Going on your first cruise is an exciting adventure! Whether you’re setting sail for a tropical paradise or exploring the wonders of the Mediterranean, proper preparation can ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready for your first cruise and inspire you to cruise.
My First Cruise Experience
I went on my first cruise with Princess Cruises in May of 2023. Although I was a bit apprehensive (having seen the movie Poseidon Adventure as a young child), I decided to take a chance and give cruising a try. To my delight, I absolutely loved it! The experience was so amazing that I went on another cruise in January 2024 with my sister and my two teens. We had an incredible time visiting the Mayan Ruins in Belize, touring the beautiful island of Roatan, Honduras, relaxing at a resort in Cozumel, and exploring Costa Maya. If you’re hesitant about cruising, take a chance. Nothing could have prepared me for the breathtaking beauty of the ocean, islands, and landscapes that God had in store for me to experience.
Choose the Right Cruise
Selecting the right cruise is the first step. Consider the following:
- Destination: Where do you want to go? Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska?
- Type of Ship: Do you like to relax? Do you like an active ship with lots of things for little kids to do? Do you like a “party ship”? What age group would you rather be with? Only YOU know your family! Our teens like a more relaxing experience without lots of children or noise. Princess Cruises offers them the ability to listen to music, relax, eat, swim, and more. Did I mention eat? They loved being able to go to beautiful sit down restaurants by themselves.
- Duration: How many days can you spare for the cruise? I HIGHLY SUGGEST arriving a day before your trip. If possible, NEVER arrive the day of! Flight cancellations and delays, traffic, and weather can cause you to miss your cruise and NO ONE wants that!
- Budget: What’s your budget? Remember to account for extra costs like excursions, tips, and drinks.
Book Early
Booking early can save you money and secure the best cabins. Look out for early bird deals and promotions. If possible, opt for a mid-ship cabin to minimize the feeling of motion if you’re prone to seasickness.
Prepare Your Documents
Ensure you have all necessary documents:
- Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least six months after your return date.
- Visas: Check if you need visas for the countries you’ll be visiting.
- Cruise Documents: Print your boarding passes, luggage tags, and itinerary.
- Insurance: One of the most important aspects of any travel is insurance. If you lose luggage, are injured, or fall ill, you will want insurance to cover you. Never travel without it!
Pack Wisely
Packing for a cruise can be different from other vacations. Here are some essentials:
- Clothing: Pack for different occasions (casual, formal, swimwear). Check the dress code for dinners. Bring comfortable shoes. If you are traveling to Caribbean destinations like Cozumel, bring water shoes. Depending on where you are, the beach may be rocky.
- Medications: Bring seasickness remedies, prescription medications, and a basic first aid kit.
- Toiletries: While most ships provide basics, it’s good to bring your own preferred brands.
- Miscellaneous: Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and chargers. Bring magnetic hooks! They cling to the walls of your cabin and you can hang your lanyards, clothes etc.
Plan Excursions
Research and book excursions in advance. Popular tours can sell out quickly, and booking through the cruise line ensures you won’t miss the ship. Make sure to take into account the time you need to be back on the ship and the normal length of time to travel to and from your excursion if you go with an outside excursion. You need to realize that weather, traffic, and road conditions can impact the length of time it might take to get back to the ship. The last thing you want is to be stuck on a bus or a taxi with time getting close to the ship leaving. The captain does NOT need to wait for you and you will get left behind!
Set Up Onboard Accounts
Most cruises operate on a cashless system. Set up your onboard account using a credit card before you embark to simplify purchases and tips. Princess Cruises uses the Medallion system, which is a medallion on a lanyard or watch band. It is connected to an app on your phone. If you are at a port, many shops offer the ability to purchase items using your medallion. If your cruise offers programs that cover your tips, I highly recommend it. Having the tips taken care of, simplifies your time. I always bring extra dollars to bless staff who are going above and beyond.
Stay Informed
Join online forums and social media groups related to your cruise. You can get valuable tips and insights from experienced cruisers.
Enjoy the Experience
Once onboard, take a deep breath and enjoy. Explore the ship, attend the welcome orientation, and start making memories!
By following these steps and drawing inspiration from my own experiences, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable cruising adventure. Bon voyage!
