Time for a cruise?

Are you interested in a cruise for your next vacation? We have enjoyed all of our cruises and we have learned a lot of do's and don'ts throughout our vacations. Below are some items to keep in mind on the first day of your cruise.

Timing is everything. DO plan to arrive to the port a little early, unless you have a pre-assigned boarding time. There will be hundreds to thousands of fellow travelers squeezing into the gangway throughout the first morning of your vacation. While you're in the terminal, you can make your last phone calls, organize your carry-on, use the facilities, and grab a snack or drink. If you prefer, you can stroll in closer to the end of the embarkation time. The lines are shorter, and your wait-time will be less.
DO bring a carry on bag. Since your luggage will not arrive to your cabin until later in the day, bring a carry on with all you will need to enjoy the first afternoon of your cruise. Some of the items in thing bag could be your valuables, tech stuff/cameras, medications and maybe a change of clothes if you plan to hop into the pool.
Papers please. With the pressure of hundreds of travelers behind you, fumbling in your bags for your paperwork is the last thing you want to do. DO have your boarding passes, passports, travel visas, and other required documentation in your hands.
DON'T expect to go to your cabin right away. Most cruise lines are still busy cleaning the cabins from the cruises who left that day. DO spend the that time to explore the ship, have your first drink or get a bite to eat from the buffet. The cruise line will announce when your cabins are ready.
DO meet your cabin steward. When you get the all clear to go to your cabin, make sure to meet with your steward or attendant. They not only clean your room twice a day but they can also help you with any requests like more hangers or extra towels. DON'T forget that they are also very knowledgeable when it comes to insider tips and tricks.
These are just a few ideas to help you with your first day on a cruise ship. We just want you to be prepared and have a great time on your vacation.DO check the cruise planner. All cruise lines have some type of daily planner or newsletter placed in your cabin each day. It will contain a schedule of events for the day, entertainment options, and hours for the gym, spa and restaurants. Bring a highlighter to mark which activities you would like to attend.