What to pay attention to when traveling on a cruise ship?
When you get ready for a cruise, pay attention to the details that can make your trip smooth and fun. Make sure you plan ahead, pack smart, and know the safety steps on board. Cruise ships have special rules about electronics and power adapters, so double-check what you bring. > Remember, feeling prepared helps you relax and enjoy every moment at sea.
Key Takeaways
- Pick the best cruise for your trip goals. Make a list of what is most important to you before you book.
- Bring a small bag with things you need, like medicine, clothes, and papers. This helps you have what you need right away.
- Watch the cruise ship time. Change your phone and watch to match the ship’s time. This helps you not miss meals or fun things.
- Join the safety drill on the ship. Learning what to do in an emergency keeps you safe and ready.
- Look for extra costs that can come up on your cruise. Make a budget so you do not get surprised and can enjoy your trip.
What to Pay Attention to Before You Cruise
Choose Your Cruise
Picking the best cruise can make your trip special. Think about what you want from your vacation. Do you want adventure, family time, or a romantic trip? Families like places such as Singapore with Gardens by the Bay or Stockholm’s ABBA Museum. If you want excitement, find cruises with hiking or UNESCO World Heritage Sites. See if the ship has things for kids or teens to do. If you need help moving around, check if the ports are easy to use.
Tip: Write down what is most important to you before booking.
Common mistakes travelers make before a cruise:
- Getting to check-in too early or too late
- Not packing a carry-on with important items
- Not finishing online check-in
- Putting too much in your carry-on
- Not turning your phone to airplane mode
- Wearing shoes or clothes that are not comfy
- Eating or drinking too much at the sailaway party
- Not taking time to relax and have fun
Book at the Right Time
Cruise prices go up and down during the year. If you want to save money, watch when you book. Summer months like July cost more because it is peak season. September is off-peak, so prices are lower. Here is a table showing how prices change:
| Destination | Peak Season | Off-Peak Season | Price (Peak) | Price (Off-Peak) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caribbean | July | September | $1,186 | $758 |
| Mediterranean | July | September | $1,186 | $758 |
| Alaska | July | September | Higher | Lower |
Prepare Documents
You need the right papers to get on your cruise. Most cruises want a passport that is good for six months after your trip. If you are a U.S. citizen, sometimes a birth certificate is okay, but check the rules. Permanent residents should bring their green card. If you travel with kids, you may need a special form from their guardian. Some countries want visas or electronic travel papers.
Note: Always check what your cruise line needs before you go.
Get Travel Insurance
Travel insurance helps you feel safe and calm on your trip. Many people buy insurance for trip cancellations, medical problems, lost bags, travel delays, and emergency help. About 60% of travelers aged 46-60 get insurance, and 45% of younger people do. If something bad happens, insurance can save you money and worry.
Pro tip: Read your policy so you know what it covers.
Packing Essentials
Carry-On Must-Haves
Packing your carry-on bag the right way can make your first day on the ship much easier. You might not get your checked luggage right away, so you want to have the most important things with you. Here are the top five items cruise experts say you should always pack in your carry-on:
- Cruise lanyard – You will use your room key all the time. A lanyard keeps it handy and safe.
- A bottle of wine and a 12-pack of soda – Most cruise lines let you bring these for your own use. You can enjoy your favorite drinks as soon as you board.
- Poolside essentials – Pack your swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You can jump in the pool or relax in the sun right after you get on the ship.
- Workout gear and headphones – If you want to hit the gym or go for a walk, you will have everything you need.
- A change of clothing – Sometimes you want to freshen up before dinner or activities. A clean outfit makes you feel ready for anything.
Tip: Always keep your medications, travel documents, and valuables in your carry-on. You do not want to risk losing them or waiting hours to get them back.
What Not to Pack
Cruise ships have strict rules about what you can bring. Security checks every bag before you board. If you pack the wrong things, you might lose them for the whole trip. Here are some items that cruise security often takes away:
- Alcohol (liquor, beer, open bottles)
- Power strips and extension cords
- Coffee makers and electric kettles
- Clothing irons and garment steamers
- Candles and incense burners
- Bluetooth speakers
You should also skip packing sharp objects, drones, or anything that could be dangerous. If you are not sure about an item, check your cruise line’s website or ask before you pack.
Note: If you bring something that is not allowed, security will take it. You might not get it back until the end of your cruise.
Cruise-Approved Power Adapters
Charging your devices on a cruise can be tricky. Most cabins have only a few outlets, and you might want to charge your phone, camera, or tablet at the same time. But you need to be careful about what kind of adapter you bring.
Most cruise lines do not allow surge-protected power strips. They ban them because surge protectors can cause problems with the ship’s electrical system. Some cruise lines, like Royal Caribbean, do not allow any power strips or extension cords at all. They only let you use USB charging blocks. Other cruise lines still allow non-surge power strips.
If you want to stay safe and follow the rules, choose a cruise-approved adapter. Models like the DOACE LC-X30, LC-C30, HC-C11, and HC-X11 work well because they do not have surge protection. These adapters let you charge several devices at once and meet cruise ship rules.
Important: Do not bring adapters with surge protection, like the LC-X35. Security may take them away, and you will not be able to use them during your trip.
When you pack the right adapter, you can keep your devices charged and avoid any trouble at check-in. Always double-check your cruise line’s policy before you travel.
Onboard Experience
Dining and Activities
You step onto the ship and see so many places to eat and things to do. Cruise lines include a wide range of dining options in your fare. You can grab a burger by the pool, enjoy pizza on deck, or sit down for a fancy dinner. If you want a snack late at night, room service is available. Special meals, like kosher dishes, are also offered if you ask.
Here’s a quick look at what you might find:
| Dining Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Princess Dining | Regional and comfort food, sit-down meals, and grab-and-go snacks |
| Fine Dining | Elegant rooms with gourmet selections |
| World Fresh Marketplace | Buffet-style dining with specialties and comfort food |
| Top-Deck Pizza | Fresh Neapolitan-style pizza on deck |
| Grilled Burgers and Hot Dogs | Made-to-order burgers and hot dogs by the pool |
| Soft-Serve Ice Cream | Complimentary ice cream on deck |
| 24-Hour Room Service | Snacks and meals delivered to your stateroom |
| Special Dietary Requests | Kosher meals available upon request |
You also find plenty of activities. You can swim, join trivia games, watch live shows, or try a cooking class. Some ships have movie nights, dance lessons, or sports tournaments. You never run out of things to do, so pay attention to the daily schedule posted around the ship.
Pay Attention to Ship Time
Cruise ships often travel through different time zones. The ship keeps its own time, called "ship time." You need to pay attention to ship time because it controls when you eat, join activities, and return from shore excursions. If you use your phone or watch, double-check that it matches ship time. Missing the ship’s schedule can mean missing meals or even getting left behind at a port.
Tip: Set your phone to airplane mode and manually adjust the clock to match ship time. Crew members can help if you’re unsure.
Safety Drills
Safety comes first on every cruise. You must join a safety drill, called a muster drill, within 24 hours of boarding. The crew shows you how to use life jackets and where to go in an emergency. If you skip the drill, the ship’s officers may call your name over the loudspeaker. You might have to attend a makeup drill, and repeated non-compliance could lead to being asked to leave the ship.
Here’s what you need to know about safety drills:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Muster Drills | Held within 24 hours of embarkation, includes a safety briefing |
| Documentation | Crew keeps logs of all drills |
| Inspections | Coast guards and maritime authorities check for compliance |
| Penalties | Fines, penalties, or ship detention for non-compliance |
You should always pay attention during the drill and follow crew instructions. Knowing what to do in an emergency helps you stay safe.
Health and Hygiene
Staying healthy on a cruise means you need to wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer. The most common health issue is norovirus, which causes stomach problems. Norovirus spreads quickly through food or contact with sick people. The CDC checks cruise ships for cleanliness and investigates outbreaks if many passengers get sick.
Here are some simple ways to protect yourself:
- Wash your hands before eating and after using the restroom.
- Use hand sanitizer stations around the ship.
- Avoid touching your face.
- If you feel sick, tell the medical staff right away.
Note: If you see crew members cleaning public areas, they are working to keep everyone healthy.
Find Your Way Around
Cruise ships are big, and it’s easy to get lost. You can use several tools to help you find your way. Crew members hand out pocket-sized maps when you board. You see plexiglas deck plans near elevators and stairways. Your cabin door has an emergency escape diagram. Electronic touchscreens show your location and directions. Foldable maps are available at check-in, and cruise line apps give step-by-step directions on your phone.
- Pocket-sized maps from crew
- Plexiglas deck plans by elevators
- Emergency diagrams on cabin doors
- Touchscreen info boards throughout the ship
- Foldable maps at check-in
- Deck plans in cruise line apps
If you pay attention to these resources, you can move around the ship easily and safely. Take a few minutes on your first day to explore and learn the layout. You’ll feel more confident and enjoy your cruise even more.
Shore Excursions
Pick the Right Excursion
Shore excursions are a big part of any cruise. You get to explore new places, try fun activities, and make great memories. But not every excursion fits every traveler. Before you book, ask yourself what you really want from your day off the ship.
- Think about your travel style. Do you love relaxing on the beach, or do you want an adventure?
- Look for excursions that match your interests, like food tours, nature walks, or cultural visits.
- Check the activity level. Some tours are gentle, while others need more energy.
- If you have mobility needs, search for tours that offer wheelchair access or less walking.
- Make sure the physical demands fit your abilities. You want to enjoy the day, not struggle through it.
Tip: Read the excursion descriptions carefully. If you’re unsure, ask the cruise staff for advice.
Know Your Limits
You want to have fun, but you also need to stay safe. Some excursions require you to be in good physical and mental shape. If you have any medical conditions, think twice before signing up for activities that might be too hard.
Common health issues that can affect your plans include:
- Seizures
- Dizziness or fainting
- Heart or breathing problems
- Back or neck pain
- Any other condition that makes physical activity risky
If you feel unsure, talk to your doctor before your trip. It’s better to choose something you know you can handle.
Stay on Schedule
Cruise ships run on a tight schedule. If you join a cruise line-sponsored excursion, the staff will make sure you get back on time. They even have ways to contact the ship if there’s a delay. But if you explore on your own, you need to pay attention to the time. Most people who miss the ship do so because they went out alone and lost track of time. The ship won’t wait, so always plan to return early.
Pro tip: Set an alarm on your phone and double-check the ship’s departure time before you leave.
Budget and Payments
What’s Included
When you book a cruise, you get many things. Your fare pays for your room and more. You can use lots of services for free. Here are some things you get:
- A nice stateroom to sleep in
- Free restaurants and buffets to eat at
- Breakfast brought to your room
- Free drinks like water, coffee, tea, lemonade, and juice
- Pools, hot tubs, and waterslides to enjoy
- Shows, music, and movies for entertainment
- Fun games like mini golf, rock climbing, zipline, and bumper cars
- Fitness center and some workout classes
- Clubs for kids and teens ages 3-17
- Cruise line’s app for chatting and checking schedules
Tip: Check your cruise line’s website for a full list. Some ships give you even more!
Extra Costs
Cruises give you a lot, but some things cost extra. You can spend more money if you do not pay attention. Watch out for these extra charges:
- Tips and service fees
- Special dining and drinks like soda, cocktails, or fancy coffee
- Shore trips and tours
- Wi-Fi and internet
- Shopping and souvenirs on the ship
- Room service and corkage fees
- Port fees and taxes
If you want to save money, pick the extras that matter most before you go.
Payment Options
Paying for things on a cruise is easy. You make an onboard account when you check in. Most people use credit cards, but you have other ways too:
- Credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express
- Cash to add money to your account
- Gift cards from the cruise line or big credit card companies
- Digital payments like PayPal, Apple Pay, and MasterPass (on some ships)
- Future cruise credits, points, or miles
- Payment plans like Carnival’s Auto Pay or Royal Caribbean’s Affirm
All payments use U.S. dollars. ATMs are on the ship if you need cash, but there are fees. If you come from another country, your bank may charge you extra fees.
Note: You cannot use foreign money on the ship, so plan ahead and bring what you need.
Practical Cruise Tips
Manage Your Time
You want to make the most of every moment on your cruise. Start by checking the daily program. It shows all the activities and events for the day. You can plan your schedule and make sure you do not miss anything fun. Here are some smart ways to manage your time:
- Look at the daily program and pick your favorite activities.
- Research each port before you arrive. You will know what to see and do.
- Reserve spots for popular shows or dinners. You will not have to wait in line.
- Take breaks between activities. You need time to relax and recharge.
- Set a budget for your trip. Track your spending so you do not run out of money.
Tip: Use your phone or a small notebook to keep track of your plans and spending.
Avoid Crowds
Cruise ships can get busy, but you can find quiet spots if you know where to look. Try these tricks to avoid crowds:
- Eat meals earlier or later than most people. Buffets are less crowded then.
- Go outside in the early morning or late afternoon. You will enjoy the fresh air and fewer people.
- Stay inside during the hottest part of the day. Indoor activities are cooler and less crowded.
- Stay on the ship when most guests go ashore. You will have pools and lounges almost to yourself.
- Explore hidden corners of the ship. Some decks and lounges stay quiet all day.
- Book a suite if you want access to exclusive areas with fewer guests.
Note: Ask crew members about quiet places. They know the best spots!
Ask for Help
You never have to handle problems alone on a cruise. Friendly staff are ready to help with anything you need. If you have questions or special needs, reach out to Guest Services. They can answer questions about accessibility or offer sensory bags for guests who need them. Youth staff help kids with sensory needs by providing games and weighted vests. Families can meet with Guest Services when they board to talk about special accommodations.
If you need help, just ask. The crew wants you to have a great trip!
If you plan and pack well, your cruise will go smoothly. Take out your important things first. Pick clothes you can wear in many ways. Bring things like sunscreen and a small backpack. Follow cruise rules and use adapters like the DOACE LC-X30. This helps you avoid problems. The ship has good service, food, and fun things to do. Every day can feel special. When you pay attention to small things, you can relax and stay safe. You will enjoy every part of your trip. Get ready to feel sure of yourself and happy for your cruise!
FAQ
What should you do if you forget something important at home?
Don’t worry! Visit the ship’s shops or ask Guest Services. Most ships sell basic items like toothpaste, sunscreen, or chargers. For special needs, crew members can help you find a solution.
Can you bring your own power adapter on a cruise?
Yes, you can bring a power adapter, but it must not have surge protection. Choose cruise-approved models like the DOACE LC-X30. Security may take away adapters with surge protection.
How do you pay for things on the ship?
You use your cruise card for almost everything. The ship links it to your credit card or cash deposit. You can check your balance at Guest Services or on the cruise app.
What happens if you miss the ship at a port?
If you miss the ship, contact the port agent listed in the daily schedule. They can help you rejoin the ship at the next port. Always keep your passport and important documents with you.