Did you know, by 2027, it’s estimated that the cruising industry will be worth a whopping $57 billion? There’s good reason why people love spending their hard-earned money on cruises, as these types of vacations tend to offer an experience unparalleled by no other.
Considering a relaxing vacation on the open seas? Here are three pro tips on how to enjoy your cruise to the fullest.
1. Make Use of Vacation Planners
While it may sound tedious to research different cruise options to prepare for your upcoming vacation, know that you’ll need to do so before embarking on the vacation of your dreams. In fact, there are a number of things to consider, including:
- The size of the ship you want to sail on
- The ports of call you want to visit
- The on-board activities you want to experience
That’s just the tip of the iceberg. But, as you can see, there’s a fair bit to think about. This is where making good use of vacation planners makes logical sense, so make it a point to consult with travel agents and/or check out any number of Alaska cruise packages via Princess.com to get the most bang for your buck.
2. Pack Wisely
As you pack your suitcase, there are two things you need to consider:
- Your ports of call
- The number of days you’re at sea
If you plan to explore ports of call with varying climates, then packing a couple different layers is essential. Be sure to remember that as you pack your bags. You’ll also need to be mindful of any dress codes in the ship’s dining rooms, as certain restaurants require formal wear. Don’t be caught off guard.
Bonus Tip: Bring all the essentials, including toiletries, a phone charger, snacks and an outfit or two, inside your carry-on bag, as it may take several hours for the rest of your luggage to arrive at your room.
3. Mix Things Up
The beauty of cruising is the sheer variety of activities and entertainment available to you. So, don’t limit yourself by eating in the same restaurants and dining halls every day. In fact, most cruise lines offer tons of eateries for you to choose from and you typically can pick from several different meal options at dinner.
Pro Tip: Hunt around for special offers. As a general rule, most onboard restaurants provide deals to travelers who choose to dine away from the central dining hall on the first night. So, ask about this upon your arrival. Who knows, maybe you’ll get to enjoy a free bottle of bubbly?
Ready to Enjoy the Cruise of a Lifetime?
After reviewing these tips, it’s our hope you now feel better prepared before embarking on your next cruise. Be confident that by following the above advice, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. All that’s left for you to do is enjoy everything your cruise has to offer.
