For many, a cruise is the ultimate vacation: sunlight and sparkling blue ocean in the luxurious surroundings of a cruise ship, with entertainment and activity of every kind at your fingertips, and more food than you could ever eat. Cruises allow you to visit new places and see new sights without having to pack up and move every night. You start your vacation with your accommodations and most of your meals paid for. Still, those who've never cruised might be nervous about what to expect and how to prepare for their first cruise.
Many people overpack for vacations, and cruises are no exception. Most people will do fine with a couple of bathing suits (wear one and leave the other to dry from the day before), a bathing suit cover-up, one or two dressy outfits for formal dinners (a suit for the man), and three or four casual outfits for onboard and shore excursions. Pack sandals or flip-flops for lounging by the pool, comfortable walking shoes and a pair of dress shoes.
Don't forget prescription medication, an extra pair or glasses or contacts if you wear them, sunblock, toiletries and a few first-aid supplies, such as Tylenol and antacid. You'll be able to obtain some supplies on the ship, but they will be more expensive than what you'll pay for them at home.
Be sure to use the baggage tag the cruise line will supply to mark your luggage. Write your name and cabin number on the tag.
Expect to spend 30 minutes to an hour checking in for your cruise. Have your passport and all your travel documents ready to present at check in. You'll be issued a key card for your cabin that also serves as a charge card for all the extra charges you incur on board the ship. Keep this card with you. As you board the ship, someone will take your picture.
Usually someone will show you to your cabin, but in some cases you'll be left to find it on your own. Ask for a map of the cruise ship, which will help you locate your room, restaurants, the gym and other facilities.
Cruises are known for their abundant food. Some cruises will assign you to a specific table and dining time in the main restaurant, while others will give you a choice of restaurants. On some cruises, dining in certain premium restaurants entails a surcharge, so be aware of this. Cruises also offer buffets, grills and coffee shops, so you'll be sure to find some kind of food you like. Remember that on most cruises, alcoholic beverages are extra; tips are usually added automatically for bar service.
The ship's newsletter will print a schedule of daily activities, so look this over and decide what you'd like to try. You can attend lectures and classes, work out at the gym, play games or simply relax by the pool. Some cruise ships show movies or have an onboard casino. Some activities cost extra; don't be afraid to ask if this is the case.
You'll also want to take advantage of shore excursions at the ship's various ports of call. Many times you can sign up for these in advance of your cruise. If you haven't signed up by the time you board the ship, decide on which excursions you'd like to take part in as soon as possible and sign up within a day or two of boarding to be assured a spot on the tour.
