7 Common Cruise Mistakes

These expert tips from Maru Hyndman, a travel advisor based in La Jolla, California, will help you avoid potential mishaps to ensure your next cruise is unforgettable — for all the right reasons.

By Erin Pepler

1 - Squealing into port to find your ship has already sailed

Cruise ships operate on a strict schedule, and yours will head out to sea whether you’re on it or not. Hyndman recommends clients fly in the day before their departure. “If you have a flight delay, you’ll have to catch your ship at the next port, and that can be time-consuming and expensive,” she says. On embarkation day, arrive at port for your designated boarding window. Have your travel documents ready as well as a small bag with any items you might need on your first day (your larger luggage may not arrive at your cabin for several hours).

2 - Forgetting to check the entry requirements for each port

A valid passport is just the beginning: You’ll need to make sure you’ve got the right paperwork and vaccinations for every country included on your cruise itinerary. “If you’re in another country’s waters, you need to meet their requirements,” Hyndman says. On a voyage that makes stops in several countries, the conditions on those entry requirements can get complicated. Take a South American cruise, for instance: Brazil does not require proof of yellow fever vaccination, while Colombia does — but only if you’ve recently visited Brazil, Angola, the Congo or Uganda. 1

3- Not getting to know the ship

Familiarizing yourself with deck plans, whether through a guided tour or the cruise line’s app, will help you navigate any quirks of the ship’s design (such as decks that don’t connect from forward to aft). Once you’ve got the key routes down, Hyndman advises reading over the ship’s program to get a sense of where you should be, and when. “The program will have information on restaurants, the spa, art galleries, classes and activities, cocktail events and other experiences that are being offered on board so you can plan your days,” she says.

4- Assuming it’s all-inclusive

Although cruises are all-inclusive in the sense that you’ll never go hungry — or thirsty — on board, many large-ship cruise lines offer upgraded packages that expand your options for complimentary food, drinks and amenities. On a mega-ship, for instance, your basic cruise fare may include meals in main dining rooms and coffee, tea and juice, but not specialty restaurants and alcoholic beverages; or provide Wi-Fi access, but not high-speed Internet. “To avoid disappointment, you should find out exactly what is included,” Hyndman says. “Some cruise lines include excursions, but others charge extra. It’s important to ask questions.”

5- Neglecting to make reservations

Onboard cuisine is one of the biggest draws for cruisers, and that leaves specialty dining establishments in high demand. “There could be a restaurant from a Michelin-star chef on board,” Hyndman says, “but you’ll need reservations ahead of time.” To ensure your seat at the table, she recommends booking online in advance of your cruise.

6- Breaking cruise etiquette

Just like at any hotel or resort, there are social niceties to follow when cruising. Be mindful of your volume when passing through common areas like hallways, or even when socializing in your cabin (especially at night, Hyndman notes). Pick up a clean plate every time you hit the buffet, and never use your towel to reserve a chair near the pool. You should also familiarize yourself with the ship’s dress code and tipping culture, as these can vary between cruise lines. Most large-ship cruises automatically charge a daily gratuity, but you’ll also want some cash on hand to tip any crew who go above and beyond.

7-Booking without a travel advisor

Not only will a travel advisor help you choose the right cruise line — a small ship with fewer passengers, or a large one with plenty of family-friendly amenities — they can also help you compare itineraries, brief you on entry requirements and even save you money. “We offer incentives and promotions you won’t get if you book directly,” Hyndman says, adding that could mean a better deal or a more spacious cabin for the same price.