Don’t Miss the Boat—Literally or Figuratively!

Once cruising is back on your calendar, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of tropical drinks and ocean breezes. But before you raise that bon voyage toast on deck, make sure you’ve handled the details that can make—or break—your cruise experience.

First and foremost: timing is everything. Arriving at your departure port the day before your cruise is a smart move. Delayed flights, traffic jams, or canceled connections can quickly turn a dream vacation into a missed opportunity. A hotel stay may cost a bit extra, but the peace of mind is worth every penny.

Once onboard, remember moderation matters. The drink packages are tempting, but pacing yourself will help you avoid becoming that person on the lido deck—and ensure you actually remember your vacation.

Next up: travel insurance. Cruising without it is risky. Most domestic health insurance doesn’t cover you internationally, and delays or cancellations can come with hefty costs. A good policy protects your trip—and your wallet.

Speaking of protection, cruising without a passport is another gamble. While some closed-loop cruises don’t require one, an unexpected emergency at a foreign port could leave you stranded or scrambling to get home.

And before you step foot on the ship, turn off data roaming and switch to airplane mode. International roaming charges can be sky-high, even if you’re not actively using your phone. Save yourself the shock when your bill arrives.

Once at port, don’t lose track of time. The ship waits for no one. If you're late, you're on your own to reach the next stop or get home—and without a passport, that gets messy fast. Aim to return to the ship at least an hour before departure.

Food-wise, don’t limit yourself to the buffet. While convenient, you’ll miss the exceptional meals and service in the main dining room or specialty restaurants. Cruise dining is an experience—savor it.

Tip your crew, and tip them well. Most cruise lines add gratuities automatically, but opting out sends the wrong message. These hardworking professionals make your vacation seamless, often while working long hours away from family.

And while you're at it, treat the crew with respect. A kind word goes a long way for someone who’s serving with a smile seven days a week. A little kindness costs nothing and means everything.

Finally, be smart when booking your flight home. Even if your ship docks at 7 a.m., catching a flight before noon is risky at best. Customs, disembarkation lines, and security checkpoints can take longer than expected. Plan your return with plenty of buffer so your last day feels like vacation—not a race.

Cruising is one of the most relaxing ways to travel—but only when it's done right. Keep these tips in mind and you'll be smooth sailing from start to finish. Ready to start planning? Let us help you make your next cruise unforgettable.