Things to Avoid on a Cruise That Will Leave You Disappointed

Cruises can be a fantastic way to relax, explore new destinations, and create unforgettable memories. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are certain things to avoid on a cruise that will negatively affect your cruise experience. To ensure a smooth sailing adventure for everyone, I will cover a few key things to avoid on a cruise so that you’re not left disappointed.

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We often hear about what to do and what to expect when taking a cruise, however, we seldom hear what not to do on a cruise. As an avid cruise addict who has been on more cruises than I can count, I’ve learned a few things to avoid. In this post I’ll share everything that I’ve learned not to do which will help you have a more enjoyable cruise experience. Let’s get started!

Best Cruise Lines For Solo Cruisers

Booking The Wrong Cruise Line

Booking the wrong cruise line can significantly impact your overall experience and enjoyment of your vacation. It is crucial to carefully research and select a cruise line that aligns with your preferences and expectations. By booking the wrong cruise line, you may encounter issues such as limited activities, unsatisfactory amenities, a mismatch in onboard atmosphere, or inadequate service, which will definitely leave you disappointe3d.

1. Save Time: Checking in online allows you to skip long lines at the cruise terminal. You can complete the necessary documentation, provide personal information, and upload required documents from the comfort of your own home. This helps expedite the check-in process and reduces wait times at the port.
2. Convenience: Online check-in provides a convenient way to handle administrative tasks before your cruise. You can provide emergency contact information, set up onboard accounts, and even book dining reservations or onboard activities in advance. This streamlines your arrival at the ship and allows you to start enjoying your vacation sooner.
3. Access to Important Information: During the online check-in process, you’ll receive important information about your cruise itinerary, boarding times, designated embarkation location, and any updates or changes to your sailing. This ensures that you have all the necessary details and can plan accordingly.
4. Efficient Boarding Process: Checking in online speeds up the boarding process at the cruise terminal. Once you arrive at the port, you can proceed directly to the designated check-in line for guests who have completed online check-in.

Overall, checking in for your cruise online saves time, provides convenience, and allows for a smoother boarding process. It helps you start your cruise vacation on a positive note, knowing that you’ve taken care of the necessary pre-cruise tasks in advance.

Avoid Waiting To Book Extras On Your Cruise, You’ll Be Disappointed

Waiting until I was onboard the ship to book my shore excursions was a huge disappointment and one of the mistakes that many inexperienced cruisers make. This is one mistake that you’ll want to avoid. It can be tempting to wait until you’re on board to book add-ons such as specialty dining, spa treatments, or shore excursions, however, there are a few reasons why it’s better to book in advance:

1. Limited Availability: Booking extras in advance ensures that you won’t miss out on popular activities or experiences. Some cruise ships have limited capacity for certain activities or reservations, and they can fill up quickly. By waiting, you run the risk of not being able to secure a spot or having limited options to choose from.
2. Discounts and Deals: Cruise lines often offer special deals or discounted prices for early booking of extras. By waiting until you’re on the ship, you may miss out on these promotions and end up paying more for the same experience.
3. Planning and Convenience: Pre-booking extras allows you to plan your itinerary and ensure a more seamless experience on your cruise. Instead of worrying about availability or waiting in line to make reservations, you can have peace of mind knowing that everything is arranged beforehand.
4. Customization: Booking in advance gives you the advantage of customizing your experience to your preferences. You can choose specific dining times, spa treatments, or excursions that align with your interests and schedule.

Missing out on a popular shore excursion is definitely one thing that will dissappoint you. Booking ahead of your cruise will ensure that you don’t miss out!

Booking Excursions Every Day Are One Thing You Should Avoid On A Cruise

While it’s good to book extras in advance, it’s also essential to strike a balance. Don’t feel overwhelmed by planning every minute detail of your cruise. Allow yourself some flexibility and leave room for spontaneous activities or relaxation.

Don’t Forget To Research Cruise Ports In Advance

Researching your cruise ports ahead of time allows you to make the most of your limited time ashore. Here are a few key reasons why researching cruise ports in advance is crucial:

1. Optimize Your Itinerary: By researching cruise ports beforehand, you can plan your activities and maximize your time at each destination. You can identify must-visit attractions, historical sites, local markets, or cultural events that align with your interests.
2. Safety and Security: Researching cruise ports in advance allows you to gather valuable information about the safety and security of each destination. This is especially true if you are a solo cruiser and exploring the ports alone. You can explore factors like crime rates, local customs and traditions, and any potential safety concerns.
3. Understanding Local Culture: Each cruise port has its unique culture, traditions, and customs. By researching in advance, you can familiarize yourself with the local etiquette, greetings, dress codes, and acceptable behaviors. This helps you show respect to the local community and avoid unintentional cultural misunderstandings or offenses.
4. Finding the Best Activities and Excursions: Researching cruise ports beforehand allows you to discover the best activities and excursions available at each destination. You can find reputable tour operators, compare prices, read reviews, and book popular experiences in advance.
5. Discovering Local Cuisine and Shopping: Researching cruise ports in advance helps you identify local culinary specialties and popular dining spots. You can find recommendations for restaurants, cafes, or street food markets that offer authentic local cuisine. Additionally, you can explore the shopping scene at each destination, discovering unique souvenirs, handicrafts, or locally made products.
6. Navigating Transportation: Researching cruise ports allows you to understand the transportation options available at each destination. You can gather information about public transportation systems, taxi services, or private tours. Knowing these details in advance helps you plan your transportation needs and avoid any last-minute hassles or confusion.

Packing the Wrong Items in Your Cruise Carry-On

When you arrive at the cruise port, you will have to check-in your luggage. This will be delivered to your cabin within a few hours of embarking.

Must Have Carry-On Essentials For The 1st Time Cruiser

It is important to have the proper items packed in your cruise carry-on so that you don’t waste any time once onboard the ship. To make the most of your first day onboard, you will want to ensure that the following have been packed in your carry-on luggage:

• bathing suit
• beach cover-up
• flip flops
• hat
• sun screen
• change of clothes for dinner
• medication
• important paperwork, inlcuding your passport

Neglecting to Explore The Ship

Exploring the ship is an integral part of the cruise experience, and it offers several benefits. Aside from familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings, there are many other reasons why you should explore the ship as soon as you board the ship:

1. Familiarize Yourself: By taking the time to navigate the different decks, you’ll know where to find important areas like restaurants, lounges, pools, theaters, and the spa, making it easier to navigate during your cruise.
2. Discover Hidden Gems: You may stumble upon quiet corners, serene deck areas, or intimate lounges that offer a more peaceful ambiance away from the crowds.
3. Enjoy Onboard Activities: Cruise ships are packed with onboard activities and entertainment. By exploring the ship, you can discover the various entertainment venues, such as theaters, casinos, or nightclubs, where you can enjoy live shows, musical performances, or even dance the night away.
4. Dining Options: Cruise ships usually offer a variety of dining venues, including specialty restaurants, buffets, and casual dining options. Exploring the ship allows you to find these dining establishments.
5. Scenic Views: Many cruise ships have observation decks or outdoor areas that provide breathtaking views of the ocean and the destinations you’ll be visiting. By exploring the ship, you can find these vantage points and soak in the beauty of the surroundings while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
6. Connect With Fellow Passengers: Exploring the ship can be a sociable experience, as you’ll encounter other passengers along the way. It’s an opportunity to strike up conversations, make new friends, and learn about people from diverse backgrounds. This is especially important when you’re cruising by yourself.

Overpacking

It’s tempting to bring your entire wardrobe, but overpacking can cause unnecessary stress and inconvenience. Most cruise ships offer laundry services, so there’s no need to pack clothes for every single day. Stick to essentials and pack wisely to free up space in your cabin. Having your cabin cluttered is one thing you want to avoid on a cruise.

Neglecting Personal Hygiene

When cruising, it’s difficult to eat healthy and stay fit. It’s important to remember that good personal hygiene is essential when sharing common areas with other passengers on a cruise ship in order to avoid becoming ill. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially before dining.

Overindulging in Alcohol

Cruise ships often have a wide variety of bars and lounges, but it’s crucial to drink responsibly. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to disruptive behavior, accidents, or even worse. Pace yourself and enjoy the cruise experience without letting alcohol overshadow your time on board.

Not Making Friends With The Crew

Getting to know the crew on a cruise is one of the most important recommendations I can make when taking a cruise. It doesn’t matter how good the cruise is, it’s the crew members who can make or break your cruise experience.

1. Personalized Service: Building a friendly relationship with the crew members can result in personalized and exceptional service throughout your cruise. When the crew knows your preferences, they can anticipate your needs and provide tailored recommendations and assistance.
2. Insider Tips and Recommendations: The crew members have insider knowledge about the ship and the destinations you’ll visit. They can offer valuable tips and recommendations for onboard activities, hidden gems at each port, and local experiences that may not be mentioned in guidebooks.
3. Cultural Exchange: The crew members often come from various backgrounds and cultures, providing you with an opportunity to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges. Through conversations, you can learn about their home countries, traditions, and customs, gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures.
4. Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Getting to know the crew can offer you a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes operations of the cruise ship. They can share interesting stories, facts, and insights about the ship’s operations, daily routines, and life at sea.
5. Access to Special Events or Activities: Some crew members may organize special events or activities exclusively for passengers they’ve developed a rapport with. By getting to know the crew, you may have the opportunity to participate in unique experiences or attend events that are not available to all passengers.

Just One Tip: Remember to be respectful of the crew’s time and duties, as they are working to ensure the smooth operation of the ship and the comfort of all passengers.

Taking The Elevator

It’s no secret that many over-indulge when on a cruise. One of the best ways to counter the extra calories is by taking the stairs rather than waiting for an elevator. Exercise is only one of the benefits of climbing the stairs, there are many more benefits as well:

1. Exercise and Fitness: Climbing stairs helps to improve cardiovascular health, increase stamina, and burn calories. It is a convenient and accessible way to stay active during your vacation.
2. Avoiding Crowds: Elevators on cruise ships can get crowded, especially during peak times such as embarkation, disembarkation, and meal times. By taking the stairs, you can avoid the long wait times and get to your desired destination quickly and efficiently.
3. Enjoy the Views: Cruise ships often have stunning interior designs and atriums, with glass elevators providing panoramic views of the ship and the sea. By taking the stairs, you have the opportunity to explore these areas more closely and enjoy the architectural beauty and scenic views while ascending or descending.
4. Convenience: Depending on the layout of the ship and the location of your cabin or desired destination, taking the stairs can sometimes be more convenient and time-saving than waiting for an elevator.
5. Energy Conservation: Cruise ships require a significant amount of energy to operate, and elevators contribute to this energy consumption. By choosing to take the stairs, you can help reduce the environmental impact of the ship and contribute to sustainable travel practices.

While taking the stairs on a cruise ship has its benefits, it’s essential to consider your physical capabilities and any mobility restrictions. If you have mobility issues or are unable to climb stairs comfortably, it’s best to use the elevator for your convenience and safety.

Don’t Forget Turn Your Phone Off When On A Cruise

Keeping your phone on airplane mode helps you avoid costly roaming charges. Cruise ships often operate in international waters, which means your phone may connect to expensive satellite networks. By switching to airplane mode, you prevent any unintentional data usage or incoming/outgoing calls that could result in hefty bills.

Moreover, being on airplane mode allows you to disconnect from the outside world and fully immerse yourself in the cruise experience. Instead of being constantly glued to your phone, you can focus on the incredible views, engage in activities, and interact with fellow passengers. It promotes relaxation and helps you truly unwind.

Not Taking Lots of Pictures

Whenever travelling, the number one thing you want to do is to preserve the memories. This can be accomplished by taking lots of pictures:

1. Capture Memories: Taking lots of pictures allows you to capture the memories and preserve them for years to come. You can document the beautiful scenery, the onboard activities, the delicious meals, and the fun times with friends and family.
2. Share with Others: Sharing your cruise experience through pictures allows you to share the excitement and joy with family and friends who may not have been able to join you on the trip. It can also inspire others to consider taking a cruise vacation.
3. Create Stories: By taking lots of pictures, you can create a visual narrative of your cruise adventure. You can relive the moments captured in the photos and share the stories behind them, whether it’s a breathtaking sunset, a funny encounter with a fellow passenger, or an exhilarating excursion.
4. Enhance Social Media Presence: If you enjoy being active on social media, taking lots of pictures on your cruise can provide a wealth of content to share. From Instagram-worthy shots to Facebook albums, you can showcase your travel experiences, engage with others who have similar interests, and even gain followers who appreciate your cruise posts.
5. Document Itinerary and Activities: Taking pictures can serve as a visual itinerary of your cruise. You can snap photos of the daily activities, events, and excursions that you participated in, helping you remember what you did and when.
6. Create Personal Artwork: You can use your cruise pictures to create personalized artwork, such as photo books, collages, or even frame-worthy prints.

What Not To Do On A Cruise: In Conclusion …

Ultimately, a cruise offers the chance to embark on a unique adventure, one where you can explore multiple destinations, partake in exciting activities, and savor leisurely moments. By avoiding the common pitfalls outlined above, you’ll be better equipped to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the open sea, the charm of new ports, the camaraderie of fellow travellers, and you won’t be left disappointed.

Bon Voyage 🙂

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