best cruise line for beginners

Everything to Know Before Booking Your First Cruise

By Mark Ellwood and Ramsey Qubein

Approaching how to book a cruise for the first time has always been somewhat daunting, with a dizzying assortment of itineraries, companies, destinations, and ships to choose from. How can first-timers  book a cruise without going wrong? We asked three  Traveler -approved experts for their seasoned advice: Gene Sloan is cruise editor for  The Points Guy ; Jason Leppert is cruise editor for  TravelAge West ; Carolyn Spencer Brown is  Cruise Media’s chief content officer. All three are industry experts that have decades of experience across various types of cruises.

What’s the ideal cruise length for a first-timer?

A week or so is the  sweet spot for most first-time cruisers , which will offer three to six ports. Three-day sampler itineraries won’t allow you to explore more than one or two destinations, and you can’t decompress as thoroughly, either. Still, Leppert suggests a weekend trip could be enough for those that just want to try out cruising for the first time to see if you like it. 

While that’s  a good idea for some, Sloan also points out that cruise lines don’t always put their best ships on shorter runs. The ships on these itineraries can sometimes be older and have fewer of the bells and whistles that draw people to cruising in the first place. He says it is not exactly representative of the latest cruising has to offer, and the destinations on super-short cruises are not always the most unique offerings.

What’s the best way to book a cruise?

Many may wonder: Is it cheaper to book a cruise direct? Sure, you can  book a cruise online—but it’s a rookie mistake. Smart cruisers know the best place to book a cruise is with a  travel agent . Though agents’ roles have diminished in the mass-market travel biz, they remain crucial for cruising. Not only can specialists offer seasoned advice, but they can also wrangle deals and promos: Ask them about shipboard credit, which is the ocean equivalent of a gift card to spend onboard—$100 or so is a standard bonus. They may also have access to group rates, according to Sloan. Even if their prices are similar to those when booking direct, the volume of business agents do with cruise lines means you are more likely to score perks like a cabin upgrade or welcome bottle of Champagne when using one.

As the industry reinvents itself in the wake of the pandemic, it’s never been more important to have expert counsel, adds Spencer Brown. “At the end of the day, you’re going on this trip to relax, have fun, learn something, and get away from your everyday world. I want that support system.”

If something goes wrong, an agent can help rectify the situation faster than you may be able to if you go it alone. You won’t be paying more for their service, either. Most make their money via commissions from the cruise lines. Leppert calls it “the best of the best” advice to go with a travel advisor. 

What’s the best time to book a cruise?

If you're looking to leverage new cruise deals, the best way to  book a cruise is by starting early since prices continue to be robust. “There’s so much pent-up demand. People haven’t traveled for a year or more, so they’re spending more money on the trips they’re going on—upgrading to a nicer suite, perhaps,” says Spencer Brown. This could make it harder to secure the cabin you want on the sailing you want.

Leppert highlights  Wave Season (January through March) for booking a future cruise since this is when cruise lines typically announce their best deals although last-minute bargains always pop up. Like Spencer Brown, he says that demand is outpacing inventory so it is best to book as soon as possible.

Sloan agrees and says people  book cruises much further in advance than a hotel or flight, which means that inventory can get gobbled up quickly. Many cruise lines open up their reservation window as far as two years in advance, which means certain cabins can get snatched up. Don’t forget that many travelers are looking to use leftover credits they have from the pandemic, which further compounds the demand.

Most major cruise lines offer the equivalent of a price adjustment—if the cost of your cruise drops after you pay a deposit, but before the final payment, you’ll be protected, and refunded the difference. This means there is little penalty to reserving as early as possible.

What are the best types of cruises for first-timers?

Opt for a winter sun trip in the  Caribbean . It’s easy and affordable to reach the boarding port, and shuttling between the clusters of islands offers a compact, convenient way to experience a multitude of cultures. “Think of a cruise as a tapas menu,” says Spencer Brown—it allows you to sample destinations to which you might later return for a longer visit. Even handier, when on a Caribbean cruise almost every island accepts payment in dollars, so there’s no need to juggle currencies. The waters also are largely calm, keeping seasickness to a minimum.

River cruising is another smart first-time choice, adds Spencer Brown. “You can literally walk off the ship into town, go to a park or ride a bike, or just sit on the top deck breathing the air—it’s marvelous,” she says. 

Sloan offers another take saying that your travel budget should lead the way. If you are prepared to drop $1,000 a night on a cruise, start out on an upscale line with smaller ships like Silversea Cruises or Seabourn. These will give you a taste of cruising with fewer passengers, and often to smaller, less-frequented ports. 

If the budget leans more toward the $100 per-day price point, try one of the newer mega-ships from Norwegian Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean. These newer ships can have a bustling resort vibe that will keep you busy no matter what your cabin type.

Seasoned cruisers know that ship amenities are often less buys while at port.

Understanding cabin categories

There’s a dizzying array of options (and pricing) for staterooms, especially on larger ships. First-timers who simply want a place to crash often book the cheapest category, an interior cabin with no window or balcony. 

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If you fall for the trappings of a bargain-basement deal, that cheapie stateroom might be right across from the service area, with a door slamming shut 24/7 or underneath the kitchen, with heavy carts rolling at 6 a.m. Avoid cabins below frequently used passageways on the top decks where footsteps and the sound of deck chairs moving frequently can be annoying. Even higher category cabins can be one deck below the main deck so it is wise to ask about this when reserving.

There are several websites with exhaustive cruise deck plan maps that offer advice and user-generated feedback, almost like a sea-going counterpart to SeatGuru’s airline seat maps. These can be a lifesaver when choosing a cabin type.

The scoop on shore excursions

For a first-timer, these can be confusing. Details aren’t often added to an itinerary until six months or so before sail date; check back regularly, snap up a place on any excursions that are of interest, and book early—popular options can reach capacity long before sailing. 

Still, some travelers choose to go off-menu and arrange private excursions, using independent companies, which can often be cheaper than the line's options. Just keep in mind that when taking an independent excursion, the ship won’t wait for you if you’re late. Staying with the cruise line’s jaunts may be more expensive, but is a safer bet if you are not sure of a new destination.

Sloan says that it really depends where the ship is going. In some ports like Barcelona or Venice, it is easy to venture off on your own without an excursion. Others, however, may require longer drives or special access passes making excursions a safer bet.

Another consideration is to use port days to spend more time on the ship. Leppert notes that onboard amenities like pools, buffets and waterslides are less crowded when most people are ashore. If a particular destination doesn’t appeal to you (or perhaps you have been many times before), it’s ok to enjoy the ship instead.

What is a sea day?

Transits, when the ship is en route between ports, are known as sea days (like the term shore excursions, it's more  cruise lingo ); passengers, obviously, remain on board. Many newbies fret about wasting time at sea rather than exploring, but they’re often a fun chance to explore the ship itself, as well as decompress between ports. Some travelers actually  book cruises that have at least one or two sea days, especially if it’s a larger ship with loads of amenities like water parks, race car tracks, zip lining, and multiple shows. 

What's the best first cruise for a family?

The mega ships are always primed to be the best first choice for families, whether Norwegian’s 4,200-passenger  Escape or the newest Oasis class of ships beginning with the  new  Wonder of the Seas . Their emphasis is on activities like adrenaline-rushing water slides, surf simulators, and three-tiered race tracks.

Disney Cruise Line is an obvious place to start for families, but it has a surprising number of activities and experiences for adults, too, including adults-only areas on board. Still, this isn’t the line for an adult-only vacation unless you’re a hard-core Disney fan.

How much does it cost to book a cruise?

You may be wondering how much does a 7-day cruise usually cost? The answer is that it depends. The time of year you travel (avoid school holidays, for example), the destination, and the ports of call can affect the overall cost. 

Many travelers enjoy, for example, taking repositioning cruises. These happen typically as the seasons change and cruise lines move their ships from one region to another (between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, for example). Sometimes, these cruises visit islands that are rarely frequented making them more expensive. Many experts say that they are not ideal for first-time cruisers, however, as there may be many sea days. 

Shorter cruises that rely on drive-market travelers typically come with a lower price point than those in far-flung destinations. Special deals and repeat traveler discounts can also affect the overall cost.

What is the cheapest cruise ship to go on?

These are generally the shorter sailings from Miami or Port Canaveral, for instance, using the larger brands like Carnival, Princess Cruises, or Royal Caribbean, according to Sloan. The best deals are generally in the fall (the low season for Florida departures). Cruises to the Bahamas or the Caribbean tend to be more affordable than those to places like Europe or Alaska.

West Coast travelers can find great bargain deals on cruises to Mexico, too, adds Leppert.

What to know about cruise insurance

Don’t skimp on  cruise insurance . Cruise vacations can easily fall prey to flight disruptions or storms that can snarl plans. Check online for insurance policies from places like VisitorsCoverage and Seven Corners, which have reasonable prices for comprehensive coverage.

If you’re flying to the embarkation point, plan to arrive the day before—even the most perfect cruise won’t wait if you’re stuck in air traffic congestion all morning. Yet another reason to ensure you’re insured.

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Explore > Cruise > Cruising 101: Best Cruise Lines For First Time Cruisers

Cruising 101: Best Cruise Lines For First Time Cruisers

I’m often asked, “Which are the best cruise lines for first time cruisers?” and like most questions related to booking travel, getting to the best answer requires asking more questions. Every cruise line offers a similar list of onboard amenities, like pools, entertainment, dining options and activities for all ages. But where they differ is in which type of traveler they cater to most. Before you start down the path of choosing the right cruise line for your first cruise, think about what type of traveler you are. What do you like to do on vacation? What kinds of amenities and activities are most important to you?

Cruise line branding will give you a lot of clues about what kind of travelers they’re targeting, but if I had to completely stereotype some of the major cruise lines and their typical guests, here’s how I’d do it. Consider this your cheat sheet on the best cruise lines for first time cruisers.

1. Carnival – For short sailings and the budget conscious

As a line that caters specifically to first timers, many consider Carnival to be one of the best cruise lines for first time cruisers. A lot of that has to do with vacation value. If you’ve never tried cruising before, you may not feel comfortable spending what you normally would on a land vacation. If that’s the case, Carnival is a great option offering some of the cheapest fares at sea. The line also offers tons of three to five-night cruises providing opportunities to save both dollar bills and precious vacation days as you dip your toes into this new form of travel.

Carnival also provides more options for cruise departure points in the US than any other cruise line. You’ll find Carnival cruises leaving from 18 different embarkation ports in 11 different states! When you can drive to your cruise instead of flying, this leads to significant savings, especially for families. While Carnival would not be considered a luxury cruise line, all those savings don’t mean you won’t enjoy some awesome onboard amenities. Calling their fleet The Fun Ships, Carnival boasts its own set of noteworthy experiences including the first roller coaster at sea and restaurants created by some of the biggest names in cuisine like Emeril Lagasse and Guy Fieri.

2. Disney Cruise Line – For Disney lovers and families with small kids

Not surprisingly, Disney hits it out of the theme park when it comes to cruising amenities for kids, but particularly for families with small children. Infants as young as six months old can sail on most Disney itineraries and can be left in the expert care of the It’s a Small World Nursery between 9am and midnight so parents can take advantage of a romantic dinner, or even a shore excursion. The babysitting service isn’t free, but can be reserved in advance of your cruise so you can plan ahead.

Travel cribs and Diaper Genies are available free of charge for in-room use, and unlike nearly every other cruise line, Disney staterooms have bathtubs! Other thoughtful touches include a room dividing curtain making naptime a breeze and parenting essentials like diapers and kids’ sunscreen available in the gift shop. You’ll pay a premium to sail Disney, but all those extras that make your life easier are well worth the price of admission. Not to mention the look on your child’s face when they realize Mickey and Princess Elsa are fellow cruise guests!

3. Royal Caribbean – For adventure seekers & families with older kids

Boasting some of the biggest and most impressive ships at sea, Royal Caribbean’s fleet features some seriously brag-worthy amenities that tweens and teens will love. Light up your social media feed with onboard experiences like a zip line, surf simulator and trapeze school where you and the kids can live out your circus dreams. Challenge each other to a race down Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea, or feel what it’s like to fly on RipCord ® by iFLY ® , Royal Caribbean’s exhilarating skydiving simulator.

The thrills continue ashore on Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, which is exclusively visited by the line’s ships on Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries. The island offers even more action including North America’s tallest waterslide, the Caribbean’s largest freshwater pool, and a helium balloon ride soaring high over the island.

How to Spend the Perfect Day at CocoCay

4. Princess Cruises – For relaxation lovers and wellness enthusiasts

Roller coasters and race tracks aren’t for everyone. If you want to relax and recharge on your first cruise, Princess Cruises is an excellent option. With their tag line “Come Back New” , Princess emphasizes onboard amenities that are designed to help you unwind from the stress of daily life. Pamper yourself with a massage as the onboard Lotus Spa ® or get your zen on at a free yoga class on deck.

The Sanctuary, a spa-like retreat tucked away at the back of every Princess ship, is described as an “Ocean of Calm” and is exclusively for adult guests. Serenity Stewards in The Sanctuary tend to your every need providing everything from chilled towels, to noise cancelling headphones, to healthy meals. The relaxation even continues through the night on the Princess Luxury Bed, exclusively designed for the line and named the Best Bed at Sea by Cruise Critic!

6 Reasons Princess Cruises Might be the Right Fit For You

5. Norwegian – For entertainment buffs & the indecisive

If your ideal land vacation is a trip to New York or Vegas to experience the best of the dining and theater worlds, look no further than Norwegian for your first cruise. The line was voted Best Entertainment by Cruise Critic and for good reason! With musicals like Rock of Ages, Footloose and Kinky Boots performed onboard, you’ll forget you’re at sea and not on Broadway. Cirque Dreams , Norwegian’s unforgettable theatrical dining experience, showcases acrobatic feats you never dreamed possible, while Burn the Floor will have you swaying in your seat along with the dance theater company’s Latin beats.

In line with their Freestyle Cruising philosophy, Norwegian offers something for everyone, from solo staterooms to the largest suites at sea; from delectable fine dining restaurants to pool-side burger joints; from relaxing retreat areas to a thrilling, multi-level race track. If you can’t decide what kind of traveler you are, Norwegian could be a good option for your first cruise.

6 Reasons Norwegian Cruise Line Might Be the Right Fit For You

6. Oceania Cruises – For refined travelers and intimate experiences

If a normal vacation for you involves staying at four-star hotels and enjoying a higher standard of service, the popular cruise lines may not be right for you. While all contemporary lines do offer different tiers of service and staterooms, you may consider upgrading to a premium or luxury line for a more intimate cruise experience. Oceania Cruises calls itself the world’s only upper-premium cruise line and provides an excellent introduction to the luxury world of cruising–without the sticker shock of some of the more expensive lines.

Oceania’s mid-sized ships hold up to 1,250 guests and sail to lesser-visited, boutique ports that larger ships simply cannot access. This makes for interesting itineraries and more intimate, authentic travel experiences (both on and off the ship). Although the price tag is higher for Oceania, you’ll find more inclusions with your base fare like free Internet, butler service, in-port shuttles, and even complementary airfare from select US cities. Items that usually incur an upcharge on popular lines like specialty coffees, soda and bottled water are also included on Oceania.

7. Cunard – For bucket list journeys and old world cruising

If you’ve been idealizing the luxurious world of sea travel since you first saw Kate & Leo on Titanic back in 1997, the closest you’ll come to that old world cruise experience is on Cunard. Oozing tradition at every turn, Cunard’s iconic black, white and red ships will take you back in time as you listen to classical music, enjoy Shakespeare performances and leaf through literature at the largest library at sea.

With iconic itineraries like the Transatlantic crossing on Queen Mary 2, Cunard offers bucket list experiences that can only be found on a cruise vacation. The crossing involves at least a week at sea, but there is truly no better way to experience this once-in-a-lifetime journey than in the comfort and luxury of a Cunard ship.

We hope you found this guide helpful in determining which are the best cruise lines for first time cruisers! Taking the time to think about what kind of traveler you are and which cruise line aligns most closely with your preferences can make a huge impact on your cruise experience! Not all cruises are the same so choose wisely. For further reading in this series, take a look at Cruising 101: First Time Cruise Tips .

Book your first cruise here!

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Best cruise lines for first-timers

Looking for a fun-packed family holiday or the last word in luxury plan your first cruise holiday with our guide to which line would suit you best.

P lanning your first cruise can feel overwhelming when you realise how much choice there is out there. Do you go for a big ship or a small one? Adults-only or all-day kids’ clubs? You may feel the call of the ocean, or prefer the serenity of a river cruise, or even a thrilling polar expedition. Perhaps you’re travelling as a multigenerational group — or as a solo cruiser. Either way, there’s a ship for you.

The key is to do your research and find out which style of ship and which itinerary matches your personality. Here’s our guide to 10 different cruise lines, who would love them, and why.

Main photo: Hurtigruten sails to the Lofoten Islands, Norway (Wayne Brown/Hurtigruten)

1. Disney Cruise Line

Best for young families Why we rate it Disney brings its enchanting shoreside experience to sea on its dazzling — and surprisingly luxurious — ships. If your kids are fans of Star Wars, Marvel and Disney Pixar they’ll be mesmerised and likely hooked on cruising for life. On board there’s child-friendly dining, a craft-filled kids’ club and plenty of Disney characters to meet and greet. Get comfy at the theatre and watch favourites such as Frozen and Beauty and the Beast with productions that rival those on Broadway. There’s plenty for parents, too, with nightclubs, an adults-only pool and at least one smart, adults-only restaurant on each ship. What’s included Most restaurants, all entertainment and kids’ clubs. You’ll pay extra for excursions, crew tips, wi-fi, speciality dining and bar drinks. Price ££

Main photo: Lofoten, Norway (Wayne Brown/Hurtigruten)

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2. Royal Caribbean

Best for active families Why we rate it Royal Caribbean’s huge, activity-packed cruise ships have come a long way since the time when scaling a climbing wall was the height of exoticism. Active families will be blown away by Royal’s contemporary ships, which are filled with thrills — zip-lining, surf simulators and skydiving simulators being the big-hitters. You’ll also find state-of-the-art production shows and — gently exhale — some serene, adults-only spaces. What’s included A range of restaurants, entertainment and kids’ clubs. Expect to get your wallet out for bar drinks, crew tips, wi-fi, speciality dining, shore excursions and some of the activities. Price ££

3. Silversea

Best for luxury Why we rate it Silversea is the epitome of ultra-luxury in the cruise world. Intuitive service, a wide choice of restaurants, swish cocktail bars and lavish amounts of deck space all contribute to a sense of class. Each ship is beautifully designed, with Italian flair and spacious, all-suite accommodation. Three of the fleet are dedicated to expedition cruising and expedition leaders and naturalists are world-class when it comes to their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm. What’s included All dining (bar the classic French cuisine in La Dame), drinks, crew tips, an excursion in most ports, butler service, wi-fi and all activities on expeditions. Price £££

Best cruise lines in the world

4. Hurtigruten

Best for coastal cruising Why we rate it If you love the idea of a cruise but have yet to be convinced about long ocean crossings, choose a voyage that hugs the coast. Hurtigruten’s classic coastal itineraries sail between Bergen and Kirkenes, right up by the Russian border, with lots of stops in tiny villages along the way. Superlative scenery is always in sight, from waterfalls cascading down the sheer cliffs of the fjords to the sleepy harbours and rocky shores of the Lofoten Islands. You can get off the ship several times a day or simply lounge in the hot tub on deck, watching the scenery drift by. In winter, there’s an excellent chance of seeing the northern lights shimmying across the sky. What’s included Hurtigruten cruises are full-board with meals inspired by Norwegian cuisine. Lectures and workshops are included, but be prepared to pay extra for bar drinks, crew tips, excursions (best booked as a package to save money) and wi-fi. Price £-££

Best for millennials Why we rate it A cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line or, for that matter, its rival Carnival Cruise Line, will quickly dispel any myths about holidays at sea being just for older people. Norwegian’s modern ships, distinguished by their jauntily painted hulls, are packed with sleek venues and innovative activities — including the longest go-kart track at sea on Norwegian Encore. Smash Broadway hits such as Kinky Boots , Six and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert play in the theatres, while DJ sets at Bliss Ultra Lounge, or shots in the Ice Bar, take the entertainment late into the night. The newest ships have compact Studio cabins, too, for solo travellers. What’s included Dining across a variety of restaurants and all evening entertainment. You’ll need to pay for bar drinks, tips, speciality dining, excursions and some activities. Check out the line’s Free At Sea packages; for example, £99 for a week will buy you all-inclusive drinks, or fee-free speciality dining. Price £-££

Best for no-fly cruises Why we rate it If you want a holiday without the airport stress, opt for popular P&O Cruises, with sailings from Southampton. Take as much luggage as you can carry, park at the port or hop in a cab from the station, check in and the holiday begins. P&O’s comfortable, contemporary ships sail to the fjords, the Baltic, Spain and France and the Mediterranean. There’s even the option of the occasional no-fly Caribbean cruise. These cruises are always very popular as families love the convenience of sailing from Southampton — although P&O has some ships that are adults-only, too. What’s included All meals, entertainment, kids’ clubs and crew gratuities. Bar drinks, excursions and some activities will set you back extra. Price £-££

What it’s like to go on a round-the-world cruise

7. Avalon Waterways

Best for river cruises Why we rate it River cruises have a reputation for being staid, but Avalon’s contemporary Suite Ships and the activities they offer will quickly convince you otherwise. Most choose the Rhine or the Danube for their first river cruise, as both offer striking scenery and a number of big-name cities (visits to Budapest and Vienna, for example, on the Danube). Avalon’s excursions include hiking, kayaking and cycling tours, while dining on board is open-seating — something that’s a rarity on river cruises. There’s a focus on local and healthy cuisine, with Avalon Fresh items on each menu created by Austria’s Wrenkh brothers — two leading chefs in the healthy-eating movement. What’s included Pretty much everything — all meals, drinks with meals (including sparkling wine with breakfast), excursions, crew tips, fitness classes and activities on board. Bar drinks are extra. Price ££

Best for solo travellers Why we rate it More than 20 per cent of cabins on Saga’s smart, modern ships are allocated to singles — and each one has a private balcony. Solo travellers are always made welcome on this over-50s line, with a singles’ mingle and a lunch for solos on each cruise. You can request to share a table in any of the restaurants with other guests, and can even ask to buddy-up with other singles on shore excursions. What’s more, there are gentleman dance hosts to dance with those, solo or otherwise, who enjoy a spin at the ship’s ballroom sessions. A chauffeur service between home and the port adds extra reassurance to single travellers concerned about getting luggage on and off public transport on their own. What’s included Where to start? All dining, drinks, all entertainment, crew tips, wi-fi, chauffeur to and from the port, selected shore excursions and travel insurance. Price ££

9. Celebrity Cruises

Best for LGBTQ Why we rate it Celebrity Cruises has always promoted itself as LGBTQ+-friendly and its elegant, modern ships attract a diverse mix of passengers many of them being first-time cruisers who feel immediately comfortable in the inclusive environment the company has created. Both staff ashore and crew onboard undergo diversity and unconscious-bias training. You’ll find diversity is celebrated on board and not couched in euphemisms, as it is on some more traditional lines — and each cruise has an LGBTQ+ welcome party. Celebrity was also the first line to offer legal same-sex marriages at sea. What’s included Celebrity’s new Always Included is a real winner. Drinks, crew tips and wi-fi are included on every cruise, as well as dining in a variety of restaurants. You’ll pay extra for speciality dining, some gym classes, shore excursions and premium drinks. Price ££

Best for transatlantic cruises Why we rate it If you’re going to cross the Atlantic, a bucket-list entry for many, you’ll want a ship that’s built for the job. Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 is the only scheduled transatlantic service, sailing regularly between Southampton and New York. The ship is like a city at sea, with glittering black-tie balls, the cosy Golden Lion pub — which we reckon to be the best at sea — elegant cocktail lounges, a spotless spa and a programme bursting with fascinating lectures and activities. There won’t be a dull moment, although many find the seven-day crossing to be a welcome break to sit back, relax and leave the world behind. What’s included? Meals and entertainment come as part of the cost – including Cunard’s famous afternoon tea. You’ll pay extra for bar drinks, speciality dining, crew tips and some classes in the gym. Price £-£££, depending on the class of travel you choose. A crossing can cost under £1,000 including the one-way flight, or considerably more if you book a swanky Queens Grill cabin.

The perfect destinations for a first-time cruiser

Sail with MSC The Gulf is a good bet for guaranteed sunshine, and it’s a great destination for first-time cruisers as the distances between the ports are short. A sailing here is also great value, as life on shore in glitzy spots like Dubai can be expensive. The new MSC Virtuosa, as glittering on board as the desert cities to which it sails, visits Dubai , Abu Dhabi and Dammam in Saudi Arabia on a seven-night jaunt from Doha. You’ll also have a day at Sir Bani Yas, a desert island with watersports and a nature reserve.

Sail with Star Clippers A sailing with Star Clippers is the way to convince a reluctant cruiser that life at sea can be adventurous yet dreamily romantic. The 170-passenger Star Flyer potters between sleepy Greek islands , mainly propelled by 36,000 sq ft of billowing sails. Laze in the giant nets strung across the bowsprit, try your hand at mast climbing and head to the deck at sunset, glass in hand, as the sails creak up the mast and the ship sails off its anchor into the night. This voyage from Athens visits Dikili in Turkey, Lemnos, Skiathos, Skopelos (of Mamma Mia! fame) and Poros.

Sail with Virgin Voyages If you associate cruise ship nightlife with dodgy dad dancing, Virgin Voyages is here to show you otherwise. High-energy entertainment, private karaoke rooms and cool, two-deck-high nightclubs are luring a younger crowd to the waves. A Korean barbecue, drag queen-hosted brunches and an onboard tattoo parlour stretch the boundaries of traditional cruising even further. Next summer’s sailings from Barcelona on the new Valiant Lady call at Olbia, Cannes and Marseilles, with an overnight in Ibiza for the full clubbing experience.

Sail with Regent Seven Seas Bald eagles, bears, humpbacks and orcas – the wildlife-viewing in Alaska is superb, and a small ship is the best way to take it all in. Sailings on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner are certainly pricey, but everything is included on this voyage between Vancouver and Seward, from gourmet dining to drinks and tips and, most important, excursions. That means you can kayak from Ketchikan, whale-watch at Icy Strait Point and hike next to a glacier from Juneau, all against a backdrop of pristine forest and snowy mountain peaks.

Sail with G Expedition As many as a third of the passengers on board the venerable G Expedition will be travelling solo, and with a cabin-share scheme, communal dining and activity-packed days, you won’t have a chance to feel lonely. You’ll have unforgettable shared experiences on this expedition from Longyearbyen, capital of Norway’s remote Svalbard archipelago, as you set out into the icy landscape in search of walruses, Arctic foxes and, of course, polar bears. Conditions will determine the itinerary, but you’ll explore by Zodiac or hike with experienced expedition leaders every day.

Sail with MS This Danube cruise is satisfyingly cerebral, stringing together three European capitals: Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. You’ll also visit Melk for the magnificent baroque abbey, and Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart. The five-star MS William Wordsworth is a comfortable floating base from which to explore while taking in the vineyards, villages and meadows along the riverbanks in between stops. It’s affordable, too, when you bear in mind how much is included.

Sail with Oceania You won’t compromise on fine dining on Oceania Cruises’ smart Riviera, which sails the Caribbean this winter from Miami. The food is exceptionally good, with everything from sunset tapas at the Terrace Café to Italian classics in Toscana, and Thai curry in Red Ginger to the magnificent cheese trolley in Jacques. There’s also a gourmet menu in the Grand Dining Room for vegetarians. In between meals you’ll visit Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, as well as Roatan in Honduras and Harvest Caye, Belize. The fare includes a choice of a drinks package, four excursions or £290 spending credit per cabin.

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18 Best Cruise Lines for First-Time Cruisers

If you are a first-time cruiser, then check out this list of cruise lines for first-timers.

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Cruising is considered to be one of the eccentric ways to travel in the industry. Cruise travel is associated with high-ceiling, lavish interiors, on-deck pools, open-air cinema, water rides, and other extravaganzas. Sailing is more of a lifestyle than a travel experience. First-timers ought to get befuddled, given the extensive options of cruise lines and destinations in the industry. The all-inclusive reputation of cruises is all the more reason to set out for a majestic destination on the high seas. Avid First time Cruisers who want to try out waterways as a mode of transport are guaranteed to be impressed by the unmatched oomph on the ship along the way.

List of 18 Recommended Cruise Lines for first-time cruisers

• Disney Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Silversea Cruises
• Oceania Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Viking River Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• MSC Cruises
• Virgin Voyages
• Azamara Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Celestyal Cruises
• Seabourn Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises

1. Disney Cruise Line for Kids and Families

Imagine cruising on a mini version of Disneyland! Disney cruise line has a patent for family cruises in the industry. The family-oriented cruise creates a bubble of joy with Disney-themed designs and amenities to keep the cruisers amused. Snuggle up with your favorite Disney characters on the vessel, like Goofy, Pooh, Cinderella, and many more. Decorated nurseries equipped with toys and other baby products are also available onboard. Savour delicacies at top restaurants with fairy tale décor, and draw yourself a luxurious bath in the bathtub in your stateroom.

Also, Read: How to save money on the Disney cruise line ?

2. Royal Caribbean International for Driving Innovation At Sea

Royal Caribbean International is not just a brand but a way of living. The guests are enthralled by the premium services onboard. The ships boast adventure sports equipment onboard, pools, bars, pubs, and several other amenities for adults. The entire vibe of Royal Caribbean is more adult-centric than family-oriented, with the party lifestyle and on-deck sports. Drink a mocktail, try out your luck at the casino, and dance the night away on Royal Caribbean!

3. Silversea Cruises for Luxury on the Mainstream Line

Hop aboard with Silversea Cruises if luxury is your priority. The upscale cruise ships attract a mature crowd with their all-inclusive pricing that allows you to evade unexpected pricing. Go fine dining by the sea with the view of the horizon. The pace of activities is more relaxing and relatively slow as compared to mainstream entertainment cruises.

Also, Read:   what is the average cost of a Silversea cruise ?

4. Oceania Cruises for World Tours

Persons intrigued by the making of exotic dishes and gourmet cuisines must get on board with Oceania Cruises . The food served at the restaurants onboard speaks volumes for its culinary arts. Revered chefs such as the French chef Jacques Pepin are in charge of the culinary endeavors onboard. The line is famous for its lobsters and Asian-style food.

5. Carnival Cruise Line for Budget-Friendly Cruising

Carnival Cruise Line appeals to a wide spectrum of guests who want to sail on a budget. Their ships sail to the Caribbean , Bahamas , and Mexico for a fun-filled vacation. You will find itineraries as short and cheap as you want. Although reasonable, the uncompromising service is what attracts the customers. With maximum ports in the US, carnival travels to 11 different states.

6. Holland America Line for Shorter Getaways To World Tours

Go solo with Holland America Line , which hosts glamorous parties for singles and couples. Cruisers will always have things to do on their vacation. Mingle with your fellow cruises and make unforgettable memories in the seas. On the brighter side, the line is also queer-friendly and sets you up with a partner of your preference. The services onboard are undoubtedly spick and span, considering their long-term existence in the industry.

7. Norwegian Cruise Line for Freestyle Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line is packed with entertainment shows. Be it music, comedy, theatre, or dance, each performance has its own charm on its vessels. Musicals like Rock of Ages, Footloose, and Kinky Boots are among the most popular ones on their cruises. Tap your feet and sway to the Latin beats during Burn The Floor. There are plenty of diners, bars, discos, and even a bowling area for entertainment.

8. Princess Cruises for Luxury Travel and Exceptional Customer Service

This slow-paced cruise line allows you to enjoy your journey at your own pace. Sailing on Princess Cruises is truly a rejuvenating experience as it lives up to its tagline, “Come Back New.” The onboard amenities of the ships are designed to pamper the guests in all manners. You can book a spa and relax in the ambient parlors or even sign up for a yoga class.

9. Cunard Line To Experience Victorian Cruising

Cunard Line is the closest you will come to Victorian cruising if you have passionately been fantasizing about sailing on the Titanic. The aesthetic oozes British features with sophisticated interiors. This is a line for ladies and foppish dandies who wish to immerse themselves in Shakespeare's works. The cruise line’s Transatlantic itineraries are sure to leave the guests mesmerized with beauty as they sail with elegance.

10. Viking River Cruises To Explore Medieval Towns on Riverbanks

River cruising is the most leisurely way to sail through the narrow waters and explore the intricacies of a destination. Viking River Cruises is known for its destination-centric itineraries that enable you to explore the place in and out. A total of 60 vessels of the line sail through the waterways of Europe , Egypt, Russia , and Asia. Scandinavian interiors and the specialized treatment by the crew are known to impress travelers.

11. Celebrity Cruises for the LGBTQ Community

We can say that Celebrity Cruises  is perhaps the most LGBTQ-friendly cruise line. On cruise ships, you can always find out that they go above and beyond to make their guests happy and comfortable and let them enjoy their cruise vacation. Not only that, but this cruise line has also announced that people in this community can perform same-sex marriages onboard their cruise ships by the Caption in the year 2017. Thus, whether you want to hop on celebrity cruise ships for your vacation, honeymoon, or your wedding, you’ll never be disappointed.

Moreover, this cruise line is also famous for its luxury and is known as a premium cruise line. Here, you can get everything from live entertainment to multi-cuisine food, bars, drinks, parties, and much more. One of the main reasons people love to travel with a celebrity cruise line is its crew, which is very friendly and accommodating. So, if you’re a first-timer and looking for a cruise vacation and a cruise line that offers premium luxury, consider a celebrity cruise line.

12. MSC Cruises for Experiencing Innovative Italian Culture

If you want to experience the Italian culture and atmosphere, consider the MSC cruises . It is often one of the most affordable cruise lines that attracts a lot of families from across the world, including young individuals. Their ships are more sustainable and innovative, with incredibly beautiful designs and a resort feeling. It offers several entertaining options, including water slides, zip lines, ropes courses, and gorgeous pools on the top decks.

Even if you’re on a tight budget, MSC is for you. Currently, it has 20 ships in its fleet and sails across the world, covering destinations like Europe, Egypt, the Caribbean, Bahamas, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and many more. In short words, you can explore all small and unique ports no matter where you want to go!

13. Virgin Voyages for Some Adult-Only Experience

For every couple, spending quality time together is not easy with kids, but on Virgin Voyages , it is possible. This is the only cruise line that offers an adult-only experience to its guests, making their cruise vacation a perfect couple’s getaway. Don’t get them wrong – they also love kids. Still, their concept is to give adults some space and privacy from their daily lives, which involves their errands and parental duties.

There are many adult-friendly activities that you can enjoy onboard, including romantic dinner dates, relaxing and rejuvenating in the spa, and adding a splash of romance to your vacation. Moreover, the cruise line believes that sometimes the absence of your kids makes your heart grow loving. In fact, you can say that these ships are your playgrounds for your inner child.

14. Azamara Cruises Is an Upscale but Not Quite Luxury

An upscale cruise line that focuses on big destinations and a lot of charms. Just like its tagline, “Stay Longer, Experience More,” Azamara Cruises offers itineraries that stay overnight in smaller, less-traveled ports in more than 70 countries. Not only that but there are also many reasons why Azamara might be the cruise line for you. The reasons are longer cruise itineraries, warm and friendly ambiance, notable dining experience, best deck parties at sea, more inclusive fares, and fully geared with adult activities.

Moreover, every year, it features maiden ports, including numerous other unusual and exotic destinations.

15. Regent Seven Seas Cruises - the Premier All-Inclusive Luxury Line

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has six ships in its fleet, and all vessels receive high marks for their all-inclusive approach and luxury service commitment. It gives ample personal space, with many lounges, social spaces, and incredible restaurants providing multiple cuisines. Not only that, but the ship also has some excellent spa and wellness facilities, a blissful atmosphere, quality services, and professional fitness experts for quality training and guidance.

Experience the award-winning and intuitive service that comes with impressive food, complimentary amenities, all-balcony suites, and much more for your journeys around the world.

16. Celestyal Cruises for Destination Focus Itinerary

Celestyal Cruises offers itineraries for up to 14 nights . It is a Greek-owned and operated cruise line offering a Greek atmosphere. Not only that, it is also offering Greek menu items, bands, wines, and many such things that are inspired by Greek culture. Apart from the Greek atmosphere, it will take you to exotic destinations like the Greek Isles, Cyprus, Turkey, Egypt, Israel, and the Mediterranean.

This mid-size cruise ship has everything you need in amenities, such as a pool, jacuzzi, promenade deck, spa, fitness center, casino, and several gifting shops on board, which are tax-free. However, remember that this cruise line is not for you if you want ultra-luxury; it’s a normal cruise line with extravagant service and a perfect atmosphere.

Also, Read:  How much does a cruise cost ?

17. Seabourn Cruises for Upscale Cruise Vacations with Smaller Ships

Seabourn Cruise Line tops in upscale cruise vacations with its small ships. It has an almost one-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio. It incorporates luxurious pampering from décor to entertainment to health and fitness. It also offers a private club atmosphere to its guests. For example, guests can make dinner reservations in advance to order popcorn and drinks for the afternoon movie.

So whether you want to sail to the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, this cruise line can take you anywhere and to hidden ports of the world on their small ships. However, you can try their fixed itinerary of the Mediterranean in summer and the Caribbean in winter. Also, remember that the all-inclusive package doesn’t include the excursions, and your dress code should also be notched up. You can wear your resort-style casual clothes during the daytime or on outings and dress up in the evenings in some formal or casual wear.

18. Viking Ocean Cruises – the Thinking Person Cruise

Yes, you read it right. Viking Ocean Cruises is recognized as the Thinking Person Cruise because of its ocean itineraries, which are specially designed to let their guests not only explore the destinations but also allow them to go through its traditions, history, culture, cuisines, and customs.

Embark upon the vacation of your lifetime and trust these cruise lines to liven up your journey with top-notch amenities and fun activities.

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Taking Your First Cruise: Everything You Need to Know (Complete Guide)

First time taking a cruise? There’s no doubt that you have questions on how to prepare.

Sure you’ve seen all the pretty pictures on the cruise line website and all the glossy photos in the marketing brochures. But what is it really like to take a cruise?

What sort of things are there to do on the ship? What’s the first day of a cruise like? How do you board the ship? Or tip a waiter? Or get a drink?

Note: This article focuses primarily on sailing the Caribbean/Mexico/Bahamas. If sailing Alaska, then we suggest our article here .

If you’ve never taken a cruise before, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Every year cruise lines around the world welcome millions of new passengers. That means you won’t be alone on the ship in being a first-timer, and the staff will always be happy to help with any questions you have.

As well, no two cruise lines are the same. So even if someone has sailed a number of times on one line, they may still feel like a rookie the first time sailing a different cruise line.

The bottom line? There’s no reason to feel like you’re going to be the only one who isn’t quite sure what to do on the ship. Don’t let the worry of being unsure what to do make you feel self-conscious.

Beyond that, we’ve laid out everything you need to know about taking your first cruise… and how to sail like a pro.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. Cruzely earns a commission for purchases made through these links, at no extra cost to you.

In This Article...

Overview of Taking Your First Cruise

While we will get into all the details of your first cruise below, let’s start with a general overview. The specifics might vary from line to line, but the general aspects of your trip will be similar.

So what is cruising like?

Truth is, it can be whatever you want it to be. If you want it to be a wild party time with lots of sun, booze, and entertainment, then it can be. If you’re looking for something relaxing and quiet, it can be that too.

Today’s cruise ships are large enough — and offer enough things to do — that no matter what sort of trip you are looking for, you’ll be able to have it on a cruise.

It’s no exaggeration that you’ll find everything from newlyweds on a honeymoon to couples celebrating their 50th anniversary. You’ll also find families, bachelorette parties, and just folks looking to get away for a bit. (Note that some cruise lines cater to different crowds, such as Virgin Voyages, which is adults only.)

While the major cruise lines cater to a wide audience, one thing is for certain. You can expect a lot of people on the ship. Modern ships typically carry around 3-4,000 passengers, with the largest ships carrying 6,000 plus. That means the ship is usually buzzing with activity. But don’t think you can’t get away. Ships are huge, which means there are always quieter spots on the ship if you prefer.

Your Cabin While on the ship, the cabin on the ship is your home away from home. First-time cruisers are always surprised at the size of a cruise cabin. Put bluntly, they are small. The image below is a rather large cruise cabin.

Even so, a cabin will have everything that you need. From your bed to a television, from a closet to a full bathroom (shower only, no tub unless you opt for much larger suites), it offers anything a normal hotel room will have, albeit in a much cozier space. (This also includes things like an in-room fridge, a small safe, and a hair dryer.)

For two adults the size is plenty, but for more than two adults and a kid, we’d suggest looking into two cabins — even though most say they can accommodate up to four people.

Many passengers opt for a balcony cabin , and it’s hard to argue with that plan. While it is a little pricier than the cheapest interior cabins, having your own private balcony is a nice feature. Balconies are normally small, but enough for two chairs and a small table. One other nice feature is that having a balcony gives you access to fresh air, unlike interior or oceanview cabins.

During the trip your cabin will be serviced by the room steward. Each day they will make up the room and deliver things like the daily schedule. They tend to work at the times that most passengers are out of the room (e.g. dinner time), so as not to disturb people. 

The steward will introduce themselves on your first day on the ship, and you can let them know anything you might need. Don’t hesitate to ask if you want something to make your cruise better, or if you have any questions about how things work. They are always more than happy to help.

Food and Drink on a Cruise What’s a cruise without food? And it just doesn’t feel right to hang out poolside without a drink in your hand. On a cruise, there is no shortage of food or drink.

Hungry? These days cruise ships have lots of restaurants — in some cases up to a dozen different places. These range everything from the buffet to the formal dining room to specialty restaurants. There is also usually a 24-hour restaurant or café where you can get something to eat no matter the time.

What’s confusing for many first-timers is that some food is free, and some places are a charge to eat. Apart from the buffet and the dining room, most sit-down restaurants on cruise ships these days have an extra charge for eating there.

Speaking of the buffet and dining room, these spots are where most people will eat their meals. The buffet is open for all three meals. You simply walk in when you’re hungry and grab a plate.

The dining rooms normally assign a dinner time, but many also have “anytime” dining where you just show up and you’ll be seated. Here you get the white tablecloth dining experience. Expect it to take about an hour and a half to eat. (Many people don’t realize you can also eat breakfast in the dining room as well. The food is fresher than that you’ll find in the buffet, with smaller crowds.)

Specialty (extra charge) restaurants offer up more intimate dining, with smaller venues and usually need reservations. Just like on land, the specialty restaurants can vary from Asian to Mexican to Italian, and of course, the ever popular steakhouse.

Thirsty? Alcohol is big business on a cruise, and you’ll know it right away. That’s because there are bars everywhere on the ship. The casino, the pool, the center atrium, and all throughout the ship. You are never more than a few steps from a bar.

While many things are included in your cruise fare, alcohol is not (unless you book a special package). Instead, you will need to buy drinks, and they can be pricey. It’s normally $6-8 for a beer and about $10-14 for a cocktail. One other thing to remember is that gratuity is added (normally around 18%) to the price of each drink.

If you plan on drinking a lot, then cruise lines also sell alcohol packages . These deals allow you to pay one set price each day and drink your fill.

Non-alcoholic drinks are typically a charge too. This includes soda. You can get water, juice, and tea complimentary in restaurants.

Entertainment and Activities Remember how we said that your cruise can be anything you want it to be? That’s because there is always something going on, and it’s a wide variety of things to do. From evening shows in the theater to belly-flop contests by the pool, there’s lots happening. The good news is that it’s often included in your cruise fare.

The most popular entertainment might be the evening theater shows. Some nights this might be a Broadway-style show. Other nights it can be a live game show (spin-offs of “The Newlywed Game” are especially common). But there will be some big event in the theater almost every night.

The theater, however, is just a drop in the bucket of the things to do. There are pools, hot tubs, the casino, spa, waterslides, shopping, sport courts, and more. Newer ships will often have more things to do, including things as crazy as go-karts and a roller coaster or zipline.

In addition to all of those, the staff puts on activities throughout the day. These range from trivia contests to dance parties and everything in between. You’ll get a daily schedule of everything going on delivered to your stateroom the night before or you can view it on the phone app for your cruise line.

Want to just do your own thing? Of course, that’s always popular. Spend some time at the pool, grab something to eat, take a nap… it’s your vacation. Just because there is a schedule of activities doesn’t mean you have to follow it.

Visiting Ports of Call One thing that might surprise first-time passengers is visiting ports of call. For instance, on a 7-day cruise you might have three or four ports of call. But each stop is usually only about eight hours long. In other words, the vast majority of your time is spent on the ship .

When it comes to ports of call, they can vary widely. Cruise line private islands are popular as they are completely for the use of passengers. They have many of the amenities you’d expect on the ship, including loungers, bars, and activities, and many of these items are included for free with your fare. Have a drink package? They usually extend to cruise ship private islands.

Other ports of call are your chance to experience another country. They are completely separate from the cruise ship, and you are free to explore as you please.

Looking for something to do? Cruise lines offer excursions that you can book on the ship (fees apply). Excursions can range from everything from beach days to snorkeling to cultural activities. Or you can simply head out on your own.

One thing to note is that many ports of call have welcome areas right at the end of the dock. This often includes shops, restaurants, and spots to book excursions if you haven’t already. If you don’t feel like going anywhere, these spots offer something to do off the ship.

No matter where you are visiting, be sure to bring your cruise keycard (more on this in a moment), some ID, and a little pocket money.

What to Expect at Embarkation (Boarding)

Embarkation — a fancy word for when you get on the ship — is filled with excitement. So what can you expect as a first-time cruiser?

First, there are a couple of ways that you can start. Many are choosing to check-in online ahead of time. In fact, this is what we recommend if possible. Doing this allows you to fill out required forms, attach a credit card to your account, and more ahead of time. It will greatly speed up the time in the terminal and allow you to board faster.

For those that choose to check-in the traditional way, it will take a little longer, but not too long.

No matter what you choose, when you book your cruise you will have an arrival time. These days many cruise lines have moved to staggered check-in where you are given a 30-minute boarding window to arrive at the port. This helps spread passengers out over time instead of having a big rush right when the ship opens for passengers. Some cruises may simply have a boarding window of several hours, allowing you to arrive at any time you like within that period.

As you arrive at the terminal, there will be a place to check your bags if you want. Porters will load bags onto the ship, and the staff will deliver them to your room later. As a general rule, large heavy bags are good to check, but always have a carry-on with important items like medicines, your passport, and a change of clothes for the first day.

When you enter the port terminal, the first thing you’ll do is enter and show your boarding pass and ID. From there, you will pass through security. Cruise ship security is similar to going through an airport, but not as invasive. After having your documents checked, you’ll place your carry-on bag on an x-ray machine and then pass through a metal detector.

From there, you’ll meet with an agent that will tie up any loose ends needed before boarding, such as a photo tied to your account. If you’ve checked in online, your room keys will likely be waiting in a sealed envelope at your door.

These cards not only act as your room key while on the ship, but also as a credit card linked to your account. Other than the casino, you don’t use cash on a modern cruise ship. Instead, if you want to by anything onboard, you simply swipe your keycard. The bill is settled up at the end of the cruise.

After meeting with the check-in agent, you’re ready to head to the ship as long as the staff is ready to start boarding. If you arrive early, you might have to wait in the terminal until the ship is ready.

Your First Day on a Cruise

The first day on a cruise is actually a bit of a misnomer. The first “day” is more like the first afternoon and evening as boarding generally starts around noon.

For most people, the first stop is to the cabin to drop off their bags and get settled in. This is a chance to find where your room is on the ship and get acquainted with where you’ll be living during your cruise. Note that if boarding early in the day, your room may not be ready yet.

From there, many take the chance to grab a drink and explore the ship a bit. There are also restaurants open where you can get a bite to eat. If you know that you want a drink package, or to reserve your spot in a specialty restaurant, it’s a good time to get those taken care of if you didn’t do so online ahead of time.

On the first day the big event on the ship is the muster drill. By law, cruise ships have to perform this safety drill. These days, it’s largely moved to digital, making it more convenient.

You’ll watch some safety information on your cabin TV or on your phone via the cruise line app. Then, you head to your muster station to check-in and watch a demonstration of putting on a life jacket.

In total the drill takes only a few minutes, and then it’s back to the fun. Don’t try skipping the drill; you sign in with your card and the staff will know who doesn’t show.

Activities are planned throughout the evening, including the sailaway party that’s held on the pool deck. The ship’s casino will open up once the ship is far enough offshore, and of course, bars will have the drinks flowing.

Want to hit the pool? Or grab dinner? The ship is now wide open for you to use. Your vacation has officially started.

What’s Included — and Costs Extra — on a Cruise

One of the most confusing things for first-time cruise passengers is what’s included with your cruise fare. Some people think that cruises are all-inclusive. That’s not usually the case on most lines. In fact, most people spend a substantial amount of money once on the ship. 

The extras you can spend money on range everything from alcohol to restaurants to gambling to souvenirs from the gift shop.

Even so, there are a number of things that are included. Below, we’ve highlighted the major things that are included with your fare, and what’s not.

Note: Some lines have started offering more “all inclusive” fares like NCL’s “ Free at Sea ” that include things like drink packages and wi-fi with your cruise.

What’s Included

Cabin: Of course with your cruise fare, the cabin is included. On the cruise the cabin is your home away from home. While small, it has everything you need for a week or so at sea. As well, you’ll get daily (or twice daily) steward service.

(Most) Food: Along with your cabin, food is the other major item that’s included on a cruise. What’s a little confusing is that not all food is included on most ships. Things like the buffet and main dining room and snacks are free of charge. Specialty restaurants, however, cost extra.

Entertainment/Activities: For the most part, things to do on the ship are included with your fare. So for the evening shows in the theater, just come in and find a seat. The same goes for most other activities onboard. There is a trend toward charging for some special activities like go-karts on Norwegian Cruise Line. As well, things like gambling and bingo obviously have a charge associated.

Amenities on the Ship: Except in a few rare cases, you have full run of the amenities on the cruise ship when you pay your fare. Want to go hang by the pool? Or maybe you want to work up a sweat in the gym? Or just enjoy many of the public spaces on the ship that are perfect for people watching? They are all available.

Room Service Breakfast: Room service used to all be free, but is trending toward being a charge. Even so, most lines will let you order breakfast for free.

Not Included Gratuities: So far we haven’t mentioned gratuities , but they are a big expense for a cruise. Cruise lines charge a daily set amount per passenger that is then passed on to people like the room steward and the waitstaff in the dining rooms. Amounts vary by cruise line, but normally gratuities run around $16 per person, per day. So a couple sailing for a week would pay about $200+ in gratuities. This amount can be prepaid when you buy your cruise, or it is charged daily to your onboard account.

Specialty Restaurants: While plenty of food is free, ships these days have a number of specialty restaurants that charge extra for you to eat. These are smaller restaurants that focus on one type of food. While the lineup varies by line and ship, the restaurants that charge are usually the sit-down eateries, with the exception of the main dining room.

Room Service: As mentioned above, you can normally get free room service breakfast, but cruise lines are moving toward charging for other items. So if you want a late-night snack or just want lunch in the cabin, expect to pay. (Don’t forget to tip the person bringing your food a couple of bucks.)

Drinks: Apart from tea, coffee, water and juices, expect to pay for drinks. This includes non-alcoholic beverages like soda, as well as beer, wine, and cocktails. Some cruise lines let you bring on a small amount of non-alcoholic drinks and a bottle of wine/champagne , so be sure to take advantage to save money.

Internet: The good news is that the Internet is available on cruise ships, so you can check email, keep up with social media, and in some cases even stream Netflix . The bad news is that it can be pricey. There are different service levels available, but it’s not unusual to pay $15-25+ a day for wi-fi access.

Excursions: Want something to do when the ship is in port? That’s an extra cost. Excursions can be booked before you sail, or you can wait until you get on the ship. There is always a spot where you can go and ask questions about different offerings and book your outing.

What to Pack for Your First Cruise

What to bring with you on a cruise is always a big question. In fact, we’ve covered it in detail on Cruzely with the following articles:

• 39 Useful Things to Pack for a Cruise
• Cruise Packing Checklist: 85 Items to Bring (Printable)
• What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

We will assume that you know to pack a swimsuit and a toothbrush for your cruise. Here are a few other things that first-time cruisers might not think to bring but are helpful on a cruise…

Outlet Adapter On your first cruise, it won’t be on your mind about plugging in electronics. But it will be after you sail. While the problem isn’t as big on newer ships where more outlets are included, many older ships have only one or two spots to plug anything in. So if you want to charge your phone and use a hair straightener, then it’s one or the other.

The solution is to pack an inexpensive outlet adapter that provides several plugs in a single space. They can be bought for about $5 on Amazon and are a lifesaver on a cruise.

Nightlight Cruise cabins — especially interior rooms with no windows — can get extremely dark at night. Combine that with an unfamiliar space and you’ll no doubt be bumping into things if you need to get up to use the restroom in the middle of the night.

Instead, pack a small nightlight that you can plug in to provide a some illumination. They aren’t big and won’t take up much room in your luggage.

Poo-Pourri Ok, let’s get real for a moment. Whoever you share a cabin with, you’re going to know them very well after your cruise. Cabins are small and the smells from the bathroom can linger.

That’s why it’s a good idea to bring some air freshener or some Poo-Pourri . This spray isn’t an air freshener, but instead you spray it over the water in the bowl before you go. Your cabinmate will be thankful that you brought it.

Copy of Your Passport/Birth Certificate For sure you need your real passport or birth certificate with you. But we suggest keeping them in the cabin safe during your trip so that they are secure. Instead, make a color copy of the front page of your passport or your birth certificate and bring this into port with you when you go.

You typically don’t have to show your documents in port. Instead, your cruise keycard and a photo ID (like a license) are asked for. Having a copy of your passport or birth certificate are simply nice to have in case you need it. They will provide something to show any officials in a pinch, and you can keep your real documents safe on the ship.

Towel Clips Towel clips are cheap and worth their weight in gold. If you cruise, you’ll no doubt spend some time catching some sun. But many people don’t realize that when the ship is underway there is a constant breeze as the ship moves. That means your towel will be whipping around.

Clips help secure the corners of the towel down instead of flying around at your feet and around your face.

Wrinkle-Release Spray Pack anything into a suitcase — even if only for a few hours — and you’re going to get wrinkles, no matter how careful you fold. As well, due to fire risk, irons aren’t available in cabins. You’ll need to send your items down to the laundry room to get them pressed. 

Instead of that hassle, just pack some wrinkle-release spray . You simply spray it on the wrinkles, smooth them out, and they vanish. 

OTC Medicines First, any cruise ship will have a small store where you can pick up small items that you might have forgotten at home. But they are expensive (we’ve seen cold medicine for $17 a bottle) and not open around the clock. So if you have a stomachache in the middle of the night or a headache, you don’t want to have to wait… or pay tons of money. 

Instead, bring a little of all types of over-the-counter medicines so that you have whatever you might need no matter what comes up.

Hand Sanitizer Unfortunately, it’s a new world we live in. Even without the pandemic, things like . Even so, you should take matters into your own hands, literally.

There will be sanitizer stations all around the ship, but bringing your own means you’ll always have it ready.

Click here for more on what to pack for a cruise .

Disembarkation at the End of Your Trip

Unfortunately, the saying is that all good things must come to an end. That includes your cruise. Don’t think, however, that disembarkation — getting off the ship — is as simple as just hopping off when the ship returns home. There’s a procedure to get thousands of passengers and luggage off the vessel, and it can take a couple of hours from when the ship arrives.

Actually, the disembarkation process begins the night before your cruise. At that time you’ll want to put any bags (with the provided luggage tags) you won’t carry off yourself outside your room. The staff will pick them up, and your bags will be waiting for you in the terminal when you get off the ship the next morning.

On the morning that your ship arrives in port, the ship will first be cleared by the officials. Only then will the ship allow passengers to leave. From there, the ship will call groups to disembark, typically starting with those that are carrying off all of their luggage.

The pace of disembarkation depends on what is going on in the terminal. Passengers need to go through the return process, which involves showing citizenship before they are allowed to leave.

In recent years technology — including passport scanners and facial recognition software — have made this faster at ports that have the latest devices. Even so, those sailing with a birth certificate or ports that still require manual checking of documents can take longer.

In all, the time to get off the ship can vary widely. Some people will get off within 15 minutes of the ship letting passengers exit while others might not get their turn to leave until 2-3 hours after arrival.

Helpful First-Time Cruise Tips

Need tips for your first cruise? We have dozens and dozens aimed at first-time cruisers here . As well, we’ve included some of our favorites below.

Take Advantage of Drink Policies Some cruise lines (such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival) allow you to bring on a small amount of non-alcoholic drinks with you when you board . So you can bring on some sodas, juices, teas, or anything else that you like. Take advantage. If your favorite drink isn’t something that’s sold everywhere, then it may not be on the ship. You can also save some money versus buying your drink of choice on the ship.

As well, cruise lines allow you to bring on bottles of champagne or wine (usually one bottle per adult) free of charge. If you’re a wine drinker, there’s no reason not to bring on a bottle to avoid the bar prices.

Know the Ins and Outs of Drink Packages Before Buying Alcohol is big business on a cruise, and it’s not unusual to spend hundreds on it during the course of a sailing. To help you budget, cruise lines offer “all you can drink” packages. With these deals, you pay one set amount each day and then get to have (almost) whatever you want from the bar.

But before you jump at the deal, you should know some of the details. Most importantly, if you buy the package, you have to buy it for the entire cruise. If there is a day that you don’t want to drink or you are in port (packages only work on the ship and on some private islands), then you likely won’t get your money’s worth.

As well, many cruise lines make every adult in the cabin buy the package if one adult does. This is likely to limit “sharing” of packages (which is against the rules). But if you have one person who drinks and another that doesn’t, then it could waste a lot of money to get the package.

For more on drink package rules, see our article here .

Many Hotels Have Free Cruise Parking One of the big attractions to cruising is that many people live within driving distance of a port. Instead of having to fly for a Caribbean vacation, you can drive to the port and then hop on a ship.

Of course, that means you need a place to park your car. Parking is always available at the port, but can be expensive. Instead, many hotels near cruise ports offer free or cheap parking if you stay with them the night before your cruise. It’s an easy way to save $100 or more if you plan to stay the night before anyway.

See our list of hotels with cruise parking here .

Don’t Go Naked on the Balcony First-timers (and frequent cruisers for that matter) often have the same idea — why not enjoy the fresh air on the balcony… everywhere?

It’s tempting with your own private space and a million-dollar view to maybe get some sun on places where the sun doesn’t shine, but just know that balconies aren’t as private as you think. Cabins are close together and there is only a small wall separating each balcony. As well, glass railings can actually reflect the view of one balcony to another.

If you do decide to fully enjoy the balcony on your first cruise, it’s best to wait until night… and make sure the lights are off.

Pack a Passport, Not a Birth Certificate One good thing about cruising is that you can visit a foreign country with only a birth certificate and a government-issued ID . If your cruise leaves and returns from the same port, then you can likely sail without a passport. That can save you the time and money of getting one.

However, it’s much smarter to sail with a passport. Not only does it give you more flexibility if something happens and you have to fly home in the middle of your cruise, but it can also save you time.

Many homeports are moving toward passport scanning to help passengers disembark more quickly. You walk up, scan the passport, take a picture and then head on your way home. But if you have a birth certificate, you still need to wait in line to meet with a Border Patrol agent, which can take half an hour or more.

Pack Sandals With Tread Those cheap foam flip-flops that cost about $3 and wear out in two weeks? Toss ’em. Instead, be sure you wear something that has a decent tread.

You’ll spend a lot of time walking on the pool deck of your ship where everything from kids splashing to passing rain showers can make the walk slippery. The last thing you want to do is hurt yourself on your vacation. Making sure your sandals have some grip is an easy way to avoid accidental slips on the ship.

Always Pack a Little for Cool Weather Of course cruises go everywhere, but the Caribbean is the biggest cruise hot spot in the world. And when you think about sailing there for the first time, you likely picture tons of sun, warm water, and swimsuits.

But at night on the ship, it can get cool. As the sun sets things cool off, but also the ship will be sailing at night, adding a stiff breeze. Even indoors the air conditioner can be chilly. It’s smart to pack something for those breezy nights like a light jacket and some long pants. If you only bring tank tops and shorts, you’re going to get cold.

Get Back to the Ship Early Whenever you head into port, the staff will make it very clear when the “all-aboard” time is for your return. This isn’t a suggestion. YouTube has tons of videos of “pier runners” — people running back to the ship as it is about to depart. Cruise ships have a tight schedule, and if you think you can arrive fashionably late to get back on the ship, think again.

Instead, always be back to the ship half an hour before the all-board time. This gives you a little extra cushion should something come up, but also ensures you should be back well before the ship departs and you turn into a YouTube viral video.

Try not to Schedule a Flight Home Before Noon Each year millions of cruise passengers fly into port cities to start their cruise. That means they will also be flying back home.

Now, no one wants to spend hours and hours just waiting in an airport, but it’s important that if you are flying, try not to schedule your flight before noon . Yes, it is possible that you will make a noon flight in plenty of time, but you don’t want to risk missing your plane home.

Cruise ships arrive back in port early in the morning, but it can be several hours before everyone is off the ship. As well, you then have to get to the airport, get through security, and find your gate. A departure time of noon or later gives you plenty of time so you don’t have to stress if there is a delay getting to the airport.

Formal Night Doesn’t Mean Tux (But It Can!) Formal night poses one big question: What do I wear to dinner? The answer is likely much more lenient than you expected.

First things first, if you want to wear a tuxedo and a formal evening gown, you won’t be out of place. Some people do. But if you want to simply wear a nice shirt/pants (men) or a nice blouse (women), then that’s perfectly acceptable and won’t be out of place.

In fact, the only rules are things like shorts and tank tops aren’t allowed. 

Don’t want to get dressed up on your cruise? That’s ok, too. Formal nights are only a couple of nights on a week-long cruise . If you don’t want to participate, you can just eat somewhere other than the main dining room during those nights. While you’ll see people dressed up around the ship, formal night only applies to dinner. You’re not expected to be dressed up if you are just around the ship. ( See more details about formal night here .)

Things That Surprise First-Timer Cruisers

When you sail for the first time, there is so much that is new. At the same time, cruising is very different from any other vacation. Combined, that leads to plenty of surprises.

See our full list of things that surprise first-time cruisers here .

Gratuities on Every Service We’ve discussed the daily gratuities that are charged to your account. But there are other gratuities on the ship. Any time you buy a drink, or a meal, or get a spa service — any sort of service that’s delivered by a staff member — you can expect an extra charge on top of the menu price.

This extra charge normally runs 18-20% (rates vary by cruise line) and is automatically applied. So if you order a cocktail with a $10 menu price, expect it to actually cost you about $12.

One other thing to note is that even after this gratuity is applied, your receipt that you sign will have a line for an additional tip. You aren’t obligated to give more, but if you’re happy with your service, it’s there to show your appreciation.

How Stable the Ships Are On the Water Worried about seasickness? It impacts some people, but if you are thinking the ship will be rocking and rolling the entire time, think again. Most days you’ll likely not even notice you are on the water.

Thanks to the size of cruise ships and stabilization features, the sailing is normally smooth. There are definitely times when you feel the ship move, but apart from a few outlying cases, chances are it will be clear sailing for your cruise.

Still, it’s a good idea to bring along some sort of seasickness remedy if you’re worried. It’s better to have it and not need it than to be without.

How You Can Get “Lost” On the Ship Cruise ships are big, and the first couple of days you’ll likely be turned around trying to navigate the ship. Even to veteran cruise passengers, new ships can be a maze to figure out until they get their bearings.

The good news is there are maps everywhere around the ship to help you find your way. They are usually located near stairwells or elevators. As well, the cruise line apps on your phone always have maps of the ship as well. Don’t be embarrassed to stop and look for directions. You definitely won’t be alone!

All the Sales Pitches You’ll See If you think that you’re done spending money once you buy your ticket to cruise, think again. Cruise lines depend on the money that passengers spend on the ship, and they have lots of pitches throughout the cruise.

You’ll get announcements about sales over the ship’s loudspeaker. You’ll get flyers on your door telling you about offers. And the daily schedule will also highlight daily deals.

If you haven’t cruised before, the advertising can be surprising. Just be prepared.

You Can Still Find Quiet Spots on the Ship For all the thousands of people on a cruise ship, you might think that it would be shoulder to shoulder the entire trip.

It couldn’t be further from the truth. In general, cruise ships are no more crowded than a busy shopping center or restaurant. And that’s only certain places at certain times. For example, hit the casino at 10 p.m. and it will be buzzing with activity. But during the afternoon, it will be largely empty.

No matter what time of day, however, you’ll be able to find quiet spots on the ship. The promenades on lower decks tend to be less busy, as do the outdoor areas at the ends of the ship. The pool deck in general is also largely quiet in the evening and nighttime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Cruise

What do I do if I have an issue on the ship? Have bad service? Or maybe an incorrect charge to your account? Or anything else under the sun? Head to Guest Services.

Every ship will have a Guest Services desk that is staffed 24 hours a day. They can help with any issue you have, or at least point you in the right direction. Keep in mind that the lines can get long at the start and the end of the cruise (when people have the most questions about their accounts), so going during off-peak hours will ensure you don’t spend your vacation in line.

When should I schedule a flight back? As mentioned above, if you are flying home then we suggest not booking a flight before at least noon. Ships get in early, but it can take several hours to get thousands of passengers and their luggage off the ship and through customs. Add to that the time it takes to get to the airport, through security, and to your gate before boarding begins.

If you schedule for noon, there’s always the chance you may arrive earlier, but it’s not worth the risk. Having some extra time will make debarking the ship much less stressful instead of having to constantly check your watch.

Do I have to get a passport to sail? For many cruises, a passport is not actually required. Most of your standard cruises that begin and end at the same port — such as a five-day cruise from Miami to the Bahamas and back — are known as “closed loop cruises.” These trips fall under a provision that allows you to sail with just a birth certificate and a photo ID (ID is required for passengers 16 year or older).

Even so, it’s a good idea to get a passport. Passports can allow for faster re-entry into the U.S. but are also helpful in the event that you need to head home in the middle of the cruise. You’ll have to jump through bureaucratic hurdles if you need to fly home from a foreign country without a passport.

What’s the difference between cruise lines? Every cruise line does things a little differently, so no two lines are exactly the same. But in general, we find that the experience is largely the same when it comes to the mass-market lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and the like.

These lines have broad appeal, with ships that have something for everyone. There are kids clubs for the little ones, spas, casinos, pools, hot tubs, theaters, and more. Put frankly, if you can’t have a good time, it’s your own fault.

While each cruise line has their devotees, we think you’ll be happy with any of them.

For the differences between each line, you can read more here .

How do I pay my bill at the end of the trip? Ah, the bill. You get to have all the fun on a cruise… but then you have to pay.

When you check in for your cruise, you’ll use a credit card (or cash deposit) to attach to your account. Then, spending on the ship is done via your room keycard, which you use like a credit card on the ship.

At the end of the cruise, you’ll get an itemized bill. Assuming there are no issues, the amount will be charged to your credit card after the cruise. If you do have issues, be sure to see Guest Services before you leave.

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10 Best Cruises For First Time Cruisers – First Time Cruiser Guide

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Are you wondering what’s the best cruise for first time cruisers? Since cruises aren’t one size fits all, before booking your first cruise, it’s important to know what is the best cruise line for you.

There are many things to consider when you’re going on your first cruise, especially if you want to have the best cruise experience possible. As an experienced cruiser, I know first hand which cruise lines are best for first timers.

In this post, I share the 10 best cruises for first time cruisers.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

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Best Cruise Line for First Time Cruisers

1. royal caribbean – fun for all.

When it comes to recommendations of the best cruises for first-timers, it’s hard to beat a Royal Caribbean cruise. Royal Caribbean is a cruise line that is fun for all, which is perfect for a first time cruiser.

Although Royal Caribbean has many cruise ships of different sizes, the cruise line is known for making the largest and most extravagant ships at sea. RCL is constantly pushing the boundaries by creating the most innovative cruise ships.

When you go on a Royal Caribbean cruise , you can expect plenty of activities to keep you busy. On some Royal Caribbean cruise ships, you’ll find water slides, rock climbing walls, zip lines, surf simulators and even indoor sky diving.

Additionally, there are plenty of delicious dining options onboard, from casual to fine dining.

One of the big things that Royal Caribbean is known for is their entertainment. They have great comedians, musicians, Broadway style shows and even an aqua show on Oasis class ships .

From young families to older cruisers, Royal Caribbean can suit cruise passengers of all ages. Those who cruise with Royal Caribbean are often referred to as “young at heart”.

If you’re booking your first cruise, Royal Caribbean is a great option. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, you will eat well, have tons of fun and enjoy the amazing entertainment.

Related: What to Pack for a Royal Caribbean Cruise

2. Carnival – Budget Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line is a budget friendly cruise line that is known for being an absolute blast. It’s hard to find another cruise line that offers a better value vacation than Carnival.

If it’s your first time cruising, Carnival is a great way to explore beautiful destinations, while having tons of fun! Carnival cruises tend to have a party vibe and people who love to have a good time.

Onboard certain Carnival cruise ships, you’ll find fun water slides, which is one of the reasons Carnival cruises are so popular for families and kids . On select cruise ships, you’ll find trampoline parks, ropes courses and even a roller coaster on Mardi Gras and Carnival Celebration!

Carnival has plenty of casual food options, including Big Chicken, Guy’s Burger Joint and the BlueIguanna Cantina. If you prefer a sit down meal, Carnival has a main dining room which serves three meals a day.

Overall, Carnival is an affordable cruise line and is known for being extremely fun. If you’re trying to save money and cruise on a budget , Carnival is a great start for new cruisers.

Related: What to Pack for a Carnival Cruise

3. Celebrity Cruises – Modern Luxury

Celebrity is a considered to be a premium cruise line. Although it has coined the term “modern luxury”, which suits the cruise line well.

If you want a relaxing cruise vacation, with great service and food, Celebrity Cruises is the cruise line for you. Even though Celebrity is a popular, mainstream cruise line, it has some of the most stunning and luxurious looking ships at sea.

On Celebrity, the crew are very friendly and accommodating. This is one of the many reasons why so many cruisers love to travel with Celebrity.

A big part of cruising, is visiting the cruise ports. Sea days on Celebrity Cruise ships are equally enjoyable. Celebrity cruise ships are so modern and beautiful, the service is amazing and the food is fantastic.

When it comes to food and dining, it’s hard to beat what Celebrity has to offer. Celebrity’s buffet, casual restaurants, specialty restaurants and the popular Cafe Al Bacio are all quite good. Celebrity appeals to new cruisers who are foodies and appreciate a relaxed, yet upscale experience.

If you’re a first time cruiser looking for a relaxing cruise vacation with an all-inclusive feel, Celebrity is a great choice.

4. Princess Cruises – Service & Value

Princess Cruises has a good mix of service and value. First time cruisers can feel very comfortable on Princess cruise ships.

When you’re on a Princess cruise , you can expect top notch service, amazing food and beautiful ship designs. For those that appreciate travel, Princess has many great itineraries to choose from.

The crew onboard Princess are super friendly and always helpful. They always do their best to be accommodating to all of their passengers.

One of the cool things about Princess Cruises is their Medallion technology. The Princess Medallion is a quarter-size wearable device that adds convenience and enhances your cruise vacation.

With the Ocean Medallion technology, you can order food and drinks from your phone and the crew will be able to find you because of your Medallion.

On a Princess cruise you’ll enjoy good food, activities and diverse entertainment. New cruisers who like the idea of a traditional, yet innovative cruise line, will appreciate a Princess cruise.

Related: What to Pack for a Princess Cruise

5. Disney – Family Friendly

If you’re travelling with young kids or you’re a Disney lover, then you have to try a Disney cruise. Disney Cruise Line has Disney themed cruises that are fun for the whole family.

On Disney cruise ships, there are plenty of activities that are fun for the whole family. You’ll find water slides, fireworks at sea and character experiences where you can meet your favorite Disney characters.

One unique thing about Disney is that they have rotational dining. This means that you will eat at three different dining rooms which have different themes, throughout your cruise.

In the dining room, the menus have plenty of Disney references, which is a lot of fun. If you want to plan the ultimate family vacation, Disney Cruise Line is a good first cruise option.

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6. Norwegian Cruise Line – Freestyle Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line is for it’s laid back, “freestyle cruising”, which can be great for those new to cruising.

Norwegian also offers Free at Sea , a popular “free perks” promotion.

Unlike most other cruise lines, Norwegian doesn’t have cruise line dress codes and there are no set dining times.

On Norwegian cruises, there are multiple main dining rooms and restaurants, and you can eat when you want. While open dining is now available on many other cruise lines these days, there’s no question that dining is more relaxed on NCL.

If you’re considering a family cruise, Norwegian is a good choice .

Norwegian makes some of the largest and most fun ships at sea. The newest Norwegian cruise ships are filled with some of the most amazing attractions.

On certain Norwegian ships, you’ll find water slides, virtual reality, racing simulators, go-kart tracks and laser tag. These cruise ship activities are super fun, especially for kids, teens and young adults. However something to note, is that some have an additional charge.

Norwegian attracts adult cruisers who are easygoing, as well as those who like to party and have fun into the late night.

If you’re looking to have a fun vacation, cruising with Norwegian is a good idea for a first cruise experience.

Related: What’s Included on Norwegian Cruise Line and What Is Not

7. Holland America – Classic Cruising

Holland America is a great first cruise for mature travellers, who would enjoy a traditional and classic cruise experience.

Holland America has been around for 150 years. However, this traditional cruise line continues to innovate and provide an interesting and enriching cruise experience.

Highlights on Holland America include delicious food, top notch service and unique entertainment. On select ships, this includes the very popular Music Wall, the World Stage production shows and BBC Earth in Concert.

Holland America also offers a variety of itineraries. This includes Caribbean and Alaska cruises (popular with first time cruisers) as well as more exotic destinations.

HAL was also voted Best World Cruise Itinerary by Travel Weekly, Readers Choice Awards.

If you’re looking for a classic cruise experience, Holland America is a great choice for a first time cruiser.

8. MSC Cruises – Innovative Italian Cruise Line

MSC is an Italian cruise line that is known for having beautiful and innovative cruise ships. Since MSC is an Italian cruise line, the dining tends to be a little different from American cruise lines.

MSC cruises are often affordable, which attracts a lot of families and young adults. MSC might be one of the best values in cruising.

MSC is building more sustainable, as well as innovative, cruise ships. Their ships designs are incredibly beautiful. When you’re on an MSC ship, it really feels like you’re at a beautiful resort.

Onboard MSC Cruises, they have zip lines, water slides, ropes courses and gorgeous pool areas. If you’re cruising with your family, they will have tons of fun on an MSC cruise.

If you’re looking for an affordable, fun and different cruise experience, check out MSC Cruise line.

9. Virgin Voyages – Modern Cruising

Virgin Voyages is an adult only cruise line, that is known for being totally different from all other cruise lines. Everything from the pool areas, to the cabins and entertainment is totally unique on Virgin Voyages.

Some cool features Virgin Voyages is that they have group fitness classes, hammocks on the balconies and even a tattoo parlour on board their ships.

When you look a Virgin Voyages cruise, they look totally different from all other cruise ships. The front of the ships have a unique look that makes them stand out next to other ships.

The food on Virgin Voyages is known to be very tasty and the crew is super friendly.

If you’re looking to have fun and experience a cruise line like no other, Virgin Voyages is the right cruise line for you.

Related: Why Virgin Voyages Is The Ultimate Cruise Line For Young Adults

10. Viking – Destination Focused (Luxury)

For those who love to travel and aren’t sure if they’d like a cruise, Viking might be the cruise line for you.

In contrast to most cruise lines recommended for first timers, Viking cruise ships are smaller and more intimate. Viking ships are beautifully designed, with an elegant modern Scandinavian design.

The travel experience and destinations are the focus when sailing with Viking.

When you travel with Viking, your specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are all included. Additionally, beer and wine are included during both lunch and dinner.

Those who cruise with Viking tend to be mature travellers who value great service, excellent food and visiting beautiful destinations.

If you’re a first time cruiser, who wants the experience of a lifetime, Viking is the cruise line for you.

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Final Thoughts on best Cruises For First Time Cruisers

Well there it is, the best cruise lines for first time cruisers!

If you’re a first time cruiser, it’s important to know what each cruise line is known for and what they do best. The last thing you want, is to end up on a cruise line that doesn’t match your needs.

Each cruise line has it’s positives and negatives, so it’s important to choose the one that suits your style of cruising best.

In this post, I shared the best cruises for first time cruisers.

What cruise line do you think is best for first time cruisers? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

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21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

Cruising is easy. Or so cruisers will tell you.

For starters, you only have to unpack once, even as you travel from place to place. You also don't have to go hunting for a restaurant every night. There usually are a bunch just steps away from your cabin with tables waiting for you. You'll also have no trouble finding entertainment.

But even in its simplicity, cruising still can be daunting for a first-timer. What should you bring? What should you plan on doing in ports? What is the best way to book?

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

As the head of The Points Guy's cruise content team , I get these sorts of questions all the time.

This brings me to the tips below. If you've read this far, you are likely a first-time cruiser looking for advice for an upcoming trip, and that's exactly what this story is meant to offer. It contains my list of 21 ways to make your first sailing go more smoothly.

It's a list drawn not just from my own experience over 20-plus years of cruising but also the observations of more than 100 cruising fans who shared their tips with TPG in a lively conversation on the topic at the TPG Lounge on Facebook. (If you're not a member yet, we highly encourage you to join.)

Arrive at your departure port a day ahead of schedule

If you only follow one piece of advice in this story, it should be this one. It is the only way to ensure you won't miss your ship — something that happens to cruisers more often than you would think.

Many cruises depart in the afternoon, so it might seem just fine to fly or drive to a port on the morning of departure. But all it takes is a moderate flight delay or a pile-up on the highway to upset those plans. If you're delayed in your arrival at the port, the ship will not wait for you.

If you're traveling overseas for a cruise, we recommend traveling to the port two or even three days in advance. This isn't just so you don't miss the ship. It's also so you have some time to recover from jet lag. European cruises, in particular, can be port-intensive, with lots of touring, so you want to be refreshed and ready to hit the ground running right after the cruise begins.

Related: What happens if you miss your cruise ship

Pack your bathing suit in your carry-on

When you first arrive at a ship, before you even get on board, you'll likely be greeted by porters who will whisk away your luggage. It will be delivered to your room later in the day. This is a great convenience, as there's no need to haul your bags through the entire check-in progress. But it also means you might not have access to your luggage for many hours on your first day on board.

Be sure to pack anything you think you might need for these first hours of your cruise in your carry-on bag. This means things like medication, for sure, and a phone charger, but also a bathing suit, hat, sunscreen and other items that will let you head straight to the pool deck to start the fun.

Related: Use this packing list for your next cruise

Don't overpack

Use this strategy when packing for a cruise: Throw all the clothes you think you'll need on a cruise in a pile, and then take away half of them. You won't need them. Trust us.

Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage. If things get dirty, it's no problem. Many ships have launderettes on cabin decks where you can run a load or two of laundry every few days. If not, you can send laundry out to be cleaned on board. It'll usually come back in a day or two.

The extra cost of doing a few loads of laundry on a ship is a small price to pay for the freedom of not having to lug a giant suitcase around as you travel to and from your ship. Plus, you'll want to save room in your suitcase for all the little treasures you're going to find along the way.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry service

Bring your own drinks on board

Many first-time cruisers assume they can't bring their own drinks on board a ship. But many lines will allow this, usually with some limits. It's one way to save money when cruising, as drink prices on ships can be high.

Among the lines that will allow you to be your own bartender is Disney Cruise Line . Adults can bring up to two bottles of unopened wine or Champagne or six beers onto Disney ships at the start of a cruise and at every port of call. Note that these beverages must be packed in carry-on bags. At Royal Caribbean , the bring-your-own allowance is two bottles of wine or Champagne per cabin at boarding, plus up to a dozen standard cans, bottles or cartons of nonalcoholic drinks.

One caveat: Many lines levy a "corkage fee" if you want to bring your wine into an onboard restaurant. Be sure to read the rules for your line before you bring any drinks on board.

Related: Are drinks packages on cruise ships worth it? A line-by-line guide

Bring extra toiletries

Yes, you'll be able to find sunscreen, aspirin and Band-Aids on a cruise ship. But it'll cost you. Cruise lines know you're a captive audience and price their shipboard stores accordingly.

I have a small "go bag" of over-the-counter medicines that I throw into my suitcase for every cruise that contains everything from cold medicine to seasickness pills. I rarely use any of it. But I also never get hit with a crazy toiletries charge.

While we're on the topic of sundries, don't forget extra batteries for your camera if you are bringing one.

Related: The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

Bring these six other things, too

In addition to extra toiletries, cruising regulars often bring Clorox wipes or something similar to wipe down surfaces in their cabin upon arrival (and to bring along on shore excursions). I admit, I've never done this, though I know I should — if only to wipe off the remote control for the cabin TV.

Many cruisers also won't head to a ship without room freshener, a foldable shoe rack (which they hang in the cabin bathroom to store toiletries), a highlighter (to highlight activities on the daily planner) and a lanyard (to hold their cabin key card). I am, of course, too cool to ever put a key card lanyard around my neck, which means I lose my card once or twice on every trip. They always give me a new one at the front desk. My cruise team colleague Ashley Kosciolek also escews landyard-wearing on ships, but that didn't stop her from writing this wonderful guide to the coolest cruise lanyards around .

Some cruisers also swear by bringing magnets to ships to affix dinner invitations, excursion tickets and other important papers to their cabin walls. Walls on ships often are made with metal (even if they look like wood, thanks to faux wood veneers) and will hold a magnet. Some cruisers even bring magnets with hooks so they can hang up clothes and other items on their walls.

Related: 20 things you should bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

Skip the buffet on your first day on board

There's nothing more jammed than a cruise ship buffet on embarkation day. Everybody boarding heads straight up to it. To avoid the first-day buffet crowds, head to whatever secondary dining option is available. Sometimes, a ship will open one of its table-served eateries for lunch on embarkation day. It'll likely be much less crowded than the buffet.

Research ports in advance

There are some types of vacations — a beach trip, for instance — where you don't have to do much advance research. You just sort of show up. Most cruises aren't this way — at least if you want to get the most out of them. At the heart of most cruises are port calls that, in many cases, are very short — often just a few hours. You want to have a plan for what to do in these ports or you'll miss out on a big part of the cruising experience.

Once you know what ports you'll be visiting, research them as much as you can at travel sites such as The Points Guy. Here at TPG, we're starting to build out a series of home port and destination port guides for everywhere from PortMiami to Bora Bora .

Related: The ultimate guide to Caribbean cruising

Join a Facebook group for your line

Another great place to get ideas for what to do in ports and on ships — and what to bring on a cruise, for that matter — are the many private Facebook groups dedicated to particular lines. I belong to a number of them, including the Royal Caribbean Cruises group, the COPs (Cruisers Opinion Page) group and the Holland America Line Fans group. You'll find thousands of cruise fans at these pages who often are more than willing to answer questions about their favorite line, its ships, its itineraries and the destinations on the itineraries. I've met some wonderful people in these groups, some of whom have become my longtime friends on Facebook.

Sign up for private tours

Booking a shore excursion directly through your cruise line is easy. You just check a box on an online form before sailing or while on board, and — poof! — it's all arranged. But booking tours through your line isn't the only option, and it's not always the best option. In many cases, you can save a lot of money — and get a better touring experience — by booking shore excursions through independent tour operators in ports or a tour booking service such as Viator or ToursbyLocals .

Often, independent tours will be much more intimate than the tours offered directly through cruise lines. They might go to the same sites but in a small van instead of a big motorcoach. You might have just six or eight other people on a tour with you instead of nearly 40. If your group is big enough, you might even be able to book a private tour with an independent tour operator.

Related: The ultimate TPG guide to shore excursions

Independent tours also can take you to places that the cruise line-organized tours don't. Plus, they often come with excellent service. ToursByLocals has staff on hand around-the-clock to respond to questions, and — for those worried about missing your ship — they offer a return-to-ship guarantee with every tour.

Sign up for activities in advance or soon after boarding

Some lines will let you sign up for shows, tours and other activities (including meals at specialty restaurants) in advance of sailing using online portals. If you want to be sure that you get a seat for a specific show on a specific night, or a specific tour or restaurant reservation time, it's a good idea to do this. It's not uncommon with some ships to find that some shows, tours and restaurant reservation times book up in advance.

If you don't sign up for activities in advance, a backup strategy is to do so just after you board a vessel. That said, whether you need to race to sign up for activities at the start of a voyage depends a lot on which ship you are on. I am more careful about signing up for a lot of things in advance when I am sailing on a giant ship such as Royal Caribbean's record-breaking Wonder of the Seas where there are thousands of other passengers competing for the choicest reservations.

Related: 12 giant ships that are the best for fun

Don't feel like you have to do it all

While we're on the topic of signing up for activities, note that it's OK if you miss a few things. You don't have to do it all. In fact, you should force yourself to try to not do it all. Remember, you're on vacation. Relax. Take some downtime. Sit on your balcony, if you have one, and just stare out at the ocean for a couple of hours. You won't regret it.

Always carry the ship's contact information with you

When going ashore, always bring the ship's contact information with you. Those details are usually printed in the newsletter that's delivered to your cabin each night. If something goes wrong when you're away from the ship, you'll want to get in contact with the cruise line right away.

Keep your phone in airplane mode

Some of the biggest cruise ship horror stories you'll find on the internet are tales of cruising newbies who racked up thousands of dollars in cellphone charges while on ships. This can happen when you leave your phone turned on and, say, watch videos on the internet. Many phone plans — even international plans — do not include talking, texting and data on cruise ships, and you'll pay exorbitant roaming rates for such services that will show up weeks later on your phone bill.

There are ways to make calls and access the internet from ships without spending a boatload of money. You can buy a Wi-Fi package, for instance, that will let you make FaceTime calls and stream videos (on some ships) over Wi-Fi without using phone data.

Some phone companies have cruise-specific plans you can buy in advance of a voyage. But I personally never go that route. I keep it simple. I just put my phone in airplane mode the moment I step on board a ship and never switch it back on. I then turn on the phone's Wi-Fi, buy a Wi-Fi package and do all my calling, texting and internet surfing over Wi-Fi. That way, there's no way that I can be surprised by an unexpected charge.

Download the cruise app

A growing number of lines now have apps that you can download to your smartphone in advance of sailing. The apps vary in what they offer, but many will show you a daily list of activities and all of the things that you have reserved. Many also will let you make restaurant reservations and book shore excursions and other activities, and a few will let you order drinks and other items to wherever you happen to be standing. That's pretty cool, right? The best part: The apps will work on board even if you don't pay for a Wi-Fi package.

Related: This cruise app lets you order pizza anywhere on board

Use a travel agent to book

Given the complexity of booking a cruise — there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process, trust us — we recommend that you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you arrange things. A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. The agent also can help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

In addition, travel agents often can you extra onboard credit and other perks that you might not be able to get by booking directly with a line.

Related: Why you should always use a travel agent to book a cruise

Consider travel insurance

It's not always smooth seas when it comes to cruising — or any sort of travel. We hate to even bring it up, but you might need to cancel your cruise in advance due to the sudden onset of an illness. Or, maybe you'll fall ill during the cruise and need emergency medical attention. Maybe your flight to your ship gets canceled and you miss the vessel's departure. These sorts of things can happen to cruisers, and they're all the sort of situations where you might benefit from having travel insurance. Here's a comparison of the top travel insurance providers and information about Cancel for Any Reason add-ons .

Related: The TPG guide to travel insurance for cruises

Don't book a cabin near an elevator

Not every cabin on a ship is created equal. When choosing a room on your first cruise, you might want to stay away from those near elevators and just above nightclubs and other late-night venues. They can sometimes be noisy. Cabins just below the pool deck and near the anchor also can be problematic as well as cabins near casinos.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

Use a points card for onboard spending

You saw this one coming, no? Given TPG's origins as a points and miles website , we'd be remiss if we didn't remind you to maximize your credit card points while making purchases on ships. The way to do this is to tie a credit card that offers extra points for travel purchases to your onboard account. This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit). There's also the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on dining.

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

Don't tip twice for drinks and spa treatments

Most cruise ships now automatically add a gratuity to bar bills, often in the amount of 18% to 20% of the total. Such automatic gratuities also are becoming more common in ship spas. But many first-time cruisers don't know this and write in a hefty tip at the "additional tip" line on bills at cruise ship bars and spas. Be sure to ask if a gratuity already has been included before adding another 15% or 20% to the total. Otherwise, you may end up tipping twice.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

Use points to get to your cruise

Using points and miles to pay for a cruise doesn't always make sense , as it often requires a huge number of them to secure a cabin. But that doesn't mean you can't save big time by booking your flights to and from a ship using points and miles .

You'll find plenty of stories here at The Points Guy about how to, say, pay the equivalent of $1,330 in points for a flight that cost $16,000 , or book a $27,000 around-the-world trip for just $168 in out-of-pocket costs . Scroll around a little, and you may never pay cash for a flight to a cruise ship again.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Why cruising is the best vacation

First time cruiser tips, introducing your best vacation ever, wander the world over.

Snorkeling in the Caribbean , dog sledding in Alaska , or castle-hopping in Europe . We visit over 270 destinations — take your pick.

Nearly Everything Is Included

Comfy stays, big-time thrills, delicious meals and non-stop entertainment — it’s an unbelievable vacation value all for one price.

Adventure for All Ages

Our ships  have plenty for everyone. From play spaces and an award-winning youth program  to Vegas-style casinos  and nonstop nightlife .

Convenience Mode Set to Max

Sit back and let us do the driving. We’ll take care of everything from table to stateroom with our best-in-class service , so you can focus on memory making.

taKE YOUR FIRST CRUISE WITH THE BEST

There’s a reason Royal Caribbean® is the cruise line voted Best Overall for 21 years running by Travel Weekly readers . Actually, there are several— starting with the biggest fleet of the most innovative, adventure-filled ships at sea. And award-winning private destinations, like Perfect Day at CocoCay, voted Best Private Island for the past four years.

GAMECHANGING FLEET

Set sail on the boldest ships in the world, like The Icon of Vacations the new Icon of the Seas℠  and The World’s Biggest Weekend, Utopia of the Seas℠ .

AWARD-WINNING PRIVATE DESTINATIONS

Go for endless thrills and more ways to chill at Perfect Day at CocoCay  in The Bahamas. Or escape to Labadee  for adrenaline-amping adventures in paradise.

THIS IS ALL THE VACATIONS

This is all-in, all-out, and everything you could want to do, in more than  270 destinations   worldwide. This is not a vacation — this is all the vacations.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN YOUR CRUISE

First time cruisers often want to know what’s included in their fare. and on royal caribbean®, the answer is a lot. delicious dining options  for every meal — and snack — of the day, and plenty of variety for everyone. entertainment  like nothing you’ve ever seen on stage, ice, water and in the air. our award-winning adventure ocean℠  kids’ program. plus record-breaking and heart-racing slides, rides and activities you’ll only find on royal caribbean..

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THRILLS, CHILLS, SHOWS AND WOAHS

EXPLORE MORE

TAKE YOUR TASTEBUDS FOR A TWIRL

AWARD-WINNING YOUTH PROGRAM

MEMORY-MAXING PRIVATE DESTINATIONS

PLANNING TIPS FOR FIRST TIME CRUISERS

Planning a cruise is half the fun and it couldn’t be easier. With over 270 destinations at your fingertips, your first decision is: Where to? Pick a place to explore and begin browsing itineraries that conveniently sail from major ports worldwide . Then check out our ships to choose one that fits your adventure style — and don’t forget the deals.

Pick a Port & Go

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HOW TO PAY FOR YOUR CRUISE

Great news! Paying for a cruise vacation has never been easier, with a variety of convenient options available. So you can pick the payment method that works best for you and start your destressing before you’ve finished checking out.

Select Affirm  during checkout for instant financing options to cruise now and pay later— even after your vacation has ended.

scheduled payments

Pay little by little, or submit a lump sum for the balance by the final payment date. The choice is yours.

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Pay the full balance at the time of booking and start packing. Then all that’s left to do is enjoy your upcoming adventure.

COURTESY HOLD

Need time to think it over? We’ll hold your reservation— including any promotions— for up to two days*.

*The 2-day hold expires at 11 p.m. EST/EDT on the second day after booking.

WHAT COMES AFTER YOU BOOK Another great thing about cruising is you can customize your vacation as much— or as little— as you want. So if you  booked your first cruise and you can’t wait to start planning, we have plenty of tips for first time cruisers and tools you can use to make your adventure even more memorable. And if you just want to relax until it’s time for your best vacation ever, that’s cool too.

✔ Planning shore excursions

✔ Travel documents

✔ Beverage , dining & wifi packages

✔ Travel insurance

✔ Celebrating special occasions

✔ Hotel & Airfare

✔ The Royal Caribbean App

✔ Tips for an easy boarding day

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12 best cruises for beginners, from budget to luxury liners

• Cruise Advice

21 Cruise Tips From First-Timers

Orlando Martinez

• December 1, 2020

Over the years, 100s of listeners have written in to the show to share first-time cruise tips. Taken from their experience, advice, and mishaps, we’ve compiled this list to make sure you have the best sailing ever.

21 First Time Cruise Tips

1. use a travel agent..

Let’s start with a basic cruise tip for beginners. Yes, you can book a cruise online, or by calling the cruise line on the phone. But for first-timers, it’s usually a good idea to book your first couple of sailings with a travel agent.

They’ll help you find the cruise line, ship, and itinerary that are right for you. Every cruise line caters to a specific type of traveler, and if you’re sailing with a group of younger friends looking to party, you don’t want to end up on a ship that caters to mature adults where the average age is 65 and bars shut down well before midnight.

READ: 5 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

While it might be tempting to book a cruise based on price alone, a cruise-specialized travel agent can help you sort through the offers and guide you in making the right choice. Some agents even have exclusive promotions and pricing, meaning you could get a better deal through an agent than you’ll find on a website.

Typically, travel agents don’t charge extra for their services. But even if there’s a small service fee, it’s usually worth it for access to their expertise, special offers, and to have an advocate in your corner if something goes wrong.

2. Put down a refundable deposit.

In recent years, most cruise lines have started offering “non-refundable deposit” fares in exchange for a (sometimes substantially) lower price. And that means exactly what you think it does…. once you pay your deposit, the line keeps your money, no matter what. You might be able to cancel or change your sail date (often with a penalty), but your deposit will be applied to your next cruise and will not be returned to you.

While saving some money is appealing, reserving your cruise with a non-refundable deposit can be an unsettling and risky proposition for first-time cruisers. For peace of mind and the most flexibility, it’s best to go with a standard, refundable deposit — especially for your first cruise or two.

3. Buy a travel insurance policy.

If you need to cancel your cruise, have to change your sail date, or fall ill while on the trip, you’re likely looking at significant out-of-pocket expenses.

For a small investment, a travel insurance policy can substantially reduce or eliminate those expenses and give you peace of mind.

A medical evacuation from a ship can cost well over $10,000, so God forbid you or a member of your family gets ill on a cruise, the travel insurance policy will pay for itself hundreds of times over.

Even if your boss cancels your vacation time, your spouse loses their job, or you get into a car accident on the way to the airport, your travel insurance policy — which can cost less than $50 per person — will reimburse you for cancellation or change fees.

4. The internet is additional.

These days, most hotels include some sort of free internet in your room rate or resort fee, so first-time cruisers might expect the same thing on a cruise ship, which is, basically, a floating resort. But with some exceptions, getting online on a cruise ship will cost you. Not surprisingly, cruise ships rely on satellites for communication, so costs are higher and bandwidth is somewhat limited. Therefore, if you want to make a connection, you’ll have to pony up.

In the last five years, most cruise lines have transitioned from per-minute charges to a flat daily fee that varies depending on what online services you want to access. If you’re just looking to share updates from your vacation on social media, you’ll pay a lot less per day than someone who wants to stream Netflix or join a Zoom call back to the office.

If you’re dead set against paying for the internet, look for booking promotions that will give you a free internet package, or look for free, secure wifi hotspots in port.

5. Pick your stateroom carefully.

This is probably one of the most important tips on this list, and something that most first-time cruisers learn the hard way: stateroom location really matters.

You don’t want a room above or below the ship’s dance club or piano bar — especially if you turn in early — as the party in those venues tends to go late into the night. If you like to sleep late, you’ll want to avoid rooms below the galley, as the kitchen staff arrives very early in the morning to move equipment to prepare for breakfast service.

If you’re prone to motion sickness (or even think you might be), pick a room that’s as close to the middle of the ship as possible and on a lower deck… cabins on either end of the ship and on higher decks are more prone to feeling the motion of the ocean.

6. Upgrades aren’t necessarily a good thing.

If you get a call from your cruise line or travel agent a few weeks before sailing offering a free (or very, very cheap) upgrade, proceed with caution. “That sounds great,” you might think. “What could be the problem?”

Often, cruise lines will dangle upgrades in front of unwary passengers to fill less desirable rooms. These “upgrades” could be in a poor location (see tip #5), offer an obstructed view, or have a weird room configuration.

If you’ve booked an inside stateroom and get a free upgrade to an oceanview room, even one with an obstructed view, you might be happy with it. But if you’re in a nice, mid-ship balcony and get a free “upgrade” to a junior suite where the balcony is almost completely blocked by a lifeboat, chances are you’ll be less satisfied.

So if you get that call, ask lots of questions, including verifying the specific room number you’re being upgraded to, and check the deck plan before you agree to anything.

7. You don’t need to pack a tux in the Caribbean.

Unless you’re sailing on Cunard or a fancy luxury line like Seabourn or Regent Seven Seas, it’s not necessary to wear a tuxedo or a ball gown on formal night for a Caribbean cruise.

Pressed slacks and a button-down shirt will usually be acceptable for men (and a tie never hurts), while women can wear a nice dress or pantsuit. While some passengers will dress to the nines and take formal portraits, you’re under no pressure to walk around like a penguin on a tropical vacation.

Attire can be a bit more formal in Europe and some other destinations, but even there, a suit and tie are generally sufficient unless you’re on a luxury line.

8. Some amenities are only available to suite guests.

These days, cruising isn’t nearly as classist as portrayed in the movie Titanic . However, passengers who have paid for a suite often have access to some additional amenities or areas on the ship.

To start, suite guests often get a special check-in area and priority embarkation. In their suite, they’ll likely have upgraded bath amenities, fruit baskets, champagne, and the like; and they may have access to a dedicated concierge for planning and reservations. On some ships, those traveling in a suite may have access to a private restaurant, lounge, or pool area. The good news is these amenities are usually secluded from regular passengers, so you may never even know they exist on the ship, and therefore most likely won’t feel left out.

9. You can request a table or seating switch in the dining room on embarkation day.

If you wanted early dining but were assigned to late, or you’ve been seated at a table for eight or ten when you wanted romantic dinners for two, it’s possible to request that your seating or table be switched on embarkation day.

The ship’s maitre’d (the crew member responsible for dining arrangements), is usually available in one of the restaurants on the first day of the cruise to take these types of requests from passengers.

While nothing can be guaranteed, they’ll do their best to accommodate your preferences. And, if you are at a larger table and don’t hit it off with your table mates after dinner on the first night, ask to speak to the maitre’d as you’re leaving the dining room or at guest services. They’ll gladly accommodate a request to switch tables for the remainder of the cruise.

10. Not all cruise lines serve the same soda.

Coke vs. Pepsi is a battle for the ages (and for the taste buds of carbonated soft drink lovers), but it’s also a battle that plays out on the decks of your favorite cruise ship. There’s little worse for a dedicated Coke drinker than to be stuck for a whole week on a ship with only Pepsi products as far as the eye can see. And for someone who has mastered the Pepsi challenge, seeing that red Coke can on the bar can be maddening.

RELATED: Carnival Changes from Coke to Pepsi

It’s true… each cruise line serves only one brand of cola, and it’s “Cruiser Beware” to pick the right ship. Tempers flared a few years ago when Carnival Cruise Line switched from Coke to Pepsi, with loyal Coke drinkers threatening to jump ship over the news.

If your cruise line doesn’t carry your favorite soda, you’ll most likely be able to bring one 12 pack (cans only) aboard per person at the start of the cruise. Or, get used to drinking other beverages for the duration of your voyage.

11. You can pay extra to go to a nicer restaurant.

Your cruise fare includes meals in the main dining room, buffet, and, most likely, a few other locations where you can grab a sandwich, a burger, or a slice of pizza. But what some first-time cruisers don’t realize is that they have the option of going to specialty restaurants that will serve higher quality food — usually with better service — at an additional charge.

Even the smallest cruise ships have at least one steakhouse or a gourmet restaurant that takes reservations. Larger cruise ships may have six or seven extra-charge dining experiences.

REVIEW: Carnival Steakhouse Review + Menu

Typically, these restaurants charge a flat fee per person, and you can order whatever you’d like off a menu. Some venues will be a la carte, where you pay per menu item, but that’s the exception rather than the rule.

That being said, the food in the main dining room is usually high quality, too, and you’re under no obligation to patronize these specialty dining options. They’re just a nice choice for celebrating a special occasion on board, or if you want a different type of cuisine than is being served in the main dining room. Common specialty dining venues include French bistros, Japanese Hibachi, family-style Italian, and Brazilian or American steakhouses.

12. Longer cruises have older guests.

As a general rule, the longer the cruise, the older the average age of passengers onboard.

Three and four-night cruises tend to attract younger cruisers who want to party. Seven-night voyages are ideal for families who have a week’s vacation to spend together. Older retirees gravitate to 10 to 21-night sailings because they don’t have to worry about taking time off of work, they have the disposable income to pay for them, and a longer cruise means more enjoyment and relaxation and fewer travel hassles.

It can be shocking to a honeymooning couple on their dream cruise through the Panama Canal, anxious to connect with travelers their own age, to find they’re the youngest passengers on the ship by 30 years.

13. Get the drink package.

If you’re expecting to have more than two or three drinks each day of your cruise, you might save money by purchasing the beverage package. Though the cost varies by cruise line, expect to pay between $50 and $70 per day for unlimited (or close to it) beer, wine, cocktails, and spirits.

While that may seem like a lot of money, once you realize a cocktail or mixed drink can run upwards of $12-$15, a glass of wine runs about $10, and a bottle of beer comes in at around $7 (more for imports), it can add up quickly.

REVIEW: Carnival Cruise CHEERS! Package

Often, you can get a drink package included in your cruise, as it’s one of the most popular promotions used to incentivize bookings. But even if you pay out of pocket, your wallet will thank you later.

Keep in mind that there’s no sharing of drink packages, and everyone in your stateroom who is 21+ must purchase a drink package if one person in the room does. If grandma is a teetotaler, she’ll still have to pony up for a package if you’re sharing a cabin with her. So make sure you figure that into your cost when doing the math to see if it’s worth it for you.

14. You can order everything on the menu.

While most first-time cruisers would expect to be able to eat as much as they want at the cruise ship buffet, it comes as a surprise to many that dinner in the main dining room can offer the same experience.

Virtually every cruise line will allow you to order multiple appetizers, entrées, and desserts in the dining room. Do multiple dishes catch your eye? Try them all. Big of fan of lobster tails or prime rib? Ask for a second or third portion. No one is judging… you’re on vacation.

You can usually even request an entrée-sized serving of a particular appetizer that you enjoy. Try everything… but be sure to leave room for dessert, and then sample several of those, too.

15. Drinks aren’t free in the casino.

Gamblers know that in most casinos on land, you can sit down at a slot machine or table, start to play, and enjoy a free drink (or three). First-time cruisers are often surprised to find the same isn’t true on a cruise ship.

Unless you’ve sailed and played on a particular cruise line many times and have earned many points on your players club card (read as “lost lots of money”), you’ll be paying for drinks as you gamble.

On a ship, it would be too easy for a cruiser to sit down, play one or two hands of blackjack, and then head to the pool with your free drink. Therefore, the alcohol doesn’t flow as freely on ships as it does on land where you’re a more captive customer. Just one more reason to get the drink package (see tip #13).

16. Shop on the last day for ‘deals.’

On the last sea day of your cruise, the ship’s stores will usually hold a big “clearance sale,” flea market-style, in one of the dining rooms or on tables in the atrium and public areas. First-time cruisers will be attracted to these events, thinking there must be really good deals. And there may be, though it’s definitely a buyer-beware situation.

Especially on bigger ticket items (cameras, jewelry) make sure you know what the item retails for back home, and that the quality is comparable to the item you’d buy on land. And remember, if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is.

One occasion where you might find some really good clothing and souvenir items is at the end of a cruising season… think just before the ship leaves the Caribbean to go to Alaska, or when a ship moves from the Mediterranean to go to the Caribbean in October or November.

The crew will deeply discount t-shirts, magnets, and seasonal clothing with the old/current destination or ports on them. They’ll be bringing on new stock for the new destinations, and there’s really no room to store the old merchandise, so they want to get rid of it and the pricing will be very attractive.

17. You will be shamed if you throw your towel on a chair and walk away.

Lounge chairs next to the pool are prime real estate on a cruise ship. These in-demand spots are usually claimed first thing in the morning, often by creatures known as “chair hogs.” Don’t worry, there aren’t actual hogs roaming the ship looking to lay out in the sun. Chair hog is the unpleasant moniker given to cruisers who leave a towel on a strategically located lounger in the early morning hours and disappear, often not returning for hours.

READ: 5 Ways to Fight Deck Chair Hogs

While some first-time cruisers may think emulating the behavior of the chair hogs sounds smart, easy, and low risk, it’s not. First of all, it’s extremely rude. Second of all, it’s risky, because if a crew member or another cruiser sees you “claim” a lounge chair and walk away, your towel will probably be removed and you may be publicly shamed. Don’t start your first cruise off on the wrong foot by being a “chair hog.” If the loungers by the pool are full, check other areas of the top decks. There’s usually a hidden spot or two with just as many loungers, lots of space, and, most importantly, plenty of sun.

18. People party hard the night before a sea day.

On a cruise ship, a sea day is the equivalent of a weekend day back home… the perfect chance to sleep in and maybe even enjoy breakfast (or lunch, if you sleep late enough) in bed.

That makes the evening before a sea day the equivalent of a Friday night — time to party! You’ll find the casino extra crowded, the bars standing room only, and the dance club overflowing all night. And the good times won’t wrap up early, either.

While bars in most cities on land have to close at 2 a.m. or so, cruise ships sail in international waters and have no such restrictions. Therefore, the party can (and will) go well into the wee hours of the morning.

Ever been in a packed club doing the electric slide at 4 a.m.? Well, you might have the chance on your first cruise.

19. There is a running track on the ship.

Every cruise ship we can think of has a running or jogging track, typically on the top deck, but occasionally on or near the promenade deck.

The distance varies depending on the size of the ship, but you can generally get at least a quarter-mile in for one lap around, and much more than that on bigger vessels. Every ship we’ve seen posts signage showing the distance for a full lap, but if you don’t see one, ask at guest services.

20. Leaving the ship can be confusing — stay onboard as late as you can or leave very early.

Disembarkation day, aka the end of the cruise, can be confusing and stressful. Depending on the cruise line, you’ll either be assigned to or can choose an approximate time you want to disembark.

If you can handle your own luggage, we recommend the “self-assist” option, which means you’ll be among the first guests off the ship once it receives clearance from customs. The only drawback is you’ll have to carry your own luggage down the gangway and through the terminal.

If self-assist isn’t an option for you, you’ll be put into one of the other groups. Each of these groups takes longer to disembark as you have to wait for your luggage to be carted off the ship and set up at baggage claim in the terminal. If you need luggage assistance or just aren’t in a hurry to get off the ship, try to get into the latest group possible.

You’ll still have to leave your stateroom by 8 a.m., but you can have a leisurely breakfast and enjoy your last few hours on the ship without feeling rushed. If you’re flying home, be sure to book a flight later in the day if you want to take advantage of this option.

21. They do a nice job accommodating allergies.

Cruise lines, as a general rule, do a pretty good job accommodating food allergies. If you need to eat gluten-free or low sodium or have a shellfish allergy (or whatever), let the cruise line know at the time of booking. Then, during your first visit to both the buffet and main dining room, ask to speak to the chef to discuss your needs.

The culinary team will go over your options, may give you a special menu to choose the next day’s meals, or even prepare custom-made dishes that meet your requirements.

In Conclusion…

Having a fun and successful first cruise comes down to research and planning.

Cruisers armed with knowledge and information tend to enjoy themselves more and avoid problems encountered by those who haven’t planned ahead. Simply by reading this article, you’re now more prepared than most newbies. Congratulations — and enjoy your cruise.

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Best Cruise Tips for First-Timers

By Carnival Cruise Line

Are you taking a cruise for the first time? We’ve got you covered. We’ve gathered the 10 most important tips to know before for your first cruise with Carnival. Read on, and you won’t feel like a newbie for long with the following cruise advice for first-timers.

1. What to Wear

One of the most important first cruise tips is knowing what to wear . If you’re cruising to the Caribbean , of course, bring your best beachwear for fun in the sun. But you’ll also need to prepare for some surprises. Don’t get caught without the following, no matter where your cruise destination is:

• Always pack some gear for cool and rainy weather, such as a hoodie or light jacket.
• Wear water shoes or non-slip boat shoes with traction for getting safely around the ship.
• Comfortable walking shoes are ideal for shore excursions; leave high heels and fancy footwear in the stateroom.
• Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunglasses or a hat

2. Know the Best Staterooms

Every stateroom is the best stateroom , but for your first-time cruise, it helps to know what’s right for your own needs. You’ll likely prefer one of the five types of staterooms . Here’s the quick lowdown on each:

• Balcony staterooms: Rooms with small outdoor balconies for invigorating sea breezes and perpetual views. They’re perfect for cruises to Alaska so you won’t miss any unexpected wildlife sightings.
• Interior staterooms: The most affordable rooms on the ship, designed for guests who love a little quiet cocoon to curl up in after a fun-filled day.
• Ocean view staterooms : Rooms with portholes or windows to gaze out at the ocean.
• Suite staterooms : Larger rooms for family cruises so you can all stretch out and relax together.
• Specialty staterooms: In select ships, you’ll find rooms with themed settings, such as the Family Harbor staterooms when traveling with kids, and the Cloud 9 Spa staterooms for couples or solo guests who want a pampering cruise.

3. Surprising Conveniences to Pack

One of the first things that guests want to pack is a camera. While DSLRs provide great, high quality photos, we recommend that beginner photographers take an inexpensive compact digital camera or they stick to their phone. This way, they can still enjoy their cruise and take great photos of their trip .

Here are some other helpful things that you should pack for your trip:

• Outlet adapters increase the number of plugs you’ll have in your stateroom.
• Dry bags are ideal for shore excursions.
• A sandless beach towel for beach excursions (and they fold down small).
• A lanyard to hold your identification and room essentials while on board and on shore.
• Biodegradable sunscreen is required for all water-based shore excursions, to protect the coral reefs and your skin.

4. How to Reserve Anything

Veteran cruisers know to make important reservations and bookings before they ever get on the ship. Make it a priority beforehand or in your first few hours on board to do the following:

• Babysitters: Grab spots in kids clubs if you’re traveling with family. For example, if you want some time at the onboard Casino , make it a priority to book Camp Ocean for your 2- to 11-year-olds, Circle “C” for your 12- to 14-year-olds and Club O2 for your 15- to 17-year-olds.
• Spas: Book your hair appointments at the onboard salon , time in the onboard medi-spa and a soak in Cloud 9 Spa’s Hydrotherapy Pool .
• Tours: If you haven’t already pre-booked your port activities, that’ll also take priority. Some shore excursions are more popular than others, and spots quickly fill up.
• Specialty Dining: Booking one-of-a-kind dining experiences is essential when going on a cruise. From Cucina Del Capitano to Steakhouse , there are plenty of unique experiences that will make your voyage unforgettable. However, it is important to make reservations to these restaurants quickly, as spots are limited and they fill up fast!

5. Indulge in Cuisine

One of the best things about a cruise is the choice of foods , both on and off the ship. A cruise is the best place to feed your hankering for deluxe hamburgers and your curiosity for exotic dishes and one-of-a-kind drinks .

Always check your booked ship to see your dining options. For example, enjoy premium cuts of beef paired with the Steakhouse wine list, which is recognized by the distinguished Wine Spectator Magazine’s Award of Excellence in 2019 .

For every port you visit, indulge in a local culinary treat or tour.

For example, cruise to Ketchikan and watch lumberjacks compete in axe throwing competitions, while you feast on all of the dungeness crab that you can eat! You can even head to Mexico’s port of Yucatán (Progreso) to brush up on your food photography skills while experiencing fine Mexican cooking and losing yourself in the local culture.

6. Know Your Ship

One of the best first-time cruise tips is learning that you can access a layout of the ships. Research your ship and enjoy virtual tours and view deck plans. Download the deck plans to a PDF file, print it out and review it before your cruise.

For ships you’ve already booked, the Carnival Hub App is a great tool that allows you to access your ship’s map. You can even get a copy of your ship’s map at guest services on embarkation day!

Although nothing takes the place of real-time experience, at least you’ll have your bearings before embarking.

7. How to Pay and Tip On Board

Carnival uses cashless cruising. All of your onboard expenses are charged to your own Sail & Sign Card . Just present the card when purchasing anything on board. You can check the balance of your Sail & Sign Card accounts at onboard kiosks or through the interactive TV system in your stateroom.

As for gratuities, those can be paid in advance through the hub app, while fine dining gratuities are paid onboard. With that said, there are indeed ATMs on board.

8. Know the Lingo

Before embarking (stepping on board) your ship, know a few terms to make your first-time cruise more comfortable. Here are a few choice words and terms to keep tucked in your back pocket during your first trip:

• Cruise casual: This is tasteful attire, which you can wear most nights during dinner. It includes slacks, khakis, jeans (but no cut-offs), long dress shorts and collared sports shirts for men. For women, it means casual dresses and skirts, summer dresses, blouses, pants, capri pants, dressy shorts and dress jeans (no cut-offs here either).
• Cruise elegant: This is evening wear for one or two nights of dinner on your cruise, specifically for when you’re eating in the main dining room . Men are asked to wear dress shirts and dress trousers, and a sports coat is suggested. Ladies dress in pantsuits, cocktail dresses, and elegant skirts and blouses. You may also have a formal night on board, where more formal wear is required.
• Early seating/late seating: This is an assigned schedule and seating for passengers in the main dining room.
• Open seating: This means there’s no fixed schedule and no seating arrangements.
• Stateroom steward: This is the person responsible for keeping your stateroom in order with your requests and amenities .
• Lido deck: This is the most popular deck on the ship because it’s where the outdoor pools are located.
• Upper deck: This is the deck that’s typically closest to the entertainment , fun and other outdoor deck areas.

9. Take Advantage of the Nightlife

Besides the onboard casinos, the variety of adult nightlife you’ll find on any ship rivals the most glittering nights you’d have during a vacation on land. Always check which events your ship will offer on board, but here are some guest favorites:

• The Punchliner Comedy Club : Here’s the best place for laugh after laugh.
• Dive-In Movies: Snuggle up on the poolside and watch the (movie) stars.
• Stage Shows and Playlist Productions : Enjoy musical productions on the high seas.
• Live Music : Come here to party along with live performances and jams on the lido deck.
• Piano Bar : This bar is for guests who love cocktails and singing for a good time.
• Nightclub : Here’s the spot for dancing to the hottest hits.

10. Find Some Peace and Quiet

Scope out the little nooks and crannies on your particular ship where you can get away for some quiet time:

• Serenity Adult-Only Retreat : Avoid the hoopla and come to this 18 and over lounging area to find complete peace on board.
• Cloud 9 Spa : Imagine being pampered in a spa while traveling to Bermuda . You have the choice of the hair and beauty salon , Medi-spa , facial treatments and massage . For men, there are men’s services on board for a ship-shape shave and more.
• The Library : Our ships come with a place for all the great literature you need to enrich your mind.
• Loft 19™ , only on Mardi Gras ™ : You’ll find a secluded retreat modeled after the world’s finest resorts.
• Make It With Michaels® : Find your creative streak with a calm, relaxed craft class.
• Art seminars and art exhibitions : Enjoy a cultivated good time while talking to art experts.
• Beauty treatments for your teens: ZSPA is a place where teens can get facials, mani/pedis, and new-found self-esteem. ZSPA is for teens only and it’s a place where they can feel pampered.

It’s perfectly okay to ask questions and learn as you go. There’s a lot of information for first-time cruisers to know , but cruise enthusiasts and crew members love to use their knowledge to guide other guests. After all, each of them started out with a first cruise. You’ll always feel comfortable on a Carnival cruise where you can relax, and even take some insider notes to share with others.

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