Cruise Tips for Beginners
LoveitBookit’s cruise specialists are very passionate about cruising. Each team member has explored an average of 22 cruise ships and as a team, we've visited over 250 destinations worldwide. Here are our top five cruise tips for first-time cruisers:
1. Research ports prior to the trip.
It can be quite overwhelming, arriving somewhere completely new with no previous research about where you are visiting. Take the time to do your research about each port before you travel, so you know exactly what you want to see and what excursions you may want to book. You will usually spend only a day or a few hours at each port, so it’ll be helpful having a plan on what to do to make the most of your time while you’re there.
2. Learn cruise jargon.
Being well-equipped with cruise terminology knowledge will help you get around faster both onshore and onboard. If you’re a newbie to the cruising culture, here are some of the important terms you must be familiar with before you step aboard your first cruise:
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Embark - to get on the cruise ship at the beginning of your trip
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Disembark - to leave the ship at the end of your trip
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Stern/Aft - the rear of the ship
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Fore/Forward - the front of the ship
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Port side - the left side of the ship
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Starboard - the right side of the ship
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Cabin/Stateroom - a room onboard
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Deck - the level or floor of the ship
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Departure port - the place where the cruise begins
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Embarkation port - the place where the cruise ends
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Port of call - the destination of your cruise
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Shore excursion - an organised activity or experience at the port of call
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Dock - a place where the ship is tied or “parked”
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Tender - a small boat that will transport you from the ship to the shore in cases that the cruise ship cannot directly dock at the port
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Gangway - an elevated ramp or stairway that you will use to board the ship
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Muster Drill - a mandatory safety drill at the start of the cruise which aims to familiarise crew and passengers on what to do and where to go during an emergency
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Muster Station/Point - the location where passengers must gather during an emergency
3. Bring a well-equipped carry-on bag.
We recommend you to pack a carry-on bag which includes your essentials, such as medications, personal toiletries, and chargers, as well as your travel documents like passport, cruise/plane tickets, and visa documents. Be sure to pack everything you need for your first hours on the cruise in your carry-on bag, such as swimwear and suncream, so you can head straight to the pool deck and enjoy the weather as you wait for your cabin.
4. Book activities and tours in advance.
The majority of cruise lines will let you sign up for onboard and land activities, such as shows, programs, tours, as well as access to onboard dining in specialty restaurants, months before your scheduled departure. Some even let you book shore excursions as soon as you confirm your cruise reservation, though you can also arrange them onboard at the ship’s shore excursion desk. If there are specific tours or activities you’re eager to experience, especially popular ones, it’s best to book early, as they tend to sell out quickly. Keep in mind that these activities typically come with an additional cost on most cruise lines.
5. No need to do it all.
Don’t feel overwhelmed by the wide range of options or pressure yourself to experience everything. This is your holiday – a chance to relax and enjoy yourself. Remember, you can always take another cruise in the future and explore new activities both on board and ashore. When the ship docks, you’re not limited to the organised excursions provided by the cruise line. You’re free to explore at your own pace and create your own adventure! Just ensure you’re back on the ship by the designated departure time – how you spend your time in port is entirely up to you.
