Whether you’re looking for a romantic holiday for two, calling at sun-kissed exotic shores or a fun-filled family holiday with so many exciting things to do that there’s no time to be bored, a cruise could be your perfect choice.
Your holiday begins from the moment you step aboard your ship and enjoy the dazzling array of facilities and entertainments on offer. And even though you may be calling at a number of truly fabulous destinations during your holiday, it’s nice to know that you’ll only have to unpack your suitcase once during the entire trip.
If you’re planning a cruise holiday for the first time, you can be assured of comfort, good food, safety and convenience, but just to make sure that your first cruise is every bit as enjoyable and memorable as it can be here are five tips that will help to make the perfect first cruise.
1 – Opt for an outside cabin if possible
If you’re unsure as to how well you’re going to adjust to a life on the ocean wave, an outside cabin will provide natural light and an ocean view. Depending upon the deck level of the cruise ship at which your outside cabin is located it will feature a porthole (nearer sea level) or a window (higher up the ship). The price of an outside cabin will depend on this deck level, and the most expensive will have its own private balcony. Whether an inside or outside cabin, both will provide the same high standards of furnishing, storage and facilities.
2 – Take a little time to explore the layout of the ship
Once you know where your cabin is you’ll have a little spare time before your luggage is delivered – this gives you the perfect opportunity to have a quick nose around the ship to help you familiarize yourself with where everything is; you may be surprised at just how much there is! Modern cruise ships are akin to luxury floating cities, with shopping arcades, swimming pools, cinemas, libraries, casinos, numerous bars and restaurants and much more to discover. One of the first things you’ll do on your cruise is attend a mandatory lifeboat drill, so it’s a good idea to make a mental note of the location of your ‘muster point’.
3 – Don’t delay in booking excursions and activities
While there will be many opportunities to partake in all kinds of pre-arranged trips, visits and activities at each of your cruise’s destinations it’s advisable to obtain a list of everything that’s available as soon as possible and book those that you definitely want to do as soon as possible as some excursions and activities may be offered on a limited ‘first come, first served’ basis.
4 – A Tip about Tipping
One of the best things about a cruise is the high standard of service you’ll receive. If you wish to reward your steward, cabin porter or waiter by tipping them many cruise lines publish recommended guidelines for tipping. Beware, however, when buying drinks from the bar – many cruise lines automatically add a 10-15% service charge to bar purchases so check this beforehand otherwise you may end up inadvertently tipping twice for your drinks service.
5 – There’s no need to pack the kitchen sink!
Many experienced cruise holidaymakers confess that they packed far too much for their first cruise because they didn’t know any better. Laundry services are available on board ship (as are clothing stores in an emergency). As a maximum you’re only likely to need three pairs of shoes – one smart, one comfortable (trainers, for example) and one for the beach or pool (flip-flops or sandals).
The fewer cases you pack the less you’ll need to tip porters, and the less inconvenience you’ll have before and after the cruise. Your best bet is to pack items that can be mixed and matched, and plan on packing one outfit for approximately every two days of your cruise. Travel documents, electronic items, sun cream, toiletries, sunglasses and medication can all go into a ‘carry-on’ bag.
About the author: Amy Sawyer is a freelance travel writer currently working for Royal Caribbean Cruises from the UK who offer a choice of cruise holidays with something for everyone.
Photos courtesy of Thomas Quine and Derek Hatfield respectively.