What to Know Before Taking Your First Cruise
Why Your First Cruise Feels Different
A cruise isn’t like any other vacation — it’s part resort, part adventure, and part floating city. For first-time cruisers, it can feel overwhelming: where to go, what to pack, how to book, and what to expect once you’re on board. The good news? With the right tips, your first cruise can be smooth sailing from start to finish.
This guide covers everything you need to know before embarking on your first cruise — from choosing the right ship to making the most of your time at sea.
Choose the Right Cruise Line
Not all cruise lines are created equal. Some cater to families, others to couples, and some to luxury seekers.
- Carnival: Affordable, lively, party atmosphere
- Royal Caribbean: Family-friendly with lots of activities
- Norwegian: Flexible dining options and freestyle cruising
- Disney Cruise Line: Perfect for families with kids
- Celebrity & Princess: More refined, geared toward adults
- Viking & Oceania: Luxury and cultural experiences
Pro tip: Think about your travel style and preferences before booking. The cruise line sets the tone for your whole trip.
Pick the Right Cabin
Your cabin is your home base, so choose wisely.
- Inside cabins: Cheapest, but no windows
- Oceanview cabins: Windows with natural light, mid-priced
- Balcony cabins: Private outdoor space, great for sea views
- Suites: Spacious, luxury perks
Pro tip: If you get seasick, book a mid-ship, lower-level cabin for less motion.
Understand What’s Included
Cruises advertise “all-inclusive,” but not everything is free. Usually included:
- Your cabin
- Main dining room and buffet meals
- Some onboard entertainment and activities
Not always included:
- Specialty dining
- Alcoholic beverages
- Shore excursions
- Internet access
- Gratuities
Pro tip: Factor in these extras when budgeting to avoid surprises.
Plan Your Shore Excursions Early
Ports of call are the highlight of a cruise. You can:
- Book excursions through the cruise line (easier, but pricier)
- Book with independent tour companies (cheaper, more flexible)
- Explore on your own (adventurous, but requires research)
Pro tip: Popular excursions sell out quickly, so book early.
Pack Smart
Packing for a cruise is a little different than other vacations. Essentials include:
- Cruise documents and passport
- Casual clothes for daytime
- Dressier outfits for “formal nights” (some cruises still require them)
- Swimwear and cover-ups
- Seasickness remedies (bands, patches, medication)
- Power strip (outlets are limited)
- Refillable water bottle
Pro tip: Pack a carry-on with essentials for the first day. Your checked luggage might not arrive at your cabin until later.
Learn Cruise Etiquette
Cruise ships have their own unspoken rules.
- Don’t “reserve” deck chairs with towels for hours
- Be punctual for excursions — the ship won’t wait
- Tip generously if not already included
- Follow dress codes for dining rooms
Pro tip: A little courtesy goes a long way toward making your cruise enjoyable for everyone.
Stay Healthy and Safe
Cruise ships are generally safe, but take precautions:
- Wash hands frequently (cruise ships are close quarters)
- Carry hand sanitizer
- Drink responsibly
- Be cautious when exploring ports on your own
- Follow all safety drills and announcements
Budget for Extra Costs
Beyond your base fare, expect expenses like:
- Tips/gratuities
- Onboard drinks
- Wi-Fi packages
- Specialty restaurants
- Spa treatments
- Souvenirs
Pro tip: Many cruise lines allow you to pre-pay gratuities and drink packages, which can simplify budgeting.
Real-Life Example
Mark and Jen booked their first cruise with Royal Caribbean. They were surprised by how much extras added up: drinks, Wi-Fi, and excursions cost nearly $800 more than their base fare. By their second cruise, they planned ahead by pre-purchasing a drink package and budgeting for excursions — which made their vacation far more stress-free.
10+ Inspirational Quotes About Cruising & Adventure
- “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” – Jacques Cousteau
- “To reach a port, we must sail — sail, not tie at anchor — sail, not drift.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
- “We must free ourselves of the hope that the sea will ever rest. We must learn to sail in high winds.” – Aristotle Onassis
- “The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears, or the sea.” – Isak Dinesen
- “At sea, I learned how little a person needs, not how much.” – Robin Lee Graham
- “Cruising is like a floating hotel that takes you to a new adventure every day.” – Unknown
- “You can never cross the ocean until you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.” – Christopher Columbus
- “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy to the soul.” – Wyland
- “Seas the day.” – Unknown
- “Life is better at sea.” – Unknown
Picture This
Picture yourself standing on the deck, ocean breeze in your hair, drink in hand, watching the horizon fade into the sunset. Your cabin is cozy, your excursions are booked, and you know exactly what to expect — no confusion, no stress. Just relaxation, excitement, and the thrill of exploring new places each day.
Your first cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming — with the right preparation, it will be unforgettable. Where will your ship take you?
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Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Results may vary. Always consult a travel professional before making booking decisions.
