If you have never been on a cruise ship before there are some things you should be aware of before you make your booking. Of course, personal choice comes into everything, but here are a few pointers to hopefully make your first cruise a good one.
Check Out The Ship
Of course, you need to make sure you are happy with the shipping line you are booking with but you also need to check out the ship. Some of the older ships do not have so many facilities as the newer ones. This might not be a problem if it is relaxation you are after. However, if you want to be able to have lots of activities while aboard, you should probably opt for one of the later ones.
Most cruise lines refurbish their ships every 5 years or so. It is worth checking if this had been done to the ship you are considering, as they may have added more facilities at the same time.
Be Aware Of The Layout Before Booking Your Cabin
Cabins on ships are a bit like the rooms in hotels. The bigger they are and the better position they are in, the more they will cost you. The ones in the center of the ship, with no external views, are usually the cheapest but they also happen to be the best if you are likely to suffer from seasickness. It is in these cabins that any rocking caused by a rough sea is less felt.
If you are on any of the lower decks you could find yourself beneath a dance floor or the swimming pool. This can be good as it means you will not have to go far to reach them, but you have to be prepared for the noise they will create.
If you have the funds, a cabin with a private balcony can be ideal. Then you get to see all the views in the peace and quiet of your own room.
Whatever cabin you choose, check for any problems as soon as you get there. If there is a broken tap or no showerhead, tell a member of the crew straightaway. These things should be put right before the passengers board, and you do not want to be blamed for the damage.
Pack The Right Things
The formality has gone from most cruises these days. You do not have to dress up for dinner anymore. Smart casual is perfectly acceptable and it is only for a special occasion you may need something more formal. These events tend to be restricted to certain areas and times, and you only have to attend if you really want to.
There can be restrictions on what you can take aboard, such as relating to alcohol. You should look into this before you finish packing as the rules can vary from shop to ship.
It can take a while for your suitcases to reach your cabin and it is not a bad idea to have a few essentials in a day bag until that happens. Things such as medicines and swimwear can make that wait less tedious.
Don’t Forget Medications
If you have to take any medications you should make sure you have ample supply before boarding the cruise ship. The medical facilities are generally very good, but they may not have the particular medication you need. If you then have to buy them in one of the ports you stop at, they could cost you a lot of money.
You should also have insurance to cover you in case of illness or injury. Cruise lines take matters relating to the safety of everyone on board very seriously, but sometimes accidents do happen. With this in mind, it is also a good idea to have the contact details of a good maritime accident attorney, so if you are the victim of such an event, the help you may need will be at hand. Remember, it is unlikely you’ll have any trouble though!
Explore The Ship
Some ships are so huge they are like floating resorts. Before you do anything else you should explore it to find where the places are that you will want to use, and the easiest way to get to them. If you have no idea where you are going, you could waste a lot of time when you could be enjoying yourself instead.
Even smaller ships can take some getting used to, and the exploration could make the whole cruise much more pleasant. You may even discover activities and facilities that you were not aware of.
Always remember too that the staff is there to help you have a good time. Never be afraid to ask if you need information or have a problem, and hopefully, your first cruise will be the first of many.
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Very useful tips on how to select s ships cabin. I had no idea that the cheapest ones are usually at the center but it actually makes sense. Also i think most people don’t ask what will be above and below their cabin and i can only imagine having the dance floor above your cabin when you need some peace and quite.