What first time cruisers REALLY need to know!

We have cruised many times on various cruise lines now and I hear so many stories about how you HAVE to take this or that. Many times these things are silly and take up too much space in your suitcase. 

Boarding - The itinerary says 4pm, but that is the time the ship actually sails away! 

Boarding times vary with each cruise line, ship, and departure port so it is important to confirm this with your travel agent in advance to plan accordingly. If your ship departs around 4pm, plan to be at the port around 11am to maximize your first day on board. Many cruise lines are going to a staggered check in plan, so you may have an arrival time already set for you. Lunch will be served at the buffet and most of the quick service locations on the lido deck are open, like pizza and burgers. Many cruise lines have a dining room open for lunch the day you board. Cabins are generally open for you by 1:30pm.

 

Our daughter was waiting for the rest of the family to finish lunch so we could go explore. 

There was no line to get into the buffet when we arrived around 11:30. This was the line by 1pm! So if you want to enjoy lunch on the ship, try to get to the port earlier.

Carry on - Check in is similar to the airport. There are porters outside of the building that will take all of your baggage to go through security that will be delivered to your cabin later. In your carry on bag make sure you pack anything that you will need the rest of the day. Medications, a change of clothes, any electronics, etc. Also, remember that you can carry on wine! Each line has a different policy, so be sure to check before sailing. Don't forget the corkscrew!

Organizers- You don't need to pack your house to go on a cruise.. So many blogger websites say to pack an over the door organizer, but after being on multiple ships and cruise lines this is not ideal. Yes, there is limited counter space, but there are drawers, cabinets, and extra shelves. They try to take advantage of all the counter space available in the cabin. Not to mention, you are there for a week or less usually. Don't over pack! The only thing we always make sure to pack though is medications, including simple things like Tylenol. We usually just leave them in our bathroom bag, but it is better to have medications when needed rather then have to go search for it! I've seen a nightlight suggested many times too, but most times there is not an outlet that works in the bathroom. I suggest a battery operated votive that you can get at the dollar store. That way you can put it where ever you want. Remember that you are on a moving ship and if you leave the bathroom door unlatched, it will open and close on its own. If you have a toddler with you, a foam door stopper might be a need for your family!

The tiered rack is great for things that you need in the bathroom. The shower usually has body wash and a shampoo/conditioner combo to use. There is rarely a shelf/storage in the shower for your own items. 

Cruise Line Apps - Many cruise lines now have their own app where you connect to the ship and are able to view menus, hours, activities and more for free. For a few dollars many cruise lines have a texting program that allows you to talk to other cruisers. This is perfect for families that want to do different things on board but know where there teen is, or reach other members in their party. Download the app before you leave home! It also has times for dining, and activities that are offered on the cruise. Princess even has it set up so you can order your breakfast for the next morning to be delivered to your cabin. 

Debarkation - This is a mystery to many first time cruisers. The last night of the cruise you pack up all of your bags and place them outside of your cabin. They will be collected and taken off the ship for you. Don't forget to lay out a full outfit and anything you need in the morning. The most common things that people pack by accident are shoes, belts, and bras! Once you exit the ship you will find your bags in the number/color that your tag is that was given to you to place on your bags. Our daughter has some medical issues so we take her booster seat with since she enjoys sitting through dinner with us. If you have any questions, I'd be happy to help!

Please contact me for your next Cruise!

jenniehenn@gmail.com

~ Jennifer 

412-716-5065 / 770-924-7116