🛳️ First Time Cruise? Here’s EXACTLY What to Expect (Without Looking Like a Total Noob)
You finally booked that cruise! Excitement? ✅ Nerves? Also ✅. Don’t worry — we’ve got your back. This first-timer guide will help you feel prepared, confident, and cruise-ready like a pro.
We’re Adam & Mary from Holletts at Sea, and we’ve helped thousands of new cruisers shake off their fears and set sail without stress. In this post (and video 👇), we walk through everything you need to know before your first cruise.
🎥 Watch the full video: First Time Cruise – What to Expect
📄 Must-Have Cruise Documents
You don’t want to be *that person* turned away at the port. Here’s what to bring:
- Passport (or birth certificate + gov’t-issued photo ID for U.S. closed-loop cruises)
- Boarding pass (printed or in app)
- Luggage tags (print and attach before port day)
- Health/vaccine documents if required
🛟 Should You Get Cruise Insurance?
In a word: YES. Cruise insurance can cover last-minute cancellations, medical emergencies, lost bags, and more. We once had a trip nearly derailed and insurance saved us hundreds.
💸 What’s Included vs. What’s Not
Included: Main dining room meals, buffets, water/tea/coffee, entertainment, pools, and even 24/7 ice cream machines 🍦
Not Included: Alcohol, soda, Wi-Fi, specialty dining, gratuities, photos, laundry (though some ships have self-serve options)
🍹 Should You Buy a Drink Package?
Depends. Are you a 5-cocktails-a-day kind of cruiser? Use tools like the Cruzely Drink Package Calculator to do the math.
- Alcohol packages: Best if you plan to drink daily
- Soda & specialty coffee: Good for families or caffeine fiends
- Tip: You can often bring a bottle of wine onboard 🍷
🌐 Cruise Wi-Fi Truth Bombs
It’s not always great — but it’s improving. Some options:
- Buy a basic plan for messaging/socials
- Use eSIMs like GigSky when in port
- AT&T, Verizon offer cruise day passes
- Pro Tip: Many ports have free Wi-Fi if you go exploring
🚨 Don’t Freak Out About the Muster Drill
This safety demo is quick and painless. Most cruise lines now let you watch a video and check in at your muster station. Easy peasy — don’t skip it!
🏖️ Booking Excursions: Smart vs. Smarter
- Cruise Line: Easy & guaranteed return to ship
- ShoreExcursionsGroup.com: Third-party with return guarantee + $1,000 coverage if delayed
- DIY: Most adventurous but know the risks
🧳 Must-Do Tips Before You Sail
- Check in online as soon as it opens
- Download the cruise line app and log in
- Do NOT pack your passport in your checked bag
- Wine must be packed in your carry-on (it goes through security)
🎒 Bonus Hacks That Make Life Easier
- Magnetic hooks (cabin walls are metal!)
- Over-the-door organizers for toiletries
- Lanyards for room cards
- Plastic luggage tag holders — the paper ones rip!
- Travel-sized cruise essentials
🎥 Watch the Full Video for More Tips
👉 First Time Cruise – What to Expect
💬 Let’s Chat!
🚢 First-time cruiser? Drop your biggest question below.
👨👩👧👦 Seasoned cruiser? What’s YOUR best tip for newbies?
And don’t forget to grab that free packing list 👇