Did you realize that there is a cruise to suit almost everyone? Whether you’re looking for adventure in the sun, activities for your family, or the chance to experience new cultures, there is a cruise ship waiting for you. With so many options available, it can be hard to decide which one is best. If you are planning on your first ever cruise, this article will discuss 6 Things You Need To Know Before Your First Cruise.
What Is A Cruise?
A cruise is a vacation onboard a ship that travels to different destinations along the coast. There are cruise ships, ocean liners, ferry boats, and more. A cruise usually lasts from three days up to several weeks, depending on how much time you have and where you want to go. There are cruises that don’t stop at any ports, and others that make multiple stops during the journey to allow passengers to visit different locations.
A cruise can be an individual vacation or part of a family tour alongside other travelers. These sea trips are very popular with families because there’s so much entertainment on board including swimming pools, water slides, gyms, spas, etc.
- There are Loads You Can Learn Online
This should be your first port of call (pardon the pun) when researching where you can go and how you should prepare. There are many specialist websites, articles, and blogs that will help raise your awareness of the issues associated with cruising.
Besides reading peoples’ travel blogs, you can view lots of company websites. If you wish to charter the Raja Ampat yacht, you can learn about cruises from Bali, Lombok, and Gili. If you’re wanting adventure, comfort, and luxury you can discover private charters and activities such as free diving liveaboards, scuba diving, and dive courses.
- Pack Appropriately For The Weather
If it is going to be cold, bring a heavy coat and gloves and if it’s going to rain make sure you have an umbrella or a raincoat, etc. You should be aware that if there are tropical storms or hurricanes anticipated during your time onboard, evacuation might need to happen. This is why it’s important to consult the weather reports before you book!
Try not to overpack as this will take up too much room in your suitcase. Keep everything smartly packed with your clothing for each day in separate bags, just in anything gets wet or dirty. A spare set of clothing would come in handy for this eventuality.
- Be Prepared For Seasickness
This is a form of motion sickness caused by the movement of the boat, and it can be quite severe and unpleasant. There can also be additional factors, such as an unfamiliar environment with strange smells and sounds. It can be difficult for people who do not live near water to get accustomed to these things quickly. In fact, seasickness can happen to anyone, even those who are used to being on boats all their lives. Needless to say, you should avoid things like fishing or diving while you are feeling unwell.
Fortunately, there are ways you can combat seasickness before setting foot on your cruise ship. It’s best to stay active, eating healthy (not greasy) foods. Take sea bands or other medication (also ginger candles and bracelets) if necessary. It is also important to remember that seasickness is normal, and it doesn’t mean your entire trip is going to be a disaster.
- Bring Entertainment With You
If you’re traveling as part of a group or with children, keep in mind that most cruise lines don’t allow more than two people per room under 18 years old. This means if there are four kids traveling together, they may need their own cabin.
All parents will appreciate that if your kids are happy, you’ll be happy. Having books, games, and magazines on board will help you (and them!) to pass the time – and don’t forget your charger! You’ll also want a power bank if it is important for you to stay connected with friends and family back home.
- Plan Well In Advance
Bookings
If possible, book your cruise during the low season, when prices are lower and crowds are less likely to be present. In terms of booking your airfare, the earlier you book the better. It is advisable to book at least six months ahead of time to get a good price on the travel arrangements. People often wait until the last minute, which can lead to spending way too much money on their trip. There could even be an issue with getting airline tickets altogether because they are sold out.
Excursions
You should find out everything there is to know about excursions before cruising. There can be literally hundreds of different options available through your cruise line, and it’s best to sort it all ahead of time. Even if you don’t book your excursions in advance, knowing what’s available and how much it costs will be useful information.
Vaccinations
If any vaccinations are required for the ports that you’re visiting, it’s important to take care of those well in advance. Not all vaccinations require a prescription, but they do need an order from a medical professional. It may even be necessary to undergo blood tests before getting vaccinated, depending on which ones are needed. The cruise line itself should have up-to-date information about the specific locations’ health standards.
- Get Your Essentials Together
Sort your passport and visa, and don’t forget to pack enough cash in case of emergencies. Most ships don’t take credit cards, and you need to be prepared for tipping your cabin stewards and waiters/waitresses at restaurants. Once you’ve got all your stuff together, remember to pack light to avoid paying excess baggage fees.
Once you’ve covered all 6 points discussed in this article, you’ll be well-placed to find the perfect cruise – then you can sit back and look forward to the trip of a lifetime. There will be memories made that will be treasured by both yourself and your family for many years to come.
