Planning a cruise can be exciting (and a little overwhelming), but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, these tips, personal stories, and a bit of humor will help you make the most of your trip.
Choosing the Best Travel Dates
No Kids? Choose Wisely
Avoid cruising in June, July, or early August unless you want to spend your vacation dodging kids running wild on deck. Trust me, those months are prime family vacation time, and prices are sky-high.
Spring break (hello, March!) is also a no-go unless you're in the mood for loud college parties and packed pools. When I was in college, I cruised during spring break—it was messy but fun. If you’re all about the party life, go for it; otherwise, skip it!
Hurricane Season
Technically, hurricane season runs from June to November, but the real troublemakers show up mid-September through mid-October. Storm paths can lead to itineraries changing last minute. Captains won’t steer into a hurricane (thankfully!), but the waters can get rough, so be prepared for some rocking and rolling.
Booking Last-Minute? Check Excursions First
If you’re booking less than four months before departure, look at what excursions are still available. I’ve seen people book a cruise only to realize their dream activities were sold out—don’t let that happen to you!
Excursion Tips: Make the Most of Your Time Ashore
Cruise excursions can be the highlight of your trip, but planning them wisely is key. Here’s how to get it right:
Cruise Line Excursions vs. DIY
Go with the Cruise Line: If you’re booking an excursion, I highly recommend sticking with the cruise line’s options. Why? If your excursion runs late, the ship will wait for you. Independent tours are great for saving money, but if you miss the ship, it’s up to you to find your way to the next port.
Private Beach Clubs: In the Caribbean, private beach club excursions can be a great idea, but ensure your transportation is reliable and plan to return at least an hour before departure.
The Golden Rule for Excursions
4 Hours or Less: For shorter excursions, choose one destination to focus on. Jamming too many stops into a short trip often means you’ll spend most of the time on a bus, with only a few rushed minutes at each site.
More Than 4 Hours: Longer excursions can include multiple stops without feeling rushed, as there’s usually enough time to properly explore each location. Prioritize quality over quantity—enjoying one or two spots fully is much better than barely seeing five.
Check the Duration and Distance: Always factor in travel time to and from the ship. If the excursion requires a long drive, ensure there’s enough time to enjoy the destination.
Time Zone Trickery
Ship Time vs. Port Time: Remember that cruise excursions operate on ship time, which may differ from local port time. Set alarms accordingly to avoid confusion, especially if your phone automatically updates to the local time zone.
Picking the Perfect Cabin
Cruise cabins come in four main types: Interior, Ocean View, Balcony, and Suites. Here’s my take on each:
Interior Cabins
Budget-friendly: This is the way to go if you’re cruising on a budget.
My Tip: If you’re traveling with kids, check the deck plan for the more spacious interiors. Some cabins are so tiny, you’ll feel like you’re playing Tetris just trying to move around.
Ocean View Cabins
Perks: You get a window—yay!
Downside: They’re often on lower decks, which can mean more noise from dining areas or casinos. Personally, I’m not a fan. I like my peace and quiet, not random foot traffic outside my door.
Balcony Cabins
My Favorite: Bigger space, private balcony, and a sofa bed for extra guests.
When Worth It: If you’re cruising Alaska, the Norwegian fjords, or the Mediterranean, a balcony is 100% worth it. When I cruised Alaska, I spent hours on the balcony whale-watching—it was magical. But for Caribbean cruises? You’re mostly looking at open water, so maybe save that money for a drink package instead.
Suites
The VIP Treatment: Suites are the best cabins, with priority boarding, exclusive dining areas, and room for the whole family. If you’re already considering multiple balcony rooms for a big group, check suite prices—you might score extra perks for a similar cost.
Cabin Location Tips
If you’re prone to motion sickness, go for midship on a middle deck. It’s the most stable spot.
Left (Port) vs. Right (Starboard): The best side of the ship depends on your itinerary. For scenic routes like Alaska or Norway, research which side faces the coastline for better views. For open-water cruises, the only time you will have a view is when arriving at the port, in this case, it might be beneficial to pick a cabin on the left (port) side of the ship.
Light sleeper? Avoid cabins near elevators, casinos, theaters, or dining areas. Trust me, a good night’s sleep is worth the extra planning.
Tips for Motion Sickness
Pick the Right Cabin
Pay extra to choose your location. For first-timers or anyone who gets queasy, midship and middle-deck cabins are your best bet. If those are booked, aim for the aft (back) over the forward (front). The front is like a wave-crashing rollercoaster—not fun!
Stock Up on Supplies
Dramamine: My go-to! I swear by taking a ginger chew in the morning and a non-drowsy tablet at night. It doesn’t stop the rocking, but it keeps the nausea at bay.
Nausea Relief Wristbands: These little bands use acupressure to help relieve nausea. They have a plastic stud that applies pressure to the P6 (Neiguan) point on your wrist, which has been shown to help reduce feelings of motion sickness. I’ll admit they didn’t work for me, but my friend swears by them, so they might work for you!
Motion Sickness Patches: These patches (usually scopolamine) are worn behind your ear and release medication gradually into your system. They block signals from your inner ear to your brain that trigger nausea. You usually apply one a few hours before sailing, and they last for about three days. They’re small, discreet, and a lifesaver for many. (Tip: Some people experience dry mouth or drowsiness, so stay hydrated!)
Lavender Oil: Apply a little behind your ears or inhale it—it’s surprisingly soothing. The calming aroma can help ease nausea, especially during mild rocking.
Packing Essentials
Bring a Power Strip (Cruise-Friendly): Cabins often have limited outlets, so a power strip or USB hub can be a lifesaver. Just make sure it’s cruise-approved (no surge protectors allowed).
Pack a Small Day Bag: A lightweight backpack or tote is great for excursions or carrying essentials like sunscreen, water, and your cruise card around the ship.
Magnetic Hooks: Cabin walls are metal, and magnetic hooks can give you extra hanging space for towels, hats, or swimsuits.
Pack Smart
Bring your shampoo and conditioner. Trust me, the ship’s “2-in-1” body wash won’t cut it, and onboard stores charge a fortune for basic toiletries.
Food (and Sneaky) Tips
Free Food Galore
Cruises have tons of free dining options—seriously, don’t waste money on paid restaurants unless it’s a special occasion.
Specialty Restaurants: If you want to try a specialty restaurant, book it as soon as you board—or even before your cruise. Prime slots fill up fast!
Room Service: Many cruise lines offer free or low-cost room service. It’s a cozy way to enjoy breakfast on your balcony or a late-night snack.
Cruising is one of the most fun and stress-free ways to travel. You get to see multiple destinations, eat to your heart’s content, and relax all at once. I hope these tips (and a few laughs) help you plan your next adventure. If you’re ready to book but don’t know where to start, let me know—I’d love to help you plan the cruise of your dreams!
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