The A-Z Of Cruising

Cruising is a unique way to travel and explore the world. With so many cruise lines and ships to choose from, planning a cruise can seem overwhelming. From choosing the right cabin to booking shore excursions, there are many things to consider when cruising. In this A-Z guide, we will cover the must-knows of cruising, from arrival time to travel documents. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, these tips will help you make the most of your cruise experience.

 

A - Arrival Time: Make sure you know what time you need to arrive at the port to board the ship.

 

B - Beverage Packages: Most cruise lines offer a variety of beverage packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

 

C - Cabin Selection: Choose your cabin wisely, taking into consideration factors such as location, size, and amenities.

 

D - Dining Options: Most cruise ships offer multiple dining options, including buffet, main dining room, specialty restaurants, and room service.

 

E - Excursions: Research and book excursions in advance to ensure availability and get the most out of your port visits.

 

F - Formal Nights: Some cruise lines have formal nights where passengers are expected to dress up. Check with your cruise line to see if this is the case.

 

G - Gratuity: Tips are typically added to your onboard account, but check with your cruise line to see what their policy is.

 

H - Health and Safety: Follow the ship's health and safety guidelines, including washing your hands regularly and practicing social distancing.

 

I - Itinerary: Research the ship's itinerary to know what ports you'll be visiting and what activities are available on the ship.

 

J - Join Activities: Participate in onboard activities to meet new people and make the most of your cruise experience.

 

K - Kids Programs: Many cruise lines offer kids programs and activities, so make sure to check what's available for your children.

 

L - Luggage: Check with your cruise line to see what their luggage policy is and what items are prohibited onboard.

 

M - Motion Sickness: If you're prone to motion sickness, consider bringing medication or trying natural remedies to ease symptoms.

 

N - Nightlife: Cruise ships have plenty of nightlife options, from shows and casinos to bars and nightclubs.

 

O - Onboard Purchases: Keep track of your onboard purchases to avoid overspending.

 

P - Ports of Call: Research the ports of call to know what to expect and what activities are available.

 

Q - Quiet Spaces: If you need some peace and quiet, look for quiet areas on the ship such as the library or adult-only pool.

 

R - Refund Policy: Check with your cruise line to see what their refund policy is in case you need to cancel.

 

S - Shore Excursions: Book shore excursions through the cruise line or a reputable tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

 

T - Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances.

 

U - Upgrades: Check with your cruise line to see what upgrade options are available, such as cabin upgrades or beverage packages.

 

V - Vaccinations: Check with your cruise line to see what their vaccination requirements are.

 

W - Weather: Be prepared for different weather conditions, especially if you're visiting multiple ports.

 

X - eXciting Activities: Look for exciting activities on the ship, such as zip-lining, rock climbing, or water slides.

 

Y - Your Travel Documents: Make sure you have all necessary travel documents, such as your passport and boarding pass.

 

Z - Zzz's: Get plenty of rest to make the most of your cruise experience.