Ultimate Cruise Hacks I Wish I Knew Before My First Adventure

Caroline Thomas
Aug 22
4 min read

Planning your first cruise can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. When I set sail on my first adventure, I wish I had known the insider tips that could make my experience smoother. After completing my journey, I gathered essential hacks that would have taken my trip to the next level. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, these tips will help you enjoy every part of your cruise.

What to Bring

Packing smart is key to enjoying your cruise. Here are some must-have items to ensure a comfortable trip:

Comfortable Clothing: Bring layers to adapt to different temperatures between the ship and shore. Include swimwear, casual outfits for daytime activities, and a couple of nice outfits for formal dinners.
Medications and First Aid Kit: Don’t forget your personal medications, and consider adding a small first aid kit with basic supplies. For seasickness, medications like Dramamine can make a big difference.
Power Strip: Because cabins often have limited outlets, a power strip allows you to charge your devices all at once without frustration.
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated while cruising is important, especially in warmer destinations. Bringing your own bottle can help you save an average of $50 or more on bottled water during your trip.
Snorkeling Gear: If snorkeling is on your agenda, bring your own gear to avoid rental fees, which can cost $30 or more per day.

Where to Stay

Your choice of cabin can greatly affect your cruise experience. Consider these tips:

Midship Cabins: Opt for a midship cabin. These rooms are typically more stable and can help reduce motion sickness.
Balcony vs. Inside Cabins: If budget allows, choose a balcony cabin for beautiful views and a personal outdoor space. Inside cabins can save you around 20-30% if you’re looking to cut costs.
Consider Upgrades: Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on upgrades. Many cruise lines offer discounts on upgraded cabins during boarding.

How to Get Upgrades

Here are some tactics to enhance your cruise experience with upgrades:

Loyalty Programs: Sign up for the cruise line’s loyalty program before your cruise. Members often get exclusive offers and chances for complimentary upgrades.
Travel During Off-Peak Times: Traveling during less popular seasons can increase your odds of securing an upgrade, as ships are less crowded.
Ask Politely: When you check in, kindly inquire about any available upgrades. A friendly approach can yield surprising results.

When to Book Dining

Dining can become a memorable part of your cruise. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Pre-Book Specialty Restaurants: If your cruise allows it, reserve specialty dining options before you board. These fill up quickly, and dining at these restaurants can elevate your experience with unique dishes.
Flexible Dining Times: If your cruise provides flexible dining, aim to dine early or late to avoid crowds and long waits.
Check for Theme Nights: Some cruise lines host themed dining nights, like Italian or Caribbean. Making reservations early allows you to participate in these fun culinary events.

A family dining together on a cruise ship

When to Book Onboard Child Services

If traveling with kids, here’s how to keep them entertained:

Pre-Register for Kids’ Clubs: Many cruise lines let you register children for kids’ clubs online. This guarantees them participation in activities tailored to their age group.
Book Child Services Early: If you need babysitting or child services, book these as soon as you board, as these spots can fill up quickly and early bookings can double your chances of availability.

Ways to Ensure You Don’t Fall Ill

Staying healthy during your cruise is vital. Here are practical tips:

Wash Your Hands Frequently: Good hygiene is crucial. Make it a habit to use hand sanitizer and wash your hands before meals to reduce illness risk.
Stay Hydrated: Aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily, especially in warmer climates. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and discomfort.
Avoid Overindulging: With so much delicious food readily available, practice moderation by enjoying smaller portions to feel your best throughout your trip.

Ways to Get Onboard Credit

Having onboard credit enhances your cruise experience. Here’s how to earn some:

Book Through a Travel Agent: Many travel agents provide onboard credit as part of their booking services. It’s worth inquiring about potential offers.
Look for Promotions: Check for special offers from cruise lines. Many run promotions that grant onboard credit for bookings made within specific periods.
Credit Card Rewards: Some credit cards offer points redeemable for onboard credit. Check with your card issuer to explore your options.

How Best to Book Excursions

Excursions can be one of the highlights of your cruise. Here's how to ensure you secure great options:

Research Ahead of Time: Explore the excursions available at each port before your cruise. Knowing your priorities helps you make informed decisions.
Book Early: Many popular excursions sell out, so if there is something you really want to do, reserve it as soon as you can.
Consider Independent Tours: Often, independent operators provide similar excursions for lower prices. Just ensure they have good reviews to avoid any surprises.

Additional Cruise Hacks

A few more tips can enhance your overall experience:

Pack a Small Bag for Shore Excursions: Bring a lightweight backpack to carry essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and a camera.
Use the Cruise App: Download the cruise line’s app before your trip. These apps offer real-time updates on activities, making it easy to stay informed.
Attend the Welcome Aboard Show: This is a great opportunity to learn about the ship and its facilities. Plus, you might pick up insider tips from the crew, making it easier to navigate your cruise.

Embrace Your First Cruise Adventure

Your first cruise is not just a journey; it’s an adventure filled with incredible new experiences. By using these hacks, you can avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time at sea. From essential packing tips to making the best dining selections, these insights provide a roadmap to an unforgettable cruise. So get ready, set sail, and enjoy every moment of your much-deserved adventure!