Do’s and Don’ts of Cruising Presented by: Jane Fencer

With the way the cruising industry is today there are many things the average person isn’t aware of. Here are a list of some Do’s and Don’ts when cruising and preparing to cruise DO: Make a copy of passport, medications, prescriptions, and any important papers. Put a copy with your carry on and a copy on your person.

Don’t assume that you don’t need a passport to cruise….many people think that they can use their birth certificates and an ID. Unless you are traveling to a US Territory (Guam, Puerto Rico, USVI or the Bahamas) you need a passport. Do be prepared to either prepay gratuities or pay upon boarding. Gratuities usually run about $10 per person per day. If you prepay you don’t have to worry about paying once on board.

Don’t assume that just because you purchased travel insurance that you are covered medically. Check with your medical coverage carrier and find out what is covered. You can purchase additional coverage for medical issues. Do always check with a travel agent. With all of the online sites where you can book your own, if you check with a travel agent they may be able to find you better pricing, on board credits, free upgrades, etc.

Do carry some cash, most cruise lines run a “cashless” system where everything is charged to your room key or sea pass and then to your credit card you will still need to tip if you are sitting in one of the bars. Don’t bring any beach towels. Most cruise lines provide them for a fee….usually $25 per day which is charged to your sea pass card but refunded once the towel is returned. Do bring sunscreen – just because you aren’t on the beach you are still on the water.

Do always notify the cruise line if you have any special dietary needs, they can prepare special food for you and then double check upon boarding. If you work with a travel agent make sure the agent is aware so they can prepare the cruise line. Do pack a multi plug cord. Most ships only have one or two outlets, if you have a multi plug cord you can take advantage and have several things plugged in at once rather than plugging and unplugging

Don’t assume all meals are included with the price of the cruise, there are specialty restaurants on all ships that charge a fee over and above the cruise rate. Do pack a few empty plastic bags (grocery) into your suitcase. That way when you are ready to come home you don’t have wet clothes or suits getting everything in your suitcase wet. Do be ready to pay for drinks as they usually are not included on the cost of the cruise. You can purchase a drink card upon boarding but that does not include alcohol drinks.

Don’t wait until the last minute to book. The earlier the better. If you wait until the last minute hoping to catch a special rate you may lose out because the cabin category has sold out so you will end up paying higher than you wanted. If you work with a travel agent they usually keep an eye on the price and if it goes down they work it with the cruise line to get you that price.

Don’t try to sneak anything on board like water, liquor, etc. It will be confiscated when you go through the security screen at the port. Do have a set of walkee talkees if you are traveling with children. Cell phones don’t work on the open seas and they are a good way to keep in touch. Do purchase excursions as soon as you book as a lot of time they are full upon boarding. Or check with your travel agent and they may know of a local company that specializes in shore excursions and can get them for you.

If you book an outside cabin be sure that it isn’t obstructed by a lifeboat. Find out as much as your cabin ahead of time….location, location, location. Do NOT smoke in your cabin or balcony if the ship does not allow it. They will fine you heavy. All ships have smoking areas for smokers to use. Don’t wait until you are ready to leave to check the balance on your ship account, do it the day prior to go over any discrepancies.

Do check to see how many “formal” nights are on your cruise. Dining in the main dining room is not required as there are a number of other areas to eat. A tip for this would be to take 1 or 2 pairs of dress shoes and do your wardrobe around those rather than taking 4-5 and cramming your luggage. You won’t need them. Do make any spa/salon appointments as soon as you board as they fill up quickly. Do pack a nightlight especially if you have an inside cabin as they have no windows.

Don’t waste your money on a suite or balcony if it is a short cruise unless you will take advantage. You will basically only use your cabin for sleeping so you save there and use the money elsewhere. Don’t assume that all cruise lines are the same as they are NOT. Each ship has their own personality. Do try to get mid-ship if you have motion sickness, this area of the ship is less prone to rocking but with the way ships are built today most do not rock unless in horrible weather.

Do pack a small purse or waist pouch. This will discourage pick pockets when off ship and only take what you essentially need. Do leave room in your suitcase for souviners, etc. Check the weight prior to leaving or take another empty bag that can be used. Do be ready to have fun once you board. There is so much to see and do on your cruise that you will immediately feel overwhelmed. Take your time and enjoy it!