Discovering the world by sea has many advantages, from being able to explore multiple destinations in one holiday to having restaurants and entertainment facilities close at hand. Before you depart on your first cruise, follow this guide to ensure you’re prepared for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
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Choosing your cruise
Cruises vary in length and style, and choosing the right type for you is crucial to your enjoyment. Consider how long you would like to be away, your preferred balance of time at sea and on land and the facilities you would like on the ship.
There’s a wide choice of cruises from Southampton, the UK’s number one port, covering a range of styles and destinations. You can sail directly between the US or the Canary Islands, location-hop along the Mediterranean or head north to Scandinavia.
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Packing tips and tricks
While cruise operators tend to have a generous luggage allowance, packing light is still advisable. Space in your cabin is limited so you don’t want to clutter it up with too many bags. Major providers will offer laundry services so you can re-wear pieces throughout the trip.
Check the climate of your chosen destinations and pack appropriate essentials. For hot-weather countries, you’ll need sun protection including high-SPF sunscreen, wrap-around sunglasses and a hat, while a thick waterproof coat, gloves and a scarf are vital for cold climes.
Some items will be prohibited on your cruise ship, so always check on the company website ahead of packing. Commonly banned or restricted items include sharp objects such as scissors, alcohol, flammable liquids and heat-generating products – usually excepting curling irons and hair straighteners.
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Preparing to embark
Arrive well ahead of time on embarkation day to ensure you’re safely on board before the moment of departure. Like flights, cruise ships operate on a strict schedule and cannot wait for late passengers. You’ll need all necessary documents to hand and should be prepared for a thorough security check.
Once on board, take time to familiarise yourself with the safety features and the ship’s layout. Depending on the size of the vessel, there will be several accommodation areas and dining spaces in addition to entertainment venues and facilities.
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Onboard etiquette
There are many unwritten rules about life onboard which can take newcomers to cruises by surprise! Get ahead of the game by revising the expected etiquette ahead of time.
Firstly, always look out for and respect quiet areas, and bear in mind that these may be restricted for children. You must also observe the dress code for the dining rooms: this can differ widely between the venues, ranging from smart-casual to black tie.
Check the tipping guidelines for your cruise before you set off and be prepared with cash. You don’t have to tip because service charges are often included in your package price, but it can go a long way towards getting you an extra-special experience.
