(A smooth-sailing guide for new cruisers)

Stepping onto a cruise ship for the first time is exhilarating—ocean views, unlimited food, new destinations every day. But the cruising world has its quirks, and knowing them ahead of time can make the difference between a stressful trip and a perfect vacation.

Here are the 10 things every first-time cruiser must know before boarding.

1️⃣ Gratuities Are NOT Included in Most Cruise Fares

💳 Expect to pay an additional $14–$20 per person, per day for gratuities/service charges.These cover the hardworking crew who clean your cabin, serve your meals, and work behind the scenes.

✔ You can prepay them✔ Or have them added to your onboard account. Just don’t be surprised—they’re not optional. Often times you will tip your room steward and wait staff additionally based on their service.

2️⃣ Expect Heavy Upselling—Before & During Your Cruise

Cruise lines are masters at upselling. From the moment you book, you’ll receive emails and app notifications encouraging you to buy: each package is an additional cost, and based on per person. Some packages (such as the drink packages) REQUIRE each person in the cabin to get a package, regardless of their desire.

• Drink packages

• Wi-Fi bundles

• Specialty dining

• Spa treatments

• Photo packages

• Shore excursions

📅 For months before sailing, the sales pressure builds. Once onboard, the upsell continues with:

• Daily announcements

• Shop promotions

• Upgrade offers

• Specialty dining pitches

• “Limited-time” packages

For some, it’s fun. For others, overwhelming.Set a budget early to avoid impulse purchases.

3️⃣ Most Ports Are Highly Commercialized

Be prepared: many cruise ports are built around tourism, not local culture.

Expect:

🛍 Massive duty-free stores📿 Jewelry shops on every corner👕 Souvenir T-shirt stands📸 Tour operators pressed up against the port gates

If you want a more authentic experience, consider an excursion that goes beyond the port shopping village.

4️⃣ Specialty Restaurants Cost Extra—but They’re Worth It

Ships have amazing included dining options, but the best cuisine is often in specialty restaurants.

🍣 Sushi🥩 Steakhouses🍝 Italian🥐 French bistros

These require reservations—and can sell out quickly—so book early.

5️⃣ Book Excursions Early—The Good Ones Go FAST

Whether ziplining in Honduras, wine tasting in Europe, or snorkeling in Cozumel, excursions fill up quickly.

✔ Book online far before sailing✔ Don’t wait until embarkation day✔ Sea day activities fill even faster. Early planners get the best experiences.

6️⃣ Cruise Line Excursions Are Pricier—but the Ship Waits for You

Booking directly with the cruise line may cost more, but there’s a huge advantage:

🚢 If the official excursion runs late, the ship will NOT leave without you.

That peace of mind alone can be worth the extra cost.

7️⃣ Exploring On Your Own Can Be Cheaper—but Risky

If you book your own tour or explore independently:

⛔ The ship does not wait⛔ You’re responsible for catching up⛔ You may need a taxi, ferry, or even a flight to the next port

Always keep track of ship time, not local time—your phone may switch automatically.

8️⃣ Know When You Need to Carry Your Passport

Depending on the country:

🛂 Some ports require you to carry your passport🛂 Others advise keeping it in your cabin safe🛂 Some allow only a government-issued ID

Your cruise app or daily newsletter will tell you what’s required each day.

9️⃣ Cruise Lines Can Change or Cancel Ports at Any Time

It’s buried in the fine print, but it’s important:

⚠️ Cruise lines can change or cancel any port with little or no compensation.

Reasons include:

🌧 Weather⚓ Port congestion🚨 Safety concerns🔧 Mechanical issues

You agree to this legally when you book—called the cruise contract—so always expect potential changes.

🔟 Embarkation & Disembarkation Days are Busy—Pack a Day Bag

Your luggage may not arrive for several hours.Pack a carry-on with:

• Medications

• Swimwear

• Sunscreen

• Phone chargers

• Travel documents

• A change of clothes

This helps you start your vacation immediately without waiting for your suitcase.

✳️ Disembarkation Tips

When it’s time to leave the ship, you have two main options:

1. Self-Assist Disembarkation (Carry Off Your Own Luggage)

You take all your bags with you and walk off the ship independently.

✔ Fastest way off✔ Ideal for early flights✔ No waiting for luggage distribution

But: you must be able to carry everything yourself down hallways, ramps, and sometimes stairs.

2. Assisted Disembarkation (Crew Handles Your Luggage)

If you prefer not to carry your bags:

• You leave your luggage outside your cabin the night before

• Crew collects it

• Bags will be waiting in the terminal the next morning

⏱ You will be assigned a specific group and time to leave the ship.This is ideal for guests who need extra time or have lots of luggage.

Other Disembarkation Notes

• Breakfast is usually served early.

• Elevators can get extremely crowded—plan ahead.

• Keep your passport, cruise card, and customs forms easily accessible.

• If you need wheelchair or mobility assistance, request it early in your cruise; spots fill quickly.

• If you are carrying your bags, take them with you to breakfast. Do not leave them in your cabin, your cabin steward may give you the side eye when you return to get them.

🌴 Final Thoughts: Cruise Smart, Cruise Prepared

Cruising is one of the most enjoyable ways to travel, combining relaxation, adventure, and convenience. By understanding gratuities, upsells, port commercialization, passport rules, and the risks of late returns, you’ll be prepared for anything your first cruise throws at you.

With the right expectations—and a little planning—your first cruise will be smooth sailing from start to finish.