20 Mistakes You Should Avoid While Cruising, According to Cruise Ship Employees

Cruise ship employees have seen it all—the epic vacations, the big adventures, and yes, the awkward mistakes travelers make at sea. From forgotten essentials to breaking unspoken ship rules, even the most excited cruisers can slip up and accidentally put a damper on their trip. These helpful tips, straight from people who actually work on cruise ships, can keep your cruise from going off course.

With insider advice from cruise staff, you’ll learn what to pack (hint: sunscreen makes the list), how to make the most of every meal, and which cringe-worthy mistakes to dodge. Whether it’s your very first cruise or you’re practically a pro, these tips make it easy to relax, have fun, and avoid those embarrassing moments. Ready to cruise like a boss? Let’s dive in!

Booking Late

Waiting until the last minute to book your cruise might sound like a thrill, but it can seriously backfire. Popular cruise lines and destinations fill up fast, especially during holiday seasons or school breaks. By the time you’re ready to snag a ticket, you might find slim pickings or higher prices. Plus, booking late could leave you scrambling for decent cabin options—no one wants to be stuck near the noisy engine rooms!

If you know you want that dream cruise, aim to book early. Cruise lines often offer better prices and more perks when tickets first go on sale. You’ll have the chance to choose the perfect cabin and even get some cool extras like onboard credits. It’s all about planning ahead so you can skip the stress and focus on imagining yourself lounging by the pool instead!

Forgetting to Ask About Upgrades

Skipping the chance to ask for an upgrade is like walking past a dessert table without even taking a peek. Many travelers don’t realize that unoccupied rooms, including more spacious or fancier ones, might still be available when the ship is getting ready to depart. If you arrive and never ask, you’ll never know if you could’ve snagged a better cabin for little to no extra cost.

Here’s the deal—asking politely doesn’t hurt. Talk to a crew member once you’re on board or at check-in and see what’s possible. Sometimes, they’ll make magic happen, especially if you mention celebrating something special like a birthday or an anniversary. Even in cases where upgrades aren’t possible, staff often try to make your trip a little extra fun in other ways. The key is simple: be kind and don’t forget to ask!

No Carry-On? Big Mistake

Checking in your suitcase and thinking you’re good to go might seem easy, but it can be a rookie mistake on a cruise. Your main luggage won’t magically follow you to your room—it’ll take hours, sometimes even until late evening, to get delivered. Meanwhile, you’re left empty-handed if you didn’t pack a carry-on. Want to hit the pool right away or grab some sunscreen before stepping on deck? Without a day bag, you might be stuck waiting and missing out on the fun.

Here’s the fix—pack smart! Throw essentials like a swimsuit, sunscreen, medication, and even a comfy change of clothes into a good-sized carry-on. Bonus points if you pack flip-flops and snacks too! Having these right at your side means no more sitting around or sweating the little stuff. You’ll be ready to jump straight into cruise mode the moment you step on board.

Forgetting to Be Kind to the Crew

Cruise ship crew members work tirelessly to make your vacation amazing, often juggling long hours and countless requests. Being rude or dismissive to them not only dampens the mood but can also mean missing out on those little extras that make a trip special. Whether it’s a simple smile or a “thank you,” kindness goes a long way. Remember, they’re people too, not robots programmed to serve without feeling.

Instead of snapping over small inconveniences, try approaching the crew with patience and understanding. If something’s wrong, let them know politely—they’re more likely to go the extra mile for someone who treats them with respect. A friendly attitude can turn a good cruise into a great one, and who knows? You might even get insider tips or a little extra attention that makes your trip unforgettable.