Avoid These 10 Rookie Mistakes On Your First Cruise
Norway is a popular destination for first-time cruisers.
David Nikel
Booking your first cruise can be exciting, as cruise lines continue to expand their offerings with bigger ships, broader itineraries, and new experiences at sea.
But for passengers new to cruising, this variety can also be overwhelming. It is easy to fall into common traps that can impact your enjoyment, and your budget.
Here are ten of the most common mistakes first-time cruisers make, along with practical tips to help you avoid them.
Not all cruise lines are created equal. Some focus on family-friendly activities, while others cater to older travelers or those looking for a more refined experience.
Choosing based solely on price or itinerary is a mistake many first-timers make. Research each cruise line's typical clientele, entertainment style, dining options, and atmosphere.
For example, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer large resort-style ships with extensive onboard entertainment like water slides and shows, while Cunard and Holland America lean toward traditional cruising with a quieter, more formal feel.
Even within the same cruise line, ships can vary significantly in size, style, and onboard atmosphere.
For instance, P&O Cruises operates both Arvia and Iona, which are large, family-friendly megaships, but the line also owns Aurora, a smaller, adults-only ship offering a much more traditional cruising experience.
While it is possible to arrive in your embarkation city the morning of your cruise, it is a significant risk. Delayed or canceled flights, missed connections, and even traffic can result in a stressful day, or even a missed departure.
Unless you live close to the port, plan to arrive at least one day in advance. This is especially important when international travel is involved.
Cruise Blog's Elizabeth Wright said that starting your vacation with peace of mind is worth the cost of one night in a hotel: "Instead of relying on luck and hoping my flight departs on time, I prefer to fly out the night before. This way, I can have a relaxing embarkation morning that isn't plagued with anxiety over whether I'll make the ship."
Packing too much is a common mistake among first-time cruisers. Cabins typically offer limited storage, and many newcomers overpack, assuming they will need multiple outfits per day.
"Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage," explained The Points Guy's Gene Sloan, who added that in the worst-case scenarios, it's always possible to do laundry on board.
However, there are key items you should not forget. Bring a carry-on with essential items for embarkation day, such as medications, swimwear, and a change of clothes. It can take several hours for your checked luggage to arrive at your cabin.
Also, check your cruise line's rules in advance. Items like travel irons, kettles, and surge-protected power strips are usually prohibited.
Most major cruise lines now offer mobile apps that are essential tools once onboard. These apps allow you to check the daily schedule, make dining reservations, book activities, view your onboard account, and sometimes even unlock your cabin door.
Download and log into the app before you arrive at the port. Internet access may be limited at sea, but most apps function through the ship's internal network,without needing to buy an expensive internet package.
Beverage packages are heavily promoted by all cruise lines and can appear to offer good value. However, they are not always the best financial choice.
The cost of these packages varies by cruise line and itinerary. In many cases, you would need to consume a high number of alcoholic beverages per day to break even.
Consider your usual drinking habits, how many days you will spend at sea (on which you'll likely consume more), and what beverages are already included in your fare.
Some packages also include non-alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water, which may improve the value for some travelers.
Buffet restaurants are convenient, but relying on them exclusively means missing out on elevated dining experiences. Most cruise lines offer main dining rooms with table service, multi-course menus, and often higher-quality food.
These are included in your fare and can provide a more relaxing and enjoyable mealtime experience. In some cases, you are not even limited to one starter or main course.
Don't forget that main dining rooms are typically open for breakfast too, and usually lunch on sea days. This environment is often a much calmer way to start your day than the bustle of the breakfast buffet.
Cruise lines offer a wide range of shore excursions, but they are often priced at a premium. While they can be convenient, especially in complex or remote destinations, not every port requires a guided tour.
Research your destinations in advance. In some cases, attractions are within walking distance or easily reached by public transportation, taxi, or a local sightseeing bus. You may be able to plan your own day ashore for a fraction of the cost.
While many cruise experiences are included in your fare, extras can add up quickly. This includes specialty dining, drinks, spa treatments, Wi-Fi access, laundry services, and gratuities.
Most cruise lines allow you to track your spending through the app or your cabin television. Check your account regularly to avoid surprises at the end of your trip and to catch any billing errors early.
Cruise lines often run special offers on spa treatments, fitness classes, and specialty dining. However, these are often on port days when many passengers are ashore.
If there is a premium experience you are interested in, check for promotions either on embarkation day or during quieter times. Booking a massage or dinner on a port day can save money and provide a more peaceful experience.
With so much going on, from shows and trivia games to water slides and wine tastings, it is easy to overschedule yourself. Many first-time cruisers make the mistake of trying to attend every event and eat in every venue, only to burn out midway through the trip.
The golden rule is to pace yourself. If a particular port does not interest you, consider staying on board to enjoy the ship while it is quieter. Taking a slower approach allows you to appreciate the cruise experience rather than rushing through it.
Cruising can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to travel, but only if you plan accordingly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you will be better prepared to enjoy your time at sea and make the most of your first cruise.
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