This publication is in line with our mission at “Ocean Friends” Foundation to promote responsible and sustainable adventures in a secure and healthy form of tourism that brings positive change for travellers, locals, and destinations.
Cruising is a remarkable way to observe the world, to see destinations you already visited from a different perspective and experience new ones each day. Floating vacations are more exciting than they have never been. Adventure or themed cruises, spectacular mega-ships or river ships with a more intimate atmosphere – there is something for everyone.
If you are thinking of embarking on this modern life on an ocean wave for the first time, we have some tips for a pleasant sea time.
Determine a Cruise Destination
Choose your destination wisely. You will hardly want to sail on the Amazon River in June when there is an invasion of mosquitoes or to risk “enjoying” the Caribbean in August when there is the hurricane season. However, the chance of getting caught in the eye of a storm is minimal. Booking a cruise in the Mediterranean during the wave season, for example, has its advantages – avoid high prices and massive visits.
There are destinations literally all over the world. Whether you are a connoisseur of the beauty of the captivating Mediterranean or a Scandinavian lover and dream of enjoying the delightful charm of the Norwegian fjords and the unearthly beauty of Denmark; you only have a few days off to go through Italy, Spain and France or you have decided to indulge in a well-deserved long holiday, starting from Italy and reaching all the way to the shores of Rio de Janeiro; to feel the spirit of New Zealand and Australia or to enter the mystical extravaganza of Africa; to feel the spirit of New Zealand and Australia or to enter the mystical extravaganza of Africa; the best part is that no matter how many times you go, there is always something new to see and the boat trip will leave unforgettable memories.
Which Cruise Line?
Today there is a huge variety of ships that will impress you with many luxuries and extras. Each cruise line offers a different style and approach to travel. The choice depends entirely on your personal preferences, lifestyle, interests and budget.
Most cruise lines appeal to families with children, as well as to couples in love and larger friendly companies. Generally, in addition to the destination, you need to decide for yourself whether you are looking for entertainment for your children or you want to indulge in a wellness holiday, whether you want to immerse yourself in the culture of the places you visit or spend some time relaxing and soaking up the sun.
There are four main market segments in the cruise industry – economy (budget), standard, first-class, luxury. Here we exclude river cruises because they offer a different kind of experience than traditional cruise ships. However, you should be aware that there is no formal international categorization system. What is once defined as a premium or luxury cruise product in America and Western Europe falls into the standard segment. The four main segments we mentioned here are for general orientation.
Choosing a Cabin
Delightful views, entertainment, fun, social contacts and coastal excursions. All this requires recharging the batteries and sound sleep. That is why it is essential to consider the choice of cabin carefully.
Before we introduce you to the main types of cabins, it is good to know that nowadays most cabins include TV and telephone, toiletries, bath and pool towels, mini bar and others.
Regardless of the cruise operator and the ship, there are four main types of cabins – inside, outside, with balcony and suite. Of course, their variations are many and diverse. Some ships do not have cabins with balconies, and those without apartments. There are ships that are so large that they are divided into whole neighbourhoods. On such ships, you can find various cabin categories, including balconies with sea views and those with views of the interior of the ship; everything from a small apartment with a balcony to a huge mansard.
Inside Cabins
That usually is the most budget-friendly solution in choosing a cabin, but this does not necessarily mean that you will not feel good during the trip. Although it is located in the ship’s interior and has no windows, the cabin has all the amenities. If you’re on a tight budget or are travelling alone or with friends and do not think to spend a lot of time in the cabin – this is the ideal option for you.
A little trick from us: there is no natural light in the inside cabins. Turn on the TV on the live channel from the board and mute. This is how you will have a night light in the room, and you will know when it will dawn.
Outside Cabins
Outside cabins usually have a higher price, but if you are not interested in spending a lot of time there, you can skip this and save money with an indoor cabin. They offer views of the ocean but don’t think that you will enjoy the fresh air and ocean sounds. The windows don’t open, and even could be obstructed by lifeboats and other ship fixtures.
Balcony cabins
The ocean breeze and stunning seascapes – these are the biggest advantages of balcony staterooms. Of course, the price is higher, but in addition to views and better ventilation, you usually get more spacious rooms and some extra amenities.
Suites
Cruise suites offer not only luxury but also exclusive service. These are the most luxurious cabins you can find on a cruise ship. Spacious spaces, a balcony, luxurious furnishings and access to exclusive areas are among the added value you will get for the high price you will pay.
There is a separate type of cabin called guaranteed. With them, the traveller does not know exactly where the cabin is and can not choose it. The cruise company determines its location, but that also has its advantages. In most cases, these cabins are cheaper in price and most importantly – it is possible to get a free upgrade, i.e. transfer to a higher category at the expense of the ship operator.
Category SPA staterooms (offered by some cruise lines) are often an alternative solution for those who have decided to indulge in one or another procedure. The price of a cabin is higher, but the difference you will pay will be much less than what you would spend in the spa. The price includes free use of the thermal area in the spa.
You have already chosen a cruise. What next?
Flight reservation
Unless you are lucky enough to live on the shores of the Mediterranean, you will need to spend some of your time to organize your trip to the starting point of the cruise. Book your flight as early as possible to get a good price. Be careful with the landing and departure times – it is best to fly one day before the start of your cruise. This will prevent stress from possible flight delays or loss of luggage. The same advice applies equally to your return – do not book a flight if you do not have at least six hours between mooring the ship and check-in for your return flight.
Documentation kit
In no case, do not forget your passport! Check its validity, because cruise operators require the passport to be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip.
In addition to the passport, take your health certificates in case of chronic diseases, as well as specific visas or permits that are required in certain destinations.
It is a good idea to print a copy of all these documents in case of trouble such as theft or loss.
Also, prepare the cruise ticket and the credit card that you may need to be blocked a certain amount as a guarantee deposit to take advantage of all the services of the ship without any problems.
Luggage
Think carefully about what you will take with you. Cruise companies do not have an official limit on the number of suitcases or their weight, but if you travel by plane to the port of departure, you will have to comply with the airline’s restrictions that will transport you. That usually means – 20 to 23 kilograms of checked baggage per person and ten kilograms of hand luggage.
Do not carry alcohol in your luggage! This is not desirable, but if you still want to take a whiskey bottle, put it in a large suitcase, not in hand luggage. For some cruise operators, this will not be a problem, but you will need to consume alcohol in your cabin. If you are with a friendly company that emphasizes alcohol, it is best to prepaid alcohol packages. It’s easier, more convenient and far more diverse.
To secure your baggage, stick your luggage tape, label it and lock your suitcase. Since you will be without a suitcase for a few hours on the day of the ship’s departure, it would be a good idea to put a pair of spare clothes in your hand luggage, possibly a swimsuit and sunscreen, common medicines, a camera, a phone charger and whatever else you deem necessary for your first hours on the ship.
Clothing
If you are travelling on a cruise for the first time, this will be one of your main concerns. Various cruise operators have different requirements for evening wear. Check them in advance, because for some it is enough just to be dressed in something other than a tank top and flip-flops, others are a little stricter, others require you to wear formal clothes. Moreover, on board most cruise operators, in addition to the traditional official gala evening (the so-called captain’s night), themed evenings are often held – an evening in white, an evening in the colours of the flag of the country, etc. Also comply with the season and weather forecast, as well as clothing standards in the different countries you visit. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and outerwear.
Coastal Excursions
The cruise trip allows you to try different places and destinations. You should keep in mind that you usually have no more than one day at each port. You can take advantage of a coastal excursion organized by the cruise operator itself, book an excursion by a local tour operator or organize your own visits and walks.
We advise you to select them and book in advance. Your cruise consultant will help you with guidance and useful information. If you leave all the coastal excursions for booking directly on the ship, the price will not change, but there is a certain probability that the places for the most desired and popular excursions will be out-of-print before you book. If you decide not to use any of the many excursions offered by the cruise operator, research in advance what you can see interestingly in each of the points along the route, so you can make the most of the time spent there.
There often have priority for disembarkation from people who have excursions arranged with the operator itself, but this is not such a problem unless the arrival is made in the port, but at a certain distance at sea and you have to take boats to the mainland.
Health Advice
There is a medical team onboard each ship that can take care of you in case of need. As the medical services are not included in the cruise price, we advise you to take out medical insurance before your departure, which will cover your costs if you have to use a doctor’s assistance on board. It is a good idea to put a first aid kit in your luggage with the most common medicines for pain, inflammation and fever. These are often sold in the on-board store, but they are at much higher prices than if you buy them in advance.
Check the destinations you plan to visit to see if you need more vaccinations. For example, some countries in Africa and South America may require proof of yellow fever vaccination. If you are travelling to an area with Zika, be sure to follow the CDC’s recommendations to stay healthy and safe.
During your coastal excursions, observe the basic food and water precautions: eat only food cooked and served hot, drink only beverages from sealed bottles, avoid ice and eat fresh products only if you have washed them with clean water, and peeled them by yourself.
Seasickness is a common complaint among cruise passengers. Don’t worry about it in advance – it probably won’t happen to you. If this still happens, go to the reception, the staff there will do one of the following – give you a pill, suggest you get on one of the outdoor decks and stare at the horizon, or offer you to eat green apples or ginger or crackers. All this helps.
If you generally have problems with the vestibular system, take preventive measures before feeling the first symptoms and do not hesitate to use other treatments (sometimes a little whiskey helps).
Final tips
- A 5-star restaurant is included in the price of your trip with breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a full day buffet. Ordering from a menu without prices is considered the most normal thing in the restaurant because everything is included in the price and your cruise ticket.
- Unless you have booked an All-Inclusive cruise, you should keep in mind that drinks in bars and restaurants will be charged extra. For most cruise operators, carbonated drinks are not included in the price, but on the other hand, iced tea usually is included.
- Many tourists describe the presence of contacts in the cabin as “insufficient”. You can put a power strip on board, as long as your cruise company allows it. Keep in mind that there are often “hidden” contacts behind the TV or under the bed.
- Follow promotions. Many operators offer a different bonus for early bookings – a discount on the price, board credit, free Internet or a package of special restaurants, a package of all-inclusive drinks.
Conclusion
Whichever direction, cruise line or cabin you choose, you will surely be able to give your senses a well-deserved inspiration in the symphony of sea breeze and soothing, gentle excitement.
Sources:
- Crusit – 15 things you need to know before you go on a cruise.
- wwwnc.cdc.gov – Cruise Ship Travel.
- ravelcodex.com – The Beginner’s Guide to Cruises.
- eatsleepcruise.com – Beginner’s Guide to Planning a Cruise.
