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Taking your first cruise can feel overwhelming — new terminology, unfamiliar routines, and countless decisions. This guide consolidates everything you need to know, from booking to disembarkation, so you can focus on enjoying your voyage.
We've created detailed guides for every aspect of cruise planning. Start with these:
Embarkation ports, timing tips, and what to consider when booking your cruise.
Start PlanningWhat to bring, what to leave home, and cruise-specific essentials you might forget.
View ListsUnderstand what's included, what costs extra, and whether a package makes sense for you.
Learn MoreDetailed information on cruise ships, dining venues, entertainment, and amenities.
Browse ShipsWhat to do at each destination, from excursions to walking around on your own.
Explore PortsWondering about your cabin? Check for known issues like noise, vibration, or obstructed views.
Check CabinWiFi packages, costs, and tips for staying connected (or happily disconnected) while cruising.
Learn MoreHere's what to expect from booking through disembarkation:
Choose your ship, itinerary, and cabin. Book early for best prices and cabin selection. Consider travel insurance.
Fill out online check-in, upload passport photos, add emergency contacts. Set up the cruise line's app.
Book specialty dining, shows, and shore excursions through the app. Popular options sell out.
Use our packing lists. Put essentials in your carry-on — luggage may not arrive until evening.
Get to the port 1-2 hours before your boarding time. Explore the ship while it's quiet. Eat lunch — it's included!
Attend the muster drill (required). Find your dining room. Explore decks. Check the daily schedule in your cabin.
Sleep in, try activities, read by the pool. No port rush — enjoy the ship's amenities at your own pace.
Ship excursions or on your own — both work great. Be back 30+ minutes before departure time.
Leave bags outside your door by midnight. Keep essentials for the morning in a carry-on.
Breakfast is available. Self-assist (carry your own bags) leaves first. Follow your assigned time slot.
Included: Your cabin, main dining room meals, buffet, room service (most items), pools, entertainment, fitness center, and kids clubs. Extra cost: Specialty restaurants, alcoholic drinks, sodas, Wi-Fi, spa, casino, shore excursions, and gratuities (unless prepaid).
For cruises departing and returning to the same US port ("closed-loop"), US citizens can use a birth certificate + government ID. However, a passport is strongly recommended — if you miss the ship or have a medical emergency, you'll need one to fly home.
Modern cruise ships have stabilizers that minimize motion. Most people don't feel sick, but if you're prone to motion sickness: choose a midship cabin on a lower deck, bring medication or Sea-Bands, and focus on the horizon if you feel queasy.
Days are casual (shorts, swimsuits, sundresses). Evenings in the main dining room are "cruise casual" (nice pants, polo/blouse). Most ships have 1-2 "formal nights" where some guests dress up — but it's optional.
Link a credit card to your cruise card (SeaPass, Sail & Sign, etc.) during check-in. Your cruise card becomes your ID, room key, and payment method. Cash isn't used onboard except for casino and tips.
Most cruise lines allow you to bring a small amount of wine or champagne (usually 2 bottles per cabin) on embarkation day. Liquor is typically prohibited. Check your cruise line's specific policy.
If you're late returning from a port, the ship will leave without you. You're responsible for getting to the next port on your own. This is why ship-organized excursions are guaranteed — if they're late, the ship waits.
Yes, but it costs extra and is slower than land-based Wi-Fi. Packages range from $15-30/day. Consider disconnecting — or use port Wi-Fi for free at cafes. See our Internet at Sea guide.
Not sure which cruise line is right for you? Our Cruise Line Quiz matches you with lines from mainstream to ultra-luxury based on your travel style, budget, and preferences.
Generally, mainstream lines (Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian) are great for first-timers — they have something for everyone. Premium lines (Celebrity, Princess) offer more refined experiences. Luxury lines (Regent, Seabourn) are all-inclusive with intimate ships.
Once you've narrowed down cruise lines, our Ship Quiz helps you find specific ships that match your style.
Newer mega-ships offer more activities but bigger crowds. Smaller ships are quieter with more personal service.
Solo cruising is increasingly popular, and cruise lines have responded with dedicated solo cabins and meet-ups. Our Solo Cruising Guide covers everything from avoiding single supplements to making friends onboard.
