subject: Make Your Cruise More Enjoyable By Following These Suggestions [print this page] If youve never been on a cruise before, youre in for a treat. Cruises are relaxing vacation options because you dont have to do much planning, but you still get to travel to unique locations in total luxury. Plus, you can take advantage of a huge selection of fun or relaxing on-board activities. Follow these simple guidelines and tips to make your next cruise more enjoyable.
Research Cruise Ship Port Cities
When youre on a cruise, you should take the opportunity to go on port city shore excursions. Most cruises provide information about a few key locations near the dock so you can check out fun things to do, shopping areas and restaurants. But you can also take the time to book activities on your own. The ship provides basic information, but if you do some planning before you leave, you can book snorkeling lessons, travel to ancient ruin sites and more. You need to plan these things ahead of time, since port excursions are very limited in regards to time. If you try to find things to do when you reach the city, you wont have the opportunity for much more than a little exploring.
Get a Cruise Ship Itinerary
Cruise ships are huge, and even if you spend a day exploring, you may miss some hidden gems on board. On your first day, go to the information desk and talk to one of the staff members about activity recommendations. Most ships have maps and itineraries that you can use to take full advantage of on board activities. You might be surprised at some of the things there are to do while youre on vacation. From spa sessions, to cooking classes and personal sports lessons, the activity list is nearly endless.
Make New Friends on a Cruise Ship
Be friendly when youre on your cruise. Take a cue from your children. While at the pool or during one of the activities, they probably will make tons of friends. Although you may feel a bit shy at first, most people are very open to conversation on cruise ships. You can have dinner with new people, try activities together, and even share information youve found about the ship or the port cities youll be visiting. You might not make any new best friends on the cruise, but on the other hand, you could be surprised at how many nice people you meet. They can make your time aboard the ship that much more enjoyable.
Prevent Illness on a Cruise Ship
Seasickness is a common concern, but most people who feel ill recover in about a day. The ship should have plenty of medication to help you feel better, but if you know that youre prone to motion sickness, you should also bring some of your own.
In addition, dont forget sunscreen. If you want to lay in the sun and tan, thats fine, but if you burn, you could easily get sun poisoning, which can ruin the rest of your trip. Be smart about your time in the sun, keeping in mind that many cruises head to areas of the world that are much closer to the equator than where you live, meaning that youll burn faster. Taking a few small precautions can make a huge difference, for the trip and for your long-term health.
Explore New Activities on a Cruise Ship
Some people may not try activities because it means going alone, wearing a swimsuit in public, or otherwise potentially looking foolish. Try not to limit yourself too much! Other people will be in the same boat (no pun intended). Try to branch out, keeping in mind that youll likely never get the same chances again. This is a great opportunity to let loose and step outside your normal comfort zone. If you find that youre not having fun at swing-dancing class, or are too self-conscious to try water aerobics, simply leave to explore other activities. On cruise ships, you can come and go as you please, so its the perfect time to try something new.
Take Advantage of Cruise Ship Childcare
Just because youre on vacation with your family or friends doesnt mean that you have to do everything together. Most cruise ships have activities just for children. You can drop off the kids with childcare professionals and then take some time to enjoy activities that might not cater to children.
If youre on the cruise with your partner or friends, also keep in mind that it is ok to enjoy time apart. If you want to see a ballet program while your spouse wants to check out the pool, have fun on your own and agree to meet up later. That way you can both make the most of the trip.
