Common Mistakes First-Time Cruise Passengers Make
Cruise ships offer a unique and exciting way to travel, but for first-time cruisers, the experience can come with its fair share of challenges. Lucy Southerton, a 29-year-old from Birmingham who has worked on cruise ships for over a decade, recently shared her insights on the most common mistakes that new passengers make. Her advice, aimed at helping travelers avoid stress and regret, is invaluable for anyone planning their first cruise.
Arriving on the Same Day as the Cruise
One of the biggest errors that first-time cruisers make is flying to the ship on the same day they are joining it. Lucy emphasized that this can lead to significant problems if the flight is delayed or canceled. Unlike a hotel where you can arrive late, a cruise ship departs regardless of whether you're on board or not.
She warned: “If your flight is canceled or delayed, the cruise ship is leaving with or without you.” To avoid this risk, Lucy advised booking a hotel the night before. She explained that while it may seem like an extra expense, it could save the entire holiday from being ruined by stress.
Not Budgeting for Extra Costs
Another frequent mistake is not accounting for additional costs that come with cruising. Many passengers assume that everything is included in the price, but this is often not the case. From Wi-Fi packages and drinks to excursions and specialty restaurants, there are several expenses that can add up quickly.
Lucy highlighted the importance of factoring these costs into the budget. She listed examples such as Wi-Fi packages, gratuities, drinks, excursions, and specialty dining. Being prepared financially can help avoid surprises and ensure a more enjoyable trip.
Overpacking
Overpacking is a common issue, especially for those who are not used to traveling on a cruise. Lucy noted that many people bring too much luggage, which can be problematic when trying to carry purchases made during the trip. She recommended packing slightly less than the allowed weight to leave room for souvenirs and other items bought on board.
“Remember, there are shops on the cruise ship that you’re going to want to spend money at,” she said. This tip can help prevent the hassle of having to pay extra for overweight baggage.
Forgetting to Put Your Phone on Flight Mode
A costly mistake that Lucy personally experienced was not putting her phone on flight mode. She recounted how she spent £500 on unexpected charges after forgetting to switch it off.
To avoid this, Lucy advised all first-time cruisers to turn their phones to flight mode as soon as they step on board. Additionally, she suggested disabling automatic time updates and switching to manual settings. This ensures that the time on the phone matches the ship’s schedule, preventing missed events or dinner reservations.
Choosing the Wrong Cabin
Selecting the right cabin is another crucial decision for first-time cruisers. Lucy shared her advice on picking a cabin located in the middle of the ship, surrounded by other cabins. This helps avoid disturbances from nearby facilities such as gyms or nightclubs.
“If you have a cabin near the gym, you might hear people running early in the morning. Similarly, if you’re near the nightclub, you might not get much sleep,” she said. She also advised checking deck plans carefully if offered an upgrade, as the location might not be ideal even if the cabin itself is better.
By avoiding these common mistakes, first-time cruisers can enjoy a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Lucy’s tips provide practical guidance that can help travelers make the most of their cruise, ensuring a stress-free and memorable journey.
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