Top Tips for Cruising

Cruises are getting more popular, extravagant, and over the top each and every year. This is no surprise, as taking a cruise is one of the best vacation options out there. Whether it’s your first time taking a cruise, or your 20th, there’s always something new to learn about how to maximize the experience and have the best vacation ever.

As planning can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you are a newcomer to the cruise world, we are here to help. Here are 7 of the best tips and pieces of advice to have a successful cruise experience, from pre-arrival to embarkation day, and how to stay stress-free along the way.

When packing for your cruise, it’s important to pack smart to avoid any extra baggage fees, delays, or extra hassle during your trip. It’s easy to overpack when it’s your first time on a cruise, such as bringing 3 outfits for each day, 5 different pairs of shoes and bathing suits, and anything else you might think you need. However, all this does is lead to overpaying for luggage fees due to increased weight, and more items for you to keep track of during your trip. When packing for your cruise, remember to keep the following tips in mind:

• -Bring clothing that is color-coordinated so it’s easy to mix and match outfits.
• -Use packing cubes to keep things organized and increase space.
• -Bring a USB octopus so you can charge all your appliances at once.
• -A small backpack is great for pool days, beaches, and port stops.
• -Bring a refillable water bottle to limit plastic bottles used during your cruise. Keep in mind that bottles of water are not free.
• -Pack a bathing suit in your carry-on, as you are likely to make it to the ship long before your luggage gets to your cabin.

You must be at least 21 years of age to participate in gambling in Las Vegas casinos.  Guests that are under the age of 21 can meander and walk through the casinos, but may not participate in drinking, gambling, or standing around tables or slot machines, even with an adult present.

Investing in a beverage package for your cruise can be one of the best financial decisions you can make if you plan on consuming a lot of drinks. While many cruises offer all-inclusive packages, it’s important to read the fine print, as beverage packages tend to be an additional add-on. A drink package can be for alcoholic beverages, or non-alcoholic as well, which is great for families or cruisers with children. Check with your cruise line ahead of time, as many companies allow you to bring a specific amount of liquids on board, such as 2 bottles.

Ports calls are one of the most exciting parts of a cruise, but they are often limited to just a few hours. Do your research ahead of time on the port destination so that you are able to make the most of your experience and know in advance what you would like to do during your time onshore. Book any tour or activity you want to do in advance, have a general idea of the layout and find the best local restaurants to indulge in during your visit.

After the past few years, it’s apparent that anything could happen, and it’s best to be prepared for the worst. Purchasing travel insurance for a cruise is probably the most important tip on the entire list. Whether it’s just for a few days at sea or a 2-week vacation around the Caribbean, having travel insurance is crucial. It can protect you and save cruisers a ton of money if a medical emergency arises, flights are delayed or canceled, natural disaster strikes, or, in most recent years- a global pandemic shuts down the globe. While the majority of cruises go smoothly and steadily, it’s best to be prepared, just in case.

On the first day of your cruise, make it a point to learn the layout and take a tour of the ship. You can discover where all of the best sunbathing locations are, your favorite restaurants or cafes, and all of the different activities offered around the ship. Knowing where everything is located ahead of time will save you loads of time throughout the week, and be a crucial piece of knowledge in case of an emergency or an unfortunate incident was to occur.

Embarkation day is one of the most exciting days of a cruise. It’s the first day, and everyone is excited and more than ready to set sail on the vacation of a lifetime. During this day, not everything single restaurant, shop, or spa will be open and fully functioning, and most cruise lines open up a huge buffet for guests to keep their bellies full. If possible, skip the buffet and take a tour of the ship first. It’s likely 1-2 restaurants will be fully open, with fewer crowds and more cuisine options.

A cruise is likely to be one of your grandest vacation experiences yet- if you come prepared! We hope you’ve enjoyed all these tips and crucial tidbits of information about cruising, and that you refer back here before planning your next vacation at sea! Bon Voyage!