Expert-Approved Tips to Enhance Your Cruise Experience: 21 Essential Insights

Get ready for a trip to remember with these helpful cruise tips from industry experts.

Some 30 million people board cruise ships every year to hit the high seas in style. If you’re thinking about becoming one of them, first, congratulations! However, there are a few things you should know. Here are 21 cruise tips and tricks from insiders to help you have the best sailing of your life.

1. Understand what’s included and what’s not before you step aboard.

“Make sure you know what’s included before you board your cruise, so you’re totally clear on what you’ve paid for in advance and what you haven’t. It may make sense to purchase an all-inclusive beverage package ahead of your sailing, which means less to think about once on board and potential savings depending on how much you imbibe. Windstar offers both cruise-only options and all-inclusive rates with unlimited beer, wine, cocktails, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. Make the decision that fits your circumstances the best when you’re booking, and simply enjoy once you’re on board.”

— Chris Dodds, captain on the Star Breeze from Windstar Cruises

2. Get the lay of the land ASAP.

“When you arrive on the ship, take time to explore each deck so that you know exactly where everything is. This way, you won’t lose time or arrive late to an activity because you got lost. Review the schedules to see when you may be able to avoid lines for certain activities on board.”

— Dr. Terika Haynes, owner, Dynamite Travel

3. For the best en-suite views, choose a room at the back of the ship.

“Although our ships offer many amazing views, I personally love the decks located at the back of the ship. They are nice and quiet, offering wonderful sweeping views of the ocean or port. Often, you can spot whales, seals, and dolphins from this area, and the sunsets and sunrises are particularly stunning.”

— Kelly Cochrane, executive chef, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

4. For the best sunsets, head to the observation deck.

“There are many places to enjoy the views onboard, but my favorite is the observation deck. Quiet and secluded, it’s a wonderful spot for spectacular views.”

— Allan Ortiz, head sommelier, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

5. Explore all your shore excursion options.

“Just because your cruise ship offers a shore excursion doesn’t mean you need to book it with the cruise. I recommend working with an experienced travel advisor for your excursions to make your experience as immersive, private, and unique as possible.”

— Andrea Galvez, director and expedition cruise expert, Craft Travel Group

6. Don’t overlook night time excursions.

“Some cities shine in the sun, while others come alive at night. Research ahead of your voyage to discover unmissable experiences and take advantage of all the time you have in port.”

— Andrea Baigorria, global head of PR and communications, Azamara

7. Pay close attention to the listed physical activity levels for excursions.

“When booking excursions, pay attention to the described physical activity levels. Many people don’t anticipate that a Windstar excursion marked as ‘strenuous’ means just that. If you prefer a less vigorous outing, choose easy to moderate levels.”

— Chris Dodds

8. Don’t overpack; take advantage of laundry service instead.

“My best packing tip is to utilize the laundry services onboard. Additionally, limit the amount of clothes you bring, opting for versatile items like windbreakers and comfortable clothing for lounging.”

— Kelly Cochrane

9. Make sure to pack important items in your carry-on luggage.

“Many travelers overstuff their checked bags and neglect their carry-ons. Keep in mind it can take hours to receive your checked baggage. Therefore, pack essentials, including medicine, a change of clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen, in your day pack.”

— Sean Harris, managing editor, Family Destinations Guide

10. Don’t limit your vacation to the sailing dates.

“Choose destinations that allow for extension trips. For example, if visiting Antarctica, consider a trip to Patagonia. Also, consider spending a night in a hotel before embarking to allow for delays.”

— Andrea Galvez

11. Share your special moments with the crew ahead of time.

“If you’re celebrating a special occasion, mention this to your cruise operator. You may receive complimentary treats, upgrades, or private events to enhance your experience.”

— Jeremy Clubb, Founder, Rainforest Cruises

12. Get to know the crew, too.

“The crew members come from all over the world and can provide valuable insights into local hidden gems, such as shopping, restaurants, and viewpoints.”

— Carol Cabezas, president, Azamara

13. Always read the daily itineraries.

“Keep an eye on the changing activities and food offerings onboard, especially during sea days, as you might discover unique opportunities.”

— Ryzsard Gusmann, hotel director on Azamara Quest

14. Let yourself enjoy a full day at sea.

“Ensure you have at least one day at sea to savor the journey. It’s as rewarding as the destinations.”

— Carlos Caicedo, Marketing Manager, Luxury Cruise Connections

15. Tip accordingly.

“You can prepay tips or give them based on service quality. The guideline is typically $20 per person per day for crew and $10-15 for guides.”

— Fernando Diez, marketing director, Quasar Expeditions

16. Have dietary restrictions? Speak directly to the chef.

“If you have dietary needs, discuss them with the chef on board to ensure a pleasant dining experience.”

— Chris Dodds

17. Book specialty dining as soon as possible.

“Reserve specialty dining quickly. If you wait until boarding, popular restaurants may have limited availability.”

— Ben Souza, editor, Cruise Fever

18. Ask about a chef’s table experience.

“If you enjoy culinary experiences, check if your ship has a chef’s table, which is an intimate tasting menu event.”

— Lauren Quirk, owner, Travel With Character

19. Bring a converter just in case.

“Consider bringing a European travel plug adapter, as many cruise ships have standard European outlets.”

— Jonathan de Araujo, owner, The Vacationeer

20. You can’t count on onboard Wi-Fi, so make sure to do all your planning prior to departure.

“Wi-Fi on ships is usually unreliable and expensive. Plan your port days in advance to maximize your time in port.”

— Alissa Musto, cruise ship entertainer

21. Traveling with kids? Try connecting rooms.

“If you have a larger family, connecting rooms can offer more space and maintain proximity for children.”

— Michelle Schomp, founder, Passport Explorers