How To Plan A Cruise For The First Time
First-Time Cruiser? How To Book A Cruise Vacation Like A Pro
By Chantae Reden | Published on June 5, 2023
Longtime cruisers know how exciting and yet relaxing a cruise can be. World-class entertainment, scrumptious dining options and adventure activities are just steps away from your stateroom. Out at sea, the stars are brighter than they are on land, and when you open your eyes in the morning, you're often in a new destination. If you're dreaming of a trip that's bound to be memorable, here's how to plan a cruise for the first time.
How To Choose The Right Cruise For First-Time Cruisers
With hundreds of ports of call around the world spanning from the Caribbean to Europe to the South Pacific and beyond, the options of where to go for your first-time cruise are nearly limitless. If you're not sure where to begin, one of the best first-time cruise tips is to look at how much time you have to travel. If you're searching for a quick getaway, a short cruise to Mexico, the Caribbean or Catalina Island might be within reach. Or, if longer escapes are more your style, embark on a seven-night (or longer) cruise to Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and beyond. There is bound to be a cruise that fits your dream destination and ideal length of time.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Once you book your cruise, select the shore excursions you'll want to do during your trip. These range from shopping trips, walking tours, cooking classes, cultural performances, zip lines, ATV rides, scuba diving and snorkeling trips and countless other activities. Your shore excursions will help you decide what to pack on your trip, so it's wise to think about them before you set sail.
What To Expect On Your First Cruise
Your cruise will depart from a port where you'll check in and board the ship. As far as cruise tips for first-timers go, it's always recommended to give yourself as much time in a destination as possible. It's worth arriving a night or two before your cruise departs so you have time to enjoy the activities and scenery that the port city has to offer. It's like a mini vacation before a vacation! Before my cruise from Miami, my friend and I went to museums, buzzed though Everglades National Park and enjoyed the thrum of the city's nightlife.
Once it's time to board your cruise, you'll check in with your luggage, which will be taken to your stateroom. This is a great time to explore the ship and discover your soon-to-be favorite lounge spots, the dining areas, the entertainment rooms, spa, shops and more. For a laid-back start, pack a bathing suit and change of clothes in your carry-on bag to enjoy the sunshine from the get-go.
Cruise days are spent either at sea or at a port of call. While the ship is at sea, take advantage of all the activities, entertainment areas, dining venues, spa treatments and more, or spend the day in the shade with a drink in one hand and a book in the other. Once the ship arrives at port, you'll venture out on any shore excursions you have planned or venture around the destination on your own.
First-Time Cruiser Packing Tips
When you're packing for your cruise, consider the destination you'll be traveling to and the weather it'll likely have that time of year. Lightweight, airy fabrics that easily layer are ideal for cruises to the Caribbean, while jeans, a blouse and a jacket might be more suitable for an autumn cruise to Europe. No matter where you're going — or how long you're going for — grab pieces of clothing that are comfortable, versatile and are easy to mix and match. Many itineraries have a formal night onboard, and it's a fun experience to go all out if you wish.
Multifunctional pieces are wise to bring along on a cruise no matter the destination. A sarong can act as a scarf in chilly weather, a lounge towel on the beach and a cover-up for a night on the town. Sporty sandals with tread will carry you from the pool deck to jungle trails. Meanwhile, a button-up is great for protecting your skin against sunshine and wind and can be dressed up or down. If you're planning plenty of adventure excursions, pack plenty of athletic attire. If you'll mostly be exploring city streets, embrace a stylish yet comfortable ensemble. The great thing about a cruise is you only have to unpack once, no matter how many ports of call you visit.
First-Time Cruise Checklist
Your first-time cruise checklist should include; identification documents, your wallet, toiletries, medications, sightseeing clothes, swimming attire, a formal outfit, socks and undergarments, sun protection, a camera, binoculars (for wildlife watching), a dry bag, sandals, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses and a hat.
Get To Know The Ship
The ship will be your home away from home while you're on your cruise. Ships such as Royal Caribbean's fleet of Oasis Class ships have multiple world-class dining venues, thrill-seeking rides, theaters, lounge spaces, pools and entertainment areas onboard. One way to take advantage of the ship's exciting features is to learn about each ship before your trip online on the Cruise Ship Hub. Here, you'll find an overview of the ship's highlights, deck plans, things to do, room options and trip details. Don't be surprised if you find yourself choosing a ship and then the destination you'll cruise to based on upcoming itineraries. A cruise is an experience unlike any other.
