travel gifts for cruising

70+ Best Gifts for Cruisers 2024 (that are unique & practical)

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Perfect Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers for Every Holiday

If you’re looking for unique gift ideas for the cruiser in your life, this list of more than 70 cruise items includes both fun and practical ideas. This updated cruise travel gift guide will help you find the perfect gift for your cruise loving friends and family.

While nothing beats being on an actual cruise, getting cruise essentials that they can use on their next cruise will be so appreciated!

This cruise gift list includes unique travel gifts that you’ll get excited over and be proud to give! Plus, they’re all available on Amazon so you can conveniently shop online.

Looking for more cruise gift inspiration?

Check out our other related posts:

• 50  Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise
• 60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know
• Cruise Gift Exchange Ideas: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers
• 17 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
• 25 Cruise Gift Bag Ideas that Are Fun to Make, Give and Receive
• 25 Affordable and Cute Cruise Outfits for Ladies
• 25 Best Cruise Dresses: Amazon Ladies Resort Wear

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

70 Best Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Travelers 2024

In this cruise gift guide you’ll find popular cruise accessories , travel related items, fun cruise t-shirts , masks and other novelty items. If you have additional suggestions of great gifts for cruisers, please leave me a comment at the bottom of this post.

Amazon Prime

Have you heard of Amazon Prime and wondered about the benefits?

*Free shipping benefits

As an Amazon Prime member, you have access to FREE faster shipping. Often, it’s same day and other times it’s 2 day shipping.

We’ve found the fast shipping so practical even for everyday items, especially as we’ve often tried to avoid going out for just a couple of things.

*Amazon Prime Video Steaming

We’ve now exhausted Netflix, and have found awesome shows and movies on Prime! 

If you aren’t a member yet, you can get an Amazon Prime free 30 day trial here , and still take advantage of the promos.

*Tip – If you don’t want to keep it, as there is a yearly fee, take note of the date you signed up and make sure to cancel before 30 days. 

Back to the cruise travel item list, that are favorites any time of year, but especially as we get closer to the holiday season.

Free 30 day Trial Amazon Prime (amazon link)

Best Cruise Accessories for 2024

Some of the most practical and useful gifts are cruise accessories and helpful packing items. These popular essentials are well loved by cruise travelers everywhere!

However, for the cruise traveler who has everything, I’ve included some new and unique travel gift ideas as well!

1. Hanging Cabin Organizer

Cruisers swear by the hanging organizer for toiletries and other essentials on a cruise. 

Recommended: Hanging cabin organizer (see Amazon link for price & details)

2. Magnetic Cabin Hooks

I personally recommend these magnetic cabin hooks . When we used them in our cabin on our last cruise, they freed up space in the closet (and on chairs). The small hooks are “heavy duty” so they can hold the weight of a backpack or sweatshirt, but also are a good place to store sunhats and hang bathing suits to dry.

Tip: Go with magnet hooks that are 75 lbs or more to have best results. Strong hooks can stick together, but sliding them apart (not pulling) will help.

Recommended: 6 pack Magnetic Hooks (strongest -see reviews on Amazon here))

3. Level 8 Carry On Luggage

Carry on luggage makes a great gift for cruise travelers. This lightweight carry-on size luggage has quiet & smooth wheels, making it easy to use for flights and cruises.

Recommended: Level 8 20″ Carry-on luggage (check reviews & price on Amazon here)

4. Air Tags

If you don’t have Air Tags yet, this could be a great gift for yourself! Place an air tag in each piece of luggage for peace of mind when traveling.

Consider using these air tag holders as well – I attach them to the zipper of the inside pockets of my suitcases.

Recommended: Air tag set of 4

4. Cute Towel Clips

These fun towel clips are great to keep towels put on a breezy sea day or at the beach. They make a great little cruise gift or stocking stuffer for the holidays.

Recommended: Towel clips – variety available (flamingos, margaritas, flip-flops)

5. Towel Bands

Cruisers who prefer to pack lighter for their vacation favor these lightweight towel bands . In fact, many people now say these towel bands are actually better than towel clips.

Recommended: Towel bands (check reviews & color options on Amazon)

6. Towel Bands with Clips

These lightweight towel bands with chair clips are easy to pack for your cruise and are great to use both on the ship and on beach shore excursions !

Recommended: Towel bands with clips (newer product. Check price & 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

7. Portable Lock-box Safe

Cruisers often wonder where they can put valuables and identification when on excursions or hanging out on the beach. This portable lock box safe is perfect to keep a cell phone, money and other personal items secure . 

Recommended: Portable lock box safe (see colors & reviews on Amazon)

Related: How to Keep Your Belongings Safe on a Cruise Vacation

8. Non-surge Protected Power Bar (cruise approved)

If you’re looking for a gift for someone going on a cruise, a non-surge protected power bar will be so useful! Cruise ship cabins are notorious for their lack of outlets, and regular power bars are not allowed to brought on board. 

Recommended: Cruise power bar – non surge protected (5* reviews – verify current price on Amazon here)

9. Power Strip Cube with USB (non-surge)

A newer cruise accessory that we are loving is this 6 outlet non-surge protected power strip cube with a USB-A and USB-C.

This has been one of the most popular cruise essentials this year!

Recommended: Power strip cube non-surge (with USB-A & C)

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

This hanging toiletry bag and organizer makes it so easy to unpack the necessities on a cruise! Cruise ship bathrooms are small, and this is a must-have item to bring on a cruise. Available in medium and large.

Recommended: Hanging toiletry bag (check price, size, color options & over 30,000 5* Amazon reviews)

11. Toiletry and Travel Organizer Bags

This set of clear toiletry organizer bags are trendy, stylish and functional. The handle straps make these bags easy to travel with, as well as to use in hotels, cruise staterooms and at home.

Recommended: Clear toiletry & cosmetic travel organizer pouches (check price & 2000+ Amazon reviews here)

12. Cruise Card Holder

I’ve recently given this new cruise essential a try, and I am hooked! As an alternative to a cruise lanyard, this cruise card holder sticks right onto your phone case (so your key card is always in reach).

This handy item is a great gift for the cruiser who has it all!

Recommended: Cruise card holder phone pouch on lanyard

13. Poo-Pourri Bathroom Spray

Poo-Pourri is well loved by cruisers and not talked about that often. However, it’s definitely one of the most popular cruise items being ordered on Amazon !

14. Cabin Alarm Clock

If you like to know the time during the night or don’t want to rely on your cell phone, consider a simple travel battery operated clock . A lot of cruisers swear this is one of their favorite cruise accessories.

15. Cabin Nightlight

This portable nightlight is so practical and makes a great gift for cruisers. This is especially handy for i nside cabins , which will be pitch black when the lights are off.

Recommended:  Battery operated nighlight

16. Small Travel Fan

Cruise cabins can get stuffy. This small fan is battery operated, but rechargeable, and gets great reviews on Amazon.

17. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are fabulous for cruises. This set of packing cubes make a great gift for every member of the family! Consider getting at least 2 sets with different sizes, and color code to keep better organized.

Recommended: 5 star rated Packing Cubes

Read more:  Tips to Use Packing Cubes for Cruise Vacations

15. Cruise Crew Thank-you Cards

Recommended: Cruise staff thank you cards 

16. Cruise Gift Cards 

This cruise gift card is perfect to surprise your loved one with the gift of a cruise!! It says “Oh ship” on the front and “You’re going on a cruise!” on the inside.

Recommended: Cruise gift card (see details/what’s included here)

17. Cruise Lanyards

Cruise hands free with a cruise lanyard to hold your cruise card. Great for excursion days and on the cruise ship!

Recommended: Cruise lanyards

18. Travel Backpack Carry-On

This backpack is a popular Amazon travel item. Available in several colors, this travel backpack can be used as a personal bag when flying.

Recommended: Travel backpack (large size fits packing cubes, laptop & has a USB)

19. Seabands

Seabands are very practical to prevent motion sickness during cruises and boat excursions. These are great stocking stuffers or even as part of a cruise themed gift bag or basket.

Recommended: Seabands (see both adult and children’s sizes on Amazon)

20. Ginger Candies (for seasickness prevention)

Tummydrops ginger candies are a natural remedy for motion sickness. A bag would make a great stocking suffer or an item for cruise gift exchange.

Recommended: Ginger candies (natural & organic)

21. Snorkel Mask Gear

Cruise lovers are often beach and ocean lovers . If you’re looking for a great gift this year, consider a good quality snorkel set . It’s perfect for beach days or cruise excursions .

21. Folding Travel Mirror LED

A best seller, this folding travel mirror makes a great gift for women who travel and cruise.

Recommended: Folding LED travel mirror (see price & almost 5000 reviews on Amazon here)

22. Sunhat Clip

This magnetic hat clip was one of my favorite new finds for my Caribbean cruises this year.

Recommended: Magnetic hat clip for travel (check price & reviews here)

23. Portable Stainless Steel Straws

In an attempt to use less plastic, many cruise lines have eliminated plastic straws on board. Stainless steel drinking straws make a fun and useful holiday gift for cruisers. Plus, these are portable and cleaning brushes.

Recommended:   Portable Reusable straws (set of 4)

24. Cruise Luggage Tags

These plastic cruise luggage tags are reusable and save time on each and every cruise. They’re available for every cruise line (in wide or long sizes).

Cruise Luggage Tag Holders by Cruise Line:

These luggage tags are secure and are highly rated.

• Royal Caribbean
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America
• MSC Cruises

25. Waterproof Phone Cases on Lanyard

These waterproof phone cases are amazing to keep your phone and other items dry while at the beach or on excursions. You can even take photos under the water when snorkeling.

Recommended: Universal waterproof phone cases (check models for phone compatibility)

26. Nautical Carry-on Bag

This nautical travel tote bag is great to use as a carry on bag for cruises and flights. Roomy, sturdy and stylish, this carry on bag is an Amazon best seller!

Recommended: Nautical carry-on bag (different style options available)

27. Printable Cruise Planner

The Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner is a printable cruise travel planner that makes a great gift! The printable cruise planner includes several different cruise packing lists, checklists, planning forms for hotels, shore excursions and more!

A great idea is to print the pages out as needed and create a cruise travel binder as a holiday gift this year. Tip – print out a few extra shore excursion planning forms for multiple ports of call.

Recommended: Ultimate Cruise Planner (printable planner – see details here $10 off)

28. Swimsuit Cover Up

This gorgeous swimsuit cover up is available in while, black and other flattering colors. So pretty!

Recommended: Swimsuit cover up (see photos & reviews on Amazon here)

29. Cruise Binoculars

Recommended: Quality binoculars for the cruise traveler (see 10,000+ amazon reviews)

30. Compression Packing Cubes

If you’re packing carry-on only, compression cubes can be a life saver! These are an awesome deal & come in a few colors!

Recommended: Compression packing cubes (check price & over 7000 4.5* Amazon reviews)

31. Jewelry Organizer Travel Bag

This foldable jewelry travel bag is perfect to organize your jewelry for a cruise.

Recommended: Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer (see details and read almost 9000 4.5*reviews here)

32. Travel Shoe Bags

This set of 4 travel shoe bags are great for the organized cruiser. They fit women’s and men’s shoes and are made of waterproof nylon material.

Recommended: Travel shoe bags (check price & see over 9000 great Amazon reviews)

33. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Reef safe sunscreen is required in several cruise ports. It can make a great gift on it’s own, or when included in a cruise gift basket.

Recommended: Reef safe sunscreen (spf 50)

34. Aloe Vera Gel

This quality organic vera gel is a best-seller for cruise travelers! It absorbs quickly without a sticky residue, and a must-have on anyone’s Caribbean cruise packing list.

Recommended: Seven Minerals Aloe Vera gel (verify price on Amazon here)

35. Travel Luggage Scale

The ultimate practical gift for any traveler, this electronic hanging travel luggage scale will be well used for years. It makes a great stocking stuffer too!

Recommended: Travel Luggage Scale (battery included)

36. Neck Wallet

A neck wallet is an essential on a Mediterranean cruise packing list and a great gift for cruisers planning that bucket list vacation!

Recommended: Neck wallet

37. Money Belt Passport Holder

A money belt/passport holder is a great cruise travel gift for a man or woman.

Recommended: Money belt & passport holder RFID protected (check price & 5000+ Amazon reviews)

Cruisers love their Kindle! For anyone thinking about packing lighter, the Kindle Paperweight Signature Edition is a well loved space-saver and makes an amazing gift for any cruise traveler.

Recommended: Kindle Paperweight Signature Edition(check price & check 20,000+ Amazon reviews here)

40. Water Shoes

Going on a Caribbean or Bahamas Cruise? Water shoes are a great gift for everyone in the family! There are different colors, patterns and sizes.

Recommended: Water shoes (see over 80,000 Amazon reviews)

41. Microfiber Beach Towel

For cruisers who prefer to bring a lighter towel to the beach and excursions, a large microfiber towel is perfect. It also keeps sand away and dries quickly, which is why this towel is becoming a cruise favorite for 2023.

Recommended: Large Microfiber Towel (quick dry)

42. Family Passport & Document Holder

This RFID passport wallet holder is one of my favorite new items I’m packing for my cruise. It has space for several passports and zippered pockets for documents other items.

Recommended: Family Passport & Document Holder (verify price & see details on Amazon)

43. Portable Charger with Cables

This portable charger with built in cables makes a great gift for travelers! I’ve recently purchased this power bank and its very convenient to use.

Recommended: Portable charger with built in cables

44. Waterproof Dry Bag

This waterproof dry bag is perfect for active cruisers. This best-selling Amazon items comes in a several sizes and colors.

Recommended:   Floating waterproof dry bag (verify price on Amazon)

45. Large Tote Beach Bag

This crochet tote beach bag is both trendy and aesthetic. Ladies who appreciate cruise fashion will love this cute knit bag.

Recommended: Knit tote beach bag

46. Travel Bottles and Containers

A set of leak proof travel bottles and accessories is a must-have travel essential. This set includes everything a cruise traveler needs.

Recommended: Travel containers set (check price & over 15,000 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

47. Personal Mini Fan

This portable personal mini-fan is sure to be a favorite gift item this year!

Recommended: Portable personal mini fan (highly rated)

Related: 37 Long Flight Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-on

Cruise Cabin Decorations & Fun Cruise Items

Simple cabin door decorations are used by many cruisers to help their stateroom door stand out among the long cruise ship hall. Do verify that the cruise line allows decorations on cabin doors.

48. Cruise Porthole Sticker Decal

is easy to apply and peels off, and can be great for any hard core cruiser to use both on the ship and off. Hmmm…home office or guest room maybe?

Recommended: Cruise ship porthole sticker/decal

49. Cruise Cabin Door Decoration Set

This set of cruise cabin decorations is very popular and gets great reviews from cruisers.

Recommended: Nautical cruise cabin decorations

50. Drink Package Magnet Decoration (personalized)

Cruise cabin doors are usually metal, so magnet decorations are perfect! Great for drink package fans!!

Recommended: Drink package magnet decoration (customizable)

51. Disney Cruise Line Fish Extender

If you’re heading on a Disney Cruise, best come prepared with a Disney Fish Extender for your cruise cabin door. The 3 pockets will fit all Disney Fish Extender gifts for kids & adults throughout the fish exchange.

Recommended: Disney Fish Extender Door Decoration (see reviews & details – Amazon)

Read more:  Cruise Cabin Door Decorations: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers

52. Cruise Ducks

Cruise Ducks are a trend that keeps on going! This done for you cruising ducks set on Amazon includes everything you need to hide ducks on your next cruise.

Recommended: Cruise ducks set (180 pieces)

Cruise Novelty Items – cruise t-shirts, coffee mugs, masks and more

Perfect gifts for avid cruisers who want to continue the cruise lifestyle both on and off a cruise ship!

53. Cruise lover’s everyday coffee mug

If you love cruising, you know how accurate this is! It’s a perfect mug to help count down the days until the next cruise.

54. Sip and Cruise Mug

Love this Sip & Cruise Mug !

Recommended:  Cruise coffee mug

55. Cruise “drink package” novelty t-shirts

There are a wide variety of funny cruise t-shirts that can be found.

Tip: Check on Amazon for your favorite styles.

Related: 15 Matching Cruise Shirts for Families, Couples & Groups

56. Cruise Caps

Matching cruise caps are the cutest thing! I can imagine how fun they would be to have on board.

57. Sailor Hats

Sailor hats can be found in different sizes, from adult to child size. Cruise addicts across the seven seas will swoon!

Cruise Themed Gifts and Jewelry

58. cruise-ship tie clip.

Recommended: Cruise ship tie clip

59. Men’s Anchor Bracelet

Perfect for the man in your life that enjoys sailing, cruising or simply enjoys the sea. This handsome rope knot bracelet is adjustable to fit to any man’s wrist size. I love that the anchor is quality stainless steel, which won’t rust or tarnish.

Practical Tech Cruise Gifts

If the cruise lover in your life is into nature, photography or tech, these tech travel gadgets will be appreciated on future cruise vacations.

60. In Flight Airplane Phone Holder

This in flight phone holder makes a great gift or stocking stuffer for anyone who travels!

Recommended: Airplane phone holder (check price & amazon reviews here)

61. Selfie Stick and Tripod (with Bluetooth wireless remote)

Before my family went on our last cruise, I bought this selfie stick tripod and I love it! The fact is, it’s just easier to take better photos and videos with the long reaching arm, even if you don’t take selfies. It has a bluetooth remote (you don’t need wifi).

Recommended:  Selfie Stick and Tripod with Bluetooth wireless remote (verify price on Amazon here)

62. Portable Phone Charger

While a power bar is important to have in your cruise cabin, a portable charger or power bank is so practical when traveling to and from the ship, and on excursions. We used this brand on our last cruise to charge two phones at a time! It was awesome and long lasting!

I’ve updated this link to the latest model, to be compatible with most new phones, but please check for your own.

63. Princess Medallion Holder

Princess Medallion holder for watch straps is an awesome new item available on Amazon for Princess cruisers.

Recommended: Princess medallion watch holder

Cruise Items for the Cruise Lover’s home

64. fun cruise sign.

“What happens on the ship… stays on the ship.” (sign) . What a fun reminder of a great cruise vacation!

Recommended:  Fun cruise sign

65. Create Cute Cruise Towel Animals at Home

This fun cruise novelty item will actually teach you how to create 8 different towel animals, just like on the cruise ships.

Recommended: How to Make a Towel Monkey by Carol Mulanax

66. Cruise Shower Curtain

Bring a little cruise home, the selection of cruise and beach theme shower curtains is amazing on this site! Do remember to measure which length you need. I love the variety and it’s so cute for a guest bathroom!

Recommendation: Cruise theme shower curtain

Cruise Books

Books about cruising are great gifts for anyone planning a cruise, or who enjoys reading both fiction and non fiction cruise books at home or at sea.

67. Cruise Confidential

This popular cruise book is a bit of a behind the scenes look at cruise life (and all that really happens), as told by a former crew member.

68. Joy of Cruising by Paul C. Thornton

Recommended: The Joy of Cruising (see kindle and paperback versions)

Sign up for an Amazon Kindle Membership to have access to thousands of audio books and ebooks.

I love the idea, especially if you love to read on a cruise, but are trying to pack light and avoid bring lots of heavy books. You can find more information here: Amazon Kindle Membership

69. Cruising Interrupted: the Follow Up to Joy of Cruising

I’m proud to be among some of the great interviews in the book, Cruising Interrupted . What a time for the cruise industry! Author Paul C. Thornton did a great job with this interesting book any cruise lover will be happy to receive!

Recommended: Cruising Interrupted

70. Mediterranean Cruise Ports Travel Guide

One of my favorite travel resources is Rick Steves. If you are cruising to the Mediterranean this guide is geared specifically for cruisers who only have 8-10 hours in each cruise port and want to make the most of it.

Recommended:   Rick Steves Mediterranean Cruise Ports

71. Fodor’s Alaska Guide

Cruising to Alaska? A guide book with information all in one place can be so handy! If cruising to another destination, check on other Fodor’s Travel Guides.

Recommended:  The Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises (Fodor’s)

Read more:   25 Best Selling Cruise Books – Cruise Travel Guides, Fiction & More!

Cruise Theme Christmas Items & Gifts

72. christmas cruiseship ornament.

This old world cruise ship Christmas tree ornament is so nostalgic! It’s glass blown and just beautiful.

Recommended: Old World Christmas Cruise Ship Ornament

73. Cruise Ship Ornament

This Kurt Adler cruise ship ornament makes a great keepsake for cruisers!

Recommended: Cruise ship ornament

Bonus Cruise Gift Idea

Consider creating a cruise gift bag or basket out of some of the items on this list! It will be useful and anyone going on a cruise will love it!

YouTube Video 20 Best Holiday Gifts for Cruise Lovers

In this YouTube video, you’ll see some of the most popular cruise essentials as well as some new, unique travel items for cruisers.

Recap: 70+ Best Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

We’ve gone through 65 unique cruise items that make great gifts for frequent cruisers, as well as new cruisers.

From practical cruise accessories items, cruise travel gadgets to fun cruise novelty products – these items are awesome for anyone who loves to cruise. You may even want to share this cruise gift guide with others who are shopping for you (hint hint).

Sign up for Amazon Prime 

If you don’t already have it, it’s a good idea to sign up for Amazon Prime for the benefits. Amazon Prime gives you access to free 1, 2 or even same day delivery, streaming movies and shows, and unlimited storage of photos.

Here a link to sign up for an Amazon Prime Free 30 Day Trial . 

Other Amazon services you may like:

• Audible Plus Free Trial all you can listen membership with access to thousands of books, podcasts & more
• Amazon Fresh a free 2-hour delivery on tons of products – including groceries, everyday essentials & more
• Kindle Unlimited Membership Plans (first month free)   unlimited reading of millions of ebooks, thousands of audiobooks, on any device
• Personal Shopper by Primer Try Before You Buy styling service & personal recommendations

More Gift Guides & Lists:

• 37 Long Flight Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-on
• Best Travel Gadgets & Tech items to Bring on a Cruise
• 25 Best Gifts for Women Who love to Travel
• Plus Size Cruise Wear: Beautiful Cruise Outfits
• 25 Affordable Cruise Outfits for Ladies
• 17 Cruise Stateroom Essentials Every Cruiser Needs

What items have you used or bought as a gift that you can recommend? Is there something you really love? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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Best Travel Gifts for Cruisers

Here’s my curated list of the best travel gift ideas for cruisers, whether first time cruisers or those with dozens of cruises under their belts. 

Remember to include your friends and family who’ve never cruised but are considering it. Some of these gifts would be appreciated by your land-lubber friends, too!

If these little gifts seem like tchotchkes or super silly, they can be really helpful on a cruise, whether used in your stateroom or ashore.

Best Travel Gifts for Cruisers, Newbies and Experienced!

This post may contain affiliate links that won’t change your price but will share some commission. as an amazon associate i earn from qualifying purchases..

Did you know that power strips with surge protectors are NOT allowed on ships? I used to bring a typical power strip/surge protector on cruises for a few years. 

I would always unplug it when I left the stateroom. But unplugging my power strip/surge protector wasn’t good enough for fire safety. Your stateroom attendant has the green light to “confiscate” those until the end of the cruise.

This power strip is simply a multi-outlet power source WITH USB. Not all older ships have USB ports built into the lamps or nightstands.

Cruise Power Strip No Surge Protector with USB Outlets

My Favorite Hanging Organizer

Foldable Clear Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

The smallest zipper pockets get filled with earrings and pendants and one for just dental floss. I can fit my toothbrush and toothpaste in one of the wider zipped pockets and eye makeup in another wide pocket.

This is a great gift for first time cruisers who might not know exactly the best way to pack for a cruise .

There are times when I’m in transit, whether on a ship or hopping on and off trains that this is perfect and holds everything I need, even for just one night.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 11th Generation

Yes, I actually just bought this for myself and it arrived yesterday. It was my best gift for a cruiser…me! I wasn’t sure if I really needed it…I’m not the most avid reader. But that’s partly because I don’t like to pack actual paper or hardcover books for travel. 

And though I hate to admit it, small print is getting more difficult and annoying. Plus, there’s not always the best reading light. (Sounds like a litany of literary excuses, right?)

With this small e-reader, you can adjust the font size, line spacing and warmth or cool screen lighting. 

It took me all of five minutes to sync the new Kindle Paperwhite 11th Generation to my Kindle app on my iPhone and poof! All my books and book samples were on my new Kindle. 

Though I always travel with my iPad and iPhone, this new Kindle edition is waterproof and super light. I can sit on my balcony or at the pool and not worry about it getting splashed on or caught in a light rain or mist so common on an Alaska cruise .

READ MORE :  What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Packing Cubes – Don’t Leave Home Without Them!

These are almost crucial to successful packing and living aboard a ship. First of all, you can see the contents through the mesh top. Second, they easily fit into the few drawers in your stateroom closet so you don’t have to unpack the contents. 

The lighter colors are convenient (there’s about five or six colors to choose) because they’re easy to find inside the drawers or closet shelves.

And I’ll confess, I bought two sets of these packing cubes; one in black and the other in red. I roll or fold everything into these and pack into my suitcase like playing Tetris til everything is in its place.

Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes  

Poo-Pourri – One Spray Goes a Long Way

And yes, it works. You simply spray a small “protective” layer of oil on the surface of the toilet bowl water to repress any, shall we say, unpleasant odors? 

Poo-Pourri Lavender Vanilla Scent Before-You-Go Toilet Spray

RELATED:    10 Essential Items I Always Pack for a Cruise

DJI OM 5 Smartphone Selfie Stick with Stabilizer

In addition, as a person that cruises and travels solo, I’ll admit that I like to have at least a few photos of me with an interesting background to remember the trip. 

Or, if I meet some new friends, I can place it on a table, set my phone self-timer and get a decent group photo.

And last, it has an excellent built in stabilizer (that’s a “gimbal”). So if I want to take a video as I walk around ancient ruins or record a calving glacier while the ship is in motion, it’ll take the perfectly stabilized video.

It folds down into something about the size of your hand and fits neatly into its cloth case.

Portable DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer with Case

READ NEXT:  9 Money-Saving Items to Pack for a Cruise

Passport and Vaccine Card Holder

Available in many colors and vacation-themed designs.

AC Dream Passport and Vaccine Card Holder Combo

Extra Strong Magnet Hooks

Did you know that most walls and doors on cruise ships are metal? They may look fancy, but they’re usually metal.

These hooks are great for a zillion uses; hanging your hats and caps, sunglasses, lanyard with your room key, wet raincoat or umbrella and on and on. 

Living in a small room  for a few days or longer, it’s so nice to be able to declutter your living space. I bought two packs…I usually forget to “unstick” at least one on each trip. 

Strongman Magnets | 6 Pack of Powerful 30LB Neodymium Heavy Duty Magnetic Hooks

Packable, Lightweight Day Bag / Backpack

Yes, I have this one, too. And in pink…for a Caribbean cruise and black for Alaska, of course. Because it folds into itself into a tiny package, I bring it along on all my cruises; you never know when you’ll need extra space at the end of the cruise.

Bago Packable Lightweight Backpack – Water Resistant  

Foldable Jewelry Organizer Case

Right. I know I said that I keep my small earrings in the hanging organizer. I use it for necklaces, bracelets and dangle earrings (or post earrings if the organizer is full). This foldable case is small and easy to carry with you, NOT in your checked luggage.

BAGSMART Travel Jewelry Organizer Case Foldable Jewelry Roll

Hydro Flask Lightweight Water Bottle

This is my go-to travel water bottle from Hydro Flask…light weight but still carries 24 oz. Remember never to let the lip of your personal water bottle touch the public drinking fountain spigot on the ship.

READ NEXT:   Holland America Eurodam Review on Alaska Cruise

With your own Hydro Flask, it holds more than a $2.99 plastic water bottle, is better for the environment, looks much nicer and you can bring it home! Plus, I’ve used the lid handle with a carabiner clip to attach to luggage or a belt loop.

Waterproof Lanyard for Mobile Phone

It’s waterproof, not just resistant. Just make sure the seal is completely closed. There’s even a quick release clip if you need your phone separately.

Mobile Phone Waterproof Pouch with Touch Screen on a Lanyard

Cruise Lanyard for Your Ship Card

The pouch is also waterproof and fits all major cruise lines’ ship cards. Wear with or without the pouch, if you have a hole punched in your card for drinks, too. These make a great gift idea for first time cruisers.

Cruise Lanyards for Ship Cards, 2-Pack with Several Cute Nautical Designs

Cruise Journals- Simple and Compact

Bonded Leather Journal 5-Pack

Cruise Staff Thank You   Cards

Even if you don’t feel the need to “overtip” someone, leaving a special thank you note is very much appreciated by the crew, far away from their families and countries. 

Cruise Staff Thank You Cards

Alaska Inside Passage Ornament  

The ornament lists all the Alaska cruise ports on an Inside Passage cruise plus recognizable iconic symbols.

Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Ornament

Recommended For Cruiser Who Love to Read 

And finally, you can give someone a gift of Kindle Unlimited if they have a Kindle e-reader (like my new Kindle Paperwhite ) or to use with the Kindle app on any of their devices. 

In addition to my new Paperwhite e-reader, I also have the Kindle app on my iPad to use with my Kindle Unlimited plan. I did this so I can download cookbooks and read the recipe as I cook. 

When it comes to finding the best gift for someone who loves to cruise, first-time cruisers or even yourself, I hope my hand-picked list will make your gift-buying decision a little easier.

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Hi Mary, Thank you so much for taking the time to read my article and send your question. Yes, the daypack can hold a puff jacket or vest. Sometimes the puffy jacket comes with its own little bag with a hanging cord. When I had a puffy jacket that did not come with its own little bag, I’ve squished it up and stuffed it into a gallon freezer bag and rolled it up to let out the air. Then seal it and unroll to have a totally flat jacket to put into your suitcase. I’ve used the jacket in its own bag with a carabiner to attach to my daypack, too. I have that pink daypack and it’s super convenient. Thank you again! Happy travels!

Thanks for another great article! Is the day pack large enough to hold a puff jacket and/or vest?

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What are you looking for?

Gifts for Cruisers (15+ Expert Tested Options)

Posted on Published: 11/08/2023

As you develop your holiday (or birthday) shopping lists, looking at someone’s hobbies or passions is definitely a good idea. Doing that can give you so many great gift ideas. When you personalize your gift list, you know the item will be used and it also shows that you appreciate the recipient’s hobbies and passions.

Do you have someone who loves to cruise on your list? Frequent cruisers may already have some of these items, but they could need a refresh. Someone with a cruise in their upcoming vacation plans will definitely need and want some of these gifts for cruisers. If they don’t take cruise vacations too frequently, consider something with more broad use that they can use for other vacations as well.

After five cruises in the past year (and over two dozen total), I’ve put together this list of items that are helpful to have on a cruise and would be great gift ideas for cruise lovers. I’m listing both what I own and links to other places to purchase these types of items.

Here are some of the best cruise gift ideas.

This post contains affiliate links, and a purchase through one of these items may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. All opinions are my own.

Gifts for Cruisers {13 Expert Tested Options}

Luggage tags.

If you have checked bags for your cruise, you’ll hand those off at the port before going into the port terminal. Every cruise line handles cruise luggage tags differently. Disney Cruise Line will ship them directly to your home, while Royal Caribbean and Celebrity provides pdfs that you print out and add to your bag yourself. Because it’s so important that your luggage is easily identified, I like to have a plastic luggage tag on my bags that I can place the paper Royal Caribbean printout in.

We have these plastic luggage tag holders which were specifically made for the tags that Royal Caribbean and Celebrity provide. There are other options on Amazon, including these which were made for the Norwegian cruise line .

Charging Cords

So many electronics, so few outlets. While the newer cruise ships have been made with many more outlets, it’s become more and more difficult to find space to plug everything in. Cruise lines generally confiscate power strips and surge protectors now, so those aren’t an option.

If your gift recipient travels with Apple products, like an Apple watch, iPhone, and AirPods, I really like this 3-in-1 power cord on Amazon . It includes an Apple Watch charger and two Apple Lightning cords and plugs into a USB adaptor. It’s also a great stocking stuffer.

Just note this won’t work with the new iPhone. Another option is this four-in-one , which includes a type c cable.

Some people prefer a stand where they can charge everything. This one is a great option .

If your gift recipient is traveling to a beach destination on their cruise, a beach bag can be a great option. It’s got broad use, so they’ll be able to utilize it being their cruise vacation. The right beach bag can even be used as a carry-on on a flight, as a cruise day bag , and on shore excursions.

My favorite beach bag is from Aloha Collection. It’s got a full zipped top, which helps keep sand and water out of the bag. It packs small in a checked bag or can be used as a carry-on bag. Aloha Collection is sold in many stores, including Amazon .

Toiletry Bags

Cruise cabins are notoriously small. I like to have a hanging toiletry bag that I can bring in and out of the bathroom as I need it. Most bathrooms have a towel hook you can hang it from.

I like the Vera Bradley hanging toiletry bag , which can be folded up and then unfolded and hung. I keep it full of toiletries and makeup for travel because I travel frequently. It’s sold in a variety of different patterns and colors so you’ll be able to find something that your gift recipient will love.

Cadence Capsules

These reusable capsules are heavily advertised on Facebook and Instagram, so you may already be familiar with them. After seeing ads over and over again, I decided to make a purchase, and they are now one of my favorite travel items.

Cadence Capsules are magnetic, and have a wide opening so you can easily add products. They are the right size for carry-on, and you can just fill them from your larger bottles at home. Tiles at the top can be customized as labels, and if you change what’s in the bottle you can purchase new customized tiles.

These are a great gift for cruisers or any other frequent traveler. Because they are a splurge, they may be something the recipient doesn’t already own. They are also one of the most unique gift ideas on this list.

Reusable Water Bottle

I drink a lot of water, especially when I travel. A reusable water bottle is a great way to make sure you always have some water at hand. Many cruise lines have refill stations for water bottles, so having one can help save money since you won’t have to purchase bottled water.

Of course, a really nice reusable bottle is also useful in everyday life, so it’s a great gift. My two favorite brands for gifts are Corksicle and Hydro Flasks . There are lots of different patterns and colors offered.

Travel Wallet/Passport Holder

Cruisers typically have to carry their passports and other travel documentation to show at the port, and when returning. A nice travel wallet or passport holder is a great gift idea.

I prefer to carry a larger travel wallet rather than a holder for a single passport. That way, I can hold other things like cruise documentation, multiple passports, a Global Entry card, boarding passes, etc.

This leather wallet from Amazon is great for a family because it can hold several passports as well as other essential documentation. This one comes in several different leather colors.

Most cruise lines (with the exception of Virgin Voyages ) utilize key cards. Your key card will be used to open the stateroom door, leave and return to the ship during port stops, and charge purchases, so they are very frequently accessed. As a result of that, many cruisers wear them on cruise lanyards so they are conveniently located.

Some cruise lines (like the Disney Cruise Line ), give a very basic cruise lanyard to Castaway Club members. For others, they can be purchased in the onboard gift shops for an additional fee along with other cruise accessories.

I really love this Kate Spade New York Minnie lanyard , which is great for a Disney Cruise. There are lots of other lanyard options available on Amazon . While some of these lanyards also have room for cash or credit cards, they usually aren’t needed. However, it is nice to have space for a driver’s license when you leave the ship.

Small Handbag

While I bring a large tote around the theme parks, I usually only carry a small handbag on a cruise. I really only need to carry a few items with me (like my cell phone, lip balm, and EpiPens) at a time, since I can always go back to my stateroom to get whatever I need.

My current favorite is the Lululemon Belt Bag. They often sell out, but if you can get ahold of one online or in-store, it’s can be the perfect gift. I also like wearing it on the plane so I have my AirPods and other necessities right at my fingertips.

Towel Clips

Cruises can be windy, so towel clips are important for making sure your beach towel stays on your lounge chair. Towel clips are easy to pack and are great stocking stuffers. There’s a selection of them available on Amazon.com . Towel bands serve the same purpose, but I prefer the clips.

Water Bottle Holder

For excursions, especially in the Caribbean, it can be nice to carry around water. A water bottle holder/sling can carry a bottle of water along with essentials like credit cards and IDs. These on Amazon come in a variety of colors .

Anyone who hands off their luggage for an extended period should consider using AirTags (if they have an iPhone). These tiny devices have come in handy numerous times for us over the last few years. You can purchase AirTags in a single pack or a four-pack at this link .

I’d also recommend getting holders/keychains for these as well. This set comes with four .

Travel Pouch

When it’s the end of your cruise and you have a wet swimsuit, where do you pack it? I love these travel pouches from Aloha Collection. They completely close with a zipper at the top, so I use them in my beach bag at the beach to hold my electronics. Then, when it’s time to go home, I put my wet swimsuits in them so the contents of my luggage don’t get wet and sandy.

They are available on Amazon.com in a variety of patterns .

Note that these aren’t dry bags – they aren’t meant to be submerged and can’t get completely soaked. They are more of a water resistant pouch, but I find them to be perfect for a day at the beach or pool deck. If your gift recipient is likely to participate in water sports, a dry bag may be a better option.

If you know your gift recipient is traveling on a specific cruise line in the near future, a gift card is a good idea. While usage may vary, cruise gift cards can usually be used for onboard purchases, like spa treatments, alcohol, and entertainment. They can be one of the best gifts for experienced cruisers who may already have most of the items on this list.

Packing Cubes

I’ve written quite a bit about packing cubes . I find them to be one of the most convenient ways to pack. They can organize your clothing by style or day, and also compress things to make them fit better in your luggage. You’ll have some extra space in your bag for even more clothes or other accessories!

I like taking packing cubes on cruises because the storage space may vary in your cruise cabin. Some ships, like the Disney Wish , have very open shelves, and packing cubes can keep things organized. Once you use them, you won’t want to go on vacation without them!

When purchasing packing cubes, you’ll find different colors and styles. I recommend getting a different color for every member of your family so you’ll know what belongs to each person immediately after opening the suitcase.

Which of these useful gifts are you planning to purchase for the avid cruisers on your list this holiday season?

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15 Perfect Christmas Gifts For Cruise Lovers (2023 Edition)

When it comes to that person on your gift list that loves cruising, what can you get them? The most obvious answer is a cruise, but that’s often way too much money to spend on a single gift. 

Luckily, there are all sorts of fun gifts for cruise lovers that they will be thrilled to receive. To give you some ideas, we’ve rounded up a list of fun and unique gifts that anyone who loves to cruise is sure to like.

Note: The links to Amazon used below are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

Nautical Bracelet with an Anchor Clasp

When we found this bracelet, it immediately caught our eye. Featuring a thick nylon band with a metal anchor clasp, it’s a cool way to show off your love for the sea. One thing to note is that it runs a little small, so it may not fit larger wrists according to some reviews. $10 on Amazon .

Bookmark Made With Cruise Deck Wood

By far the most unique gift idea for a person who likes to cruise. This bookmark is made with actual teak decking from the Carnival Triumph/Sunrise. We can’t think of a better accessory to give an avid cruiser who wants something a little special that connects them with cruising even when they aren’t on the ship. $42 on Etsy .

Easy-Roll Luggage

Personalized Travel Map

It’s a cute and thoughtful way to remember a special cruise. These maps are personalized based on the actual trip that you’ve taken. Put your homeport, all your stops, and more to create a one-of-a-kind memory of your trip. Prices vary based on size and type of print. Available on Etsy starting at $32 .

Personalized Cruise Ship Ornament

Want to remember that special cruise every year? This personalized Christmas ornament is just the thing. Hang it on your tree and you’ll always have a cute reminder of the warm breeze in your face during the cold winter season. Measures approximately 3.5 inches in width. $13 on Etsy .

Cruise Ship Model

This is the most intricate ship model we’ve ever seen and a great display piece for a living room or office. It measures more than three feet long and comes with a display base and name plate. You can even get it with lights inside so that it is illuminated at light. There are several different ships available, including more from Royal Caribbean, as well as Norwegian and Disney, so you can pick your favorite one. Starting at $449 on SavyBoat.com

Waterproof Valuables Case

Whether you are hanging by the pool or don’t want to leave your valuables on the beach while taking a dip, a waterproof case is a must-have. Use it to keep your phone, wallet, keys, and anything else dry as a bone so you don’t have to worry just because you want to go swimming. You can get two bags for under $10 on Amazon .

Slip-Resistant Flip Flops

Quick-Dry Mesh Bag

Have a couple of towels, a change of clothes, your hat, sunscreen, bottle of water, and a book? Whew! You’re going to need somewhere to put all that stuff as you head to the beach or the pool. This oversized mesh bag is perfect. It’s lightweight and will dry fast even if it gets a little wet. $9 on Amazon .

Cruise Gift Cards

Want to simply give the gift of a cruise? There’s no simpler way than by purchasing a gift card. You can get them in denominations from $100 to $500, giving you the option to purchase several to cover an entire cruise or just chip in on a trip. We’d also suggest seeing about discounted cards via AARP to save some money .

Carnival Gear & Merch

Have someone that’s a Carnival fanatic? Did you know the cruise line has an entire online store dedicated to all sorts of goodies? From t-shirts to totes, from ornaments to hoodies, there’s something for everyone. You can shop here and find the perfect gift .

Upcoming Cruise Gifts

Maybe the person you’re buying for is about to head out on a cruise? In that case, major lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer the ability to buy gifts for the cruise. From room decorations to alcohol to branded merchandise and lots more, you can get it all.

If sailing Carnival, you want to check out the FunShops . If sailing Royal Caribbean, you’ll want to visit the online store here .

Stocking Stuffer: Motion Sickness Medicine

Stocking Stuffer: Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray

Have other Christmas gifts that you think are perfect for cruise lovers? Let us know in the comments below.

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42 Cruise Gift Ideas (The Best Gifts For Cruise Lovers!)

Are you looking for the best gifts for cruise lovers?  Seriously, there are so many people who are obsessed with cruising! Friends and family members will love these cruise gift ideas.

We have caught the cruise fever! We went on our first cruise this year and already have one booked for next year!   Cruising is fun and one of the easiest vacations to plan! 

In this post, we are going to focus on gifts for people who go on cruises all the time, gifts for someone going on a cruise for the first time, and basically all of the practical and essential cruise gifts anyone would need.  

I hope this post will help give you the best cruise gift ideas for all of those cruise lovers in your life. 

Let's start with cruise gifts that would make great Christmas or Birthday cruise presents. (We will get to practical cruise gifts a little later.)

If you want to save this information for later be sure to pin this to Pinterest. 

This post contains affiliate links (Including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you . 

1. Christmas Cruise Ornaments

For all of those cruise lovers out there, the perfect cruise presents for Christmas could be as simple as an ornament. 

Christmas ornaments are one of my favorite things to buy all year round when I travel to different places.   If you are looking for a specific Christmas gift for cruisers this is a great option.  

Holiday-Themed Cruise Presents

There is also some really awesome holiday-themed cruise presents you can check out on Etsy.  We love shopping locally but you will have to plan ahead because Etsy does take longer to ship than Amazon! 

This is a good option for gift ideas for cruisers.

2. Shirts for Your Cruise

I love matching shirts! If you are looking for some pre-cruise gift ideas shirts are perfect. This cruise gift idea will be a hit! If you or someone you know are going on a cruise soon this is one of the best gifts for cruise lovers.

Custom Cruise Shirts

There are so many great options.  One thing I really love about Etsy is that you can customize your shirts.  You can put everyone's name that is going and the year.  These shirts are usually inexpensive you can check the price here .  If you want personalized cruise gifts, this is perfect!

3. Cruise Ship Mugs

Cruise ship mugs are great gifts for cruisers who do not have a cruise planned but love all the memories they have made so far.  Every time they look at their mug it will bring them joy and make them happy! 

Thoughtful Gifts for Cruisers 

Having a fun mug is a perfect cruise gift idea that is practical for everyday use but also just simple, not too expensive, and very thoughtful.  

4. Cruise Tumblers

A water tumbler or water bottle makes great gifts for people who go on cruises.  Many people like to have water on hand while cruising.  You do not want to get dehydrated.

They also are very practical while you are on vacation or just at home making them the perfect gift for cruise lovers.  The Stanley Tumbler is one of the hottest items on Instagram right now.  Everyone has them! I personally still like the Hydro Flask but it is not as “cool”.

Customizable Water Tumblers

Customizing is the best part of this cruise gift! There are so many cute ways to decorate water bottles with cruise-themed vinyl. I love these personalized cruise gifts!  

5. Cruise Ship Art

If you have been on cruises you will know that sometimes there are art shows on board but that might not be the best cruise gift to give someone because I'm sure the price tag is a little higher.  

Cruise Art Décor for the Home

A few options for gifts for people who go on cruises are paintings, photographs, and artwork.  There are some great options online .  You could also take a photo from a past cruise and use Shutterfly and print and frame it. 

6. Cruise Ship Décor

Home décor is the perfect gift for cruise lovers.   

My Favorite Cruise Gift Idea

I think the signs that count down till your next cruise are the perfect gifts for cruisers.  It is so cute!  In fact, I am going to buy it for my cruise-loving parents.  They seriously cruise over 5-6 times a year! This will be useful! 

Another cute option for a post-cruise gift is a “ cardholder ”  This is a little place to put past cruise ship cards in.  

Cruise home décor is so fun and the perfect cruise present for cruise lovers. 

7. Cruise Picture Frames

Another great home décor item is a picture frame . A lot of times on cruises there will be professional photographers ready to take your picture.  I am sure your friends who are cruise lovers have a few that are laying around.

Display the Fun Times

A picture frame is a great present to help them display all the fun times they have had.  These make perfect gifts for Caribbean lovers because you can always find a beautiful spot to take a picture! 

8. Cruise Excursion Bags

Are you ready for the best cruise essential gifts?  An excursion bag is a perfect gift for cruisers. 

Gift Ideas for Cruisers

If you have never been on a cruise, then listen up.  As you check-in, your luggage is taken and will arrive at your cabin.  Whatever you think you might need until your baggage arrives should go in a carry-on beach bag.  

Not only is a bag great for boarding the cruise ship but also perfect for shore excursions .  When you go on shore excursions it is nice to have a bag to keep your stuff. 

If you are looking for gifts for someone who cruises all the time this is perfect. 

9. Cruise Ship Essentials

If you need a gift for someone going on a cruise, these are the cruise essentials gifts that are ultra-practical. 

Cruise Essentials Gifts

Lanyard cruise gifts.

A cruise lanyard is a great way to keep track of your room key/ID card.  You need this card to not only get into your room but to enter/exit the ship for excursions. 

Power Strip Cruise Gifts

An extra power strip is super practical.  I didn't really notice a shortage of plug-ins on my last cruise but maybe if you are on an older ship this would be handy. 

Magnetic Hooks Cruise Gifts

Magnetic hooks are awesome to save space and hang up whatever you need to.  You can also get a shoe holder to store different items as well. 

Waterproof Items for Cruise Gifts

Another really practical MUST-HAVE is a waterproof phone case .  I love these. I take them on every beach vacation.  I want my phone, so I can use the camera!!!  These cases keep them safe from water.   Another great option is a waterproof waist strap . 

Towel Bands for Cruise Gifts

Towel bands are like the coolest thing ever.  You can always lay your towel on a beach chair but it falls, this cool contraption keeps your towel in place.  It is perfect to claim your spot on the pool deck. 

More Practical Cruise Gift Ideas

All of these items might be great to add to a cruise care package.  You could also add your cruise lover's favorite book , walkie-talkies if there is no cell reception or a portable charger for a phone. These are also great cruise gift basket ideas.  I have a few more ideas I will share in a minute. 

10. Cruise Ship Jewelry

If you are looking for cruise gifts for women, jewelry is always a win.  Now there are two thoughts.

Formal Night

One thought is if your cruise has a formal night and you are looking to buy someone something fancy and stylish.  You can always go to a jeweler or even Sams has some great options. 

Trendy Jewelry 

The other thought is simple cruise-themed gift bracelets or earrings you can wear anytime.  These are fun little cruise gifts! 

11. Cruise Swim Suit Cover Ups

You can never have too many swimsuit coverups on a cruise.  Seriously! These would be perfect options for cruise gifts for women. 

The Best Cruise Gifts For Women

There are so many cute options! It is nice to have swimsuit cover-ups for all of the shore excursions. Plus, just the time you walk from your room to the pool deck.   

I actually loved having a cute swimsuit cover-up at our stop at Royal Caribbean's Coco Cay.   It was nice to get off the ship and be ready to swim. 

12. Beach Hats

You know someone that just loves to relax in the sun!!! Beach hats are perfect cruise gifts for the cruise lover! 

Personalized Cruise Gifts – Beach Hats

There are lots of options for beach hats. You can go more sporty with a ball cap or fancy with a big beach hat.  These can be personalized cruise gifts. If you know someone getting married, there are some cute options.

13. Cruise Gifts - Shoes

If you are brave enough to buy someone shoes, there are some good-better and-best options for cruises.  

Good-Better-Best

If you are going on a cruise that has a lot of tropical port stops you will probably want a good pair of flip-flop s , water shoes or Keens .  

For casual walking the deck a nice pair of Birkenstocks or other easy-to-put-on shoes is nice to have.  

The easiest shoe to give as a cruise present is water shoes .  A good cruise gift for men is Keens .  Unless you really know the cruise lovers' style casual shoes are going to be much much harder to buy. 

Our Experience

We used our water shoes at the Royal Caribbean's private island Perfect Day at Cococay , where we went on a Cococay excursion to the Thrill Water Park . I would have been really sad if we didn't have water shoes! 

14. Cruise Presents - Beach Gear

Sometimes it is nice to bring your own beach gear on a cruise.  I love having my snorkel set .  I know you can rent them but I prefer my own.  They do take up space so some people might not want to bring them on a cruise.  But if you are like me, I think it would be a great cruise gift! 

Shore Excursion Cruise Gifts

Some other fun items that might be helpful for your shore excursions are sand coasters and sand removal products . After a fun day on the beach, you will want to clean up before heading back to the ship.  This makes a great gift for cruise lovers

15. Cruise Gift Packing Essentials

Packing essentials are great gifts for cruisers.  Everyone has to pack and it is nice to have fun toiletry bags and the right items to pack for a cruise! 

Packing Cruise Essentials Gifts

There are some great packing cubes that will help your cruise lovers stay organized.  there are also a lot of nice carry-on luggage options .  

16. Electronic Cruise Gifts

If know a cruise lover that would love an electronic cruise gift. I have a few ideas.

Go Pro Cruise Gift

A Go-pro is so cool to take with you on all of your shore excursions.  They are a little pricey but worth it.  I bought a knock-off and it was lame.  It didn't work. So I recommend going with the better product.  

Watch Cruise Gift

Another nice thing to have is an Apple Watch or a Garmin Watch .  Want to know why?  It is so cool to see how many steps you take on a cruise ship.  I seriously was hitting over 25,000 steps a day.  It was awesome! 

Airpods Cruise Gift

If you know someone who loves music or listens to books on audio AirPods are a great gift for cruisers. 

Binoculars are not an electronic in the traditional sense, but they are awesome gadgets to have on a cruise ship. 

17. Cruise Gift Basket Ideas

If you want to make this cruise gift really special, wrapping it up in a nice cruise gift basket will be perfect!  I am going to put a list together and you can click on and order everything off of Amazon and be done! 

Cruise Gift Basket Items

• Main Item –   Cruise Ship Shirt, Cruise Home Décor , or Picture Frame,  
• Waterproof Phone Protectors
• Sand Remover
• Cruise Lanyard
• Candy in these Bags

Cruise ship gift baskets are fun gifts for someone going on a cruise.  It is all about presentation. You can seriously put anything in it!

18. The Best Cruise Gift a CRUISE

Do you want to give the best cruise gift EVER….Giving someone a cruise vacation would be awesome. It would be very generous of you for sure! 

The most common times people will gift cruises are for honeymoons, birthday trips , family reunions or just wanting to go on a warm winter vacation with friends.  

Need Help Deciding When to Go on a Cruise?

I have created a really cool breakdown of the best times to book your cruise. by month and area. (Caribbean, Europe, Alaska….)  If you want a copy I can email it to you! 

Book A Cruise 

I highly recommend going through Priceline f or most cruises.  They typically offer more onboard spending credit.  If you are going on a Disney Cruise you should book with a Disney specialist like GetAwayToday .   They know Disney! 

Surprise Cruise Gift Ideas

If you are looking for ideas to surprise someone with a cruise. There are some fun goodie bags you can fill with “ cruise tickets “ or you could have a puzzle custom-made that says “ Surprise we are going on a cruise!”  

This year our family reunion is was on the Allure of the Seas cruise ship.  We have talked about it for a long time.  We wanted to give everyone time to save up and not have to worry when we go.  

Grandma and Grandpa did a big reveal on Thanksgiving.  They had cruise ship-shaped cookies made.  There were cute boarding passes and money to go towards our cruise.  Grandma actually booked everything ahead of time so all of our cabins were close together.  

The kids do not know which cruise or when so the surprise will be for the kids!  My kids had been on the Oasis of the Seas so they new how much fun this surprise was going to be. 

42 Cruise Gifts Ideas

#1-21 basic essentials cruise gifts.

• Cruise Excursion Bag
• Extra Power Strip
• Magnetic Hooks
• Water Proof Case 
• Water Proof Waist Strap
• Swimsuit Cover Up
• Toiletry Bag  
• Seasick Motion Patches
• Laundry Bag
• Passport Holder
• Water Shoes
• Shoe Holder
• Carry On Luggage
• Packing Shoes
• Snorkel Set

#22-30 Cruise Gifts for the Home

• Cruise Christmas Ornament
• Cruise Ship Mugs
• Cruise Tumblers
• Cruise Ship Art
• Cruise Home Décor
• Count Down to Cruise 
• Picture Frames  
• Post Cruise Gift (Card Holder)
• Sand Coasters

#31- 36 Cruise Ship Gift Basket Ideas

• Cruise Ship Shirts
• Cruise Ship Goodie Bags
• Cruise Ship Journal
• Walkie Talkies (If there is no cell reception)

#37-42 Cruise Ship Electronic Gifts

• Apple Watch
• Garmin Watch
• Portable Charger

Gifts for Cruise Lovers Recap

Wow, that is a lot of fun ideas for gifts for cruise lovers! Now, I want to go on a cruise.  I hope this post helps you buy the perfect cruise gift for your friends and family members.  

Good Luck on your quest on finding the best cruise gift for cruise lovers! 

Facebook Community

Are you planning a trip soon? Have any questions?  Join my   Travel Community on Facebook .   This is a great group that can help answer any travel questions you might have.  I also try to add any deals that companies send me as well.

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22 Comments

What cool ideas! I especially love the cruise signs and the countdown blocks until the next cruise!

I thought that was so cute!

What a fun gift guide! I loved all of the cruise ship gift ideas and so many would be the perfect gift for anyone who not only loves cruises but nautical-themed items too! I have a few sailing aficionados in the family, so I’ll be bookmarking this to remember some fun gifts for them!

These are all great cruise gift ideas! So many are really thoughtful, great ideas! We enjoy cruising too! My favorite item that I would be lost without are the cruise ship beach towel clips for holding your space on the deck chairs! Our first cruise was learning curve without them!

They are really cool!

I love all the great gift ideas for sea loving people! I definitely see somethings I can get for my friends that love cruises.

Great selection of gift ideas. I many of this would work for beach lovers too. I really liked the cruise wall art ones, they looked so amazing on the wall. Thanks for sharing.

For sure Beach or Cruise!

What a helpful gift guide for those that love to cruise! My parents are about to embark on one and return just before the holidays, so this has given me lots of ideas for their Christmas list. I especially like the tote bags.

That is perfect timing!

What a great guide for cruise lovers. Some ideas are fun and cool.

perfect for the cruise lover!

What a fun gift guide for all the cruiser’s or nautical buffs out there! Love the practical one’s and being the beach lover that I am, love the towel clips!

Those are awesome!

Such fun gifts for those who like to go on a cruise. I have never been and doubt I will go since I am terrified of boats and ships, but I still use gift ideas. They are extremely versatile. Really like sunhats and swim coverups.

What a wonderful list of gifts for those who cruise! I’ve yet to go on a cruise. Sure how to one day.

They are really fun!

The gift ideas for cruisers are amazing! We loved the cruise tumblers. Thank you for sharing.

They are so cute!

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These are the 15 best cruise gifts for the holidays

The winter holidays are almost here. Every year, I vow to start shopping early, but I'd say I'm only successful about half the time. If, like me, you have avid cruisers on your gift-giving list and appreciate ways to make shopping less stressful — especially if you've waited until the last minute -- you'll want to check out these recommendations.

From stocking stuffers to big-ticket items, these are the best gifts for cruise lovers.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Stocking stuffers

Lanyards are hotly debated cruise accessories. Some passengers swear by them for keeping track of their cruise cards, while others insist they'd never be caught wearing one.

Whether you include one for serious use or as a gag gift, they're affordable and compact enough to fit in a stocking. Plus, they come in nearly limitless colors, styles and clasp variations. Now, all that's left to do is decide whether the giftee would prefer a nautical theme or something with a bit more bling .

If you're new to cruising, you might not know that the walls in most ships' cabins are metal, which means they're magnet-friendly.

Passengers use simple pushpin-style magnets to keep everything from spa flyers to shore excursion tickets organized and easily accessible — just like hanging important reminders on the refrigerator at home. Magnetic hooks are also a solid option for anyone who might need extra space to hang bathing suits, towels, bathrobes or workout clothes. (Just be sure to choose a type that can handle the weight.)

Bathroom spray

It's not pleasant to consider, but anyone who has shared a bathroom in close quarters knows how embarrassing it can be. If the person whose stocking you're filling has a sense of humor, you'd be remiss not to include a bottle of scented toilet spray.

There are several brands on the market, including Poo-Pourri and Squatty Potty's Pootanicals , which will make sure everything comes out roses (or lavender or citrus). Bonus: The bottles are small enough to comply with the TSA's carry-on liquid restrictions.

Highlighters

Although many cruise lines are moving away from printed daily schedules and, instead, giving passengers access via cellphone apps, it's still possible for passengers to request physical copies if they prefer something tangible.

Because the printouts are often jam-packed with things to do, highlighters are useful for marking off the most appealing activities. For bonus points, get the recipient a pack with several colors, which will allow different members of the travel party to indicate their preferred pastimes on the same sheet.

Know someone who's got a cruise coming up? Snag them a cruise line gift card for as little or as much money as you'd like. They can put the value toward their onboard spending, which will help to offset purchases like alcohol, specialty dining, spa treatments and shore excursions.

If the person you're buying for doesn't yet have a sailing planned, they can use the gift card toward a new booking with whichever line the gift card is for. (Cards in various denominations are offered by several major lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, Holland America, Princess and Celebrity. Disney Cruise Line accepts general Disney gift cards for bookings and onboard spending.) Or, if you know they have to fly to their port of embarkation, consider an airline gift card.

Don't forget: These are the best credit cards for gift card purchases .

Price-conscious presents

Magnetic board

If the cruiser in your life is sentimental, a magnetic board is a great present that will help them to display their keycards from each sailing. Post-voyage, they can attach some magnetic tape to the back and stick it to the board.

Many of the options come framed with wood or metal, making for stylish decor. Plus the shape — generally square or rectangular — is easy to wrap.

Portable charger

Anyone with a social media account knows how tempting it is to share travel photos at every turn. Unfortunately, this leaves any mobile battery screaming for some juice, especially after a long day lazing on the beach or exploring in port. With many cruise lines leaning heavily on mobile apps for everything from daily schedules and dinner reservations to muster drills, even sea days can drain batteries quickly.

Cruisers who just can't seem to disconnect, even on vacation, will find a portable charger invaluable. They're available in a range of sizes, colors and price points, but decent ones will set you back anywhere from $50 to $100 and can charge multiple devices.

Alcohol camouflage

Although I don't recommend sneaking alcohol onto a cruise ship, many cruisers still try to save a few bucks by bringing their own booze. Apart from generally not being allowed, it's tacky. Plus, if it's detected and confiscated, it won't be returned, so it will actually end up costing you more when you combine the price of the contraband alcohol with any drinks subsequently purchased onboard.

Still, if you know someone who absolutely insists on skirting the rules, they will surely welcome a set of plastic liquid bags with caps — known by many as rum runners — or faux toiletry bottles , which allow tipples to easily masquerade in checked bags as shampoo, mouthwash and more.

Travel tracker

The frequent cruisers on your list will love the chance to show off where they've been with a present that tracks their travels — and I'm not talking about some high-tech gizmo that will cost a fortune.

Travel maps are all the rage right now. They range from scratch-off poster versions and color-in globes to corkboard wall hangings where you can mark destinations with pins . I've even seen larger-scale wooden versions that take up entire walls, giving wanderers the ability to check off each location with markers, paint or chalk.

Gadget organizer

As modern cruisers know, travel these days is almost impossible without gadgets. Whether they're using a cellphone to scan a flight boarding pass or a tablet to read a novel by the pool, it means wrangling cell phones, tablets, laptops, camera equipment and, of course, chargers.

Help them keep it all neatly organized and in one place with a number of packable pouches that offer zip pockets, elastic loops, and lots of other nooks and crannies for storing everything they'll need to stay plugged in when they sail. Want to add an extra-special touch? Include a spare phone charging cable; they'll be glad you stowed it in there when they inevitably forget to bring their usual one.

Seaworthy splurges

If you know a cruiser who's also a bibliophile, gift them some holiday cheer with a shiny, new Kindle or Nook that they can take on their next voyage to save space. (Nobody needs to lug several pounds of heavy books on vacation.)

If you're feeling extra generous, you can include a gift card that will cover the purchase of their first title or two.

Know a certain seafarer who's in need of a new set of luggage? You can find a decent selection of styles, colors and brands — including some of TPG's favorites — at a range of price points.

Is the recipient more of a carry-on-only traveler? If so, TPG can also recommend some formidable options . (My personal favorite is Away's standard-size carry-on bag — not the larger carry-on, which doesn't fit in some overhead bins.) In this case, you might also want to consider accessories like packing cubes or small liquid containers to complete the present. Fun tip: Forgo a traditional "to/from" holiday tag, and attach a luggage tag instead.

Want to shop local? Check out a small luggage retailer near you .

For the active cruiser who has just about everything, consider a GoPro or similar action camera to help them score footage of their experience on the onboard waterslide or on a crazy zipline adventure in port.

Action cams often come with a hefty price tag to start, but some of the add-ons — memory cards, head straps or gimbals — might also be worth including.

Car service or private jet

If you're looking to go big with your gift and you have funds to work with, consider reserving a car service or private flight for your already-booked cruise-loving friend or family member this year. To start, all you need is their name and departure date (and a pickup location for a car service), and you can make sure they arrive at their destination in pampered style.

Want a good place to start? Check out semi-private flights with Aero . Keep in mind that some cruise lines, such as Virgin Voyages and Silversea, already include car service to the embarkation port in some of their fares.

This one is completely obvious as one of the best gifts for cruisers, but there is no more relevant present than, well, a cruise. It's a gift that's sure to impress — but only if you know the recipient's preferred travel style. Certain factors — such as the line, ship and destination you pick — can make or break a cruise experience, so you'll want to choose carefully.

A cruise itself is, of course, a large purchase, but you could book it using points and miles , or earn points by booking through a portal, such as United Cruises or the American Express Cruise Privileges Program. If you're not familiar with how cruises work, you should learn the basics here before committing:

• How to get a deal on a cruise
• A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line
• Which cruise brand is best? A guide to the most popular lines
• Tips for booking your first cruise
• When you should use a travel agent

For even more gift ideas, check out our list of quirky but useful cruise must-haves .

How to maximize your winter holiday spending

Do you have tons of points and miles stored away? A quick bit of research can help you use them to buy presents for everyone on your list .

If you're looking to earn points, rather than burn them, brush up on the season's latest credit card offers, which can help you maximize the return on your spending.

For example, through Dec. 25, you can score up to five points per dollar spent on Amazon purchases when you use an eligible American Express card, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express . (If you don't have a qualifying Amex, there are other cards — including the Chase Freedom Unlimited and the Discover it® Cash Back – that will give you the best bang for your buck when you shop at Amazon .)

The information for the Discover it Cash Back has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Or, depending on where you plan to shop and how much you're planning to spend on presents this year, perhaps it's time to apply for a new card. The Citi Premier® Card , which has a modest $95 annual fee and is currently offering 60,000 bonus points when you make $4,000 worth of purchases in the first three months of account opening, will reward you with a generous welcome bonus (see rates and fees ). Another good option is the Amex Platinum, which will give you 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases the first six months of card membership.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Best Gifts for Cruisers: 50+ Fun & Useful Cruise Gift Ideas!

Looking for fun and useful cruise gift ideas to give to someone who loves cruising? I have put together my top picks for gifts for cruisers . As an avid cruiser and cruise packing expert my suggestions for gifts for someone going on a cruise are all tried, tested and 100% practical.

This post on gifts for a cruise covers:

• If you’re looking for the perfect gift ideas for cruise lovers in your family or circle of friends then you’ll find almost all these things would make a great birthday or Christmas gift.
• Cruising with others? It’s a lovely idea to surprise your travel companions with a few cruise gifts prior to your trip, especially if it’s something really useful that they might not have thought to pack for themselves.
• Tips on how to make a DIY cruise gift basket.
• If you want to know how to surprise someone with a cruise as a gift , then I have some ideas for that too.

Pin this post for later!

50+ Cruise Gift Ideas

Waterproof phone case / Towel Clips / Cruise Lanyards

If you’re looking for a small and inexpensive but extremely useful gift for a cruise then these are some of my top picks. The waterproof iphone case is one of the most useful items for cruise travel because it lets you carry your phone around the ship or on excursions without worrying about it getting wet or sandy. The towel clips are great for keeping your towel in place on a sun lounger. Lanyards are so useful for looking after your ship card and making sure you always have it to hand.

Cruise Luggage Tags / Passport Holder / Travel Document Wallet

If you’re looking for practical cruise gift bag ideas then pop in some cruise luggage tags and a passport or travel document wallet. Just make sure you by the right sized cruise luggage tags for the ship you’re traveling on as there are two different shapes depending on the cruise line you’re traveling with.

Cruise Tote Bag / Sandproof Beach Tote / Wet-Dry Bag

These bags make great gifts for cruisers and you could also use them to pack up other smaller cruise gift items to give to someone you’re traveling with.

Waterproof camera / GoPro / Selfie Stick

If you’re looking for some more expensive gifts for people going on a cruise then a waterproof camera or GoPro are a wonderful idea. A selfie stick is a less expensive option.

Cruise T-Shirts & Tank Tops

One of my favorite cruise themed gifts! If you’re looking for fun, matching gifts for cruise lovers then get them some t-shirts that you can all wear on your cruise. Matching shirts are great fun for embarkation day and cruise photos. They help you find your group and keep them together.

You can either buy readymade matching shirts easily just click on any of the images above to get links to the shirts I’ve shown here.

You can also make custom cruise t-shirts with your family name, cruise ship name, cruise date or vacation theme by going to Zazzle.

Full face Snorkel / Sandproof Beach Blanket

If you’re looking for cruise related gifts for someone who loves the beach on their shore excursions then these are a great choice. These new full face snorkel masks are all the rage and really work. A sandproof beach blanket means no mess back in your cabin.

Travel Coffee Cup / Reusable Water Bottle  / Wine Bottle Protector /  Cruise Love Mug

Some simple, inexpensive gift ideas for someone going on a cruise like a cute travel cup or drink bottle to use on board are a lovely idea. Wine bottle protectors are also useful as most ships allow you to embark with one bottle of wine per person to drink in your cabin.

Coffee mugs to use at home or in the office that reminds everyone your friend loves to cruise are also a cute, cost-effective gifts for people who cruise.

Sea-bands / Dramamine / Ginger Candy / Seasickness Patch

Putting together a little seasickness prevention kit makes for great gifts for going on a cruise with someone who hasn’t cruised before. They might not have the knowledge or experience to know to bring a few bits and pieces like these along to combat seasickness on a cruise. My article on how to avoid seasickness on a cruise is a must read!

A little DIY disinfectent kit ( Lysol Spray / Wipes / Hand Sanitzer ) will also work really well for keeping healthy on a cruise.

Sunscreen / After sun gel / Sun vizor

Sun care products are great  gift ideas for cruise goers. They’re inexpensive but thoughtful and make great fillers if you’re putting together a gift basket of cruise gifts. The sun visor I’ve pictured above actually rolls up making it perfect for travel!

Binoculars / Travel Alarm Clock / Travel Luggage Scale

Binoculars make great gift ideas for a cruise to Alaska! They’re one of my Alaska cruise essentials for spotting all the wonderful wildlife. Travel alarm clocks are another great little cruise ship gift ideas as there aren’t clocks inside the staterooms. A luggage scale for travel is also very useful to help avoid overpacking.

Kindle / Portable Speakers / Walkie Talkie / Power Strip without Surge Protector

If you want to give some useful electronics to the cruise lover in your life try these! The new waterpoof Kindle is great for cruising. Portable speakers are fun for listening to music in your room. Walkie talkies are so useful when you’re traveling with older kids who want free reign over the ship but who you also need to keep tabs on. Powerpoints are always in short supply in cruise cabins and you must use a non-surge protector power strip if you want to use one so this is a very useful little gift.

Highlighter / Marker / Post-it Notes

If you’re looking for inexpensive Christmas gifts for cruisers then some stationery to use on a cruise makes for excellent stocking stuffer gifts for cruise passengers.

Delsey Luggage /  Nautica Luggage /  Heys America Luggage

Luggage or luggage sets makes ideal gifts for a cruise passenger who you know hasn’t traveled much. You can get some really great suitcases with four spinner that are perfect for cruising. A 25″ case is the ideal size for a one week cruise.

Cruise Cash or Gift Cards

If you’re still stuck for gift ideas for cruise travelers then grab then a gift card to use on board for drinks, spa treatments, excursions or shopping. You can also gift items like wine, birthday cakes or decorations for in their cabin. Here are the links to buy cruise gift cards:

• Royal Caribbean Gift Cards
• Carnival Gift Cards
• Princess Gift Cards
• Celebrity Gift Cards

DIY Cruise Gift Basket

White Cane Basket /  Cellophane Bags for Gift Baskets / Nautical Storage Cube /  Nautical Anchor Printed Ribbon

Here are some ideas on how to make your own cruise gift basket:

• Purchase a wicker/cane gift basket or a nautical themed reusable storage box.
• Include a variety of the cruise themed gifts I’ve mentioned above OR go for a specific theme e.g. sun care & beach gear, useful cruise travel products or electronics for a cruise.
• Pack the items creatively into your chosen gift basket
• Use cellophane gift basket wrappers and a nautical themed ribbon to wrap up the gift basket

If you have any other cruise gift basket ideas I would love to hear them!

How to Surprise Someone with a Cruise

Giving a cruise as a gift is an amazing idea! If you’re planning a cruise as a surprise for a friend or family member and want to give them something to announce, you’ll need some ideas to surprise someone with a cruise.

Here are some surprise cruise gift ideas that you might like to try:

• Give them a cruise gift basket or give out cruise gift bags that you’ve made up with the instructions in the paragraph above. Maybe add a nicely printed card with the ship name and date on it to announce the cruise.
• Another creative ideas on how to gift a cruise is to wrap up a smaller present and then explain that you’re actually giving the recipient a cruise once they open it will a puzzled look on their face! A cruise ship model works to give as a gift (either with a note or an explanation or another cruise specific gift (like luggage tags!) from the list above.
• Print out images of your cruise ship and destination port and make a collage on a piece of card or inside a a greeting card and give it to your loved one and let them guess what the
• Simply print the itinerary out and package it in a nice envelope like this .

If you’ve got any creative cruise surprise ideas I would love to hear them!

Post Cruise Gifts

If you’re looking for a post cruise gift idea then a photo frame or cruise scrap book stickers is a nice idea.

I hope my list of gifts for cruise travelers has given you some ideas on what to buy someone going on a cruise. If you’re looking for a present for someone going on a cruise this holiday season, any cruise lover would be delighted with these gifts or a gift basket made up to include these items.

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Cruising Gifts – 30+ Practical Items For Cruisers

If you have friends or family who love to cruise, these unique gifts are perfect items for Christmas, birthdays, retirement, or special occasions. Gifts for cruisers don’t need to be expensive. The most practical presents are inexpensive, and the ones they’ll use most, onboard and at home.

Nothing beats a personalized cruise item, like a t-shirt or journal. Receiving a pre-cruise surprise adds an element of excitement to your anticipated cruise. While cruisers prefer to be at sea, these mementos will remind them of their vacation until they can sail again.

Cruising Gift Guide

With this gift guide for cruise lovers, you’ll find inexpensive items that they’ll use over and over again. There are items for men, women, and children going on a cruise.

For a pre-cruise surprise, select an item that adds to the excitement of the upcoming event. For those who love to be at sea, cruise-related home décor can remind them of their cruises.

Amazon and Etsy are great places to shop for cruising gifts online. If you’re an Amazon Prime customer, your purchases may even arrive the following day.

Most Used Cruise Essentials

Whether it’s a first-time cruise or an encore adventure, these cruise items are a must.

Personalized Cruising T-shirts –  I’ve been on many cruises where groups and families wear coordinating t-shirts to celebrate their event. So, why not kick off your cruise vacation with a family cruise shirt.

One of the most memorable ones I’ve seen said, “families that cruise together, stay together,” and had their name and date underneath. 

Waterproof Cell Phone Case  – Today’s cell phones are expensive, and most travelers use them to take photos instead of a camera. So, Protect your investment with an inexpensive waterproof case. Pop your cell phone in a case and take it to the pool or beach, or use it during a water-focused shore excursion.

Power Strip –  With all those electronics, cruisers need an all-in-one charger. Cruise lines require a charger with no surge protector and without an extension cord. This power strip  is so handy; we use it at home and while cruising. It’s a gift that every cruiser needs.

Lanyard –  A cruising lanyard allows passengers to hold their cruise card (essentially their credit card) without carrying a wallet or purse. While most are worn around the neck, some have belt clips, and others are on bracelets.

Magnet Hooks  – Since cruise staterooms have magnetic walls, turn that unusable space into storage with strong magnetic hooks.

Use the magnets to hang bathing suits, hats, towels, jackets, and more. Your cabin will remain tidy, and the hooks will help to create more space, especially in those small interior cabins.

Towel Bands – Beach towels are forever blowing off the loungers whenever there’s a breeze. While some travelers carry towel clips, these towel bands are easy to use, are non-breakable, and take almost no space in your luggage.

Travel Scale – It’s no fun arriving at the airport, and your luggage is overweight. Prevent overweight charges with the ideal travel gift, a travel scale.  The scale takes up little space in your luggage, so you can weigh your suitcases on your return journey after the souvenirs are packed.

Cruise Gifts For Her

For the women who have all the cruising essentials, select an item from the following.

Cruise Scrapbooking Supplies – Travel scrapbooking is a fantastic way to document your vacations. So, surprise your crafty friend or family member with some cruise-related scrapbooking supplies. Not only can you create scrapbooking pages but make cards too.

Sleeping Mask  – Sleeping masks are not just an essential item for cruising but also come in handy on long airplane flights. They block out artificial light, which results in the ability to fall asleep faster.

Cruise shoes – Nothing says you love cruising than these super funky license plate cruise sneakers.  The canvas shoes feature vivid colors, perfect for the Caribbean or that Mediterranean cruise. Custom-made to order, these shoes are guaranteed to please the woman who receives this gift. 

Anchors Away Bracelet  – Make a splash on the ocean with a fun, ocean-inspired bracelet that features a ship’s anchor. For the ultimate gift, pair it up with some matching anchor earrings.

Personalized Slippers – Feel like you’re staying in a luxury hotel with these super fun customized slippers. Wear your comfy slippers with the cruise line’s complimentary robe for a day at the ship’s spa.

Are you going on a group vacation with your girlfriends? Order a pair for each person. It makes for the perfect girl’s getaway memento.

Pandora Ship Charm  – This Pandora ship charm adds a cruising element to a Pandora bracelet. With an upcoming cruise, this charm reminds the wearer of their impending cruise vacation. It’s the perfect travel gift for women.

Cruise Ship Earrings  – Women can show their love of cruising with a pair of cruise ships, anchors, or ship’s wheel earrings. 

Cruise Gifts For Him

Don’t forget about the men who love cruising too.

Cruise socks – These “ what happens on the ship, stays on the ship ” socks are super comfy. They come in a two-pack, perfect for the male cruiser.

Portable Charger –  With long days in port, don’t chance running out of battery power on your cell phone. A portable charger provides extra battery life. It’s the ideal gift for those at sea and on land. 

If you travel with a laptop, the Level8 luggage (carry-on) has a laptop pouch and allows you to charge your smartphone by using the portable charger in your luggage.

Rashguard T-shirt – Rashguard clothing helps prevent sunburn with a UPF 50 rating. Wear it during a water-based excursion or hiking in places with no shade. Rashguard items are lightweight and dry quickly.

Dry Bag – When spending time at the beach or taking a water-based shore excursion, protect your electronics in a dry bag. A dry bag  also comes in handy in Alaska and destinations that experience a lot of rain.

Compact Binoculars – Binoculars are a fantastic gift for those cruising to Alaska. With a pair of compact binoculars, cruise passengers can spot humpback whales along the Inside Passage. 

If sailing to Glacier Bay National Park, binoculars cruise passengers can spot bears on the shoreline. It’s an essential packing item for an Alaska cruise.

Travel-Related Gifts For Children

Disposable Underwater Camera  – While adults snap underwater shots with a GoPro, let the children capture pictures too. A disposable underwater camera is inexpensive, and the adults won’t need to worry about them losing or damaging it.

Water Shoes – Protect kids’ feet with non-slip water shoes. Aqua shoes  are great for water-based tours and help prevent slippage around the cruise ship pool. They come in lots of fun colors and feel more like a sock than a shoe. They make a great cruising gift that the kids, and adults too.

Disney Cruise Luggage Tags  – Disney-themed luggage tags will add to the excitement of an upcoming adventure for children booked on a Disney cruise. With colorful character tags, they’ll easily spot their luggage at the airport and when debarking from the cruise ship.

Cruise Themed Lanyards –  Lanyards don’t need to be boring. Surprise the children with Disney or fun-themed lanyards that are sure to make them smile.

Disney Character Magnets –  Since those cruise ship staterooms are magnetic, allowing the little ones to decorate the walls with fun magnets. For the girls, dress-up dolls with magnet clothes will entertain them in the cabins. 

Kids Snorkel Set  – Surprise the children with a kid-sized snorkel set. With many cruises focused around warm destinations, the children will be ready to learn to snorkel in every cruise port.

Gifts For The Vacation

Cruising Mask –  Since cruise lines change their rules constantly, one thing’s for sure, you’re going to need a face mask for a while. What better way to enjoy wearing a mask than with a cruise-themed one?

Since many indoor places require a mask, both onboard and onshore, cruisers can use this mask cruising and at home.

Cruise Line Gift Cards – O ne of the best gifts to receive is a gift card to your favorite cruise line. The gift cards translate into free credit to use onboard. Passengers may use the gift card to help fund the cruise, buy meals in specialty restaurants, shore excursions, spa treatments, and more.

Travel Towels –  Travel towels are very absorbent but roll up very small. So, pass on the bulky cruise line towel and carry a microfiber towel  instead. With the added space in your bag, you’ll have room for cruising souvenirs.

Cruising Tote –  Since most cruises sail to warm destinations, surprise your family or best friend with a cruising tote. A cruise bag makes for the best beach accessory to carry around your sunscreen, towel, and camera.

Door Magnet  – Since all cruise stateroom doors look alike, why not attach a magnet to your cabin door. That way, it’s easy to find every day. Amazon sells door magnets and lots of travel gifts for every kind of budget.

Ship’s Log Journal  – Those who like to document their cruise experience might enjoy a ship’s log journal. Before you embark on your vacation, a journal works well for making notes on what to do in port.

Reusable Straws – With the ban of disposable straws, give your cruiser friend a gift of travel straws. These silicone straws  are reusable and come in a handy travel case with cleaning brushes. It’s the perfect sustainable travel gift.

Funny Cruise Gifts

Hangover kit – For the party-goers, a cruise hangover gift  makes the perfect party favor. Choose your choice of bag color and a tag saying.

Cruise Fund Piggy Bank  – If you don’t know what to buy for an avid cruiser, this cruise fund jar encourages them to save for the next cruise vacation.

I Survived The Great Cruise Shutdown  – Celebrate the return to cruising with an “ I survived the great cruise shutdown ” magnet or ornament.

Ship Faced Travel Mug  – Travel mugs are a must for every day. Instead of blending in with the crowd, enjoy a latte or rich brew in a fun cruised-themed mug instead. These mugs are inexpensive and make a great co-worker or secret Santa gift.

Funny T-Shirt  – If you know a cruiser turning 40, 50, or 60, celebrate with a birthday cruise shirt. There are lots of choices in colors, styles, and sayings. Even after the birthday, they’ll remember the event every time they wear the shirt.

Cruising Gifts For The Home

Cruise Ship Ornament  – It’s a tradition for some cruisers to purchase ornaments every time they cruise. So, why not add to their collection by buying a cruise-related decoration?

Cruise Throw Pillows  – Cruising accent cushions are a way to decorate your home and show your love of cruising too. Choose from a favorite cruise line, a generic cruise ship, a nautical theme, or a colorful design that represents a tropical location.

Scratch-Off Map  – For the traveler or cruiser who has everything, consider the gift of a scratch-off map. The map allows the recipient to scratch off places they’ve visited. Not only is it a great way to document their travels, but plan future cruise destinations too.

Whether you’re buying for a birthday, Christmas, or just a surprise, these cruise-related items are sure to please any cruise travelers.

Happy travels ~ Karen

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100+ Cruise Gift Ideas: Find the Perfect Gifts for Everyone!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

There’s something magical about the vast blue sea, the rhythm of waves, and the horizon stretching endlessly — it’s no wonder cruises captivate the wanderlust in many of us. But with the vast array of travel gadgets, accessories, and cruise-themed items available, how do you pick the right one?

Fear not, oceanic gift-hunters! We’ve plunged into the depths to bring you a treasure trove of cruise gift ideas that’ll have any traveler sailing in style and comfort.

Whether it’s gadgets to enhance cabin life, cruise essentials for tropical excursions, or just something to remind them of the vast ocean, our list promises waves of inspiration for every kind of cruiser.

The Art of Gifting

The gentle lapping of waves, the allure of foreign shores, and the soft hum of the cruise ship as it slices through vast expanses of ocean – these are the sounds and sights of a memorable cruise journey.

But what can truly elevate the cruise experience, creating cherished memories that transcend time, is the age-old tradition of gift-giving. Incorporating gifts before, during, and after a cruise can transform a delightful journey into an unforgettable experience.

Before the Cruise: Building Anticipation

The time leading up to a cruise can be filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation. Gifting something prior to the cruise can heighten these feelings, adding an extra layer of magic.

Consider, for instance, gifting a travel guidebook about the destinations on the itinerary. This not only allows for pre-trip planning but also sparks imagination and excitement about the upcoming adventure.

For children, consider cruise-themed toys or storybooks, which can help them visualize and look forward to the journey. These gifts serve as a prelude, setting the tone and creating an atmosphere of anticipation.

During the Cruise: Enhancing the Experience

While the cruise itself is packed with myriad activities, excursions, and moments of relaxation, introducing gifts during the journey can amplify the experience. A gift can act as a reminder that, amid the grandeur of the voyage, personal and thoughtful gestures still matter.

Imagine the delight of receiving a special spa package after a tiring day of shore excursions, or a customized picnic basket for a beach day.

For those celebrating special occasions onboard, like anniversaries or birthdays, a surprise gift can become the centerpiece of their celebration, turning a moment into a cherished memory.

Furthermore, for travelers who are new to cruising, a thoughtful onboard gift can ease any lingering anxieties, making them feel valued and at home.

After the Cruise: Reliving the Moments

The return from a cruise can often be bittersweet. The journey may have ended, but the memories linger, waiting to be revisited. This is where post-cruise gifts can play a pivotal role.

Gifting a beautiful photo album can provide an opportunity to relive the journey, allowing one to organize and cherish the moments captured. A souvenir, perhaps something unique from a visited port, can act as a tangible reminder of the places explored and the experiences gathered.

Even a simple handwritten letter, recounting shared moments or expressing gratitude for the shared journey, can be a heartwarming gesture, reminding recipients of the joy of the trip and the deeper bond forged during the voyage.

Gifts for Every Kind of Cruiser

Setting sail on a cruise is an adventure in itself, and selecting the perfect gift can heighten the excitement and wonder of the journey. Recognizing that every traveler is unique, we’ve anchored down on a list tailored for diverse types of cruisers. Whether you’re looking to surprise them before they embark or once they’re onboard, this guide will steer you towards making their cruise truly unforgettable.

The Adventure Seeker

Before the Cruise :

• Waterproof Backpack : Ideal for those shore excursions where they’ll be hiking, swimming, or exploring.
• Portable Water Filter Bottle : Perfect for the adventurer who wants to stay hydrated while ensuring their water is clean and safe.

On the Cruise :

• Shore Excursion Voucher : A ticket to an adrenaline-pumping activity like zip-lining, scuba diving, or parasailing at a cruise stop.
• Action Camera : Whether it’s GoPro or another brand, they can capture their thrilling moments in high definition.

The Sticks-to-Themselves Cruiser

• Noise-Canceling Headphones : So they can tune out the world and dive into relaxation with their favorite music or podcasts.
• Captivating Book : Grab your loved one a great book to read on one of the vast decks spanning the length of the ship.
• Spa Package : Gift them a day of unwinding with massages, saunas, and more.
• Premium Lounge Access : A quiet, comfy spot onboard where they can read, nap, or simply enjoy the serenity.

The Culinary Cruiser

• Global Spice Kit : A collection of spices from around the world, so they can recreate some cruise delicacies at home.
• Cruise Cookbook : Recipes inspired by popular cruise ship dishes.
• Specialty Dining Experience : A reservation at one of the ship’s gourmet restaurants.
• Wine or Cheese Tasting Session : An onboard experience where they can savor and learn simultaneously.

The Entertainment Buff

• Portable Theatre Glasses : Compact binoculars to get a closer look during stage performances.
• Music Playlist or Subscription : Curated tunes to get them into the vacation mood.
• Show Tickets : Ensure they have a seat at the most talked-about performances onboard.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tour : An exclusive look at the ship’s entertainment facilities, like the theatre or music studios.

The Family Cruisers (Traveling with Kids)

• Ocean-themed Board Games : Fun for the entire family, fostering bonding and excitement.
• Travel Journal for Kids : A space for young ones to document their adventures.
• Family Photo Session : Professional snaps to remember their journey by.
• Family Shore Excursion : An outing tailored for all ages, ensuring memories are made together.

Every cruiser has their own rhythm and style of enjoying the vastness of the sea.

By focusing on what resonates with their spirit, your gifts can enhance their journey, adding layers of joy, wonder, and memories that echo long after they’ve returned to shore. Set sail with your gestures of love, and watch them unfold in waves of gratitude!

Cruise Gift Ideas for Kids

Ahoy, mini-adventurers and budding pirates! The sparkling seas and breezy decks of a cruise ship hold countless wonders for young explorers, whether you are cruising with toddlers or pre-teens. But how can we make their maritime experience even more enchanting?

Whether it’s a birthday surprise, a celebratory present, or simply a ‘just because’ gift, our guide has been meticulously curated to steer you in the right direction.

Categorized by age and occasion, we’re about to make waves with these delightful ideas.

For the Tiniest Deckhands (0-3 years)

• Baby Sailor Outfit : Make their first cruise photo-worthy with a nautical-themed onesie or romper. It’s as adorable as it sounds!
• Soft Marine Animal Toys : Introduce them to the wonders of the sea with plush dolphins, whales, or turtles. Perfect for snuggles during naptime.
• Nautical Baby Blanket : Ensure they’re wrapped in cozy comfort with a sea-themed blanket, keeping them warm during cooler evenings on deck.
• Baby Swim Gear Set : Complete with a tiny sunhat, swimsuit, and swim diapers, this set ensures your littlest one is ready for some pool fun.

Junior Explorers (4-7 years)

• Pirate Adventure Kit : Ahoy matey! This kit, complete with a telescope, pirate hat, and map, ignites imaginative adventures on the high seas.
• Interactive Ocean Life Book : Dive deep into marine life with colorful illustrations and interactive flaps, broadening their horizon about sea creatures.
• Kids Waterproof Camera : Let them capture their favorite moments on deck or during shore excursions. It’s durable, easy to use, and, most importantly, waterproof!
• Sea-themed Craft Kit : Hours of entertainment as they create their own marine-inspired masterpieces, be it fishy stickers, sailboat origami, or seashell art.

Tween Navigators (8-12 years)

• Marine Biology Kit : A blend of fun and education, this kit lets tweens explore marine life specimens and offers a closer look into the magic underwater.
• Cruise Journal : Encourage them to jot down memories, stick souvenir tickets, or sketch their favorite views, creating a keepsake for years to come.
• Deck Card Games Set : Classic games like Uno or Go Fish, with a nautical twist, promise hours of fun with fellow young cruisers.
• Portable Waterproof Speaker : Let them groove to their favorite tunes, whether they’re lounging by the pool or enjoying some downtime in the cabin.

Gifts for Special Occasions

• Birthday at Sea : Consider a personalized nautical necklace or bracelet . It’s a beautiful keepsake reminding them of the special day they celebrated mid-ocean.
• First Cruise : A ship-in-a-bottle kit . Building their own model ship captures the essence of their maiden voyage.
• Holiday Cruises : A personalized Christmas ornament in the shape of a cruise ship makes a festive reminder of their holiday at sea.

From the minute they step aboard with twinkling eyes to the moment they disembark with hearts full of memories, these gifts promise to add layers of joy and wonder to their cruise journey. Whether they’re spotting dolphins, dancing under the stars, or simply absorbing the vastness of the ocean, these presents are sure to make their cruise an unforgettable adventure.

Romantic Cruise Gifts

Navigating the vast ocean of love is a journey as timeless and profound as any sea voyage. Whether you’re celebrating anniversaries on the open waters, your honeymoon on a cruise , or simply sharing a sunset on the deck, understanding your partner’s love language can elevate every moment.

Dive into our curated list of cruise gifts, tailored to speak each of the five love languages, and segmented by romantic occasions and preferences.

Words of Affirmation

Honeymoon :

• For Him : A leather journal to document your shared adventures.
• For Her : An elegant pendant engraved with a heartfelt message.

Anniversary :

• For Him : A personalized timepiece, engraved with the date of your wedding.
• For Her : A custom-made diary with prompts recalling your years together.

Valentine’s Day :

• For Him : A handwritten letter detailing the reasons you cherish him.
• For Her : A poem or a heartfelt note, enclosed in a cruise-themed locket.
• For Him : A vintage map of your shared journeys, annotated with your memories.
• For Her : A personalized book with letters to her for each year ahead.

Christmas :

• For Him : A custom leather passport holder, engraved with an affectionate message.
• For Her : A beautifully bound book of romantic quotes from around the world.

Acts of Service

• For Him : A surprise scuba diving or paragliding session at a tropical port.
• For Her : A pre-booked spa day, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation.
• For Him : Organize a surprise movie night under the stars on the ship’s deck.
• For Her : A private evening at the ship’s most romantic spot, complete with a violinist.
• For Him : A personalized treasure hunt around the cruise, leading to a surprise gift.
• For Her : Breakfast in bed, complete with her favorite morning delights.
• For Him : Pre-order his favorite drink and snack to be delivered at sunset.
• For Her : A surprise room makeover with flowers, chocolates, and candles.
• For Him : A DIY coupon booklet offering acts of service, like massages or taking his shift at a planned activity.
• For Her : A planned day where she gets pampered from sunrise to sunset.

Receiving Gifts

• For Him : A vintage-inspired, marine compass, symbolizing the direction and adventure your love will take.
• For Her : A piece of jewelry, perhaps a charm bracelet, where each charm represents a destination on your cruise.
• For Him : A curated box of gourmet snacks and beverages from each port you’ve visited.
• For Her : A personalized jewelry box, with intricate designs reminiscent of your shared travels.
• For Him : A limited edition cruise ship model, paying homage to your voyage together.
• For Her : A custom perfume, inspired by the scents of your cruise destinations.
• For Him : A classic nautical watch, representing the timeless nature of your love.
• For Her : A beautifully crafted cruise-themed pendant.
• For Him : A collection of travel books covering your next potential cruise destinations.
• For Her : A luxury cruise-themed calendar filled with photos from your previous travels.

Quality Time

• For Him : A private deep-sea fishing session at a popular port-of-call.
• For Her : A reservation at the ship’s specialty dining venue for an intimate meal.
• For Him : A whiskey or wine tasting experience onboard.
• For Her : A private art class that focuses on a craft from one of your cruise destinations.
• For Him : An onboard casino night, with a set budget for a night of fun.
• For Her : An evening at the ship’s theater, followed by a moonlit stroll on deck.
• For Him : A reserved day at the cruise’s golf simulator or virtual reality gaming zone.
• For Her : A day-long retreat to the ship’s spa, including all treatments and amenities.
• For Him : A booked session to learn a new onboard hobby, like photography or mixology.
• For Her : A reserved table for a special Christmas dinner onboard, complete with live music.

Physical Touch

• For Him : A massage or grooming session at the onboard spa.
• For Her : A luxurious bubble bath setup in your cabin, complete with rose petals and essential oils.
• For Him : An onboard fitness class you can enjoy together, like partner yoga.
• For Her : A couple’s massage, focusing on relaxation and connection.
• For Him : A reservation for the ship’s jacuzzi, with chilled champagne waiting.
• For Her : A dance class, where you can sway to the rhythms of love together.
• For Him : A sauna or steam room session, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation.
• For Her : A beauty treatment day, including a mani-pedi, facial, and hair styling.
• For Him : A surprise dip in the ship’s heated pool, under the stars.
• For Her : A cozy blanket and a reserved spot on the deck to watch the Christmas festivities.

In the vast tapestry of love and romance, it’s the thought and effort behind each gesture that truly makes waves. By tailoring gifts to resonate with your loved one’s unique language of love, you ensure a cruise journey rich in moments that will be treasured for a lifetime. So, set your sails and chart a course straight to their heart!

Top Cruise Souvenir Gifts

When you’re out at sea, exploring enchanting destinations, the joy of the journey is made even more memorable when you can bring a piece of it back for your loved ones. Choosing the right souvenir can be an art.

It’s all about finding something that not only captures the essence of the place but also resonates with the person receiving it. Let’s navigate through some popular cruise destinations and the best souvenirs to pick up for those awaiting your return.

Caribbean Cruises:

• Local Crafts : The Caribbean is renowned for its handcrafted items, from woven bags to wooden sculptures. These authentic pieces carry the spirit of the islands within them.
• Spices and Rums : Think of Grenada’s nutmeg or Barbadian rum – these aromatic and flavorful souvenirs are a treat for the senses and evoke the tropical essence of the Caribbean.

Mediterranean Cruises:

• Olive Oil and Wines : From the groves of Greece to the vineyards of Italy, gifting premium olive oil or a bottle of local wine is like sending a taste of the Mediterranean.
• Artisanal Soaps : Especially from places like Provence or Turkey, these soaps infused with lavender, rose, or olive offer a fragrant memory of the journey.

Alaskan Cruises:

• Native Handicrafts : Ulu knives, totem poles, or beadwork jewelry – Alaskan native crafts are unique and tell tales of its indigenous cultures.
• Salmon and Jerky : Smoked or canned salmon and reindeer jerky are not just delicious but are also a taste of Alaska’s wild bounty.

Asian Cruises:

• Tea and Pottery : Gifting a pouch of aromatic tea, especially from places like China or Japan, along with a traditional teacup, is like sharing a ritual.
• Silk and Hand Fans : Reflecting the elegance and artistry of Asian cultures, these make for both practical and beautiful gifts.

Scandinavian and Baltic Cruises:

• Viking Memorabilia : Be it a replica of a Viking ship or helmet, it’s a nod to the region’s rich history.
• Amber Jewelry : Particularly from the Baltic regions, amber jewelry is not only stunning but also carries tales of the ancient seas.

South Pacific Cruises:

• Pearls and Tapa Cloth : The lagoons of the South Pacific, especially places like Tahiti, are known for their pearls. Tapa cloth, on the other hand, is a traditional art form and a piece of Polynesian history.
• Wooden Masks and Carvings : These intricate items are not just decorative but are imbued with the region’s cultural narratives.

When selecting a souvenir, always remember that the value of the gift lies not in its price tag but in the story it carries. It’s a tale of distant lands, of cultures met, and of adventures had. And each time your loved one looks at or uses that souvenir, they’re not just reminded of you but also get a glimpse into the wondrous journey you undertook.

Unique & Obscure Cruise Gift Ideas

The thrill of receiving a gift often lies in its unexpectedness, a delightful surprise that one never saw coming. For those looking to embark on the less-traveled route of cruise gifting, this section is your treasure map.

Dive deep into the ocean of creativity and discover gift ideas that are as unique as they are thoughtful. Here’s a guide to some offbeat cruise gift ideas that are bound to make waves:

Customized Star Map

Why? : Gaze at the night sky during a cruise and you’ll be enamored by the stars. Gift a customized star map of the coordinates and date of their cruise. It’s a stellar way to commemorate a special voyage.

Ship-in-a-Bottle DIY Kit

Why? : A delightful blend of craft and nostalgia. This DIY kit allows the recipient to assemble their very own ship in a bottle, echoing the maritime charm as one of the top cruise gift ideas.

Ocean-scented Candle Set

Why? : When the cruise is over and they’re back home, this gift will waft in memories of the sea, salty breezes, and the feeling of being adrift in the vast ocean.

Bioluminescent Plankton Kit

Why? : A hands-on experience to cultivate and watch these magical sea creatures glow in the dark. It’s a tiny replica of the natural phenomena they might witness in certain oceanic regions.

Custom Nautical Knot Cufflinks or Jewelry

Why? : A subtle nod to the maritime world, these intricate designs can be worn during formal cruise nights, ensuring they stand out in style.

Antique Maritime Compass

Why? : A piece of functional history. Not only can it be used during shore excursions, but it also stands as a symbolic reminder that adventure is always on the horizon.

Personalized Sea Storybook for Children

Why? : Crafted with the child’s name and persona, this storybook can transport young travelers on a magical maritime adventure, ensuring bedtime onboard is filled with wonder.

Ocean Sound Wave Art

Why? : Translate the soothing sound of waves into visual art. Gift a framed print that captures the waveform of the sea’s audio, making it both an aesthetic and sentimental piece.

Virtual Reality Underwater Exploration Set

Why? : For those days when they can’t dive into the depths, this VR set offers immersive experiences of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life, right from the comfort of their cabin.

Portable Sea Salt Maker

Why? : Let them harvest their own sea salt! A quirky gift that allows them to process and crystallize sea water into gourmet salt, adding a pinch of their journey to future meals.

Gifting is an art, and when you blend creativity with thoughtfulness, the result is pure magic. These unique cruise gifts are not just tangible items but experiences, memories, and a testament to the fact that when it comes to showing love, sometimes it’s the offbeat path that leads straight to the heart.

Christmas Cruise Gifts

All aboard the jolly express! The magic of Christmas combined with the allure of cruising creates a holiday experience like no other.

As sparkling lights adorn cruise decks and carols float in the salty sea breeze, there’s no better time to shower your loved ones with thoughtful gifts tailored to their cruising desires. Sail smoothly through your Christmas shopping with our comprehensive guide, segmented by the gift receiver and their unique interests.

The Nautical Enthusiast

• Ship Blueprint Art : Elegant blueprints of classic cruise ships or famed maritime vessels, perfect for decorating their cabin or home.
• Maritime Literature : Think classics like “Moby Dick” or “Master and Commander” that’ll transport them to the high seas even while docked.
• Ship Wheel Christmas Ornament : A festive touch for their tree, celebrating their love for the ocean.

The Wellness Wanderer

• Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser : Portable and compact, it’ll fill their cabin with soothing scents, enhancing relaxation.
• Travel Yoga Mat : Lightweight and foldable, allowing them to practice their stretches with oceanic views.
• Spa Voucher : Gift them a luxurious treatment aboard, from deep tissue massages to rejuvenating facials.

• Cruise Cookbook : A collection of recipes inspired by popular cruise ship dishes, allowing them to recreate the flavors at home.
• Mixology Set : Compact cocktail-making tools so they can shake or stir their favorite drinks right in their cabin.
• Specialty Dining Experience : Book them a seat at the ship’s most exclusive restaurant for a memorable Christmas dinner.

The Adventurous Explorer

• Shore Excursion Guidebook : A detailed guide to the best activities and sights at popular cruise destinations.
• Waterproof Exploration Gear : Think snorkeling sets or waterproof bags – essentials for their adventure-filled shore excursions.
• Digital Travel Journal : To record and reflect on each exciting day of exploration.

The Entertainment Enthusiast

• Cruise Show Tickets : Book them a front-row seat to the ship’s Broadway-style show or a special onboard concert.
• Portable Karaoke Microphone : Let them belt out their favorite carols or hits in the privacy of their cabin or during ship-hosted karaoke nights.
• Board Game Set : Classic games with a nautical twist for endless entertainment on sea days.

The Young Mariners (Kids & Teens)

• Ocean-themed Advent Calendar : A countdown filled with tiny maritime surprises, perfect for the build-up to Christmas Day at sea.
• Cruise Ship Building Kit : Engage them with a LEGO or similar model ship set they can assemble during downtime.
• Underwater Camera : For capturing vibrant marine life during snorkeling or diving excursions.

Amidst the festive hustle and bustle, it’s the thoughtfully curated gifts that strike a chord. By aligning presents with the unique passions and interests of each cruiser, you’re not just gifting objects, but memorable moments and experiences.

As the ship’s bell chimes on Christmas morning, and the azure waves shimmer in festive spirit, your gifts will be the cherry on top of an unforgettable holiday voyage.

FAQs on Cruise Gift Ideas

When considering cruise gift ideas, many individuals often have queries to ensure their gift is both appropriate and appreciated. Here are some of the most common questions related to cruise gift ideas:

• What is a practical gift for someone going on a cruise? People often seek gifts that the recipient can actually use during their trip. Items such as waterproof bags, portable chargers, or reusable water bottles are popular practical choices.
• Are there restrictions on what gifts I can bring onboard a cruise ship? It’s essential to know if certain items might be prohibited or restricted onboard, especially things like alcohol or oversized items. Make sure to review the common items that are prohibited on cruises prior to purchasing your gift!
• What gifts are best for cruise ship cabin decorations? With many cruisers celebrating special occasions onboard, decoration items that are easy to put up and take down. Magnetic decorations or door banners are some of the best options offering plenty of configuration and personalization for the special occasion!
• Can I purchase gifts or experiences on the cruise ship on behalf of someone else? Yes! There are plenty of ways you can purchase gifts during your cruise vacation. For example, you can surprise your loved ones with pre-booked excursions, spa treatments, or dining experiences.
• What are popular cruise-related keepsake gifts? Keepsake items, such as custom cruise itinerary maps, engraved jewelry, or photo books, are often in demand as gifts that capture the memories of the trip.
• Are there gift shops on cruise ships? Most of the main-stream cruise lines (Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, etc.) offer gift shops aboard many of their popular cruise ships. Expect to see cruise-related apparel, keep sakes, and souvenirs from some of the cruise ports.
• How do I ensure the gift I give is suitable for the cruise destination? Depending on the cruise’s itinerary – whether it’s tropical, Alaskan, Mediterranean, etc. – you will want to make sure your gift is appropriate for the location. If you are worried yours may not be a good fit, opt for a cruise experience gift, like an onboard package, shore excursion, or souvenir from in port.
• Are there digital or electronic gift options suitable for cruisers? Yes! There are plenty of digital/electronic cruise gift options including cruise planners, eBooks, digital subscriptions, and apps tailored for cruise travelers.
• What are unique or out-of-the-box cruise gift ideas? For those wanting to gift something less conventional, they often seek ideas that are off the beaten path. Some ideas include ocean sound wave art, ship-in-a-bottle DIY kit, and a portable sea salt maker. For more, check out our section up above which highlights the most unique cruise gift ideas.
• Can I purchase and send a gift to someone already onboard a cruise ship? Some cruise lines will allow you to send surprise gifts, like a bottle of wine or a special treat, to someone already sailing. Make sure to double check with the cruise line for further details.

Remember, while these are some common questions, the best cruise gift ideas often consider the personal preferences and needs of the recipient. Taking the time to understand what the cruiser might want or need will make the gift even more special.

Cruise Gifts - 21 Brilliant Gift Ideas for Cruise Passengers

Cruise gifts are a great way create excitement for an upcoming sailing.

These gift ideas will instantly upgrade their experience.

We've surveyed hundreds of thousands of cruisers. Most agree on one thing. A few small items can have a significant impact on the cruising experience. The items below are the most frequently recommended cruise accessories.

Use the button above to pin this page to your cruise packing list board!

Why give cruise gifts?

Create Anticipation: Everyone knows the saying, "anticipation is half the fun." It's true. We love having something to look forward to. A cruise is on the top of that list. Cruise gifts are a great way to spark that excitement. A set of lanyards at the six month countdown. A set of luggage tags at three months. A travel tote bag at a month. All are great ways to build anticipation.

Cruse Agent "Thank You" Gift Ideas: Cruisers have many options when selecting an agent. They're plopping down a significant investment for their vacation. The agent receives a healthy commission from our business. We never feel like we're owed a "thank you." But, we're always very grateful when our agent sends a nice gift to show her appreciation. These small cruise gift ideas can go a long way in terms of "customer loyalty."

To Say, "You're Going on a Cruise:" She may be a bit confused when opening up a set of cruise lanyards. She may start putting the pieces together with the cruise cabin nightlight. Once she opens that last envelope with her cruise ticket, she should have a pretty good idea what's going down.

Treat Yourself: Sometimes (ok, often times), we like to treat ourselves to something nice. These cruise gifts don't need to be for anyone else. You deserve it. A few small accessories can have a significant impact on your cruise experience.

Regardless of your reasoning, here are the best cruise gift ideas of 2021.

Cruise Gifts - 19 Great Gift Ideas

Cruise Lanyards are on the top of our Cruise Gifts Ideas list. If you've cruised, you'll notice that everyone wears these around the ship. Why lanyards? Cruisers are constantly on the go. From cabin to pool to port and back. Throughout their vacation, they'll need to keep the necessities safe and close. A waterproof badge holder fits cruise key cards, cash, and credit cards perfectly. The lucky recipient will never lose their essentials with this great gift!

Cruise cabins are tiny. They're also very dark at night. Those midnight trips to the restroom require a little illumination to avoid damaged shins. The lights in the cabin, however, will wake up everyone in the room. This cruise cabin night light offers the perfect solution. It's motion activated to light up with activity. And it can be pointed in any direction to eliminate cranky spouses waking up with each trip. It also offers a magnetic base to stick onto cabin walls with ease!

Does your cruise buddy love to take selfies? We're guessing the answer is

This must have cruise item is on the top of all cruisers' packing lists. Cruise cabins typically have just two plugs. Yet we all have phones, laptops, cameras, e-readers, and countless other devices requiring constant juice. Unfortunately, any old power strip won't work. They must be

She'll need a handy tote bag for trips back and forth to the pool and port. Carry towels, snacks, reading material, and a change of clothes easily. The travel tote folds up into the palm of her hand when not in use. It's also ideal for port visits. She'll need extra space for those souvenirs. This offers more than enough space for any new trinkets! It's machine washable and extra durable for many cruises to come.

Give the gift of guaranteed luggage. We've had our bags lost on a cruise. It's a terrilbe way to start your cruise vacation. That's why these cruise luggage tags are a favorite gift for travel agents to send their clients. The cruise lines suggest that you print your issued e-tags and to STAPLE them onto your luggage! No thank you. We arrive in style and with the assurance our luggage does too. Click through to find the cruise luggage tags by specific line.

If your cruise gifts recipient has a good sense of humor and fondness for boat cocktails, this is a must have item. Muster drills are a

Do you have a nerdy friend who loves drinking and cruises? Here's a funny cruise t-shirt to combine those passions in one ridiculous display. He or she will enjoy countless smiles with every wear. This is a must have for the social cruiser in your life!

Cruise Nail Strips are a great way to stand out on a cruise. These Carnival Cruise inspired nail strips feature nautical designs in red, white and blue. They're guaranteed to get some attention from passerbys on the ship and multiple daily compliments. The nail strips are incredibly easy to apply. They're vibrant colors and should last for the entire cruise.

Does the cruiser in your life need some cabin organization? If so, the tops our list of cruise gifts. Easily organize your cruise tiny cruise cabin to keep clutter free all week. The cruise hack here is to use

Magnet hooks pair well with the cruise organizer seen above. These attach to most cruise walls as they're made of steel. Stick them anywhere throughout the cruise cabin. The magnetic hooks are extra strength to hold wet towels, organizers, purses, or other. Check any

If you haven't seen the

The next few cruise gifts top our packing list for

Ultraviolet light is on the forefront of our nation's fight against virus and illness. This technology is used in our hospitals and now available to take aong anywhere sanitization is needed. In a few minutes, the user can dissinfect items like an iphone, key card, toothbrush and more. Additionally, it comes with a handy phone charger. It sanitizes and charges at the same time! This is one of our favorite post-pandemic cruise hacks. It'll make for an amazing cruise gift for the health-conscious cruiser in your life.

This cruise gift is even more portable than the sanitizer box shown above. Now they'll have the power of ultraviolet dissenfection in their pocket or purse. It's battery operated so does not need a plug or adapter of any sort. Wave it over any item needed sanitization and it kills pathogens within 30 seconds of application. Cruise ships have really upped their game when it comes to health and safety. But, this provides one additional step of protection.

All of the mentioned items are cruise gift ideas to help improve the experience. This item is a bit unique. If you're actually surprising someone with a cruise as a gift, then this product is essential. It's the most fun way to surprise a lucky recipient. The front reads, __Oh ship__. The inside reads, __You're going on a cruise__! We've used this to surprise others a couple times and it's always an amazing (and hilarious) reaction.

We like to call this one the

Cruise Door Decorations are a must have item for that extra level of personalization. Every cabin door is identical. This can get extra confusing after a long happy hour. These sticky frames easily apply to the stateroom door with any printed decoration. They're also great for inside the cruise cabin to display daily itineraries, food menus, and more. We like to post a fun new daily message showing our hometown and reason for cruising. It always gets a few fun comments from our ship mates.

Towel bands are an amazing new invention and one of our favorite cruise gifts. Old school cruisers love towel clips. These are bulky and often break. Towel bands are the hottest ticket. These wrap around beach or pool chairs to keep towels firmly attached without blowing into the ocean. They also offer a convenient way to find your cruise setup amongs a sea of similar towels and chairs!

Water and smartphones go together like peanut butter and horseradish. Unfortunately, the two meet frequently on cruise ships. Everyone is constantly handling their phones and there's no shortage of water to be found. With the new safety protocols, phones will also replace key cards. This phone pouch and lanyard set solves all these issues. They'll have the device handy and safe for frequent and dry use!

Cruise customers are often disappointed that they don't receive a physical ticket after booking. They want something to touch. Something that they can post to their refrigerator. Fortunately, we have the solution to this as well. Gangwaze offers a free cruise ticket template. Use our widget to customize and download your cruise ticket in minutes. You can then print it out and include it with any of the cruise gifts mentioned above.

If you're thinking of getting cruise gifts for friends or family, these are wonderful ideas. We hope you find the perfect item.

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Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

Awesome Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Fans & People Going on a Cruise

Whether it was 2020 with canceled sailings for the year after March, or we're looking to more promising times in the future, we have the best cruise gift ideas for cruise lovers and newbies.

Cruise fans are pretty die-hard for the travel format. Maybe it's you or someone you know. (We're obviously cruise-lovers, so we get it!) But everyone going on a cruise would love some these cruise gift ideas. And lots of these items aren't just fun but will really help you on your trip.

Do you gift these items or get the items for yourselves? There's no wrong answer because rewarding yourself feels good, as does giving gifts.

Boating and cruise gifts, especially on Etsy, are alive and well. We are sharing the following gift categories, for any time of year (holidays included but great for year-round as well):

• Personalized gifts for someone going on a cruise
• General gifts for a person going on a cruise
• Practical gifts for your stateroom or cabin
• Practical gifts for a cruise vacation

We love supporting small businesses, so we've listed Etsy shop items wherever possible. When not possible, we share where to get the item elsewhere.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase,  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Personalized Gifts for Someone Going a Cruise

Custom flip flops.

There are two really cute personalized flip-flop styles we recommend as gift ideas for cruise lovers.

One pair reminds me of the famous designer, Jack Rogers, style of flip-flops. You can get your initials embroidered on the top of the flip-flops .

The other pair is great for a cruise that goes to beach destinations because they stamp your personalized message or name in the sand . So fun, right?

Personalized Toiletry Bags for Your Cruise

Everyone needs a toiletry bag. We love to have ours ready to go at a moment's notice so packing for vacation is super fast and easy, and we can pack in just 10 minutes . We pretty much keep duplicate toiletries in travel sizes of what we use at home in a toiletry bag at all times. (Hey, you never know!)

Travel in style with a personalized toiletry bag with your initials or name on it, or those of the traveling friend you're gifting it to. Or a fabric toiletry bag in a bright color , or a solid color polyester canvas bag with monogram . We love the bags that have an extra pocket or compartment, like the leather and canvas bag in the bottom photo.

It's a good idea to ensure your toiletry bag has a loop on it somewhere if you want to clip it up on a towel rod with a hook or carabiner to save space in your cabin bathroom.

Keep reading for links to some great hooks to gift to a cruise lover in your life in this article.

Personalized Beach Hats

Straw hats for vacation remain popular for photo ops (especially amongst Instagram lovers). But it's with reason – because nothing says “vacation” like a floppy straw hat!

Personalized beach hats are great for hanging out by the pool to shade your face from the sun and on non-windy days at sea. (Because a windy deck could mean your hat will fly off into the ocean)

You can customize them to pretty much say whatever you want on Etsy. Can you imagine laying on the beach at a port or on the top deck of a cruise ship with a fabulous hat, listening to your favorite Cruise Podcasts ?

Here are two we love:

• Cheers Beaches
• One you can customize with your name….or anything you want it to say.

Personalized Turkish Towels

A Turkish towel has many uses. It can be used as a towel in the bathroom, of course. But it can also be used as a shawl or a beach towel. People who have long hair can wrap it around their hair to dry faster after bathing. You can even use it as a blanket, to cover a lounge chair or on the beach or great lawn.

We love the embroidered Turkish towel options on Etsy. It's the perfect cruise gift idea for someone to pack because having one item with multiple uses saves on space, which is necessary when packing for a cruise.

Anyone you give this thoughtful, personalized cruise gift to will go gaga for it.

Two shops that are fabulous for embroidered Turkish towels on Etsy are TheCharmingStudio and PeshtemalTowel .

General Cruise Gift Ideas for a Person Going on a Cruise

Beach glass jewelry.

There's something so beautiful about beach glass jewelry. I've always loved the passage of time that's so clearly seen in beach glass, after years of tumbling in the ocean and rough edges are sanded smooth against the shore.

There are so many cute pieces of jewelry from Etsy vendors, like the example in the photo below from BeachGlassMemories. I love the idea of pearls with beach glass – it's the perfect blend of the sea with something shaped by sand and ocean water.

Waterproof Kindle

To us, packing for a cruise means packing light. And if we can cut down on the number of things we have to pack, the better.

So if you want to read on your cruise vacation but don't want to take multiple books get yourself this cruise gift idea: a waterproof Kindle . It's the perfect gift for cruise lovers and someone going on a trip where they'll be near water a lot…but also want to read.

The good news is that you won't risk pages of a book getting wet from over splash of anyone being a little rowdy in the pool.

Don't forget a Kindle case for it too!

Cruise Books

Speaking of a Kindle, you'll need some books to go on it! Consider any of the books from our list of over 25 nonfiction cruise books , broken down into categories including books by avid cruisers, books by cruise crew, and historic expeditions.

Gift Card Cruise Gift Ideas

Amazon gift cards (to buy kindle books).

You can't go wrong with an Amazon gift card …because you (or whoever you gift the Waterproof Kindle to) are going to need books on that Kindle! It would also potentially help them purchase a bunch of practical items we listed in this post, available on Amazon.

Gift Music with a Spotify Membership

The reason we like the idea of Spotify is that you can create a playlist and download it so it's available offline. Many cruise ships have internet available (whether included or for an extra cost, it depends on the cruise). But it's often not strong enough or reliant enough to stream music.

Thus, the best thing for someone going on a cruise is to download music, beforehand, that's readily available to listen to on their phone, offline. Which you can easily do in the Spotify app.

Apple Gift Card for Music or the App Store

We have a few apps that we recommend downloading for a cruise , including packing list helpers and night sky apps. Some of them cost money or have in-app purchase options.

An Apple gift card is a thoughtful cruise gift idea that would help someone pay for the apps.

Gift Card to Target, CVS, Walgreens, Supermarket, Etc.

Gift cards to places like Target, or even supermarkets and the like are always useful. You can include a card that says it's for all the not-so-fun but necessary items, like reef-safe sunscreen and anti-nausea pills .

Travel Tube Blanket

I knew I had to have a Travel Tube Blanket as soon as I saw it on Etsy. Initially, I got it because I get cold easily, especially on airplanes. It's a scarf that converts to a shawl and also a blanket. (So cool.)

But it's also come in handy on the top deck of a cruise ship when it's a little windy, or sitting on the beach if I get cold. (Because we like to walk on the beach during fall and winter too, like in Fort Lauderdale , and the weather is more unpredictable then.)

It comes in a variety of patterns and colors , and the business is female-owned and operated, by Carlyn Hooyer. She makes everything in the shop herself. She even makes Travel Tube Blankets in kids' sizes.

Nautical Bracelets

Omega sailing bracelet.

I love my rubber and stainless steel OMEGA Sailing Bracelet . It's a premium item that you can dress up or down and matches just about anything. I absolutely adore that I pretty much never have to take it off because you can wear it to the beach, in the ocean, and in the shower. All it takes to clean is a little soap and water.

Wildwood Oyster Co. Seaweed Bracelet

What's better to give a cruise lover than a bracelet that reminds them of seaweed?! It directly connects you to the ecosystem beneath the water.

Wildwood Oyster Co. is another one of the extra special cruise gift ideas to give to a family member or friend. You can choose from polished brass, teal or black patina, or sterling silver. And you'll be supporting a small business when you buy from them, which is located in Maine and is female-owned and operated.

Read more about this nautical bracelet to learn about the philanthropies they contribute to.

Nautical Bags, Made from Sails

How cool is it that Sea Bags creates totes, wristlets, toiletry bags, beach bags and more from recycled sails from sailboats? SO FREAKIN' COOL! They're upcycling material that has been on the ocean and giving it new life.

It's a unique business that we discovered when we went on our Maine Windjammer Cruise , especially walking around a town like Stonington , when we were in port. It just seemed appropriate and I felt extra special wearing one. I was so excited to be sporting a cool octopus-patterned bag, but they have a ton of different options. You can even design your own. Check them out here .

Mosquito and Bug Repellants

If you're going on a cruise and you're going to be by the water during any warm month, in any warm location, chances are you'll need a way to ward off bugs and mosquitoes.

We love the mosquito repellent bracelets we have because you can reuse them. You just get new essential oil refills as needed. And if someone gets you this cruise gift idea, it's one less thing you have to buy for yourself.

Anti-Nausea Medicine and Remedies

If you're the kind of person who thinks you may get motion sickness it's best to go on a cruise prepared. The cruise ships usually have some medicine to help onboard but if you know it'll be an issue no sense in not preparing. (We actually wish we had some just in case when Dan unexpectedly got motion sickness on a large cruise ship.)

Dramamine is of course one of the most popular over-the-counter drugs for nausea. Another remedy is anti-nausea wristbands. Our favorite (and the most stylish on the market) are Blisslets .

Make a Cruise Gift Basket with Miscellaneous Items for Someone Going on a Cruise

If you like to give practical gifts (which we personally enjoy giving) but don't think it's so sexy to gift someone anti-nausea pills, here's an idea: make a goody bag or gift basket for someone going on a cruise.

Include fun things like some gift cards, sunscreen and mosquito repellant wrist bands, and some hooks (mentioned below) for their stateroom. Even better if you're creating it to SURPRISE someone with a cruise !!

Useful Gifts for Your Cruise Cabin or Stateroom

Extra hooks.

Extra hooks are always helpful for your stateroom or cabin . We love s-hooks to simply hook our toiletry bags to a towel rod in the bathroom.

Or use heavy-duty magnetic hooks that can hold up to 22lbs or more depending on your needs. Be sure to notice the amount of weight the hooks can hold before ordering them.

Magnetic hooks with carabiners are also great for your cabin, as are a few extra carabiners that aren't magnetic. They come in handy!

Outlet Converters and Multipliers

If you're on a cruise that's based in another country it's likely the outlets may be made for European plugs. That was the situation on our Emerald Cruises river cruise on the Danube River . We had plenty of converters with us though.

In addition to this, the best way to get more outlets and USB charging ports in your stateroom is by bringing your own outlet converters and adapters that multiply them. Just be careful not to overload the outlets with too many volts.

nodpod Weighted Sleep Masks

We love our nodpod weighted sleep masks so much . They're double-sided to provide two texture options of fabric (one is a little warmer than the other) and wrap all the way around your head for comfort, as opposed to the annoying elastic strings that most sleep masks have.

They completely black out any light and we love that they're weighted. It's very soothing to have it on your face when you're lying down or around your head if you are sitting upright, like on a plane.

We rave about the additional reasons we love our nodpods in a dedicated post .

General, Practical Gifts for a Cruise Vacation

Stasher reusable bags.

These bags are great for so many things, whether to hold your sunscreen just in case the container opens in transit and leaks in your luggage, or to store charging chords. Ditch single-use plastic and give this gift idea to the cruise lovers in your life.

Not only will it save them from ever buying a Ziploc bag again, but it'll also help save the world's oceans, which are greatly affected by single-use plastic. And shouldn't all cruise lovers be friends with the environment , especially the ocean?

The company contributes 1% of its proceeds to charities helping to save the planet .

Stasher bags are also great if you need to put a wet bathing suit in a bag just before you get off a cruise ship, for those who want to squeeze in one last trip to the pool or hot tub before disembarking.

A Reusable Water Bottle

As you can probably already guess, we like to use reusable products whenever possible in an effort to help save the earth.

We use MiiR bottles at home. (They are AMAZING and keep your contents at the temperature you added it to the bottle for HOURS and HOURS. If your water is ice cold when you add it, it will be ice cold hours later, even if it's in direct sunlight.)

Memo Bottle

We love these because they're flat, so a Memo Bottle fits in a pocket, on the side of a backpack, in a purse, etc., very easily and comfortably.

MiiR Bottle

They’re insulated and keep the liquid at the temperature you added it to the bottle, for HOURS and hours. They rock.

We also love that the wide-mouthed bottles are easy to get ice cubes into. Use code “ SOMETIMESHOME ” for  15% off   your order .

Collapsible Water Bottle

This Nomader water bottle saves a lot of space when rolled up and empty. The only reason we don't carry one is because we're worried about squishing it when it's filled with water. But it's a great option if it fits your needs.

If you want a non-insulated, more lightweight bottle, we highly recommend what we travel with: a memobottle . Its flat shape allows it to fit so nicely in – or on the side of – a bag or backpack.

When you think about it, a round water bottle takes up so much space. This flat water bottle is genius… and has a cause. According to their website, “Every memobottle™ sold provides one person with two months' access to clean water.” That's a company whose mission we can get behind. (And we have.)

The A6 memobottle fits nicely in your pocket, which is great for Dan because he never carries a bag when we travel around port cities. What other bottle fits in your pocket so nicely like this!? These water bottles truly rock.

You can easily fill up your water bottle in the dining area of a ship, or wherever a cruise ship's drink station is, and carry it around with you. Many ships are adding water bottle filling stations to fill reusable bottles too, including cruise lines like Star Clippers , Kontiki , Emerald , and Viking to name a few. Or you can fill it up in a port city, where it's safe to drink the water.

CabinZero Backpacks

The great backpacks we put our memobottle on the side of, is our Cabin Zero backpacks.

Once we got these life-changing backpacks we stopped using any other luggage. We can pack for a two-week trip with these, which is hard to believe looking at it but true. (As we said, we pack light.) Even if you are a heavy packer and take another bag, this lightweight backpack is an awesome option to be one of your pieces of luggage.

They really hold a lot, fit in any overhead compartment on any plane we've ever been on (even small commuter planes), and even under seats too. The lack of a hard shell is part of what makes it possible for our Cabin Zero backpacks to fit in small spaces.

We fully reviewed our bags for your convenience and would love for you to check them out. They're great cruise gift ideas for cruise lovers and people who love to travel. They can also simply be stashed away in a stateroom drawer rather than take up precious space under your bed or in a closet on a cruise.

If our model of Cabin Zero bags are too big, and you're looking for a daypack or shoulder bag, they have those too .

Small Tenikle Photography Tripod

We love the play-on-an-ocean dweller this little Tenikle mimics: an octopus, of course!

A Tenikle is essentially a tripod for your phone or a small camera…but much more. (Another way to put it is that it's a grip suction holder for handheld electronics, as its patent describes.) And not only can you get an attachment for it that allows you to affix your phone to the top of the device, like in the photo below…

…but you can also stick a suction cup from one of the tentacles directly on your phone. This is great if you want to stick the other two “arms” of the Tenikle to a window, or wrap them around the pipe on a fence, for example, or even to your car window, while the third arm props up your phone for a selfie.

It's such a smart product, which we're happy to say utilizes silicone as its material, not plastic. Silicone is much better for the environment.

The company is run by a team in California, Hans Dose and his wife, Lydia, which has grown so much during the past five years since Hans originally put his idea out on Kickstarter. (And they've since appeared on Shark Tank and blew up!)

When you buy from Tenikle , you're also supporting a small business.

Waterproofing for Your Phone

If you insist on taking a phone on a water excursion because you want to take photos or need to be reachable by phone or work or family, you will need something to safely pack it in. (We completely understand – we're the same way.)

There are several waterproofing bags that are great for protecting your phone from getting wet if you're going kayaking, on a fishing trip (just in case!), or maybe even exploring waterfalls during a cruise excursion. Or heck, even if you're at the pool, drinking lots of delicious cocktails and get a little too hazy to be particularly extra-careful about your phone getting wet.

We do not recommend these bags for total immersion (like for snorkeling or scuba diving). For that, we recommend investing in a GoPro .

**Be sure you're purchasing the correct size waterproofing bag for your phone model.***

GoPro Waterproof Camera

It's one thing to take your iPhone or mobile device with you kayaking in a waterproof bag. But another to dive into the sea, fully immersed in the water to snorkel or scuba dive. The thought of an iPhone in the ocean gives us anxiety!

That's why we invested in a GoPro . You can take a GoPro in the ocean and stay underwater for a while with a GoPro. (Longer than you can hold your breath, that's for sure!)

We are glad we have one to take with us on cruises. They're fun onboard – for places like the pool or hot tubs – and are definitely handy for excursions.

Skyroam Pocket Wifi Hotspot

We use our Skyroam pocket wifi hotspot device to stay connected online for every vacation we take in Europe, especially. Including river cruises , of course.

We need to stay connected in other countries and on road trips (even within the United States) because we own our own businesses. Maybe you have children at home you need to be able to reach at any time.

Here's why this is one of the best gift ideas for cruise lovers who also need to be connected while they travel (like us, to manage our small businesses on the go): you'll be connected in ports and you'll also be connected to wifi wherever you start and end the cruise.

Some people get a SIM card for the country they'll be in if they're doing a land-only trip. But we are transparent about why we don't do that .

Plus, you're often in multiple countries on cruises and SIM cards often aren't compatible with all of them. But a wifi hotspot will be ready to use wherever there is cell service because that's how it connects. And we love our Skyroam for that purpose.

Also check out:

• Unique Ocean Art for Your Home so You Will Always be near the Sea
• Topsail Steamer Review: Seafood Steamer Pots that Ship Overnight for Free
• OMEGA Sailing Bracelet Review: Premium Accessory for Everyday Wear

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Perfect Gifts for Cruisers: 2022 Edition

• By Behan Gifford
• November 30, 2022

It can be hard to know what to get a cruiser for the holidays, especially during the dreaming and planning years. Here’s our annual gift guide for active and wanna-go cruisers.

For the gonna-go dreamer

Look for books that are practical and inspirational. Books help gonna-go cruisers imagine and prepare for the future. We’re fans of Jimmy Cornell’s World Cruising Routes and his companion book, World Cruising Destinations . The former is a shortcut to pilot chart planning; reviewing a recent edition the latter impressed me with destination accuracy. Look for more ideas in our extended list of books for cruisers , which includes everything from inspirational memoirs to practical books we use aboard.

For boats with kids

They’ll love a water carpet. It’s like a lily pad behind the boat. It does take space to stow, but gets rave reviews for facilitating good times. The 6-by-18-foot mat can sometimes be found on sale for less than the 9-by-5-foot version. For more ideas, see our list of kid boat gift ideas in this post a couple of years ago.

For crew who are counting down

Get them downsizing guidance. We organized our favorite tips for downsizing a few months ago. Our favorite for making it happen without tears is Melody DeCroce’s online course, Downsizing for Life Afloat.  The digitizing service Legacybox is another one of our faves for downsizing. We also have a series of posts called What Do You Need (to go cruising)? . This links to the first post in the series .

For the DIY rigger

Spoiler alert: every cruiser with faraway intentions needs to be their own rigger. My husband is often found with a loupe in his hand checking out rigging and other metal bits. A loupe, which is basically a small magnifier, is required because eyeballs aren’t enough to see the state of metal. This under-$20 model hangs neatly from a finger when aloft . 

For the sundowner siren

Cruising can be very social, and we love gathering in the cockpit with friends to find out if today’s the day we’ll see a green flash. When you visit another boat for sundowners, you bring your own glassware and beverages. So, get your favorite cruiser a personalized tumbler . This gift is a winner, no matter whether it will be filled with iced coffee, fizzy water or a margarita. It’s also hard to beat solar-powered LED string lights from MPowerd . The graduating brightness lets you create the perfect evening ambience. Our 2018 gift guide was all about ideas for the social side of cruising .

For the safety ace

A smarter personal locator beacon and VHF radio just took prizes at the marine industry show METS in the Netherlands. We like Icom’s M510 VHF radio , which can pairs with three mobile devices (iOS or Android) as instant remotes. The top award went to a product still awaiting U.S. regulatory approval: Ocean Signal’s PLB3. This slim personal locator beacon transmits both AIS and satellite pings, as does ACR’s (also awaiting approval) new GlobalFix V5 EPIRB . Talk about an awesome safety boost by signaling both ways.

For the galley maven

The pressure cooker is an MVP on board. Instant Pot and other electric pressure cookers add convenience to functionality. We compared models here.  Before cruising, we purchased a larger Kuhn Rikon  to try out at home and wondered how we ever lived without one. Last year, I treated myself to an Instant Pot Max  (because, canning!) and will never look back. Gift recipients might also like our favorite instant pot (and pressure cooker) recipes gathered from a range of cruisers. Runner-up gift idea: The handful of folks I know who have used a LeKue bread maker insist it has transformed breadmaking aboard. The silicon bowl is used for mixing, rising and baking. Might be what I treat myself to this year.

For the Shutterbug

An underwater dome lens is the best $50 spent on camera equipment for cruising : a bit of kit that gets those super cool split shots where you can see above and below the water. 

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73 Best Travel Gifts for Book Lovers, Beauty Gurus, & Everyone Else on Your List

By Madison Flager and Paris Wilson

When it comes to choosing the best travel gifts, there are many routes to take: You can get your go-to vacation companion something practical that they'll reach for every time they take out their carry-on. Or, you can gift something to encourage them to start planning their next trip (and hopefully invite you along). There are also gifts that bring travel to them, making the space between adventures feel a bit more like a vacation, and experience gifts to make their next trip even more exciting. No matter the occasion, or the traveler, we've rounded up nearly 60 travel gifts from brands we love, so you can find something for each person on your list.

For even more specific gift guides, be sure to check out all our recommended gifts for travelers, which we've gathered for you here . And keep an eye on the calendar—the sooner the better if you're shipping presents straight to a giftee, or mailing to yourself to wrap. Standard free shipping deadlines end as early as December 13 for delivery by Christmas, so aim to order by that date if you're hoping to avoid shipping costs.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Lunya washable silk pajama set

Washable silk pajamas? Say no more. For the traveler who could use a little luxury in their life, Lunya's matching set—which we've raved about time and time again—will get plenty of use at home and on vacation.

Dreamegg White Noise Machine

This sound machine fits into the palm of a hand and weighs less than five ounces. It's perfect for travelers with small children or who find it hard to fall sleep in new environments. It has a rechargeable USB battery, features 21 different sounds, and has an easy-to-use timer setting.

Ashya Passport Bolo

For those who like to travel light, the Passport Bolo from Ashya is an adjustable, hand stitched leather passport necklace made with 14K gold-plated hardware. It can be worn as across the chest like a slingbag or around the neck like a lanyard. Use it to hold important cards while traveling or as an everyday wallet .

Ember Travel Mug 2

The charge on this mug can last up to three hours, but lasts all day when combined with the charging coaster. When left unattended, it automatically goes into sleep mode, but can keep the cup warm for up to two hours with the help of its thermal hardware.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

Jessica Puckett

Sleepy Ride Airplane Footrest

We could wax poetic about what our office has dubbed “the foot hammock,” but it all comes down to this : for those roughly 5'7" and under, it'll transform your in-flight economy experience. Sling it around your tray table and enjoy stretching out your legs (or curling up to sleep) throughout your next flight.

Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set

This Ralph Lauren travel set is a travel accessory you'll use again and again. It comes with a large shawl that can be used as a blanket, a small pillow, and a soft eye mask—all made from cashmere.

Zendure mini portable charger

For frequent travelers, a small, lightweight portable charger is truly a must-have. The Supermini portable power bank is extremely slim, durable, and is compatible with USB-A, USB, and USB-C ports.

Rifle Paper Co. AirTag luggage tag

If your giftee has gotten on the AirTag train this year, they’ll appreciate this handy luggage tag, designed to hold said tag and look aesthetically pleasing while doing so. The garden party print will add a Bridgerton-meets-cottagecore vibe to their suitcase, and the AirTag compartment is detachable, making it even more versatile.

Bellroy Tech Kit

Every organized traveler needs a good tech kit. We like Bellroy's for its many pockets and loops that will fit any size cord and offer a safe place to stash AirPods, portable chargers, and work-from-anywhere accessories like a mouse or Wi-Fi extender.

Dagne Dover Seoul Dopp kit

Ahead of the holidays, Dagne Dover released a new slate of items in its eco-friendlier collection. The Seoul Dopp kit, much like the rest of the collection, is made from 100 percent recycled polyester while the interior is made from a spill-proof recycled poly lining.

Canada Goose Trillium Parka Heritage

For winter travel, a thick, packable coat is a necessity. The Canada Goose Trillium parka is built for extreme cold but is by no means bulky, and actually has a slimming effect. It has a chin guard to protect the neck from cold air, interior pockets, and a hoodie with removable trims, giving your giftee some style options.

Comrad Knee High Ombre compression socks

Socks have a reputation as a boring gift option, but for travelers, these ones are an actually thoughtful pick. Comrad is known for bringing comfort and style to the world of compression socks, which are designed to help regulate swelling and keep the blood pumping through the legs. They're perfect for long flights, road trips, or just walking around sightseeing.

AeroPress coffee maker

The AeroPress coffee and espresso maker is perfect for coffee lovers who can't go without their morning cup. It's durable, shatter-proof, and fits compactly into a backpack . It's easy to use and easier to clean, making it a must-have for travelers.

Pak Réve The Wilder Bundle

Trying to make it out of the house as a new parent can be stressful to stay the least. The Wilder Bundle, designed by Traveler contributor Jordi Lippe-McGraw , can fit everything you need and more. On the exterior, we see a full-size backpack, but its included attachments—a mini backpack, wristlet, and insulated lunchbox—easily snap off to lighten your load when you don't need them, or to be used separately.

Parks by Brian Kelley

From intricately drawn brochures and eye-catching advertisements emerges a collection of over 400 designs produced by the United States National Park Service over the last century, compiled into a giftable portfolio by photographer Brian Kelley.

Shinola The Canfield Sport

The Shinola Canfield Sport watch is a timeless piece of jewelry that can withstand whatever life throws at it. It features a stainless steel outer case and bracelet with a gunmetal finish making it extremely durable. Its sportier look is perfect for casual wear but the black finishing makes it easy to dress up.

Filson x Chris Stapleton Traveller Bag

Country music star Chris Stapleton recently collaborated with Filson on the Traveller collection that features both clothing and travel gear. One of the standout pieces is the rereleased archived duffel. The Traveller Outfitter Bag is one of Stapleton’s favorites and we understand why: It has an adjustable shoulder strap, a large main compartment for a few days' worth of clothing, and a comfortable leather grip handle. The leather on the handle won’t transfer any color and with each wear, the leather gets softer.

Browit silk sleeping bag

This silk sleeping bag sack gives a subtle glamping touch to any camping trip. The sleeping bag liner can be put into a sleeping bag for added comfort, or placed on top of a blow-up mattress or even a hotel bed. It comes with a drawstring bag that makes it easy to store and pack.

Simo Solis Portable Hotspot

When it comes to working outside of your home, we all know how unstable Wi-Fi can be. Instead of struggling through Zoom meetings on an Airbnb’s outdated router or a hotel on a crowded line, invest in your own hotspot. This one has a better bandwidth than the one you find on your phone, lasts longer, and won't run down your phone battery.

Collapsible Food Tent

This is an ideal gift for those who love to host outdoor get-togethers. Each tent is handwoven with long-lasting sinamay abaca fiber. It can easily be placed over trays, bowls, plates, and cups to keep bugs out of the food.

Béis The Expandable Pouch

Versatile is the best way to describe The Expandable Pouch from Béis. It transforms from a fanny pack into a sleek, lightweight backpack, with plenty of space to fit must-haves for a whole day. It's great for trips with packed itineraries, and when you find yourself picking up items throughout the day.

Aman x 111Skin nourishing gold algae eye mask

Perfect for the skincare routine queens on your list, these eye masks blend the expertise of Aman and 111Skin. A set comes with eight Nourishing Gold Algae Eye Masks to hydrate and brighten the under-eye area. They’ll come in handy after long-haul flights, or just the post-holiday drive home.

Té Company Tea set

The Formosa tea set is a perfect starter bundle for those looking to expand their tea palate. It has seven different blends and includes detailed instructions on the tea-making process to guide your giftee toward the perfect cup.

Four Seasons velvet slippers

Slippers are a no-fail gift option for pretty much anyone on your list, and this velvet style from Four Seasons will bring a touch of luxury to their day. The elastic back makes them easy to slip on and off, and the recycled rubber sole adds some durability to them.

Oui The People Body Renewal set

Oui The People has been bringing some heat to the skincare world, with formulas that produce an unmatched glow. The brand's holy trinity includes the new Clean Slate body wash, Cheat Sheet body exfoliant, and Featherweight body oil. The trio work together to achieve visibly smoother, brighter, and more hydrated skin.

Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Headphones

Noise-canceling headphones can improve any journey, whether they're blocking out a snoring plane neighbor or immersing you in movie after movie on a long car ride. This popular option from Sony offers multi-device Bluetooth pairing, so you can connect to two devices at once and switch between them seamlessly.

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon’s best-selling, waterproof Kindle Paperwhite is perfect for bookworm travelers—its battery lasts for weeks, it can hold more than 2,000 e-books, and the adjustable warm lighting emulates actual book pages.

Verloop trio colorblock knit touchscreen gloves

Add some fun to a practical gift with these colorblock touchscreen gloves from Verloop. The nano-metallic knit fingertips allow you to keep using your phone without sacrificing warmth—ideal for winter travel, especially on days when you’re relying on Google Maps to get around.

Malin + Goetz Essential Starter Kit

This is the ideal stocking stuffer for the traveler who is always squirreling away shampoo and body wash minis from hotels. They'll be treated to a full swath of toiletries—face cleanser and moisturizer, body wash and lotion, shampoo, and conditioner—all with the delicious scents Malin + Goetz is known for.

Pi7 S2 Wireless earbuds

Bowers & Wilkins have created an industry first: a wireless audio retransmission case, so you no longer have to worry about swapping out your headphones on the plane to enjoy in-flight entertainment. Simply plug each end of the included audio cable into the case and seatback console for up to five hours of crystal clear audio.

Shinola denim duffle

The denim duffel is Shinola Detroit's spin on an American classic. It's made from American denim and reimagines the brand's traditional cotton duffel with a more elevated flare. Accompanied by a striped band, you can carry it as a crossbody, over the shoulder, or opt to tuck the strap in and use the elegant arched handles.

Patagonia Provisions roasted garlic mackerel

Upgrade your outdoorsy traveler's camping meals with anything from Patagonia Provisions. We're fans of the brand's tinned fish , and especially this tender, garlicky mackerel. A single can makes a great stocking stuffer, but if you're shopping for a full-on seafood lover, splurge on the Tinned Seafood Sampler Box .

Lyft Gift Card

Calling Lyfts while traveling can quickly add up; a gift card helps take the pressure off any back and forth over whether a car is worth it or not, making it a great gift for younger travelers heading out on group trips or gap years. Another perk: Lyft's partnership with Delta means SkyMiles members can earn miles with each ride.

Patagonia Ultralight Black Hole mini hip pack

We love a good fanny pack here at Traveler , and Patagonia's is ideal for any frequent hikers (or bikers) on your gift list. Given its size—it stuffs into its own small pocket when not in use—and light weight (3.5 ounces), it's great to throw into your suitcase to use on city trips, too.

Apollo Walker picnic backpack bag

This all-in-one picnic fits comfortably inside a backpack and includes everything one could imagine: a set of stainless steel knives, forks, spoons, dinner plates, napkins, and wine glasses, just to name a few. As the cherry on top, it comes with a waterproof blanket.

Oak Essentials Mini Routine

Fancy skincare products are always welcome, especially when they come in a travel-size set that means you don’t have to rely on whatever’s in the hotel or Airbnb. This set, which comes with complimentary gift-wrapping, comes with the five products that make up Oak Essentials’ routine: a cleansing balm, balancing mist, ritual oil, moisture rich balm, and restorative mask.

Yellowstone National Park magnet

Like Parks Project , another  Traveler -favorite company for gifts for outdoorsy pals, The Landmark Project creates national park-themed gear that raises money to preserve outdoor spaces. These national park magnets make great stocking stuffers, and if you purchase something from the  Smokey Bear collection , 10 percent will go to the US Forest Service. 

Away The Bigger Carry-On

When it comes to luggage, Away is a solid choice—you can find this bag and many other Away styles in the closets of many a Traveler editor. Treat the graduate, new traveler, or family member in need of a suitcase upgrade to this larger-than-average carry-on.

Amalfi Coast coffee table book

Perfect for the traveler who just moved, or is in the middle of redecorating, this Assouline coffee table book will add a splash of color to any living room. Inside, there is plenty of eye candy and details on the 13 towns that comprise the Amalfi Coast.

Cadence The Bestsellers

These toiletry travel bottles have changed the game when it comes to bringing your own products with you—they are entirely leak-proof, and are magnetized, making them snap together to minimize they space they take up in your Dopp kit and the hotel shower.

Carbone print

Created by a former New Yorker editor, All the Restaurants offers limited-edition, hand-drawn sketches of iconic restaurants in New York, London, Paris, and Napa Valley. Order one to commemorate a special meal with a loved one, or one you’re still dreaming of visiting together.

1,000 Perfect Weekends: Great Getaways Around the Globe

For the traveler who doesn't know where to go next, this National Geographic book will give them plenty of inspiration. It is filled with 36- to 72-hour weekend guides to places around the world, with itineraries meant to tack onto existing trips or use as a weekend getaway from home (tags let readers know what hub the destination is within six hours of). Inside, you'll find ideas for beachy escapes, nature parks, food and wine-focused trips, even pet-friendly vacations. Also mixed in: helpful insights like wheelchair-friendly beaches to visit in the U.S.

Allbirds Tree Dasher

Traveler readers went wild for Allbirds' first running shoe when it debuted in 2020 , and again when a higher-ankle version was released last year. Share the wealth of comfortable kicks this holiday season—they come in nearly a dozen colors, are lightweight and pack down well, and look sufficiently non-sporty enough to wear throughout a trip, not just while exercising. (For those who live in cold-weather climates, the newer Wool Dasher Mizzles are a good option, too.)

Noshinku refillable pocket hand sanitizer (three-pack)

A practical, but extremely useful travel accessory: hand sanitizer. Noshinku gets bonus points for its slim profile, aesthetically pleasing colors, and refillable design. File this under gifts that will most definitely be used.

1Mii Bluetooth 5.0 adapter

Sometimes, the best gifts are the most practical. This pocket-size Bluetooth transmitter lets you watch in-flight entertainment with your AirPods, or any other cordless headphone you may use. Never stress about forgetting that second pair of earbuds again.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

A favorite of Traveler editor Meaghan Kenny, this popular lip balm makes for another great stocking stuffer or gift set inclusion. Use it at bedtime, in the morning, or mid-flight to hydrate dry, flaky lips.

Nodpod eye mask

An eye mask is a light sleeper's travel essential, and Nodpod took things up a notch by creating a weighted version. Best for long-haul flights where you'll be in a lay-flat seat, or to use in bed—the mask can be secured with its pull-through slit, but is best used simply draped over your eyes—it adds a bit of weight to your eyes, promoting a deeper, more restful sleep.

Alex Mill The Perfect Weekday Tote

Every traveler needs a solid tote to bring on road trips and use as a personal item. This Alex Mill bag gets the job done and has a classic look they won't tire of. It fits up to a 13” laptop, plus all the other essentials: phone, keys, wallet, water bottle, snacks, the works.

Lay-n-Go drawstring toiletry bag

Travelers who are also regulars at Sephora or Ulta will appreciate this cool makeup bag : Instead of having to dump out all your products to find what you're looking for, the bag opens up by way of drawstrings, and can be laid out as a circle on any surface, allowing every product to be on display.

Mountain Valley Train Puzzle

The 1,000-piece puzzle, made out of other recycled puzzle boards, is based on the artwork of Lars Stewart. This super-detailed piece captures a scenic ride through the Arizona desert with illustrations of wildlife, maps, recognizable travel gear, and more.

Ceremonia The Scalp Power-Duo

Ceremonia is a favorite of many Traveler editors, and this haircare set will turn any giftee into a fan. It comes with a scalp massager and scalp remedy oil—use the former to distribute the latter evenly and gently exfoliate the scalp.

Behind the Bar: 50 Cocktail Recipes from the World's Most Iconic Hotels by Alia Akkam

Written by Traveler contributor Alia Akkam , Behind the Bar takes readers to 50 iconic hotel bars around the world, offering recipes and historical tidbits from each. Perfect for the consummate host in your friend group, they'll have a good time recreating classics and discovering new cocktails from home.

Parachute Waffle Robe

A cozy robe is always a winner in our book, and Parachute makes some of the best. This classic waffle robe will remind them of days spend luxuriating at the hotel spa.

Papier travel notebook

You're either a journal person or you're not, but if you are, you know you can never have too many notebooks on hand. This pretty Papier pad will be a welcome addition to the stack, and is customizable: choose lined, plain, or dotted sheets, and either a hard or soft cover.

Go Neck Pillow

Ostrichpillow makes a whole bunch of nap-friendly designs , but we're partial to the classic Go Neck pillow for long-haul flights or lengthy road trips. It is made with a supportive (and compressive) memory foam, and has a Velcro close for an easily adjustable fit. Plus, it comes with a carrying case.

Béis The Weekender Bag

A real text I got from a friend after writing about this Béis weekender : “BÉIS CONVERT FOREVER. You did not oversell this. Truly a miracle.” It has plenty of room inside for clothes, accessories, and toiletries, and a bottom compartment for shoes, dirty clothes, or anything else you want to keep separate.

Welly Adventure Kit

Slip this into the stocking of any thrill-seeking , accident-prone traveler. It comes with all the essentials—more than 50 bandages, tape, butterfly strips, antibiotic packets, hydrocortisone packets, Ibuprofen—in a compact, easy-to-stash kit.

Mzoo contoured sleep mask

A good sleep mask is a travel essential for overnight flights. This one is made of memory foam and has raised sections over your eyeballs for added comfort, but lies flat around the nose and eyebrows to thoroughly block out light.

Ugg Scuffita slide slipper

Shopping for a homebody? Consider these shearling-lined Ugg slippers, made for lounging around the house (or hotel, or Airbnb) in peak comfort and style.

Upoy charging station

This multi-port charging station is a gift for the whole family—or for one very tech-obsessed traveler who need to juice up a phone, AirPods, smart watch, and Kindle all at once.

Mansur Gavriel Soft Lady Bag

A re-imagination of Mansur Gavriel's popular Lady Bag, the Soft Lady Bag was released to celebrate the original's five-year anniversary. It's softer and slouchier than its predecessor, meaning it'll pack down better in your suitcase. With room for daily essentials (a phone, wallet, keys, earphones, and even an iPad) and interior compartments to keep you organized, it's a polished crossbody you'll use for years to come.

Paravel Packing Cube Quad (set of four)

Paravel's packing cubes—which helped turn Traveler editor Lale Arikoglu into a more organized packer —are a practical gift any traveler will appreciate. They now come in a set of four, with two small cubes, a medium, and a large; for an extra touch, have them personalized with your giftee's initials.

Diptyque Orphéon Eau de Parfum

Diptyque candles are always a welcome gift, but for something a little more unique, go for one of the brand's eau de parfums. This one was formulated to recreate the scent of a ’60s Parisian bar—the woody scent smells great spritzed around the home.

Airbnb gift card

Here at Traveler, we're always on the hunt for the coolest, coziest Airbnbs, whether we're looking for a romantic cabin getaway , a house with a pool , or one that can brighten up our mood with the sheer amount of color found within its four walls. For the travelers in your life who are also keen on staying in a rental, Airbnb gift cards can be purchased in amounts from $25 up to $500, so you can chip in (or cover) their next stay.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen

Arguably the most popular sunscreen amongst Traveler editors, this gel-like face SPF blends in easily, leaves no white cast, and feels great on your skin. It'll be a welcome addition to any stocking stuffer or gift set.

Polaroid Hi·Print 2x3 Pocket Photo Printer

Now that we all walk around with high-quality cameras in our pocket, fewer of our photos actually make it to print. This pocket-size printer from Polaroid spits out vibrant 2"x3" photos, so you can instantly hand over that new family portrait to grandma or share physical photos with a travel companion. 

Sabah slip-ons

Comfortable shoes are a hot topic among travelers and these Sabah slip-ons have articles director Lale Arikoglu's stamp of approval . Handmade in Turkey, they come in a range of colors and are long-lasting: “After six years of ownership, my pair is completely intact with the exception of the color, which is slightly fading in a way that, if anything, has only made them look better,” Arikoglu says.

Nixon Wizard Stick Beverage Sling

This is a niche gift, but there's someone on your list who will absolutely love it. Nixon's insulated beverage sling fits six cans at once; they can bring it along to picnics, camping trips, tailgates, or hikes to keep drinks cold and avoid the clunkiness of a tote bag or backpack.

Hinoki Wood Rice Ball Mold

There are food gifts for friends who want a meal or snack that's nearly ready to go right out of the box. Then, there are gifts that require some effort. For the home chef who's looking to expand their cooking skills, gift a new kitchen tool like this rice ball mold, which they can use to shape homemade onigiri.

Gastro Obscura: A Food Adventurer's Guide

Another great coffee table book, Atlas Obscura's new tome is made for travelers who plan their trips around food. Inside, readers will find a  guide to food experiences around the world, with chapters on every continent (including Antarctica!), as well as features on foodies like Tom Carvel, events like the Chicago World Fair,  and “how to try it” tips. Just a few noteworthy inclusions: Jeju Island's free-diving sea women in South Korea, the world's largest edible mushroom in Zambia, and the great fruitcake toss in Colorado.

The Carried Away Convertible Backpack

Sarah Jessica Parker collaborated with Samsonite on this versatile bag, which has since sold out multiple times. It's a jack-of-all-trades—wear it as a backpack, carry it as a tote, or sling it over your shoulder. It comes with a removable clutch and an extra strap to turn the smaller bag into a cross-body. Otherwise, it has all the bells and whistles you'd expect in a travel backpack : luggage sleeve, water bottle pocket, laptop slot, etc.

Bokksu snack box subscription

There is no shortage of subscription boxes out there, but we're particularly fond of the edible ones. Bokksu, a Japanese snack service that recently launched an online Asian grocery store , sends recipients an assortment of sweet and savory snacks, candies, and teas on a monthly basis, sourced from small, family-run businesses in Japan.

Artifact Uprising Color Series Photo Book

Commemorate a special trip with a photo book from Artifact Uprising. Whether it's your first big trip this year or one taken decades ago, your loved ones will appreciate the thought that goes into picking out your favorite memories together.

53 Best Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers 2024

Ideas for christmas, birthdays, and first-time cruises.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a family member or friend who loves cruising or is just a plain ol’ cruise addict, you’re in the right place. Lots of gift ideas for cruisers to take on their next cruise vacation.

As someone who has taken several cruises, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find a gift that’s both practical and enjoyable. That’s why I’ve put together these best cruise gift ideas for any avid cruiser, which include ideas for Christmas, birthdays, and even first-time cruises.

From practical items that will make their trips more comfortable to fun and creative goodies that will bring a smile to their faces, these gift ideas for cruisers will undoubtedly be cherished.

My Top 3 Picks: Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Power Strip ✔️ Three Outlets ✔️ Four USB Ports ✔️Five ft Braided Extension Cord

Waterproof Phone Case ✔️ iPhone and Galaxy ✔️ 2 Pack

Packing Cubes ✔️ 8 Piece Set ✔️ Multiple colors

Practical gift ideas for cruisers

For the cruiser in your life, practical gifts can make a big difference in their sailing experience. From essential safety gear to helpful navigation tools, there are gift ideas for cruisers for every budget and skill level that will help them set sail with confidence.

1. Night light or Bathroom Light

A night light or bathroom light can make a world of difference when cruising. Whether used as an inviting beacon in the dark cabin or for late-night trips to the restroom, these lights are essential on every cruise. Night lights and bathroom lights also come in a variety of styles, so you can find one that matches your cruiser’s personality perfectly.

Battery-operated is best for the bathroom as there are no plugs in most cruise room bathrooms.

🎁 Buy your Night Light

2. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a must-have item for cruisers as they often have long days at sea. A well-made stainless steel or insulated water bottle will keep drinks cold and prevent spills. Plus, it’ll come in handy on shore excursions too!

🎁 Buy your Reusable Water Bottle

3. Portable Battery Operated Fan

A small fan is another great gift idea for cruisers. This inexpensive item offers a simple and effective way to cool down a cabin if it gets too hot, while also providing white noise to help with sleep. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to pack, so your cruiser won’t have to worry about lugging it around.

🎁 Buy your Portable Battery Operated Fan

4. Reusable Insulated Cup

Reusable insulated cups are perfect for keeping drinks cooler on cruises, especially if the provided cups on the ship are small. A good reusable cup will keep liquids cold with a tight-fitting lid that won’t leak. Plus, it’s a great way to be eco-friendly and reduce plastic waste while traveling. Reusable cups come in all shapes and sizes, so you can even find one with a design that matches your cruiser’s style.

🎁 Buy Your Reusable Insulated Cup

5. Wine Tumbler

A cruise wine tumbler is the perfect way for cruisers to enjoy a glass of wine in comfort and style. These stainless steel tumblers are insulated to keep wine and other beverages at the perfect temperature. Plus, they come with a lid and shatter-proof design so you don’t have to worry about spills on your cruise. Personalize it with their name or special message for an extra special touch!

🎁 Buy Your Wine Tumbler

6. Reusable Straws

Reusable straws are a must-have for cruisers who don’t like using candy or edible straws. The gooey texture of these candy straws can turn many cruisers off, but with a reusable one, they won’t have to worry about that issue.

🎁 Buy Your Reusable Straws

7. Over the Door Shoe Rack

An over-the-door shoe rack is a great gift for cruisers who need more storage space. The rack hangs over any door, giving the cruiser extra space to store their shoes, hats, or other items without taking up too much room. Not only does it look neat and tidy in a cabin, but it also helps keep things organized while on board. Plus, it’s easy to pack.

🎁 Buy Your Over the Door Shoe Rack

8. Cruise Lanyard

A lanyard is a great gift for cruisers to hold their sail and sign card. It makes it easy to keep track of the card throughout the cruise, so it can be used for any purchases or activities on board. With a lanyard, there’s no need to worry about misplacing the card or having it slip into an unfamiliar pocket. Also makes it easy to get off and on the ship at destination ports.

🎁 Buy Your Lanyard

9. Magnetics

Magnets make a great gift for cruisers who want to add some home decor to their cabin. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack, and you can use them to hang things up on the walls or doors of your cabin. Plus, since most ships have metal walls, ceilings, and doors, magnets provide a secure way to hang up items without the need for nails or hooks.

🎁 Buy Your Magnetics

10. Magnetic Hooks

Magnetic hooks are an excellent gift for cruisers who need extra storage options in their cabin. These small and lightweight hooks can be attached to any metal surface, making it easy to hang clothes or other items without the need for nails or screws.

Not only do they provide extra storage space, but since most cruise ships have metal walls, ceilings, and doors, magnetic hooks can be used in a variety of places to hang items securely. It’s an excellent way to make sure your belongings stay safe and secure while on board.

🎁 Buy Your Magnetic Hooks

11. Travel Organizer – Documents

Cruisers know how important it is to stay organized while on a trip. That’s why a travel organizer is a must-have item for any cruise lover. It will help them keep their passport, travel documents, and other essentials organized in one spot, making it easy to find what they need. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit in their carry-on bag.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Organizer

12. Travel Organizer – Seat Pack

I recently purchased a seat pack organizer for my upcoming road trip. It’s an amazing product because it allows me to store all the items, like tablets, cords, and accessories I need for my journey conveniently in one place. Not only does it keep things neat and organized, but it also keeps them easily accessible so I don’t have to dig around looking for what I need when I’m on the go. I love it! It’s a must-have for any plane or road trip.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Seat Organizer

13. Travel Blanket

A travel blanket is a must-have item for any cruiser. Not only will it keep you warm and cozy on cool nights, but it can also be used as a picnic blanket or beach towel. Travel blankets are lightweight and highly portable, making them ideal for packing in carry-on luggage.

They come in different materials such as cotton, fleece, and microfiber, so you can choose the perfect one for your cruise lover.

🎁 Buy Your Trav e l Blanket

Cruise Line or Cruise Gift Cards-Specific Gift Ideas

14. cruise gift cards.

Gifting cruise line or cruise-specific gift cards is a great way to show your love for the cruiser in your life. Cruise lines such as Carnival , Royal Caribbean , Princess Cruises , and Norwegian Cruise Line offer gift cards that can be used towards the cost of their future cruises, excursions, and onboard amenities such as drinks, specialty restaurants, and wifi.

Not only are these gift cards convenient and practical, but they also provide peace of mind knowing that the cruiser can choose to use them however they like.

🎁 Discounted gift cards are available with AARP if you are a member

15. Cruise T-Shirt

A cruise t-shirt is a fun and creative gift that any cruiser will appreciate. It will allow them to show off their love for cruising, even when not on a ship. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter with fellow cruisers.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise T-Shirts

16. Cruise Hat

A cruise hat is a great fashion accessory for any cruiser. Not only will it help protect you from the sun and wind while on deck, but it can also add a bit of style to your look. Cruise hats come in different styles such as baseball caps, bucket hats, and visors. They also come in a variety of colors and designs that will fit any cruiser’s tastes.

Whether you choose a classic design or something more modern, your cruiser will be sure to love the look and feel of this thoughtful gift.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Hat

17. Cruise Jewelry

If you’re looking for something a bit more special, why not get your cruiser some cruise-inspired jewelry? From necklaces and bracelets to earrings and watches featuring classic nautical motifs such as anchors, compasses, and ship wheels, there are plenty of options available. This gift will be a reminder of their love for the sea even when they can’t cruise!

🎁 Buy Cruise Jewelry

18. Cruise Cabin Door Decorations

Cruise cabin door decorations are a great way to show off your cruiser’s style while also adding a touch of personality to their stateroom. These decorations come in a variety of styles, from classic nautical themes to unique and funky designs. Not only will they make the cabin feel more like home, but they can also help identify it among crowded corridors.

Plus, they’re sure to bring a smile every time your cruiser enters their room. So give them the gift of style with some cruise cabin door decor today!

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Cabin Door Decorations

19. Duck and Duck Tags

Ducks are a great way for cruisers to make memories throughout their trip. Cruisers hide these ducks around the ship, either in public areas or inside cabins, for other travelers to find. The tags that come with the ducks include information like a website address or a message so those who find them can enter their experience on an online form.

You can go to the original Cruising Ducks Facebook group and read about the story behind the ducks.

This fun activity encourages exploration of the cruise ship and helps create memorable experiences with family and friends. Plus, duck tags are a wonderful keepsake to bring back home from the trip, as they will always remind your cruiser of their cruise adventures!

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Ducks with Tags

20. Cruise Count Down Board

The perfect gift for any cruise lover is a cruise countdown board! This adorable and practical memento will help your cruiser keep track of the days leading up to the big voyage.

Not only does it offer an easy way to mark off each day until the departure date, but it also serves as a fun reminder of all the excitement that awaits them on their cruise. So get them this special gift as they start counting down the days until their ship sets sail.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Count Down Board

21. Cruise-Themed Gift Baskets

Cruise-themed gift baskets are fun and creative gifts for cruisers. These usually include items that a cruiser may need during their vacation such as snacks, sunscreen, lotion, chapstick, and bug spray.

You can even customize the basket to match the cruise line or destination that your cruiser is visiting! Cruise-themed gift baskets make great gifts for those who love spending time on the open seas.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise-Themed Gift Basket

Personal Care Gift Ideas

22. hair conditioner.

A hair conditioner is a great gift for any cruiser! It will help keep their hair healthy and look great during the trip, especially in the salty sea air. Shampoo and body wash are provided on most cruise lines but not hair conditioner.

So, giving them a bottle of quality hair conditioner can be a real lifesaver! It’s also lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great addition to any carry-on luggage.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Size Hair Conditioner

23. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Reef-safe sunscreen is another great gift for any cruiser! It’s important to be mindful of protecting yourself from sunburns while on a cruise, so gifting this type of sunscreen will help give them peace of mind.

Reef-safe sunscreen works just like regular sunscreen but it doesn’t contain any chemicals that can harm coral reefs and other marine life. That means it’s not only better for them, but also the environment!

🎁 Buy Your Reef Safe Sunscreen

24. Laundry Bag

A laundry bag is also a great gift for any cruiser! It will make washing and carrying clothes during their cruise much easier. Not all ships have washers and dryers onboard, so if you plan to do some hand-washing while on the ship, having a dedicated bag for your clothes can help keep them organized.

Plus, these bags are lightweight and easy to store, so they won’t take up too much space in your luggage. If you want to wash clothes while on a cruise it’s very easy to tote them to the laundry facilities!

🎁 Buy Your Laundry Bag

25. Laundry Detergent Sheets

Laundry detergent sheets are a great gift idea for cruisers. These compact and lightweight sheets dissolve quickly in the wash, leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean. In addition, they make it easy to measure out just the right amount of detergent needed for each load.

🎁 Buy Your Laundry Detergent Sheets

26. Fabric Softener Sheets

Fabric softener sheets are another great gift for cruisers. They make washing and drying clothes on a cruise much more comfortable. These small but mighty sheets reduce static cling, keep your clothes looking and feeling softer, and leave them smelling clean and fresh.

They also help to reduce wrinkles in shirts and dresses, making it easier to stay looking sharp while cruising!

🎁 Buy Your Fabric Softener Sheets

27. Travel-Sized Essentials Package

Travel-sized essentials make great gifts for cruisers. They help to keep all of your must-have items together in one place – no more searching through bags or packing cubes for the item you need! These packages may include sunscreen, travel-sized toiletries, motion sickness remedies, and conditioner.

Having these items readily available makes it easier for travelers to stay comfortable and protected while onboard a ship. This is especially beneficial for travelers who are prone to seasickness or skin sensitivity due to sun exposure.

The convenience of having all these items in one bag also makes life easier when going through security, as they all fit into one container!

🎁 Buy a Man’s Travel-Sized Essentials Package

🎁 Buy a Woman’s Travel-Sized Essentials Package

28. Sea-Bands

Sea-Bands are another great gift for cruisers. These acupressure wristbands help to prevent seasickness and motion sickness by providing pressure on the Nei-Kuan point. They offer a non-drowsy, drug-free relief from nausea, dizziness, and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Seabands are adjustable, comfortable to wear, and reusable. Other sea-sickness remedies that are great for cruisers include ginger capsules, patches, antihistamines, and scopolamine tablets. All of these options can help travelers enjoy their trip without the worry of feeling unwell due to motion sickness.

🎁 Buy Your Sea-Bands

29. Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray

With tight quarters on a cruise ship, you may want to have Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray. It leaves your cabin bathroom smelling fresh and clean. Simply spray the water in the bowl with Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray before using the toilet to prevent odors before they begin.

🎁 Buy Your Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toliet Spray

Water Proof for Beach Destinations or Rainy Days

30. Waterproof Phone Pouch Case

A waterproof phone case is a must-have for a cruise enthusiast who loves snorkeling, kayaking, or other water activities. It will keep their phone dry and protected from water damage while they’re enjoying the ocean.

🎁 Buy 2 Pack of Waterproof Phone Case

31. Waterproof Belt Pack

A waterproof belt pack is a great gift for cruisers that will protect their belongings from rain, sea spray, or sand. This lightweight bag is perfect for use during activities such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.

It features an adjustable waistband which makes it comfortable to wear while at the beach or poolside. The 100% waterproof material helps to ensure that all items inside remain dry. The belt pack is great for storing phones, wallets, and other small items that are needed close at hand.

🎁 Buy Your Waterproof Pouch

32. Beach Towel Clips

Beach towel clips are a practical gift for any cruiser. They allow cruisers to keep their towels in place on windy days, ensuring they don’t blow away. They’re also great for securing a towel to a lounge chair, so it doesn’t slip off.

🎁 Buy Your Beach Towel Clips

33. Waterproof Dry Bag

A waterproof dry bag is the perfect gift for a cruiser that needs to keep their items protected from water. This lightweight and durable bag features a roll-top closure system which is designed to keep all of its contents dry even when exposed to rain, ocean spray, or other forms of moisture.

It’s also great for use in swimming pools or hot tubs, as its contents stay completely dry no matter how much it is submerged. This bag is perfect for carrying phones, wallets, and other small items while on a cruise or beach outing. It’s an ideal gift for any cruiser who loves water activities!

🎁 Buy Your Waterproof Dry Bag

34. Water Shoes

Water shoes are an essential item for any cruiser who loves to explore the ocean. They protect feet from sharp rocks and other underwater objects, while also providing a secure grip on slippery surfaces.

Perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming in the sea, water shoes keep your feet comfortable as you traverse both wet and dry terrain. The mesh fabric of these shoes also helps keep them light and breathable so you can traverse any terrain without worry.

🎁 Buy Your Water Shoes

Traveling or Packing Accessories

35. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great gift for any cruiser! These lightweight fabric cubes provide an easy and efficient way to organize items in luggage. They come in a variety of sizes, from small ones that can hold underwear and socks, to larger ones for shirts and pants.

Not only does this make packing easier, but it also helps cruisers keep their belongings properly organized during their trip. Packing cubes are also great for keeping items such as jewelry or electronics organized and secure while traveling. Plus, they’re easy to store in a carry-on bag so you can access them quickly and easily!

🎁 Buy Your Set of Packing Cubes

36. Compression Packing Cubes

If you want to save space as well as be organized then compression packing cubes are a great way for travelers to organize their belongings and save space in their suitcases. They are lightweight, come in various sizes, and feature 100% rip-stop nylon fabrics which make them durable and long-lasting.

The cubes have mesh panels that allow you to easily identify items without opening the cube. Compression packing cubes also help prevent wrinkles on clothes while traveling – making them an ideal tool for frequent flyers!

🎁 Buy Your Set of Compression Packing Cubes

37. Travel Wallet

Travel wallets make an excellent gift for any cruiser who likes to stay organized on their trips. These wallets have lots of compartments so you can keep all your important cards, documents, and cash in one place.

They’re also lightweight and slim – perfect for storing in a pocket or bag. Many travel wallets come with RFID-blocking technology to protect personal information from being stolen. Best of all, these wallets are available in a variety of styles, colors, and designs so the recipient can customize their wallet to suit their own taste.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Wallet

38. Backpack

A travel backpack or day pack is a great gift option for cruisers who need to carry their belongings around on the go. They come in different sizes, styles, and colors so that the recipient can find one that suits their needs. These backpacks are made of lightweight materials and have plenty of pockets and compartments for organizing items.

A well-crafted backpack will provide comfort and support when carrying items, making it the perfect travel companion. Travel backpacks can also be used to store souvenirs, cameras, and other important items while on the go.

🎁 Buy Your Day Backpack

39. Luggage Tags

Cruise luggage tag holders that are transparent are made to help identify your luggage quickly and safely deliver it to your cabin. The vibrant and eye-catching colors guarantee that your baggage will be easy to spot in the crowd, ensuring hassle-free disembarkation at your destination.

🎁 Buy Cruise Luggage Tags

40. Toiletry Bag

A toiletry bag is an essential item for cruisers who want to stay organized during their travels. Travel toiletry bags come in different sizes, styles, and materials so the recipient can find one that meets their needs.

These bags are designed with multiple compartments and sections, making it easy to store all the necessary items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and more. Toiletry bags are also waterproof and durable so they can withstand the wear and tear of travel while keeping their contents safe.

🎁 Buy Hanging Travel T oiletry Bag

41. Travel Journal

A travel journal is a thoughtful gift for a cruiser who loves to document their trips. It will allow them to jot down notes and memories, record their travel experiences, and keep track of their adventures.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Journal

42. Apple Airtags or Google Tiles

Apple Airtags and Google Tile are great gifts for cruisers who want to keep track of their luggage. These tags work with a smartphone app that allows you to locate your lost possessions with just a few taps.

The Apple Airtag and the Google Tile can be attached to any item – such as a suitcase, laptop bag, or even keys – helping make sure they don’t get left behind.

🎁 Buy Apple Airtags or Google Tile

43. Jewelry Organizer Travel

Jewelry Organizer Travel is a great gift for cruisers who want to keep their jewelry organized and secure while they travel. These bags come with different pockets, compartments, and holders that allow you to store your jewelry safely and neatly.

The organizer is also designed with multiple zipper closures so it can protect the contents from dust and dirt.

🎁 Buy Your Jewelry Organizer for Travel

44. Passport and Document Holder

Having a passport and document holder is a must for any traveler, especially cruisers. The holder will keep all of your important documents in one place so you don’t have to worry about losing them. Plus, it can help provide extra security by keeping all of your travel information safe and secure.

🎁 Buy Your Passport Holder

45. Portable Luggage Scale

A portable luggage scale is an invaluable tool when packing for a cruise. This allows travelers to check the weight of their suitcases before they arrive at the port and avoid any extra fees or hassle from airline companies.

Having a reliable and accurate scale can help ensure that travelers are able to stay within the weight limits of their suitcases and not have to pay any extra fees.

🎁 Buy Your Portable Luggage Scale

Tech gadgets and accessories for tech-savvy cruisers

46. An extension cord or non-surge-protected power strip

Non-surge-protected power strips are essential for tech-savvy cruisers who want to keep all their gadgets powered up and ready to go at any time. These power strips have multiple outlets, including USB ports, which enable you to connect multiple devices or appliances without overloading the ship’s circuit breaker.

It’s important to note that surge-protected power strips are not permitted on cruise ships.

🎁 Buy Your Power Strip

47. Portable Charger or Portable Charging Bank

A portable charger is an excellent gift for a cruiser who loves to take photos and videos. Having your phone or camera die while you’re out on an excursion can be frustrating. With a portable charger, cruisers can keep their devices charged and ready to capture every moment of their trip.

🎁 Buy Your Portable Charger

48. Phone Charging Cord

Phone charging cords are essential for travelers who depend on their cell phones and other devices while they travel. Having a spare phone charger is always a good idea when packing for a cruise, as it can be difficult to find outlets in different areas of the ship.

🎁 Buy Your iPhone Charging Cord

49. Kindle or Tablet

A Kindle or tablet is an excellent gift for a cruiser who loves to read. It’s a convenient way to hold multiple books without taking up too much space in their luggage. Plus, they can download books before the trip, so they’ll have plenty of reading material on the ship.

🎁 Buy Your Kindle

50. Travel Alarm Clock

A travel alarm clock is a great gift for cruisers who need to keep track of time and wake up on time. It’s small, lightweight, and easily fits into a suitcase or carry-on bag. Travel alarm clocks are usually equipped with multiple alarms, so they can be used to set different wake-up times for different days of the trip.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Alarm Clock

51. Binoculars

Binoculars are a great gift for cruisers who love to explore the world around them. Not only do binoculars allow you to see distant objects in greater detail, but they also help you spot wildlife and other points of interest from far away. Look for a pair that is lightweight and has an adjustable focus for the best performance.

🎁 Buy Your Binoculars

52. Headphones or Ear Pods

Headphones or Ear Pods are a must-have for cruisers who need to block out noise and enjoy their music while on the ship. A good pair of headphones helps reduce background noise, allowing them to better enjoy podcasts, audiobooks, and their favorite tunes. Look for a pair with good sound quality and a comfortable fit for best results.

I absolutely love these earbuds! They have a magnetic feature that allows you to easily connect them around your neck, ensuring they never get misplaced. Such a brilliant design!

🎁 Buy Your Wireless Headphones

A GoPro camera is the perfect gift for a cruiser who loves to capture their memories while on board. It’s small in size, rugged, and can be mounted virtually anywhere – making it easy to take high-quality photos or videos from any angle. Many models come with waterproof housing, allowing them to take stunning shots underwater as well.

I love mine because I can capture photos and videos in and out of the water!

🎁 Buy Your GoPro Camera

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ) For Gift Ideas for Cruisers

Answering common questions about the best gift ideas for cruisers can help make choosing the right gift a breeze. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding gifting cruisers:

The best gifts for cruise lovers include items such as waterproof dry bags, packing cubes, toiletry bags, cruise-themed items, and tech gadgets like portable chargers and headphones.

The amount you spend will depend on your budget and the person receiving the gift. Generally speaking, it’s wise to choose gifts that are meaningful and useful rather than extravagant or expensive.

Unique gift ideas for cruisers include items such as a personalized passport holder, a waterproof camera case, a beach bag with multiple compartments, or themed t-shirts and hats.

Yes! Personalized gifts are a great way to show your cruise lover how much you care. Consider gift ideas for cruisers like picture frames, personalized luggage tags, or even a custom-made photo book of all their cruising memories.

Great gift ideas for first-time cruisers include items such as an onboard credit card holder, a cruise line-themed t-shirt, or a fun activity book about the ship.

Yes! Items such as passport holders, packing cubes, and portable chargers are all great gift ideas for cruisers that will make preparing for the trip easier and more enjoyable.

When looking for gift ideas for cruisers, it’s important to think about the type of traveler they are. Are they beach lovers? A history buff? Adventure seeker? Taking the time to consider their interests will help you find the perfect gift that reflects their personality and love for cruising.

The Wrap-Up: Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

Giving a gift for Christmas or a cruiser’s birthday can bring extra happiness and thrill to their celebration. You may want to think about items that can make their trip more comfortable or fun, such as noise-canceling headphones, waterproof pouches, or a GoPro camera.

Choose something special from our Gift Ideas for Cruisers list that reflects their adventurous nature and love for cruising!

First-time cruisers typically need all of the essentials to make the most out of their voyage. Useful gifts include dry bags, a waterproof phone case, and a portable charger that will help them stay connected while away from home. Making sure they have everything they need for the trip is sure to ensure they have an unforgettable experience!

Giving gifts to your favorite cruiser is always fun and exciting. Whether you’re gifting for a birthday, Christmas, or even as they embark on their first cruise, thoughtful items that speak to the cruiser’s needs and interests are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Consider these gift ideas to ensure you pick the perfect present every time!

Gifting doesn’t have to be difficult and it should be an enjoyable experience for both the giver and receiver. Don’t forget also to include presents for yourself, like a waterproof dry bag or a GoPro camera, so that you can join in on the fun too!

With these gift ideas for cruisers, you’re sure to make any cruiser’s voyage even better. Whether they’ve been exploring the world’s waters for years or are just venturing out on their first cruise, you can help ensure they make the most of their adventure. Happy sailing!

Related Reading

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• Are there Jails on Cruise Ships?
• Recommended Travel Resources
• What to Do Between Hotel Checkout and Flight Departure

Melodie Rush is an avid traveler and a passionate explorer. Born in North Carolina, my journey from road trips with my parents to exploring diverse cultures across five continents has fueled my love for practical and immersive travel. Join me and Gary as we share straightforward insights, must-dos, and travel tips to make your adventures seamless and memorable. Let's explore the world with purpose!

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50 Useful Gifts for the Cruise Traveller

Gifts are always hard to think of but if you have a cruiser in the family or cruise-loving friends this is the gift guide for you with 50 useful gifts for the cruise traveller.

Here are 50 items within all price ranges that are actually useful for going on a cruise vacation.

From budget-friendly cruise gifts to the ultimate gift for any family member for this holiday season.

I spend most of the year on board a cruise ship, so I really know what is useful to have with you when on a cruise. 

This cruise gift guide will help you find the perfect gift for the cruise lover for their next cruise.

*We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

1. Packing Cubes  

Packing Cubes  are an item that every cruise passenger should use when packing their luggage, whether it be a backpack or a suitcase. They make packing easier and a lot more organized and are the perfect cruise gift idea.

2. Carry On Luggage

Carry-on luggage  is essential when joining a cruise ship as your luggage is delivered to your cabin just before the ship sails. Having Carry-On Luggage on embarkation day means you have the essentials you need.

3. Luggage

Luggage is something a cruiser will always need. There can be some great deals in the outlet section on some luggage websites, they may not be the latest designs, but fantastic quality.

4. TSA Padlocks

TSA padlocks are essential if you flying through the USA as the TSA could search your luggage at any time without you present. If your padlocks are not TSA approved the locks will be broken off and unusable again. 

5. Luggage Strap

Luggage straps are very helpful when travelling and they are a great way to make your luggage more identifiable, especially if you have a black case.

50 Best Cruise Gifts

6. luggage scales.

Luggage scales are a necessity with airlines tightening the rules on luggage allowance, so having a travel-sized scale is always handy.

7. Luggage Label 

Luggage labels are essential to identify your luggage when flying and cruising.

8. Cruise Luggage Tag

Cruise Luggage Tags protect the paper printout that you need to put on your luggage before you join the cruise ship, and then your luggage is delivered to the correct cabin with the tag intact. 

A cruise lanyard makes life easier to hold your cruise card (cabin key/ship ID card) without having to carry a bag or have a pocket to put in and make great stocking stuffers.

50 Useful Gifts for Cruise Lovers

10. passport holder / cover .

Passport holders /covers protect your passport from wear and tear and add some personalisation. 

11. Travel Wallet

Travel wallets are great for keeping all your travel documents and credit cards together, so no worrying about where everything is when travelling.

12. Selfie Stick

Selfie sticks are helpful when on your own or to get a shot of the family without bothering anyone else to take your photo. 

13. Portable Battery Charger

A portable charger is a must when going out all day in port to keep your phone battery full and never miss a photo opportunity.

14. iPhone/iPad Cable

iPhone/iPad ad cables are needed to charge the phone/pad with the regular country plug, portable battery charger or a USB wall charger. Always handy to have a spare cable.

15. World Adapter 

A world adapter is handy for hotel rooms before joining a cruise, onboard and in ports.

50 Perfect Cruise Gift Ideas

An iPhone is perfect to take on a cruise as is a good camera and it is a computer that fits in your pocket.

An iPad is great for cruising as it can be used for so many things; a computer, book, magazine, newspaper, playing games, watching movies/TV shows, etc.

A camera is a lovely gift for a cruiser, as who goes on a cruise without taking any photos? 

If you know someone that loves to read a Kindle is a great gift. Especially the ones that can be read in sunlight too, so they can read on the pool deck. 

50 Cruise Essentials for Cruise Fans

20. insulated water bottle .

There is nothing worse than a bottle of water that has got warm, so an insulated water bottle is very handy. Water bottles are a great gift for going on shore excursions or exploring the ports.

21. Travel Coffee Cup / Coffee Mug 

Everyone should have a travel coffee cup /mug as it is better for the environment and the cup keeps the coffee warmer for longer if you buy an insulated one.

22. Backpack

A backpack is very handy for going ashore in port, for carrying a water bottle, camera, souvenirs, etc. It is better for your back to use a backpack than a shoulder bag.

23. Travel Beach Towel

A travel beach towel is better than an ordinary beach towel as they are made from a microfibre that is lighter and dries quicker. This way they do not take up too much space in your luggage and they dry quickly for packing. They can also be used as an exercise mat in the cabin.

24. Travel Yoga Mat

If you know a cruise yogi then this is the perfect gift, as most people who practice yoga prefer to use their own mat. A travel yoga mat can be used onboard, in hotels, at home and in the yoga studio. 

25. Travel Laundry Bag

We all have laundry, so a nice bag to put it in when cruising is nice and it is easier to store in the cabin. If you are going to do your laundry when onboard it is nice to have a travel laundry bag to carry to the laundrette. 

Best Gifts for Cruisers

26. travel journal .

A travel journal is a lovely way to record the cruise ports you went to and what happened on the cruise.

27. Travel Wash Bag / Toiletry Bag

Everyone needs a travel wash bag /toiletry bag for their toiletries on a cruise, so this is always a useful gift.

28. Travel Sized Toiletries

A gift with travel-sized toiletries is always going to be handy for someone who travels a lot.

29. Travel Silk Pillow Case

A silk pillowcase is a perfect gift for someone who wants to protect their skin and hair while cruising or has sensitive skin. 

50 Best Cruise Gift Ideas

30. beach towel clips/towel bands .

Beach towel clips or towel bands are very useful to use to hold your beach towel to your sun lounger when onboard at the pool deck as it does get windy. Also, they can be used to clip your towels/clothing to the chairs on your balcony if you travel in a balcony cabin. 

31. Travel Make-up bag

A smaller make-up bag for travelling is useful as you don’t need all your whole make-up collection for a cruise.

32. Magnetic hooks

The walls in the cabins on board are magnetic so magnetic hooks are handy for hanging up extra things like necklaces, bracelets, bags, hats and sticks things to the wall.

33. Nautical Phone Case

A nautical phone case is just a fun gift, especially if they love their phone and cruising!

34. Nautical iPad Case

Another fun gift for the iPad lover and cruiser lover is a nautical iPad case !

35. Nautical Kindle Case

A nautical Kindle case is a fun way to accessorise the Kindle.

Ultimate Gifts for Cruise Travelers

36. cruised themed t-shirts.

There are many play-on-words cruise ship T-shirts around and I’m sure this would bring a smile to the cruise lovers’ faces.

37. Waterproof Phone Pouch / Cover

A waterproof phone pouch /case is essential on the beach, boat trip or by the pool on board to keep your phone dry.

38. Beach/Pool Bag

A beach/pool bag is essential for a warm itinerary to carry towels, cameras, phones, etc.

39. Stationary 

If you are travelling with friends or family on a cruise, stationary such as Post-it notes, pens, tape, and paper come in handy to stick notes to cabin doors or on the cruise cabin walls. 

Find a Unique Gift for the Cruise Enthusiast

40. cruise power strip.

Plug sockets are never in the right place or close to a mirror, so bringing a cruise power strip will make getting ready or charging your phone a little easier.

41. Portable Speakers

If you like to listen to your music in the cabin, portable speakers that link to your phone/iPad are a  really handy gift.

42. Binoculars 

Binoculars are the perfect gift for the wildlife spotter or the nosy! 

43. Sunscreen & Aftersun 

On warm itineraries, everyone needs sunscreen and probably some aftersun for the missed bits!

Hats are always good for warm or cold itineraries on a cruise.

Best Travel Gifts for a Cruise Fanatic

45. travel alarm clock .

If you do not travel with a cell phone, a travel alarm clock is handy to have for those early morning tours. 

46. Seasick Tablets / Travel Bands

Seasick tablets or travel bands can be a serious or a joke present for the cruiser you know.

47. Corkscrew / Bottle Opener

Most cruise lines allow one bottle of wine per person to bring on board, but if you would like to drink it in your cabin you will need a corkscrew !

48. Laundry Delicates Bag

If you are going to wash your laundry onboard, delicate bags are essential for underwear and delicate items of clothing, as the machines are not like the ones you have at home.

49. Small Purse

A small purse is handy on a cruise to carry a cruise card (cabin key), cell phone, etc.

50. Cabin Door Organiser  

This is a great gift for the over-packer, if you bring a lot on your cruise a door organiser will help you with all those shoes, bags, accessories, etc that you don’t know where to put in the closet as you have run out of room!

You may also enjoy reading 

How to Make Your Cabin or Hotel Room More Festive Over Christmas

Apps That Work on a Cruise Ship with no Wi-Fi Connection

What To Wear On Smart Casual Nights on a Cruise

I hope you enjoyed reading 50 Useful Gifts for the Cruise Traveller and now know what to buy for the cruise lover you know.

Check out my Amazon storefront to see all of the 50 Useful Gifts for the Cruise Traveller, click here to shop now for the perfect gift.

Please share on Facebook and Twitter so your friends and family can read it too or pin it for later on Pinterest.

Happy Travels!

You may also enjoy:

Travel update: california, hawaii & french polynesia, what you must see in ketchikan alaska, the essential cruise formal night guide, cruise tips from cruise ship passengers – part 1, leave a reply cancel reply.

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• It List 2024 The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year The Best New U.S. Resorts of 2023 The Best New Affordable Luxury Hotels of 2023 The Best New International Resorts of 2023 The Best New Cruise Ships of 2023 The Best New City Hotels of 2023 The Most Luxurious New Hotels of 2023 CLOSE Part of It List 2024

Travel + Leisure’s 2024 It List.

Since 1971, Travel + Leisure editors have followed one mission: to inform, inspire, and guide travelers to have deeper, more meaningful experiences. T+L's editors have traveled to countries all over the world, having flown, sailed, road tripped, and taken the train countless miles. They've visited small towns and big cities, hidden gems and popular destinations, beaches and mountains, and everything in between. With a breadth of knowledge about destinations around the globe, air travel, cruises, hotels, food and drinks, outdoor adventure, and more, they are able to take their real-world experience and provide readers with tried-and-tested trip ideas, in-depth intel, and inspiration at every point of a journey.

Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure

For the first time, we’re spotlighting new cruise ships on Travel + Leisure ’s It List, as these exceptional vessels become more and more like floating resorts — celebrity chefs, crystal chandeliers, and Rolex boutiques included.

Explora Journeys’ Explora I

Paul Brady/Travel + Leisure

It’s not every day a new cruise line arrives. The debut of the remarkable Explora I was a moment years in the making for Explora Journeys , the upstart luxury operator that aims to bring a European sensibility to the world of vacations at sea. So far, the project is a smashing success, thanks to the ship’s low-key vibe, standout food and beverage, and intriguing itineraries that visit in-demand ports in Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Caribbean. My own August 2023 trip on Explora I , from Copenhagen to Hamburg, Germany, included fulfilling visits to places such as Oslo and the town of Stavanger, Norway, a gateway to adventurous hiking with a postcard-perfect Old Town. The ship itself was also a destination, with its abundance of outdoor space — including an alfresco fitness center — and pools at seemingly every turn. The 461 suites, all of them with balconies, are filled with luxurious touches such as Frette linens and robes, heated marble floors, and Dyson hair dryers. But Explora I truly shines when it comes to food: During the week I was aboard, it was impossible to find a bad meal — and I was often astonished at the quality of, in particular, the pasta served in the Emporium Marketplace and the sushi on offer at Sakura, two of the nine restaurants aboard. The most ambitious of them all is Anthology, a rotating-chef concept that has seen a residency from seafood whiz Mario Ulaissi, known for his Michelin three-starred restaurant on Italy's Adriatic coast, and that recently welcomed Emma Bengtsson, from Aquavit , in New York City. Much has been made of Explora I ’s Rolex boutique — the first on any cruise ship — but for my money, the other shops on board were more interesting: The company has tapped family-owned businesses around the world to create capsule collections of resort wear, handbags, fragrances, sunglasses, and beautiful gifts that can’t be found elsewhere. From $2,050 per person for a six-day sailing. Accessible ship. — Paul Brady

Oceania Cruises’ Vista

Nick Tortajada/Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

The new Oceania Vista is in a class of its own; no really, it’s the first in Oceania Cruises ’ new Allura class. Of its 11 bars and restaurants, three are entirely new to the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings–owned brand — including a high-end cocktail spot called Founders’ Bar, serving 26 intricate drinks that use house-made syrups and top-shelf booze like Whistle Pig and parsley-infused Grey Goose. As Oceania levels up, the cruise line has produced a ship that feels more like a floating resort than the vessels that came before. There’s pickleball; a health-conscious restaurant, Aquamar, serving made-to-order salads and pressed juices; and a coffee shop that looks like one in walking distance of my home in L.A. (marble counters, gold accents, leather bar stools) and pulls an espresso shot of similar quality. Vista has more suites than others in the Oceania fleet, too: There are 14 Oceania Suites (up to 1,200 square feet); eight Vista Suites (up to 1,850 square feet); and three Owner’s Suites with Ralph Lauren Home decor and two massive terraces (2,400 square feet). But the most hotel-like touch? A celebrity chef–driven restaurant, Toscana, where Giada De Laurentiis — the ship’s godmother — supplied two recipes for the menu. As someone who watched a lot of Everyday Italian in the early aughts, I was particularly excited to try her signature, Capri-inspired lemon spaghetti, and lemon-cream sauce with grilled shrimp and capers didn’t disappoint. From $2,499 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Maya Kachroo-Levine

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ sixth ship, the Seven Seas Grandeur , sailed its inaugural season in December, joining sibling ships Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor as the newest member of the luxury fleet. The cruise line is a favorite among T+L readers for its gorgeous ships and all-inclusive pricing that covers unlimited shore excursions, dining at specialty restaurants, and even round-trip airfare. Grandeur lives up to its name thanks to stunning, art-filled spaces designed by cruise ship interior experts Studio Dado: signature restaurant Compass Rose is enchanting with interiors inspired by a fairy-tale forest; the Observation Lounge sparkles with an undulating chandelier and swanky bar; and the $11,000-per-night Regent Suite has a private en suite spa and custom Treesse mini pool. As I boarded Grandeur for the ship’s inaugural sailing, I was mesmerized by the grand staircase and glittering chandelier. And with a maximum capacity of 744 guests, I found it easy to take time to myself in the myriad of quiet spots tucked throughout the ship, whether in the Serene Spa and Wellness area, in the Library, or on the Sports Deck overlooking the ocean. Seven restaurants include specialty steakhouse Prime 7, pan-Asian restaurant Pacific Rim, and breakfast and lunch buffet La Veranda, which refines the cruise buffet experience with daily specials like paella and sushi. Several bars and lounges, a pool and hot tubs, a casino, Broadway-style productions, and cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Kitchen make the ship a destination in itself, though guests will want to take advantage of those included excursions on Caribbean, Central American, North American, and European itineraries, ranging from seven to 16 nights, during the ship’s 2024 season. From $4,669 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — Elizabeth Rhodes

Silversea’s Silver Nova

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Carrying 728 passengers, Silver Nova is big for the luxury sector, but boasts a hugely important metric: a capacious passenger space ratio — that is, the number of guests relative to the size of the ship. Simply put, this ship offers more elbow room per passenger than almost any other cruise vessel. Silver Nova is wrapped in glass, with an asymmetrical layout; the funnel is positioned off-center, so is the pool, offering an expansive, uncluttered pool deck. Many features of the brand-new ship recall previous Silversea successes, my favorite of which is the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) program, expanded for Silver Nova . S.A.L.T. perks include a gorgeous, sea-facing lab for hands-on culinary lessons (at no additional cost), plus a new concept, the Chef’s Table, where an 11-course menu is prepared for just 24 diners. All facets of the S.A.L.T. ecosystem, including ingredients, a bar, lectures, and shore excursions, are keyed to the region Nova is sailing. While food is a drawing card for Silver Nova , accommodations also received a revamp. Tied to the theme of bringing the outside in, there are brilliant new suites found in the aft starboard corner of the ship, with wraparound balconies revealing a 270-degree view.  This is where you can tuck me in when I win the lottery and head off on a world cruise. But until then, Silver Nova will summer in Alaska and spend northern hemisphere winters in Australia and New Zealand, places where top-deck views should prove ceaselessly rewarding. From $3,250 per person for a seven-night sailing. Accessible ship. — David Swanson

It List 2024

12 Unique Gift Ideas For The Budget Traveler In Your Life

E veryone travels differently, and these days, budget traveling is becoming more and more popular. I’m certainly a fan of the budget traveling lifestyle, and if you know someone who is always backpacking their way through life, then this article is just for you. This article will highlight some of the best gifts for backpackers and budget travelers so you can send them on their way with new gear, new destinations, and new experiences. Be sure to check out our ultimate guide for gifts for travelers – it covers everything from family adventures to solo traveling gift ideas.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to start adding these gifts to your cart. Who knows, you may even be inspired to start planning a backpacking adventure of your own!

Carry-on Essentials

Experience gifts for budget travelers, stocking stuffers.

It always starts with the carry-on, and the balancing act of keeping the essentials at the ready so the journey to the destination is as comfortable as possible. For those who travel often, having these items can be a game changer as far as comfort is concerned, so if your traveler doesn’t already have any of these essential travel items, they’ll make great travel gifts.

1. Portable Charger

2. travel pillow, 3. water bottle, 4. magnetic storage bag.

Exploring the great outdoors is a priority for backpackers, and keeping the outdoors outside has been a struggle since the dawn of time. This gear and shoe storage bag by Luno clamps right onto the side of your car with magnets and keeps all of your muddy belongings separate.

OnlyInYourState editor Sarah McCosham swears by this storage bag; “This is awesome for camping trips – it keeps the funk out of the car!”

5. Packing Cubes

Those who travel on a budget tend to prioritize memories over things, which is why we love experience-based gifts. Some of the best gifts for backpackers are experiences, unique stays, and memberships that they can use again and again. Sure, part of a backpacker’s thrill is the craftiness that comes along with the journey, but every now and then, it’s nice to splurge on an amazing opportunity like a night at a fancy resort or an incredible tour.

6. ResortPass

7. virgin experience gifts, 8. city experiences gift card, 9. alltrails + membership.

If your budget backpacker seems to have everything they need, then it’s time to get creative with these fun stocking stuffers everyone will love.

10. World Map Laundry Bag

11. a good eye mask, 12. camera tripod.

Did any of these gifts for travelers on a budget make it into your cart? Are you inspired to start planning your own adventure? Let us know! If you have any recommendations, let us know in the comments, and we may include them in a future article!

The post 12 Unique Gift Ideas For The Budget Traveler In Your Life appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

52 Mother’s Day Gifts Under $100

Mother’s Day is coming up (it falls on May 12 this year), so it’s time to start thinking about gifts. Whether you’re going for a physical item or an experiential present — a meal, a trip to the movies or a museum, a spa day — it’s nice to have something to open on the day itself. I’ve rounded up gifts at all price points so there’s something for every mother in your life. All are available on Amazon, and many can also be purchased at other retailers. For more gifts for every kind of mom — from new mothers to foodies — check out our hub here .

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• mother's day 2024

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

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Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Vacations

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