10 First-Time Cruiser Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Going on your first cruise is exciting—a floating resort, exotic ports of call, and endless food and entertainment. But with so much to take in, it’s easy for first-time cruisers to make a few missteps that can lead to stress, added expenses, or missed opportunities.
Here are the 10 most common mistakes first-time cruisers make—and how you can avoid them for smooth sailing.
1. Booking the Wrong Cabin Type
Not all staterooms are created equal. Choosing the cheapest interior cabin might save money, but if you’re prone to claustrophobia or seasickness, you’ll regret it. Conversely, splurging on a suite without needing the extra space or perks might stretch your budget unnecessarily.
✅ Tip: Research your cabin options carefully. Balcony cabins offer fresh air and private views, while interior rooms are great for those who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship.
2. Not Arriving the Day Before Departure
Flights get delayed. Traffic happens. Showing up on cruise day is risky—and if you miss the ship, it won’t wait.
✅ Tip: Always fly in at least one day early. A pre-cruise hotel stay gives you peace of mind and starts your vacation stress-free.
3. Overpacking (or Underpacking)
Cruise cabins are tight on storage, and overstuffed suitcases can clutter your space. At the same time, forgetting essentials (like sunscreen or seasickness meds) can cost you extra at onboard shops.
✅ Tip: Pack smart with a mix of formal, casual, and activewear. Use packing cubes and bring only what you’ll truly use.
4. Ignoring the Daily Schedule
Every cruise line provides a daily newsletter or app schedule filled with events, dining times, show reservations, and more. Skipping it means missing out on fun—and sometimes essential—information.
✅ Tip: Read the schedule every evening so you can plan ahead and not miss shows, excursions, or activities that interest you.
5. Forgetting to Put Your Phone in Airplane Mode
One overlooked setting can lead to hundreds in roaming charges.
✅ Tip: As soon as you sail away, turn on airplane mode and connect to the ship’s Wi-Fi (if you plan to use it). Otherwise, your phone could latch onto expensive maritime networks.
6. Not Understanding Gratuities
Many first-timers are surprised by automatic service charges added to their onboard account, or confused about when to tip.
✅ Tip: Know your cruise line’s gratuity policy in advance. Some allow you to prepay, and most gratuities are mandatory.
7. Skipping Shore Excursion Planning
Waiting until you’re onboard to book shore excursions can lead to sold-out tours or higher prices. Worse, venturing off on your own without research can be risky.
✅ Tip: Book popular excursions early, especially for bucket-list activities. If exploring independently, plan your day and know return times.
8. Not Bringing a Carry-On for Embarkation Day
Your checked luggage may not arrive in your cabin for hours after boarding. That means no swimsuit, medicine, or chargers until later.
✅ Tip: Pack a carry-on with essentials—swimsuit, sunscreen, meds, a change of clothes, and anything you’ll want for your first few hours aboard.
9. Skipping the Muster Drill
The muster drill is a mandatory safety exercise that tells you what to do in an emergency. Some new cruisers try to skip or ignore it—bad idea.
✅ Tip: Pay attention. It’s short, straightforward, and for your own safety. Plus, some cruise lines now offer virtual muster drills for added convenience.
10. Thinking Everything Is Free
While food, basic drinks, and entertainment are generally included, many things cost extra—alcohol, specialty restaurants, excursions, Wi-Fi, and gratuities.
✅ Tip: Know what’s included and set a spending budget. Many cruise lines offer drink or dining packages to help manage costs.
Final Thoughts
Your first cruise should be filled with fun and unforgettable memories—not regrets. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a savvy cruiser from day one. Bon voyage!