If you're anything like me, the idea of hopping on a cruise ship with endless food, uber interesting stops, and zero responsibilities sounds like absolute heaven.
Let’s be honest though—getting to that blissful moment takes a bit of prep. So, if you're gearing up for your own sea-bound adventure or thinking of planning one, here’s a behind-the-scenes peek at the pre-cruise madness I go through every time (and some helpful tips I wish I’d had before my first one).
Paperwork Check & Coordination: The Not-So-Fun but Super Important Bit
Before you start dreaming of cool drinks and poolside naps, do a serious paperwork check.
First up: passports. Make sure yours isn’t expiring within six months of your travel date, or you might get turned away before you even set sail (seriously).
Then there’s the cruise boarding pass, health declarations (some still ask for these), and visas if you’re stopping in certain countries.
Pro tip: Print everything and also take screenshots. Internet access can let you down just when you need it most.
The Battle of the Overpackers
Packing for a cruise is like trying to predict the mood swings of the ocean—one minute it’s sunny, next minute you’re in a wind tunnel. The trick is layers, hot or cold destinations it doesn’t matter.
You also need a small carry-on for your embarkation day because your luggage might not arrive at your cabin until later. Pack your swimsuit in that bag so you can hit the pool straight away and chill with that cool drink (if it’s cold have a coffee and take yourself on a ship’s tour to get your bearings!).
Cruise cabins are not exactly spacious; I use packing cubes and have done for years. You don’t even have to unpack them just put them in the drawers as they are. Helps with repacking too. Take a power strip or an international adaptor that has USB sockets for your tech (non-surge protected ones are usually allowed).
Other essentials are sunscreen, meds, and—trust me on this—anti-nausea tablets. Even if you’ve got an iron stomach, those first few hours can be... interesting. I have been cruising over 25 years and in that time I have used them 3/4 times but boy was I glad I packed them during those times.
Transport: The Scariest Part of the Journey
The cruise ship will not wait for you. I repeat: it. will. not. wait. So please, if you're flying in, arrive a day early. It might cost a bit more for the hotel, but it’s worth it for peace of mind. Book transport to the terminal ahead of time—don't rely on finding a random taxi the morning of embarkation. That kind of stress is not what you want for the first day of your holiday. If you can, and for your first trip try and buy a package with flights and transfers, then all the worry of travel is taken from you.
Clothing: Swimsuits, Sandals, and That One Fancy Outfit
Cruise life is all about comfort during the day—think sundresses, shorts, flip flops—but most ships have at least one formal night. A nice dress or separates that you can mix and match for evenings again is very versatile.
Choosing & Organising Excursions: So Many Options, So Little Time
This is where the fun begins! Look through the excursions offered by the cruise line, but also check out third-party ones—they’re often cheaper and more personalized. Book early though; the popular ones sell out fast.
Try to mix active days (excursions) with chill ones (relax by the pool) so you don’t wear yourself out. And whatever you do, make sure you're back before the ship leaves port. That "left behind" YouTube video could be about you!
Bon Voyage!
Once you're finally on board, your first cocktail in hand, you’ll forget all the madness that went into getting there. Cruises are the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—just make sure you pack with a little prep and patience and don’t forget your flip-flops.
Now go chase that horizon! Where are you going next?
