Prepare for a cruise like a pro with helpful embarkation tips from the CruiseExperts
Preparing for a cruise vacation is an exciting event whether you are a first-time cruiser or a longtime enthusiast. Your mind is most likely filled with thrilling thoughts of relaxing on a tropical beach, taking in Broadway-style shows, catching up on the latest novel while sitting at the pool or just spending time with family on a luxury ship. Because cruise vacations are typically jam-packed with so many amazing things to do each day, it is helpful to prepare for a cruise before you actually embark. Check out our cruise embarkation tips before you set sail!
Being mindful of the following cruise embarkation tips can help you save time (and possibly money). By taking care of certain trip necessities beforehand, you can make the first day of your trip relaxing and stress-free rather than hurried and overwhelming. If you are counting the days to your upcoming adventure, consider the following as you prepare for your cruise expedition:
- Handle your check-in online: Similar to many airlines these days, did you know you can check in and handle many details of your cruise online before your actual sail date? Create an account with your selected cruise line and finalize items such as filing your onboard credit card (for incidentals and in-room purchases), adding emergency contacts, printing out your checked luggage tags, and making reservations beforehand for things such as spa services and popular shore excursions. Can you do all of these things onboard? Of course, however, they could potentially eat up a large portion of your first day at sea. Complete some of them before your trip begins to make the most of your time at sea!
- Pack your carryon carefully: As you prepare for a cruise, you will find that having a carry-on bag and checked luggage is the smartest travel choice. Your checked bags will be taken from you as your trip begins, and during the first day at sea, will be delivered to your room. Depending on the amount of passengers and size of your ship, your checked bags could potentially be delivered to your room late in the afternoon or evening. This is why it is crucial to have a comfortable and preferable light carry-on bag filled with necessities such as your passport, medication, swimsuit, changes of clothes, and travel documents.
- When printing out your luggage tags before your trip, be sure to only place these tags on bags that you will not need immediately. Do not place them on your purse or carry-on.
- Keep some cash handy: You will most likely notice during your cruise that crew members are some of the hardest workers out there. Typically, your cabin crew and dining crew are tipped at the end of your trip via cash or charge on your checkout bill. It is always wise to keep some case handy to tip luggage handlers at your embarkation dock and for any other crew members who go above and beyond and deserve an extra tip. ATMs on board can have a hefty withdrawal fee, so consider keeping some cash on hand and using the safe located in your cabin.
- Be aware of permitted items while packing: While it may be tempting to stock up on drinks and snacks, pack them in your checked baggage and save money while onboard, be sure to visit your cruise line’s website to see what is permitted. Even though most cruise lines aren’t as limiting as airlines are, each ship has specific rules about what can and cannot be brought onboard.
Other areas to consider as you prepare for your cruise is to have emergency contacts and numbers handy, create a budget while at sea (as it is easy to overspend with so many services and excursions available), and decide beforehand if purchasing add-ons such as in-room WiFi and spa services is a better option. Sometimes you can save money by booking these items before your embarkation. If staying connected to your friends, family and/or business is crucial while at sea, speak with your cruise line before your sail date about internet packages.
While it may seem like there is a lot to do before your cruise adventure, just remember you are about to embark on a relaxing, exciting and memorable vacation! Almost everything you can possibly need is aboard your ship and a variety of thrilling activities and excursions await.
To find out more cruise embarkation tips or discover an upcoming sailing that may be perfect for you, call CruiseExperts.com today at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784). Don’t forget to like us on Facebook and join our InnerCircle for exclusive offers and cruise news you can use! Also, check out our new Resource Center, where you can receive expert knowledge from us before your next cruise or cruise tour!
