Top 10 tips for first time cruisers

Going on your first cruise and feeling a bit at sea? (see what we did there?) Don’t stress. These ten top tips will help make it smooth sailing.

Find out what’s included - and what’s not - well ahead of time

Food? Drink? Wi-Fi? Tips? Some cruises throw it all in, others not so much. Double-check what’s part of your deal beforehand so you’re not hit with unexpected charges – it will make everything so much more relaxing once on board. Most cruise lines have strict rules around BYO, so check with your HOT consultant about what you are allowed to take on board.

Excursions: book smart

Popular shore excursions can sell out fast, so lock in any must-dos well before you set sail (especially those ones that mean you skip long queues at big-ticket attractions) But also, don’t overschedule yourself – sometimes the best days are the ones spent wandering the port (or ship!) with an ice cream in hand. Just make sure you’re back well in time for the ship’s departure.

Get app-happy

Most cruise lines have phone apps that act like your onboard bestie –  very helpful for daily schedules, restaurant bookings and other important information. But they can also contain discounts you’re going to want to know about sooner rather than later. Download the one for your cruise line as soon as you've booked, so you can orient yourself ahead of time and make the best use of those pre-departure discounts.

Don’t skimp on insurance

Yes, insurance contracts are boring. But also essential. If something goes not-quite-to-plan, like missing the ship at a port (it happens!) – comprehensive travel insurance with cruise cover will be your best friend. Unfortunately onboard medical care isn't free, so you want to know you’ll be okay if something happens.

Check the dress code situation.

Some cruises are comes-as-you-like casual, others might expect slightly more formal attire in certain restaurants or at some events. Some offer themed nights like Pirate Nights on Disney or White Night on Azamara and Orange Night on Holland America. Make sure you check beforehand and pack accordingly.

Embark like a pro

Flying to your embarkation point? Arrive a day early if you can – the last thing you want is the stress of an unexpected flight delay. It’s also good to know you may not be able to access your room until the afternoon and your luggage might take a while to show up in your cabin on Day 1, so pack a day bag with your togs, sunnies, and anything else you want straight away. Prescription meds should always be in your carry on.

Be prepared

Even if you’ve never been seasick before, the ocean might have plans for you. Pack ginger tablets, sea bands or motion sickness pills, just in case. HOT tip: book a room midship on a lower deck – it’s the most stable spot.

Plug in, the smart way

Cabin power points can be limited – regular cruisers know this to be true. A multi-board (without surge protection – some lines ban those) is a total lifesaver for charging multiple devices at the same time. And could save huge fights if you’re travelling as a family. Most ships have US/UK/European power points so an adapter is a must. USB ports are common on newer ships, but always take your own cables and adapters.

Beware the hidden data charges

Mobile roaming has some extra tricks when you’re cruising. For example, you might have a great daily phone plan with your provider for when you’re in Aussie, but when you’re between New Zealand and Australian shores you’re technically in international waters on Maritime roaming, so not covered. To avoid unexpected bills, switch off data roaming before you leave port. When you are ashore look out for free Wi-Fi spots.

Expect a little holiday padding

Let’s be honest – with endless food choices, cocktails by the pool, midnight pizza and dessert bars, you’ll probably gain a kilo or two. It’s something many cruisers talk about. But that’s part of the fun, right? Bring stretchy pants, take the stairs instead of elevators when you can, use the amazing gyms or workout classes onboard and go with the flow.