Hurricane season notwithstanding, cruise vacations really get chugging in June. Whether you’re a seagoing veteran or a lifelong landlubber, ensure you and your shipmates enjoy smooth sailing by heeding these gentle admonishments.
DO
• Do remember three words when packing for your cruise: modesty, comfort, and elegance. Also refer to your cruise line for suggestions and guidelines. The very best things you can pack are good manners and a positive attitude.
• Do trust the system. Follow the rules for embarkation, debarkation, customs, and provisions. The cruise personnel have it down to a science.
• Do what’s right in the tipping category. Ask your onboard concierge or go to www.cruisetip.tpkeller.com for proper gratuities distribution. Some cruise lines factor in tips with your ticket. Many don’t. Budget accordingly.
• Do try to use the stairs. Elevators usually have long lines, and walking will help keep you in shape. If you do use the elevators, let people get off before you try to board.
• Do make 3 copies of your airline and cruise ticket, passport/visa, and itinerary. Place one in your carry on, another in your checked luggage, and the third at home. You can also scan the documents to yourself so that you can access them from any computer away from home.
• Do take the time to read the cruise newsletter that is slipped under your door nightly. It highlights everything you want to know, from tomorrow’s weather, to shipboard activities, excursions, local shopping deals and more.
DON’T
• Don’t call it a boat. It’s a ship and it’s a she not a he. Don’t forget your basic nautical terms. Port is the left side, starboard is right, bow is forward, and stern is the rear.
• Don’t underestimate the importance of the lifeboat safety drill. It’s not a time to make jokes about the orange life vest fighting with the color of your outfit. Pay attention. It could save your life.
• Don’t sleep late if you plan on having a great seat by the pool. Early risers get those coveted pool side loungers.
• Don’t be a cruise stalker. It’s OK to meet for a swim or game of poker, but don’t latch onto your new friend for the entire trip.
• Don’t wear jeans on formal night even if you did pay $350 dollars for them.
• Don’t ask to speak to the captain if you have a problem. The cruise personnel include competent officers and crew members to deal with all situations.
• Don’t forget to pack an extra collapsible bag to bring home the treasures you’ve collected on your odyssey at sea.
• Don’t skip dinner on your last night to avoid tipping your head waiter and wait staff. You want to honor the people that have worked hard to give you great service and also give them a proper goodbye.
