100+ Quick and Smart Cruise Tips Cheat Sheet

Quick Tips for Planning a Cruise

1. Set a Budget: Determine a comfortable budget that includes all costs, such as airfare, pre- and post-hotel stays, excursions, etc.
2. Duration Choice: A 4-5-day cruise is perfect for first-timers, offering a full experience without too long a commitment. There are also shorter and longer options to fit every preference.
3. Destination Selection: Explore itineraries to find your ideal destination, whether you’re drawn to the warmth of the Caribbean or the insanely magnificent views of Alaska. Think about your preferred climate and destinations that intrigue you.
4. Cruise Line and Ship: Choose a cruise line and ship that aligns with your style and needs.
5. Itinerary Optimization: Look for itineraries that allow ample time at each port, ideally 6 to 8+ hours, to maximize your port days. If you’re like me, you’ll want to look at itineraries with more days at port destinations than at sea.
6. Booking Timing: Book a cruise during the wave season, right after the holidays, or book a cruise to travel during the shoulder or off-seasons for the best deals. Be mindful of weather patterns in your chosen destinations and aware of the possibility of cancellations and changes in itineraries.

Booking Your Cruise: Key Tips

7. Comparison Shop: Start with a direct quote from cruise lines for baseline pricing. Direct booking allows for direct communication with the cruise line, but don’t overlook the value of a good cruise travel agent for potential deals and perks.
8. Use a Travel Agent: A skilled cruise travel agent can offer personalized service and exclusive benefits like onboard credits that you might not get otherwise.
9. Leverage Credit Card Perks: If you have an American Express Platinum or similar card, use it to book your cruise for additional benefits, such as shipboard credits through programs like Amex Travel’s Cruise Privileges Program.
10. Watch for Promotions: Look for special promotions, including discounted deposits, that will make planning and paying for your cruise easier over time.
11. Cabin Selection Strategies: Consider booking a guaranteed cabin category or an inside cabin for cost-effective rates. These options can offer significant savings, especially if you plan to spend most of your time enjoying the ship’s amenities.
12. Book Early: Booking your cruise 1-2 years in advance allows you to lock in great rates and pay off your vacation gradually. Early booking is crucial for high-in-demand cruises like Disney to get the best rates.
13. Monitor Rates Post-Booking: Watch for price drops or special offers after booking. You may be able to rebook at the lower rate or snag additional perks before making the final payment. We use Cruiseline.com‘s Shipmates app for their price alert notification.
14. Loyalty Pays Off: Participate in cruise line rewards programs. Sticking with one cruise line can earn points towards discounts, free drinks, cabin upgrades, onboard credits, and more.

Smart Tips to Save for Your Cruise

15. Open a High-Interest Savings Account: Start an online savings account for your cruise fund. Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to save effortlessly. American Express offers a great high-yield savings accounts.
16. Collect Loose Change: Use a piggy bank for spare change—it can add up significantly over time, turning into a substantial amount for your travel fund. We sometimes use this money as our play money.
17. Utilize Reward Credit Cards: Apply for credit cards that offer travel rewards, points, or cashback. Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture are excellent for beginners. You can use the accumulated points to pay for your hotels and flights.
18. Consider Cruise Line Credit Cards: If you’re loyal to a specific cruise line, their branded credit card can offer benefits and points towards your next cruise. Although it is not my preferred way to maximize point usage, it is an option.
19. Set Aside Extra Cash: Whenever you withdraw cash or receive small bills as a change, save a portion for your cruise fund. This method can add up over time.
20. Sell Unwanted Items: Organize a garage sale or sell items you no longer need online. It’s a great way to declutter and boost your cruise savings.
21. Earn Extra Income: Look into freelance opportunities or part-time work that can help you save specifically for your cruise vacation.

Read more: Strategies for Saving Up for Your Next Trip

Tips to Get Ready For a Cruise

22. Secure Cruise Insurance: This is important for covering medical emergencies and offering peace of mind. Consider paying more for “cancel for any reason” if you need more flexibility.
23. Early Flight and Hotel Bookings: Book flights and hotels well in advance. Use tools like Google Flights to monitor fares and ensure you arrive at least a day before your cruise to avoid last-minute stress.
24. Verify Travel Documents: Ensure your passport and government ID are up-to-date and won’t expire close to your travel dates.
25. Reserve Specialty Dining and Excursions: Book special dining options and shore excursions early (90 days in advance is typical) to secure your spot.
26. Health Precautions: Arrange any necessary COVID-19 tests or vaccinations as per the latest cruise line and destination requirements.
27. Join Cruise Communities: Engage with fellow cruisers via platforms like Cruise Critic or Facebook groups for tips and updates about your sailing.
28. Utilize the Cruise Line App: Download your cruise line’s app to access reservations, schedules, and check-in processes easily.
29. Prepare for Online Check-In: Check-in online as early as your cruise line allows to smooth your boarding process.

Read more: What to Do Before a Cruise

Introductory Cruise Packing Tips

30. Early Packing: Begin packing at least one week in advance to avoid last-minute stress and ensure you have everything you need.
31. Carry-On Essentials: Include swimwear or a change of clothes in your cruise carry-on, along with any critical medications, to tide you over until your luggage is delivered to your cabin.
32. Power Extender: Bring a travel power strip (without a surge protector) to maximize outlet usage in your cabin, as outlets can sometimes be limited.
33. Prohibited Items: Avoid packing prohibited items such as irons. Consult your cruise line’s guidelines for a comprehensive list of what not to pack.
34. Beverage Policies: Check your cruise line’s onboard policy on bringing personal beverages. Many allow 1-2 bottles of wine with a possible corkage fee and may permit sealed water bottles and non-alcoholic drinks.
35. Packing List: Review and print a comprehensive cruise packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essentials, adapting it for specific destinations like packing for Alaska if needed.

Smooth Sailing on Embarkation Day

36. Prepare Documents: Have all necessary travel documents, including cruise luggage tags, printed and ready for easy access.
37. Early Arrival: Plan to arrive at the cruise port early, following the check-in time listed in your cruise documents, to avoid any rush.
38. Luggage Handling: Upon arrival, hand off your luggage to a porter at the port and remember to tip. Avoid long luggage check-in lines.
39. Security and Check-In: Proceed patiently through security and check-in online beforehand to expedite the process at the port.
40. Boarding Process: Be aware of your boarding time and group, as announced by the cruise line, typically starting around 11:30 am or 12 pm.
41. Key Card Safety: Keep your cruise key card secure throughout your journey; it’s essential for accessing your stateroom and making onboard purchases.
42. Photo Opportunities: For those interested in taking photos of a half-empty ship, aim to be among the first to board for the best photo ops.

Read more: Tips for Cruise Embarkation Day Pre- and Post-Boarding Advice

When You Finally Board the Cruise ship

43. Celebrate Your Arrival: Kick off your vacation with a vacation drink. It’s time to indulge in those vacation vibes!
44. Reservation Adjustments: Visit guest services for any dining or entertainment reservation changes. Alternatively, you can often make adjustments directly at the venue or the app. Some cruise ships even have large touch screens throughout the ship.
45. Safety First: Locate your muster station as indicated on your cruise card. Before the ship sets sail, you must participate in the mandatory safety drill, which might involve checking in at your muster station and watching a safety video.
46. Explore the Ship: Familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout. All facilities, including the spa, are usually open for exploration on the first day.
47. Enjoy a Meal: Check out which restaurants serve lunch on embarkation day outside the buffet and enjoy your first meal onboard. We try to avoid buffet for lunch on embarkation day and find alternative venues to eat at.
48. Stateroom Access: Check if your stateroom is ready for you to drop off your carry-on luggage. If not, your cabin steward may allow you to leave your belongings while you explore.

Cruise Cabin Essentials: Tips for a Comfortable Stay

Your luggage will be delivered and left outside your cruise cabin after you embark.

49. Meet Your Cabin Steward: Introducing yourself to your cabin steward can improve your stay, as they’re a valuable resource for any needs or questions. We sometimes tip extra on day one, depending on our requests. You can request blankets or pillows to make your stay more comfortable.
50. Unpack Efficiently: Unpack once your luggage arrives to keep your cabin tidy and make the space more comfortable.
51. Optimize Cabin Space: Use under-bed areas for luggage storage.
52. Nighttime Comfort: For balcony cabins, draw the curtains at night to block out light and ensure a good night’s sleep. You can also use a tea light as a night light.
53. Secure Valuables: Take advantage of the in-room safe for your valuables, such as your passport.
54. Organizational Hacks: Utilize an over-the-door shoe organizer for extra storage and to organize toiletries and small items.
55. Creative Storage Solutions: Since cabin walls are often metallic, bring along magnets or magnetic hooks to conveniently hang clothes or daily itineraries.

Read More: Smart Tips and Tricks for Your Cruise Cabin

Cruise Ship Navigation Tips

56. Stay Informed: Check the daily schedule for events and activities regularly. Use the cruise app or take photos of the newsletter for easy reference.
57. Guest Services: For quieter times, visit Guest Services late at night. It’s typically less crowded then.
58. Opt for Stairs: Use stairs instead of elevators for quicker movement around the ship and a bit of extra exercise. The elevators can get crowded.
59. Laundry Facilities: If available, use the self-service launderettes for mid-cruise laundry needs, especially for longer-length cruises. Or watch for laundry specials that have you fill a bag for a set price. We love to have the laundry cleaned and folded for the return home.
60. Capture Memories: Engage with onboard photographers for professional photos at key locations and events throughout your cruise.
61. Explore and Relax: Visit the ship’s library for a quiet place to read or borrow a book or a game.
62. Family Amenities: If cruising with kids, check out the kids’ and teens’ clubs early to sign them up for engaging activities tailored to their age group.
63. Prepare for Tipping: Carry small bills for gratuities to ensure smooth transactions for services that go above and beyond.
64. Time Zone Awareness: Be aware of any time changes as the ship enters new time zones, adjusting your watches and phone time as the crew advises.

Maximizing Your Cruise Dining Experience

65. First Night Dining Deals: Look for discounts at specialty restaurants on the first night. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy premium dining at a lower cost.
66. Diverse Menu Choices: Feel free to order multiple dishes in the main dining room to sample a variety of offerings. Sharing with your dining companion is also encouraged.
67. Beyond the Buffet: Breakfast and sometimes lunch are available in the main dining room, offering a quieter and more relaxed setting than the buffet.
68. Buffet Tips: Utilize the buffet for flexible dining times and a wide selection, ideal for snacks or meals to enjoy in your favorite ship spot or cabin.
69. Dietary Needs: Inform the cruise line of any allergies or dietary restrictions. The waitstaff is typically attentive to these details, but it’s best to speak to the head chef and Maître d’.
70. Satisfaction Guarantee: If a dish doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t hesitate to request something else. Cruise lines aim for complete guest satisfaction.
71. Understanding Room Service: Be aware of surcharges for room service.
72. Plan Ahead with Room Service: Order breakfast room service the night before for a leisurely morning. It’s a convenient way to start your day, especially for early days a port.
73. Themed Dining Nights: Participate in themed dining events for a unique culinary experience. Check with the dining staff for schedules.
74. Afternoon Delights: Don’t miss out on afternoon tea, if available, for a delightful break with tea, sandwiches, and pastries.
75. Indulge a Little: Treat yourself to daily soft-serve or scooped ice cream—because vacation is the time to enjoy those little pleasures.

Read more: What’s covered in your cruise vacation?

Cruise Entertainment and Activity Highlights

76. Show Reservations: Not always necessary, but sometimes you have to book show times in advance to secure your spot. Alternatively, arrive early for standby options.
77. Themed Parties: Participate in themed parties—often a highlight of the cruise experience. Consider packing themed outfits to engage in the fun fully. For example, white-colored clothes for White Hot Night on NCL or red clothing for Scarlet Nights on Virgin Voyages.
78. Bingo and More: Join in on popular onboard activities like bingo, which is often held 2-3 times throughout the cruise. Note that these activities will incur additional fees.
79. Specialty Activities: For unique experiences like go-karts, laser tag, or a rope course, plan and book ahead. These may have an additional charge.
80. Live Music: Enjoy the ambiance created by live bands and piano players at various locations around the ship.
81. Learning Fun: Take advantage of cruise-offered classes and tastings, from dance lessons to wine tasting. These are great ways to enrich your cruise experience, especially on sea days.
82. Pool Deck Tips: Try early morning or late afternoon for a less crowded pool deck experience. Alternatively, explore away from the pool deck to find more relaxing spots.

Expert Tips for Shore Excursions and Tours

83. Independent Booking: Consider booking shore excursions independently for savings compared to cruise line-sponsored excursion rates. This often allows for more flexibility and customization of your experience.
84. Cruise Line Excursions: For peace of mind, especially concerning timely return to the ship, cruise line-organized tours offer guaranteed on-time return and streamlined logistics.
85. Self-Guided Exploration: If you prefer to explore at your own pace, self-guided tours can be more cost-effective and offer a personal touch to your visit. Research is key to maximizing this experience.
86. Research and Plan: Regardless of your excursion choice, thorough research on destinations, attractions, and local transportation options is crucial for a fulfilling experience.
87. Watch the Clock: Always allow enough time to return to the ship at least one hour before scheduled departure. It’s even more important for those not on cruise line-organized tours, as the ship will not wait for latecomers.

Read more: How to Plan Your Own Shore Excursions

Strategies for a Smooth Cruise Port Experience

88. Port Research: Familiarize yourself with each port-of-call beforehand to make the most of your visit.
89. Understand Tender Ports: Identify if your stops include tender ports and plan to tender early to maximize your time at port. Tendering can sometimes lead to a late start at a port.
90. Beyond the Terminal: Venture beyond the cruise terminal to fully experience the local culture and sights.
91. Transportation Options: To explore further, take taxis or other local transportation, always agreeing on the fare in advance.
92. Car Rentals: For more freedom, consider renting a car for destinations inaccessible by public transport. Opt for reputable big rental companies to avoid scams.
93. Activity Planning: Research and plan activities for each port of call using trusted sources or recommendations for ideas, such as read
94. Financial Precautions: When possible, use credit cards for purchases. For added security, use ATMs inside banks for cash needs.
95. Connectivity Tips: Look for free Wi-Fi spots in ports for internet access, or check if your mobile plan offers international data, which can be convenient for staying connected.

Simplifying Your Cruise Disembarkation

96. Plan Your Post-Cruise Transportation: Whether you’re heading to the airport, a hotel, or driving home, you may want to have your post-cruise transportation arranged in advance. Sometimes, transportation can be as easy as hopping into a taxi or Uber outside the cruiser terminal.
97. Settle Your Bill Early: Avoid last-minute charges by reviewing and settling your onboard account the night before disembarkation. Most cruise lines offer an express checkout service.
98. Luggage Preparation: Secure your luggage tag from guest services for your disembarkation group and place your luggage outside your cabin the night before as instructed.
99. Don’t Forget A Change of Clothes: If you give up your luggage the night before disembarking, keep a change of clothes to wear the next morning to disembark. You won’t see your luggage again until you are off the ship.
100. Early Disembarkation Option: For those needing to disembark early, consider the self-assist method, where you carry your own luggage off the ship. This allows for an earlier departure, though be prepared for potential lines.
101. Late Departures: If your flight or transportation home is later in the day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and savor your final moments onboard without rushing.

Read more: How to Ensure an Easy Cruise Disembarkation Process

What is the first thing you do when you go on a cruise?

After checking in with your designated muster station, the first thing you should do when you go on a cruise is get a drink and explore the ship. It’s the best time to familiarize yourself with the ship and explore the ideal spot for sail away. You can eventually grab lunch.

How long should your first cruise be?

As a first-time cruiser, try not to book a cruise longer than seven days.

Are masks required on cruises now?

Masks are presently optional on most cruise lines.

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Steps to Take When Planning and Booking Your Cruise
• Expert Strategies for Cutting Costs on Your Cruise
• Add up If a Cruise Drink Package Is Worth It (Calculator)
• Cruise Wardrobe Mistakes to Avoid