cruise ship travel tips

21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Cruising is easy. Or so cruisers will tell you.

For starters, you only have to unpack once, even as you travel from place to place. You also don't have to go hunting for a restaurant every night. There usually are a bunch just steps away from your cabin with tables waiting for you. You'll also have no trouble finding entertainment.

But even in its simplicity, cruising still can be daunting for a first-timer. What should you bring? What should you plan on doing in ports? What is the best way to book?

As the head of The Points Guy's cruise content team , I get these sorts of questions all the time.

This brings me to the tips below. If you've read this far, you are likely a first-time cruiser looking for advice for an upcoming trip, and that's exactly what this story is meant to offer. It contains my list of 21 ways to make your first sailing go more smoothly.

It's a list drawn not just from my own experience over 25-plus years of cruising but also the observations of more than 100 cruising fans who shared their tips with TPG in a lively conversation on the topic at the TPG Lounge on Facebook. (If you're not a member yet, we highly encourage you to join.)

Arrive at your departure port a day ahead of schedule

If you only follow one piece of advice in this story, it should be this one. It is the only way to ensure you won't miss your ship — something that happens to cruisers more often than you would think.

Many cruises depart in the afternoon, so it might seem just fine to fly or drive to a port on the morning of departure. But all it takes is a moderate flight delay or a pile-up on the highway to upset those plans. If you're delayed in your arrival at the port, the ship will not wait for you.

If you're traveling overseas for a cruise, we recommend traveling to the port two or even three days in advance. This isn't just so you don't miss the ship. It's also so you have some time to recover from jet lag. European cruises, in particular, can be port-intensive, with lots of touring, so you want to be refreshed and ready to hit the ground running right after the cruise begins.

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise ship

Pack your bathing suit in your carry-on

When you first arrive at a ship, before you even get on board, you'll likely be greeted by porters who will whisk away your luggage. It will be delivered to your room later in the day. This is a great convenience, as there's no need to haul your bags through the entire check-in progress. But it also means you might not have access to your luggage for many hours on your first day on board.

Be sure to pack anything you think you might need for these first hours of your cruise in your carry-on bag. This means things like medication, for sure, but also a phone charger, a bathing suit, a hat, sunscreen and other items that will let you head straight to the pool deck to start the fun.

Related: Use this packing list for your next cruise

Don't overpack

Use this strategy when packing for a cruise: Throw all the clothes you think you'll need on a cruise in a pile, and then take away half of them. You won't need them. Trust us.

Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage. If things get dirty, it's no problem. Many ships have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks where you can run a load or two of laundry every few days. If not, you can send laundry out to be cleaned on board. It'll usually come back in a day or two.

The extra cost of doing a few loads of laundry on a ship is a small price to pay for the freedom of not having to lug a giant suitcase around as you travel to and from your ship. Plus, you'll want to save room in your suitcase for all the little treasures you're going to find along the way.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry service

Bring your own drinks on board

Many first-time cruisers assume they can't bring their own drinks on board a ship. But many lines will allow this, usually with some limits. It's one way to save money when cruising, as drink prices on ships can be high.

Among the lines that will allow you to be your own bartender is Disney Cruise Line . Adults can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne or six beers onto Disney ships at the start of a cruise and at every port of call. Note that these beverages must be packed in carry-on bags. At Royal Caribbean , the bring-your-own allowance is one bottle of wine or Champagne per passenger at boarding. You can also bring up to a dozen standard cans, bottles or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks per cabin.

One caveat: Many lines levy a "corkage fee" if you want to bring your wine into an onboard restaurant. Be sure to read the rules for your line before you bring any drinks on board.

Related: Are drink packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Bring extra toiletries

Yes, you'll be able to find sunscreen, aspirin and Band-Aids on a cruise ship. But it'll cost you. Cruise lines know you're a captive audience and price their shipboard stores accordingly.

I have a small "go bag" of over-the-counter medicines that I throw into my suitcase for every cruise. It contains everything from cold medicine to seasickness pills. I rarely use any of it, but I also never get hit with a ridiculous toiletries charge.

While we're on the topic of sundries, don't forget extra batteries for your camera if you are bringing one.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Bring these six other things, too

In addition to extra toiletries, cruising regulars often bring Clorox wipes or something similar to wipe down surfaces in their cabin upon arrival (and to bring along onshore excursions). I admit, I've never done this, though I know I should — if only to wipe off the remote control for the cabin TV.

Many cruisers also won't head to a ship without room freshener, a foldable shoe rack (which they hang in the cabin bathroom to store toiletries), a highlighter (to highlight activities on the daily planner) and a lanyard (to hold their cabin keycard). I am, of course, too cool to ever put a keycard lanyard around my neck, which means I lose my card once or twice on every trip. They always give me a new one at the front desk. My cruise team colleague Ashley Kosciolek also eschews lanyard-wearing on ships, but that didn't stop her from writing this wonderful guide to the coolest cruise lanyards around.

Some cruisers also swear by bringing magnets to ships to affix dinner invitations, excursion tickets and other important papers to their cabin walls. Walls on ships often are made with metal (even if they look like wood, thanks to faux wood veneers) and will hold a magnet. Some cruisers even bring magnets with hooks so they can hang up clothes and other items on their walls.

Related: 20 things you should bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

Skip the buffet on your first day on board

There's nothing more jammed than a cruise ship buffet on embarkation day. Everybody boarding heads straight up to it. To avoid the first-day buffet crowds, head to whatever secondary dining option is available. Sometimes, a ship will open one of its table-served eateries for lunch on embarkation day. It'll likely be much less crowded than the buffet.

Research ports in advance

There are some types of vacations — a beach trip, for instance — where you don't have to do much advanced research. You just sort of show up. Most cruises aren't this way — at least if you want to get the most out of them. At the heart of most cruises are port calls that, in many cases, are very short — often just a few hours. You want to have a plan for what to do in these ports, or you'll miss out on a big part of the cruising experience.

Once you know what ports you'll be visiting, research them as much as you can at travel sites such as The Points Guy. Here at TPG, we're starting to build out a series of home port and destination port guides for everywhere, from PortMiami to Bora Bora .

Related: The ultimate guide to Caribbean cruising

Join a Facebook group for your line

Another great place to get ideas for what to do in ports and on ships — and what to bring on a cruise, for that matter — are the many private Facebook groups dedicated to particular lines. I belong to a number of them, including the Royal Caribbean Cruises group, the COPs (Cruisers Opinion Page) group and the Holland America Line Fans group. You'll find thousands of cruise fans at these pages who often are more than willing to answer questions about their favorite line, its ships, its itineraries and the destinations on the itineraries. I've met some wonderful people in these groups, some of whom have become my longtime friends on Facebook.

Sign up for private tours

Booking a shore excursion directly through your cruise line is easy. You just check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. But booking tours through your line isn't the only option, and it's not always the best option. In many cases, you can save a lot of money — and get a better touring experience — by booking shore excursions through independent tour operators in ports or a tour booking service such as Viator or ToursByLocals .

Often, independent tours will be much more intimate than the tours offered directly through cruise lines. They might go to the same sites but in a small van instead of a big motorcoach. You might have just six or eight other people on a tour with you instead of nearly 40. If your group is big enough, you might even be able to book a private tour with an independent tour operator.

Related: The ultimate TPG guide to shore excursions

Independent tours can also take you to places that the cruise line-organized tours don't. Plus, they often come with excellent service. ToursByLocals has staff on hand around the clock to respond to questions, and — for those worried about missing your ship — they offer a return-to-ship guarantee with every tour.

Sign up for activities in advance or soon after boarding

Some lines will let you sign up for shows, tours and other activities (including meals at specialty restaurants) in advance of sailing using online portals. If you want to be sure that you get a seat for a specific show on a specific night or a specific tour or restaurant reservation time, it's a good idea to do this. It's not uncommon with some ships to find that some shows, tours and restaurant reservation times book up in advance.

If you don't sign up for activities in advance, a backup strategy is to do so just after you board a vessel. That said, whether you need to race to sign up for activities at the start of a voyage depends a lot on which ship you are on. I am more careful about signing up for many things in advance when I am sailing on a giant ship such as Royal Caribbean's record-breaking Wonder of the Seas, where thousands of other passengers are competing for the choicest reservations.

Related: 15 giant ships that are the best for fun

Don't feel like you have to do it all

While we're on the topic of signing up for activities, note that it's OK if you miss a few things. You don't have to do it all. In fact, you should force yourself to try to not do it all. Remember, you're on vacation. Relax. Take some downtime. Sit on your balcony, if you have one, and just stare out at the ocean for a couple of hours. You won't regret it.

Always carry the ship's contact information with you

When going ashore, always bring the ship's contact information with you. Those details are usually printed in the newsletter that's delivered to your cabin each night. If something goes wrong when you're away from the ship, you'll want to get in contact with the cruise line right away.

Keep your phone in airplane mode

Some of the biggest cruise ship horror stories you'll find on the internet are tales of cruising newbies who racked up thousands of dollars in cellphone charges while on ships. This can happen when you leave your phone turned on and, say, watch videos on the internet. Many phone plans — even international plans — do not include talking, texting and data on cruise ships, and you'll pay exorbitant roaming rates for such services that will show up weeks later on your phone bill.

There are ways to make calls and access the internet from ships without spending a boatload of money. You can buy a Wi-Fi package, for instance, that will let you make FaceTime calls and stream videos (on some ships) over Wi-Fi without using phone data.

Some phone companies have cruise-specific plans you can buy in advance of a voyage. But I personally never go that route. I keep it simple. I just put my phone in airplane mode the moment I step on board a ship and never switch it back on. I then turn on the phone's Wi-Fi, buy a Wi-Fi package and do all my calling, texting and internet surfing over Wi-Fi. That way, there's no way that I can be surprised by an unexpected charge.

Download the cruise app

A growing number of lines now have apps that you can download to your smartphone in advance of sailing. The apps vary in what they offer, but many will show you a daily list of activities and all of the things that you have reserved. Many also will let you make restaurant reservations and book shore excursions and other activities, and a few will let you order drinks and other items to wherever you happen to be standing. That's pretty cool, right? The best part: The apps will work on board even if you don't pay for a Wi-Fi package.

Related: The best cruise apps to streamline your vacation at sea

Use a travel agent to book

Given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you arrange things. A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. The agent can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

In addition, travel agents can often secure you extra onboard credit and other perks that you might not be able to get by booking directly with a line.

Related: Why you should always use a travel agent to book a cruise

Consider travel insurance

It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising — or any sort of travel. We hate to even bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness. Or, maybe you'll fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled, and you miss the vessel's departure. These sorts of things can happen to cruisers, and they're all the sort of situations where you might benefit from having travel insurance. Here's a comparison of the top travel insurance providers and information about "cancel for any reason" add-ons .

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Don't book a cabin near an elevator

Not every cabin on a ship is created equal. When choosing a room on your first cruise, you might want to stay away from those near elevators and just above nightclubs and other late-night venues. They can sometimes be noisy. Cabins just below the pool deck and near the anchor also can be problematic as well as cabins near casinos.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Use a points card for onboard spending

You saw this one coming, no? Given TPG's origins as a points and miles website , we'd be remiss if we didn't remind you to maximize your credit card points while making purchases on ships. The way to do this is to tie a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases to your onboard account. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on dining.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Don't tip twice for drinks and spa treatments

Most cruise ships now automatically add a gratuity to bar bills, often in the amount of 18% to 20% of the total. Such automatic gratuities are also becoming more common in ship spas. But many first-time cruisers don't know this and write in a hefty tip at the "additional tip" line on bills at cruise ship bars and spas. Be sure to ask if a gratuity has already been included before adding another 15% or 20% to the total. Otherwise, you may end up tipping twice.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

Use points to get to your cruise

Using points and miles to pay for a cruise doesn't always make sense , as it often requires a huge number of them to secure a cabin. But that doesn't mean you can't save big time by booking your flights to and from a ship using points and miles .

You'll find plenty of stories here at The Points Guy about how to, say, pay the equivalent of $1,330 in points for a flight that costs $16,000 or book a $27,000 around-the-world trip for just $168 in out-of-pocket costs . Scroll around a little, and you may never pay cash for a flight to a cruise ship again.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
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• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
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• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
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• Faster to the Fun
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• CocoCay Tips
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• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
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• What to Pack for a Cruise
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57 Must-Have Tips, Advice, and Info For First-Time Cruisers

Taking your first cruise? The only thing that can match the excitement of an upcoming vacation is the overwhelmed feeling that comes with trying to navigate and plan for your first trip. We’ve been there. Our first cruise, we had no idea what to expect.

From embarkation on cruise day to dining to shore excursions, everything you do on a cruise is just a little different than any other vacation you’ve ever been on. That’s why we’ve taken the time to round up a boatload of tips — 57 to be exact — that will help you know better about what to expect come cruise day. These are all tips we’ve learned over more than a decade — and dozens — of cruises.

From the basic details of cruising to how to save some cash — and much more — we’ve got everything you need to be confident and enjoy your trip the second you reach the port.

Note:  This article contains links to Amazon that are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

1. Don’t Worry About Cash on Board; Everything Is Paid Through Your Room Key

When you go through check-in, you’ll receive the key to your room. (Check-in online ahead of time? It may be in a sealed envelope at your cabin door.) This “key” is actually like a credit card that you’ll slide into your cabin door to unlock it. But it does a lot more. It’s also linked to your shipboard account, and you’ll use your room key just like a credit card to charge items to your account.

No matter if you’re buying a drink or a souvenir on one of the ships, you’ll use this card to pay. The only time you’ll use cash is when you are off the ship in port ( here’s how much cash to bring ). This is much more convenient than having to carry around dollars. Just be sure to keep a close hold on your card!

2. Interior Cabins Are Fine For First-Time Cruisers

Wondering if you should get an interior cabin or a balcony room? Don’t sweat it. Balconies are great, but there are some big advantages for interior cabins . As a first-time cruiser, it’s doubtful you’ll be spending much time in your room anyway as you’ll want to be out and about exploring. Having an interior cabin is a cheaper way to get on your first sailing without breaking the bank.

3. Balcony Rooms Are Worth It

As we just said, interior cabins are great for first-time cruisers who are usually out around the ship the entire trip. But if you do decide to spring for a balcony room, it’s well worth it.

This is especially the case if you’re the sort of person who likes to take your time getting ready in the morning while sipping on a cup of coffee or just having your own private space to take in the view. Having the fresh air — and the million-dollar views — from your balcony is worth the extra cost if you want to pay a little more for your trip.

4. What to Expect With Security at Check-In

Who isn’t turned off by the intrusive security at airports these days? From having to empty water bottles, to taking off shoes, to raising your hands and being scanned by a machine, it’s awful. Thankfully, cruise security is much more like flying used to be.

Enter the terminal and then you’ll have to pass through a security checkpoint. You’ll step through a metal detector and your bags will go on an x-ray machine. The security process takes just a few seconds. There aren’t highly intrusive screening measures in place such as pat-downs, you don’t have to remove your belt or shoes, and you don’t have limits on liquids.

5. Book Packages Ahead of Time for a Discount

Any veteran cruise passenger knows the best way to save some cash is to book packages ahead of your cruise. Things like drink packages and wi-fi are discounted through your online account before your cruise. Cruise lines offer this incentive to get you to book early and spend more money. Still, if you’re going to buy the packages anyway, it’s worth it.

The savings can be substantial versus the onboard prices, such as drink packages offered for buy one, get one 50% off. 

6. Passports Are Better Than Birth Certificates

One nice thing about cruises is that many trips allow you to sail with only a birth certificate and photo ID (if the cruise begins and ends in the same port). If you don’t have a passport, you can still leave the country and don’t have to go through the hassle and expense of obtaining one.

Even so, it’s much smarter to sail with a passport. Not only does it come in handy should you need to leave the ship early due to an emergency, but it can also save you time. These days many ports use facial recognition matched with your passport for entering the country. Snap a photo and you’re on your way home. Those with birth certificates sometimes still wait in line to be checked by an officer.

7. Don’t Worry About Changing Money in Port

Headed to the Caribbean? It’s likely you’ll visit several countries — with several different currencies — within just a few days. The good news is you don’t have to think about converting currencies at each port. The ports you visit thrive on tourism and make things easy for tourists. They will all gladly accept U.S. dollars, and often take credit cards. Just bring some smaller bills for your port days and you’ll be all set.

8. Take Advantage of Drink Policies to Bring Things On

When you get on a ship there is no shortage of places to spend money. That’s why we suggest passengers take advantage of any chance they have to save.

Case in point: Carnival and Royal Caribbean — two of the biggest players in cruising — allow you to bring on 12 cans of non-alcoholic drinks . 

Considering that soft drinks are about $3 each on a cruise, that can save you a nice chunk of change. As well, it allows you to bring your favorite non-alcoholic drink with you in case it isn’t served on the ship.

9. Order Multiples in the Main Dining Room

Most people don’t realize it, but the cruise lines will often bend over backwards to make you happy. Case in point: You can order multiple items from the dining room menu.

So say you want an appetizer, but can’t choose between two of them. Don’t choose. Instead, just order them both.

This makes it a great way to try dishes that are out of your comfort zone. If you don’t end up liking it, then there’s no big loss since the dining room food is included. (Some lines may charge a small fee for multiple entrees.)

10. Yes, You Can Bring (Some) Alcohol on Board

Cruise lines know that people want to let loose and have a drink (or ten!) on the cruise. That’s why they charge high prices for their booze. Still, most cruise lines allow you to bring aboard some alcohol when you embark at the start of your trip. It’s very restrictive in that it’s typically only a bottle or two of champagne. Still, we recommend taking advantage as it’s much cheaper than buying drinks once on the ship.

11. Do the Math Before Booking the “All You Can Drink” Packages

If you’ve been tempted by the drink packages, do the math before you buy it. Drink packages seem like good deals, but the rules can make them quite pricey. For instance, many cruise lines force each person in a cabin to buy the package if any passenger buys it. As well, you have to buy the package for the entire cruise.

That means even on days when you are in port (and not on the ship for most of the day), you’re still paying for the package. Finally, with high daily prices, you usually have to drink 7-10 drinks each and every day you are on the cruise to come out ahead.

For many passengers, they are actually better off buying drinks individually . (Use our Drink Package Calculator to see if you’re better off with a package.)

12. Take Your Time, Reduce the Lines

Want to board first? Want to be first off the ship? Great, hope you like standing in line. Today’s ships carry more than 5,000 passengers at a time. That means there are usually lines for everything, especially right when they open like when it’s time to board the ship. We’d suggest simply taking your time and don’t worry about being anywhere right when it opens. It will mean you spend less of your vacation waiting around and more time enjoying your trip.

13. Parking at the Port Is Convenient, But There Are Cheaper Options

If you’re driving to the cruise port, then you should know that it doesn’t get any more convenient than with the official port parking lots. They are typically right at the cruise terminal, so you unload and head right to check-in. Of course, they charge for that convenience.

If you search for parking lots near the port , you can usually find independent lots that are nearly as convenient, but at a sharp discount to parking at the port. These lots almost always offer a free shuttle to drop you off right at the ship as well.

14. Many Hotels Offer Free Cruise Parking

Plan to stay in town the night before your cruise? If you’re driving in, look for a hotel that offers a cruise parking special . As an incentive to attract guests, many hotels (especially in smaller port cities like Galveston) offer free parking if you stay a night with them. It’s an easy way to save a bundle, but only if you planned to stay the night anyway. It’s typically not worth it to stay just to get free parking.

15. There’s No Bill to Sign (or Tip to Leave) in the Dining Room

Tipping is a fact of life on a cruise. And cruise lines have included gratuities with your cruise fare or charged daily to your account, so they are taken care of automatically. That means when you eat in the free restaurants on the ship like the buffet and the main dining room, there’s no bill to pay or tip to leave.

It can feel a little wrong the first time, but when you are done with dinner, you simply get up and walk out.

Now, this doesn’t go for specialty restaurants that are a fee. If you eat there you’re expected to sign the bill to confirm the charge, and the gratuity is tacked onto the price.

16. Turn Your Phone On Airplane Mode Once on the Ship

There are horror stories of people coming back from their cruise with unexpected cell phone charges. The reason is either they use their phone willingly without realizing they are connected to a “roaming” tower or their phone used data without their knowledge for things like updating apps or downloading messages. No matter the reason, you don’t want to accidentally get dinged with a sky-high phone bill. Put your phone on airplane mode before your cruise leaves the shore.

You should also turn on the wi-fi, which will allow you to connect for free to the cruise line’s app. You can also pay to connect to the ship’s wi-fi and use your phone as normal.

17. Yes, You Can Hear Through the Walls (So Keep it Down)

If you’re worried about sounds traveling through the walls, you should be. To be clear, the walls are not paper thin, so you won’t hear the cabin next to you watching a TV at a normal volume. But if you are the type that makes a lot of noise (ahem… enjoying your vacation with your partner, perhaps?), then you should try to keep it down. You’ll also be able to hear people in the halls through the door.

18. The Main Dining Room Serves Breakfast and Lunch

Most passengers will eat their dinner in the main dining room, but they actually serve breakfast and lunch there too. The buffet is quick and easy for these meals, but the quality and freshness is usually lower than what you’ll get in the dining rooms. Head over if you want something a little better.

19. It’s a Ship… Not a Boat

It’s not a big deal, but just so you don’t sound like a rookie cruiser, it’s good to understand the terminology. It is a cruise ship that you are sailing on. Calling it a boat during the trip may get you funny looks. 

There’s no real cut-off on what is a considered a boat, versus a ship — other than ships are known as large ocean-going vessels. There’s no doubt that the size and scale of any cruise ship you sail will definitely put them firmly in the “ship” category.

20. Ports of Call Aren’t Always Disneyland

With everything seemingly so perfect on the ship, it can be easy to think that ports of call are perfect as well. To be fair, ports you visit will be pretty safe, especially in the tourist areas. Venture outside of these spots, however, and it’s just like any other place. There are good parts of town and places where you don’t want to venture.

Odds are you won’t find these spots without looking for them, but be aware of your surroundings at all times and don’t do anything like flash lots of cash or wear tons of fancy jewelry. It’s also a good idea not to drink too much in port to keep your wits about you.

21. Cruise Insurance? Always a Good Idea to Have

The fact is that most people will never use the travel insurance that they buy. Still, if something goes wrong at sea, it’s a great thing to have. Travel insurance can help cover costs of getting sick or injured in a foreign country, as well as compensate you for travel delays, lost baggage and more. If you’re on the fence about buying insurance, we’d suggest doing so. You can read more about travel insurance and what it covers here .

22. Be Ready for Itinerary Changes

Have your heart set on Cozumel? Can’t wait for that private island? Just know that cruise itineraries can change for any number of reasons. Whether it be an issue with the ship, weather, or even riots in port (yes, this has happened). Often the cruise lines will try to sub one port for another, but it isn’t unheard of for them just to scrap a stop in port altogether. Keep in mind that this is a fairly rare occurrence, but it does happen.

23. Don’t Use Cruise Line Transfers to the Port; They’re a Lousy Deal

If you’re flying in for your cruise, then you’re going to need a ride to the cruise port. Cruise lines are happy to offer this service, for a price. All the cruise lines will offer a shuttle that runs from the airport to the cruise port, but the catch is they are expensive.

For example, Carnival offers a ride from Miami International to the port for about $23 per person, one way. The trip is only about 15 minutes and an Uber costs about $25 for the trip. In other words, a roundtrip on the cruise shuttle would cost $184 for a family of four, but only around $50 with Uber or Lyft.

24. Don’t Waste Time Searching For a Deal; Fares Are the Same on Every Website

If you think you’re going to find some hidden deal, stop stressing. Every cruise website offers the same fares these days . Here’s the results of a recent search we did for an upcoming cruise, pricing it out across several sites:

Our advice? Book directly with the cruise line to cut out the middleman in case there is an issue with your reservation. If you don’t know what cruise line you want to sail, then an aggregator like Expedia can search multiple lines at once.

25. Yes, There’s a Hair Dryer in Your Cabin

Save the space and leave the hair dryer at home. Each cabin comes with a hair dryer for your use. They usually aren’t fancy, but get the job done. Even better, let the breeze on the top deck dry your hair for you (that’s a joke… sea hair is a real thing!)

You’ll normally find it in the built-in console in the main part of the cabin, not in the bathroom.

26. Outlet Adapters Are a Must-Have

From portable fans to laptop and tablet chargers to nightlights to curling irons, the need for outlets in a cruise cabin is always increasing. That’s why we suggest bringing aboard an outlet adapter like this one to plug in and give you more free plugs.

One thing to know — adapters with surge protectors are forbidden. A simple multi-plug adapter is all you really need, and it’s worth its weight in gold.

27. Cabins Get Very Dark; Bring a Night Light

There’s nothing worse than being in an unfamiliar, dark cabin and having to get up in the middle of the night to use the restroom. Save yourself from walking into furniture and stubbing your toe by packing a simple plug-in nightlight . It’s especially helpful if you’re in an interior cabin where there are no windows to provide outside illumination.

28. Every Cabin Comes With a Safe; Use it

When you leave your cabin, be sure to put any valuables in the cabin safe. No, it’s not perfect, but it acts as a good deterrent from crimes of convenience and provides you with a little peace of mind. The safes aren’t that big, but will hold cash, jewelry, phones and passports with plenty of room to spare.

29. Your Balcony Isn’t as Private as You Think

The cruise line might sell it as a private balcony, but there isn’t a whole lot of privacy. Your balcony on your cabin will have walls that shield you from the adjoining cabins, but the walls often don’t go from the floor to ceiling. They can easily be looked under or above, and someone could look around the side of them if they really wanted to. Keep this in mind if you’re out on the balcony when the mood for romance strikes .

30. Drink in Port to Save Cash Versus on the Ship

We all know drinking is part of cruise culture, but the cost can soar quickly. Beers cost about $8 on the ship. Cocktails usually run $12-$14.That’s why it’s a good idea to head to port if you want to get your money’s worth.

Most of the party bars near the cruise terminals in the Caribbean will have drink specials designed to get you in the door. It’s often much cheaper than drinking at a ship’s bar.

31. Taking the Stairs Is Faster If Traveling Only a Few Decks

With upwards of 20 decks on some cruise ships, going up and down via stairs is time-consuming… and tiring. But with so many people using the elevators, it’s common to have to wait awhile before you get one. That’s why if you are only going up or down three decks or fewer, it’s usually faster to take the stairs. Plus, it will help you work off some of those buffet calories.

32. Don’t Stress: Formal Night Isn’t a Big Deal

No, you don’t have to buy a tux or an evening gown for your cruise. You won’t be out of place if you do, but formal night actually isn’t that big of a deal. On these nights, plenty of people dress up, while others just put on a pair of nice pants and a button-down shirt. Our advice? Just keep it a step above poolside casual  (so no shorts or t-shirts) and you’ll be just fine.

33. Don’t Tip Twice! Gratuity Is Usually Automatic

Grab a drink from the bar? Your bill will typically include a gratuity automatically (normally 18%). Keep this in mind and double-check the itemized receipt before you sign as there is often another line for write-in tips. Unless the service was simply above and beyond, there is no reason to give a second tip on your drink.

34. You’ll Get Sunburned Much More Quickly in the Tropics

Everyone tells you to be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen on your cruise, but they don’t tell you why. At lower latitudes the sun’s rays are more direct. The result is that you can get burned being exposed to the sun for as little as 10 minutes if you aren’t used to it. So yes, wear the sunscreen, as well as a broad-brimmed hat to keep the UV rays off you as much as possible. The last thing you want is to look like a lobster on the second day of a week-long cruise.

35. Cruise on Older Ships to Save Money

News stories always hype up the biggest, newest cruise ships, and the cruise lines charge a pretty penny for sailings on these ships. If you’re looking to save money, look for trips that sail on older vessels.

These ships are still in great shape (and are often refurbished), but offer fares that are hundreds of dollars less than a similar sailing on a new member of the fleet.

36. Pack as Much as You Want, But Be Smart

Most of us are used to air travel, where you are charged sky-high fees for checking in baggage. Cruise ships are completely different.

There are no fees for luggage and no hard rules for how much you can bring. It’s a nice change of pace from flying, but don’t go crazy. Remember that even though you can bring more on board, you still have to lug all that luggage around. Lighter is better. If you’re bringing more than one large bag for a week-long cruise, then you’re packing too much.

37. Don’t Cruise If You Have a Warrant For Your Arrest

Traffic ticket that you never cleared up? Some other run-in with the law? If you have a warrant, don’t think about taking your first cruise. It’s a well-known tactic by law enforcement to check the passenger manifest against those with outstanding warrants. They often let the passengers sail on the cruise, and bust them when they come back . Get it cleared up before and you won’t have anything to worry about.

38. Worried About Seasickness? Here’s What to Know

If you fear being seasick, the good news is that most times you don’t even feel the ocean. That’s not to say you won’t feel occasional bumps or rocking, but if you’re expecting to move with the ocean, it doesn’t happen much. In fact, ships are so stable they often have pool tables onboard.

But if you are worried about it, then just pack some motion sickness medication or patches. You can also look for a cabin that is as low and close to the middle of the ship as possible.

The action of the waves causes the ship to pitch up and down the most at the end of the ship, with the middle acting as the fulcrum on a see-saw. There’s no guarantee you won’t feel the motion, but it should be better than getting a room toward the front or back of the ship.

39. Avoid Lines By Visiting Guest Services Late at Night or Early in the Morning

Chances are decent you’ll need to visit Guest Services as least once during your trip. If you do have to go to ask something about a reservation or your account, try to time your visit to off-hours (the desk is open 24 hours a day). Times like just before dinner can see long lines, when you’d rather be out enjoying yourself. Early in the morning (before 8 a.m.) and late at night (after 9 p.m.) are the best times to see the shortest lines. You also see shorter lines in the middle of the cruise.

40. Wait For People to Exit the Elevators Before Trying to Get In

Elevators are the heartbeat of the ship. With 5,000 cruise passengers trying to go up and down on more than a dozen decks, elevators are constantly busy, no matter the time of day. That’s why you should always wait to enter only after people have gotten out. It’s polite, but it also makes getting on and off much easier. Just stand far enough back to give people plenty of space to exit and then enter only after your sure everyone is off. 

41. Pack a Small Fan For Your Cabin

While every cabin has air conditioning, they don’t have fans of any kind. That’s not an issue if you have a balcony and open your door, but any interior room is going to get a little stuffy — especially if you’re the sort of person that’s used to airflow. Luckily, you can bring aboard a portable fan like this one . As a bonus, a fan makes a great white-noise machine to help drown out any sounds from neighboring cabins.

42. Wear Sandals With Thick Tread Around the Ship

If you have a pair of cheap flip-flops that you like wearing around the pool, then it’s time to upgrade. Those sandals usually have slick bottoms that get worn down easy. When you hit a puddle, it’s easy to lose your grip and slip. On a ship, there are way too many places where you can slip and fall — especially around the pool. Upgrade to a pair that has a nice rubberized sole with plenty of tread.

43. What to Take Into Port With You

When you’re headed into port, the only two things you have to take with you are your ship keycard (it’s used to check you on/off the ship) and a photo ID if you’re 16 or older. Some people bring passports, but they aren’t required. 

Apart from that, you just want to bring whatever you might want or need for the day. If headed to the beach, we suggest a towel (beach towels are provided on the ship and can be taken into port), some cash, sunscreen, a hat, and walking shoes. 

44. Your Casino Payouts Can Be Worse Than on Land

If you want to gamble, a cruise ship offers plenty of opportunity. Nearly every cruise ship offers a casino . Just don’t expect great payouts. For example, on most ships blackjack pays 6-to-5 instead of the usual 3-to-2. Craps games heavily limit the amount of odds bets you can make. Video poker offers lower paybacks than the optimum pay table.

Head to the casino, enjoy yourself, but don’t think you’re getting a great deal.

45. Always Pack Some Cool-Weather Gear

Even if you are headed to the sunny Caribbean, it’s still a good idea to bring some warm clothes. When the ship is sailing and the sun has gone down, the combination of cooler temps and a strong breeze make it downright chilly on the deck. In addition, many spots around the ship are well air-conditioned, meaning you can be cool indoors as well.

46. Sail During the Summer/Spring Break for Younger Crowds

If you want to hang out with a younger crowd, then the time of year you sail is the biggest factor as to who you will sail with. Ships see younger crowds when school is out — Spring Break, Christmas, and Summer Break.

And if you’re looking to avoid younger folks and have a quieter cruise, then try to sail when school is in session and people are heading back to work. Months of January and February, as well as September and October will see older crowds compared to summer.

47. Save Hundreds By Sailing Off-Season

The rule of thumb is that cruises are most expensive when school is out. That’s because more people are able to take trips, driving up demand. So if you’re flexible with your dates, you can sail during off-season months like January or October and save some considerable money . The same trip sailing in late January can be 50% the cost of the same sailing that departs at the peak of summer.

48. Shorter Cruises = More Party-Like Atmosphere

If you want to have a calmer, quieter cruise, then look for trips that are seven days or more. Shorter cruises, which are less-expensive overall, tend to attract younger and more energetic crowds. That’s not to say it’s going to be like Mardi Gras, but shorter cruises — especially those traveling during the summer months — will definitely be a bit rowdier than what you’ll see from a week-long trip.

49. Invest in a Good Dry-Bag For Shore Days 

If you’re sailing to the Caribbean, the first image that comes to mind is white, sandy beaches and clear water. But what do you do with your cash, wallet, phone, and anything else you don’t want to get wet?

You can either leave it on shore as you swim or risk it getting soaked in the water. That’s why a dry-bag like this one is a great investment. It’s cheap, compact, and keeps all your stuff safe and sound.

50. Go Ahead, Splurge on Shore Excursions (Worth It)

Your first thought when you see the prices of shore excursions is that they are expensive. It’s not unusual for a shore excursion that is just 3-4 hours run more than $100 per person. But we think this is one spot to splurge on your trip.

Excursions give you a chance to do things you won’t have the opportunity to do anywhere else in the world — from exploring ancient ruins to taking a submarine under the Caribbean . After your trip you won’t remember the money you spent, but you won’t forget the experience you had.

51. Be Prepared for Hundreds in Port Fees and Gratuities

Cruise lines advertise ridiculously low fares. Well, just know that they are just the start of what you’ll pay. In addition, you’ll have to pay taxes and port fees, which can run into the hundreds depending on your specific trip. Add to that gratuities, which run about $18 per person, per day. Combined, these fees can add considerably to the cost of your cruise. Be prepared.

Note: Following a new law in California, cruise lines now advertise port fee and taxes in the price of the cruise, making pricing much more transparent from the start.

52. Keeping in Touch is Expensive (Internet Access)

Want to check email, surf the web, or call/text back home? Prepare to pay. Out at sea, the only communication is via satellite. Every cruise ship will have packages that allow you to call or get web access , but they charge a high price (often around $15-25 per day). There are several work-arounds (such as international plans that will give you cell phone service in port cities or using free wi-fi in ports), but for many people, it might be best just to turn off your device and enjoy being disconnected for a few days.

If you do book wi-fi, we’d suggest getting the top-tier package. Lower plans tend to have frustratingly slow connections.

53. Don’t Even Think About Being Late For the Ship

Check out the video below. As a first-time cruiser, don’t let this happen to you. The departure times for port days aren’t suggestions. You should be back on board by that time and not a moment later. The last thing you want to do is be a “pier runner” or worse, miss the ship altogether.

54. No Habla Espanol? No Problemo.

Many of the ports in the Caribbean and Mexico are Spanish-speaking countries, whereas others may speak Dutch or French. Don’t worry. You don’t have to be multi-lingual to get by. The cruise ports thrive on tourism and they make it as easy as possible for foreign tourists to get around. Practically everyone you encounter will speak English, so you can leave the Spanish dictionary at home.

55. Be Prepared to Have Your Picture Taken

Not the sort of person that likes having your picture taken by strangers? Get ready, because it will start before you even step foot on the ship. It’s big business on a cruise for roving photographers to take pictures of guests having fun. The pictures are then sold in the photo store on the ship. As a first-timer, it can be unnerving when you’re trying to relax (which others love it).

To be fair, the photographers are great and it’s a nice way to get a professional photo done to remember your trip. If you don’t want a picture taken, you can just politely decline. And there’s no charge unless you decide to buy the picture.

56. Don’t Expect to Drink the Alcohol Bought in Port

If you think that bottle of tequila you just bought in Cozumel will make for a fun evening, think again. Just like on embarkation day, you can’t bring on bottles of booze from ports. Anything bought in port will be held on the ship and delivered back to your stateroom the night before you leave.

57. Be Careful, Cruises Are Addicting

You sure you want to take that first cruise? One thing they don’t tell you in all the brochures is how addicting it can be. A week of being catered to, eating great food, and visiting multiple exotic ports is hard to forget when you head back to work after your trip. In fact, many people book their next cruise while on the ship. But let’s be honest… there are worse habits to have than a cruising habit!

Related Articles:

• The Must-Read First-Time Cruise Guide for New Passengers
• 22 Basic Things Every First-Time Cruiser Should Know
• The 8 Things First-Timers Forget to Pack for a Cruise

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, how to watch football on a cruise (nfl and college games), cruise line drink package calculator, everything to know about balcony cabins on a cruise ship (read before booking), what to expect when sailing on an old cruise ship (are they worth it), worth it 15 cruise drink package questions & answers to know, explained: differences between large and small(er) cruise ships, 15 comments.

My first cruise next week will tender at Phuket with overnight stay. I’m wondering whether tender boat is usually available round-the-clock and will I be able to get back to the ship at midnight on Day 1? Or should I consider booking a hotel onshore? Thank you.

Not sure on that. Only stayed overnight in a port once and there was an “all-aboard” at midnight so they didn’t want you staying out past that time. It will be a cruise line policy, however, so yours may be different.

Where or who do I find out about Port Fees and taxes how much I should budget.

This will all be disclosed prior to buying. You can price the specific cruise online, but normally just factoring in $100-$200 per person is a quick way to figure it.

Ok I’m confused about the alcohol. Because most I have seen allow two bottles of wine per cabin (Either per port or per cruise). But this says you won’t get it until after the cruise?

No, you can bring on bottles of wine/champagne. Anything bought in port will be held until the last day of the cruise and then delivered to your room the last night.

Thank you for explaining that your room key acts more like a credit card on a cruise. My wife and I are planning on taking a cruise at the end of the year as a way to celebrate the coming of the new year. This will be our first time, so these tips you shared will help us make sure we have a great experience during the cruise.

I’m planning my trip first cruise. When choosing a balcony cabin on a large cruise, is it better on the upper decks, middle or lower? There seem to be price differences for different decks. Rom is there no difference? Thank you for infor.

To us it doesn’t really matter. It’s more about where you want to be in proximity to other parts of the ship. For example, most of the indoor amenities (casino, shopping, etc) are in the middle of the ship. Outdoor amenities are on the higher decks. So it’s really about if you mind taking the stairs or elevators to get back and forth.

My favorite part of this article is when you said that booking the balcony room is the best choice. As you mentioned, it is perfect for those who take their time in the morning while drinking a cup of coffee with a view. This is perfect for my husband and me because my husband is way too slow in the morning since he is a night owl. Actually, ever since we were dating, he would never choose to go out in the morning. Thanks!

Wow, it’s interesting that you said that there are no luggage fees in cruises, and we can bring as much as items as we want to. My family and I are going to look for a cruise trip for summer because it has been of our dreams ever since my husband and I got married. Our kids were also very excited when we told our plans with them. We will keep these tips in mind. Thanks a lot!

is there smoking cigarettes on a carnival cruise

Yes there is, but only in designated areas. It’s not allowed in your cabin or on your balcony.

Just returned from our first cruise and I am so glad I read your ‘tips and advice’! They really helped! And yes, they are ‘addicting’! Already booked for this summer out of NYC on a 4 night with new Carnival ship to Bermuda!!! YAY!!

Love to hear you had a great time!

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14 Savvy Tips For Visiting Cozumel on a Cruise

The 5 big reasons why you shouldn’t take a cruise, the best time to book your cruise (save money, better cabins), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

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75 Genius Cruise Hacks and Tips: Get Organized, Save Money, Cruise Better

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Going on a cruise and looking for the best cruise hacks, tips and tricks? Whether you’re a first time cruiser or seasoned veteran, we can always use more cruise hacks to get organized, save money and have a better cruise vacation!

In fact, after more than 25 cruises, I’m always learning new things from other cruisers and I’m so happy to pass these tips along to you. Consider this post the Ultimate Cruise Hacks Guide!

In this post I share 75 awesome cruise hacks that cover everything from packing for your cruise , saving money, cruise food, managing seasickness and more!

75 Cruise Hacks, Tips and Tricks – The Ultimate Guide

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.

Cruise Packing Hacks

Here are some handy things to bring on your cruise to keep organized as well as some cruise packing tips.

1. Packing cubes

There are many ways to use packing cubes to be organized as you pack for your cruise.

• Use different colored packing cubes for each member of the family
• Use packing cubes to place outfits together, or organize by types of clothing (ie. t-shirts, shorts, bathing suits)
• Don’t unpack every packing cube. Some packing cubes can be unzipped and placed directly on a shelf or in a drawer in your cruise cabin

Recommended: Packing cubes (this set has over 9000 5* reviews on Amazon)

2. Travel luggage scale

If you’re flying to and from your cruise ship, you’ll want to make sure that you don’t go over your luggage weight allowance. Typically, we buy a few souvenirs or extra t-shirts and your suitcase may weigh more than you think. An electronic travel luggage scale is a useful travel gadget to pack.

Recommended: Travel luggage scale (check price & 25000+ Amazon reviews)

3. Luggage tag holders

Save time and add convenience by printing your cruise luggage tags and placing them in these plastic luggage tag holders. They’re reusable and inexpensive as well.

Recommended: Luggage tag holders (find your cruise line tags here)

4. Make your luggage stand out

So many of us have black or navy luggage, and this can make it hard for your luggage to stand out and for you to find it at the cruise terminal or airport. There are a few simple things you can do, to recognize your luggage quickly

• Add bright ribbon or yarn to the handles of your luggage
• Cover your luggage with a decorative sleeve

5. Mix your suitcase items

Worried about lost luggage? Unfortunately losing a piece of luggage can happen when flying. Even though it likely will be found and sent to you in a day or two, you won’t want to be stuck without clothing and your necessities.

To avoid this problem, make sure to pack a few items of clothing in your travel companion’s bag, and vice versa. This way, at least you and your spouse still have at least a couple of things to wear and you won’t be stuck.

6. Pack an embarkation day carry on bag

A very important tip for first time cruisers , make sure to pack a cruise carry on bag to bring on the ship on embarkation day . It will take a few hours for your luggage to be delivered to your cabin after boarding your cruise ship , and this way you’ll have your first day essentials.

Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit or even put it on under your clothes if you plan on hitting the pool as soon as possible!

Recommended: Carry on bag tote (see reviews & style options on Amazon here) 

7. Bring extra reading glasses and sunglasses

Many cruisers report losing their reading glasses or even their sunglasses . It’s a good idea to bring an inexpensive pair of each of these just in case.

Cruise Cabin Storage Hacks

8. bring magnets.

An awesome cruise hack you should know is that most cruise cabin walls are actually metal (covered of course). So, if you bring magnet hooks then you can actually add extra storage space to your cruise cabin. You can hang backpacks, bathing suits to dry, and more.

Make sure that the magnets are “heady duty” , as other ones won’t be strong enough. Small magnet clips can also be very convenient to organize your papers, tickets and invitations.

Recommended: Magnet hooks (see details & Amazon reviews here) 

9. Over the door organizer

Many cruisers like to use an over the door hanging organizer to place items such as sunscreen, bud spray, hair accessories, and more. This can be especially helpful if you’re on a family cruise and looking for ways to keep as organized as possible.

Recommended:   Hanging Over the door cabin organizer

10. Hanging toiletry bag

Keep your toiletries organized and out of the way by packing them in a hanging toiletry bag . Cruise bathroom space tends to be limited, so a hanging bag makes use of the vertical space on the bathroom door or cabin wall.

Recommended: Hanging toiletry bag (see 5 color options & Amazon 5* reviews here)

11. Request extra hangers

While you can put your clothes away on the shelves or in a drawer, you’ll minimize wrinkles on your clothing if you can hang as much as possible. When meeting your cabin steward on after boarding on the first day , make it a point to request several extra hangers.

12. Poo-Pourri

Cruise stateroom bathrooms are small and so are the cabins, so bathroom smells might be more obvious than you’d like. Many cruisers bring Poo-Pourri bathroom spray as part of their cruise essentials packing list .

Recommended: Poo-pourri bathroom spray

13. Portable fan

The temperature can be hard to regulate in your cabin, so if you tend to get warm, especially at night, you can bring along a small portable fan . This one is battery operated as well as by USB for convenience.

Recommended: Portable travel fan (rechargeable battery & USB)

14. Motion sensor nightlight

If you’re in an interior cabin or if you tend to sleep with the black out curtains at night, consider bringing a motion sensor nightlight or battery operated tea lights. This way, if you need to get up to go to the washroom during the night you won’t disturb your partner, nor will you stub your toe.

Recommended: Motion activated nightlight

15. Laundry tip

Bring a pop up laundry hamper or mesh bag to keep your dirty clothes stored away in your stateroom.

An extra hack I recently learned from other cruisers, is to bring along a scented kitchen bag. You can use this when you pack your laundry in your luggage, to keep things smelling fresher.

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Money Saving Cruise Hacks

16. book a guarantee cabin.

Did you know that cruise lines will often charge you a $100 plus per person for the privilege of choosing a cabin. If you aren’t too picky about your stateroom location, a great way to save hundreds per cruise is to opt for a guarantee cabin .

17. Cruise when it’s less crowded

Now who wouldn’t want to cruise when there are less people? Well, this is another way to say to cruise during the shoulder season for popular cruise itineraries like Alaska , the Mediterranean and Bermuda . You could save 50% or more!

18. Choose an interior cabin

The least expensive cabin for all cruise ships will be interior staterooms . If you don’t think you’ll be in your room much, skip an oceanview or balcony stateroom and stay in a cozy inside room.

Related:   15 Best Tips for Cruising in an Inside Cabin: cabin organization and more

Related:   7 Reasons Why You Should Book an Inside Cabin

19. Book your own shore excursions

Save money in cruise ports of call by booking your own shore excursions or even by touring on your own. This can work well when you can take a taxi to a local beach or in a city where it’s easy to do a Hop On Hop Off bus tour.

Cruise tip: Always be careful to make it back to the cruise ship on time. If you have any concerns then avoid potential mistakes by booking with the cruise line .

Related:   11 Cruise Shore Excursion Day Tips

20. Bring wine

Most cruise lines will allow you to bring a bottle of wine , per person, on a cruise. Unless you have a beverage package , bringing your own wine is an awesome money saving cruise hack .

21. Bring your own drinks

Many cruise lines allow you to bring on a case of water bottles or even a small case of soda on embarkation day.

Related:  What Food and Drinks Can You Bring on a Cruise ?

22. Level up your cruise knowledge

One of the best ways to save money on all aspects of cruising is through knowledge. Some people seem to find the best cruise deals and are cruising several times a year. However, they’ve learned a few things to make this possible.

Emma Cruises has an awesome course where she teaches this, and more. This is a great course for new and seasoned cruisers.

*Exclusive discount for our readers – use code LIFEWELLCRUISED for 10% off*

See details here: Emma Cruise Academy “How to Cruise for Less”

23. Monitor for price drops

While booking as early as possible is usually the best way to save money when booking a cruise , prices can actually come down after you book. To make sure you can take advantage of price drops, monitor the price of your cruise and cabin category. If the price has decreased before final payment, ask the cruise line or your travel agent for a price adjustment – in most cases they will do so.

Something to keep in mind, is that although a price may be lower, it may not include some of the extras or perks you had with your original price. Make sure you get the best deal by looking at the overall value. 

Related:  Best Way to Book a Cruise? Travel Agent, Direct or Online

24. Book a specialty restaurant the first night of your cruise

Cruisers have reported discounts and even a free bottle of wine given as a bonus if you book specialty dining the first night of your cruise. Readers have noted this on Carnival Cruises and Celebrity, but this may be possible on other cruise lines as well.

25. Book onboard

Plan on booking your next cruise while onboard. If you do need to sit down to go over options, make sure to make an appointment with the Future Cruise Desk early in the cruise.

The benefit is that you can get a nice on board credit to use on your next cruise, or sometimes on the cruise you’re on. If you aren’t sure of what cruise you want to take next, as if you can put a deposit on an open date instead so you can cruise shop when you get home.

Related:  Cruise On Board Credits (OBC): How Can You Use Them?

Cruise Food Tips and Hacks

26. avoid the buffet on embarkation day.

Cruise ship buffets are usually really good, but they get especially crowded on embarkation day. Head to the Main Dining Room instead for a quick sit down meal, or look for any of the amazing casual restaurants that might be open on boarding day .

If you’re heading on a Princess cruise, try the International Cafe or Alfredos (you won’t regret it).

Related:  Princess Cruises Alfredo’s Pizzeria Review (with photos) 

27. Order 2 main dishes

Did you know that on most cruises, you can order as many dishes as you like? So, if you love steak and also love shrimp, ask your waiter for both and make it “surf & turf”.  On some cruise lines they’ll combine the dishes on one plate, with only one serving of the sidedish.

28. Have appetizers on your balcony

If you’re going for a late dinner, consider heading up to the buffet and making a plate of cheese and crackers or charcuterie and bringing it back to your cabin. Pour yourself a glass of wine and enjoy pre-dinner appetizers on your private balcony.

29. Ask for off menu items

While you can’t do this each night, if you did really enjoy a dish, as your waiter if the chef may be able to prepare it another evening. There may be other items not on the menu that are easy to get. Ask for fresh fruit for dessert, gelato or even a cheese plate. You may even want to ask for an ice cream sundae, often available on the kid’s menu.

30. Get free room service

Have an early shore excursion? Consider ordering a free room service continental breakfast. While not every cruise line includes free room service at all hours (we love the ones that do!), many will have free room service for a simple breakfast.

31. Get free gourmet ice cream or sorbet

Many cruise ships have a specialty ice cream shop onboard, which is not included. However, it might surprise you to know that most cruise lines actually make their own delicious ice cream, gelato and sorbet to use in the main dining room for desserts.

If you don’t want to pay extra for name brand ice cream, go to the main dining room, even for lunch, and ask for the ice cream of the day. There may even be an included ice cream counter in the buffet area.

32. Get “free” candy

While you’d have to buy licorice and other candies in the convenience store or candy shop, you can actually get free candy, used as ice cream toppings, at the ice cream counter in the buffet.

Weight Management Tips

As much as we all love cruise food and tend to indulge, we all want to avoid too much weight gain on a cruise . Here are a few cruise hacks that can help.

33. Take the stairs

Cruise ships are big and have so many decks. By taking the stairs as much as possible, even part way, you’ll get those steps in balance out some of the extra indulgences.

34. Use the jogging track

There is usually no better view than from the jogging and walking tracks. They’re usually located at the top of the cruise ship and you can see the sea in every direction. Perhaps start the morning off with a 30 minute walk or head to the track later in the day.

35. Use the fitness centre

I love the gym on a cruise ship! It’s usually located in the front of the ship and I like going there much more than I enjoy the gym at home 😉

You may want to use some of the equipment or even try out some of the classes. Please note that some classes will be included on your cruise, while others will have an extra charge .

36. Get a low calorie dessert

If you feel that you are eating a bit too much rich and high calorie foods, order a low calorie dessert. Cruise lines have delicious lower fat and healthier food options available for all cruise passengers.

37. Skip the frozen cocktails

One of the best things you can do to avoid gaining weight on a cruise is to skip high calorie frozen drinks like Pina Coladas and BBC’s (Banana Baileys Colada). Instead, opt for refreshing drinks like a Mojito or even a diet soda and rum.

Related: How NOT to Gain Weight on a Cruise (and still eat)

Cruise Outfit Planning Hacks

Some of these cruise hacks and genius tips that come from readers and viewers. Many of these are simple things hat you can do that will make cruise packing and outfit planning easier.

38. Pin jewelry to clothing

This recent tip is brilliant. If you have a necklace or earrings that you plan on wearing with an outfit, simply pin it to the fabric or put it in a plastic baggie. A simple trick for necklaces that tend to get tangled is to use a straw. Pass it through and this really works!

39. Plan your cruise outfits for each night

Many ladies avoid overpacking by planning out their outfits for each night of the cruise. If you plan on mixing and matching and re-wearing some items, you can even take a photo with your phone as a reminder.

40. Use a cruise travel planner

Born out of necessity, as I have forgotten items more than once, I created a printable cruise planner that you may find useful. It covers everything from cruise planning, checklists for embarkation to disembarkation tips , packing checklists, a cruise outfit planner and more.

See what’s included and details here ($10 off for a limited time): Ultimate Cruise Planner

Cruise Wifi Hacks

Cruise ship internet just isn’t like on land, so you can expect it to be slower and more expensive on a cruise. However cruise lines have made great strides, and it’s significantly better now than only a few years ago.

41. Book a Wifi package online

If you need to work on the cruise or even keep in touch with people, consider an internet package. The best price you’ll get is by purchasing an internet package in your cruise planner online before your cruise.

We saved 35% on Voom , Royal Caribbean’s wifi package, by making a pre-cruise purchase. Princess Cruises MedallionNet is also often priced at a 50% discount if you purchase it early.

42. Receive messages and notifications

If you don’t plan to use the internet while on a cruise, but still want people to reach you just in case, let them know they can still send a message. Many people report receiving text messages, even when in airplane mode. However, make sure you don’t respond until you have free wifi.

43. Download the cruise line app

Nowadays it’s super important to download the cruise line app for online check in, emuster and more. However, there is often a messaging part of the app which is very useful to communicate with other people on the cruise.

44. Use Free Wifi in cruise ports of call

In most ports of call , there will be some free wifi in the cafes or even in an entire section of the cruise port. This is a good time to take a break and check your emails and social media if you haven’t been doing so on the cruise.

Tip: Ask the crew or simply watch where the crew go for free wifi. They know all the tips and tricks since they return to the port regularly.

Related:   27 Cruise Packing Mistakes You Might be Making

How to Get Free Stuff on a Cruise

45. join contests.

One of the best ways to get freebies on a cruise is to participate in different contests and raffles. Prizes for participating range from a keychain to a bottle of champagne. Every so often, you’ll see some cruise contests or games where jewelry is the prize as well.

46. Free massage

After you board your cruise , go ahead and check out the spa. In order to promote their services, it’s common for the spa staff to be doing mini massages. You’ll often find embarkation day promotions if you book an appointment for later in the week.

47. Free On Board Credit (OBC)

Get additional on board credit by booking the cruise during a promotion. This may be with the cruise line, however a few times a year, travel agencies specializing in cruise travel will run additional sales and the value of the OBC can be double or more.

Related:  50 Must-Have Cruise Essentials to Bring on a Cruise

Get Free or Cheap Drinks

48. go to the champagne art auction.

Most cruise ships will have 1 or 2 Champagne Art Auctions during a sailing. There’s no purchase necessary and it can be a fun way to learn about some interesting established and up and coming artists.

49. Past passengers cocktail party

If you’re a return passenger, you’ll likely receive an invitation to a past passenger cocktail party or event. Most of the time, wine, cocktails and canapes are served.

Make sure to arrive early as the drinks do tend to stop being served after about 30 minutes.

50. Join a drink making contest

On some fun loving cruise lines, one of the activities will be a drink making competition of sorts. When you participate, you’ll likely get a free drink.

51. Drink of the Day

Most cruise lines have a special drink of the day offered at a reduced price. While not free, it will likely be a few dollars less than other similar drinks on the menu. Look for happy hours and 2 for 1 specials as well.

52. Liquor tasting

Make sure to check the cruise activities daily schedule and watch out for the free liquor tasting. This is often done to promote some of the duty-free liquor sold on the cruise , where they’ll be giving out samples you may enjoy.

Related:   20 Ways to Save on Your Family Cruise

Cabin Upgrade Tips

Book early for the best cabin choice. However, if you want to snag a cabin upgrade, there are a few tips to try.

53. Guarantee cabin

Although you won’t choose a specific cabin, a  guarantee cabin is usually the best priced cabin in the cabin type. Often the price will be discounted by $100 or more per person, and you’re guaranteed that category or higher.

Most of the time, you’ll get at least 1 category upgrade, and if you’re lucky, you may get a much better cabin than you paid for.

54. Bid for an upgrade

Once you book your cruise and choose a cabin, if there’s availability, the cruise line will send you an email offering you a chance to bid for an upgrade. While there’s a minimum bid set, you can choose with category to bid on, including suites. You may just get a major upgrade for a minimum price.

55. Call and ask

If you’ve made your final payment on your cruise, but you see that cabins are still available on your sailing, call your cruise line or travel agent and ask if it’s possible to get an upgrade. You just never know, however I’ve seen it happen from time to time.

Related:  10 Worst Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Seasickness Tips

56. green apples.

Want a cruise hack that really works to ease motion sickness ? Green apples actually help to ease queasiness and mild seasickness. In fact, we first learned about green apples from crew members who use green apples as a natural remedy for motion sickness.

Since green apples will usually be available in the buffet, take one or two back to your cabin ready to slice up and eat if you need them at any time.

57. Ginger candies

Another natural remedy for seasickness is ginger. While you can eat small pieces of ginger, and this may be given out on some cruise lines, it’s easier to pack ginger candies and bring them onto your cruise. I love ginger candies and bring them on every cruise, just in case.

Recommended:   Ginger Candies (check price & see Amazon reviews here)

58. Seabands and medication

Many veteran cruisers use seabands and swear by them. If you’re sensitive to motion and may get seasick, make sure to pack seabands and even some Bonine motion sickness medication just in case.

Recommended: Seabands (see Amazon reviews) & Bonine (my favorite)

59. Plan for boats and tenders

One thing many people don’t think about, is that even if they don’t get seasick on a cruise, small boats and tenders to get off the ship may be a different story. I have a friend who did a whale watching excursion and instead of enjoying it, she was so sick. A good tip is to take Bonine or another non-drowsy seasickness medication, use seabands or even a motion sickness patch behind your ear.

Related:   10 effective Ways to Prevent & Deal with Seasickness on a Cruise

Cruise Booking Tips

60. use a travel agent for extra perks.

Travel agents often have extra perks that they can give you when you book with them. When using a travel agent, whether local or online, make sure that they have experience and specialize in selling cruises.

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

61. Book onboard

Booking a cruise while you’re on a cruise is often a great way to save money and get extra on board credits . Sometimes, you can make an open booking, which is great of you aren’t 100% sure which cruise you’d like to so next.

62. Arrive a day before your cruise

This tip is often repeated, but for good reason. Anything can happen, especially if you’re flying into your cruise port. Always plan to arrive at least one day before your cruise for peace of mind, plus you can visit your embarkation port city and extend your vacation .

63. Book excursions online (pre-cruise)

Along with online check in, it’s a good idea to pre-plan cruise excursions by booking them in advance. Often, the price will be less expensive than booking on the cruise ship and you’ll avoid disappointment of an excursion selling out.

64. Research your cruise ports

While you can book cruise line shore excursions, in some cases it can be easy and give you more freedom to head to a beach or do a walking tour on your own. Of course, you always want to be safe and never miss the cruise ship so research is key.

Find out info on specific cruise ports by reading reviews on Cruise Critic and other review sites and consider joining facebook groups and roll calls for your sailing. You may even find some fellow cruise passengers who want to organize a private tour together, which is common on some cruise itineraries.

We did this on our Mediterranean cruise and it worked very well.

65. Get travel insurance

Make sure you have travel insurance for your cruise . Often, the cruise line’s insurance has limitations on medical coverage, so it’s a good idea to research and buy cruise travel insurance that will fit your needs.

Related:  What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Cruise Shore Excursion Tips

66. when to book excursions with the cruise line.

While you might save money by doing excursions on your own or booking privately, there are times when booking with the cruise line is your best bet.

If the activity or excursion is a full day or very far away, booking with the cruise line is a safer option.

Why? When you book with the cruise line it comes with an assurance that the ship won’t leave without you if your excursion is late. Unfortunately, anything can happen – there may be traffic or a taxi or bus may break down. It’s not as rare as you’d think (just google the YouTube videos).

67. DIY your shore excursion

Research your cruise port and see if you can visit easily on your own. Many cruise ports have beaches or attractions that are close by and easily accessible by taxi or walking.

For example, when we visit the island of St. Thomas on a cruise , we love to go to Magens Bay Beach on our own . When in Bermuda we head over to Horseshoe Bay Beach by shuttle.

It’s less expensive and we get more time at the beach.

68. Ask the crew for suggestions

This tip is not used nearly enough to get some great advice for visiting the cruise ports. The crew return to the ports almost every week, so they often know some of the best places to visit, as well as how to do it economically and safely. After all, they need to return to the ship even more than passengers!

I usually ask the people who work in the shops, because we’ve learned that they have more time off during the day than the waiters and cabin stewards. We’ve gotten great beach, restaurant and bar suggestions in the past. Of course the shore excursion desk staff are super helpful, and will often give you a map and some tips and recommendations.

69. Port lectures

Most cruise lines will have port lectures or port shopping talks . While in some destinations, the focus is on steering you to buy watches and jewelry or locally made items, which may or may not be your interest, we’ve found some talks to be very informative.

When in Europe, our experience was that the lectures were full of information about the sights and culture, as well as what to expect.

Important Cruise Tips & Reminders

70. put your phone on airplane mode.

When you sail in international waters, your mobile phone plan won’t usually cover. It can be common for people who forget to put their phone in airplane mode to have huge, unexpected cell phone charges. Put your phone in airplane mode before Sailaway to avoid this rookie cruiser mistake .

71. Bring refillable water bottles

Water is safe to drink on the ship, however many people like to have refillable water bottles to keep hydrated throughout the day. This is especially important when leaving the ship on cruise port days and excursions.

Make sure to pack a refillable water bottle as part of your cruise essentials packing list .

72. Bring plastic bags

Perhaps bringing plastic ziploc style baggies aren’t the most important thing in the world, but they sure are handy. You can use large ziplocks to place wet bathing suits after an excursion and smaller ziplocks to take snacks or a muffin from the buffet.

If you’re cruising with kids , you’ll see some pretty good tips in this post:  10 Cruise Experts Share Their Best Tips for Cruising with Kids

73. Check your passport

Friendly reminder – it’s been a while that many of us have traveled out of our country. Check your passport for the expiry date and make sure to renew way in advance. This is taking much longer than usual, and passports need to be valid for at least 6 months before you travel in many countries.

74. Get organized

I’ve heard so many people say that they’re finding it “harder” to travel these days, and this is true, but in most cases not as hard as it seems. Being organized and having everything in one place is more important than ever, and will be so helpful.

A) Proof of Vaccine

Keep your vaccine card and information in the same place as your passport. We’re using a passport wallet for this and will bring it on our cruise.

Here’s what we’re using: passport wallet (RFID)

B) Group booking emails

Group your cruise booking or reservation, flights, hotels, excursions and other emails pertaining to your cruise in an email file folder. It will be much easier to look things up and reference when everything is in one place.

C) Use a printable cruise travel planner

I like to have everything in one place and really like to write things down. If you’re the same, you’ll love the Ultimate Cruise Planner .

This is a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with several packing checklists, cruise port planning forms, payment trackers and more. The nice thing is that you can print out as many pages as you need, helpful as plans sometimes change.

Here are the details & what’s included: Ultimate Cruise Planner ($10 off for a limited time)

Things Not to Forget on Your Cruise

75. make your cruise easier with these cruise travel accessories.

“Cruise-approved” non -surge power bar with USB outlets

Cruise luggage tag holders

Passport wallet case

Hanging toiletry bag

Packing cubes

Magnet hooks

Portable electronic travel scale

Water-proof phone case lanyard

Vaccine card protector cruise lanyard

Carry on bag (nautical style)

Over the door hanging organizer

For a full list of cruise accessories please read this post next:   50 Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon

Ultimate Cruise Hacks Video

Need more cruise hacks? In this video  I go over 50 amazing cruise hacks, tips and information. It’s a long one, but totally worth it if you’re preparing for a cruise! It has over 170,000 views so far and I’m so grateful for your shares!

Popular posts to read next:

30 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Needs to Know

50 Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise

27 Cruise Packing Mistakes You Might Be Making

20 Cruise Packing Tips all Cruisers Need

21 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On

25 Cruise Embarkation Tips and Secrets

Final Thoughts: 75 Genius Cruise Tips and Hacks

Planning for a cruise is different than other types of vacations. In this post we shared 75 smart cruise hacks from saving money, to cruise food and drinks, to getting organized and more!

I’m always learning new cruise tips and tricks from other cruisers, so please share your cruise hacks 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!

Let’s connect:

Join me on Facebook at Life Well Cruised

Join me on YouTube at Life Well Cruised  (Vlogs and cruise tips)

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Join me on Instagram at Life Well Cruised

I look for your videos every day. I do want to let you know that I have an airline stewardess that I watch her YouTube vids too. She said something I thought I’d mention to you. A J-hook. She said the J-hook takes a lot off the top of the suitcase to keep from hurting your back. I’ve looked at them on Amazon.

Thanks for mentioning this. I’m going to have to take a look and give it a try. I really appreciate you watching my videos and taking time to comment on my posts 🙂

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

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

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

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

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

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

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

Get the lay of the land ASAP.

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

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

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

— Kelly Cochrane, executive chef, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For the best sunsets, head to the observation deck.

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

— Allan Ortiz, head sommelier, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

ullstein bild/Getty Images

Explore all your shore excursion options.

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

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

Don’t overlook night time excursions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

– Kelly Cochrane

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

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

— Sean Harris, managing editor, Family Destinations Guide  

Don’t limit your vacation to the sailing dates.

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

— Andrea Galvez

Bloomberg/Getty Images

Share your special moments with the crew ahead of time.

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

— Jeremy Clubb, Founder, Rainforest Cruises

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

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

— Carol Cabezas, president, Azamara  

Always read the daily itineraries.

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

— Ryzsard Gusmann, hotel director on Azamara Quest

Let yourself enjoy a full day at sea.

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

— Carlos Caicedo, Marketing Manager, Luxury Cruise Connections

John Elk/Getty Images

Tip accordingly. 

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

— Fernando Diez, marketing director, Quasar Expeditions , 

Have dietary restrictions? Speak directly to the chef.

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

— Chris Dodds

Book specialty dining as soon as possible.

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

Ask about a chef’s table experience.

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

Bring a converter just in case.

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

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

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

Traveling with kids? Try connecting rooms.

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

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