Onboard

Mind that thousands of pieces of luggage come onboard at roughly the same time, so do not worry if your luggage isn't in your cabin on your arrival.

A great idea for family members is to take two-way walkie-talkies, so they could keep in touch while they are onboard the ship. If you have no, you may rent them for the duration of the voyage.

Many ships sell an "unlimited soft drink" cup for kids. If you're traveling with young ones, this can be a wise to buy it as you will save considerable cash in the end.

The staff onboard your ship are priceless information resource. Most of them have visited your ports of call several times. If you have any questions ask your cabin stewards, waiters, etc.

You should prepare to spend an average of $10 USD to $15 USD a day for tips.

Be ready to give gratuities to waiters, headwaiters, shore guides, spa and salon experts, cabin stewards and other staff who display excellent service.

Check your bills thoroughly, as most lines add a 15% gratuity automatically to bar, beverage, wine and deck service checks.

Never leave valuable stuff out in the open in your cabin. Keep them in your luggage or safe if there is any.
Many cruise lines cater in-suite babysitting.

Scrutinize the exit route from your cabin to the open decks, in case of emergency.

Do sign up for spa, sporting events, salon appointments and other aboard services as early as possible.

In case that you book an air/sea package and your luggage does not arrive, the airline should deliver it to the next port. You should give the airline an itinerary and a list of port agents.

If you have any problems with your stateroom, report them immediately.

While not all ships provide tables for only two dining, yours may. Ask if your preference can be accommodated when being seated.

In the beginning, you may carry the deck plan with you. Take a walk and learn the layout of the ship, and find out how to get to your stateroom from the main stairways.

Items that are considered to be extras in your cruise fare may include: alcoholic beverages, soft drinks not taken at dinner, laundry, phone calls and casino.

If you found something special in the onboard mall, resist the temptation to buy it until the last day of the cruise. Many items unavoidably go at discount rates.

Shore Excursions and Post-Cruise >>