Going on a cruise is actually really great. What other vacation can you have stunning water views literally all around you and put your feet up to have (almost) everything included in your stay? Booking a cruise vacation really offers an experience that no other vacation can but while it’s relaxing and wonderful in itself, there are few things to keep in mind so that your first time cruising is a positive experience overall.
First-Time Cruise Tips You Need
While these tips are important, they’re also totally obtainable as well! Before you step on board the ship, make certain that you’re prepared.
Don’t “Think” You Won’t’ Get Motion Sickness
This isn’t a mistake that you want to make when you’re stuck in the middle of the ocean on a swaying ship. Just make a conscious decision to understand that you’re going to have it and then if you don’t, it’ll be a pleasant surprise. (and if you happen to board the ship without any Dramamine in hand, don’t fret. You can go to the customer service area and they’ll have some for you!)
Have Every Adult Over The Age Of 21 Bring On A Bottle Of Wine
Because, well, why not? Cruise lines allow each person of the legal drinking age to pack on a bottle of wine. Even if someone in your party doesn’t drink, they can still help your cause and bring one on board.
The biggest tip to remember though is to bring on wine bottles that have twist-off caps or you’re going to be paying a surcharge of $15 per wine bottle to have the cruise staff uncork them for you.
Your Passport Will Work As A Legal Document, But So Will Your Original Birth Certificate As Well (Maybe)
There is an exception to this tip, so pay attention. The ONLY way that your birth certificate will work for you to board the cruise is if you’re traveling to certain countries (check with your cruise carrier) AND if you’re leaving and returning to the same port. Before attempting, ALWAYS contact the cruise carrier directly to find out what areas of the world allow a birth certificate to be used and do this before booking any cruise.
Tipping Is Automatically Added To Your Bill
While you can absolutely tip away on the cruise during the days that you’re at sea, just know that at the end of your cruise, you’re going to see a “gratuities” charge for your services as well. This charge varies but it’s typically anywhere between $40-$90 and it all depends on the length of your trip.
And yes, this fee is charged to everyone in your statement, children included. (infants might be excluded but this is a question to ask the cruise line directly) So if there are 5 people in your party, that tip fee will be charged to each and every one of those 5 people. This is important to be aware of so it helps you stay on budget!
Cruise Food Is Plentiful And Can Accommodate Special Needs And Requests
If you or someone in your party has an allergy that they need to avoid, just let your waiter know at dinner at they’ll accommodate. Please keep in mind that this is really only true if you go to the main dining hall for dinner but it really isn’t a big concern for the lunch buffet either.
There are a ton of food options on the cruise so there’s no way that you’ll ever have to worry about being hungry. Just be aware of the food items as you put them on your plate (don’t worry, they’re labeled well!) and enjoy staying on course with your allergy needs without worry.
As you can see, there’s a reason that people love to go on cruises! From exciting onboard activities to amazing food, there is always something to see, do, and eat! This cruise tips will help make certain that a great time is had by all!
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