First-Time Cruise Checklist

Everything You Need to Know Before Booking

Booking your first cruise is an exciting milestone. You are about to discover a way of travelling that lets you wake up in a new country every morning without ever repacking your suitcase. However, for those who have only ever taken land-based holidays, the world of cruising can initially feel like a foreign language.

You might be wondering about dress codes, dining schedules, or the fear of feeling trapped at sea. Perhaps you are confused by cabin categories or worried about hidden costs. These are entirely normal concerns. The good news is that modern cruising is far more flexible and accessible than the myths suggest.

This guide breaks down exactly what you need to know before you book. By understanding the logistics of life onboard—from choosing the right ship to budgeting for extras—you can stop worrying about the "what ifs" and start looking forward to the voyage.

Is a Cruise Right for You?

Before diving into the specifics, it is worth addressing the hesitation many first-timers feel. The most common concern is motion sickness. While no one can control the ocean, modern cruise ships are engineering marvels equipped with stabilisers—large fins that extend from the hull to minimise rolling. For most passengers, the movement is barely noticeable.

Another common worry is feeling claustrophobic or bored. Today’s ships are essentially floating resorts. They offer theatres, spas, multiple swimming pools, and acres of deck space. If you enjoy hotel stays, dining out, and visiting multiple destinations with zero logistical stress, cruising is likely a perfect fit.

The key benefit of cruising is convenience. You visit iconic destinations—from the fjords of Norway to the beaches of the Caribbean—without the hassle of trains, taxis, or constant hotel check-ins.

Choosing the Right Cruise for Your First Time

Not all cruise lines are created equal. Picking the right ship is just as important as picking the destination.

Ship Size Matters

Cruise ships range from intimate vessels carrying fewer than 1,000 passengers to "mega-ships" carrying over 6,000.

Large Ships: These are ideal for families and multi-generational groups. They offer endless entertainment, kids' clubs, and varied dining options. If you want a resort-style atmosphere, go big.
Small to Mid-Sized Ships: These vessels can access smaller ports that mega-ships cannot reach. They generally offer a quieter, more traditional experience with a focus on the destination rather than onboard waterparks.

Duration

For a first cruise, a duration of 5 to 7 nights is the "sweet spot". This gives you enough time to find your sea legs and explore the ship without committing to a long voyage. Short "taster" cruises of 2 or 3 nights can sometimes feel rushed and are often more party-focused, which might not give you the true cruise experience.

Fly-Cruise vs. Sailing from the UK

For UK travellers, sailing from a local port like Southampton is a stress-free option. There are no luggage weight limits (within reason) and no airport queues. However, sailing from the UK means crossing the Bay of Biscay or the North Sea, which can be choppier than the Mediterranean. A "fly-cruise" involves flying to a sunny port like Barcelona or Rome to board the ship, guaranteeing warmer weather from day one.

Cabin Types Explained (And What to Choose)

Selecting a cabin (often called a stateroom) can be confusing due to the sheer number of categories. Here is the simple breakdown:

Inside Cabins

These rooms have no windows. They are the most affordable option and are perfect if you plan to spend all your time on deck and only use the room to sleep and shower. They are also excellent for deep sleep as they are pitch black when the lights are out.

Oceanview (Outside) Cabins

These rooms feature a window or a porthole. You cannot open it, but it provides natural light and a view of the sea. This is a good middle ground if you want to see the horizon but don't need outdoor space.

Balcony Cabins

These feature a private veranda with a table and chairs. Having a balcony transforms the experience, offering a private space to watch the ship pull into port or enjoy a morning coffee. For many first-timers, this is worth the upgrade.

Suites

Suites offer extra space, separate living areas, and often come with "perks" like priority boarding, butler service, or access to exclusive restaurants.

Location Tips for New Cruisers

If you are prone to motion sickness, choose a cabin located mid-ship (the middle of the vessel) and on a lower deck. This is the ship's centre of gravity where movement is felt the least. Avoid cabins directly under the pool deck (noise from deckchairs) or directly above the nightclub.

Dining on a Cruise: What’s Included and What’s Not

One of the greatest joys of cruising is the food. However, knowing where you can eat for free is essential.

Dress Codes: What Do People Really Wear?

The image of tuxedo-clad passengers dining in ballrooms is largely a thing of the past. While some ultra-luxury lines retain strict dress codes, most modern cruises are relaxed.

Daywear

During the day, the dress code is almost always casual. Shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and swimwear (on deck) are the norm. Note that most ships ask you to wear shoes and a cover-up when entering dining areas for lunch.

Evening Wear

In the evening, the code usually shifts to "Smart Casual". For men, this means trousers or smart jeans with a collared shirt. For women, a dress, skirt, or trousers with a nice top works well.

Formal Nights

Most 7-night cruises will have one or two "Formal Nights" (sometimes called Gala Nights or Chic Nights). Even here, a dark suit and tie or a cocktail dress is sufficient. If you strictly do not want to dress up, the buffet is always a casual alternative on formal nights.

Seasickness: How Likely Is It and How to Prepare?

Fear of seasickness is the number one barrier for potential cruisers. It is important to know that modern ships are massive and stable. You typically do not feel the "rocking" motion associated with small boats; it is more of a gentle vibration or slow sway. To prepare:

Pack remedies: Bring over-the-counter motion sickness tablets or acupressure wristbands just in case.
Look at the horizon: If you feel queasy, go to an open deck and look at the horizon. The fresh air and visual reference point help reset your inner ear.
Green apples and ginger: Many crew members swear by green apples or ginger ale to settle a stomach. You will often find green apples available in the buffet for this exact reason.

Ports, Excursions & Time Ashore

Your ship will typically dock in the morning (around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM) and leave in the late afternoon (around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM). You have two main options for exploring:

What Makes Cruises Different from Standard Holidays?

Cruising has specific nuances that impact your safety and insurance needs. This is where planning differs from a standard beach holiday.

Medical Care at Sea

Cruise ships have medical centres, but they are not NHS facilities. They are private medical providers. A simple consultation for a minor ailment can cost significantly more than you might expect, and costs are charged to your onboard account. If you suffer a serious medical emergency, you may need to be airlifted to a hospital on land. This evacuation can cost tens of thousands of pounds.

Itinerary Changes

Unlike a hotel that stays put, a ship can move to avoid bad weather. It is not uncommon for a captain to skip a port due to high winds. This is for your safety. While disappointing, experienced cruisers know to "go with the flow".

Connectivity

While most ships have Wi-Fi (often Starlink), it is expensive compared to land. Many people choose to disconnect while at sea and only use roaming data when docked in port (check your mobile provider's roaming charges for the destinations you are visiting).

Costs & Budgeting: What Catches First-Timers Out?

Cruises are often advertised as "all-inclusive", but your final bill can add up if you aren't prepared for the extras.