Top Ten Tips For Your First Cruise

Is a cruise something you have always considered? A first time cruise is always exciting but if you have never cruised before you may feel a little overwhelmed with everything. Here are my ten top tips for your first cruise.

1. Save money when you can


If you are looking to go on your first cruise, you will want to ensure you are getting the best value for your money. Why not look for a last minute cruise ship deal? You can find some really good deals for great prices with a little bit of research.

2. Pick a room that suits

People often say to pick one in the middle of the ship, especially if you feel you may suffer from seasickness. Being situated here means you are close to the ship's attractions but not so high that you’ll feel every rock of the boat. You may also want a room with a balcony so you can sit outside and take in the views. If you have the money or are celebrating a special occasion, a luxury suite may be on your agenda too. Pick a room that suits you, your circumstances and your budget.

3. Make an itinerary


It is always a good idea to have a plan of what you want to do on the cruise. Whether you want to spend plenty of time on board sampling the facilities such as spa, pool and so on, or visit some of the different ports, create a personal itinerary for you, so you always know where you stand.

4. Think about money


How you manage your money is something you seriously need to consider when going on a cruise. Some cruises operate a cashless system where you use a card onboard which charges everything to your account. Some use a specific type of currency such as dollars. You will also need to consider buying the currency of the places where you may be stopping. You may have a package where drinks are included on board or you may have to pay for drinks separately so allow for that too.

5. Research the ports


If you know you will be stopping off in various ports,  research what things you want to do whilst there in the time you have. Are you exploring on your own or with an organised excursion? If you are paying for excursions budget for this if they are not included.


6. Research the ship

Cruise ships have so much to do on them - why miss out on anything if you can help it? By checking out the ship, you will know exactly what there is to do and what is expected of you as a guest. I find watching YouTube videos from channels focusing on cruises like Tips For Travellers beneficial. Check out if there is a Captains dinner, check out the entertainment on the ship, check out the facilities of the room and so on. Also, you may need to make reservations for shows on the big cruise ships so think about what you want to see before you get there.

7. The tipping culture


Another thing to consider money wise is tips. Some cruise lines do not ask or expect tips and build such things into the prices. Others allow tips in cash and some charge a gratuity. Do some research before you go to see what your cruise line does and budget accordingly.

8. Make sure you have a carry on with essentials

So when you get to your ship, you won’t get your luggage straight away when you’ve boarded - just think about how many passengers there will be, all waiting for their luggage too. Pack a bag with the essentials to keep you going until it arrives.


9. Let everyone off first


Why waste time standing in a queue to disembark at a port when you can have a bite to eat and drink as you watch the queue dissipate, especially if you are exploring on your own? Wait for the queues to die down and then disembark.

10. Have fun!

Finally, have fun! There is so much to think about when going on a cruise but the most important thing to enjoy yourself. Immerse yourself in the activities and visit the ports, there is so much to see and do you will never be bored.

Have you ever been on a cruise? Where would you like to visit on a cruise ship?



*Collaborative post

13 comments

  1. I'd love to go on a cruise, but my partner doesn't like the idea. I may have to find a girlfriend who fancies a trip.

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  2. Great tips about the queues! We've been on a lot of cruise ships to visit in port/press days but never actually managed to go on a trip! Researching destinations would be high on our list!

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    1. They have a lot of family friendly cruises now too.

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  3. I've never been on a cruise but I really want to one day. I think we'd want a middle of the boat room so I don't get sea sick x

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    1. Take some travel tablets and if it does get bad I think the Dr can give you an injection.

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  4. Thanks for all the tips. I really want to go on a cruise but my husband isn't so interested, so maybe I'll have to go with my Mum! Mich x

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  5. This is so helpful, I've never been on a cruise before but love the idea of doing one

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    1. Hope you get the chance to go one day Sarah.

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  6. There are some really good tips here. A carry on with essentials is a must for sure xx

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  7. I've never been on a cruise but I can imagine how researching a port would be important -great way to avoid any disappointments x

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  8. Cruising can be so fun, but with these tips it would be amazing@

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