Prepare for your cruise!
Research your itinerary and ports of call to plan excursions.
*You’ll want to book excursions as soon as you’re able as they do sell out. Be aware of any weight limitations that the excursion company may have. We’ll have another post coming discussing the pros and cons of booking through the cruise line vs. third party.
Pack appropriate clothing and gear
*From someone who always overpacks, I’m not going to tell you not to. I like to plan my outfits day by day so I can plan based on my activities for the day. I find that keeps me organized, but I do suggest packing comfy clothes! Do pack a jacket because regardless of time of year, it WILL get windy.
Get travel documents in order (passport, visas, etc.)
*Even if you aren’t traveling out of the country, it’s best to have an active passport. Also, if you only have a few months left on your passport before it needs to be renewed, we suggest getting that renewed well before your trip. If you are visiting multiple countries, optionally, we also like to carry a little bit of that countries currency, just in case.
Check for any health requirements or vaccinations
*Some countries require vaccinations against different diseases before they’ll allow you to enter. As of right now, some itineraries are still requiring proof of covid vaccine. Most of those requirements have been lifted, though.
Make dining reservations ahead of time
*Just like with the excursions, it’s always best to make your dining reservations once the app/website allows. This is not a requirement but we find having a reservation results in a lower (or no) wait time. We would also do this for Anytime dining. Who wants to wait in line to eat when you’re hungry?
Budget for on-board expenses
*I always say I’m not going to spend money on board, and without fail, there’s always something on my folio at the end. If you haven’t purchased a beverage package, be aware of the drinks you purchase on board. We try to allot an amount for drinks, souvenirs, or specialty dining we may want to do.
Consider purchasing travel insurance
*We will always, always, always purchase travel insurance from now on. Prior to 2020, it was not a priority for me but we had a hard lesson learned that year with regard to cancelled travel plans and refunds (Or lack thereof). I will always recommend either insurance through the cruise line or a third party. Research coverage and pick the policy that works best for you.
Familiarize yourself with the ship's layout
*We get really excited for our cruises, so we almost always look through the deck plan and get to know the layout before we go. This also helps with getting turned around which has happened to me more times than I’d like to admit.
Take advantage of pre-cruise online check-in
*Like I said, we get REALLY excited for our cruises. Our recommendations are to download the app for your cruise/line. The app will allow you to book your dining, any onboard services, give you a daily calendar of events, and when the time comes, allow you to check in. We also recommend joining the Facebook group for your specific cruise. There is almost always already a group someone has created in anticipation. It’s a great place to ask questions, meet your fellow cruises and see their questions and responses as well.
Confirm travel details, such as flight and transfer information.
*As soon as you book your cruise, start researching those flights. I like to use Google flights because they have a price alert option. If you need to book 2 seats, then we suggest calling the airline directly. Some airlines will have you purchase two seats, and then refund you the extra one afterwards. It just takes a bit of research.
