Every day, more and more people are discovering the all-inclusive pleasures of a cruise vacation. More singles, families, couples, honeymooners, second honeymooners and groups of friends are sailing away on the vacation of their lives. Last year alone approximately seven million people enjoyed a cruise vacation. To ensure you have a smooth trip, consider these cruise tips, including what to pack on a cruise, what to bring on a cruise and more. And as always, remember to consult with a travel agent for your next cruise to ensure you have the best experience possible.
- Check what sort of identification you need when traveling to your destinations.
- Notify the cruise ship of any special dietary restrictions or requests at least 60 days prior to departure.
- Leave copies of your passport, airline tickets, travelers cheques and credit cards with a family member or a friend.
- Discuss your travel plans with a doctor. Some countries may require certain immunizations. Bring any immunization records with you.
- If you tend to get motion sickness, see your doctor prior to departure for recommendations. Dramamine and patches often work to curb seasickness.
- It may be easier to email friends and family members back home if you have established a Web-based email account, such as Gmail, Hotmail, or Yahoo beforehand.
- If you are flying to your departure port, check and confirm your airline reservation 24 hours prior to departure.
- If you have an ongoing medical condition, ask your family doctor to write up your brief medical history, which you can take with you and provide in the event of a problem.
- Check your cruise ticket and verify its information.
- Check your airline ticket and verify its information.
- If you book cruise only, you are responsible for getting to the ship from the airport. Some parking facilities offer shuttles.
- If you plan to bring a hair dryer or an electric razor, check the cabin voltage. You may need an adapter.
- Give relatives and friends the ship’s telephone number, in case of an emergency.
- If you booked an air/sea package through a cruise line and you missed the ship because of late/cancelled flight, most cruise lines will get you to the next port.
- Arrive at the embarkation area at least two hours prior to sailing.
- Complete the immigration/embarkation and the onboard credit card application forms before you register at the check-in desk
- Don’t purchase duty-free alcohol to take onboard. It is confiscated until the last day of the cruise.
- Purchase some guidebooks so you can read about the ports of call you will be visiting.
- If you plan on scuba diving, consider becoming certified before you embark on the cruise. You’ll save time and money.