Cruise travel is a great way to see the world without having to unpack and repack each time. It can enable you to see a lot of the world, find time to relax, and keep your kids entertained. However, there is an etiquette to cruise travel along with some potential pitfalls. So if this is your first time taking a cruise, check out our list of cruise travel do’s and don’ts
Do smile and make the effort to say thank you to the crew. Although you paid to be there, a successful cruise requires the hard work of numerous individuals, and often their pay is not particularly great, so treat the crew with courtesy and always say thank you.
Do wear sunscreen. This is so important! No matter where your cruise is happening, when you go on deck you will always need to wear sunscreen. It isn’t simply about the weather, because the glare off the water alone can lead to skin damage even if it isn’t a sunny day.
Don’t overindulge on alcohol or desserts. Yes, it is a holiday, and yes the spread of food available is often spectacular. But it can be easy to overeat or overdrink, which can become a problem if the ship hits rougher seas or if you are prone to sea sicknesses. Mix up the indulgences with healthy fruit and vegetables to ensure that you are able to enjoy your cruise to the fullest.
Do make the most of your time on the ship. That means taking advantage of all that a ship has to offer, including entertainment facilities, gyms, and restaurants.
Some cruises also offer the ability to gamble in real life casinos but if that isn’t an option, you can enjoy online pokies and other games from your own cabin. This raises the question of whether online gambling is legal on a cruise. The rules can be complicated and will depend on a number of factors, including the gambling rules of the country where the ship is registered, so make sure you check with the cruise company or the crew before you fire up your favorite online casino.
Do try to get a balcony cabin. Yes, it can be tempting to save some money by opting for an interior room or to go for a room with a window. But if you can afford it, getting the balcony room will make all the difference. Being able to enjoy a balcony can help to make your room feel double the size, and will offer a nice retreat from everything else going on during the cruise.
Don’t miss out on excursions. You take a cruise to see the world and not just the ocean! Take every opportunity for excursions and trips. This isn’t just about seeing the world and creating fantastic memories of your trip, it can also ensure that you get a chance to properly stretch your legs and break up the ship-board routine, leading to a more fulfilling travel experience.
