21 Tips and Tricks That Will Make Your First Cruise Go Smoothly

A first cruise is exciting – and a little confusing. Ships are big, there's a new vocabulary to learn, and every cruise line does things slightly differently. These tips, gathered from experienced cruisers, will help you settle in from day one.

If you haven't booked yet, start with our beginner's guide to picking a cruise line.

Before you sail

1. Arrive the day before. Flights get delayed, and the ship won't wait for you. Spending a night in the departure city removes the biggest source of stress.

2. Download your cruise line's app. Most lines use their app for check-in, boarding times, daily schedules, dining reservations and onboard messaging.

3. Complete online check-in early. You'll often get a better boarding time.

4. Book popular extras in advance. Specialty restaurants, shows, spa treatments and excursions on busy port days can sell out before you board.

5. Research each port. Decide which ports you'll explore on your own and which need a tour. Check how far the port is from the town and how you'll get there.

6. Join an online group for your sailing. Fellow passengers share tips, arrange private tours together and answer first-timer questions.

Packing

7. Pack your swimsuit in your carry-on. Your suitcase may not arrive at your cabin until late afternoon.

8. Don't overpack. Cabins are small. Most cruises have a few dressier evenings, but for the rest of the time casual clothes are fine. Our packing light guide has more space-saving tricks.

9. Bring magnetic hooks. Cabin walls are usually metal, and a few hooks add useful hanging space.

10. Check the rules on electrical items. Many cruise lines ban surge-protected power strips and some appliances. Check before you pack.

11. Bring a small first-aid kit with plasters, painkillers and any motion-sickness remedy your pharmacist recommends.

12. Check the drinks policy. Some lines let you bring a limited amount of wine or soft drinks on board; others don't.

On board

13. Explore the ship on the first afternoon. It's the quietest time to find your way around.

14. Skip the buffet on day one. It's the busiest place on the ship. Look for a quieter restaurant or café instead.

15. Attend the safety drill. It's mandatory, and on many ships it's now partly done on your phone or TV, followed by a visit to your muster station.

16. Set a spending limit. Everything is charged to your cruise card, and drinks, Wi-Fi and extras add up quickly. Check your account in the app regularly.

17. Decide early on drinks and Wi-Fi packages. They're often cheaper when bought before the cruise or on the first day.

18. Don't try to do everything. The daily programme is packed. Pick the highlights and leave time to relax.

In port

19. Know the "all aboard" time – usually 30 to 60 minutes before departure – and set an alarm on your phone in ship's time.

20. Carry your cruise card and ID when you go ashore, along with the ship's agent phone number for that port.

21. Get off early or late. Ports are busiest when everyone leaves the ship at once. Either be first off or wait an hour for the crowds to clear.