Cruising Through the Eyes of a New Cruiser (From Someone Who's Taken many Cruises)

I've been on quite a few cruises—16 to be exact. I know there are people out there who have sailed many more times than I have. Lucky ducks!

Recently, I traveled with first-time cruisers, and it reminded me of what it's like to see cruising through fresh eyes. The excitement, the anticipation, and all the questions:

Will I get seasick?
Do I have to dress up for dinner?
What if I don't know what I'm doing?

Watching new cruisers experience it all reminded me of the things that really matter. So, from planning your cruise to stepping off the ship at the end, here are a few things I've noticed through the eyes of a new cruiser—and an experienced one.

The Planning Stage

Planning is my specialty.

Do you need a travel advisor to book a cruise? Of course not. But if you can use one at no extra cost, why not?

I spend my days calming nerves, answering questions, helping groups stay near each other, and sharing advice from destinations I've personally visited. I can tell you what the ports look like, where to find a free beach, which shopping areas are worth your time, and even when it might be best to stay on the ship and enjoy the amenities.

When choosing a cruise, think about:

• Warm weather or cold weather?

• U.S. departure or overseas?

• Luxury or contemporary?

• Lively atmosphere or relaxed pace?

There really is a cruise for everyone.

Choosing Your Cabin

I've stayed in every cabin category except the suites.

Inside Cabins

The most affordable option. They're dark, quiet, and honestly offer some of the best sleep you'll ever get. When you're looking to save money, an inside cabin is hard to beat.

After all, how much time are you really spending in your room?

Ocean View Cabins

These cabins typically feature a large picture window. Some ships even have seating areas in front of the window. I see you Star Princess, it was a wonderful place to sit and watch the ocean.

Ocean view cabins usually provide more natural light and are often located on lower decks, closer to the water.

Balcony Cabins

My husband won't cruise without one.

For travelers who are prone to motion sickness or feel a little claustrophobic, balconies can be a great comfort. Personally, I don't struggle with either of those things, so I can't say for sure.  

If you're cruising Alaska, I'd absolutely recommend a balcony. You never know what wildlife, glaciers, or breathtaking scenery might drift by while you're sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an evening drink.

There is something magical about listening to the waves and staring into the endless ocean.

Suites

Suites are larger and often include extra perks such as butler service, preferred seating at shows, specialty dining benefits, and additional amenities.

Location, Location, Location

Many people ask whether they should stay at the front, middle, or back of the ship.

I usually prefer midship because it's convenient, but modern ships have excellent stabilizers. Most travelers won't notice a huge difference in movement.

One thing I learned on a recent cruise, though? Being close to the main elevators isn't always the best idea.  Our cabin was near the atrium, and because the atrium is open from the bottom deck to the top, the live music traveled right up through the ship.  When the atrium bar had music until 11:00 PM, my room had music until 11:00 PM too.

Lesson learned.

Flights and Hotels

After you've booked your cruise, it's time to think about flights and hotels.

I love nonstop flights whenever possible. If I have a connection, I want enough time to comfortably make my next flight without running through the airport in a panic. Flights are getting better, but delays still happen. Missing a cruise because of a flight issue is not the way anyone wants to start a vacation.

Many cruise lines offer air programs that provide extra protection if your flights are delayed. They may cost a little more, but for some travelers, the peace of mind is worth it.

As for hotels, I almost always recommend arriving the day before your cruise.  When selecting a hotel, some people prefer staying near the airport. Staying next to the airport, there is likely a shuttle from the airport and for a fee to the cruise port.  Others like staying near the port.  We love staying close to the port so we can watch the ship arrive.

One of our favorites is Harbour House in Galveston. It sits right along the channel where the ships sail in. Waking up early and watching your ship come around the canal is a peaceful and exciting way to start cruise day.

https://www.harborhousepier21.com/

Let's Pack

Because I arrive the day before, I pack my embarkation-day clothes and toiletries separately so they're easy to grab.

Pro tip:

That cute sundress you planned to wear on embarkation day?  Cruise ports can be incredibly windy.  You may spend more time fighting your dress than enjoying sail-away.

Most cruises also offer themed nights, which can include:

• 80s Night

• White Night

• Glow Parties

• Wig-Out Night

• Formal Night

Some people go all out. Others keep it simple. My rule for the dining room is easy: Don't dress like you're headed to the gym. The buffet is much more casual if you'd rather stay comfortable after a long day in the sun.

Don't Forget the Documents

For most closed-loop cruises (those that start and end in the same U.S. port), a passport isn't required.  That said, I strongly encourage having one.  If you experience a medical emergency in a foreign port and need to fly home, having a passport can save a lot of stress and complications.

On embarkation day, you'll need:

• Your boarding pass

• Passport or birth certificate

• Any required travel documents

When you arrive at the terminal, you'll hand your luggage over to a porter. A small tip is appreciated. And whatever you do...  Don't put your important documents in your checked luggage.  Ask me how I know.  One cruise, I accidentally packed my grandson's birth certificate in a suitcase. My husband had to board the ship, find our luggage, take a picture of the document, and send it to me so the rest of us could board.

Rookie mistake.

Once You're Onboard

The first thing I do is explore.  Have fun.  Walk the ship. Learn where everything is. Have fun. Make specialty dining reservations if needed. Stop by the excursion desk if you haven't booked activities yet.  If you book excursions through the cruise line, finding your group is usually very easy.  If you book independently, be sure to carry a photo ID and any excursion information with you when you leave the ship.

Then it's time to relax. Have fun  You've earned it.

Disembarkation Day

Technically, disembarkation starts the night before.

You'll have two choices for your luggage.

Option 1: Let the Cruise Line Handle It

Place your luggage outside your cabin by the designated time with the provided luggage tags attached.  That you will get have your room stewart or guest service. The crew will collect it and transport it off the ship. You'll pick it up in the terminal after disembarking.

Option 2: Carry It Yourself

You can keep your luggage with you and carry it off the ship.  The advantage is that you'll usually be among the first passengers to leave.  The disadvantage?  You'll be dragging your luggage to breakfast and carrying it through the ship.  Personally, I'd rather let someone else do the heavy lifting.

Just don't forget to keep these items with you:

• Clothes for the next morning

• Toothbrush

• Deodorant

• Passport

• Cruise card

Otherwise, you may find yourself trying to leave the ship with everything you need packed away.  And that would make for an interesting story.  We tend to take our time on the final morning. Since our flights are usually later in the day, we enjoy breakfast and linger a little longer before heading off.

What If You Have a Late Flight?

If your flight isn't until early evening, you have several options.

Option 1: Airport Adventure

Spend six hours at the airport.

Enjoy a $15 coffee, grab an Auntie Anne's pretzel, and do some very expensive souvenir shopping.

Option 2: Store Your Luggage

There is an app called Bounce that allows you to store your luggage for a small fee.  Locations are often available near cruise ports, airports, and major attractions, allowing you to explore the city without hauling your suitcase around. 
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bounce-luggage-storage-nearby/id1444570755

Option 3: Resort for a Day

This is one of my favorite options.  Many resorts offer day passes that include access to pools, restaurants, bars, fitness centers, and other amenities. Some even offer day rooms if you'd like a place to nap or freshen up before your flight.  Prices can range from around $50 to $250 per person, depending on the resort and inclusions.  It's a great way to extend your vacation by just a few more hours.

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/resortpass/id1557539492

Final Thoughts

If you've ever considered taking a cruise, I'd love to help.  Cruising is one of my favorite topics, and I can talk about ships, ports, cabins, and excursions all day long.  So let's grab a cup of jo sometime, and let's see if a cruise vacation is right for you. 

As always you can find some fun photos of cruises I have been on at both of my socials. 
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091729281118

https://www.instagram.com/tamaraw.allwaystravelandtour?igsh=ZzBwZ2V6bDhuMnV6&utm_source=qr