Cruise Tips: How to Sail Like a Pro

We’ve got some cruise tips you don’t want to miss! Cruising is a fantastic way to see the world, and Disney and Royal Caribbean cruises are among the best! With their amazing amenities, exciting activities, and beautiful destinations, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable time. But how can you make your cruise even better? Here are some travel hacks to ensure you get the most out of your Disney Cruise Line or Royal Caribbean cruise.

Tips for Booking and Preparing for Your Cruise

Booking your cruise early can help you get the best deals and the best cabins. Popular sailings, especially during peak seasons, fill up quickly.

One of our best cruise tips is simple, it’s early booking! Early booking also gives you the opportunity to properly plan out dining reservations, excursions, and special activities. Considering travel insurance is also a smart move. It might seem like an extra expense, but it can save you a lot of stress and money if something unexpected happens. Make sure your insurance covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.

Take advantage of online check-in. Both Disney and Royal Caribbean offer this service. Completing your check-in online before you leave home will save you time at the port and make your embarkation smoother. Another tip is to download the cruise line’s app before you go. These apps provide daily schedules, deck maps, and the ability to book activities. They also help you stay in touch with your group through onboard messaging!

Smart Packing Tips

Packing a carry-on bag with essentials like medications, a change of clothes, swimwear, and important documents is crucial. Sometimes, your luggage might take a while to be delivered to your cabin, so having these items on hand will let you start enjoying the ship right away. Bringing a power strip or USB hub is also a good idea. Cabins often have limited outlets, and you will need to charge your phone, tablets, camera, and other devices. Before you bring one on board, be sure to check with your cruise line’s rules to avoid any confusion, and make sure the power strip is cruise-approved to avoid any issues. Some cruises may allow you to check a power strip out at guest relations with a refundable deposit.

A refillable water bottle is a must. Staying hydrated is important, especially in warm climates. Both cruise lines have stations where you can fill your bottle, and it is a more sustainable option than using disposable plastic bottles. Magnetic hooks can also be very handy. Cabin walls are made of metal, and these hooks can be useful for hanging up swimsuits, hats, or lanyards that can hold your sail card. Packing some snacks can also be helpful, especially if you have kids. While food is plentiful on cruises, having a few familiar snacks can be comforting, especially for the younger kids.Pro Tip: Make sure that all snacks are in their original packaging. Foods like fruit and vegetables are not permitted on the ship.

Making the Most of Your Cruise

Exploring the ship as soon as you board is a great way to start your vacation, and trust me there is much to see!

Familiarize yourself with the layout, and find the dining rooms, pools, and entertainment venues. This will save you time later and help you make the most of your cruise. Making reservations for specialty dining and popular activities as soon as possible is another good tip. These spots fill up quickly, especially on sea days. By booking early, you ensure you won’t miss out on any of the experiences you are looking forward to.

Attending the welcome show and orientation can provide a great overview of what to expect during your cruise and highlight special events and activities. Plus, they are often very entertaining. Taking advantage of the ship’s app is another way to enhance your cruise experience. The app can help you stay organized and reduce stress during your visit. Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy some downtime! Cruises can be packed with activities, but it’s also important to relax and enjoy the view, it is a vacation after all!

The Takeaway

Cruising with Disney or Royal Caribbean is an incredible way to vacation and one of our very favorites! With these practical travel hacks, you can make your cruise even more enjoyable and stress-free. From booking early and packing smart to making the most of onboard amenities and shore excursions, these tips will help you have the best cruise experience possible.

If you are planning your next cruise and want expert advice, book your dream cruise with Your Fairytale Vacation! Schedule a call with one of our expert travel advisors today and let us help you plan the vacation of your dreams!

Book HERE.