Do’s and Don’ts on a Cruise: A Guide for First-Timers

AvatarByDale Richard Cruise/Cruising

Do’s and Don’ts on a Cruise

A cruise is a great way to see the world, relax, and have some fun. But before you set sail, there are a few things you should know about what to doand what not to doon a cruise.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of do’s and don’ts for cruising, so you can make the most of your trip.

We’ll cover everything from packing tips to dining etiquette to safety precautions. So whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, read on for all the information you need to know!

Do’s Don’ts Explanation
Pack light Overpack You’ll have to carry your luggage around, so it’s best to keep it as light as possible.
Dress in layers Wear only one layer The weather can change quickly on a cruise, so it’s best to be prepared by wearing layers that you can easily remove or add as needed.
Bring your own sunscreen Reuse the sunscreen from the ship The sunscreen that’s provided on the ship is often not very good, so it’s best to bring your own.
Stay hydrated Don’t drink too much alcohol It’s important to stay hydrated, especially when you’re in the sun all day.
Explore the ports of call Stay on the ship the whole time One of the best things about taking a cruise is getting to explore new places.
Tip your crew Don’t tip the crew The crew works hard to make your cruise a great experience, so it’s customary to tip them.

Do’s On A Cruise

Book your cruise early

Booking your cruise early can save you a lot of money. Cruise lines often offer discounts for bookings made well in advance. Additionally, you’ll have a wider selection of cabins to choose from.

Choose the right cruise line and ship

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, each with its own unique offerings. Some cruise lines cater to families, while others cater to adults only. Some cruise lines offer more luxurious experiences, while others offer more affordable experiences. Consider your budget, interests, and travel style when choosing a cruise line and ship.

Pack the right clothes

The weather can vary greatly from one port of call to the next, so it’s important to pack a variety of clothes. You’ll also want to pack comfortable shoes for walking around the ship and exploring the ports of call. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, sunscreen, and sunglasses.

Get a travel agent

A travel agent can help you book your cruise, find the best deals, and plan your itinerary. A travel agent can also be helpful if you have any questions or problems during your cruise.

Set a budget

It’s important to set a budget before you go on a cruise. This will help you avoid overspending. Keep in mind that there are many ways to spend money on a cruise, from onboard activities to souvenirs.

Get travel insurance

Travel insurance can protect you in case of illness, injury, or other unexpected events. It can also help you if your luggage is lost or stolen.

Research the ports of call

Before you set sail, take some time to research the ports of call on your itinerary. This will help you make the most of your time in each port. Find out what there is to see and do, and what the best restaurants and shops are.

Consider shore excursions

Shore excursions are a great way to explore the ports of call on your cruise. They can take you to popular tourist destinations, or they can offer more unique experiences. Shore excursions can be booked through the cruise line or through a third-party company.

Take advantage of the onboard activities

There are many different onboard activities to choose from on a cruise. You can relax in the spa, work out in the gym, or enjoy a game of bingo. There are also usually plenty of shows and concerts to keep you entertained.

Make new friends

One of the best things about taking a cruise is meeting new people from all over the world. There are usually plenty of opportunities to socialize on a cruise, from the dining room to the pool deck.

Stay hydrated

It’s important to stay hydrated, especially when you’re in a hot climate. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary drinks like soda and juice.

Enjoy yourself!

A cruise is a vacation, so make sure to relax and enjoy yourself. Take some time to soak up the sun, swim in the pool, and enjoy the onboard activities.

Don’ts On A Cruise

Overspend

It’s easy to overspend on a cruise, especially if you’re not careful. There are many ways to spend money on a cruise, from onboard activities to souvenirs. Set a budget before you go and stick to it.

Get seasick

Seasickness is a common problem for people who are new to cruising. There are a few things you can do to prevent seasickness, such as taking motion sickness medication, eating light meals, and avoiding alcohol. If you do get seasick, there are a few things you can do to relieve the symptoms, such as lying down in a dark, quiet room and sipping on ginger ale.

Miss your ship

It’s important to be aware of the ship’s departure time and location. If you miss your ship, you’ll be responsible for paying for a new ticket. You may also have to forfeit your deposit or entire cruise fare.

Get sunburned

The sun’s rays are stronger at sea, so it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply it often. Cover up with a hat and sunglasses, and avoid spending too much time in the sun during the middle of the day.

Drink too much alcohol

It’s easy to drink too much alcohol on a cruise, especially if you’re not used to it. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to dehydration, hangovers, and other health problems. Stick to moderation and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Go overboard

Going overboard is a serious safety hazard. If you feel yourself getting too close to

Do’S And Don’ts On A Cruise?

Cruises are a great way to see the world and relax on your vacation. But before you set sail, there are a few things you should know about what to do and what not to do on a cruise.

Do’s

  • Bring a reusable water bottle. This will save you money on bottled water and help to reduce plastic waste.
  • Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. The sun’s rays are stronger at sea, so it’s important to protect your skin.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on a cruise, so make sure your feet are comfortable.
  • Take advantage of the free activities. There are usually a lot of free activities offered on cruises, such as swimming, snorkeling, and yoga.
  • Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially in the hot sun.
  • Eat healthy meals. The food on cruises can be very unhealthy, so make sure to balance out your meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Get enough sleep. It’s important to get enough sleep, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of activities during the day.
  • Relax and enjoy your vacation! A cruise is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy your time away from home.

Don’ts

  • Don’t drink too much alcohol. It’s easy to overindulge on a cruise, but it’s important to drink in moderation.
  • Don’t overspend. There are a lot of opportunities to spend money on a cruise, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The crew on a cruise is there to help you, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
  • Don’t miss out on the excursions. The excursions on a cruise are a great way to see the local sights and learn about the culture.
  • Don’t get seasick. If you’re prone to seasickness, there are a few things you can do to prevent it, such as taking medication, eating light meals, and staying hydrated.
  • Don’t be afraid to explore. A cruise is a great opportunity to explore new places and meet new people.

Cruises can be a great way to see the world and relax on your vacation. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can make sure you have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Tips

  • Bring a reusable water bottle. This will save you money on bottled water and help to reduce plastic waste.
  • Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. The sun’s rays are stronger at sea, so it’s important to protect your skin.
  • Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on a cruise, so make sure your feet are comfortable.
  • Take advantage of the free activities. There are usually a lot of free activities offered on cruises, such as swimming, snorkeling, and yoga.
  • Drink plenty of water. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially in the hot sun.
  • Eat healthy meals. The food on cruises can be very unhealthy, so make sure to balance out your meals with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Get enough sleep. It’s important to get enough sleep, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of activities during the day.
  • Relax and enjoy your vacation! A cruise is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy your time away from home.

FAQs

  • What is the best time to book a cruise?

The best time to book a cruise depends on your budget and what you’re looking for in a vacation. The peak season for cruising is from May to September, but you can find good deals on cruises during the shoulder seasons of April and October, and the off-season of November to March.

  • What is the best cruise line for me?

The best cruise line for you depends on your budget, interests, and travel style. There are a variety of cruise lines to choose from, each with its own unique offerings. Some of the most popular cruise lines include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line.

  • What should I pack for a cruise?

The best way to pack for a cruise depends on your destination and the activities you plan on doing. However, there are some essential items that you

Do’s and Don’ts on a Cruise

Do:

  • Pack light. You won’t need as many clothes as you think, and you’ll have to carry your luggage around all day. Stick to the essentials and you’ll be more comfortable.
  • Dress in layers. The weather can change quickly on a cruise, so it’s important to be prepared. Pack a few light sweaters or jackets that you can layer on and off as needed.
  • Bring comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on a cruise, so make sure your feet are happy. Wear comfortable shoes that you can wear all day long.
  • Stay hydrated. The sun and the salt air can dehydrate you quickly, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Explore the ship. There’s a lot to see and do on a cruise ship, so take some time to explore. Visit the different restaurants, lounges, and shops. You might even find a new favorite spot.
  • Try new things. A cruise is a great opportunity to try new things. Sample different cuisines from the ship’s restaurants, or take a class on something you’ve always wanted to learn.
  • Make new friends. You’re surrounded by people from all over the world on a cruise, so take some time to meet new people. You might just make some lifelong friends.

Don’t:

  • Overpack. You don’t need as many clothes as you think, and you’ll have to carry your luggage around all day. Stick to the essentials and you’ll be more comfortable.
  • Bring valuables. Keep your valuables close to you at all times, or leave them in your safe in your cabin. You don’t want to risk losing them while you’re on vacation.
  • Drink too much. It’s easy to get caught up in the party atmosphere on a cruise, but be careful not to drink too much. You don’t want to get sick or make a fool of yourself.
  • Stay out too late. It’s tempting to stay up late and party all night long on a cruise, but it’s important to get your rest. You’ll want to be well-rested for all the activities you’ll be doing the next day.
  • Skip the excursions. The excursions are a great way to see the places you’re visiting and learn about their culture. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience something new.
  • Be afraid to ask for help. The crew is there to help you make your cruise experience as enjoyable as possible. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

    there are many dos and don’ts to keep in mind when taking a cruise. By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience.

Dos:

  • Do your research before you book. This will help you find the best cruise for your needs and budget.
  • Pack light. You won’t need as much as you think, and you’ll have to carry your luggage around a lot.
  • Be prepared for seasickness. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before your trip.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to avoid dehydration.
  • Try new things. Cruise ships offer a variety of dining options, so take advantage of them and try new foods.
  • Explore the ports of call. This is the best way to experience the local culture.
  • Relax and have fun. A cruise is a vacation, so enjoy yourself!

Don’ts:

  • Don’t overspend. Cruises can be expensive, so be sure to set a budget before you start shopping.
  • Don’t bring too much luggage. You’ll only need a few changes of clothes, so pack light.
  • Don’t get seasick. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication before your trip.
  • Don’t drink too much alcohol. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to dehydration and other problems.
  • Don’t miss out on the excursions. This is the best way to experience the local culture.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The crew is there to help you, so don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if you need it.

By following these tips, you can have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable cruise vacation.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.