Cruise Tips
Practical, hard-won advice for first-timers and platinum cruisers alike.
Smooth sailing, from booking to disembarkation
We've collected the tips that actually matter — the ones seasoned cruisers wish someone had told them on their first sailing. Each phase of your voyage has its own tricks, from scoring the right cabin to beating the tender queue.
Before You Book
Book in the sweet spot
6–18 months out gets you the best cabin choice; last-minute (under 90 days) can score deep discounts if you're flexible.
Mind the total price
Advertised fares are per person, double occupancy. Budget for port fees, taxes, gratuities and drinks.
Choose your port wisely
Driving to a home port instead of flying can save hundreds — and one less flight means one less thing to go wrong.
Ship size matters
Big ships = more onboard wow; small ships = more ports and intimacy. Pick the vacation you actually want.
Pre-Cruise Prep
Check documents early
Passports should be valid 6+ months beyond your sail date. Some itineraries need visas — verify now, not at the pier.
Download apps offline
Cruise line apps work onboard without a data package — great for messaging family and checking daily schedules.
Pre-book excursions
Popular shore excursions sell out before sailing. Book online in advance, but compare with independent operators too.
Use our packing list
Our interactive packing checklist is tailored to your climate and cruise type — nothing forgotten, nothing overpacked.
Life Onboard
Dine off-peak
Main dining rooms at 7pm mean queues. Shift to the second seating or specialty venues for calmer dinners.
Claim deck chairs politely
Grab your spot early on sea days, but respect chair-saving rules — most lines clear unattended seats after 30 minutes.
Book the spa on port days
Treatments are heavily discounted while the ship is docked — same massage, half the price.
Ration the Wi-Fi
Buy one package and share updates in batches. Or go dark — the ocean is the better entertainment anyway.
Ports & Excursions
Explore on your own
In walkable ports like Cozumel or Dubrovnik, a taxi and a map beats a $99 bus tour. Research before you sail.
Watch the clock
'All aboard' is often 30–60 minutes before departure. Set two alarms — the ship will leave without you.
Skip the first shops
The stores right at the pier have cruise-line rent to pay. Walk two blocks inland for better prices.
Tender early
Ports that use small boats ashore get long queues mid-morning. Catch one of the first tenders and beat the crowds.
Ready to put these tips to work?
Browse current deals or find your destination — your best cruise is waiting.