All Abroad! Cruise Tips for 1st Timers.

Introduction

Cruise vacations have surged in popularity over the past decade, becoming one of the fastest-growing segments in the travel industry. This rise is largely attributed to the evolution of cruise packages, which now offer an all-inclusive experience that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Modern cruise deals typically bundle together gourmet buffet meals, fine dining options, round-the-clock room service, daily housekeeping, a variety of onboard entertainment, and comfortable accommodations—all for a single price. These offerings eliminate much of the hassle and unpredictability associated with traditional travel planning. As a result, cruising is no longer seen as a luxury reserved for a select few, but as an accessible and convenient vacation option for families, solo travelers, and retirees alike. This widespread appeal has helped fuel the cruise industry’s rapid growth and sustained popularity.

According to Travel Off Path, cruise trips have become increasingly popular due to their unique combination of convenience, entertainment, and value. On modern cruise ships, passengers enjoy a wide array of entertainment options ranging from Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, casinos, themed parties, and movie screenings to recreational facilities like swimming pools, water parks, fitness centers, and sports courts. This abundance of activities allows guests of all ages and interests to find something enjoyable without ever leaving the ship. People have freedom to choose what activities they want to do. 

One of the main reasons for cruising’s popularity is the hassle-free planning it offers. Unlike traditional vacations where travelers have to coordinate flights, hotels, meals, and daily activities separately, cruise packages typically include accommodations, meals—ranging from casual buffets to gourmet dining—room service, and many onboard activities in one upfront price. This all-inclusive approach provides great value and makes budgeting much easier for families, couples, solo travelers, and groups.

Additionally, cruise lines have focused on creating flexible itineraries and unique shore excursions at different ports of call, allowing travelers to visit multiple destinations in a single trip without the need to pack and unpack or navigate complex logistics. This has helped position cruising as both an adventure and a relaxing escape, appealing to a broad and growing audience. (5 Reasons Why Cruising Is Exploding In Popularity With Travelers Right Now, 2023).

This blog is my comprehensive guide for cruise first-timers, featuring the personal journey of United, a 32-year-old solo travel expert. In November 2023, United embarked on her very first cruise—a 6-day, 5-night adventure that took her to several exciting destinations. As a solo traveler, she was initially unsure of what to expect, but quickly discovered a welcoming community and a wealth of onboard activities tailored to every interest.

I share her honest experiences on board, offering valuable tips and tricks to help first-timers make the most of their cruise. I opened up about the lessons I learned, the mistakes I made, and the unique challenges and rewards of cruising alone. Whether it’s navigating the dining options, making new friends, or choosing the best excursions, my story is both relatable and instructive for anyone considering a solo cruise trip.

Booking:

If you are seasick, I highly recommend booking a lower-deck room, like an interior room, since you don’t feel the ship’s movement, and some people get dizzy in motion.

Booking the right cabin is one of the most important decisions for first-time cruisers. There are several types of cabins, such as interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite. Interior cabins are usually the most affordable and are located in the middle of the ship, making them a great choice for those concerned about seasickness. Oceanview and balcony cabins offer natural light and private outdoor space, but are often situated on higher decks, which can be more susceptible to motion.

When booking, consider your budget, sensitivity to motion, and desired level of comfort. If you prioritize quiet and stability, mid-ship cabins on lower decks are generally best. Cabins at the front (bow) or back (aft) of the ship may experience more movement. If you’re a light sleeper, avoid cabins beneath busy areas like pools or nightclubs. It’s also important to book early to have the widest selection and best prices. Many cruise lines allow you to choose your exact cabin location during the booking process.

First-timers should also research the ship layout and read reviews about cabin categories. Some ships have solo cabins specifically designed for single travelers, which may offer better value and privacy. Don’t hesitate to contact the cruise line or a travel agent for advice tailored to your needs. I booked on the 8th deck on the MSC Meraviglia, toward the bow of the ship. The higher the deck, the more prone the ship is to seasickness. It is best to book a lower-deck cabin on either the bow or the middle.

Shore Excursions

When planning your cruise, booking shore excursions in advance can make a world of difference. Most cruise lines, including Norwegian and MSC, offer a variety of excursions at each port—ranging from city tours and snorkeling adventures to culinary experiences and cultural immersions. It’s highly recommended to review your itinerary and reserve your preferred activities as soon as possible, since the most popular excursions tend to fill up quickly.

Websites like Shore Excursions Group (https://www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/) allow you to browse and book options before you depart. Booking ahead not only saves you money compared to onboard prices, but also ensures you secure a spot on experiences that matter most to you.

Insider tip: Prioritize the excursions you’re most interested in and book them early. Demand can be high, and waiting until you’re on the ship might mean missing out on unique experiences.

For independent travelers, platforms like Viator or ToursByLocals also offer a wide selection of guided activities that can be booked separately from the cruise line. These options often provide smaller group sizes and unique perspectives on each destination.

Tips: if your trip includes docking at a USA port, you can travel on a solo cruise after your 21st birthday on the day of departure, or book a solo cabin.

Preparation tips:

Bring your passport and ensure it is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates. While some cruise lines may accept passport cards for certain itineraries, most modern cruise lines require a full passport book—especially if your trip involves international ports. In case of emergencies or unexpected travel changes, a passport book is essential for air travel and re-entry to your home country.

Bring a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, in addition to your passport. You may need to present both at check-in, when embarking or disembarking at ports, and for certain onboard activities.

Have your printed reservation confirmation, including your booking number and stateroom number, ready for check-in. Make sure the name on your ID and reservation matches exactly—any discrepancies can prevent you from boarding. The booking number is required to receive your boarding pass and access your stateroom, while the stateroom number helps direct you to your accommodations once onboard.

Preparation tips for your cruise trip:

• Make photocopies or digital scans of your passport, photo ID, and reservation details, and keep them in a separate location from the originals.
• Pack all essential documents and identification in your carry-on bag for easy access during check-in.
• Double-check your travel insurance, medical records, and any required visas for your itinerary.
• Label your luggage with your name and stateroom number to help staff deliver bags directly to your room.
• Review your cruise line’s pre-boarding health and safety protocols in advance.

Taking these steps will help ensure a smooth embarkation and a stress-free start to your cruise adventure.

Packing:

When packing for a cruise trip, focus on lightweight, versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Bulky clothes take up unnecessary space in your luggage and are rarely needed unless you’re cruising to a cold destination.

For a 5-day cruise to Bermuda, I packed:

• 2 to 3 lightweight tops (t-shirts or blouses)
• 2 to 3 pairs of pants or shorts
• 1 casual dress for evenings or dining
• 3 to 4 pairs of undergarments (bras and panties)
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 set of sleepwear
• 1 swimsuit and a cover-up for pool days
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
• 1 light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

This approach keeps your suitcase manageable and ensures you have everything you need for a variety of activities onboard and ashore.

Factor: Days x undergarments by .75 = number of items needed?

So far, I needed 3 to 4 pairs of undergarments. It means for women, you need 3 to 4 pairs of both bra and panties.

Plan for 1 top per day, but choose items that can be reworn or layered, like 3 to 4 shirts/blouses and 2 to 4 pairs of pants, shorts, or skirts. This allows for outfit changes and weather flexibility without overpacking.

Don’t forget to check the weather at the port where you intend to stay. For example, if my port is Bermuda, be sure to check the weather before you pack. Ask yourself.

Tip: If your cruise includes stops with different climates, pack layers. For example, a cruise from chilly New York City to warm Bermuda means you’ll need both a sweater or jacket for chilly embarkation days and lighter clothes for tropical ports. Check the weather forecast at each destination before you pack.

The NYC weather was in the 40s while Bermuda was at 64 degrees.

IPT tip: You can do your own laundry to save money, since laundry is not included. Laundry can incur charges. It is best to do your own laundry and not bring bulky clothes, such as wool, since there is no room and they take longer to dry.

If cruising during late fall or winter, bring 1 to 2 sweaters or cardigans for colder days at sea or cool evenings. Packing for both warm and cool weather can be tricky, so prioritize versatile layers.

Don’t forget essentials beyond clothes: Pack toiletries like toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, deodorant, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and disinfecting wipes. Buying these items on board can be expensive, so bring enough for the whole trip.

IPT warning: Don’t pack other glasses, explosive devices, and flammable items.

I highly recommend leaving expensive items at home, such as an iPad, a laptop, a Rolex watch, and other valuables.

Activities and Entertainment

Cruising offers a wide variety of activities and entertainment options to suit every interest and age group. Whether you’re traveling solo or with family, you’ll find plenty to do throughout your voyage. Onboard, you can join solo traveler meetups, participate in group fitness classes like yoga or Zumba, try your hand at arts and crafts workshops, or even learn new moves during dance lessons.

On my recent cruise aboard the MSC Meraviglia, the daily program was packed with options. Free activities included splashing around in the expansive aqua park, walking the glass-floored Himalayan Bridge, and attending spectacular shows at the Broadway Theatre—each night offered something new, from musicals to acrobatic performances. I joined group dance lessons in the afternoon and spent time in the state-of-the-art gym and jogging lanes. The ship also offered themed parties, trivia contests, and movie nights, so boredom was never an option.

Dining was another highlight—there were complimentary meals at the main dining room and buffet, plus specialty restaurants for an extra charge. I highly recommend checking the daily schedule delivered to your stateroom to plan your day and make the most of every opportunity.

IPT Tip: Check with the cruise ship, find the ship map, and download it as a PDF. Many cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, MSC, Norwegian, and Carnival, do not include wifi unless you book with a club member.

The Wi-Fi cost per day depends on the line and the duration of the trip. For example, if my cruise trip is 5 days, it will cost $20/day. So that is $120 for the entire 6-day cruise trip.

If you ever find yourself with downtime, explore hidden gems on board—like the library, card room, or observation lounge. Many ships have art galleries, live music in lounges, and pop-up events like cooking demonstrations or wine tastings. If you’re into relaxation, book a treatment at the spa or unwind by the pool with a good book. Some ships even offer language classes, digital workshops, or behind-the-scenes tours.

For TV watchers or music lovers, like YouTube or YouTube Music, I highly recommend downloading videos before departure, so if you are offline, plane mode should only work on offline videos. Tip: You will need to upgrade to YouTube Premium.

Info:

Most major cruise lines now offer personalized cruise apps, and MSC’s “MSC for Me” app is an excellent example. I relied on this app throughout my trip—using it to check daily schedules, reserve show tickets, explore dining options, and even message other guests onboard. The app lets you view your onboard account, track activities, and receive real-time notifications for important updates.

Is it free to use?

Yes, the MSC for Me app is free to use via the ship’s intranet network, even without purchasing an internet package. Just connect your device to the ship’s Wi-Fi and open the app—no paid internet is needed. Be aware, however, that not every ship offers this feature, so check availability before your cruise.

What should I do instead of the internet?

Cruise apps like MSC for Me or similar apps on other cruise lines let you personalize your profile, save your favorite activities, and set reminders so you never miss an event. You can also use the app to check deck maps, dining times, and shore excursion schedules—all in one place.

Insider tip: If you prefer to disconnect, pack a book, journal, coloring pages, or small games to enjoy during downtime. Many cruisers relish the opportunity to unplug, socialize, or simply relax away from constant digital distractions. Cruise ships are designed for fun—even without internet access!

On the day:

As we arrived at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, we were excited for the first time. But, the panic came at the cost when we drove and parked at the cruise terminal parking lot, which costs $100 per night. What an extraorbitant.

Story from November 27, 2023: We pulled into the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal just before 11:45 a.m., thinking we were making good time. The anticipation was high as we navigated the busy parking lot—$100 per night for parking, but the excitement of the journey drowned out any complaints. The terminal buzzed with activity: families reuniting, suitcases rolling, and cruise staff directing streams of travelers. It seemed everyone had chosen the same arrival window, and the crowd was much larger than we expected. Despite feeling early, we quickly realized we were just a part of the midday rush.

But…

I wondered, “We are supposed to arrive 3 hours before departure” seems vague, like I mentioned, not including peak travel times like the week of November 26, 2023, which was the peak travel time.

The check-in line snaked around the terminal, moving at a glacial pace. We clutched our carry-ons and exchanged nervous glances as the clock ticked closer to lunchtime. Hunger set in, our stomachs rumbling as we watched others nibble on snacks they’d cleverly packed from home. The process dragged on for nearly 2 hours, and by the time we made it through security and completed our health screenings, the lunch service was nearly over. We hustled aboard the ship, hoping there’d still be something left to eat.

At last, we boarded the ship around 2:15 p.m., breathless and a bit frazzled. With barely enough time to spare, we made a beeline for the buffet, grateful to find a few trays still stocked with food. Lunch had never tasted so good, and we laughed at how close we’d come to missing our first meal on board.

Yikes!

Upon arriving at the interior cabin, what am I missing? Are we so excited that we made an irrational decision to arrive at noon? Well, it said “arrive at least 2 hours before departure,” which seems random and vague, like I said earlier.

What should I learn from the travel mistakes?

This time, on November 30, 2025, I arrived at the cruise terminal just after 10 a.m. for the scheduled 3 p.m. departure. The terminal was quiet, with only a handful of early birds checking in and porters whisking away luggage. The check-in process was smooth and efficient—just 45 minutes from start to finish, a stark contrast to the chaotic midday rush I’d experienced on previous trips. With plenty of time to spare, I didn’t have to worry about missing lunch or racing to complete paperwork. Instead, I could relax, wander the nearly empty terminal, and soak in the anticipation of a new adventure.

Boarding the ship just before noon, I felt a wave of relief and excitement. There was no pressure or rush—just a sense of ease as I made my way to the marketplace buffet for a welcome lunch. The dining area was calm, with plenty of tables and fresh food, making it the perfect way to settle in and start my cruise on a positive note.

It was then that I attended the muster drill, the assembly point for the emergency drill, as part of the safety training.

I am so thrilled to have a mindful time to eat and familiarize myself with their surroundings.

Onboard

Aha, stepping aboard the ship was a dream come true.

The announcement crackled over the ship’s loudspeakers: “Attention all guests, our mandatory safety drill will begin in fifteen minutes.” I felt a flutter of anticipation—no matter how many cruises I’d taken, the safety drill always marked the true start of the voyage.

Before departure, the crew directed everyone to watch the safety video in their staterooms or on their mobile devices. Passengers—some new, others seasoned cruisers—gathered in hallways and lounges, cruise cards in hand, searching for their assigned muster stations. The hallways hummed with nervous chatter and laughter as we all compared notes, double-checked our cards, and made our way to our designated spots. Some families struggled to keep kids corralled, while solo travelers like me shared a friendly nod with others along the way.

Even though I’d sailed on the MSC Meraviglia before, I was reminded that everyone—no matter how experienced—must participate in the drill. It’s a non-negotiable rule for every cruise line, ensuring that safety procedures are fresh in everyone’s mind. The crew checked our names off the list and demonstrated how to don a life jacket, their practiced motions both reassuring and serious. Once the drill wrapped up, the mood on board shifted. The tension dissolved into a sense of excitement and camaraderie. People spilled out onto the open decks, ready to toast the start of the journey. For me, the safety drill wasn’t just a formality—it was the first step in embracing the adventure ahead.

Activities onboard the ship

From dining to entertainment, cruise ships offer numerous activities, so it is best to research what is available. Tip: The activities are suspended until you complete the mandatory Safety Drill Training.

My experience onboard the MSC Meraviglia was nothing short of exhilarating. Each day began with a scan of the daily program, and I was amazed by the variety of activities on offer. I joined solo travel meetups, where I connected with other independent adventurers and swapped stories over coffee. The ship’s bridge—an elevated, glass-floored walkway—offered breathtaking views and a sense of daring with every step. The water slides were a highlight; after signing a quick waiver, I plunged down twisting tubes that soared above the pool deck, laughing alongside families and thrill-seekers alike.

Evenings brought a whole new level of excitement. I made it a point to catch the 80s comedy show at the Broadway Theatre—one of several performances included in the fare. The atmosphere was electric, with guests singing along to classic tunes and comedians delivering punchlines that had the whole audience roaring with laughter. Afterward, I wandered through the lively promenade, grabbing a late-night gelato and chatting with fellow cruisers about their favorite moments so far.

There was never a dull moment onboard. Whether I was soaring down the water slides, conquering the Himalayan Bridge, or simply lounging by the pool with a good book, the MSC Meraviglia offered the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The crew’s energy, the variety of dining, and the buzz from so many happy travelers made the whole cruise unforgettable.

Safety Onboard the Ship

Safety on the ship is always a top priority, especially for solo travelers. When I attended solo meetups or mingled in public areas, I was friendly but cautious. I learned from other seasoned cruisers that it’s wise not to disclose you’re traveling alone to strangers. If someone asked, I would simply say I was traveling with friends or family. This small precaution helps protect your privacy and discourages unwanted attention.

Most people I met were genuinely kind and eager to share their stories. Still, not everyone’s intentions are pure—just like anywhere else in the world. I made a point to stay aware of my surroundings, keep my valuables secure, and trust my instincts. It’s important to be extra vigilant, especially in crowded areas or when meeting new acquaintances.

Despite these precautions, meeting new people was one of the highlights of my cruise. Shared meals in the dining room, lively solo traveler meetups, and fun activities like arts and crafts made it easy to connect with fellow passengers from around the world. By balancing openness with a sense of safety, I enjoyed meaningful conversations and made lasting memories.

Personal finances

Managing your finances onboard a cruise ship is different from being on land, so it’s important to plan ahead. I highly recommend linking a debit or credit card to your cruise account at check-in. This way, all your onboard purchases—whether it’s drinks, specialty dining, or souvenirs—are charged to your cruise card, making transactions easier and more secure. Using cash is often inconvenient onboard, and many ships operate as cashless environments. Keep in mind that credit card charges may appear at different times, and it’s wise to monitor your spending throughout the trip.

Hotel Service Fee (Gratuities):

Most cruise lines charge a mandatory hotel service fee, also known as gratuities. These fees cover the services of your room attendant, who cleans your cabin and makes your bed, as well as dining staff and other crew members who work behind the scenes to make your stay comfortable.

All guests are automatically charged a daily hotel service fee, which is added to your onboard account. This fee is typically not included in the base fare and accrues each day of your cruise.

For example, on our 5-night cruise, we were charged $80 in total for hotel service fees (about $16 per night, per person), plus any additional import taxes. These fees can vary by cruise line and itinerary, so it’s important to check the current rates before you sail.

One of the most confusing parts of cruising for first-timers is keeping track of how much you owe at the end of your trip. Onboard spending can add up quickly, so regularly check your account balance using the cruise app or guest services desk.

For example, if I decide to buy a souvenir—like a model of the MSC Meraviglia for $79—you simply tap your cruise card at the shop, and the amount of $79 is added to your onboard account. The same process applies to spa treatments, shore excursions, and specialty dining.

At the end of your cruise, if my total balance is $180.77, that’s the amount I’ll owe. If I’ve linked a credit or debit card, this balance of $180.77 will be automatically charged to my card on the night before or the morning of disembarkation.

By disembarkation day, your balance should be $0 if your card has been charged successfully. Be sure to check your final statement, which is typically delivered to your stateroom or available in the cruise app, to ensure all charges are correct.

If your card fails to process or you haven’t linked one, you’ll need to settle your account at guest services before you can leave the ship. This can be done with a debit card or another accepted payment method.

Disembarkation information

Disembarkation day can be one of the most hectic parts of a cruise, with thousands of passengers all trying to get off the ship and collect their luggage at once. On my last cruise, I opted for the “walk off” program, which meant I kept my luggage with me in my stateroom overnight instead of leaving it outside for collection. This allowed me to avoid the crowds at the baggage claim area and head straight out of the terminal at my own pace. If you’re able to manage your bags yourself, I highly recommend this approach.

On the morning of disembarkation, December 2, 2023, our assigned departure time was 9:15 a.m. Despite arriving on time, we found ourselves in a sea of passengers, all eager to leave. The line for the gangway snaked through the ship’s hallways, and patience quickly became essential.

When we disembarked at the Brooklyn cruise terminal, those who had left their luggage out the night before faced a long wait—nearly 2 hours—to retrieve their bags. My parents and younger brother were among them, and the crowd in the baggage area was overwhelming. Watching the lines, I was relieved I’d chosen to carry my own luggage off the ship.

After the lengthy process, we finally made it home around 1 p.m.—exhausted from the wait, but grateful to be back.

My advice: If you’re physically able to handle your own bags, use the walk off program and keep your luggage with you on the last night. This can save you hours of waiting and help you get home sooner. Only leave luggage out if you can’t manage it yourself.

Avoid elevators on disembarkation morning if possible—they’re usually packed and slow. Take the stairs if you can, carrying your luggage down to the disembarkation deck. Don’t forget to keep your cruise card handy: You’ll need it to officially check out and exit the ship.

Many people wonder what to do with their cruise card after the trip. Cruise lines don’t typically reuse them due to cybersecurity risks, so passengers are encouraged to keep them as souvenirs. I like to save mine as a memento from each cruise—it’s a fun way to remember your adventures at sea.

Many cruise lines don’t want used cards, so you can keep them as souvenirs, citing that reusing them poses a cybersecurity risk. Surprise.

You can keep it as a souvenir of the trip.

~Updated on December 2025

Reference:

5 Reasons Why Cruising Is Exploding In Popularity With Travelers Right Now. 2023, June 3. Travel Off Path. Retrieved from https://www.traveloffpath.com/5-reasons-why-cruising-is-exploding-in-popularity-with-travelers-right-now/