Dan and I recently took an 11-day cruise of the Adriatic and visited 10 ports, starting in Rome and ending in Athens. We picked up a few tips for first time cruisers along the way and would like to share them with you.
Choosing a cruise line
- Check your passport expiration date. Be sure it expires AFTER you return from your trip.
- Different boats for different folks. Partiers, families, seniors, luxury, budget … every cruise line has a different appeal, so you’re bound to find one that fits your style. Use online cruise sites to get the real scoop. (Our favorite is Cruise Critic.)
- Consider a weekend with the cruise line before you invest megabucks on a longer cruise you may not enjoy. You’ll get a feel for whether they fit your style. Also some companies offer loyalty discounts to previous passengers…especially if you book your next cruise while on board.
Choosing an itinerary
- Don’t pick an itinerary just because it’s cheap. Decide where you want to go because the ports intrigue you.
- Check visa requirements for ports of call. If you don’t have the necessary visa you may be stuck on board, though some cruise lines offer “blanket” visas for people while on their excursions.
Packing
- Research ports online before you go. Previous passengers will have a lot of helpful suggestions about which of the ship’s excursions are worth it and which are fine to do on your own.
- Find out if your cruise line has a formal night. If you want to eat in the dining room on those nights, you’ll need to dress accordingly.
- Use luggage with wheels and don’t pack a lot. There are laundry facilities on board. Also, you’re going to have to lug everything – along with your souvenirs – to your next destination.
Booking considerations
- Request a stateroom on a low floor, mid-ship, if you get seasick. Although modern ships have phenomenal stabilizers that minimize movement, motion sickness pills bring peace of mind. Tip: Bonine (meclizine) doesn’t make me as drowsy and lasts longer than Dramamine, IMHO.
- Request a large table for dinner seating so you’ll have interesting people to talk to. They like to share their experiences. Also, you’ll be more likely to sit with someone you’ll connect with.
We spent some of our shore time with people we met on the cruise ship.
On board
- Don’t forget to bring your passport and cruise documents with you! Without the required documents, you won’t be permitted to board the ship.
- Arrive early on the day of the cruise. You’ll be able to explore the ship, settle in, enjoy a leisurely lunch on board, find your table for dinner, and relax with a drink as you wave goodbye to port.
- Check out the spa and gym on the first day; they usually offer embarkation promotions. During the cruise, the best deals are usually available while the ship is in port.
- Find out if tips are included in your fare. If not, cash tips are really appreciated. Some people tip their cabin steward on the first day in hopes that he might be extra helpful during the cruise.
- Take advantage of ”port talks.” They’re the best way to learn more about the port and region, how to get into town, don’t-miss sights, and more.
- Plan the next day before bedtime. Check your program – you’ll find it on your bed the night before – and compare notes with your travel buddy about what you want to do, both on shore and on the ship.
- Keep an eye on the clock if you’re visiting port on your own. You don’t want to be watching the ship sail from shore. For peace of mind, you can keep the name of the ship and a phone number handy.
- Check your balance halfway through. Those excursions, spa visits, slot machines, alcoholic drinks, photos, and so forth can add up quickly. You don’t want a horrible shock to ruin the end of your cruise.
- Enjoy the variety of cuisine experiences on board. You can get two entrees for dinner, enjoy the late-night dessert buffet, and order room service at no extra cost! (A tip for room delivery is appreciated, though.)
- Be aware that people CAN see in if you have a walkway outside your stateroom or if you’re in port. So be sure that the heavier curtains are drawn after dark, not just the sheers.
- Ask to disembark on your own at the end of the cruise, so you can leave on your own schedule, whenever you’re ready.
Where to go for more information
For even more tips for getting the most out of your cruise, just google phrases like “tips for first time cruisers,” “beginner cruise tips,” or “cruise tricks,” and you’ll find pages and pages of good advice.