Setting sail on a cruise is an exciting adventure, promising relaxation, exploration, and delicious food. But navigating the social seas can be just as crucial as smooth sailing. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone onboard, savvy cruisers swear by a few unspoken rules. Let’s dive into our top 11 tips to transform you from a cruise newbie to a seasoned pro – because calm seas and happy shipmates make for the best voyage ever!
No Open Bottle Rules
One of the most significant unspoken rules that can be a surprise to first-time cruisers is the no-open-bottle rule. This means that you can walk and drink wherever and whenever you want. This perk is excellent because you can bring your glass of wine from dinner to the captivating theater show. Also, you should note that after you’re done with dinner drinks, it’s a great way to skip the lines at crowded bars and order a to-go drink for your next adventure.
You Can Bring Wine Onboard
Many cruise lines let you BYOB (bring your own booze) at embarkation! Royal Caribbean allows a single sealed bottle of wine or bubbly per person, while Disney enables you to sneak on two. Always check allowance limits and restrictions with your cruise line before packing the party.
If you bring your prized vintage to the main dining room, be prepared for a corkage fee – a fancy term for a service charge. Here’s the savvy move: grab some wine glasses from the bar (they won’t mind!), bring your corkscrew (or borrow one from your friendly cabin steward), and enjoy your vino in the comfort of your stateroom.
Your Wine Follows You
Many new cruisers don’t know that your wine will follow you on the ship. Unlike on land, your unfinished bottle of wine becomes your loyal shipmate. Didn’t finish it at dinner in the main dining room? No worries! Ask your server to store it, and enjoy the rest with your next meal – even at a specialty restaurant. Ordering by the bottle is usually cheaper, letting you take your vino on adventures throughout the ship!
Happy Hour Specials
Cruise lines offer daily happy hour deals on drinks, sometimes served in souvenir cups you can refill at a discount! Keep an eye out for beer bucket specials, too – buying in bulk saves you treasure, and with no open container rules, you can take your brews on the go!
Unlimited Ordering in the Main Dining Room
Unlike most restaurants, the main dining rooms of cruise ships are all about limitless deliciousness. Perhaps you’re craving mountains of shrimp cocktails? Order away! The beauty lies in creating your multi-course feast. Maybe you’re indecisive between appetizers? Heck, order them all! Most dishes are perfectly sized for exploration, allowing you to savor various flavors without feeling overwhelmed.
You Can Eat Multiple Times
One of the best things about cruise vacations? The food, of course! But unlike a typical all-inclusive resort with set mealtimes, cruise ships offer a treasure of dining options, and the best part is you’re not restricted to just one! Imagine this: you savor a tasty multi-course meal in the elegant Main Dining Room, followed by a captivating theater show. Are you feeling hungry after the applause? The ever-tempting buffet awaits, perfect for a late-night snack. It’s entirely up to you – no limitations, just endless possibilities to tantalize your taste buds.
You Can Preview the Main Dining Room Menu
Many people on a cruise think they’re in for a surprise regarding the main dining room. But that’s not the case; cruisers can preview the menu far in advance. Most cruise ships have a week of meals planned, so cruisers can decide which dining room is the most appetizing.
Alternative Free Sit-Down Restaurants
Many cruisers think buffets and fancy dining rooms are their only free eats. Several cruise lines offer hidden gems – complimentary casual eateries perfect for escaping the crowds on sea days. Imagine grabbing a free slice (or two!) of delicious pizza at Princess Cruises’ cozy trattoria or savoring some fish and chips at Norwegian’s complimentary Irish pub.
Free Food at Specialty Coffee Shops
Here’s a perk you might not know about: some specialty coffee shops onboard offer freebies beyond basic brews. While fancy lattes might cost extra, many shops allow you to refill your cup with drip coffee throughout the morning. This can be a lifesaver (or should we say, a ‘wake-me-up’) for early risers or those who crave a constant caffeine stream.
Customize your Bed Configuration
Are you not a fan of the standard twin setup? Many seasoned cruisers forget that a simple request to your cabin steward can transform your room. Most lines will happily convert those twins into a comfy king-size bed. Just let your friendly steward know your preference, and they’ll work magic to create a sleeping haven that suits your needs!
Cruise Ship Laundromat
Packing light is ideal, but who wants to wear the same clothes all week? Here’s a money-saving tip many cruisers miss: shipboard laundromats! Perfect for families or longer voyages, these hidden gems let you wash your clothes for a fraction of the laundry service cost.
Bottom Line
From free eats to flexible sleeping arrangements and secret laundry hacks, you can now navigate the high seas confidently and comfortably. Remember, a little planning and these handy tips go a long way in creating an unforgettable voyage. Now, batten down the hatches, set sail, and prepare for an adventure filled with delicious food, endless fun, and memories that will last a lifetime!
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