Essential tips for cruise newbies

Are you preparing to set off on your first cruise? If so, the possibilities of unforgettable experiences aboard a luxurious ship - from viewing exotic landscapes to savouring delicious food and attending thrilling onboard activities - can be nothing short of overwhelming. 

But don't worry! Whether it's an ocean voyage or a river cruise, we're here to provide you with some essential tips that will make your journey smooth sailing. Keep reading for our best advice on navigating ship life as a cruise newbie!

Research your cruise before you go

Get familiar with the cruise company, amenities, activities, and destinations. 

Embarking on a cruise can be a thrilling adventure, but it's important to do your research before setting sail. Take the time to get familiar with the cruise company, amenities, activities, and destinations. By doing so, you'll be able to make the most of your trip and feel less overwhelmed when you step on board. 

 Each cruise line offers something unique, and it's important to find the one that best suits your preferences. Whether you're interested in soaking up the sun on a tropical beach or exploring historical landmarks, knowing what your ship has to offer can help you plan the perfect itinerary.

Packing essentials

Bring items like sunblock, bug repellent, a first aid kit, and comfortable walking shoes.

Packing for a cruise can be both exciting and overwhelming. But there are certain essentials that you should never forget to bring, such as sunscreen, bug repellent, and a first aid kit. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays and pesky insects is crucial for a comfortable and safe holiday. And in case of any unexpected injuries or accidents, having a first aid kit on hand can be a lifesaver. 

Don't forget to pack comfortable walking shoes, too. Whether you're exploring a new city or hiking through the wilderness, a good pair of shoes will ensure that your feet stay happy and blister-free. Make sure not to leave these packing essentials behind!

For more information on ideas on what to pack for your cruise, check out our Ultimate Packing List.

Don't miss the ship’s orientation

Learn about safety procedures and how to navigate the ship. 

There's nothing quite like the excitement that comes with setting sail on a cruise ship. But before you get caught up in all the fun, it's important not to overlook the ship's orientation. This is your chance to learn about all the safety procedures that will keep you and your fellow passengers protected while at sea.

 You'll also get a chance to learn how to navigate the ship, so you can find your way around without getting lost. Missing the ship's orientation might seem like a small thing, but it could end up having a big impact on your overall cruise experience.

Know your way around 

Find a map of the deck so you can easily find shops, restaurants, and entertainment. 

Navigating a large cruise ship can be vert confusing, so it's important to know your way around. One of the best ways to do this is by having a map of the ship on hand. This will not only help you find shops and restaurants, but also entertainment options like theatres and lounges. 

By knowing exactly where everything is located, you can save time and energy that would otherwise be spent wandering aimlessly trying to find what you're looking for. Cruise ships usually have maps dotted around; however, you should also be able to find a paper map from one of the information desks, too.

Take advantage of onboard activities 

Participate in games, shows, trivia contests, cooking classes, and more.

When on a cruise, it's important to take advantage of all the onboard activities available to you. There's no shortage of things to do, from theatre productions to trivia contests and even cooking classes. You will surely be able to find something to do when at sea. 

Each cruise ship is different when it comes to onboard entertainment. Some offer nightclubs and cocktail bars, whilst others offer a more traditional, black-tie affair. You can find information on all the shows and day activities that are taking place from the on-board itineraries. 

These activities aren't just a great opportunity to have fun and meet new people, but they also allow you to take home new skills and experiences. 

Make sure you have enough cash onboard

It's best to bring cash in different denominations for shopping and tips. 

 When preparing for your travels, it's always a good idea to make sure you have enough cash onboard. While credit cards are widely accepted, there are still many places that prefer cash payments. As such, it's wise to bring cash in different denominations to ensure you're always prepared for shopping opportunities.

 Plus, having cash on hand can give you a sense of security and peace of mind, especially in areas where card skimming, and fraud is common. So, before you embark on your journey, make sure to exchange currency to have enough on hand for all your needs.

Protect yourself from motion sickness

Try using wristbands or taking medication if necessary.

 Motion sickness can be a debilitating condition, causing unpleasant symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and sweating. However, you don't have to suffer in silence. There are various ways to protect yourself from motion sickness, including the use of specially designed wristbands that apply pressure to certain points on the wrist to alleviate symptoms.

Additionally, medication such as anti-nausea or ginger supplements can help to prevent or lessen the effects of motion sickness. If you are unsure whether you suffer from motion sickness, it is always best to be prepared, so you can enjoy your journey without any discomfort.

Sail away with proper documentation

Bring copies of passports or other forms of identification when travelling abroad.

Before embarking on any international journey, it's essential to ensure that all necessary documentation is in order. This means bringing copies of passports or other forms of identification that are required for entering foreign countries.

Even if you have already checked in with the necessary authorities, it's still a good idea to have backup copies on hand in case something goes wrong. Imagine finding yourself in a foreign land, unable to prove your identity because you lost your passport, or it was stolen. That's a situation you don't want to be in! Back-up documentation can help you avoid a lot of unnecessary complications and make your travels smooth and stress-free.

And of course, don't forget to keep a copy of your travel insurance documents handy. Most insurance providers will email you a copy of your policy documents, so be sure to save them in a place where you can access them easily in case of an emergency.