Cruising for the first time can be intimidating and overwhelming. With so many options and decisions to be made, the opportunity for buyer's remorse is real and scary.

As a professional travel advisor, my job is to come along side you and help to take away this stress. With this is mind, here are 15 rookie mistakes that first-time cruisers often make:

1. Not Researching the Cruise Line and Ship

  • Different cruise lines and ships cater to various demographics and interests. Choose one that aligns with your vacation style, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, luxury, or adventure. Click here for more information.

2. Booking the Wrong Cabin

  • Cabins vary greatly in terms of location, size, and amenities. Think about whether you prefer a window, balcony, or proximity to specific parts of the ship. If you’re prone to seasickness, choose a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck. More info on choosing the perfect cabin for you.

3. Overpacking

  • Cabins have limited storage space. Pack light with versatile clothing and remember most cruise lines offer laundry services. What not to pack...

4. Skipping Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance can cover unexpected events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Without it, you could face significant out-of-pocket expenses. Why travel insurance...

5. Arriving on Embarkation Day

  • I never advise anyone to travel in the day of cruise departure. Instead, plan to arrive in your departure city at least a day before your cruise. This reduces the stress of potential travel delays and ensures you don’t miss the ship.

6. Not Budgeting for Onboard Expenses

7. Ignoring the Daily Schedule

  • Each day, the ship provides a schedule of activities, dining options, and events. Failing to review it could result in missing out on experiences or necessary reservations. Be sure you've downloaded the cruise line app and have the daily schedule at your fingertips!

8. Skipping Shore Excursion Planning

  • Shore excursions can sell out quickly, especially the most popular ones. Booking in advance helps ensure you don’t miss out on activities you’re excited about and often times results in lower prices.

9. Not Understanding Gratuities

  • Many cruise lines automatically charge gratuities to your account, but you can adjust these or tip extra if service exceeds expectations. Be aware of the tipping policies and know what's included and what's not.

10. Forgetting to Stay Hydrated and Use Sunscreen

  • The combination of sun exposure and salty air can dehydrate you quickly. Be sure to drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen regularly to avoid sunburn and dehydration.

11. Not Bringing Necessary Documentation

  • Make sure to bring all necessary travel documents, such as your passport, boarding passes and any required visas. Some ports of call may have specific entry requirements so be sure to pay attention to the information your cruise line gives you.

12. Failing to Attend the Muster Drill

  • The muster drill is a safety briefing required for all passengers. Skipping it is not only dangerous, but could result in penalties from the cruise line. You don't want to be "those people" called out over the PA system!

13. Not Researching Ports of Call

  • Each port has unique attractions and culture. Research in advance to make the most of your time ashore, whether it's through planned excursions or independent exploration.

14. Eating All Your Meals at the Buffet

  • Buffets are convenient, but the ship offers various dining experiences, including specialty restaurants and fine dining. Be sure to explore different dining options for a more rounded culinary experience. Main dining and specialty dining tips...

15. Not Securing Valuables

  • While cruises are generally safe, it's a;ways wise to secure your valuables in the cabin safe or carry them with you. Don't leave important items like passports, cash, or electronics unattended.

Well, there you have it. Avoiding these common pitfalls will go a long way in helping you have a smooth and enjoyable first cruise experience! Even better is utilizing my professional services to plan and book that first cruise. Click here to schedule your free consultation call.