What to Expect on a Cruise: Things to Know About Cruise Ships

what is cruise

Instead, pack a small nightlight that you can plug in to provide a some illumination. While we will get into all the details of your first cruise below, let’s start with a general overview. The specifics might vary from line to line, but the general aspects of your trip will be similar. Beyond that, we’ve laid out everything you need to know about taking your first cruise… and how to sail like a pro.

Best First Time Cruise Lines for Every Travel Style

Most cruise ships have medical centers with doctors and nurses onboard. You can visit the medical center if you get sick or injured during your cruise vacation, or to obtain things like bandages and seasickness medication. But the good news is that, even here, more lines are bundling things like drinks packages and gratuities into a booking package as part of promotions. You often can find a package deal from even mass-market lines where many of the "extras" on your cruise are included in the price you pay up front.

But Don’t Pick a Cruise for Just One Port of Call

However, note that alcoholic beverages and adults-only specialty restaurants incur extra fees. At night, our ships rev things up with complimentary dance parties and clubs, outdoor movies and Broadway-caliber entertainment. The cruise line is known for offering some of the most innovative entertainment at sea. Performances in the Royal Theater, which include award-winning Broadway musicals such as Grease, Hairspray and Mamma Mia!

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

If you’re flying in for your cruise, then you’re going to need a ride to the cruise port. All the cruise lines will offer a shuttle that runs from the airport to the cruise port, but the catch is they are expensive. This is especially the case if you’re the sort of person who likes to take your time getting ready in the morning while sipping on a cup of coffee or just having your own private space to take in the view. Having the fresh air — and the million-dollar views — from your balcony is worth the extra cost if you want to pay a little more for your trip.

Windstar Cruises

On a ship, there are way too many places where you can slip and fall — especially around the pool. Upgrade to a pair that has a nice rubberized sole with plenty of tread. Keep this in mind and double-check the itemized receipt before you sign as there is often another line for write-in tips. Unless the service was simply above and beyond, there is no reason to give a second tip on your drink. When you leave your cabin, be sure to put any valuables in the cabin safe. No, it’s not perfect, but it acts as a good deterrent from crimes of convenience and provides you with a little peace of mind.

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Be sure to check your cruise documents closely and take note of the dress codes, then pack appropriately with that in mind. If you run into a situation where you need a passport (rare), this page can serve as ID until you get back to the ship. Meanwhile, you don’t have to worry about your actual passport getting lost in a port. Everyone tells you to be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen on your cruise, but they don’t tell you why. The result is that you can get burned being exposed to the sun for as little as 10 minutes if you aren’t used to it.

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Your CabinWhile on the ship, the cabin on the ship is your home away from home. First-time cruisers are always surprised at the size of a cruise cabin. Booking a cruise involves careful research, consideration of preferences, and selection of the right itinerary and cruise line. Whether you choose to book with a travel agent or online, ensure that all terms and conditions are understood before finalizing your reservation. It’s important to note that each cruise line and ship may have its own unique offerings and amenities. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific details and features of your chosen cruise before embarking.

Bring extra toiletries

Music and entertainment are lively throughout the ship, often attracting a slightly younger crowd than some other cruise lines. That doesn’t mean you won’t find all ages onboard a Carnival ship. In fact, the ages onboard any given sailing are likely to range from toddler to octogenarian. Royal Caribbean cruise fares are not inclusive, except for those in the highest-priced suite categories. Drinks and food beyond the complimentary options may be purchased a la carte onboard or as separate packages. Entertainment and most activities are included in the fare, but keep in mind that crew tips are not.

Try not to Schedule a Flight Home Before NoonEach year millions of cruise passengers fly into port cities to start their cruise. Always Pack a Little for Cool WeatherOf course cruises go everywhere, but the Caribbean is the biggest cruise hot spot in the world. And when you think about sailing there for the first time, you likely picture tons of sun, warm water, and swimsuits.

You Can Still Find Quiet Spots on the ShipFor all the thousands of people on a cruise ship, you might think that it would be shoulder to shoulder the entire trip. Cruise ships arrive back in port early in the morning, but it can be several hours before everyone is off the ship. As well, you then have to get to the airport, get through security, and find your gate.

You also don't have to go hunting for a restaurant every night. There usually are a bunch just steps away from your cabin with tables waiting for you. He told the court he called the retired captain to see exactly where he lived so he knew when to sound the cruise ship horn.

If you plan on drinking a lot, then cruise lines also sell alcohol packages. These deals allow you to pay one set price each day and drink your fill. One of the biggest advantages of taking a cruise is the convenience it offers.

what is cruise

Your cabin class assigns you to a specific restaurant, each class being a step up in both the stateroom and included dining experience. Cunard’s ships, Queen Mary 2 in particular, returns passengers to traditional ocean liners with her elegant Art Deco design and white-gloved service on a ship where afternoon tea is a grand affair. Seabourn luxury cruises are exceptional for offering some of the highest space for all guests in the industry while offering a private club atmosphere.

While surcharges such as spa treatments and items purchased at the onboard shops may be obvious to some, other hidden extra fees may be more difficult to imagine when it’s your first time on a cruise. These could include fitness classes, access to adult-only sun decks, corkage fees and gratuities. Make sure you know what your base fare includes before you book. On many ships you'll find the main dining room or other dining venues open during the day on embarkation day. Check your app for opening hours or head to guest services to find out your options for embarkation day dining if you're seeking a little peace and quiet.

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