Perhaps you are a first-time cruiser and you are not quite sure what to expect or how best to prepare for your upcoming trip. One cruise lines motto is “the best vacation on Earth” and rest assured it is indeed one of the most fabulous in terms of food, entertainment, experiences, ports of call, sights, sightseeing, shopping, playing, relaxing, and much, much more.

However, there is a learning curve and once your maiden voyage is over you will be a much more savvy cruiser and sure to do at least some things differently the next time around. Although you will probably still find some things you can improve on next time, here are some tips to help you out a little now.

Tips From a Seasoned Cruiser

image11. Onboard activities – Although every port of call will offer a myriad of shore excursions, none are included in your cruise package and even though some are not overly expensive, there are some that can set you back a pretty penny and add greatly to the cost of your expedition. Many first-time cruisers are unaware of the dozens of daily activities available on board, which you will receive a list of under your cabin door daily and all are included in your fare. There are casinos, pool-side games, shows, trivia, bingo, karaoke, live music, deck parties, and more. One tip if you do intend to participate in some shore excursions, it is best to book these before you go since the most popular ones fill up fast.

2. Seasickness – Even if you are prone to seasickness on smaller vessels, cruise ships are specially equipped with stabilizer bars to tightly control the role of the ship to the extent it is most often difficult to even feel the motion of the ship at all except in extremely rough seas. However, it never hurts to be prepared and pack a small bag with headache meds and seasickness meds or wristbands. If you do forget to bring meds along, be advised that these are available onboard. Some people swear by the seasickness bands but if you prefer the pills make sure you choose the non-drowsy variety.

3. Beverages – Alcoholic beverages are not included in your cruise and beware of specialty drinks in souvenir glasses because the cost of these can add up quickly. However, if you like to enjoy a few drinks here and there, consider purchasing a beverage package that can save you some money over ala carte. In recent years, some lines have begun charging extra for soft drinks as well and you can also purchase a package for these. If you are not much of a drinker and prefer water to soda, you may be fine as is.

4. Room Service – This is one of the greatest perks of cruising – free room service morning, noon, and night. You can order 24/7 for delivery right to your cabin gratis but a small tip to your server is considered polite.

The Ultimate Checklist

Trying to remember what you know to do is hard enough, let alone the things you may not know that you need to do or the things that will make your trip easier. Thankfully, the internet is a lifesaver and there are many places to find and be able to print a planning checklist that covers all your needs from as far out as four months before you sail beginning with things you should do immediately after booking.

Driver2016-01-28 This is great for the list makers and the less organized as well because you can go step-by-step right up until your foot touches the gangplank including when to apply for a passport, when to book shore excursions, when to get any immunizations you may need, and even when to get up the morning of your trip.

And Don’t Forget This

One very important task that will be on your checklist to do approximately one week before your cruise is to locate port parking and directions if you are driving. Although there is parking at Miami cruise terminal, this is not necessarily the best option available even if just in terms of cost. Considering Miami cruise port parking rates, daily parking can add up quickly and unexpectedly eat into your trip funds and, in the end, it is not as secure as you might like.

Consider parking near port Miami at a secure gated location with 24 hours security at a much more affordable rate within walking distance and offering a free shuttle to and from your car. Safe Cruise Parking has an excellent reputation for safety, affordability, and amazing customer service. It’s your vacation; why not enjoy it with no worries, not even your car knowing it is safe and sound while you are away?