Seasoned cruisers say you should know these 8 things before setting foot on your first cruise
· Business Insider
Joey Hadden/Business Insider
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- Taking your first cruise can be overwhelming, with so many things to do on board and at port stops.
- To help you prepare, seasoned cruisers on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas shared their tips.
- They said you should snag pool chairs early and avoid flying in on the day your ship departs.
It feels like no one talks about how overwhelming a cruise can be if you've never taken one before.
First-time cruisers experience an entirely new form of transportation. When you're traveling on a large ship with so many places to eat and so many activities and excursions, it can be hard to figure out how to spend your time.
It may help to hear from travelers who have done it before about how to make the most of your cruise.
While on board Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in April 2022, Business Insider spoke to people who had been on multiple cruises. They shared their best tips to help plan an incredible cruise vacation.
While packing for a cruise, try to keep it light, but make sure you have all the essentials.Seasoned cruisers say to pack only what you need.Joey Hadden/Business Insider
Sharon Taylor, a frequent cruiser, told Business Insider that first-timers should avoid overpacking.
"New cruisers think cruising is a fashion show and pack way too many clothes and shoes, but you wind up just wanting to be comfortable," she said.
For her seven-night cruise on board the Wonder of the Seas, Taylor said she packed six tops, four pairs of shorts, two pairs of shoes, one formal outfit, two bathing suits, and eight pairs of underwear. She planned to buy two more tops on the trip.
Paul Gallifrey, who told Business Insider in 2022 that he'd been on 30 cruises, said to pack what you need for the length of the cruise and add an extra outfit just in case.
"Maybe you decide to change clothes between pool time and the buffet," Gallifrey said. "An extra shirt and pair of shorts will come in handy."
Gallifrey added that some activities on ships and excursions require specific clothing, such as lace-up shoes for zip lining. Check the cruise line's website for these requirements and pack accordingly.
Don't forget to pack a magnet to make it easier to find your stateroom.