Preparing for a cruise

A cruise is different from a land based vacation in many ways. Firstly, you have to consider that your accommodation is mobile. Your ship is both a floating hotel, and a transportation method. This brings with it some unique requirements. Firstly, you must ensure that you have all the proper documentation to board the ship. This means checking your passport is up to date and that you meet all the visa requirements for the countries in which your ship will be calling. Many first-time cruisers and even some seasoned travellers have been caught out by this. Check with your cruise line when booking your trip.

Another thing to keep in mind dress code aboard the ship. Some cruise lines are stepping away from formal nights and relaxing their dress code; but many cruises still feature rules on what is acceptable in the main dining room. So men, while you may not have to don your dinner jacket, make sure you pack some dress pants/trousers, a jacket, and a tie; ladies have a dress or smart casual attire at the ready. Expect to be turned away politely if you are wearing shorts or a t-shirt. Open shoes such as flip-flops and sandals; as well as any pool-attire are a definite no-no and you can expect to be dining at the buffet, or in your stateroom for the evening.

With all of that being said, try not to over-pack. Many ships do offer laundry facilities but often at a charge. Bring clothes that can be mixed and matched together to create different outfits for your activities. With airlines charging more and more for baggage; it pays to travel light anyway.

There’s a lot more that you can and should do before you arrive at the port, but most of all you should be prepared to enjoy your trip!