A quick, honest rundown of what your first cruise actually looks like — from packing to embarkation day to your first morning at sea.
Before you go
Complete online check-in with your cruise line (see Pre-Register with Cruise Lines) and print or save your boarding documents.
Double-check your travel documents — see Know Before You Go for passport and ID requirements.
Pack layers — ships run cool indoors even in warm destinations, and evenings on deck can be breezy.
Bring a small day bag for embarkation day, since checked luggage won't reach your cabin for a few hours.
Pack any prescription medication, chargers and valuables in your carry-on, not checked luggage.
If you get seasick easily, bring motion sickness remedies and ask us about cabin location — midship, lower decks feel the least motion.
Embarkation day
Arrive at your assigned check-in time — arriving earlier doesn't get you onboard faster, and later arrivals can mean longer lines.
You'll go through a security screening and check-in process similar to an airport, then board and receive a wallet card or QR code that acts as your room key, onboard charge card and photo ID.
Your cabin usually isn't ready right when you board — head to the buffet for lunch and explore the ship while you wait.
A mandatory safety drill happens before departure. It's short, and every passenger is required to attend.
Checked luggage is delivered to your cabin over the next several hours — it may not be there right away.
Onboard basics
Most dining, entertainment and activities are included in your cruise fare. Specialty restaurants, alcohol, spa services and some excursions cost extra.
Gratuities are typically added as a daily per-person charge automatically — we'll walk you through exactly what's included when you book.
Wi-Fi is available but usually costs extra and can be slower than you're used to on land — consider a plan in advance if you need to stay connected.
Your daily schedule of activities, dining times and port information is delivered to your cabin or through the cruise line's app each evening.
Cell phone service at sea runs through the ship's onboard network and can be expensive — check with your carrier or use airplane mode with Wi-Fi calling.
In port
Bring your ship ID card, a form of photo ID, and a little local cash whenever you go ashore.
Note your ship's "all aboard" time before you leave the ship — the ship will not wait if you're late and not on an official ship-sponsored excursion.
Book excursions through us or the cruise line for the easiest re-boarding guarantees, especially on tight port days.
Disembarkation
You'll get a disembarkation time and luggage color tag a day or two before the end of your cruise — set out your bags the night before as instructed.
Keep essentials, medication and valuables with you rather than in checked luggage overnight.
Leave extra time on disembarkation morning — it moves in waves and can take longer than boarding did.
Still have questions before you sail?
We've got you — reach out any time and we'll walk you through it.
