The Best Cruise Tips And Hacks That Everyone Needs To Know

Planning a cruise holiday is full of excitement, with phenomenal activities, fabulous food, unbelievable entertainment and exhilarating destinations all on the horizon.

However, as you look ahead to your upcoming voyage, there are some top insider tips that we think everyone should know about. Whether it’s your first time aboard a ship or you’re a seasoned sailor, we’re sure you’ll be glad you had these simple tricks up your sleeve. From stowing away a few handy extras in your suitcase to clever money-saving ideas, these practical cruise holiday hacks will help you make the most of your voyage. You can thank us later.

Plan ahead

Taking the time to get a few essentials organised early will make life easier and allow you to plan and book certain aspects of your cruise that you might miss out on if you delay.

• Travel insurance - You should always get your travel insurance as soon as you’ve booked your cruise holiday. Don’t put it off. There’s always a chance you might forget and you never know when you might need it.
• Check-in - Find out when your online check-in opens and check-in as soon as you can. This allows you to ensure that your booking is correct, as well as select your boarding time.
• Get the app - Download the cruise line’s app and log in to your account as soon as you can. You’ll then be able to discover all the features on your ship, as well as find information about dining, activity programmes and more during your voyage. It’s also the place to book restaurants, shows, port excursions and more.

What to pack

It goes without saying that you will need clothes suitable for your chosen ports of call, swimming wear, medication and sun protection if you’re going somewhere hot, as well as all your usual holiday essentials. However, there are a few handy extras that you may wish to add to your packing list.

• Magnetic hooks - With most cabin walls made of metal, these can come in really useful for hanging hats, bags and more, as well as saving space in the process.
• Reusable drinks mugs - A lot of cruise ships don’t provide in-room tea and coffee-making facilities, so if you like a hot cup of tea before bed or a coffee first thing in the morning, consider packing an insulated drinks mug. Fill up at the free tea and coffee station and off you go.
• Sealable food bags - The cookies and biscuits often offered complimentary on cruise ships are loved by children (and adults, if we’re being honest). Pop a few in a food bag and you’ve got a quick snack for little ones, whether that be on a sea day or exploring a port of call.

All aboard

The big day has arrived and it’s time to step aboard your ship and begin your adventure.

• Boarding time - Choosing an early boarding time is a great way to eke out as much out of your cruise holiday as possible and has a few advantages. As not everyone will be onboard, you can explore without the crowds, enjoy leisure features, such as water slides, without the queues, and be among the first to sample the buffet treats. You will also have a little bit more time to take advantage of your cruise drinks package.
• Carry-on essentials - It’s very likely you’ll have to wait for your suitcase to arrive at your cabin on embarkation day. With this in mind, make sure you pack swimsuits, sun cream, medications, phone chargers and any other essentials you might need on your first day in your carry-on bag.
• Aeroplane mode - Once onboard you ship it’s a good idea to switch your phone to aeroplane mode. This will mean you don’t fall foul to any roaming charges and allows you to enjoy your cruise without any unwanted disturbances.
• Kids’ Clubs - If you’re sailing with children, check if you need to book slots at the kids’ club as soon as you board. If so, reserve their spot so they don’t miss out on the fun and you don’t miss out on any planned me time.

Food and drink

From themed buffets and fast food eats to gourmet feasts and speciality treats, the dining options on cruise holidays are truly incredible. However, there are a few tricks to help you save money, avoid mealtime queues and ensure you don’t miss out on the best restaurants aboard your ship.

• Dinner time - If you have to pick your dinner time in the main dining room, consider the options, as you will usually find this stays the same throughout your cruise. Anytime dining allows flexibility, but you could face queuing for a table at busy times. You can avoid waiting to eat by choosing booked dining, where your slot is the same time every day. You can pick an early or late dinner slot, but if your evening plans clash, you may have to wait for a table when you do go to eat.
• Speciality Restaurants - Reserve your speciality restaurant choices as soon as bookings open on the cruise line app or website. Some dining venues are hugely popular, so if you don’t want to miss out it’s well worth securing your table straight away.
• Buffet - If you’re planning to hit the buffet, bear in mind that it can get busy. If you’re hoping to dodge the crowds, time your breakfast visit as early as possible, your lunchtime refuel after 1.30pm and your dinner feast after 7.30pm.
• Treat yourself - If you can’t decide between starters or two desserts tempt your taste buds, don’t be afraid to ask for extra if you’re eating in the main dining room. You can also ask for alternative main dishes if you decide you’re not keen on your first choice.

Seas the day

Cruise ships are a hive of activity with non-stop entertainment, activities and fun. Here are a few ways to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the treats on offer during your cruise.

• Shows and entertainment - Check the daily schedule of entertainment in your app or on the daily programme, usually left in your room by your cruise steward or posted on a notice board. If reservations are required for certain performances and acts, make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.
• Ship savings - Keep an eye out for free activities or discounts on spa treatments, speciality dining and excursions in the ship’s daily newsletter. Deals and offers can also be announced over the public address system.

Ports of call

When your ship arrives in port, the opportunity for adventure awaits. Just make sure you don’t miss out. On the other hand, you may be planning to take advantage of a little peace and quiet on deck.

• Book excursions early - The earlier you book any land excursions, the better. Reserve your spot as soon as the activities are released prior to your cruise, if possible. This will save you from being disappointed if you miss out.
• Stay informed - Check the ship’s daily newsletter for information about ports of call, as well as docking, disembarkation and ‘all-aboard times’. Details may also be posted on the ship’s message board, on the app or announced over the PA system.
• Alone onboard - If you’re not too bothered about exploring one of the destinations on your itinerary, port days are usually a fantastic time to take advantage of fewer crowds and enjoy pools, hot tubs and onboard activities. You may also find special offers on spa treatments and speciality dining on port days, so look and listen out for any notices or announcements.

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