What to Do (And What to Avoid) Before a Cruise

A cruise vacation is an incredible escape from the daily grind, offering relaxation, adventure, and the chance to explore new places. But before you set sail, there are a few important things to do and some pitfalls to avoid to ensure your trip is smooth sailing.

Here is your no-nonsense guide to help you prepare for the best cruise experience possible.

(Do) Book Excursions Early

Booking your excursions before boarding the ship can save you a lot of stress. Popular tours, like glacier hikes or cooking classes, tend to sell out quickly. By securing your spot in advance, you can ensure you don’t miss out on those must-do activities.

Plus, many cruise lines offer discounts for pre-booking, making it a smart choice for both convenience and savings.

In addition, booking early means you will have more time to research the best excursions for your trip. You can read reviews, check availability, and pick the excursions that truly excite you.

Reserve Specialty Dining

One of the highlights of a cruise is the variety of dining options available, especially at specialty restaurants. These places tend to fill up fast, especially on busy sailings. So, it is smart to reserve your spot well in advance.

Matt / Pexels / Before you set sail, make sure to receive specialty dining early on!

By reserving ahead, you also get the best options. Many ships offer premium dining experiences that are only available by reservation, meaning you could miss out if you wait.

Check Banned Items

Each cruise line has a list of prohibited items, and ignoring this can lead to unnecessary hassle or even confiscation. Common banned items include drones, irons, and surge protectors.

It is essential to check your cruise line’s guidelines before packing to avoid the frustration of getting to the ship and realizing you have packed something that is not allowed.

Buy Drink Packages Pre-Cruise

Cruise drink packages are a great way to enjoy unlimited beverages without the hefty onboard prices. Purchasing a drink package before you set sail can often be cheaper than buying it onboard.

Plus, it eliminates the hassle of worrying about costs once you’re aboard the ship. You can relax and sip your favorite cocktail without constantly checking the bill.

Fly in a Day Early

Cruise itineraries are tightly scheduled, and delays can throw off your entire trip. If you are flying in on the same day your cruise departs, you run the risk of missing the ship due to flight delays or cancellations.

Arriving a day early gives you peace of mind, ensuring you’re not rushing through the airport or stressing about last-minute hiccups.

Bruno / Unsplash / Unless you are going on a luxury or ultra-formal cruise, there is no need to load up your suitcase with tuxedos or fancy gowns.

Don’t Pre-book Spa Treatments

While it may seem tempting to book spa treatments ahead of time, this is one area where you might want to wait. Many cruise lines offer discounts for spa services on port days, and you will have more flexibility if you book onboard.

This way, you can take advantage of these savings or even score an unexpected deal during your cruise.

Don’t Overpack Formalwear

Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to mean overpacking. Many modern cruise lines have relaxed dress codes, and you’ll likely find that a few nice outfits are all you need.

Instead, pack versatile clothing that can be dressed up or down. A couple of dressy outfits for formal nights or upscale dinners will usually do the trick.

Don’t Overplan Your Schedule

While it is tempting to cram your itinerary with as many activities as possible, you will want to leave room for spontaneity. Some of the best moments on a cruise come from the unexpected.

Don’t feel pressured to fill every waking moment with pre-booked activities.