Cruises can be an exciting way to travel, but if it’s your first time, there are some common mistakes that you’ll want to avoid. From budgeting tips to packing advice, these cruise tips for beginners will help ensure your first voyage is smooth sailing. If you’re looking for first time cruise tips, you’ve come to the right place. Avoiding common cruise mistakes is crucial for beginners. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a long adventure, here’s what you need to know before you step onboard.
Mistake 1: You Have Been Seduced by the Low Price
One of the most important cruise tips for beginners is to not be duped by low prices. A low cruise price can be tempting, but it often comes with trade-offs that first-time cruisers might not consider. These price drops might be due to factors like poor weather conditions, limited activities, or older ships with fewer amenities. Understanding why the price is low can help you avoid disappointment.
- Seasonal Weather: Lower prices often coincide with less desirable weather, like hurricane season in the Caribbean or colder, rainier months in Alaska and Europe.
- Ship and Route Quality: Cheaper fares might mean older ships or less popular routes with fewer attractions.
- Vibe Matters: Not all cruises are created equal. Some cater to party-goers, others to those seeking relaxation or historical exploration. The price might not reflect the experience you’re looking for.
It’s easy to be drawn in by a bargain, but I’ve learned that not all cruises are the same. The season, ship, and route all influence the experience. For instance, cruising the Caribbean during hurricane season might save you money, but you’ll need to be flexible with your plans. Similarly, an older ship might lack the modern amenities you’re expecting.
First Time Cruise Tips for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Research Before You Book: Look into the weather, ship details, and the overall vibe of the cruise before committing.
- Consider the Experience You Want: Make sure the cruise aligns with what you’re hoping to get out of your vacation—not just your budget.
- Read Reviews: See what other travelers have to say about the route, ship, and time of year.
Mistake 2: Overpacking
Overpacking is a common mistake, especially for first-time cruisers. Cruise cabins are notoriously compact, and bringing too much can make your space feel cluttered and cramped. While it’s tempting to prepare for every possible situation, packing smart is the key to a more comfortable trip.
- Stowage Space: Standard suitcases and duffel bags can be easily stored under the bed or at the bottom of closets. However, oversized suitcases are often too thick to fit, leaving you with less room to move around.
- Efficiency Over Excess: Focus on versatile clothing that can be worn in multiple settings and pack only what you truly need.
- Respecting Others’ Space: Overpacking doesn’t just affect you—lugging around extra bags can be a nuisance to fellow travelers, especially in crowded areas like boarding lines or public transport.
While we generally pack light, I remember seeing a traveler on a European commuter train struggling with several large roller bags. Not only did he take up four seats with his luggage, but the locals weren’t shy about voicing their frustration. It was a clear reminder that less is more, especially when navigating busy travel routes.
Cruise Advice for First Timers for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Plan Outfits Ahead: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched for different occasions.
- Use Smaller Luggage: Opt for bags that can fit under the bed or in tight spaces within your cabin.
- Leave Room for Souvenirs: Packing light means you’ll have space for any items you pick up during your trip.
Mistake 3: Flying in the Day of Your Cruise
(and Booking Your Return Flight Too Early)
Here’s some essential cruise advice for first timers; always arrive at your departure city a day early. Flying in on the same day your cruise departs is a risky move that could lead to disaster. Flight delays, cancellations, or other unexpected issues can leave you scrambling—and potentially missing your cruise entirely. Similarly, booking your return flight too early can lead to a stressful departure, as disembarking often takes longer than expected.
- Arriving Before Departure: Delays are common, so plan to arrive a day early.
- Avoiding an Early Return Flight: Even though your ship arrives in port early, disembarkation, customs, and transportation can take hours.
- Stress-Free Travel: Give yourself plenty of time to comfortably reach the airport.
We’ve always made it a point to arrive at the departure city a day before the cruise. This extra time gives us a buffer to handle any unforeseen delays, and it allows us to start our vacation stress-free. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to explore the city before boarding the ship. Additionally, we’ve learned to book return flights with plenty of buffer time. Disembarkation can take longer than expected, and the last thing you want is to rush through customs and miss your flight.
Cruise Tips for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Arrive Early: Book your flight to the departure city for the day before your cruise.
- Allow Extra Time for Return Flights: Consider booking an afternoon or evening flight home.
- Know Your Options: If there is a delayed, have a backup plan for getting where you’re going.
Mistake 4: Eating at the Buffet on Embarkation Day
When you first board the ship, it’s tempting to head straight to the buffet, but so does everyone else. This often results in long lines, crowded seating, and a less-than-relaxing start to your cruise. There are better ways to kick off your vacation.
- Crowded Buffets: Everyone has the same idea, leading to congestion and a chaotic atmosphere.
- Alternative Dining Options: Many ships offer less crowded dining venues where you can relax and enjoy your meal.
- Relax and Unwind: After checking in at the muster station, grab a drink and find a quiet spot on deck instead of rushing to the buffet.
We always check in at the muster station first thing. Some cruises won’t activate your drink package until you’ve done this, and crew members will hunt you down if you skip it. Afterward, we grab a drink and relax on deck while everyone else crowds the buffet. It’s a much smoother start to the trip.
First Time Cruise Tips for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Explore Other Dining Options: Look for alternative dining venues that aren’t as crowded.
- Use the Time to Unwind: Grab a drink, find a lounge chair, and take in the views as you settle into vacation mode.
- Check In Early: Get the muster station check-in out of the way to avoid any interruptions later.
Mistake 5: Taking the Elevator
On embarkation day, elevators are packed with passengers trying to get to their cabins with luggage. Waiting for an elevator can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when you just want to start enjoying your cruise.
- Crowded Elevators: With everyone arriving at the same time, elevators become congested, leading to long waits.
- Take the Stairs: Opt for the stairs, especially if you only have a carry-on or light luggage. It’s quicker, and you’ll avoid the crowds.
- Healthy Choice: Taking the stairs is also a great way to get a bit of exercise after traveling.
We’ve learned to skip the elevator chaos on embarkation day by sticking to the stairs. It’s faster, and after a day of sitting during travel, it’s nice to stretch the legs a bit. Plus, it helps burn off the buffet snacks you might indulge in later!
Cruise Advice for First Timers for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Use the Stairs: If your cabin is only a few decks up or down, the stairs are usually the quickest option.
- Pack Light: Carrying less luggage makes it easier to navigate the stairs.
- Plan Your Arrival Time: Arriving later in the boarding window can sometimes mean fewer crowds, making elevators more accessible.
Mistake 6: Booking Only Cruise Line Shore Excursions
Cruise line shore excursions are convenient but often come with a higher price tag. First-time cruisers might assume they are the only option, but there are alternatives that offer similar experiences at a lower cost
- Higher Costs: Cruise line excursions are often more expensive than independent options.
- Limited Flexibility: Cruise line tours can be more rigid, with less opportunity to explore at your own pace.
- Research Alternatives: Independent tour operators or exploring on your own can provide more personalized and cost-effective experiences.
We haven’t booked shore excursions through the cruise line mainly because of the price. However, with some research, you can find great alternatives. Online forums and communities like Reddit and Cruise Critic are filled with tips from experienced cruisers who share their independent tour experiences.
Cruise Tips for Beginners to Avoiding This Mistake:
- Compare Prices: Research both cruise line and independent tour options before booking.
- Check Reviews: Look for reviews from other travelers to ensure quality and reliability.
- Consider Going Solo: In some ports, it’s easy and safe to explore on your own, giving you the freedom to tailor the experience to your interests.
Mistake 7: Buying Wine by the Glass
Here’s a great cruise hack, bring a bottle or two of wine. Purchasing wine by the glass can become expensive quickly. A more economical approach is to buy a bottle or bring your own onboard, taking advantage of the cruise line’s flexibility with storing and serving your wine across different dining venues.
- Recork and Save: If you don’t finish your bottle, you can ask the waiter to recork it and save it for the next evening. The staff can even transfer your wine between dining venues.
- BYOB: Some cruise lines allow you to bring your own wine onboard with a minimal corkage fee. Drinking your own wine in your cabin is often free.
On our cruises, we’ve found that purchasing a bottle offers more value, especially when you can enjoy it across multiple meals. Plus, bringing your own wine onboard is a great option, especially if you have a favorite bottle.
Cruise Hacks for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Check Policies: Look into your cruise line’s wine policies regarding bringing your own and corkage fees.
- Maximize Value: Take advantage of the option to recork and save your bottle for another meal.
Mistake 8: Only Eating at the Buffet
While the buffet is convenient, it shouldn’t be your go-to for every meal. Many first-time cruisers don’t realize that the ship offers a range of other dining options that provide better quality, variety, and service, especially for those with dietary needs.
- Specialty Restaurants: Some specialty dining venues that charge for dinner offer complimentary lunch menus, giving you a chance to try gourmet options without extra cost.
- Catering to Dietary Needs: The main dining room and other restaurants are better equipped to handle food allergies and special requests. For instance, we always go to the main dining room for breakfast, where gluten-free options like pancakes, French toast, and even bagels are available—things you won’t find at the buffet.
- Included Options: Not all specialty restaurants charge extra; some are included in your cruise fare, providing a unique dining experience without additional cost.
- Elevate Your Experience: Exploring different dining options adds a new layer to your cruise experience, making each meal feel special.
We’ve learned that the main dining room is a hidden gem for breakfast, especially when it comes to accommodating dietary restrictions. The difference in quality and service compared to the buffet is worth the extra effort. Additionally, some specialty restaurants included in the cruise fare offer dining experiences that rival any upscale restaurant on land.
First Time Cruise Tips for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Explore All Dining Options: Don’t limit yourself to the buffet. Look into the main dining room, specialty restaurants, and casual spots.
- Check for Complimentary Meals: Some specialty restaurants offer free lunches, so take advantage of these opportunities.
- Communicate Your Needs: If you have dietary restrictions, let the dining staff know—they’re often more than happy to accommodate.
Mistake 9: Not Booking in Advance
Failing to book ahead is a mistake that can lead to disappointment. Whether it’s missing out on a show, dining at a specialty restaurant, or securing a spot on a popular shore excursion, waiting until you’re onboard can cost you both money and opportunities.
- Advance Reservations: Many cruise lines allow you to book reservations 30 days before your cruise. This includes dining, excursions, and activities, which often fill up quickly.
- Early Bird Deals: Cruise lines often offer discounts on tours, drink packages, Wi-Fi plans, and more if you book online before boarding. Flash deals for shows and other onboard experiences are sometimes available during the booking process but may not be offered once you’re on the ship.
- Avoid Disappointment: Seeing something on the daily planner you’d love to do, only to find it fully booked, can be frustrating. Pre-booking helps avoid this letdown.
- Know the Policies: Some cruise lines allow refunds for pre-booked shore excursions if you change your mind, but others don’t—so be sure to read the fine print.
We’ve seen too many people miss out on experiences because they waited until they were onboard to make decisions. By booking in advance, we’ve secured our favorite dining times, reserved seats for shows, and even saved money on packages.
Cruise Tips for Beginners for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Book Early: As soon as reservations open, make your choices and lock them in.
- Check for Deals: Look for discounts and flash deals before your cruise begins.
- Review Policies: Understand the cancellation and refund policies for anything you pre-book.
Mistake 10: Overpaying for Internet, Phone Calls, and Texts
Staying connected at sea can be expensive if you don’t plan ahead. Cruise ship internet is often slow and costly, and using your phone without an international plan can lead to sky-high bills. It’s crucial to understand your options and set your devices correctly before setting sail.
- Mobile Carrier Plans: Many cell phone carriers offer international plans, but costs can vary. If your carrier doesn’t include international service, your phone should remain in airplane mode throughout the cruise.
- Disconnect to Reconnect: Cruises can be a great time to unplug. We prefer to disconnect entirely, using free Wi-Fi only when in port.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Settings: Even in airplane mode, you can manually enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in your settings to access onboard services or free Wi-Fi in port.
We switched to a mobile carrier that includes international service at no extra charge, which gives us peace of mind without the need for extra purchases. We also make sure to download anything we might need before boarding and only reconnect when in port.
Cruise Advice for First Timers for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Check Your Carrier: See if your carrier offers a reasonably priced international plan before your cruise.
- Use Airplane Mode: Keep your phone in airplane mode and manually enable Wi-Fi when needed to avoid roaming charges.
- Plan to Disconnect: Embrace the opportunity to unplug and relax without constant digital distractions.
Mistake 11: Not Budgeting for Onboard Spending
Onboard spending can quickly spiral out of control if you’re not careful. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overspend on drink packages, spa treatments, photos, and souvenirs. Without a plan, first-time cruisers can find themselves with an unexpected bill at the end of their trip.
- Evaluate the Drink Package: Before purchasing, do the math to ensure the package is worth it for everyone in your cabin. We’ve found that we can have a great time without it.
- Set a Budget: Include everything in your budget, from tips to onboard activities. This will help you stick to your financial plan.
- Cash Tips Make a Difference: We tip our favorite bartender and wait staff well on the first day, followed by $1 per drink or meal. The service we receive is exceptional, and it’s worth the small extra expense.
We always budget for our onboard expenses and avoid unnecessary splurges. By tipping strategically, we get excellent service without overspending. This approach keeps our final bill manageable, allowing us to enjoy our cruise without financial stress.
First Time Cruise Tips for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Plan for Extras: Set aside money for onboard spending, and stick to your budget.
- Skip the Package: If the drink package doesn’t make sense for you, skip it and pay per drink.
- Don’t Forget Cash Tips: A little extra cash for tips goes a long way in enhancing your experience.
Mistake 12: Forgetting Your Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential item for any cruise, yet many first-time cruisers underestimate the sun’s intensity on the open water. Forgetting sunscreen can lead to painful burns, which can ruin your trip and put your health at risk.
- Sun Exposure: The sun is stronger at sea due to reflection from the water. Even on cloudy days, you can get sunburned.
- Packing Smart: Since large containers aren’t allowed on flights, pack a fresh travel-sized sunscreen and consider bringing lightweight long-sleeve shirts and wide-brim hats for extra protection.
- Reapply Often: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
We never board a cruise without a good supply of sunscreen. I’ve also switched to wearing lightweight long-sleeve shirts when swimming or spending extended time outdoors, which provides extra protection without the hassle of constant reapplication.
Cruise Tips for Beginners for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Bring Enough Sunscreen: Pack more sunscreen than you think you’ll need—travel-sized containers are perfect.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Lightweight, UV-protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats can help prevent sunburn.
- Stay Vigilant: Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen frequently, especially after swimming or sweating.
Mistake 13: Returning Late to the Ship
One of the biggest fears for cruisers is missing the ship’s departure because they returned late from a port excursion. The ship runs on a tight schedule, and it won’t wait for late passengers.
- Stick to the Schedule: Always be aware of the “all aboard” time and plan to return at least an hour before.
- Book Wisely: If you book excursions independently, ensure you have enough time to return. Remember, the ship will wait for official cruise line excursions but not for third-party tours.
- Prepare for Delays: Factor in unexpected delays like traffic, long lines, or tendering, and give yourself a buffer.
We’ve always made it a point to be back well before the “all aboard” time. Rushing back to the ship is stressful, and if you miss it, the cost and logistics of catching up can be overwhelming.
Cruise Advice for First Timers for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Plan Ahead: Know the ship’s schedule and give yourself plenty of time to return.
- Use a Buffer: Aim to be back at the port an hour before the ship’s departure time.
- Book Through the Cruise Line: If you’re worried about time, book excursions directly through the cruise line for peace of mind.
Mistake 14: Not Reading the Daily Planner
The daily planner (or cruise newsletter) is your best friend on a cruise. It provides a schedule of all the events, activities, dining options, and important announcements for the day. Skipping it can lead to missed opportunities, confusion, and a less enjoyable experience.
- Daily Activities: The planner lists all the day’s activities, from shows and trivia to dining specials and events.
- Announcements: It also includes important information like time changes, dress codes, and weather updates.
- Planning Your Day: Reviewing the planner each morning helps you prioritize activities and make the most of your day.
We always start our day by reviewing the daily planner. It’s the best way to ensure we don’t miss out on activities, shows, or dining experiences that we’re interested in. It’s especially helpful for finding live music we might enjoy.
First Time Cruise Tips for Avoiding This Mistake:
- Check the Planner Daily: Make it a habit to review the planner over breakfast each morning.
- Highlight Key Events: Mark events and activities you don’t want to miss.
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to announcements and time changes, especially if you have plans in port.
Cruise Like a Pro
Embarking on your first cruise is an exciting experience, but it’s easy to fall into common traps that can dampen your enjoyment. By being aware of these mistakes—from overpacking to overlooking the daily planner—you can make the most of your trip without unnecessary stress. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your cruise is filled with relaxation, adventure, and memories worth cherishing. So pack smart, plan ahead, and get ready to enjoy the smooth sailing ahead!
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