What tips would YOU give to a first-time cruiser?

[Coastalbreezes]

At least once: stay up late and go dancing, have room service, try your luck at Bingo or the casino, try a specialty restaurant, participate in activities you might not try on land (trivia contests, murder mystery dinner, etc)., attend a cooking demo, taste a drink of the day.

 

Also, pack your manners: saying please and thank you with a smile goes a long way on board.

 

If you are with young children, remember to pack their manners too. Same rules as at home: no running, no screaming, don't push every button in the elevator :D

 

Have fun and RELAX! You're on vacation after all.

TracyE

[Sooz]

I always bring a backpack that I can carry and has wheels and can be rolled when I dont want to carry it any more. I place things like tylenol, MOM, bandaids,cough syrup and any RX meds we might need. You will be charged a small bank roll if you need to buy them on the ship. I do not check in the back pack so if we need it before we get our bags are delivered to the room we have it. I also take it on port days and then have a place to stach the things we have bought and will have tylenol and the like with us just in case. You can also put bottled water in it for the port days.

I always pack hangers as we never have enough in the cabin and then I just leave them for the next person to use.

If you have dress clothes that need to be ironed there are irons on board or for a small fee the room stewards will iron for you. I have had things ironed several times .. hay I am on vacation and it is the last thing I want to do.

I always pack an extra bag. The kind that folds up. You always come home with more than you took. Wait till the end of the cruise to buy things on board as there is always a sale at the end of the cruise.

Relax, have a ball, be kind to the staff.

[CapeGal]

So many things get overwhelming when you plan for a cruise and you don't even realize it! BUT: PACK LIGHT. People tend to think they need a ton of wardrobe changes. You don't. Shorts, bathing suits, and comfortable walking shoes. Don't forget your "formalwear" for that evening (if you plan on going).

Make sure you have your meds.

DON'T try to do a ton of excursions! We did and missed so much by just being able to walk and shop. Some of the excursions are all day and before you know it the only thing left to do is return to the ship. No time to see what is available at your leisure.

SUNSCREEN, HATS, SUNSCREEN, HATS!

Be nice to your fellow travelers, and to the crew that takes care of you.

Stay alert. Don't leave your guard at home. Since this is your first cruise, you have to learn the ropes and know what is around you. This though, goes for even the seasoned cruiser.

Have fun and RELAX. Don't come home needing a vacation from your vacation. :cool:

[fllady]

If cruising in a cooler climate, (Alaska, and north Europe etc), dress in layers. The temperatures can fluctuate from what is the "normal" temps for that time of year. Its easier to take it off and tie around waist if it gets too warm and not having to carry around a bulky coat.

[krusin']

:) It seems every angle has been posted to help you on your first cruising experience. There are a few more to add if they weren't there.

Always fill out your on-line info details so that when you arrive at check in it's all there.

If you choose late dining after, 15 cruises we find a good breakfast and a light snack around 4 PM will keep you going and let you enjoy dinner.

If you like room service in the A.M. Always tip the person bringing it a buck or two.

Don't feel intimidated by asking for a large table 8-10 people. We have cruise friends all over the world now.

Heartily agree on flying in one day early and out one day later. We have found that not being in a hurry leaving we can ignore tag colors for disembarkation, get off almost last, and behold our luggage is sitting nearly alone waiting for us. Porters, customs, and cabs are a piece of cake then.

Hoipe your first cruise will leave you planning for more.:D

[krusin']

Fill out all docs. on line.

Always tip the room service staff.

One day early and one day later takes all the stress away. You can avoid the thundering herd getting off near the end and your luggage,porters,customs,and cabs will be a breeze.

Don't be shy ask for a table of 8-10.

You can usually change once with the maitre'd for the 2nd night. We have friends all over the world now to cruise with and visit. It opens a new vista in your life!

Above all enjoy,enjoy,enjoy!!:D

[alphakitty]

I always tell first time cruisers to arrive at port well before (2-3 hours) the documents tell you to board. You'll most likely be on board having lunch when the huge lines form. :)

[AuntBea]

Bring lots of plastic bags - sandwich ones & gallon ones -- you'd be surprised how useful they become. And read ALL of these threads that you even think might help b/c the people on this board are amazing & such a great source of info!!:)

[Grandpaul]

Bring lots of plastic bags - sandwich ones & gallon ones -- you'd be surprised how useful they become. And read ALL of these threads that you even think might help b/c the people on this board are amazing & such a great source of info!!:)

 

Absolutely correct. With all this info that is available you should feel like you have been on many cruises before you go. Become good friends with your room steward and your waiter. They are a good source of information about all phases of cruising. If you have any doubts about what you want to do at any of your ports but you want to do something, take a cab ride. Don't try to do too much on your first cruise. You WILL become addicted so there will be plenty of opportunities in the future.

[donr]

My Tip: Go to the library, get a Fodors or one (or several) of those, read about your destinations, then crosscheck the CruseCritic boards, decide what you want to do and see in advance and book your own shore excursions. Don't feel like you need to do everything see everything, you're supposed to be relaxing, remember?

 

SECOND TIP: Very Important!! Don't stiff the crew on tip day. They get the tips before you get your luggage. Stiff them and you might be surprised at what happens...

[red2black]

1. Bring a mesh laundry bag, you be surprised what you can put in there.

2. Don't forget to bring some beach shoes for the pool or hot tub.

3. The sun gets hotter, some bring your suntan lotion and hair protection.

4. Check out the postings, they are some good suggestions.

 

Lastly, have a good time, you will never forget each cruise. After 10 cruises, I look toward and plan the next one when I arrive back home.

[DiannaInVA]

Don't be afraid to cruise solo! For those of us who don't have a mate, or have friends/family who can't afford or don't want to go, we wouldn't have any other choice. Cruising is a great, safe way to see the world and meet people while doing it.

 

There's a solo forum on cc: http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=373

[albertiger]

READ the Brochure! Everything the cruise line thinks you ought to know (and maybe doesnt WANT you to know;) is in the last few pages.) Requirements, Policies, Liabilities, In Case of Emergency, Whats Included- all the Legalese!:rolleyes:

It gives you a basic understanding of the experience if you're a newbie, and don't be afraid to ask your fellow cruiser!:D

[rac4nd]

I did my first cruise in the fall and the best advice given to me was to join the message boards for my cruise. Our best memories were the small group tours arranged by one of the other cruisers found on the board.

[40yearcruiser]

I pack a small electric clock with LED display because there are no clocks in the cabin and if you wake up in the dark (especially if you have an inside cabin where it's always dark) it allows you to check the time.

 

You might also want an extension cord if you have a lot of electrical things that need to be plugged in (recharging batteries for your camera, curling iron, and the above mentioned clock :), etc.)

 

Bring a good book and allow yourself time to just relax and enjoy. My favorite place on the ship is to sit on the promonade deck with my book to read, watch the other passengers stroll by, and gaze at the ocean! (On the Alaska cruise we just returned from it was too cold for this, but it's great on a warm-weather cruise).

 

Remember you took this cruise to relax so don't try to do everything and see everything on the ship or in the ports.

[jdmgo]

All of these are good pieces of advice - we've cruised on 7 different ships and one of the things I enjoy so much is breakfast served in your stateroom. Just remember to fill out the little order card that is in your room.....place on your door handle at the specified time....and enjoy being treated like a queen the next morning! Coffee/tea/juice, etc in bed! How decadent can it be? If you have a balcony cabin there is nothing like eating out there every morning! Enjoy

[copnlpn2]

My best advice is to take the time to thoroughly read your cruise contract so there won't be any surprises. The contract very plainly states important things a cruiser needs to know and be prepared to accept, such as the cruise line's right to change or eliminate ports of call, or even the right to shorten,lengthen or cancel a cruise for the safety of the passengers.

 

If you know the terms of your contract before you sail, you'll be less likely to be writing irate letters to the cruise lines about something you should have been aware of before you ever sailed. Be sure to read the fine print too.

 

To all new cruisers - Happy Sailing!

 

Cindy

[beebell]

Best tips:

It's a vacation - don't try to do everything, go everywhere and EAT everything!

 

Try new foods - order the appetizer or soup you would not try if you had to pay for it ... you will find some great new treats. Also, you can always eat a salad at home, add an extra entree or appetizer or dessert!

 

You won't spend your time in your cabin - go for an inside cabin in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. The cabins are the same size on each deck, they don't get bigger!!!

 

Budget spending as much in shipboard purchases (drinks, excursions, gifts, special meals, etc) as you spend on the cruise and airfare. If you spend less, great!! If not, you won't have sticker shock the last night when you get your bill. Get a copy of your bill part way through the cruise, either from guest relations or interactively.

 

If you enjoy a leisurely drink, choose "your" bar the first night. Introduce yourself to the bartender, tip more on the first few drinks. You'll be greated warmly, your preferences will be noted and you may get a few surprise samples. Why wait to the end to tip? Also, daily drink specials are usually a bargain, and ask for house brands of liquor if you don't have a preference. They are usually cheaper.

 

Others seem to disagree, but buy your shore excursions on the ship. You won't have to worry about missing the boat, they are often priced the same as common land tours (trolley, Duck, city tours). Sometimes, just strolling ashore, ordering a coffee, spending a few minutes on the Internet and some people watching are a wonderful way to absorb a port. Once you have a few cruises under your belt, then book excursions independently. (I have seen people who are late returning left behind on every cruise!!)

 

When I travel with family or a group, we agree that if you are sitting on the port side of the ship (lounges, buffet, etc) you need some "alone" time. If you are on the starboard, you are welcoming company. This goes a long ways to keep from hurting anyone's feelings when you just want to chill.

 

Don't be afraid to mention this is your first cruise. Your experienced cruising dinner mates (you did ask for a large table, right?), excursion buddies, and others you meet will pass along tips for the ports you are visiting, interesting shipboard activities or places and ways to save money on cruises. You don't have to take all the advice offered, but some of it contains real gems.

 

Spend some time by yourself, bring a book, knitting, ipod, whatever, and find a favorite spot to just relax.

 

You probably won't see any of these people again ... so take part in the Broadway trivia, Mr. Legs contest, karaoke, whatever!!! Most ships have a guest talent show ... take part!!

 

Support local economies, forget the jewelry purchases in the ship-owned stores in EVERY port. Find the unique gift that was handcrafted in the country you are in.

 

Wash your hands!!! Wash your hands!!! Wash your hands!!!

 

When all else fails, remember, it's a vacation!!!

[ayeamcdn]

:) Do It !;)

[rebeljohn]

$$$$Pick a week for your cruise vacation, then sit back and watch the fares on all of the cruises offered that week. If you are flexible, you'll get a great deal by waiting.........

$$$$Traveling with family or a group? Buy just ONE of those group or family photos from the ship and scan it when you get home, and email it to the others..........

$$$$Take your own beverage bottle. You know that fresh squeezed OJ you can only get in the mornings? Fill up the bottle and keep it in your fridge for the rest of the day..........

[born2travel]

The replies posted so far have answered so many first-time cruisers's questions, and provided answers for many questions you didn't even know you had, I bet!

 

However, rules and routes and other things change with the weather, and a multitude of other factors. In Aug, 2001, I never dreamed of having my hands swapped for traces of explosives before boarding an aircraft. By Oct, 2001, it was reality in some airports. Need I say more? Watch the news and be aware.

 

A passport may not be "required" when you book your trip, but if you are leaving your country, GET ONE. It's a few extra dollars but well worth avoiding last minute stress. Vaccines that are viewed as "optional" are a good idea, as well.

 

Most of all, use these message boards. Whatever your personal situation, there is likely someone else who has cruised under similar circumstances and has wonderful advice to offer. Browse, read, and ask questions. No matter how insignificant or silly the question may seem to you, there is always some awesome person willing to share their experience in hopes of making yours better! And some shyer people may benefit, as well, from your bravery in asking.

 

Then, when you come home, don't be afraid to share your impressions and experiences when you think they might help others. Cruising is really wonderful and made even better by being prepared and having realistic expectations.

 

Have a great cruise!

[Rocknsoul]

This may sound strange, but...try to glean the practicals from these boards without letting your expectations get too high. I believe you'll leave with more positive impressions that way.

 

Part of the fun of our first cruise was that we didn't know what to expect. We were surprised by some things, very pleasantly surprised by others, and left feeling like we had had a great vacation.

 

Enjoy!

[Tyffni]

1. Read Cruise Savvy by John Maxtone-Graham.

2. Budget well for incidentals...tips for baggage handles at the airport/pier, ice cream, soda cards, parking at the airport/pier, etc.

3. Bring a lanyard for your room key/charge card

4. Bring your own crossword puzzle/sudoku books (I was unpleasantly surprised by the poor selection).

5. Don't be afraid to try anything. Afterall, when will you see these people again?

6. Don't over drink!!! What fun is a hangover? Besides, too many stupid people fall overboard.

7. "Deals" onboard are not always really deals. This is the one time using the internet to comparison shop on land is valuable (unless you don't mind the extra cost).

8. Bring an extra suitcase for souvenirs, etc. Why is it that I can never pack my dirty clothes as well as when they were clean? I always run out of room!

9. Try to reuse items as much as possible. For example, a pair of sandals that goes with several different outfits or a paseo that can be a bathing suit cover up, a skirt, a dress, a shawl when standing by the rail on a cool night.

10. Be safe on shore. Just because you are on vacation doesn't mean that the criminals are too.

[RSGS315]

And last but not least, bring half the clothes and twice the money!!

 

Ginnie

[Tyffni]

You won't spend your time in your cabin - go for an inside cabin in the middle of the ship on a lower deck. The cabins are the same size on each deck, they don't get bigger!!!

 

For many people this is true, but the best advice is to know yourself. My husband and I enjoy the luxury of a mini-suite...extra space, a bath tub, and a balcony. We wouldn't consider anything less. After all, it is extremely enjoyable to sit in a bubble bath after a long day ashore. It is also enjoyable to have your own private balcony where you can watch the ship pull ashore. On our first cruise, we found it relaxing to sit in our cabin watching different TV shows in the same room (Princess mini-suites have two TVs facing opposite directions so the sound doesn't mix) and not worry about cleaning as we would at home! For others this isn't at all important. You have to make that decision yourself. Nearly everything on these boards are opinions, and you know what they say about them! :)