7 Tips for Smooth Sailing on Your Next Cruise

There’s a reason why 28.5 million people opted to sail the seven seas in 2018. Unlimited food, entertainment every evening, premium spas and pools, and a boatload of activities is sure to inspire just about anyone to book their next vacation by sea.

Indeed, cruising is the quintessential picture of luxury travel. But for those new to it, or for anyone who wants to get more out of their vacation, here are seven tips to enjoy smooth sailing on your cruise.

1. Arrive the Night Before

It’s astounding how many travelers literally miss the boat due to missed flights, poor weather, traffic congestion or other unexpected circumstances. Even more barely make it to port in time, racing into the terminal looking sweaty and disheveled as well as majorly stressed out.

Of course, no one wants to deal with that kind of anxiety. Avoid it by flying in a day early and checking into a hotel or other overnight accommodation the night before your ship sails to make a leisurely trip out of the day, rather than a chaotic rush.

2. Pack a Carry-On Bag for the First Day

While the convenience of having your bags and suitcases brought to your room is a nice gesture, it may mean you and your belongings part ways for longer than you prefer. Knowing this, pack an extra change of clothes, a swimsuit and any essentials, such as medication and toiletries, in a day pack that you bring aboard.

3. Stay on the Ship

Here’s a trick most cruise lines won’t spill: Staying onboard during ports of call can be to your advantage. First, you’ll be one of few people who don’t jump ship, which means you’ll have the entire dining room, pools, exercise facilities and more to enjoy unencumbered by crowds. That also means you won’t have to jostle for a seat on the ship’s tender or pay for an overpriced tour.

4. Dish Up

Having a hard time deciding between the grilled tofu and filet mignon? Want to see if that dish of fresh bamboo and mushrooms is half as delicious as it looks? Try it all! You’re not limited to one appetizer, entree or dessert. Instead, ask for several appetizer-sized portions of main courses to start out the meal. Then, indulge in a couple of your favorite after-dinner treats. Indeed, it’s a great way to try new foods and make sure you don’t go to bed hungry.

5. Sit Down for Lunch on Embarkation Day

Throngs of people rush the buffet line on embarkation day, making an art form of weaving in and out of plastic trays. To avoid the mobs, head to a sit-down dining room for your first meal or ask a crew member for a calmer and quieter place to eat.

6. BYO Drinks

Few cruise lines will let you bring beer or liquor aboard; however, most will let you carry on a bottle or two of wine or champagne. Others will even let you bring non-alcoholic beverages aboard. Doing so allows you to save on pricey shipboard sodas, bottled water and alcohol.

7. Pack Appropriately

Just as you would for any other vacation, check out the weather forecast ahead of time and pack appropriately for the conditions you’ll experience. It goes without saying that the average Alaska cruises require a different wardrobe than, say, a trip to the Caribbean. Also, plan ahead for the types of shore excursions or on-board festivities you plan to partake in; after all, rock climbing in stilettos is rarely a treat.

Have the Time of Your Life

Even if you forgot your toothbrush or the ship must take a detour, be prepared to have the vacation of a lifetime. Cruising offers an exceptional way to tour the world in style at a reasonable cost. So, kick back, order a fruity drink (or three), and enjoy your time on the high seas.