Going on your first cruise is exciting—and a little overwhelming. From choosing the right cabin to figuring out shore excursions, cruising comes with its own set of rules and rhythms that are different from other types of travel. The good news? Once you know what to expect, cruising is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to travel. These first-time cruise tips will help you feel prepared, avoid common mistakes, and actually relax once you step onboard.
Quick Answer: First-Time Cruise Tips
If it’s your first cruise, book the right cabin, arrive a day early, plan excursions ahead of time, budget for extras, and don’t skip travel insurance. Cruises are easy once you understand how they work—but preparation makes all the difference.
Choose the Right Cabin (It Matters More Than You Think)
Not all cruise cabins are created equal. Your room choice can impact your comfort, sleep, and overall experience. These are important to the overall experience you’ll have during your cruise.
What first-time cruisers should know:
- Inside cabins are cheapest but have no windows.
- Oceanview cabins offer natural light without the cost of a balcony.
- Balcony cabins are great if you want fresh air and private views.
- Mid-ship cabins on lower decks tend to feel more stable if you’re worried about seasickness.
Pro tip: If you’re sensitive to motion, avoid cabins near the front or back of the ship.
Arrive the Day Before Your Cruise Departs
This is one of the most important first-time cruise tips—and one many people learn the hard way.
Cruise ships don’t wait for delayed flights. If weather or airline issues cause you to miss embarkation, you’re responsible for catching up with the ship.
Arriving a day early to your port of call:
- Gives you time to explore the departure city
Pro Tip: Travel insurance can help cover the cost to catch you up with your cruise if you miss the departure under a benefit called Missed Connection.
Cruises Are “All-Inclusive”… But Not Everything Is Included
Many first-time cruisers are surprised by what costs extra onboard.
Often included:
Usually extra:
- Spa services and gratuities
Pro Tip: Review your cruise line’s inclusions ahead of time so you can budget realistically.
Shore Excursions: Book Early or Go Independent (Carefully)
Cruise excursions can sell out quickly—especially popular ones. We recommend booking your excursions soon after securing your cruise and most definitely before you sail.
You have two options:
- Book through the cruise line (more expensive, but ship-won’t-leave-you peace of mind)
- Book independently (often cheaper, but higher risk if delays occur)
If you go independent, build in extra buffer time and be sure to also book through reputable tour companies for a safer experience.
Expect Limited Cell Service (and Spotty Wi-Fi)
Once you’re at sea, your phone may:
- Switch to expensive maritime roaming
Most cruise lines offer Wi-Fi packages, but speeds vary. Don’t expect internet speeds like you’re used to at home, even with these packages. Download maps, reservations, and travel documents before boarding.
Pack Smart (Cruises Have Their Own Rules)
Cruises have stricter packing guidelines than many vacations.
Don’t forget:
- Formal or themed night attire (if applicable)
- Comfortable walking shoes for ports
- Required travel documents (passport, visas if needed)
Also, check your cruise line’s list of prohibited items. Things like irons and surge protectors are often not allowed.
Pro Tip: Cruises don’t offer sea-sickness patches or wristbands, but do usually have basic medications for sale. Some cruises offer ginger ale and green apples at buffets or room service options. It’s best to bring your own products to ensure you’re feeling your best on the cruise.
Understand How Cruise Travel Insurance Works (This Is a Big One)
Many first-time cruisers assume the insurance offered by the cruise line is the best—or only—option. That’s not always true.
Cruise Line Insurance vs. Third-Party Travel Insurance
Insurance offered by the cruise line is convenient, but it’s often limited.
Cruise line–offered insurance typically:
- Covers only the cruise portion of your trip
- Offers lower medical and evacuation limits
- Reimburses cancellations as cruise credit (not cash)
- Has fewer covered reasons to cancel
Third-party travel insurance (like plans available through Yonder):
- Covers your entire trip (flights, hotels, excursions, cruise)
- Offers higher medical and medical evacuation limits
- Includes more covered cancellation reasons
- May offer upgrades like Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR)
If you’re cruising internationally—or flying to your port—standalone travel insurance is usually the stronger option. You can read a deeper comparison in our guide to cruise insurance vs. travel insurance.
Medical Care at Sea Is Limited (and Expensive)
Cruise ships have medical facilities, but they’re not hospitals—and they’re not free.
If you need serious treatment, medical evacuation from a ship can cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. Most regular health insurance plans don’t cover international or maritime care.
First-time cruiser takeaway: Medical and evacuation coverage isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Pace Yourself (Cruise Burnout Is Real)
There’s a lot happening onboard, and it’s tempting to do everything. You don’t have to.
Build in downtime, enjoy sea days, and remember: you don’t need to “win” the cruise. The best cruises are balanced, not packed.
Key Takeaways for First-Time Cruisers
- Cruises are easy once you understand how they work—but preparation matters.
- Arriving early and choosing the right cabin can prevent major headaches.
- Not everything onboard is included, so budget ahead of time.
- Travel insurance is especially important for cruises due to medical, evacuation, and cancellation risks.
- Third-party travel insurance usually offers better protection than cruise line policies.
FAQ: First-Time Cruise Tips
Is cruising a good vacation for first-time travelers? Yes. Cruises are beginner-friendly because accommodations, meals, and transportation are bundled. This eliminates planning where you’re sleeping, where you’re eating, and how you’re gettting to all your destinations.Once you understand the basics, they’re one of the easiest ways to travel.
Do I need a passport for my first cruise? It depends on the itinerary. Some closed-loop cruises allow alternative documents, but a passport is strongly recommended for most cruises (especially if visiting international destinations).
How much money should I budget for extras on a cruise? Many first-time cruisers spend extra on drinks, excursions, Wi-Fi, and gratuities. Budget a few hundred dollars per person beyond your cruise fare.
Is cruise line travel insurance enough? Often no. Cruise line insurance usually has lower medical limits and fewer covered cancellation reasons. Third-party travel insurance, like that on Yonder Travel Insurance, typically provides broader coverage and cash reimbursement.
What’s the biggest mistake first-time cruisers make? Arriving the day of departure and skipping travel insurance. Both can turn small delays into major, expensive problems.
Are you an experienced cruiser with tips to share? Connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram (@insureyonder)!
Kate's authoritative voice in travel writing is backed by years of extensive travel experience, allowing her to infuse her writing with the tips and tricks she has gathered over time. This wealth of experience enhances her ability to write authoritatively on travel-related topics.
