companies offer a variety of shore excursions (land tours) with different themes and ability levels. Most offer similar (even identical) tours and similar excursions available at extra cost or complimentary in different call ports during the voyage.

Sample excursions include: local attractions (museums, botanical gardens, zoos), wildlife preserves, historical ruins, resorts, plantations, wineries (food-wine sampling), guided city tours (bus or walking), adventure tours-sports (jeeps, ATVs, trekking, hiking, golfing, kayaking, biking, horseback riding, snorkeling-diving, zip-lining), glass-bottom boating, mini-submarine tours, wildlife encounters (swimming with dolphins, stingrays, whale watching), helicopter tours, party and shopping tours.

• Essential items to bring on any shore excursion include tour tickets, Cruise Ship ID Card and ID card (required when reentering the port / returning to the ship), Photo ID (government-issued ID, driver's license or passport to pass security), credit card, cash. Recommended items include bottled water, emergency contacts, sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray (jungle tours), photo equipment-batteries-memory cards, basic medications (headaches, nausea), light snacks, foreign language dictionary-phrasebook, mobile device (region/port maps, shopping locations), backpack.
• Activity levels specify how strenuous is the experience. Some tours may require certification (scuba), some have age-weight-height requirements. Shore excursion prices range greatly - depending on the company, destination, tour, length. Bus tours are guided and cost around USD 30-40 pp. Wildlife encounters cost over USD 100. The most expensive is usually the longest. Helicopter/floatplane tours or Mayan ruin tours could cost over USD 200 pp. Prices are additional to cruise fares and typically added to onboard accounts. Some companies offer prepayment tours upon booking (prior departure). Shore excursion's price includes transportation (bus, boat, plane, etc), guides, specialized equipment, often non-alcoholic drinks and refreshments. Extra are gratuities.
• Cruise lines provide huge selections of call port excursions/land tours via partnerships with local operators. Shore excursions range in duration from 1 hour (even less) up to several hours. Some are "at your leisure", meaning the beginning and ending at passenger's convenience.
• Purchasing tours can be done online (prior departure), shipboard (after boarding at Reception / Tour Desk) and at ports (independently). Tickets will be delivered to your stateroom. Direct booking with tour companies is often cheaper (25-50%) than the ship's excursions. However, independent excursions are risky - is not checked by the cruise line for safety and quality. If the excursion is late, the tour operator must contact the port agent who then contacts the ship. Captains always wait for delayed excursions booked through the cruise line, but not for independently-booked tour passengers.
• Book shore excursion (land tours) before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer online booking. It guarantees both availability and safety (in the event of tour delays, etc) and saves onboard time.
• At the tender ports, the ship anchors in open sea and passengers are ferried ashore on tender boats (tenders). Early morning excursions have priority tender boarding, next is Suite passengers. Pay attention to instructions, be patient.
• Taxi sightseeing tours are often a good option (depending on port).
• Loiter around taxi ranks in call ports and wait to share a cab with someone else. This way you'll save money and could meet someone new.
• To avoid incidents and accidents onshore excursion - consume local foods in moderation (especially unfamiliar foods with unknown ingredients), drink only bottled water, follow tour guide's instructions (particularly concerning specialized equipment), book tours that suit your abilities, avoid venturing into seaports/cities alone (particularly at night).
• The cruise ship is not just transportation to seaports - it's where you spend most of the time during the cruise vacation. Cruising is great to sample several ports, but if you want to spend more time in a specific port city, fly there, stay for a few days in a hotel. On cruises, the ship's schedule allows visiting ports for only several hours (depending on itinerary and boat) with no guarantee the weather will be fine.

Note: For extensive information on cruise staterooms by ship see at CruiseMapper's Cabins section.

• On Alaskan cruise book outside-starboard cabin (northbound routes) and outside-portside cabin (southbound routes). This way you'll be facing scenery instead of open water.
• If you don't mind cabin location, book "guaranteed" stateroom. You pay in full at booking, but the advantage is possible to upgrade to better category (up to 4 grades higher) and you won't get anything lower than booked.
• Generally, cabin upgrades while on the boat are not possible as ships are usually booked to capacity. Changing cabins is possible only in "no-show" cases when someone paid but didn't show up. Know tha Reception Desk will know about "no-shows" after the ship sets sail.
• Cabins below or above some venues (disco, casino, restaurant, kids-teens clubs, etc) are loud, Lower-deck cabins (near the engine room) experience noises and vibrations. A good location is a very front (bow) - you'll walk more, get some rumble from the thrusters (propulsion units) and more swaying, but no vibrations and less foot traffic by the door.
• Expect the stateroom to be much smaller than a typical hotel room.
• Inside cabins don't have natural light at all, but if you turn the TV to bridge cam station and turn off sound, you'll have an instant nightlight and be able to see when the sun is up.
• Booking all-inclusive Suite deals may be better than standard balcony cabins. Depending on the company, Suite deals are inclusive of perks like specialty dining, complimentary mini-bar (wine and premium alcohol included, replenished daily), spa treatments, priority reservations and services (onboard and ashore), concierge room service, laundry.
• Once onboard, staterooms may not be ready and luggage usually arrives several hours later. Don't call the Reception. Cabin stewards carry thousands of luggage - it takes time. Don't forget to take a carry-on with basic necessities (documents, medications, phone, camera, toiletries).
• Don't expect everything to be perfect. The cabin toilet might not work. The remote control batteries might be dead. Call the Reception if necessary, but remember - it's your vacation, so keep it cool. Control your emotions - be friendly but firm.
• Cabin designers nowadays create storage space as much as possible. Explore your room or ask the cabin steward - you'll be surprised when you find the extra storage under couch or bed, behind the mirror or inside the ottoman.
• Some lines provide top sheets, egg crate toppers, and alternative pillows by special request. Don't hesitate to ask, no matter before or during the cruise.
• With all the electronics we use these days, cruise ship outlets are always insufficient. Remember to bring a power strip or charging station, or ask the cabin steward. There is often an extra outlet which is hidden under the bed or behind the TV.
• Cabin TVs offer "ship info" channel and “view from the bridge” (real-time bow camera views).
• Be quiet in the stateroom - walls are generally thin.

Most advanced (as technology, venues, and fun options) are the new liners . Yet, older ships are cheaper.

• Cruise onboard credit (OBC) is "virtual cash money" to be used on the ship or on private islands during the voyage. The amount is set up prior departure and loaded on a plastic card (or wearable device on newest ships) - the same used for stateroom access. Onboard credit is added to individual ship account and used for all kinds of payments-purchases on the boat. Upon boarding (embarkation), you give the company your credit card number and they open an account for you. After confirmation, you receive the plastic card (wearable device) in your cabin. You can track the account via cabin TV's infotainment system. At the end of the voyage, if you have to remain OBC, it's applied to your credit card. If there's still credit left, you lose it.
• OBC (per cabin) is often offered as an incentive with bookings, cruise packages, special and promo deals by the cruise company or travel agency. OBC varies by company-agency, itinerary-destinations, stateroom (class-grade). OBC as a bonus is often given to first-timers. OBC is also used for compensations for accidents-incidents (itinerary changes, delays-cancellations, illness outbreak, etc) and is a frequent reward for loyalty program members and company's shareholders.
• Gambling on cruise ships is both entertaining and highly profitable business for cruise lines. The experience is designed for both impulse inexperienced gamblers and high rollers betting large sums in VIP casino games and tournaments. The laws for gambling on cruise ships are determined by the ship's flag state. Docked in port vessels follow the country's rules. Cruise ships are allowed to open their casinos only in international waters. Among the exceptions are Bermuda, casino ships (operating 1-night or weekend gambling cruises to nowhere ) and riverboat casinos (permanently moored on a lake or river). Unlike land-based casinos, cruise ship casino staff are more patient and help with complimentary lessons. Onboard casinos "rate" players, offering free drinks, open tables with higher limits and minimums, gambling-themed cruises. Among the industry's most popular Player Programs is Carnival's partnership with Ocean Players Club (OPC). Carnival ship casinos have slot machines with players club cards.
• The Captain has the authority to kick anyone off the ship if he/she thinks the person is a danger to other passengers or the crew. Scheduled port visits could be changed by the Captain - with a partial refund.
• In Europe (UK, Baltic, Mediterranean) consider the short break vacation option "ferry cruise". European ferries are large liners with many modern amenities and facilities and even in a design similar to cruise vessels - with bar lounges, restaurants, cinema, casino, spa-fitness, game room, kids room, sundeck with swimming pool (open in the summer).
• On embarkation day, after boarding, go to your stateroom or to Lido Deck (pool deck) for buffet lunch.
• Set your watch to "ship time" - it may (or not) change after crossing time zones.
• Ship elevators are usually overcrowded. Better avoid the lifts when possible - climbing the stairs is also healthy.
• In cases of accidents or incidents (like heavy listing or grounding) don't worry if there are no injuries. To avoid injuries on cruises - don't exaggerate your expertise, follow all posted safety instructions (crew advice), use safety equipment properly-responsibly, use handrails (staircases), wear comfortable shoes, be attentive. Pack shoes and flip-flops with good traction (open decks are slippery when wet).
• For faster boarding-embarkation - check-in online (before arrival at the cruise terminal), pre-print boarding passes and luggage tags, avoid peak boarding time (arrive at the terminal earlier or late), Priority boarding is a perk enjoyed by many suite passengers and upper-tier cruise line loyalty members, but a number of cruise lines allow regular passengers to pay for the same privileges. priority boarding (dedicated lane for screenings and check-in is available for passengers with pre-purchased priority boarding, and is included as perk for Suite passengers), drop off the luggage with the greeting porters (they take and delivered it to your stateroom, pack a small carry-on bag also including your official documents/passports, boarding passes, visas),
• To avoid Norovirus on cruises - always wash your hands before dining, avoid touching surfaces in public areas.
• Muster drill (aka lifeboat drill) is a mandatory Coast Guard requirement for all passenger ships. Shortly before departure, passengers must gather for a review of all emergency procedures. Carry or wear from cabin your life jacket to the muster station. Muster drill is on embarkation day - pay attention, It could save your life.
• Passengers are allowed to bring drones (quadcopter) on cruise ships but can use them only on land and outside the port's area. Active drones onboard are forbidden at any time, as well as on private islands.
• Professional shipboard photographers are always available. They always make photos and videos, which you don't have to buy ("No, thanks" works fine). Photos (depending on size) cost around $5-15 and are available for purchasing at ship's Photo Gallery-Shop.
• Onboard duty-free shops and boutiques usually sell logo items (magnets, hats, clothes, toys), souvenirs, convenience goods, various beverages, gourmet sweets, fashion clothing-accessories, designer jewelry-watches-perfumes-sunglasses-leather goods, brand cosmetic-skincare products. Inexpensive souvenirs (including handicrafts) can be purchased from street vendors and local markets. Bargain shopping offers are available on the ship toward voyage's end.
• Onboard tipping is mandatory. Most cruise fares don't include gratuities (around USD 10 pp per day). Tips are automatically added to onboard accounts, but also can be prepaid. Bar tabs are additionally charged 15-18% gratuity (automatically). You can adjust auto-gratuities at ship's Reception (purser desk) or tip below the recommended if you've received subpar service. Keep in mind that ship's crew-staff work hard and they depend on tips. Unless the service is extremely poor, tip at least the recommended amount. You can always add more if you like the service. It's customary to give a gratuity to head waiters, dining room waiters, assistants, butlers and cabin stewards on voyage's last night. Use an envelope (supplied by the company) or your own. Waiters and cabin stewards work up to 15 hours a day. Most of them get 1 day off in 8 months. Tip them extra on the first day to be served like royalty. Let them know you'll be tipping them at the end of the voyage too. Your special requests will become the staff's top priority.
• Most ships provide a newsletter to all passenger cabins (or it's available via cabin's TV infotainment system). Check it for dress codes, scheduled activities, dining-spa-shopping promotions, etc.
• Onboard formal nights are gala dinner events when passengers can dress in finest attire and try chef's best dishes. Formal nights are optional and not held on embarkation or voyage's last evening due to luggage handling. On most ships are scheduled on sea days, on some - at the second night. Depending on the itinerary length, formal nights are one or two (7-day cruises). Special events planned for formal nights include Captain's speech, meeting ship's officers, cocktail parties, past passenger receptions, photo sessions. Dress codes for formal nights are - men (shirt-tie-suit jacket or tuxedo, accessories), women (cocktail dress, dress slacks, skirt suit or evening gown, jewelry). Formal dress code for kids-teens is as for adults. All brands forbid casual shorts, t-shirts, swimwear, beachwear and jeans in indoor restaurants, lounges, bars. Swimsuit dining is only permitted at poolside bars and fast-food stands.
• Shows and presentations are re-broadcast on ship's channel - you can watch the recording after missing the live performance.
• Casino players can get a hole in their room cards and free casino lanyards - for easy play and not forgetting cards in slot machines.
• Smoking on cruise ships (including e-cigarettes) is allowed only at designated areas, including Promenade Deck, Pool Deck, Casino Lounge, Cigar Club.

The list of craziest things to do on cruise ships includes:

• "Formula 1" simulator (MSC), Grand Prix simulators (Costa), Ferrari Go-Kart Track (NCL)
• 4D Cinema (Costa, MSC, Carnival) - squirts of liquids, pumped-in smells, quivering seats, HD visuals, seats with belts
• "Illuminations" planetarium (Cunard RMS Queen Mary 2) - huge dome with celestial simulations
• "The Rising Tide" mobile bar (Royal Caribbean Allure-Oasis) - moving between decks 5-8, 30 min roundtrip - 10 min embarkation/debarkation, 20 in motion
• Svedka Ice Bar (NCL) - made of solid ice (including sculptures and furnishings), illuminated by bulbs simulating Northern Lights. The bar provides gloves and hooded coats for the ice glasses and ice-cube seats.
• Multi-deck waterslides - Perfect Storm (Royal Caribbean, 5-decks), Waterworks (Carnival, 3-decks), AquaDunk (Disney, 3-decks)
• Top-deck SkyCourse (outdoor ropes course) and SkyRide (outdoor roller coaster bike ride) - Carnival
• Intra-ship Zip Line (Royal Caribbean Oasis-class) - 9 decks up, diagonal course 82 ft / 25 m across the Atrium
• FlowRider surf simulator (Royal Caribbean) - generates waves on a cushioned platform
• "Bionic Bar" served by robot bartenders (Royal Caribbean Quantum-class) - 2 robotic hands mix and serve drinks ordered via tablet
• SeaPlex (Royal Caribbean Quantum-class) - world's biggest indoor sports complex at sea (roller-skating rink, circus school, bumper cars, XBOX gaming, sports court)
• "North Star" (Royal Caribbean Quantum-class) - top-deck mobile observation pod (15-min sessions in a glass-enclosed capsule, 14-seats) - the mechanical arm extends to over 300 ft / 91 m above sea level.
• "RipCord by iFLY" skydiving simulator (Royal Caribbean Quantum-class - equipment (flight suit, protective headgear, goggles) are provided. It's a glass-enclosed, 23 ft / 7 m high vertical window tunnel simulating skydiving.

FOOD and DRINKS

Note: To this section is related our Fitness Cruises (information and tips on how to stay healthy and even lose weight while cruising).

• Onboard dining is either traditional (fixed/assigned seating) or flexible (your-time/open seating). Dining Room fixed times are early and late. Assigned seating gives the opportunity to know your wait staff and tablemates, and get more personalized service. With flexible onboard dining, passengers choose what time they eat (and on some ships - the restaurant). Most cruise lines offer open seating in MDRs (main dining rooms). Flexible dining allows free choice of dinner time throughout the voyage, better planning of activities, more time for excursions, choice of small or large tables, meeting different people each night. Cons include - waiting for a table (especially during prime times), making advance reservations avoid queues, different waiters (inconvenient if you have dietary restrictions). Some companies (Carnival, Celebrity, Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean) offer both assigned and open seating (in different MDRs) on most of their ships. Both options are available and must be selected upon booking. Other shipboard dining options are self-serve buffet restaurant (complimentary), bistro-type cafes and various food bars (many complimentary, including 24-hour pizzeria), exclusive restaurants (suite-only, complimentary), specialty restaurants (a-la-carte priced or at surcharge / ranging from USD 8-40 pp). Specialty restaurants include French, Italian, Asian (Japanese), steakhouse, supper club, celebrity chef partnerships. Most are reservations-only). You can preview MDR menu items before assigned dining time. Most MDRs post day's menu outside their entrance. Ship's daily newsletter lists menus, themed buffets and special snacks scheduled for the day. There is no limit on what and how much food you can order in MDRs (menus change daily).
• Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, allergies, salt-gluten-free, etc) are always catered for. Let the travel agent know about your diets or inform the company upon booking. All shipboard menus include vegetarian, healthy and light fare.
• Cruise companies' number 2 top source of income is the shipboard consumed alcohol - following only ticket sales. "Booze cruise" means more money spent on fewer memories. But if you really must - buy prepaid alcohol-included packages with fixed per person per day price. Beverage packages are great deals if you intend to drink much on the ship. Unlimited alcohol package for 7-day cruise costs around USD 60-70 pp per day. About 1/4 of all passengers purchase drink packages.
• To avoid food illnesses on cruises - don't gorge yourself (particularly with unfamiliar foods), inform the wait staff about your food allergies, ask about unfamiliar dishes (ingredients), don't consume full portions (sample the buffet food), order meat fully cooked.
• To avoid gaining weight on cruises - forgo unnecessary treats, at buffets, consider light foods or just sample the most tempting dishes / snacks, consider spa menu food and drinks, limit the alcohol, avoid or limit fat-salty-sugary foods (heavy salad dressings and sauces, burgers, chips, pizzas, pies, pastries, muffins, cakes, biscuits, ice-cream). After indulging with food spend an hour in the gym or walk around the ship.
• To stay healthy start before the voyage - eat healthier foods, drink more water, no sodas, sugary drinks, less alcohol.
• There is no rule for "open beverage" onboard and you may bring drinks from bars or buffets to staterooms or elsewhere on the ship - the same is valid for food.
• Explore free drinks or buy drink package options.
• Soda is not free on most ships, unlike iced tea in dining rooms. Buying soda cards offers discount pricing and unlimited soft drinks.
• Most companies allow bringing onboard reasonable amounts of bottled nonalcoholic drinks and wine.
• Beer drinkers can group and save by purchasing beer buckets. Beers in souvenir buckets are cheaper than ordering individual bottles/cans.
• Refill souvenir glasses at a discount. Order "drink of the day" in regular glass to save money. Read the ship's daily newsletter for happy hours and drink specials with reduced prices. Order fruity drinks on the first day to get souvenir cup - use it throughout the voyage.
• On embarkation day lunch at the Lido buffet (while waiting for the staterooms). Most ships have alternative complimentary dining venues (cafe, grill bar, pizzeria).
• First-night dining at Carnival Steakhouse offers a complimentary bottle of wine.
• Carnival's pizzas are ranked best at sea - cooked-to-order, fresh-baked in a wood-fired oven, with a thin crust.
• Buffet food is almost the same as in MDRs (share the same galley/kitchen). Unlike MDRs, buffet's dress code is casual.
• Booking alternative dining venues for the first night is at discounted prices.
• Room service is 24-hour and often free of charge (late-night service is usually at a fee). Suite deals provide complimentary concierge room service. The room service menu is provided in all cabins. Stewards deliver the food to the door and remove dirty dishes during cabin cleaning (or you can set them in the hallway for collection). Standard menu items include fruits, pastries, bagels, eggs-omelets, toast, hash browns, sandwiches, salads, pizza, cookies, drinks. Cruise ship room service can be ordered via menu cards, phone or interline (newest ships). Luxury (and some mainstream) brands allow passengers to order in-cabin dining from restaurant menus. Tipping for room service is not required, but considered polite.
• On Lido Deck are often available soft-serve machines (ice-cream for free).
• At the Buffet Restaurant - don't switch direction, don't cut the line, don't walk around the others, don't eat in line, don't move the tongs between platters, don't make doggie bags, watch your kids, don't take more than you can eat.

How to get free alcohol on cruises?

• Attend alcohol tastings (liquor stores, club lounges), parties (Captain's Cocktail, Farewell), art auctions (sparkling wine), casino playing (depends on level/accrued club points).
• Loyalty programs offer members-only events (wine tastings, open-bar cocktail events, free minibar drinks on embarkation day) and wine package discounts. Holland America guarantees "Mariner Society Brunch" (complimentary food and sparkling wine) just after the first voyage. After 75 cruise days, it gives 25% discount on wine packages and cabin minibar purchases, after 200 cruise days - 50% discounts and complimentary wine tastings. Royal Caribbean offers nightly happy hours (at exclusive Diamond Lounge) with free cocktails for Diamond and above members. On ships without Diamond Lounge, these members receive free drink vouchers each night during happy hour.
• Higher-grade staterooms often include a free minibar. Suite passengers receive access to exclusive Club Lounges (self-service complimentary bar with drinks and snacks).
• Some ship bars advertise BOGO (hour-long free alcohol / see daily newsletters for times and places).
• Suite-only clubs held happy hours. At certain evening times, happy hours in some ship bars offer discount-priced or 2-for-1 drinks. Drinks of the day are always cheaper.
• Luxury brands offer alcohol-included fares and complimentary cabin minibars (daily re-stocked with alcohol, sodas, bottled water).
• "Bon Voyage" gifts are pre-cruise purchasing options with in-cabin deliveries upon boarding. All Bon Voyage beverages (alcohol and packs) are great deals (cheaper than bar prices), but for in-cabin consumption only.
• All-you-can drink packages are convenient and cheapest (per drink), but sharing drinks is forbidden. Passengers pay a fixed price for unlimited drinks on the ship (inclusions vary by package). Some companies ( Carnival's Cheers , Royal Caribbean's Deluxe ) offer only 1 unlimited package, others offer several options with different beverages/prices. Unlimited packages cost between USD 45-65 pp per day. Booking promotions and select voyages (including repositioning crossings) often offer as bonus complimentary beverage packages.
• Most company policies allow bringing alcohol on ships (mainly beer packs and 1-2 wine bottles) with additional corkage fee for outside-cabin consumption. Beverages must be packed in not checked carry-on luggage. Coolers with drinks aren't allowed.
• Liquor purchased from ship's duty-free shop is delivered to cabin the last night before disembarkation. Some companies offer discount-priced liquor and sodas via room service.
• Almost all river cruise ships in Europe allow bringing your own alcohol (liquors, beers. wines) on the boat. Locally sourced wines and beers (by the glass) are complimentary served with onboard lunches and dinners. Also free are "Coffee Corners" (beverage stations with unlimited water, coffees, teas, juices, snacks).
• Read here tricks on how to sneak alcohol on ships .

TRAVEL MATES

• Cruise with friends - it's always more fun, and you can still meet new people onboard. Greatest thing is that you are not forced to be together all the time (like on land vacation).
• Cruise with your age group, so choose the region wisely. Colder destination (like Alaska) means older crowd. Younger travelers usually can't afford longer itineraries due to vacation time limits. Short itineraries (like in Bahamas-Caribbean) are best for party cruises - cheaper (per day rates) and with a younger crowd.
• Respect other cultures. Remember that each country has its ways of eating, engaging, greeting, etc.
• Allow elderly and disabled passengers to access elevators - taking the stairs is healthier.
• Adults-only venues are not for kids - remember that booking "family cruise" is a kids-inclusive package.
• Smaller and luxury ships' passengers are in the 45-60+ age group and offer better service and all-inclusiveness. Most of the largest lines (like Princess, Royal Caribbean, Carnival) have their passengers perfectly mixed.
• The top 5 cruise vacation annoyances are - annoying chatter, invading personal space, drunken behavior (shouting, arguments, fighting), long queues (activities/buffet due to indecisiveness) and irritating kids.

How to Cruise For FREE, What is FREE on Cruises

How to cruise for FREE?

Group cruises are great for family reunions, friends, birthday celebrations, anniversaries, weddings, associations, clubs and groups (sports-social-professional-retired military-church-fraternity-Sorority).

All major brands offer travel incentives for a group booking, including TC ("tour conductor"). TC is credit for the Group Leader ("Pied Piper") to cruise for free with a group of relatives-friends-colleagues brought to the company. Ask your relatives and friends first, then ask co-workers and acquaintances. All group travelers receive a reduced group rate - you cruise for free.

• As tour conductor, you work with a travel agency and make all travel-ship arrangements for the group. The agent will guide you through all types of cruises and itineraries, and inform you of companies' group policies. Your primary jobs will be recruitment and communication.
• The company's award is limited to cruise fares only. Additional are port charges, Government fees-taxes. As Group Leader you'll need to make yourself familiar with the company's policies before booking.
• Group rates are always lower than individual rates. You can also sell the free cruise and divide the money among the group, thus saving everyone money.
• If you can't find enough people for a group booking, look for travel agencies members of national accounts or travel consortiums (Ensemble, Virtuoso, etc). They are given incentives to block large clusters of staterooms in advance. These incentives are usually better pricing, added amenities, or both.
• Many companies award "group amenity points" based on group's total number: more passengers - more points - more perks (cabin upgrades, shipboard credits, private parties, in-cabin champagne, logo merchandise, etc).
• If you establish an ongoing relationship with a cruise line or travel agency, you can do group bookings consistently, cruising for free. It could become a full-time job. Your agent works directly with the brand to make air arrangements, bookings, cabin assignments, onboard events, dining times, etc. But your group will look to you if anything goes wrong.

The group size needed for 1 free berth (bed) varies by brand, but all largest define "group voyage" as minimum 16 passengers in 8 cabins (3rd and 4th passengers in a cabin are allowed, but they don't count toward the total). The tour conductor, the 16th person, cruises for free. Here is an example of the number of free berths/beds you could earn on 7-day cruisetour:

• 8 cabins (16 passengers) traveling = 1 Free Bed
• 16 cabins (32 passengers) traveling = 2 Free Beds (1 cabin)
• 24 cabins (48 passengers) traveling = 3 Free Beds
• 32 cabins (64 passengers) traveling = 4 Free Beds (2 cabins)
• 100 cabins (200 passengers) traveling = 12 Free Beds (6 cabins)
• Silversea and Seabourn provide 1 free berth for every 10 sold.

What you do with the free beds is up to you/the group. Among the possible choices after selling the free beds are:

• Group Leaders keep all free berths for themselves and even may earn extra onboard spending money. This is agreed upon in advance and kept confidential.
• Gifts or Shore Tours - convert free berths in tours, or in-cabin gifts, or specialty dining, spa, etc.
• Deeper Price Discounts - take free beds value and divide it among the group for an additional discount.
• Special Guest Invitation - invite a celebrity guest to add value to your group experience.
• Onboard Group Escort - hire group escort to help to coordinate onboard and ashore activities.

Another way to cruise for free is to work on the ship. Cruise companies need to update their enrichment programs and constantly search for skilled photographers, travel writers, entertainers, lecturers, instructors (computer, arts-crafts, dance), gentleman hosts, nannies, bodyguards, personal assistants, performers, bridge players, etc. Some companies offer Star Cruises free Birthday cruise deals on select ships and departure dates.

What is FREE on cruises?

Modern mega-liners offer an increasing number of at-fee shipboard options. Add-ons and surcharges will always be, but also many things on the ships will be fare-inclusive.

• Wi-Fi Internet is free on Viking Ocean, RSSC Regent, Crystal, Oceania, also on riverboats.
• pizzas (at select venues)
• fast-food at poolside bars - sandwiches, burgers, steaks, tacos, hot dogs, ice-cream, milkshakes
• cabin toiletries, towels, bathrobes (all higher-grade staterooms or upon request)
• saunas and steam rooms (fleetwide on Carnival. Celebrity, Princess)
• shows (at Theater lounges)
• on open decks - outdoor theater movies (large LED screens), mini-golf course, sports court, putting green, ropes course, swimming pools and whirlpools, deckchairs-loungers-towels, adults-only decks, surf simulators and outdoor rock climbing (RCI)
• lectures, dancing lessons, workshops and most classes, DJ parties (disco nightclubs)

Shipboard staff and crew

Ship crew includes waiters, bartenders, stateroom attendants, cleaners, while its staff relates to positions like an officer, manager, shop worker, tour guide, lecturer/entertainer. The best benefit is that they can travel the world for free.

• Staff/crew share dorm-style, smaller-sized cabins (often quads with bunk beds) with en-suite bathroom.
• As soon as the first shift ends, most staff/crew nip off for a quick nap before the second shift starts.
• Among the crew-only facilities and amenities are an exclusive sundeck (some with whirlpool/swimming pool), mess hall (bar lounge/dining room), complimentary food/drinks/healthcare, crew parties.
• Tips/gratuities are combined and divided between tipping (crew) positions only.
• Crew and staff aren't supposed to intermingle with passengers - they can get fired if caught. If you have a romantic encounter with a crew, use discretion and realize you're probably not the first traveler he/she is with.
• With a currently employed crew-staff member, you pay only port charges. Crew also get free tours and know seaport's best places to visit. And you'll be able to access some crew-only areas.
• Meals are free and offered at Mess Hall (crew-only dining room/bar-lounge). Med services are also free.
• Highest paying crew jobs are Captain, Executive Chef, Cruise Director, Chief Purser, Hotel Director, Human Resources Manager.
• Crew caught engaging in personal relationships with passengers are fired immediately.
• Most crew are accommodated in 2-3-bed bunk cabins (depending on rank/title).

CruiseMapper's "tips and tricks" are wiki-type work - constantly updated with new additions to our themed lists above. Expect to find here more useful information and more cruise secrets revealed the next time you visit this page. Bon voyage, and happy vacation!

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Planning summer travel with kids can be a breeze if you keep these tips in mind.

Everything You Need to Know About the Best Cruises For Teens | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Why is Royal Caribbean's <em>Icon of the Seas</em>℠ Caribbean sailing one of the best cruises for teens? The answer lies in the vast array of wow-worthy moments.

Planning a Trip To Alaska: Land vs. Sea | Royal Caribbean Cruises

When planning a trip to Alaska, many travelers wonder if it's better to explore the state by land or by sea. Here's why travel by cruise ship is best here.

Our Family Alaska Cruise: A Vacation We'll Never Forget | Royal Caribbean Cruises

On our family Alaska cruise, we created lifetime memories by sharing glacier spotting, dog sledding, flightseeing and other adventures with our teens.

Plan Your Best Spa Getaways | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Plan the best spa getaway possible with experiences being tailored to suit your vacation needs. Rest and rejuvenate in exotic destinations around the world.

Best Cruises from New York | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Curious about the best cruises from New York? Options include Bermuda, the Bahamas and New England. Discover these exciting cruises from Cape Liberty.

How to Plan a Culture Trip to the Caribbean Islands | Royal Caribbean Cruises

A culture trip allows you to explore the vibrant traditions, flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean islands.

A Guide to Planning the Best Family Cruises Onboard Oasis of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Plan the best family vacation, here are some of the top ways you can maximize your time traveling onboard Oasis of the Seas for your epic family cruise trip.

The Ultimate Guide to Your Caribbean Vacation| Royal Caribbean Cruises | Royal Carribean Cruises

Royal Caribbean's 2024 cruises offer the perfect Caribbean vacation, bringing you to the region's beaches, culture, history and cuisine.

What To Wear on a Cruise: Dressing for the Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

When you're planning a weekend away, packing is incredibly important. If you're wondering what to wear on a cruise, this guide has you covered.

[Infographic] Eastern vs Western Caribbean

Don't know the differences between the Caribbean islands? Here's how to choose between eastern vs. western Caribbean cruise itineraries for your dream vacation.

Top Secret Vacation Spots in Europe | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top secret vacation spots to visit when traveling in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

Caribbean Festivals with Holiday Foods | Royal Caribbean Cruises

This year, go to the Caribbean for the holidays. The combination of Caribbean festivals and local holiday foods will make it a vacation to remember.

What to Pack for a Cruise to Alaska | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take the guess work out of what to pack for a cruise to Alaska with this guide that tells you what to bring and why you'll be glad you did!

The Best Secret Mediterranean Beaches | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From the mainstream French and Italian Rivieras to secluded idylls in the Balkans, your search for the best Mediterranean beaches ends here.

Visiting Historic Abbeys in England | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Did you know some abbeys in England are still open for visits? This guide will help you discover the most glorious and influential abbeys in England.

Top Secret Vacation Spots in the Caribbean | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best Caribbean vacation with access to the top secret vacation spots to visit when traveling in the islands. Pick and save your favorite.

What Makes Royal Caribbean the Best Cruise Line? | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Having won awards year after year for our dining, entertainment, service and ships, Royal Caribbean is easily one of the best cruise lines in the world.

The Best Holiday Destinations To Visit This Season | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The best holiday destinations are those that allow you to forget your stresses back home and spend time with your closest loved ones.

The Most Famous European Cathedrals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

From Notre Dame to the iconic La Sagrada Família, here are some of the most famous European cathedrals.

Northeastern Facts to Illuminate This Beautiful US Region | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The Northeast is a must-visit destination for travelers who love food, culture, history and the outdoors. These Northeastern facts will inspire your visit.

Pablo Picasso Facts and How He Influenced the Art World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Headed to Europe on a cruise for art immersion? Enjoy these Pablo Picasso facts for your vacation travels and save your favorite destinations.

Underrated European Travel Destinations | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Take your best European vacation with access to the top underrated travel destinations to visit when taking a vacation in Europe. Pick and save your favorite.

Best Activities for Grandparents and Grandchildren on a Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruises

With so many activities for grandparents and grandchildren to enjoy together, a cruise vacation is the perfect choice for multi-generational families.

Fun Activities for kids in Alaska | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Fun activities for kids abound on an Alaska cruise. Embark on a thrilling journey with young explorers through breathtaking landscapes.

How to Plan a Summer Getaway Cruise That's Fun and Relaxing For All

Travel tips on planning a summer getaway cruise for kids to be one of your best summer vacations filled with fun relaxing adventures among friends and family.

Dive Into Alaska Traditions on Your Next Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Whether you're curious about Alaska native culture or other Alaska traditions, here's how to make these an integral part of your trip up north.

How to Get Travel Tuesday Cruise Deals | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Travel Tuesday cruise deals go live at midnight on Cyber Monday, and are designed to bring you discounts on experiences that you'll remember for a lifetime.

Best Affordable Summer Vacations for Families | Royal Caribbean Cruises

A smaller budget doesn't have to mean less fun. Families can look to budget cruises for affordable summer vacations that appeal to kids and adults alike.

Grenada Snorkeling: Best Places to Snorkel When Visiting St. George | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Ready to explore the best of the Caribbean's underwater world? These are some of the top spots for Grenada snorkeling near St. George's cruise port.

Planning All-Inclusive Family Vacations: Tips and Tricks | Royal Caribbean Cruises

All-inclusive family vacations, whether at a resort or on a cruise, offer the convenience of one-stop booking and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Enjoy the Ultimate Family Vacation by the Pool on Icon of the Seas

With a pool for every day of the week, Icon of the Seas makes it easy to maximize every sun-dappled moment onboard during the ultimate family vacation.

6 Memorable Family-Friendly Attractions in the Caribbean

Looking for some top family-friendly attractions in the Caribbean? Here are the best things to do for kids and adults alike.

How to Plan the Best Hawaii Family Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Want to wow your family? Follow this guide to planning the best Hawaii family vacation.

9 Tips for Preparing Your House for an Extended Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Preparing your house for an extended vacation can seem like a huge task, but doing a few things before you go will make your trip carefree.

5 Top Kid-Friendly Places in Mexico

The best kid-friendly places in Mexico include museums, leafy plazas and ancient ruins that kids of all ages will love.

Top Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Jamaica

As a kid, I used to travel to Jamaica frequently. My parents loved traveling to the island because of the amount of kid-friendly things to do in Jamaica.

World Cruise Segments - Take One, or Take Them All!

Learn about the world cruise segments, which you can take separately or take them all for the most epic around-the-world cruise

Planning a Mini-Vacation from Los Angeles

Before embarking on cruises out of Los Angeles, enjoy a mini-vacation from LA, which might include Palm Springs, Mexico or San Diego.

How Do I Prepare My Kids for a Cruise? | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Wondering, "How do I prepare my kids for a cruise?" Check out these expert tips and activities to keep kids busy and engaged on port and sea days.

Traveling With a Toddler to Perfect Day at CocoCay | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Traveling with a toddler is easy when you book a cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Read on for advice and tips for traveling with a toddler.

Why You Should Take an Alaska Summer Vacation Cruise

Most people tend to focus on the Caribbean for summer cruises, but an Alaska summer vacation can be a great option, too.

Family Cruises Onboard Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Icon of the Seas is loaded with features that cater to families traveling together. Here’s how to plan the perfect family getaway onboard.

Great Ideas for Family Summer Vacations

If you're looking for great ideas for family summer vacations, take your kids on a Caribbean cruise. Cruises offer fun, safe places to travel on a budget.

Last-Minute Family Vacation Ideas

Create memorable moments. Take advantage of last-minute family vacation deals by spontaneously booking a holiday cruise for all those who you choose.

Best Restaurants on Spectrum of the Seas

Maximize your cruise vacation with the best restaurants when sailing on Spectrum of the Seas. Find the free places to eat as well as fine dining options.

Single-Parent Vacation Cruises with Kids

Discover the best travel tips to booking single-parent vacation cruises with your children traveling alongside for all the adventures and family fun.

Family Vacations on Spectrum of the Seas

Plan the most unique family vacation with the secret advantage to traveling with ease. Adventure awaits those who seek it, create your greatest experience.

Best Exotic Petting Zoos in Florida

Planning to visit the best petting zoos for exotic animals before your cruise vacation out of Florida? Enjoy insider details on these unique experiences.

Perfect Summer Getaways with Family

The best summer getaways are planned together. Create a family cruise as you sail on the perfect summer vacation to the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, and more.

Best Black Friday Travel Deals

Find where to get Black Friday travel deals for big savings on your ideal family getaway. Get the best Black Friday travel deals when taking a vacation on a budget.

7 Can't-Miss Cabo Day Trips

Discover the best things to do while traveling on your Cabo San Lucas day trip as you voyage on a vacation getaway to visit Mexico for the perfect cruise!

Winter Activities that Bond the Family

Whether you are taking a winter vacation around the world or playing games in the snow at home. Bonding over these fun family activities is sure to warm hearts.

What to Pack for a Cruise with Your Kids

Knowing what to pack for a cruise with your kids just got easier for the whole family when using our packing list of essentials. Start your trip with ease!

Things to Do on Wonder of the Seas

With a wealth of onboard cruise attractions and experiences discover 10 of the best things to do onboard Wonder of the Seas for a vacation getaway.

How to Relax on Your Cruise: Bedtime Stories

Discover how you can reach maximum relaxation during your next cruise. Find the most relaxing bedtime stories to chill while on vacation.

The Best Family Vacation On Explorer of The Seas

Explorer of the Seas is a great choice for the best family vacation. Learn how you can maximize your family time onboard.

Family Vacation Cruise Ideas for the Holidays

Start a new holiday tradition of taking a family vacation cruise while creating relaxing personal experiences for everyone with scenic destinations around the world.

Sailing With the King of Broadway: History Spotlight

Legendary composer Andrew Lloyd Webber might not seem relevant to your next cruise, but he's certain to intersect with your onboard entertainment experience.

Holiday Vacations Around the World

Planning a holiday vacation? How about New Year's Eve in Sydney? Here are the most beautiful travel destinations to visit during the holidays around the world.

One Day, Three Ways At Perfect Day At Cococay

Planning your time at the new CocoCay? If you want to unwind, head to Chill Island on the east side of CocoCay. Or visit the Oasis Lagoon or the Thrill Waterpark to get on the side of adventure.

Top Tips for Planning a Cruise to Alaska

Discover the top tips for planning a cruise to Alaska and uncover the best times of the year to spot Alaskas wildlife, locate must-see attractions, find Alaskan cruise deals and more.

Best Family Cruise Vacation on Allure of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Are you planning your next family vacation? Check out these family cruise tips for maximizing your cruise on Allure of the Seas.

Insider Tips To Saving Money On A Family Cruise Vacation

From Kids Sail Free promotions to the best places to eat on a cruise for free. Discover these amazing insider tips to saving money on a family cruise vacation.

10 Best Family Spring Break Vacation Destinations

Looking for spring break ideas for the family. Explore the 10 best family spring break destinations in the United States and the Caribbean and find the perfect mix of relaxing and adventurous vacation destinations.

Best Family Vacation On Odyssey of The Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

If you’re looking to plan an amazing family cruise vacation, the brand-new Odyssey of the Seas overflows with fun activities for kids and family-friendly entertainment.

The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Vacation to Perfect Day at CocoCay

Set sail to the best kid-friendly destination in the world on a cruise from Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to Perfect Day at CocoCay and discover all the amazing family-friendly activities, award-winning shows, and record-breaking attractions.

Amazing Family Friendly Summer Cruise Vacations

Enjoy your family summer vacation on a cruise to Perfect Day CocoCay and discover the private islands beautiful beaches, kid-friendly attractions, great restaurants and record-breaking water rides and activities for all ages. Find summer cruise deals.

7 Perfect Puerto Vallarta Day Trips

Set sail on a cruise vacation and discover the best things to do while traveling on your Puerto Vallarta day trip. Plan your Mexico getaway your way!

6 Caribbean Vacation Wardrobe Packing Tips

Build the perfect Caribbean vacation wardrobe for your next getaway cruise with these travel packing tips. Craft a stylish cruise outfit for everyday!

Plan the Best London Day Trips Ever

Set sail on a getaway cruise vacation and discover the best things to do in London while enjoying your day trips. Experience history, Harry Potter, and more!

Best Botanical Gardens in Jamaica

Uncover the most stunning botanical gardens in Jamaica as you plan the best Caribbean vacation getaway. Enjoy the lush landscape & relaxing nature.

Family Cruises | Voyager of the Seas

Envision your next travel vacation, as you plan the best family cruise getaway while sailing onboard the Voyager of the Seas. Unexpected cruise activities.

Family Cruises | Wonder of the Seas

Envision your next travel vacation, as you plan the best family cruise getaway while sailing onboard the Wonder of the Seas.

The Best Travel Gifts for Dad’s Next Vacation

Dads deserve to be spoiled. Plan the ideal cruise vacation trip with an infographic guide and get ready to make memories to last a lifetime.

Planning a Memorable Dubai Vacation

Traveler’s guide to planning a memorable Dubai vacation filled with extraordinary things to do while making the most of your journey across the world.

Tips for Your Panama Canal Cruise

Take a moment to make the most of your Panama Canal cruise vacation. Uncover what you might not know about this tiny and fascinating country as you travel.

Family Vacation Ideas for Cruises

Take a moment to make the most of your family vacation, uncover the best places to visit when taking a cruise for everyone. Enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Swimming with Dolphins in Jamaica

Plan the ultimate swimming with dolphin experience in Jamaica as you make the most of your Caribbean vacation travels. Enjoy a tailored adventure guide.

Fun Mother Daughter Vacation on a Cruise

Get inspiration for your next mother-daughter day onboard. Cruises are ideal for having fun with your family during an amazing vacation.

Ways to Give Back to the Community

There are many easy and impactful ways to give back to the community this holiday season. Spread the joy of holiday charity as a gift to your local area.

Adult-Only Relaxing Cruises For Moms

Relaxing on a cruise has never been easier with these kid-free ideas. Enjoy an adult-only vacation while on a cruise with your family.

Fun European Cities to Visit With Kids

Traveling with kids? Here are some fun European cities to visit on your next European cruise — plus tips to make it a memorable, stress-free experience.

How to Plan the Best Family Cruises Onboard Quantum of the Seas

Dive into out-of-this-world adventure on the groundbreaking Quantum of the Seas®, where far-flung feats, treats and eats make for unforgettable, one-of-a-kind memories.

Planning a Rome Vacation From the Sea and Beyond

Here are some Rome vacation must-sees and tips on how to navigate travel when arriving or departing via cruise through Civitavecchia.

Where to Find the Best Skiing in the Alps

Here's everything you need to know about skiing in the Alps, including where to stay and when to visit.

What's the Best Travel Credit Card for Rewards and Benefits?

This guide to the best travel credit card focuses on the benefits of traveling with a credit card and the best cruise credit card for rewards and benefits.

Relaxing Vacation Spots in the Caribbean

Visit tranquil places in the Caribbean, like the cenotes of Mexico, to find the most relaxing vacation spots.

Best Caribbean Islands for Families

The best Caribbean islands for families offer beaches, adventures, and new experiences. Plan your family-friendly Caribbean vacation today.

How to Plan a Cruise for the First Time

Read up on how to plan a cruise for the first time, including tips on what to pack, where to go and how to select the perfect itinerary for your vacation.

How To Plan a Trip for Relaxing Vacations

From organizing ahead to avoiding overpacking and fostering a new mindset, here's how to plan a trip for creating a relaxing vacation in eight easy steps.

Vacation Ideas for Families on Icon of the Seas

Travel with the best family vacation ideas possible onboard Icon of the Seas. Encounter top level cruise experiences and its seven neighborhoods.

Bahamas Travel Hacks for Families

If you're taking the whole family on a Bahamas vacation, we've got some travel hacks for families to make your kid-friendly trip easier.

Relaxing Family Vacations & Getaways

Discover why cruises are the best fit for large families. Find flexible dining options, age-appropriate activities, & adult spaces to bond.

Best Family Vacation Onboard Adventure of the Seas

Experience the ultimate family adventure onboard Adventure of the Seas! Book your best family vacation and set sail on the adventure of a lifetime.

How to Budget for a Vacation

Reveal all the best tips on how to budget for an affordable family vacation getaway. Ensure your travels with less stress and more enjoyment.

Family Vacation Ideas on Symphony of the Seas

Uncover all the exciting family vacation ideas and travel activities that are waiting for you onboard a cruise getaway with Symphony of the Seas.

Family Vacations on Liberty of the Seas

Embark on the best family vacation aboard Liberty of the Seas. Experience the ultimate adventure and create unforgettable travels with your loved ones.

Family Vacations on Harmony of the Seas

Uncover all the exciting travel activities and ideas for the best family vacation waiting for you onboard a cruise getaway with Harmony of the Seas.

Family Vacations on Navigator of the Seas

Navigator of the Seas offers endless opportunities for you to bond with your loved ones. Discover all the exciting family vacation ideas and travel activities.

Family Cruise Activities on Ovation of the Seas

Uncover the best ideas for family cruise activities! With all kinds of unforgettable fun, a relaxing trip on Ovation of the Seas will top your watchlist.

FIND A CRUISE NEAR YOU

Adventure is closer than ever browse through our helpful guides to find the perfect cruise sailing from your backyard. from weekend getaways to weeklong explorations, there are countless thrilling options for cruises near you..

The Best Cruises From Florida

Discover some of the most amazing islands you can visit in the best cruises from Florida. Learn tips on how to maximize a few days before or after your cruise at this amazing departure port.

Galveston Top Rated Attractions and Tours

From the historical Galveston Ghost Tours and the Taste of the Strand Tours to bird-watching at the Bolivar Flats and visiting the historical Bishop's Palace and Moody Mansion. Here are Galvestons top rated attractions and tours you dont want to miss.

Cruises From LA: Amazing Destinations

Cruises from Los Angeles are the best way for you to discover the Mexican Riviera. Jump onboard a Baja Cruise from Los Angeles and start an amazing family vacation.

Best Cruises From Miami

Cruise from Miami and start your vacation in one of the worlds best places to visit, then set sail from the Port of Miami to The Bahamas, Mexico, Puerto Rico and beyond on weekend getaway cruise or a longer Caribbean adventure. Here are the best cruises from Miami

7 Best Cruises From New Orleans

Cruise from New Orleans to the Bahamas on affordable cruise vacations to the Caribbean with stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Cozumel, Roatan, Belize City, Key West, Nassau, and Costa Maya. Find cruise deals out of New Orleans

9 Cool Things to Do on Short Cruises From LA

Explore 9 cool things to do on short cruises from Los Angeles with Royal Caribbean Cruises. Top-rated vacation destinations in the Baja Coast, including Catalina Island and Ensenada.

24 Hours in Miami, What to See and Do

Follow our one-day guide to experiencing Miami, and you’ll get a pretty well-rounded taste of this melting pot metropolis. Discover the best things to see and do with 24 hours in Miami.

Best Cruises From Texas

Royal Caribbean offers plenty of great itineraries to choose from if you’re looking for an unforgettable cruise from Texas. Keep reading to discover the best spots.

10 Best Breweries in Los Angeles

Craft beer lovers, come thirsty and hoist a pint in some of the best breweries in Los Angeles and beyond!

The Best Cruises From The New York Area

From the sun-dappled Caribbean to the quaint Canadian coast, you won’t believe how many incredible places you can sail to on a NY cruise. Here are just some of the fascinating places you can cruise from the New York Area.

Explore the Fun-Filled Cruises Out of Tampa

From the tropical islands of the Caribbean to the European shores, discover all the amazing places you can visit on a cruise out of Tampa. Here are 10 of the fascinating places you can cruise to from Tampa Florida.

Best Summer Vacation Cruises From New York

Your guide to the best summer vacation destinations you can cruise from New York. Check some new vacation destinations off your bucket list on the perfect New York cruise.

Best Cruises From Orlando

Maximize your vacation on an adventures cruise from Orlando and experience translucent water caves in the Bahamas, water-soaked adventures at Perfect Day CocoCay and breathtaking views at every destination. Here are 10 amazing destinations you can cruise to from Orlando.

Best Cruises From Orlando, Florida

Looking for a great weekend getaway? Cruise from Orlando to the Western Caribbean islands on a 3 night Bahamas and Perfect Day Cruise or longer 7 night western caribbean cruise out of Port Canaveral. Find cruise deals from Orlando FL.

Best Cruises From Fort Lauderdale

Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas on a weekend getaway cruise or longer 7 Day Caribbean Cruise that takes you to Nassau, Perfect day at CocoCay, St. Maarten, San Juan, Cozumel and Falmouth. Find cruise deals out of Ft. Lauderdale

9 Galveston Vacation Must Know Facts

Galveston vacations are totally underrated. This charmingly fascinating Texas beachside town is teeming with history and tons of interesting facts.

Top 10 Florida Birding Hotspots | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Explore the best bird-watching spots in Florida! Our comprehensive guide offers insider tips and information for an unforgettable birding vacation.

TOP THINGS TO DO

There’s no time for tame on vacation. take a peek at our travel tips for ideas on the top things to do onboard our award-winning ships. plus, learn about all the must-dos at top travel destinations..

[Infographic] What to Drink at Perfect Day at CocoCay

April 15, 2024

From the island's signature Coco Loco drink to its elevated Coco Cuvée, Perfect Day at CocoCay offers a wide range of sips worth getting excited about onshore.

The Top Free Things to Do Onboard Adventure of the Seas

April 12, 2024

Discover free things to do on your Adventure of the Seas vacation! Explore exciting destinations without breaking the bank. Affordable experiences await.

Free Things To Do Onboard Explorer of the Seas

Learn about some of the best free things to do onboard Explorer of the Seas. You don’t need to blow your budget in order to enjoy an unforgettable vacation.

Free Things To Do Onboard Freedom of the Seas

A guide to some of the best free things to do onboard Freedom of the Seas, so you can spend less time planning and more time experiencing all the complimentary thrills.

Free Things on Harmony of the Seas

Discover free things to do on your Harmony of the Seas vacation! Explore exciting destinations without breaking the bank. Affordable adventure awaits.

Top 10 Free Things to Do on Ovation of the Seas

Discover what’s included from dining venues with free food to free activities and entertainment, you’ll be amazed with a vacation on Ovation of the Seas.

Free Things to Do on Quantum of the Seas

Discover what’s included from dining venues with free food to free shows and entertainment, you’ll be amazed traveling on Quantum of the Seas.

What's Free Onboard Wonder of the Seas

Enjoy the best cruise activities when vacationing onboard Wonder of the Seas with travel tips on free places to eat as well as included onboard attractions.

Insider Tips to Maximizing Your Time at Perfect Day at CocoCay

Discover Perfect Day at CocoCay insider tips and learn what to bring, what to expect, how to make cabana reservations and how to find your way around the island.

Top Things to Do on Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

This larger-than-life cruise ship offers endless onboard activities to fill all your sea days.

How to Plan the Best Family Cruises on Serenade of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Whether you’re traveling with adult relatives, small children, or the whole extended family, this Radiance Class cruise ship offers something for everyone.

Take Your Perfect Day at CocoCay® to the Next Level | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Who said you shouldn't mess with perfection? Visit a thrilling water park or a relaxing lagoon to make your Perfect Day at CocoCay® even better.

Berlin for Oktoberfest: What To Know Before You Go | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Berlin for Oktoberfest is one of the world's best parties. Here's everything you need to know before you go on your cruise to Berlin.

Alaska Souvenirs to Take Home With You So You Never Forget Your Trip | Royal Caribbean Cruises

After traveling somewhere new, you want to bring something back with you to remember all of your fun adventures. Don't miss these Alaska souvenirs.

[INFOGRAPHIC] A Guide to the Best Cruise Ship Restaurants

Planning a getaway at sea with Royal Caribbean? Treat your inner foodie to the best cruise ship restaurants with this guide to cruise ship dining.

How to get from Brightline trains to port? | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Cruising out of South Florida has never been easier, thanks to convenient routes on the high-speed Brightline train.

The Top 10 Things To Do Onboard Oasis of the Seas | Royal Caribbbean Cruises

Enjoy an outlined list of the top 10 fun things to do onboard Oasis of the Seas to help get your vacation-planning ideas flowing for your travels.

The Spookiest Places in Europe for Ghost Hunters | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Seeking scary places to visit? These are some of the spookiest places in Europe, from the streets of London to the forests of Transylvania.

Making the Most of a Seven-Night Western Caribbean Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruises

What to do on a seven-night western Caribbean cruise including the best destinations to visit, what to pack, top shore excursions and cruise travel tips.

Big Ben Facts to Know Before Your Next Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover the most fun Big Ben facts, plus facts about the royal family and its connection to Elizabeth Tower and the Houses of Parliament.

Dive Into the Epic History of Hawaiian Surfing | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Travel back in time and discover the history of Hawaiian surfing and how it went from a royal pastime to an international sport.

9 Things to Do in Galveston with Kids | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Family activities in Galveston range from exploring pirates and ghosts to heading to the beach and local water parks. Here's a list of our favorites.

Best of Boston: Sights, Bites and Delights | Royal Caribbean Cruises

A best of Boston guide full of ideas for the best Boston tours including harbor cruises, ghost walks, historic and nature walks and major league sporting.

Polynesian Culture in Hawaii: History of Dancing and Island Influences | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Hawaii is more than resorts, volcanoes and beaches. The best trips to these paradise islands invite you to discover Polynesian culture in Hawaii.

Hawaii Vacations for Couples: 8 Most Romantic Spots To Visit | Royal Caribbean Cruises

A guide to Hawaii vacations for couples including where to go, what to do and how to amp up the romance on a Hawaiian cruise to the islands.

Hawaii Hidden Gems: Secret Beautiful Places for Vacation | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The most beautiful Hawaii hidden gems including secret spots on Oahu, Big Island, Maui and Kauai. Includes hikes, gardens, black sand beaches and more.

Tour Galveston's Historic Homes

Galveston's historic homes are a great introduction to this exciting city. Find out some of the must-see historic homes, and when and where to tour them.

Celebration Travel Tips & Vacation Ideas

Celebration travel accounts for an estimated 60% of cruise bookings. Here are some vacation ideas for your next birthday, graduation or anniversary.

Visiting Los Angeles From the Sea | Royal Caribbean Cruises

These tips for visiting Los Angeles on a California cruise include what to pack, the best things to see and how to experience this West Coast destination.

New Orleans Voodoo History | Royal Caribbean Cruises

A surge of freed Haitians entered Louisiana, bolstering the Voodoo population and introducing new rituals and beliefs into the New Orleans community. Learn more about the history of New Orlean’s Voodoo.

[Infographic] Top 5 Museums in Galveston

Headed to the Texas Gulf Coast? Whether or not you stop there before cruising, these are the top five museums in Galveston you should check out.

What Is the Best Way to See Alaska? | Royal Caribbean Cruises

As you plan your Alaska vacation, you might be torn between traveling by cruise ship, plane or even car. Here's how to decide the best way to see Alaska.

Enjoying Breakfast in Rome

While it's true that many Italians take a quick, casual approach to the day's first meal, your breakfast in Rome will be anything but forgettable.

9 Family-Friendly Things To Do in Miami Before a Cruise

A comprehensive list of family-friendly things to do in Miami before a cruise that will excite the whole family.

Lace Up for the Best Ice Skating in the World | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Ice skating is an exciting activity for families and couples. When you cruise on the World Cruise, you can discover the best ice skating in the world.

Best Things to Do in Baltimore | Royal Caribbean Cruises

There are so many things to do in Baltimore. It's full of history, good food, amazing culture and fascinating people.

Best Vacation Spots in Alaska in the Summer

Alaska in the summer is a must for adventure travelers looking for wilderness hiking, epic glaciers, dog sledding, and sea kayaking

Hawaiian Traditions: A Deep Dive Into Luau History

Learn about luau history, its traditions, and how to experience this unique Hawaiian celebration.

Mexico Weekend Getaways from LA | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy Los Angeles and new Mexican flavors and vistas during one of our Mexico weekend getaways.

Best Cruise Ship Pools are on Icon

Icon of the Seas features some of the best cruise ship pools in the world, not to mention water slides that break records and private areas for adults.

Local Things to Do in Barcelona

Discover the best things to do as a local while traveling to Spain for your own Barcelona vacation experience with these helpful ideas & travel tips.

Things to do on a Catalina Island Vacation

Discover the best things to do on a Catalina Island vacation from where to eat and relax to top family-friendly activities and wildlife watching spots.

Rainforest Pyramid | Moody Gardens

Travel tip when planning a Galveston vacation, don’t miss your chance to visit Texas’ Rainforest, Aquarium, and Discovery Pyramids in Moody Gardens.

Best Fishing Trips in Florida

Where are the best fishing spots in Florida? What is the top location to plan a fishing trip before my cruise? Start your search for the ideal fishing getaway.

10 Amazing Los Angeles Day Trips

Discover the best things to do while traveling on your Los Angeles day trip as you voyage on a cruise vacation from California for the perfect getaway trip!

7 Memorable Mazatlan Day Trips

Voyage on a cruise vacation and discover the best things to do while traveling on your Mazatlan day trip. Visit Mexico for a perfect getaway!

Local Jamaican Dishes & Delicacies

Discover the most delectable Jamaican dishes as well as a few of the best-known restaurants to visit during your next vacation cruise to Jamaica.

Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Wonder of the Seas

With an abundance of onboard cruise restaurants and fine dining experiences discover the top cruise foods aboard Wonder of the Seas for a vacation sensation.

Things to Do on Spectrum of the Seas

Plan a vacation with many onboard cruise sensations. Discover the top 9 things to do while traveling onboard Spectrum of the Seas.

Top Mediterranean Cruise Experiences

From Mykonos to Malta, we’ve curated a collection of the top spots to have a luxurious experience on your Mediterranean cruise.

Things to Do on Serenade of the Seas

Make your vacation a sensation with onboard cruise attractions and experiences! Discover the top 10 things to do onboard Serenade of the Seas.

Caribbean Speed Boat Tours

Create the best speed boat adventure experience while on your cruise to the Caribbean. Enjoy the ultimate travel guide made for your next vacation voyage.

Things to Do on Ovation of the Seas

With so many onboard cruise attractions and experiences discover the top 10 things to do onboard Ovation of the Seas for a vacation temptation.

Top 11 Must-Try Mediterranean Foods

Mediterranean food is renowned worldwide for being exceptionally healthy and balanced. Here are the top 11 must-try Mediterranean foods.

Top 10 Waterfalls to Visit in Jamaica

Discover the top 10 famous waterfalls to visit in Jamaica while traveling on your cruise vacation as you enjoy an abundance of hidden destinations.

Top 9 Things to Do on Independence of the Seas

Here are the top 9 things to do onboard Independence of the Seas. Independence of the Seas has become a guest favorite thanks to all its activities.

Conquer the World's Longest Zip Line in Alaska

Don’t wait any longer, riding the world's longest zip line in Alaska will be an experience you'll never forget while on your next Alaskan mountain adventure.

Dog Sledding Tours

There's nothing like an amazing adventure during an Alaskan vacation, and if you're looking for things to do then dog sledding is a bucket-list experience.

Top 10 Things to Do on Mariner of the Seas

Here are the top 10 things to do onboard Mariner of the Seas. Mariner of the Seas is loaded with fun onboard attractions and unforgettable experiences.

Best Mexican Rivera Cruises

Do you want to escape to the Mexican Rivera? Discover Baja, Ensenada, and Cabo San Lucas onboard the best cruise ships.

Best Things To Do On A Cruise

Explore the Oasis Class ships seven neighborhoods and discover the best things to do on a cruise that delivers a larger than life experience. Find deals for cruises on the Oasis class ships

Top 10 Things To Do Caribbean Islands

From reggae music and art museums to cobblestone lanes and leafy plazas, the Caribbean islands each have their own distinct flavor. Explore this selection of the top 10 things to do in the caribbean islands.

Ultimate Guide To Oasis Lagoon

The best Oasis Lagoon at Perfect Day at CocoCay insider Tips to discovering all the amazing things to do, family-friendly attractions and thrills you don't want to miss. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Top 5 Southern Caribbean Islands to Visit

Cruise to the best Southern Caribbean Islands and explore the most beautiful destinations in the Caribbean from the white-sandy beaches in Aruba to the vibrant capital city of Puerto Rico. Here are the top 5 Southern Caribbean islands you don’t want to miss.

Perfect Day Honeymoon Guide

Celebrate your newly-wedded bliss on a romantic Caribbean honeymoon cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay, the best Caribbean destination for newly married couples. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

The Ultimate College Spring Break Cruise Vacation

If you are looking for an all-out college spring break vacation filled with beach vibes, thrilling rides and amazing parties it doesn’t get any better than a spring break cruise to Perfect Day at CocoCay. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay

11 Adventurous Water Activites In Puerto Rico You Must Try

Discover all the amazing water activities in Puerto Rico that you must try from Scuba Diving with coral sharks, watching Forlorn Bays Light Up at Night, to ridding down natural waterslides when visiting Puerto Rico.

Top 7 Things to Do on Odyssey of the Seas

Here are the top 7 things to do onboard Odyssey of the Seas. The new Odyssey of the Seas has so many amazing onboard attractions.

10 Best Places to Visit in Turkey

Cruising to Ephesus soon? Here are the 10 best places to visit in Turkey, with something for every traveler.

20 Amazing Eastern Mediterranean Tours

From The Sultan Ahmed Mosque tour in Istanbul to the ancient history combined with breathtaking nature tours in Rhodes. Here is our top 20 list of the best tours for a Eastern mediterranean cruise vacation.

Top 7 Most Thrilling Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Experience the top 7 most thrilling things to do at the Perfect Day at CocoCay from sliding down the tallest waterslide in North America to zip lining across the island and much more.

Top 4 Insider Tips to Thrill Waterpark

Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day At CocoCay top 4 insider travel tips uncovers free things to do, places to go and thrills you can share with friends. Find cruise deals to Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Best Restaurants at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Explore all the restaurants on the Perfect Day at CocoCay island and discover all the complimentary dining venues that offers loads of food and drink favorites that will fuel you up in between adventures.

Guide To Chill Island at Perfect Day

Discover Chill Island insider tips to all the relaxing things to do from renting overwater cabanas with VIP services, snorkeling with the friendly manta rays to finding the best places to unwind and soak up the island vibes.

8 Things To Know Before You Visit Coco Beach Club

Packed with premium all-inclusive amenities, Coco Beach Club at Perfect Day at CocoCay provides guests with exclusive luxury vacation experiences and VIP treatment. Discover the top 8 things to know before you visit Coco Beach Club.

The 5 Most Relaxing Things to do at Perfect Day At CocoCay

Discover the most relaxing things to do on your luxury getaway to Perfect Day at CocoCay from the luxury CocoCay Overwater Cabanas to the most popular Chill Island Cabanas and much more.

Visit Australia for Kite Flying Vacation

Plan a trip for visiting Australia for a sky-high kite flying adventure. Make your Australian vacation a sensation with these travel temptations!

Sugarloaf Mountain Rock Climbing

Consider planning a Sugarloaf Mountain rock climbing trip for an exhilarating experience as you take a Brazil vacation cruise. Adventure awaits!

Top 10 Best Aquariums in Florida

Plan a day trip before or after your cruise to make the most of your vacation travels from Florida with a visit to the top 10 best aquariums.

Best Things to Do in St. John

Find the best things to do in St. John along with the need-to-know on how to get to the small Virgin Island for your own travel vacation getaway.

Things to Do on Voyager of the Seas

Plan the best vacation with all included onboard cruise activities and experiences! Discover the top 10 things to do onboard Voyager of the Seas.

Best Belize Landmarks to Discover

Envision your next Belize vacation cruise, plan a long or short getaway to visit famous landmarks such as the mysterious Great Blue Hole. Adventure awaits!

Art Basel Miami Day Trip Before a Cruise

Plan one of the best Miami day trip experiences before or after your cruise with an unforgettable visit to Art Basel. Enjoy every part of your vacation!

10 Australian Vacation Experiences

Make your Australian vacation a sensation with these travel temptations! Discover the top 10 remarkable things to do when visiting Australia.

Best Cruise Restaurants | Voyager of the Seas

With an abundance of onboard cruise restaurants and fine dining experiences discover the top cruise foods aboard Voyager of the Seas.

Adventure Traveling Jungle Tours

Uncover the ultimate jungle tours and adventure traveling experiences throughout the Caribbean and South America. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation cruise.

Galveston Camping: 10 Tips to Before You Go

Take a moment to make the most of your Galveston camping trip. Uncover the best campsites, when to visit, and adventurous things to do as you camp.

How to Haggle in Street Markets of the World

Uncover the ultimate guide on how to haggle like a local as you make the most of your world travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it.

Traveling in Thailand | Things to Do in Bangkok

Uncover the best things to do in Bangkok for making the most of your vacation when traveling in Thailand. Enjoy a guide tailored to your cruise travels.

Best Cruise Restaurants | Freedom of the Seas

Planning to dine at the best cruise restaurants onboard the Freedom of the Seas. Remain in the know with the ultimate cruise dining guide to sailing with success.

Planning a Barcelona Vacation From the Sea

A Barcelona vacation is always a good idea, but arriving at this iconic port of call by sea is a truly unique experience. Here's why.

10 Best Things To Do in Australia

From Melbourne to Sydney to iconic animal experiences and world-class wine regions, here are the 10 best things to do in Australia.

The Best South American Countries to Visit

Here's a guide to some of the best South American countries to visit on a cruise. Here, you'll find a beautiful land of wonder and adventure.

A Guide to the Best Places to Visit in the Caribbean

Each Caribbean island has its own identity, attractions, culinary delights and natural wonders. These are the best places to visit in the Caribbean.

What's Included in on a Cruise

New to cruising and unsure exactly what is included on a cruise? Read on to learn about all the fun things Royal Caribbean ships offer for free.

Cruise Ports Near Me: Midwest United States

As you browse cruises, the first question you ask will be "Where are cruise ports near me?" Here's how to choose a port, and what to do once you're there.

Best Day Trips From Tokyo on a Japan Vacation

Enjoy these vacation ideas for things to do while planning the best Japan day trips when visiting Tokyo. Make your trip an amazing experience with these tips.

Best Asian Countries To Visit for First-Timers

A guide to the best Asian countries to visit on a cruise for first-timers.

Best Things To Do in Athens, Greece, on Your Cruise Vacation

There is no shortage of things to do in Athens. The Greek capital has a history of more than 3,400 years to entertain you.

A Guide to Australian Beaches

Discover the best Australian beaches for families, wildlife spotting, lounging, learning how to surf and diving into authentic beach culture.

Go Extreme Cave Tubing in Belize

Intrigued by the thought of cave tubing in Belize? Here's everything you need to know before you book your next adventure for your vacation.

5 Best Ways to Experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Enjoying the best ways to experience Mardi Gras is easy when keeping these tips in mind for visiting New Orleans during this exciting, historic holiday.

Best Things to Do on Your Galveston Day Trip

Planning to visit Galveston? Here's how to plan the ultimate Galveston day trip, whether or not it is before or after a cruise out of Texas.

10 Facts About Turkey the Country

Planning to visit Turkey? We have the top 10 facts about Turkey the country, giving everything, you need to know to plan the best vacation trip.

Island-Hopping in the Caribbean for the Best Vacation Spots

Discover the best vacation spots while island-hopping in the Caribbean. With so much to see plan the ideal cruise with an infographic guide full of ideas & travel tips.

Best Caribbean Adventure Vacations

Your guide to some of the best adventure vacations in the Caribbean for thrill-seekers, with activities like volcano hiking, ziplining, and more.

Relaxing 7 Day Cruise to Europe

No matter which 7-day cruise to Europe you end up booking, here's how to plan a European vacation that's high on adventure with low added stress.

Top 8 Things to Do on Explorer of the Seas

Here are the top things to do onboard Explorer of the Seas. Explorer of the Seas unlocks a world of adventure for every traveler onboard.

Galveston Historic District: 9 Things to Do

The Galveston Historic District is a busy port city that is bursting with history and excitement. Explore some of the best things to do on the Strand.

Free Things to Do on Navigator of the Seas

Discover all the free places to eat along with the top complementary things to do on a vacation cruise getaway with Navigator of the Seas.

12 Best Places to Dance in San Juan, Puerto Rico

Dancing in San Juan is a favorite local thing to do. A great experience for those wanting to experience the joy and soul of Puerto Rican music.

Top 9 Things to Do on Allure of the Seas

Here are the top things to do on Allure of the Seas. There are so many things to do on this cruise ship, you’re going to wish you had more sea days to experience them all.

Top Things to Do on Liberty of the Seas

Uncover all the exciting travel activities and ideas on the top things to do that are waiting for you onboard a cruise getaway with Liberty of the Seas.

Cliff Camping while Extreme Hiking: The Do's and Don'ts

Looking to go cliff camping while extreme hiking? Don't miss our guide to the do's and don'ts of this thrilling outdoor adventure. Learn essential safety tips and gear recommendations to make the most of your experience.

10 Things to do on Rhapsody of the Seas

Discover 10 of the top ideas for things to do while traveling on a travel vacation onboard a cruise getaway with Rhapsody of the Seas.

11 Things to do on Adventure of the Seas

Uncover some of the best ideas for things to do while traveling on a family vacation onboard a cruise getaway with Adventure of the Seas.

The Ultimate Guide to a Blue Lagoon Iceland Vacation

Plan the ultimate Blue Lagoon Iceland vacation. Our guide covers top attractions, insider tips, and expert recommendations. Start planning now.

Quick Bahamas & Key West Vacations

Bahamas & Key West vacation getaways are perfect for travelers looking for pristine beaches, rich history, delicious food, & stunning wildlife encounters.

Fashion Week Places to Visit in Paris

Find all the top fashion places to visit in Paris and how to get there during Fashion Week getaway travels. Plan your France vacation!

FOR THE FOODIES

From mouthwatering dishes you can’t miss in bermuda to the most decadent desserts around the world, you’ll find the ultimate foodies guide for food lovers right here take a look and get ready to be hungry. .

What to Eat at Coco Beach Club

April 8, 2024

Perfect Day at CocoCay® is Royal Caribbean's® private island escape. It's best known for its thrilling water park, gorgeous cabanas and beautiful beaches, but it's also a foodie's dream come true.

Best Serenade of the Seas Restaurants | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Serenade of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Jewel of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Jewel of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Best Western Caribbean Street Food | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Sure, it's a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, but western Caribbean street food — with its diverse cultural richness — is also a draw.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Brilliance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Brilliance of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

Alaska Food: Where to Find the Best Food in Alaska | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The best Alaska food to try on a cruise includes king crab, salmon, fry bread, birch syrup, wild berries and more.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Rhapsody of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Rhapsody of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Odyssey of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Odyssey of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Icon of the Seas

Whether you’re a serious foodie or just appreciate the simple pleasure of a great meal, you won’t be disappointed by the cruise dining options onboard Icon of the Seas.

Dining Guide to Quantum of the Seas

With many great options for onboard cruise dining experiences, we have your guide to discovering the top places to eat on Quantum of the Seas.

Finding Speakeasy Bars Near Me

Planning to visit famous speakeasy bars around the world without the password? Enjoy insider details on traveling to these interestingly unique experiences.

Famously Popular Foods from Bermuda

Encounter most famous foods in Bermuda including Bermudian Fish Chowder, Rum Cake, and more. Envision your next foodie vacation.

Best Desserts in the World

Discover the most delightful foods to enjoy on a sweet-lover's journey as you treat yourself to the best desserts in the world. Plan your foodie vacation.

6 Caribbean Islands with Delicious French Cuisine

Find the best Caribbean Islands to visit with your cruise to eat like a French in the Caribbean. These islands were made just for you.

Best Food in Nassau, Bahamas

A guide to the best food in Nassau, Bahamas. Discover new flavors in restaurants by the water or within the historic city of Nassau.

Indonesian Food in the Caribbean

Encounter Indonesian food and how Indo Caribbean culture has influenced the flavors of Caribbean cuisine. Envision your next foodie vacation.

The Best Craft Breweries in Alaska

For all the beer lovers planning an Alaskan cruise vacation, we’ve curated the ultimate zythophile guide to visiting 5 of the best craft breweries in Alaska.

Best New York Foods Using NY Water

Sample the best foods in New York with our guide to uncovering the top places for enjoying the secrets of NY water in bagels, pizza, and doughnuts.

Five of the Best Mexican Food Dishes to Try

Discover local favorite foods including the best types of Mexican dishes to explore during your next vacation to Mexico for sampling its vibrant culinary history.

New Orleans Restaurants

Mr. Bs Bistro, Pascals Manale, Brigstens, Dragos Seafood Restaurant. Here are New Orleans best restaurants serving local NOLA dishes from backyard crawfish boils to chargrilled oysters and locally sourced seafood Gumbo.

Holiday Food Around the World

Planning a holiday cruise this year? Find traditional holiday dishes from around the world for an unforgettable culinary food vacation.

6 Popular Farm Foods from Spain

Here are six of the most popular farm foods from Spain. The headstrong Spanish farmers continue to produce some of the world's finest oranges, olives, and hams.

16 Best Foodie Vacation Destinations

Sink your teeth into tender succulent seafood in Maine, crave-worthy curries in Jamaica, French-inspired flavors of St. Maarten and many more indulgent dishes at these 16 Best Foodie Vacation Destinations.

Top 10 Restaurants On Allure of the Seas Cruise Ship | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Foodies love Allure of the Seas! Discover 10 onboard restaurants that will make you a believer.

Top 15 Food and Wine Destinations in The Mediterranean

Cruise to the Mediterranean and discover the regions top 15 food and wine destinations from the most famous tapas in Barcelona, to the endless choices of seafood in Greece and more. Find deals for cruises to the Mediterranean.

15 Best Traditional Puerto Rican Dishes

Cruise to Puerto Rico and experience Old San Juan distinct culture and the best traditional Puerto Rican dishes from the most popular Mofongo, the favorite street sandwich Tripleta and Puerto Ricos national dish Arroz con Gandules and more.

Best Comfort Food from Around the World

Encounter the best comfort food from around the world including Belgian frites, Croatian ice cream, and more. Envision your next foodie vacation.

Local Insight: Best Caribbean Rums

What are the different types of rum? How can you tell good Caribbean rum? Enjoy our vacation guide to the best places to travel for distilleries.

How to Choose the Best Olive Oil

Uncover the secrets to having the best olive oil in the world as well as the know-how on all the many types and their uses. Enjoy a guide tailored to you.

10 Best Breweries in Northeast America

Uncover the best breweries in Northeast America to make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

Eating in Italy | Local Food Traveling

Uncover the ultimate guide to eating locally in Italy as you make the most of your vacation travels. Adventure awaits those who seek it.

Turkish Desserts to Sweeten your Vacation

Turkish desserts are as pivotal to the experience of traveling in Turkey as a cruise through the Bosphorus Strait. Enjoy a guide tailored to your vacation.

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet

The Ultimate Sparkling Wine Cheat Sheet. Before you say "cheers" with your next glass of sparkling wine, take a moment to learn about what's inside the glass you're clinking.

Discover the Caribbean National Dishes

Caribbean cuisine is something you can't miss when visiting the region. Explore this guide to learn about the Caribbean National Dishes.

Enjoy the Best Breakfast in South America

Where to find the best breakfast in South America including Peru, Colombia and Brazil. What to eat and where to find the tastiest bites to start your day.

Israeli Food: Top 10 Must-Trys

Here's a list of some of the best Israeli food found in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa and beyond including sabich, shakshuka and bourekas.

Best Food Vacations & Holiday Recipes

Indulge in culinary delights on the best food vacations. Explore holiday recipes from around the world and discover the best places to visit for foodies.

Top Cruise Dining on Symphony of the Seas

Experience the best cruise restaurants onboard Symphony of the Seas for an unforgettable dream vacation. Book now for a stress-free getaway!

Famously Popular Street Foods

Explore culture through famously popular street foods on your Ultimate World Cruise. Enjoy the best food around the world from Mexico to Asia, & beyond.

Best Food on Navigator of the Seas

Experience exquisite dining on vacation with Navigator of the Seas cruise restaurants. Indulge in delectable cuisine and breathtaking ocean views.

Best Harmony of the Seas Restaurants | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Discover the best cruise restaurants available onboard on Harmony of the Seas for an unforgettable family vacation filled with delicious cuisine.

Top 9 Restaurants on Ovation of the Seas

Have your pick of all the best restaurants and dining option when planning a cruise vacation onboard the award-winning Ovation of the Seas.

Best Restaurants in Galveston

Enjoy this handy guide on the best local restaurants in Galveston when seeking the top places to eat on your visit to this Texas beach town.

Planning the Best Family Cruises on Wonder of the Seas

What's Free for Cruise Activities Onboard Wonder of the Seas

10 of the Best Things to Do Onboard Wonder of the Seas

Best of lists, discover where to find the 10 most beautiful beaches in the caribbean or the top european cities you can cruise to this summer. we’ve made a list of the best vacation spots to visit. read on and start planning.

Top 9 Free Things to Do on Symphony of the Seas

Discover what’s included from free activities to dining venues with free food, you’ll be amazed when taking a vacation onboard Symphony of the Seas.

Best Free Things to Do on Odyssey of the Seas

Your cruise fare includes so many great free things to do onboard. Discover the best free things to do onboard Odyssey of the Seas cruise ship.

Best Places to Visit in Ancient Egypt

There are so many great places to visit in ancient Egypt. Plan your vacation in Egypt from the wonder of its pyramids to the many temples and tombs.

Best Black Friday Vacation Deals

Make it easy to travel on a budget with the best Black Friday vacation deals for your dream getaways. Save big on Black Friday deals for vacation.

Europe Vacation: Best Places to Visit

There's more to a European cruise vacation than just packing your bags! Plan the perfect trip on your travel getaway to visit the best places in Europe.

Best Relaxing Beaches in Florida

Where are the best relaxing beaches in Florida? What is the quietest beach in Florida? Start your search for the most beautiful & secluded places to visit.

Best Mediterranean Cruise Destinations

Uncover 8 of the best Mediterranean cruise destinations while on your travel vacation. Adventure awaits those who seek it, enjoy a guide tailored to you.

The Best European Summer Vacations

Planning the best European summer vacations? We’ve curated the ultimate guide to visiting some of the most relaxing and legendary destinations to travel to in Europe.

Choose the Best Baja Mexico Cruise for You

Discover the best things to do on vacation as you enjoy numerous iconic destinations on your Baja Mexico cruise from Los Angeles including Ensenada and Cabo.

Best Cruises From Barbados

On the best cruises from Barbados, you can visit Trinidad, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. And some farther-flung destinations in Central and South America on longer itineraries.

The Best Caribbean Ports to See on Your Cruise

Discover the best Caribbean ports to see on your cruise. These Caribbean ports are filled with sights to enjoy an affordable Caribbean vacation.

10 Best Luxury And Standard Cruise Ship Accommodations

Explore the 10 best luxury and standard Royal Caribbean cruise ship accommodations from the luxurious 2-story Ultimate Family Suite with a dedicated concierge and VIP privileges to the less expensive Studio Stateroom designed for a perfect nights rest.

11 Fun Facts About the Best Caribbean Destinations

Discover 11 fun facts about the best Caribbean destinations. Plan your next visit to the Caribbean with around these surprising facts.

The Best Summer Vacation Cruises From The Northeast

Maximize your summer vacation with plenty of sun, underwater discoveries, street dancing and zip-lining on a Cruise from the Northeast to Bermuda, the Bahamas, Mexico and Perfect Day at Cococay.

Best of NYC: Visiting The Statue of Liberty

Enjoy the best of NYC before or after your next cruise from the New York area. Spend the day visiting Lady Liberty before cruising.

Best Mini Vacation Getaway Destinations

Envision your next travel trip, plan a short mini cruise to the Bahamas or a relaxing vacation getaway with a day trip in Oregon. Adventure awaits!

Best Summer Vacation Ideas & Spots

Plan your escape from the winter weather with the best summer vacation ideas for spots to keep the sunny skies and warm ocean breezes alive year-round.

Best Baja Fishing Trips in Mexico

Experience top Baja fishing trips on your next vacation. Plan the best travel adventure with expert precision and make unforgettable memories.

Best Places to See Northern Lights

On the hunt to travel to the best place to see the northern lights? From Alaska to Iceland to Norway, here's where, when, and how to see the northern lights.

Best Costa Rica Waterfalls for Vacation

Experience the best waterfalls in Costa Rica on your next vacation. Our curated guide offers a range of breathtaking destinations and adventures.

The Best Alaska Cruises

Your Guide to the Best Cruises From Alaska. Learn more about the most stunning destinations you can visit on an Alaska cruise from Seattle or Vancouver.

Best Scotland Castle Tours

There are over 1,500 Scotland castle tours to choose from. We've narrowed down a list of the most; historic, cultural, famous, and royal significance.

Vacation the Best Beaches in Galveston

Planning a Galveston beach vacation? From the best beach spots to hotels, restaurants, and shopping, your beach trip to Galveston starts here.

Best Adventure of the Seas Restaurants

Uncover the best places to eat on a cruise onboard Adventure of the Seas from specialty restaurants and fine dining to complimentary place for free eats.

PLAN YOUR CRUISE

Need help planning a vacation we’ve got you covered. check out our guides for everything you need to know to make the most of your getaway, like how to plan a cruise, what to pack and more., get to know your ship, learn cool tips about our ships — and read our cruise ship reviews and guides to learn the best things to do onboard, what’s included, and why we’re voted the best cruise line, year after year. we have all the details for you in one convenient place, free things to do on rhapsody of the seas | royal caribbean cruises.

Maximize your travels at no additional cost. Create your all-inclusive vacation experience with some of the best free things to do on Rhapsody of the Seas.

Free Things to Do on Grandeur of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Insider’s guide to all the best free things to do onboard Grandeur of the Seas both for cruising with kids and when taking an adults-only vacation.

What’s Free Onboard Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Icon of the Seas has a lot of affordable vacation options at no additional cost including free restaurants, fun activities, and many places to relax onboard.

Free Things To Do on Serenade Of The Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy our guide to some of the best free things to do onboard Serenade of the Seas. Spend time experiencing all the complimentary activities and food.

What’s Free Onboard Independence of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Find a breakdown of some of the top free things to do onboard Independence of the Seas when looking for what is included with your cruise vacation.

The Best Free Things to Do Onboard Brilliance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Brilliance of the Seas, smaller than Oasis Class cruise ships, offers an intimate low-key vibe that has kept a strong fanbase among vacation travelers.

What’s Free Onboard Radiance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Check out the full list of things to do that are included on Radiance of the Seas & browse popular itineraries to start planning your next vacation onboard.

What's Free Onboard Liberty of the Seas

When you sail onboard the much-loved Liberty of the Seas®, bold thrills, crave-worthy dining and maxed-out adventure are all included in your cruise fare.

Spectrum of the Seas Free Activities

Maximize your travels at no additional cost. Create your own all-inclusive vacation experience with some of the best free things to do Spectrum of the Seas.

Icon of the Seas Reveal What is included in a Cruise

Discover all the best things to do as we reveal what is included in a cruise onboard Icon of the Seas, the world's first Icon Class ship with Royal Caribbean.

Top Things to Do on Grandeur of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to all the top things to do onboard Grandeur of the Seas for cruising with kids and when taking an adults-only vacation.

Best Independence of the Seas Restaurants | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to the best places to eat on your cruise vacation while dining onboard Independence of the Seas at its many restaurant options.

The Top Things to Do Onboard Brilliance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Brilliance of the Seas makes it impossible to feel bored during a vacation! These top things to do onboard this beloved cruise ship make it a fan favorite for many.

Where to Find the Best Texas BBQ | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Whether you are looking for brisket, sausage or ribs, here's where to go for the best Texas BBQ in restaurants across the state.

Best Brilliance of the Seas Family Cruises | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to discovering the best family cruises for your next vacation onboard Brilliance of the Seas. Start sailing today.

The Best Eastern Caribbean Food | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Caribbean food, which spotlights spices, tropical ingredients and cultural influences.

Why Anthem of the Seas for the Best Family Cruises | Royal Caribbean Cruises

As part of the Quantum Class at Royal Caribbean, the Anthem of the Seas is an engineering marvel loaded from bow to stern with next-level features for families.

The Top Free Things to Do Onboard Anthem of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Find out what is free onboard Anthem of the Seas. Check out a full rundown of the dining options, shows, and cruise activities available for your vacation.

A Guide to Casino Etiquette | Royal Caribbean Cruises

This insider's guide to casino etiquette offers several casino tips and strategies that can help both beginers and advanced players.

How to Plan Unforgettable Family Cruises Onboard Radiance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy the best family vacation cruise possible while onboard Radiance of the Seas with our breakdown of tips and tricks to making the most of your getaway.

Best Restaurants on Anthem of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Get insider tips about the game-changing Quantum Class cruise ship, Anthem of the Seas, and its amazing restaurants accompanied by an unparalleled food scene.

Best Independence of the Seas Family Cruises | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy an insider’s guide to discovering the best family cruises for your next vacation onboard Independence of the Seas. Start sailing today.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Radiance of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Enjoy a rundown of all the dining options onboard Radiance of the Seas, plus a glimpse of some of the top menu items at each restaurant.

The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Liberty of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

The fan-favorite cruise ship from New York, Liberty of the Seas, is home to some of the best cruise restaurants in the entire Royal Caribbean fleet.

How to Have an Epic Family Vacation Onboard Rhapsody of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Planning your next epic family vacation starts today onboard Rhapsody of the Seas, a mid-sized cruise ship that is part of the Royal Caribbean Vision Class.

Travel in Style: Best Rooms on a Cruise Ship | Royal Caribbean Cruises

This handy guide gives you the scoop on the best rooms on a cruise ship, from budget-friendly options to royal suites.

Top 7 Restaurants On Explorer of the Seas Cruise Ship

To help make planning your meals on deck a little easier, we’ve rounded up some of the best dining options onboard Explorer of the Seas.

How to Choose the Best Rooms for Families on a Cruise Ship

How do you choose a stateroom on a cruise ship? Start researching the best rooms for families on a cruise ship now to make sure your trip is perfect later.

Making an Icon: Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises

Icon of the Seas is not just another cruise ship, it the very first in an all-new class being shown in the monthly video series, Making an Icon.

Things to Do on Radiance of the Seas

With an endless amount of onboard cruise attractions and experiences discover the top 10 things to do onboard Radiance of the Seas for your next vacation.

Top 9 Things to Do on Harmony of the Seas

Here are the top 9 things to do onboard Harmony of the Seas. Harmony of the Seas is an award-winning wonder that’s loaded with all kinds of incredible onboard experiences.

Top 10 Things to Do on Symphony of the Seas

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Best Cruise Tips for First-Timers

By Carnival Cruise Line

Are you taking a cruise for the first time? We’ve got you covered. We’ve gathered the 10 most important tips to know before for your first cruise with Carnival. Read on, and you won’t feel like a newbie for long with the following cruise advice for first-timers.

1. What to Wear

One of the most important first cruise tips is knowing what to wear . If you’re cruising to the Caribbean , of course, bring your best beachwear for fun in the sun. But you’ll also need to prepare for some surprises. Don’t get caught without the following, no matter where your cruise destination is:

• Always pack some gear for cool and rainy weather, such as a hoodie or light jacket.
• Wear water shoes or non-slip boat shoes with traction for getting safely around the ship.
• Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for shore excursions; leave high heels and fancy footwear in the stateroom.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunglasses or a hat

2. Know the Best Staterooms

Every stateroom is the best stateroom , but for your first-time cruise, it helps to know what’s right for your own needs. You’ll likely prefer one of the five types of staterooms . Here’s the quick lowdown on each:

• Balcony staterooms: Rooms with small outdoor balconies for invigorating sea breezes and perpetual views. They’re perfect for cruises to Alaska so you won’t miss any unexpected wildlife sightings.
• Interior staterooms: The most affordable rooms on the ship, designed for guests who love a little quiet cocoon to curl up in after a fun-filled day.
• Ocean view staterooms : Rooms with portholes or windows to gaze out at the ocean.
• Suite staterooms : Larger rooms for family cruises so you can all stretch out and relax together.
• Specialty staterooms: In select ships, you’ll find rooms with themed settings, such as the Family Harbor staterooms when traveling with kids, and the Cloud 9 Spa staterooms for couples or solo guests who want a pampering cruise.

3. Surprising Conveniences to Pack

One of the first things that guests want to pack is a camera. While DSLRs provide great, high quality photos, we recommend that beginner photographers take an inexpensive compact digital camera or they stick to their phone. This way, they can still enjoy their cruise and take great photos of their trip .

Here are some other helpful things that you should pack for your trip:

• Outlet adapters increase the number of plugs you’ll have in your stateroom.
• Dry bags are ideal for shore excursions.
• A sandless beach towel for beach excursions (and they fold down small).
• A lanyard to hold your identification and room essentials while on board and on shore.
• Biodegradable sunscreen is required for all water-based shore excursions, to protect the coral reefs and your skin.

4. How to Reserve Anything

Veteran cruisers know to make important reservations and bookings before they ever get on the ship. Make it a priority beforehand or in your first few hours on board to do the following:

• Babysitters: Grab spots in kids clubs if you’re traveling with family. For example, if you want some time at the onboard Casino , make it a priority to book Camp Ocean for your 2- to 11-year-olds, Circle “C” for your 12- to 14-year-olds and Club O2 for your 15- to 17-year-olds.
• Spas: Book your hair appointments at the onboard salon , time in the onboard medi-spa and a soak in Cloud 9 Spa’s Hydrotherapy Pool .
• Tours: If you haven’t already pre-booked your port activities, that’ll also take priority. Some shore excursions are more popular than others, and spots quickly fill up.
• Specialty Dining: Booking one-of-a-kind dining experiences is essential when going on a cruise. From Cucina Del Capitano to Steakhouse , there are plenty of unique experiences that will make your voyage unforgettable. However, it is important to make reservations to these restaurants quickly, as spots are limited and they fill up fast!

5. Indulge in Cuisine

One of the best things about a cruise is the choice of foods , both on and off the ship. A cruise is the best place to feed your hankering for deluxe hamburgers and your curiosity for exotic dishes and one-of-a-kind drinks .

Always check your booked ship to see your dining options. For example, enjoy premium cuts of beef paired with the Steakhouse wine list, which is recognized by the distinguished Wine Spectator Magazine’s Award of Excellence in 2019 .

For every port you visit, indulge in a local culinary treat or tour.

For example, cruise to Ketchikan and watch lumberjacks compete in axe throwing competitions, while you feast on all of the dungeness crab that you can eat! You can even head to Mexico’s port of Yucatán (Progreso) to brush up on your food photography skills while experiencing fine Mexican cooking and losing yourself in the local culture.

6. Know Your Ship

One of the best first-time cruise tips is learning that you can access a layout of the ships. Research your ship and enjoy virtual tours and view deck plans. Download the deck plans to a PDF file, print it out and review it before your cruise.

For ships you’ve already booked, the Carnival Hub App is a great tool that allows you to access your ship’s map. You can even get a copy of your ship’s map at guest services on embarkation day!

Although nothing takes the place of real-time experience, at least you’ll have your bearings before embarking.

7. How to Pay and Tip On Board

Carnival uses cashless cruising. All of your onboard expenses are charged to your own Sail & Sign Card . Just present the card when purchasing anything on board. You can check the balance of your Sail & Sign Card accounts at onboard kiosks or through the interactive TV system in your stateroom.

As for gratuities, those can be paid in advance through the hub app, while fine dining gratuities are paid onboard. With that said, there are indeed ATMs on board.

8. Know the Lingo

Before embarking (stepping on board) your ship, know a few terms to make your first-time cruise more comfortable. Here are a few choice words and terms to keep tucked in your back pocket during your first trip:

• Cruise casual: This is tasteful attire, which you can wear most nights during dinner. It includes slacks, khakis, jeans (but no cut-offs), long dress shorts and collared sports shirts for men. For women, it means casual dresses and skirts, summer dresses, blouses, pants, capri pants, dressy shorts and dress jeans (no cut-offs here either).
• Cruise elegant: This is evening wear for one or two nights of dinner on your cruise, specifically for when you’re eating in the main dining room . Men are asked to wear dress shirts and dress trousers, and a sports coat is suggested. Ladies dress in pantsuits, cocktail dresses, and elegant skirts and blouses. You may also have a formal night on board, where more formal wear is required.
• Early seating/late seating: This is an assigned schedule and seating for passengers in the main dining room.
• Open seating: This means there’s no fixed schedule and no seating arrangements.
• Stateroom steward: This is the person responsible for keeping your stateroom in order with your requests and amenities .
• Lido deck: This is the most popular deck on the ship because it’s where the outdoor pools are located.
• Upper deck: This is the deck that’s typically closest to the entertainment , fun and other outdoor deck areas.

9. Take Advantage of the Nightlife

Besides the onboard casinos, the variety of adult nightlife you’ll find on any ship rivals the most glittering nights you’d have during a vacation on land. Always check which events your ship will offer on board, but here are some guest favorites:

• The Punchliner Comedy Club : Here’s the best place for laugh after laugh.
• Dive-In Movies: Snuggle up on the poolside and watch the (movie) stars.
• Stage Shows and Playlist Productions : Enjoy musical productions on the high seas.
• Live Music : Come here to party along with live performances and jams on the lido deck.
• Piano Bar : This bar is for guests who love cocktails and singing for a good time.
• Nightclub : Here’s the spot for dancing to the hottest hits.

10. Find Some Peace and Quiet

Scope out the little nooks and crannies on your particular ship where you can get away for some quiet time:

• Serenity Adult-Only Retreat : Avoid the hoopla and come to this 18 and over lounging area to find complete peace on board.
• Cloud 9 Spa : Imagine being pampered in a spa while traveling to Bermuda . You have the choice of the hair and beauty salon , Medi-spa , facial treatments and massage . For men, there are men’s services on board for a ship-shape shave and more.
• The Library : Our ships come with a place for all the great literature you need to enrich your mind.
• Loft 19™ , only on Mardi Gras ™ : You’ll find a secluded retreat modeled after the world’s finest resorts.
• Make It With Michaels® : Find your creative streak with a calm, relaxed craft class.
• Art seminars and art exhibitions : Enjoy a cultivated good time while talking to art experts.
• Beauty treatments for your teens: ZSPA is a place where teens can get facials, mani/pedis, and new-found self-esteem. ZSPA is for teens only and it’s a place where they can feel pampered.

It’s perfectly okay to ask questions and learn as you go. There’s a lot of information for first-time cruisers to know , but cruise enthusiasts and crew members love to use their knowledge to guide other guests. After all, each of them started out with a first cruise. You’ll always feel comfortable on a Carnival cruise where you can relax, and even take some insider notes to share with others.

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47 Best Carnival Cruise Line Tips & Tricks

Looking for the best Carnival cruise tips and advice for your vacation?

Whether it’s your first cruise or you’re a Diamond level passenger (the highest tier of Carnival’s loyalty program, for those that have sailed more than 200 nights), there’s always more to know. Meanwhile, the cruise line is constantly innovating, making changes, and improving.

To help you out, we’ve rounded up dozens of our best Carnival cruise tips. The advice below can help you save money, save time, or generally just have a better trip.

Note: This article contains affiliate links. Cruzely earns a commission for purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.

1. If you’re a Carnival stockholder, you can get free onboard credit

It’s a little-known perk for investors. If you own at least 100 shares of Carnival’s stock, then you are eligible for free onboard credit . Your benefit is $50 for cruises fewer than 7 days and $100 for trips of 7 to 13 days. Take a cruise 14 days or longer, then you’ll get $250 in free onboard credit. Learn how to take advantage here .

Just know that it’s not without risk. Shares of Carnival have been all over the map following the health crisis. However, if you do own the shares, you’ll definitely want to get your onboard credit.

2. Find your room: Odd cabin numbers are on one side of the ship, even are on the other

It’s easy to get turned around on the ship. Hallways can seem to go on forever and cabin doors can all look the same. One tip is that just like a neighborhood street, odd-numbered cabins are on one side of the ship, while even-number rooms are on the other. So when you step out of the elevator to head to your cabin, you can know which side of the ship your room is located.

3. Keep an eye out for happy hour deals

Like to drink but want to save some money? Keep an eye out for the RedFrog Pub happy hour or other specials on the ship. There will be a mention in the daily schedule and also signs posted around the ship. During happy hour — which we’ve seen going on from about 2:30-4:30 in the afternoon when offered — drinks are half-priced. That can save you a ton versus the regular menu price.

4. Know That Carnival Ships Generally Have the Smallest Size Per Passenger

Don’t be surprised if on your Carnival cruise you feel a little crowded. That’s because according to our analysis, Carnival ships in general have the least amount of size per passenger . 

Taking the gross tonnage (a measure of ship size) of more than 100 ships and dividing by the total passenger count at double occupancy, Carnival’s fleet averages a ratio of around 33-35. Compare that to Royal Caribbean, which often comes in around 40 gross tons per passenger.

You can find your specific ship here and compare it to others.

5. BlueIguana Cantina serves breakfast burritos

While BlueIguana Cantina — a Mexican-themed restaurant on the ship — is known for lunch, most people don’t realize that it also serves some fantastic breakfast burritos. Fill up a tortilla with sausage, eggs, ham, and potatoes and you’ve got a hearty (and free!) breakfast that will keep you full all morning, no matter how active you are on ship or in port.

6. Free souvenir? Ask if there are game-used items in the casino

It may not be on every Carnival ship, but we recently took a cruise and got a free souvenir from the casino. We simply went to the cashier during a slow time during the day and asked if they had any used dice or cards. To our surprise, the cashier came back with a casino-used die with the Carnival logo on it… and it was absolutely free.

It’s not much, but it’s a fun little keepsake to remember our time on the ship.

7. Costco member? Try booking your next cruise through them for cash back

Truth is that every website has the same prices for cruises. However, if you buy through a third-party site (as opposed to Carnival.com), then you might get extra incentives like onboard credit.

Costco has some of the best incentives . For cruises booked through CostcoTravel.com, the store will give you a Costco Shop Card potentially worth hundreds (amounts vary by cruise). That’s much more than what other booking sites will give you. If you’re a member, it’s worth looking into before you buy your cruise.

8. The drinking age in most ports is 18 years old… but 21 on the ship

If you are sailing from the United States on Carnival, then you have to be 21 to drink alcohol on the ship. But if someone isn’t quite of age, they can drink when in most ports. Places like Mexico and The Bahamas have drinking ages of 18. That means people underage in the U.S. can still drink legally when visiting.

9. Carnival offers a 110% “Best Price Guarantee” on excursions

If you’re worried about getting the best deal on an excursion, don’t. Carnival offers a 110% guarantee . If you find the same excursion for cheaper somewhere else, then they will refund 110% of the price difference as onboard credit.

That doesn’t mean you can’t find cheaper things to do, but know that if you do buy an excursion through the cruise line, you’ll be covered.

10. Don’t forget to bring your phone to dinner

Hopefully it won’t be this way forever, but one of the changes following the health crisis? Menus and daily schedules are harder to find. Instead, you’ll see QR codes on tables to scan with your phone to bring up the menu in a restaurant. And daily schedules are available within Carnival’s app on your phone.

While we expect things will go back to normal, at least for now, bringing your phone with you to eat is a smart idea. But, if you forget, you can request a paper menu from the staff.

11. Book specialty restaurants early in the cruise for quieter dining

Specialty restaurants offer something a little different from the main dining room. Maybe that’s why later in the cruise it feels like they get more crowded as people search out more variety in meals. However, it seems like early in the cruise people aren’t as interested.

The result? On a recent cruise we were able to dine in a specialty restaurant on night two with only a handful of other passengers. It was a nice way to have a quiet dinner that felt more intimate than busier venues.

12. Trying to budget? Sodas cost $3; Beers cost $6-8

This isn’t so much a Carnival tip as just a heads up on what you’ll spend. Sodas run about three bucks. Beers will set you back about $6-8. Don’t forget to add in 18% gratuity, which is automatically included to the price.

Worried about the bill? Carnival also sells the CHEERS! drink package that gives you access to whatever you want for one daily price. These packages are convenient and can help you budget.

13. There can be a HUGE difference between ships

One thing to know is that not all cruise ships are created equal. This goes for every cruise line, and you’ll find it on Carnival. The oldest ships in the fleet were built in the 1990s while the newest — such as Carnival Celebration — are brand new.

During that span, what is expected of and can be done on cruise ships has soared. Carnival’s newest ships feature more amenities, restaurants, and activities than you can imagine compared to older ships.

In our opinion, the newer ships are better, but the quieter, smaller, and less-expensive trips on older ships also have a lot to offer.

14. Where to find the cheapest beer on the ship

Six or eight bucks for a beer can be tough to swallow. If you want the cheapest beer, then head to the buffet. Ships have self-serve beer stations. At these spots you simply swipe your card, and then you pull the handle to dispense beer. 

Brews are sold by the ounce, and a full-sized glass runs about $5. The beers on tap are limited, but if you don’t care what you drink, it’s a good way to save money.

15. Some paid restaurants offer free lunch

Specialty restaurants charge an extra amount for passengers to eat there. Prices vary depending on the spot, but it’s usually around $15-30 per person. One tip is that on Carnival places like JiJi Asian Kitchen or Cucina del Capitano offer lunch service that’s free. The menu is different than the dinner options, but there’s no charge and you can get something tasty outside of eating at the buffet. 

16. Be prepared for poor cruise payouts in the casino

It’s common sense that with a ship full of people looking to be entertained, the casino should be a popular place… and it is! But with a captive audience and no other casinos around, the onboard casinos aren’t so generous with their payouts .

Expect blackjack that pays 6-5 (instead of the usual 3-2) at the lowest limits and video poker machines that pay 6/5 instead of the optimal 9/6 payout.

17. Guy’s Burger Joint is popular. Try it for dinner for shorter lines

Haven’t heard of Guy’s Burger Joint ? That will change. The free restaurant is across Carnival ships and serves up some great burgers. It’s also extremely popular. Hours are normally 12-6 p.m. and lunch can see long lines.

If you don’t want to wait in line, check it out before it closes for the evening. Most people eat dinner elsewhere, so the lines are much shorter. If you’re an early eater, then grabbing a burger without a line is a smart move.

18. Save that deck chair… but only for 40 minutes

Chair hogs. Perhaps no one draws the ire of cruisers more than the person that goes down early in the morning and puts a towel down to reserve a prime location by the pool… only to leave it for hours.

Yes, you are allowed to save chairs on Carnival, but the official rules are for only 40 minutes — enough time to go grab a bite to eat. After that time the crew may remove your items to let someone sit in the chair.

19. The age limit to gamble on a Carnival ship is 18

While you have to be 21 to drink on the ship, gambling is a different story. Carnival allows those 18 years and older to play in the casino. So while you might not be old enough to play in Las Vegas, you can still play the slots, roulette, or blackjack on the cruise ship.

20. Formal night? Wear what you want, except these items…

What to wear on formal night can be stressful. The truth is, you can get by wearing most anything, as long as it’s not too casual . You don’t have to wear a tux or an evening gown (but some people do).

What you will want to avoid are things like sleeveless shirts, shorts, t-shirts, ball caps, flip-flips, and bathing suits. In other words, just about anything outside of what you’d wear to the beach is just fine.

Our suggestion is to try and dress up some, but don’t stress. And if you don’t want to change out of shorts and sandals, it’s your cruise. You can skip the formal night dining altogether and just eat somewhere other than the main dining room.

21. Avoid kids in the Serenity adults-only area

Some people don’t mind kids. Others want to relax without them running around. If you fall into that second group, check out the Serenity area on your Carnival ship.

This spot is for adults 21 years old and up. It features some cozy and comfy seating you won’t find elsewhere on the ship and often has its own dedicated bar area and hot tubs. 

Even if you don’t care about kids one way or the other, you’ll often find the Serenity area less crowded than the pool area and has more cozy, private spaces. 

22. Cruise insurance is important, but buy third-party

When you book your cruise, Carnival will give you the option of buying the Carnival Vacation Protection . It’s definitely worth it to have some insurance for your trip, however, we think you’re better off going with a third-party insurance policy.

These policies are usually the same or cheaper in price than Carnival’s policy and can provide more coverage. 

23. Ordering a pack of water is a smart move

Before you board, go online and order a pack of water from the Carnival FunShops. It costs about $10 for a dozen bottles, and it’s nice to have in the room. Passengers aren’t allowed to bring on bottles in their luggage (cans/cartons only), so you can’t bring on most water containers. Plus, having some water in the room is nice to keep from having to head to the dining room or buffet to get a drink. It’s always right there waiting for you.

24. Take your drinking into port to save some cash

Want to drink but not break the bank? Just head into port. While drinks on the ship can be pricey — $6-8 for a beer and $10-12 for a cocktail — the bars in port cater to thirsty cruisers with cheap drink specials.

Just taking a walk down the pier can save you tons. Beers for $2-3 are common, so you can easily save 50% in some cases, while also getting to enjoy the local scenery.

25. Don’t worry, you don’t need to learn another language for ports of call

It can be intimidating going to a foreign country. After all, most people don’t speak a foreign language. The good news is that cruise ports in The Bahamas and Caribbean are built for tourism.

Most people in ports speak English, so you don’t have to struggle through trying to speak another language. In addition, U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

26. Short on cash? Carnival offers $50 deposit sales regularly

If you’re short on cash but have plenty of time before you book your cruise, then keep an eye out for Carnival’s famous $50 deposit sales. During these sales, which usually occur a few times a year, you can book your cruise for just $50 down and then pay off the rest later. It makes it affordable to book that trip you’ve had your eye on.

27. TV channels are limited… don’t expect much

Want to watch your favorite show on your cruise? Then you’ll want to download it to your device beforehand. The stations on a cruise television are limited ( you can see the full lineup here ), and most of the big channels you get at home aren’t available.

In fact, most of the time the channels are specific to the cruise, like info about port shopping or safety information. 

28. Don’t show up to the port until you are scheduled to board

Carnival offers a method of boarding known as staggered check-in. You select a 30-minute window of when to board. This keeps things running smoothly and avoids having too many passengers show up at once, such as right when the ship opens up to passengers.

If you show up before your boarding window, you could be asked to return later. If you show up after your boarding window, they will still let you board.

29. Every Carnival ship has a coin. See if you can find it

Want to have a treasure hunt on your cruise? It’s tradition for Carnival to place a coin on the ship when under construction as a good-luck charm. It’s a fun pastime to explore the ship and see if you can find it. It’s usually located on an upper deck in a public area where anyone can access it.

30. Buy the drink package early to save money

Carnival offers passengers the option of buying the CHEERS! drink package . For one set price per day, you can have your run of just about any beverage on the ship — alcoholic or otherwise. 

Now, this drink package isn’t for everyone. You definitely want to run the numbers on how much you’ll drink before you buy and if you’ll get your money’s worth ( see our drink package calculator here ). But if you do decide to purchase it, be sure to do so before you sail.

Carnival discounts the package $5 per day — or about 8% off the onboard price — if you buy the package online before you board.

31. You can bring on some drinks, so take advantage

Carnival allows you to bring some drinks on the ship with with you. You can bring a bottle of champagne or wine (standard size), and up to 12 cans or cartons of non-alcoholic drinks per person.

While a bottle of wine or a 12-pack of soda may not seem like much, it definitely makes a difference in your budget. Considering that a glass of wine can cost $8-12 and a soda costs $3 each, it’s worth it to bring what you can to keep costs down.

Plus, if you have a favorite brand, it makes sense to bring it because it might not be available on the ship. (Carnival ships serve Pepsi products.)

32. A $5 outlet adapter is worth its weight in gold

Cruise cabins are notorious for having limited outlet space, despite the fact that people travel with more devices than ever. Typically there is only one outlet per cabin in many older ships (newer ships are getting better at offer more outlets).

Bringing a cheap outlet adapter can be a lifesaver , giving you multiple plugs. Best of all, they are only a few bucks and don’t take up much space.

33. Past passenger? Try pricing without your VIFP number

Carnival’s loyalty program — VIFP — can give you special pricing on cruises. If you’ve sailed before, then you can enter your number during your search for cruises on the Carnival website for possible discounts. 

One thing we suggest is trying your search both with and without your VIFP number entered. We’ve personally found that having the number entered can sometimes actually mean you see a higher price than what’s shown without the number.

34. Book excursions online to save time

If you plan to take a shore excursion, you can book it on Carnival’s site ahead of time . If you do this you’ll get the same price you’ll find on the ship, but you have some advantages.

First, you don’t have to spend your precious vacation time waiting in line on the ship to book. Second, you get to book before everyone on the ship. If there’s limited space on an excursion, this could be the difference between getting the excursion you want or having it be sold out.

35. Bring cash, but ATMs are available on the ship

It’s better to bring all the cash you need, but don’t worry if you get an a jam. Carnival has ATMs on the ship where you can get some extra money . Be warned: The charges are high — $6-7 per transaction that we’ve seen. And that amount is before anything that your bank might charge you to access your money.

36. Look for deals on older Carnival ships

Carnival is always rolling out new ships. Mardi Gras, Celebration and Panorama have all been introduced in recent years. Rightly so, many people are eager to sail these newer ships.

But if you want a deal, look at the older ships in Carnival’s fleet. The vessels are still fantastic to sail, but don’t generate the buzz like a new ship does. Often you can find cruises for hundreds of dollars less, giving you a great vacation for less money.

37. Make sure your flip-flops have tread for walking on the ship

Do you wear a pair of old flip flops where the tread has been worn off? If so, it’s time for an upgrade.

Decks on cruise ships can get slippery. Between rain showers, splashes from the pool, or cleaning by the crew, there are lots of times you’ll find wet decks. If you don’t have sandals with grip, then it’s not just a nuisance — it’s downright dangerous. You don’t want a slip and fall ruining your vacation.

38. Even in the warm Caribbean, bring a jacket

You might not think of it, but the nights in the Caribbean can get cool, even in the summer. This is especially true when the ship is underway, which makes the breeze much stronger. Do yourself a favor and bring a light jacket to wear in the evenings. Even if you plan to stay inside on the ship, the air conditioning can get cool in many places.

39. Insert your keycard to cash out in the casino

If you like playing slot machines or video poker on a Carnival cruise, then be sure to insert your room keycard when you play. Not only is your play tracked with this card, which can lead to perks from free drinks to free cruises, but it’s needed when you cash out.

Instead of printing tickets that you can take from machine to machine or cash out at a redemption kiosk, Carnival puts the funds on your room keycard. If you don’t have it inserted, then you have to wait for an attendant to come pay you in cash by hand.

40. Carnival ships cater to families with kids. Take advantage of included childcare

If your child is over two years old, then they can be dropped off at Camp Ocean  on the ship. Not only does this give mom and dad a chance to vacation without having to watch the kids, it gives the kids some time away from parents with activities that they will enjoy. The kids clubs are broken up by age, and best of all, the service is included in your fare.

41. Babysitting is available for just $7.50 per hour

One of the best deals in cruising is that you can drop your kids off (above two years old) at Camp Ocean for no charge. But outside of normal hours or if you have a kid under two, then you can have babysitting at certain times . 

Here, the staff will keep an eye on the kids while they enjoy fun activities but there is a charge. Still, it’s only $7.50 per hour (plus 18% gratuity), so if you have a small kid and want to head to dinner and a show for a couple of hours, it’s a low price to pay.

42. Navigating the ship can be confusing. Only some floors go straight through

If you want to head from the back of the ship to the front of the ship, you might have to go up or down a floor or two to make your way the length of many Carnival ships. Things like the dining room and theater cut through multiple floors and keep you from being able to get through. Stick with the main promenade deck if you want an easy way to go back and forth.

43. Wait for people to get out of the elevator before you try to enter

Elevators are the heartbeat of the ship. They are used thousands of times daily and are typically busy as people travel around the ship. Since there are usually plenty of people on the elevator, it’s common courtesy to wait and let anyone get off at your floor before you try to get on. Otherwise there’s an easily avoidable traffic jam.

Even better, if you are traveling only a few decks, simply take the stairs. It’s faster.

44. BOLT! is worth the money… once

Carnival’s newest ships like Mardi Gras, Celebration, and Jubilee have made a big deal of having the first roller coaster on a cruise ship. The BOLT! coaster circles the top deck, taking two riders up to 40 miles per hour, with insane views of the ocean.

A ride costs $15 per person. Having done it, we can tell you that it’s a lot of fun. But considering the ride lasts a literal minute, we’d suggest trying it once but not going again and again.

45. Don’t miss the Love & Marriage game show

It’s one of the most popular shows on a Carnival cruise and one we think is a must see. The Love & Marriage game show is a take on The Newlywed Game. There are three couples who are asked some interesting personal questions to try and match their partner’s answers.

It’s definitely Rated R… or maybe more PG-13… so it’s not for kids. But it’s also one of the funniest things you’ll watch on the cruise.

46. Air freshener is a must. Cabins don’t have powered bathroom vents

Let’s get real. With two people in a small space, bathroom smells can be an issue. Cruise cabins don’t have vents in the bathroom. Foul smells, small cabins, and no ventilation are a bad combo. Pack some air freshener with you on your next cruise. Your cabin mate will thank you for it.

47. The cheapest Carnival cruise prices are when school is in session

Are you flexible with when you can sail? Then you can save a lot of money. Prices are lowest when school is in session and families have a tougher time sailing . The difference between the lowest fares and the highest fares can be hundreds — if not thousands — of dollars for the same cruise simply taken at different times of year.

Have more tips or questions about sailing on Carnival? Let us know in the comments below.

More on Cruising Carnival:

• Worth It? 15+ Questions & Answers About the Carnival CHEERS! Package
• Reviewed: Carnival Cruise Wi-Fi Service (Speed, Reliability, Cost, and More)
• Complete Guide to Sailing Carnival Cruise Line (What It’s Like)

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26 Disney cruise tips, tricks, secrets and extra magic to unlock when setting sail with Mickey

Disney Cruise Line might be a comparatively small cruise line with just five ships, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in popularity and enthusiastic fans. It also has some unique approaches to cruising that may surprise you — whether you're a first-time cruiser or an experienced cruiser on a different line.

After sailing on six Disney Cruise Line voyages across four of its ships in the last few years, I've picked up a few hacks and money-saving techniques I'm happy to pass on to you. No matter if this is your first time at sea or your 99th, you can benefit from this list of 26 Disney cruise tips, tricks and secrets.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

You can find discounts on Disney Cruises

Disney cruises are generally more expensive than other family-friendly competitors such as Royal Caribbean , but there are still ways to save money on a Disney cruise . Here are some different discounts you can find for Disney Cruise Line.

When booking a Disney cruise, your best move is to book the cruise as soon as it becomes available. You'll have the best selection of cabins and generally the best prices. Sometimes, you can find discounts closer to the sailing if certain room types aren't selling as hoped.

Sail one-way

A few times a year, Disney ships based in seasonal homeports need to head toward their next cruising region. When that happens, the ships sail one-way (aka repositioning) cruises , starting in one port and ending in a different one. You can often book these one-off sailings for less money than the normal round-trip cruises that start and end in the same spot.

For example, Disney Dream will sail a three-night cruise to move it from San Juan to Ft. Lauderdale in November. You can book a cabin with a balcony for $1,580 for two people, which is a solid price on Disney Dream. The $3,326 price tag for a concierge-level cabin is very good; those cabins usually start at close to $800 to $1,000 higher on many other three-night sailings.

Remember to factor in the cost of two one-way flights when you're calculating the savings bonus of taking a one-way cruise.

Related: Ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Let Disney pick your cabin

If you're not picky about which cabin you get, an easy way to save a substantial amount of cash on your Disney cruise is to let Disney pick your cabin for you. You select a room type (such as an inside room or one with a balcony) and then let Disney assign you to a specific cabin location closer to sailing. For your flexibility, this type of guaranteed fare comes at a discount.

In the example below, you'll see the cheapest inside cabin where you pick a specific room on the ship is $2,072, while the price starts at $1,488 if you let Disney choose which inside room you get. This type of fare comes with additional restrictions, so read the fine print carefully. I've done this multiple times and have always been happy with the room location I've received.

Upgrade your room at the port for less

Depending on the ship's occupancy, it can be cheaper to upgrade your cabin at the port right before you board than in advance. There's no guarantee a better room will be available, but it can't hurt to ask when you are checking in inside the port just before boarding if nicer rooms are available.

If higher room categories have gone unsold, the check-in staff can tell you the price to upgrade to a nicer room; they can reference a spreadsheet that outlines the upgrade rates based on your current cabin and fare. In my experience, you can save up to half the cost compared to upgrading your room in advance.

Pay with points or discounted Disney gift cards

You can pay with discounted Disney gift cards to save a little money. There are many ways to do this, but stacking credit card bonus categories with discounted gift cards that can be available at places like Sam's Club or even Target can knock around 5% off the total price without too much effort.

You can also use some types of credit card points and miles to pay for a Disney cruise. For example, you can use Capital One miles from cards such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , (see rates and fees) to cover all or part of any charge that's considered a travel expense.

The Disney Visa Card also offers some onboard savings perks and you can enjoy 0% APR for six months on your Disney vacation packages from the date of purchase, after that a variable APR of 19.24%-28.24%.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

2 rooms are cheaper than a suite

If your family is considering getting a suite to spread out and have more space, but are finding the prices for Disney Cruise Line suites to be prohibitively high, consider connecting staterooms instead. A family of four can expect to spend about 50% more on connecting cabins instead of all staying in one room, which is likely a lot less than buying up to a suite which can be several times the cost of a regular room.

Get free Mickey ice cream bars (and more) from room service

Unless you're staying in a concierge-level stateroom (more on that soon), room service on a Disney cruise is relatively basic. However, it's available at no extra charge, so use it as much or as little as you like.

I'm a fan of ordering room service for a quick breakfast (or that first hit of coffee) or for a fun anytime treat of Mickey ice cream bars. I often order Uncrustables from room service the night before port days to toss in my bag for the family to eat while ashore. My girls learned how to politely call to order these by the second or third day of the cruise.

It's a common courtesy to add a few dollars for a tip to the slip that you'll sign when the order is delivered.

Order as much dinner as you want

On Disney Cruise Line, you'll be assigned a dinner rotation through the three included restaurants on the ship. Your serving team will rotate with you, which is pretty fun as they get to know you and your preferences.

Since this food is all included, don't be shy. If you can't decide between the shrimp or salmon entree, try both. Order a couple of appetizers or be daring and try a dish you've never tasted before.

When it comes time for dessert, create your own sampler-platter for the table and taste them rather than limiting yourself to one selection.

You aren't locked into your assigned dining plans

If, for some reason, your assigned order of restaurants or tablemates (if you have any) aren't working out, don't be shy about asking guest services to make alterations. They will connect you with the appropriate people within the dining team to make necessary adjustments.

New movie releases are shown in the theaters

While a movie theater may sound like a strange place to spend a few hours at sea, I recommend making time to go see a new Disney movie while on your next Disney Cruise. The ships show first-run movies, so instead of heading to your local theater to see the next Marvel, Pixar or other Disney film released close to your cruise date, save some money and enjoy the movie at sea for no extra charge.

In fact, if you are at sea when a new Disney movie premieres on land, you'll get to see it the same night on the ship, too.

It's cash-free on the ship — except for this

You don't need much cash while on a Disney cruise. Your "Key to the World" room key serves as your form of payment and identification on the ship. I highly recommend bringing a lanyard to keep track of this important card if it's your first Disney voyage. Return cruisers are given a lanyard in their cabin.

However, if you want to add an extra tip to your service team at the end of the cruise beyond the standard amount that's charged to your folio, it's nice to do that with cash. If you are staying in a concierge-level room, you may want to pack some extra cash for the concierge lounge hosts and the evening bartenders, too.

Your kids can (maybe) get into an older club

Disney Cruise Line divides kids into four age groups — the nursery (up to age 3), the primary kids club (3–12), a tween club (11–14) and a teen club (14–17). The clubs, other than the nursery, are complimentary, so the magic age for a Disney cruise begins once your child is at least 3 years old and potty-trained, so they can enjoy time in the kids clubs while you enjoy … whatever you want.

Once your kid is ready to age up to the next club, they can actually do that a little early with your permission. For example, my oldest was able to level up to the tween club at 10 years old and the teen club at 13 years old with a signed slip from me, so use (or hide) that information as it suits you best. I will say that once your kid levels up in those clubs, they probably won't go back much to the previous club.

Take note that the tween and teen clubs allow kids to come and go at will. If you need your child to be monitored, then they will need to stay in the main kids club, which is open through age 12.

Hit the pools early or late to avoid crowds

If you don't want to swim in a crowded pool or wait in a long line for a slide around the AquaDuck or AquaMouse, you'll need to employ some strategy. I recommend heading to the waterslide the second you board the ship if it is warm enough in your port, as that is as empty as it's going to get.

If you miss that window, mornings are also pretty empty, as are late afternoons as everyone starts to get ready for the evening. Avoid mid-day on sea days at all costs unless you like swimming with dozens of your new best friends.

You'll want to decorate your door

The cabin doors on a Disney cruise are almost all metal, so decorative magnets will stick to the doors nicely. Pack themed magnets to decorate your door. Not only is it fun to participate in this shipwide decoration, but the personalized door serves to help kids (or tired adults) find their cabin should they forget the room number.

You can keep things simple or order personalized magnets on a site like Etsy in advance of your sailing. You may see some doors that go all out and even have pouches with goodies in them. Those hanging pouches are known as fish extenders (as they hang off of a fish built into the ship). They often signify that the cabin is participating in a gift exchange with others on the cruise that they arranged beforehand on Facebook.

Your sailing has a Facebook group and it's worth joining

Speaking of Facebook, the odds are excellent that your individual sailing has a Facebook group with several hundred people in it. If you wish to participate in gift exchanges, get to know your shipmates pre-cruise or tap into a hive mind for advice on picking excursions and packing, it's a big asset to belong to a group specific to your sailing.

Go to Facebook and search for your sailing (e.g. Disney Wonder Alaska June 12 - 19). You'll likely find a "private" group that's not officially affiliated with the cruise line. Join the group to be kept in the loop and to drum up excitement for your trip before you set sail.

Soda is free if you know where to look

If you order a can of Coke in the dining room or from room service, it's going to cost you a few dollars, but you can get as much free soda as you want from the fountain. These are usually located on the pool deck and in the buffet area. Bring a refillable bottle so you can easily take your soda with you around the ship.

Check the app for happy hours

Alcohol isn't free on board, but you can find discounted drinks at happy hour. On my most recent Disney cruise, select drinks were 50% off from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the ship's pub. Check your Navigator app during your sailing to look for happy hours on your Disney cruise.

The best merchandise sells out

If you see a cool hat, sweatshirt or shirt you adore, buy it as soon as you spot it. The onboard gift shops are only open while the ship is at sea, and the popular items sell out (and generally don't get restocked while you're on board).

A Disney cruise is not just for families

There's no doubt that families make up a large portion of the Disney Cruise Line passenger base, but a Disney cruise is not just for kids . The ships cater to childless couples and friend groups with special spaces reserved just for grownups.

Each ship has an adults-only nightlife area and/or multiple bars and lounges to visit in the evening. An adults-only sun deck includes a pool and space to sunbathe. Each ship also has one or two adults-only restaurants you can retreat to at dinnertime if you want to ensure a high-end and kid-free meal. (You'll have to pay extra for these meals, however.)

Disney offers legitimately good liquor and tastings

On top of the cocktails and drinks you may expect, Disney ships offer some very high-end liquors on board. I shared a photo of the below beverage cart on Instagram while on a recent cruise and got dozens of messages from people shocked Disney would have Pappy's bourbon. That specific 23-year-old bottle goes for several hundred dollars per drink, and it's on board Disney cruise ships.

If you're looking for something more affordable, sign up for one of the various beverage-tasting classes on offer. Most of the tastings are $40 - $50, and you'll get to sample a few drinks, as well as learn more about wine, tequila, bourbon and other beverages.

You don't need to pay for motion sickness pills

If you find the motion of the ocean to be a bit more than you bargained for, head to guest services, and they will give you — and your kids — motion sickness pills free of charge.

Pro tip: Don't wait until you are feeling terrible to start battling any potential motion sickness . At the first signs of queasiness, seek out a remedy. Green apples and ginger candy are alternatives for travelers who prefer not to take medicine.

The concierge lounge is extra magical

If you want your own personal Fairy Godmother who all but ensures you get the bookings you want, the best meal times, coveted reservations at the adults-only restaurants and cabana access at Castaway Cay, then book yourself into a concierge-level cabin or suite.

You'll get all that, plus you can board the ship first and skip the lines when disembarking. Concierge guests get exclusive access to a lounge with included evening drinks and a private sun deck (with a hot tub on Disney Wish ). You can order meals from the onboard restaurants to your room, and hang out with a Disney character in the lounge one evening of the cruise.

Not to mention, you'll be staying in some of the nicest and largest accommodations on the ship.

Concierge-level rooms do not come cheap, but they're the way to go if you want cream-of-the-crop service on a Disney cruise. I'd venture that the added perks and extra booking window for specialty restaurants and Castaway Cay are most valuable on the shorter Disney cruises of three or four nights.

Related: What it's like on a $10,000 Disney Wish concierge cruise

Find your way by looking at the carpet

It can be disorienting at first to find your way around a cruise ship, but Disney makes it easy to know if you are heading forward or aft when you're in the long cabin hallways. If the carpet design is upside down, you're heading toward the back of the ship, but if it is right side up, you're heading to the front of the ship. In the photo below, the globe is the clue.

Late dinner is better

Disney cruise ships offer two dinner options — early or late seating. Your showtime for the evening entertainment is opposite your dinner; if you have an early dinner, you have the late show and vice versa.

It's logical to assume that an early dinner at 5:45 p.m., as opposed to late dinner at 8:15 p.m., is better if you have little kids. Having done both, I'd say that late dinner is vastly superior in most situations.

First, 5:45 p.m. is too early to have made the most of your day and be ready for dinner. With all there is to eat on the cruise, you might not even be hungry yet. Beyond that, if you aren't heading into the dark theater to see the show until 8:15 p.m., it can be hard for little ones to sit still or stay awake.

However, if you see the show first and then eat dinner, the servers are great about expressing your meal with little kids. It's better to do a quick dinner and then head to bed (or back to the kids club!) than an early dinner and miss the evening shows because your kid no longer has the ability to sit still.

The $45 adult restaurant is worth it

If you enjoy fine dining, book a fancy dinner at one of the adults-only restaurants. Depending on which ship you are on, there will be one or two restaurants that are reserved for adults — Palo and perhaps also Remy or Enchante .

Remy and Enchante are super-fancy and pricy, but Palo is approachable-fancy and costs an additional $45 per person for the set menu. It's 100% worth the money if you can get a booking.

You'll leave any cartoony trace of Disney behind as you leisurely indulge on beef tenderloin, sea scallops, grilled lobster with pasta, calamari and chocolate souffle.

The best character meetings aren't the posted ones

You'll find many character meet-and-greets on the itinerary for each day where it's known that Mickey, Donald or Minnie will be at a specific place at a specific time for a brief hello and a photo. Those meetups are great, but they are not the best character interactions you'll find on Disney Cruise Line.

The best time you'll have with characters will be when you least expect to see them. You might spot Goofy walking around in his pajamas, Donald waddling out on the deck or Minnie strolling the halls in her finest dress.

These encounters can't be planned or predicted, but without the lines and forced nature of a quick photo, the more free-form interaction with the characters is better than any planned photo sessions you'll find on land or sea.

All the characters come out to say goodbye on the last night

On the last night of each cruise, all of the classic characters come out to the atrium for a short time (15 - 20 minutes) so you can snap a quick photo with anyone you missed before they do their final farewell presentation. Check your app for this goodbye show, which usually occurs around 10 or 10:30 p.m.

Pro tip: If you have a specific character you want to photograph, ask a cast member setting up for the event where that character usually stands during photo time. That way, you can position yourself in the right area to snap a photo because the event can turn chaotic in a hurry.

Skip the debarkation line by carrying your own bags

Getting off the ship at the same time as thousands of other guests can be a buzzkill, so don't do that. If you can manage your own bags, don't put them out the night before and take them off the ship yourself the final morning.

That leaves you free to disembark as early as possible before the regular disembarkation begins, which might be around 7:30 a.m. or so, depending on the port, weather and other factors. You can avoid the crowds because you don't have to wait for your luggage to be assembled along with everyone else.

You can bring your own water and wine

If you want to have bottled water at the ready, bring a case of it onboard. It will need to be sealed in its original packaging and you have to carry it on (instead of having it in checked luggage), but it can be worth it if you want to save money for the truly yummy drinks.

If you enjoy wine or beer out on your veranda, you can save a little cash by bringing your own alcohol onboard , with limits. Guests 21 years and older may bring a maximum of two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne (no larger than 750 ml) or a six-pack of beer (no larger than 12 ounces) on board at the beginning of the voyage and at each port of call. Again, these beverages need to be carried on and not stashed in checked bags.

You can enjoy the spa without a treatment

If you love the idea of spa-like quiet and relaxation without paying around $200+ per treatment, look into the Rainforest Room in the Senses Spa, which costs much less than that per day. Depending on demand, you can book a one-day pass or get a pass that lasts the duration of your cruise. Inquire in the spa as to availability and exact pricing, but it's certainly going to be less than a spa treatment.

Each of the Disney ships has its own version of this room. On Disney Wish, the space has not only the heated loungers that are a common fixture in each of these thermal areas, but also an indoor and outdoor lounge component, a steam room, a chilled ice room and a relaxing water feature for dangling your feet.

Bottom line

You can't go wrong in booking a Disney cruise as there is already so much included and available at your fingertips. But with a little knowledge, you can skip some of the common first-timer mistakes and board like a pro, starting with your first cruise.

Related reading:

• What it's like inside the Disney Wish Star Wars-themed bar
• Everything you need to know about Disney Wish
• The best credit cards for Disney
• Best destinations you can sail to on a Disney cruise
• Everything you need to know about Disney's loyalty program
• The 2 types of Disney Cruise Line ships, explained

11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips All Cruisers Need to Know

C ruises are great vacations, but losing your valuables to thieves can spoil your fun. You can lose your luggage, valuables, documents, or devices to thieves on the ship, port, or shore. To avoid this, you need some anti-theft cruise tips. Below, I will show you how to keep your belongings safe and prevent theft on a cruise.

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Check out: Cruise without Seasickness: Genius Tricks You Need to Know

How to Keep Belongings Safe on a Cruise Vacation

1. rfid blocking .

These days, identity thieves can easily steal your credit card information by simply getting close to you and scanning it! They use devices that can read the radio frequency identification (RFID) chips embedded in your cards and access your personal and financial data. 

To be safe, you should keep your credit card in a RFID blocking wallet or bag such as this crossbody bag with RFID block . This bag has a special lining that blocks the signals from the scanners and protects your cards from unauthorized access. 

I like these RFID wallet for men and RFID wallet for women .

I even keep my passport in this RFID blocking passport holder ! This holder also has a RFID blocking feature that prevents identity theft and keeps your travel documents secure. By using these products, you can enjoy your cruise vacation without worrying about your privacy and security.

2. Slash-Proof Bags

If you are on a European cruise, you need to be wary of pickpockets. They are very skilled and often work in teams to distract you and snatch your valuables. 

When you’re out and about sight seeing, it’s very common for pickpocketers to slash your bags in to steal your wallet. They use sharp knives or scissors to cut through the fabric of your bag and grab your money, cards, or passport. 

You need a good cross body, anti-slash bag that can resist such attacks. I like this anti-theft cross body bag because the strap and bag are slash-resistant and there is also RFID blocking so your card information is safe from identity thieves.

Here is an anti-theft slash-proof bag for men with RFID blocking. By using these bags, you can protect your belongings and enjoy your European cruise without any worries.

3. Don’t Bring Expensive Jewelry

I suggest leaving your expensive jewelry at home. This will give you peace of mind and one less thing to worry about while you are on your cruise vacation. You don’t want to risk losing or damaging your precious jewelry. 

Plus, you will avoid attracting unwanted attention from potential thieves who might target you as a tourist. Instead, you can bring some inexpensive accessories that match your outfits. This way, you can still look stylish and have fun without worrying about your belongings.

Check out: How Cruise Lines Trick You Into Spending More Money: 12 Sneaky Ways

4. Use Your Cabin Safe

One of the best ways to keep your belongings safe and prevent theft on a cruise is to keep your passport, cash, credit cards and other valuables in your cabin safe. There is no need to be carrying with you when you are out and about on the ship. 

Your cruise line makes it easy for you to spend money since everything is cashless. You technically don’t need anything except for your keycard when you are on board. Of course, you can keep some small bills with you, it will come in handy for tipping. I like to keep my keycard in a lanyard so it’s easily accessible (just don’t wear the lanyard when you are ashore sightseeing).

5. Don’t Wear Your Lanyard on Shore 

One of the common mistakes that cruise passengers make is to wear their cruise lanyard ashore. It is very convenient and useful when you are on the ship, but it can also make you stand out as a tourist when you are off the ship. 

When you are out ashore sightseeing, shopping or at the beach, don’t wear your cruise lanyard. You will immediately look like a tourist and become a target for thieves and pickpocketers. 

I suggest keeping a low profile when you are on shore. You can store your keycard and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag. This way, you can avoid drawing attention to yourself and enjoy your shore excursion without any trouble. 

6. Don’t Check in Your Valuables

One of the most important tips to keep your belongings safe and prevent theft on a cruise is to always keep your passport, cash and other valuables in your carry-on bag. You should never keep them in your check-in luggage that you hand over to the cruise staff. 

There are several reasons for this. First of all, you will need your passport and credit cards with you when you check in at the cruise port. You will have to show them to the security and the cruise personnel to verify your identity and boarding information. 

Also, there is a risk of your check-in luggage getting lost, delayed, or damaged. If your passport and valuables are in your check-in luggage, you may lose them forever or have a hard time retrieving them. This can ruin your cruise vacation.

Therefore, it’s safest if your passport and valuables are with you at all times in your carry-on bag. You can also use a RFID blocking wallet to protect your cards from identity theft. By following this tip, you can keep your belongings safe and prevent theft on a cruise.

Check out: 11 Most Annoying People to Avoid on a Cruise

7. Photocopies of Your Passport

Always make copies of your passport, IDs and credit cards. Keeping photocopies will ensure you have all the information with you in case you need to get a replacement passport or credit card. You can show the copies to the authorities and prove your identity and citizenship. You can also contact your bank and report the loss or theft of your cards.

Keep these photocopies with you (not your checked-in luggage). You should never leave them lying around in your cabin or suitcase, as they can be easily accessed by others. Keep it in your cabin safe.

Or even better, if you can just scan them or take pictures of them and keep them in your phone so there are no paper copies to lose. This way, you can store your copies digitally and access them anytime you need. You can also encrypt them or password-protect them to prevent unauthorized access. By following this tip, you can keep your belongings safe and prevent theft on a cruise.

Check out: 18 Worst Things that Can Ruin Your Cruise

8. Use a Waterproof Phone Case

If you are going on a cruise where you will be spending a lot of time at the pool or the beach, you should get a waterproof phone case .It’s pretty common for cellphones to be stolen so it’s best to keep it with you at all times. You should never leave your phone unattended on a chair, table, or towel. You should always keep it close to your body or in a secure pocket. 

There are also waterproof bags that are bigger that can hold your phone and wallet. These will come in handy when you are at a public beach. You can wear these bags around your neck, waist, or shoulder.

9. Don’t Bring Designer Bags

It’s best not to bring designer bags to the cruise because it is an easy target for thieves. When you’re out sightseeing, your designer bag will make you a target for pickpockets who might try to snatch it from you or cut it open to get your valuables. Also, you will have to carry your designer bag around with you since I don’t recommend you leaving it in your cabin. 

The cabin steward often leaves the door open when they clean the room, which can expose your bag to anyone passing by. You just never know who might enter your stateroom and take your bag when the doors are often left wide open. Therefore, it’s best to leave your designer bags at home.

Check out: 10 Ways to Score Free Champagne at a Cruise (How to Get Free Drinks!)

10. Always Lock Your Luggage

When you leave your stateroom, always make sure your luggage is locked and the cabin safe is locked. I always make sure I have a TSA approved lock for all luggage including my small carry-on roller bag. I also always make sure my luggage are locked when I check it in during embarkation and debarkation. 

11. Beach Bag with Zipper

If you bring your kindle, iPad, phone and other devices to the pool, I suggest you keep them in a zippered beach bag. Don’t just leave them lying around on the lounge chair. Since it’s easy for anyone walking by to just swipe an iPad or phone off your lounge chair.

When you leave the lounge chair, take your beach bag with you. If you’re at the pool, keep an eye on it but also secure your beach bag to your lounge chair with a towel clip and then throw a towel over it! It will just make it harder for anyone to steal anything from you!  I like this beach bag because it is waterproof and has zipper closure.

Looking to save money on your cruise? 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise

Check out these cruise packing lists with free printables

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