There’s no feeling like getting on board a cruise ship for the first time. After the long queues for the check-in desk and the stress of taking coats and belts off through security, now is the time to relax for several days or possibly weeks travelling the world.
However, even with all of the chances for rest and relaxation that lie in front of them, passengers should still follow one tip that I have learned from travelling on more than 10 cruises.
Depending on what time they get on board, passengers may be told that their cabin is still being thoroughly cleaned and, therefore, will be inaccessible for their first few hours on board the ship.
As a result, it is vital that passengers remember to pack smart before heading to the cruise terminal. Most of their luggage will be checked in, much like they’d encounter at the airport, but anything necessary such as sunglasses, medication, and a phone charger should be kept in a smaller bag that tourists can carry on board themselves.
However, to prevent having to haul a massive suitcase around the ship on arguably its busiest day, it is a good idea to choose a small bag that can be carried over their shoulder or on their back.
Whilst waiting for their cabin to be cleared, many passengers do exactly the same thing – heading straight up to the cruise ship’s main buffet for a bite to eat.
The large dining area is the ideal place to quickly access a hearty meal, but cruise passengers looking for somewhere a little quieter to enjoy lunch should avoid it and go for a stroll around the ship.
Even on embarkation day, when most passengers have yet to discover them, many of the vessel’s dining rooms and speciality restaurants are open for business. As a result, passengers can get plenty of attention and some particularly impressive meals, without having any risk of a stampede.
Even with a full stomache, tourists should not lose their adventurous streak, continuing to have a general stroll around the ship. In addition to burning off a few calories, doing so will help tourists find some of the best attractions on board.
Whilst almost all cruisers will expect to find a swimming pool and theatre on board, many of the latest vessels have all manner of cinemas, basketball courts, and even funfair rides.
These attractions are often some of the busiest parts of the ship, particularly when travelling on sea days, tourists who find them first can easily give themselves plenty of time for some fun before setting sail.
Finally, perhaps the most important thing that all passengers must do during their first few hours on board a cruise ship is the muster training. This is a presentation that shows passengers exactly what they need to do if an emergency occurs on board.
In the past, most cruise lines required all passengers to head to their muster station at the same time with their life jackets. However, since Covid, passengers are often able to watch a safety briefing video on their phone or via the cabin TV and checking in at their designated muster station.
Whilst passengers may think that they can get away without watching the short video, staff members will keep a record of all the guests who haven’t done their training and are legally unable to leave the port until everyone has finished.