Taking a cruise for the first time is both exciting and overwhelming. You can’t wait to get away from the mundane day-to-day life and spend some days relaxing with your family. But the fear of missing your flight or going over the budget makes you think twice.
Sounds relatable? We’re here to help. Seasoned cruisers recommend doing the following things to make your holiday memorable:
- Look for Deals and Packages
Cruise holidays are already more affordable than land holidays. But there are more ways to make it even more wallet-friendly. One method is leveraging deals and packages offered by the cruise line.
First off, there is the early bird discount. If you’ve aligned school and work schedules and finalized the vacation dates, book as soon as possible. With an early bird discount, you can also get the cabin of your choice.
Other added amenities and packages include:
- Onboard credit
- Group discounts. For instance, the third or fourth member might get to cruise for free.
- Free sailing for kids below 11
- Seasonal sales
- Make Use of the Sale Window
This is such an underrated suggestion. Just set up alerts for your favorite cruise line’s sale announcement. Then, book within the first 48-72 hours of the sale launch to get maximum flexibility. You can choose your exact stateroom, be it a midship cabin, a higher deck, or a specific cabin number.
If you’ve subscribed to a cruise line’s newsletter or loyalty program, you have a higher shot at snagging those discounts. You will book when inventory is at its fullest rather than picking what’s left.
- Pre-book Everything
Experienced cruisers also recommend booking anything with additional costs before boarding the ship.
Cruise ships have tons of specialty restaurants and entertainment options that aren’t always included in the ticket price. When you stop at a port, you can also book excursions for an additional cost. If you’re interested, prepay for all of these things.
Reservations generally fill up quickly, so pre-booking is necessary. You’ll also pay less than if you wait till the last moment.
- Arrive a Day Early
If you’re flying to the departure port, it’s best to arrive at least one day early. Whether you’ve booked the flight yourself or via the cruise line, if you’re late, the ship will leave without you.
The cruise line, however, will get you on the earliest flight, flying you to the next port. Nevertheless, it’s best to prevent this hassle by arriving a day early. Numerous world-renowned ports have nearby hotels with shuttles to the port.
For instance, if you’re taking a cruise from Brisbane, you can explore numerous nearby local attractions. It’s like starting your holiday one day early.
- Have the Right Carry-on Essentials
With most cruise ships, it takes a couple of hours for your luggage to reach your cabin. This is why it’s important to pack the carry-on bag strategically. Keep everything you’ll need in your first 6-7 hours of boarding the ship.
Here are some must-haves:
- Sunscreen
- Hats
- Medicine, especially for motion sickness
- Bathing suits
The kids can jump into the pool right away while you visit the cabin and get everything settled.
- Check the Cruise Line’s Alcohol Policy
If you’re not a big drinker, paying a couple of hundred dollars for a drink package isn’t exactly wise. Seasoned cruisers have offered the perfect solution.
Most cruise lines allow you to bring 1-2 bottles of wine in your luggage. Check the cruise line’s alcohol policy and bring booze yourself.
Water, lemonades, mocktails, and juices are typically included in basic cruise fare, so there’s nothing to worry about.
By Gregory O'NeillGreg is a modern-day explorer with an insatiable love for travel. His passion for adventure has led him to far-flung corners of the world, where he immerses himself in diverse cultures and experiences. Greg's zest for life is epitomized by a continuous pursuit of new horizons and captivating journeys.
