Embarking on a cruise can seem like a perfect getaway, but one misstep could spoil the entire experience.
Travelers must adhere to numerous guidelines while on cruise ships, and there are certain behaviors that fellow passengers would prefer you avoid.
For instance, a woman described how some guest habits disgust her, and Matt Hochberg, a Royal Caribbean enthusiast and member of their Pinnacle Club, has much to share about cruise life.
Hochberg has even created the Royal Caribbean Blog and a YouTube channel to pass on his insights and suggestions to others.
But what about the common errors people make?
Soon, you’ll discover what they are.
There’s nothing more disappointing than starting your anticipated cruise only to make a mistake that disrupts everything.
Fortunately, Alley Kerr, a performer with experience on over 100 cruise ships, offers advice on what to avoid to keep your voyage enjoyable.
She noted that the first day onboard is typically hectic, but with proper planning, you can enjoy yourself much more.
“That’s the day that everybody is trying to book their shore excursions, trying to get their internet sorted, trying to book restaurants and any extra add-ons,” she told the Independent.
While others are rushing and disorganized, you can be among the small percentage that remains composed.
You could be the relaxed and prepared traveler who has arranged your excursions ahead of time.
“…if you can avoid waiting for embarkation day and get it done in advance, your life is going to be so much easier,” she said.
Failing to plan sets you up for unexpected issues that can derail your trip.
Ensure you’re aware of the schedule so you’re not competing with crowds or missing out.
“People who have never cruised before often get on the ship and then suddenly at the end of the day, they’re like, ‘Oh, everything’s sold out,’” she told the publication.
“I feel that this is one of the worst things that could happen, because you’ve missed out. There’s limited availability for a lot of things,” she added.
Many first-time cruisers mistakenly wait until boarding to plan their vacation.
This advice is so accurate that even Cruise Critic suggests planning well in advance, recommending arrival ‘a day or two before your cruise’.
According to the Express, this approach ‘not only enhances the overall experience with a mini-land vacation, but it also eliminates the stressful race against time – and the risk of missing the ship’.
The advice elaborates: “Long flight times, customs, visas and potential baggage delays are just a few reasons to add an extra travel day when flying overseas for a cruise. More flights and security checks create more opportunities for things to go wrong. Plus, if you’re already traveling across the globe, why not take the opportunity to explore the local culture before your cruise begins?
“Even a morning flight can leave you waiting in long lines at the cruise terminal, putting you far behind others who arrived earlier.
“Getting to the ship early – something that’s harder to guarantee with a flight – lets you make the most of your first day onboard. You’ll have time to explore the ship, drop off your bags, relax by the pool, grab a bite to eat and fully settle into vacation mode.”
Are you prepared for your next cruise?