5 Tips For Going On A Cruise For The Very First Time

If you are going on a cruise but are quite nervous as it’s something you have never done before, then you are not alone.

So many people are in the same position as you, but if you take your time and if you are willing to prepare in advance then this will help you to feel much more at ease.

Avoid Packing Mistakes

Your luggage will be scanned before you get on board. It’s important to know that some products are banned on cruise ships, such as items that have power strips and anything with a heating element. This happens to include irons and travel kettles. Some cruise ships do allow you to bring a very small amount of alcohol on board, but others do not. Checking the rules for your cruise in advance will save you from being frustrated on your very first day.

Prepare for Embarkation Day

On embarkation day, you need to take a carry-on with you that has everything you could ever need for your first day. This will include swimwear, a possible change of clothes and any essential medication. If you are traveling on a bigger ship then it can be several hours before your main luggage gets to your cabin, and the last thing you want is to be without something essential.

Arrive the Day Before

If you live within an easy commuting distance then this is great, but if not, you should plan to arrive at your port of choosing at least one day before you are due to set sail. This is very much the case if you need to fly, as disruptions and last-minute issues are often seen within the aviation industry. If you are going on a Galapagos cruise, then taking a camera is always a good idea.

Research the Ship

You don’t need to learn all of the deck plans before you board. That being said, it is wise for you to get a feel for what is where so you can save a lot of time during your first few days. Committing to memory where the buffet is or even where the lounge is will help you to make the most out of your stay and it will also make things easier for you overall. Spending time researching the ship also means that you will not miss out on any attractions.

Research Ports

You don’t need to make an hour-by-hour plan. You do however need to spend some time researching the ports that are available before you travel. This will help you to decide if you want to pay more for an expensive excursion or an independent tour. You can also walk around at your leisure if you want. If you want to make the most out of your experience, then it is so important that you keep things like this in mind.

Of course, if you want to have the best experience yet then it’s vital that you book through a great operator. If you can do this, then everything else will fall into place.