Cruising is one of the most relaxing ways to travel—but a little preparation can make the difference between smooth sailing and unnecessary stress. Whether your upcoming cruise is your first or you are a veteran cruiser, these six tips will help you start your vacation off right and ensure a great trip.
Consider flying to the port early
Airlines are widely known to be unpredictable and delays of any kind, especially weather and mechanical issues, can mean disaster for your trip. As tempting as it is to look for a way to save some cash, flying into your departure port on embarkation day can be risky. Any airline delay could mean that you miss your ship unless you booked with the cruise line.
Booking a flight that arrives the day before gives you a cushion for delays and time to track down lost luggage if needed. Yes, it may mean an extra hotel night, but the peace of mind is worth it. Trust me—an extra night in a hotel close to the port beats knowing that your ship is setting sail without you.
Your Passport is Vital
Your passport is your golden ticket to boarding the ship—and every member of your party needs one. Before you even book your cruise, double-check passport expiration dates.
Many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, so don’t let an overlooked expiration derail your plans.
Before leaving for the port, check-and double check-that you have that passport! Don’t leave home without it!
Keep Your Sea Pass Secure
Your sea pass is one powerful little card. Issued to you at check-in, it is your stateroom key, your onboard method of payment, and your ticket on and off the ship at ports of call.
Since this card is attached to a credit card for on board purchases, protect it like you would an actual credit card—keep it secure at all times. You’ll need it often and discovering that you misplaced it can be a hassle.
Pack the Sunscreen
If your cruise is heading somewhere sunny and tropical (lucky you!), sunscreen is a must-have. If you forget, most ships sell sunscreen, but prices can be high, and nothing ruins a vacation vibe faster than a painful sunburn.
Bring a Day Bag
One of my favorite packing tips for a cruise: pack a lightweight, collapsible day bag inside your suitcase.
This bag will be one of the few items you pack for multiple purposes during your cruise:
On board sea days: Enjoy a day on deck with the gear you need. Drop essentials like sunscreen, a book, towels, and your sea pass into your day bag.
Port days: Your day bag can come in handy for excursions, giving you an easy way to carry IDs, sea passes, a camera, a water bottle, rain gear, or anything else you need for a fun day ashore.
Getting off the ship: On the last night of your cruise, you’ll have the option to put your luggage out for the crew to collect and handle so it’s ready for you when you get off the ship. Since that happens the night before, you’ll want a place to stash morning essentials like toiletries, travel documents, and anything you plan to keep with you. Your day bag is perfect for this. Once you’re reunited with your suitcase, just toss the bag back inside and you’re ready for the flight home—easy, organized, and stress-free.
Keep Your Watch on Ship Time
It is remarkably easy to lose track of the day and time on a cruise ship—that’s a good thing—but be careful to keep your watch (or phone) set to ship time. Ship time is important and can mean the difference between participating or totally missing that onboard activity you were looking forward to—and even more importantly—ensures that you won’t be late getting aboard after an excursion adventure. You don’t want to be THAT cruiser! Remember, the ship waits for no one!
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to relax, explore, and truly enjoy your cruise vacation. Now all that’s left to do is unpack, unwind, and let the adventure begin.
Bon Voyage!
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