Smooth Sailing: Top 10 Tips for Cruise Ship Travellers

A cruise holiday can be a thrilling way to explore. Whether you’re taking a Mediterranean cruise, a Caribbean cruise, or something a bit different, it can offer a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. But to make the most of your cruise experience, it's essential to be well-prepared. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned maritime traveller, these top 10 tips will help ensure your journey is smooth sailing from start to finish.

1. Research and Plan Ahead: It sounds obvious, but don’t just ‘wing it’. It may sound boring, but it’s essential before setting sail to conduct thorough research on your chosen cruise line, ship, and itinerary. Familiarise yourself with the onboard amenities, dining options, and excursion possibilities. Planning ahead allows you to make informed decisions, ensuring you can maximise your cruise experience.
2. Pack Wisely: Pack strategically by considering the climate of your destinations, onboard dress codes, and any planned excursions. And don't forget essentials like sunscreen and comfortable shoes for shore excursions. Many cruises run themed nights that require a specific dress code, for instance, Black Tie evenings or Dress Up evenings, so you may want to pack some formal attire. Most importantly, check the cruise line's specific packing guidelines to avoid any unwanted surprises.
3. Embrace Onboard Activities: Cruise ships are floating resorts with a plethora of onboard activities. Take advantage of the entertainment, fitness classes, and themed events offered. From Broadway-style shows to culinary workshops, there's something for everyone. Plan your daily activities in advance to make the most of your time at sea.
4. Be Mindful of Seasickness: While modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilisers to minimise motion, it's wise to be prepared for the possibility of seasickness. Pack motion sickness remedies, choose a cabin located midship for stability, and opt for fresh air if you feel queasy. Many ships also provide seasickness wristbands or medications at the onboard medical centre.
5. Stay Connected: While part of the charm of a cruise is escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life, for many, staying connected is essential. Check if your cruise line offers Wi-Fi packages or consider an international roaming plan. This ensures you can stay in touch with loved ones, share your experiences on social media, access important information, or follow key sporting events during your voyage.
6. Explore Culinary Delights: Cruise ships are renowned for their diverse culinary offerings. Take the opportunity to savour a variety of cuisines at the onboard restaurants. Many ships also offer speciality dining experiences, so consider making reservations early to secure a spot at your desired venue.
7. Respect Local Cultures: When exploring ports of call, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Research the cultural norms of each destination and dress modestly when necessary. Engaging with locals and immersing yourself in the unique charm of each port can enhance your overall travel experience.
8. Budget for Onboard Expenses: While many amenities are included in your cruise fare, be mindful of additional expenses such as gratuities, speciality dining, and excursions. Remember, cruise lines are businesses after all. Establish a budget for onboard spending to avoid unexpected charges and ensure a stress-free journey.
9. Prioritise Health and Safety: Stay vigilant about health and safety measures onboard. Wash your hands regularly, use hand sanitisers provided throughout the ship, and follow any additional guidelines provided by the cruise line. Prioritise your well-being to ensure a healthy and enjoyable cruise experience. It’s also advisable to ensure you have a valid and up-to-date Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), which lets you access state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA) and some other countries on the same basis as a resident of that country. This may be free, or it may require a payment equivalent to that which a local resident would pay.
10. Purchase Travel Insurance: When going on a cruise, there are certain scenarios that a standard travel insurance policy won’t cover you for. These tend to be cruise specific, such as missed port cover or cover to re-join your cruise. That’s why investing in a travel insurance policy with cruise cover is so important, as this will provide you with the peace of mind you need out at sea.

Embarking on a cruise is an exciting opportunity to create lasting memories. By following these top 10 tips, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the high seas with confidence, helping to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Bon voyage!

Family Travel Insurance from Voyager Plus

For peace of mind whilst on your cruise, remember to buy your Voyager Plus Travel Insurance, with Optional Cruise Cover. Voyager Plus Travel Insurance offers 4 levels of cover to choose from, Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip options, access to GP on Demand, and includes cover for the following:.

• Kids go Free! – Dependants in full-time education up to 20 years old
• Emergency Medical Expenses – up to £10,000,000
• Cancellation Cover – up to £10,000
• Baggage Cover – up to £3,500
• 100s of activities covered as standard And so much more.

You can get a Voyager Plus Travel Insurance policy, with Optional Cruise Cover, quote by clicking the “Get A Quote” button below or by calling our UK-based call centre on 01483 806 680.

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To find out exactly what a Voyage Plus Travel Insurance policy can cover, please see our policy wording.

This article is for information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing. However, please check the latest policy wording for the latest terms, conditions, and exclusions.