Are you ready to embark on your first cruise?
It’s officially cruise season in South Africa, which means plenty of folks are gearing up to spend their hot summer holidays on the seas.
Going on a cruise holiday can be exciting, as you get to see the world, soak up the sun, partake in a smorgasbord of fun activities and forge lifelong friendships along the way. However, if you’re new to cruising, it can be quite daunting.
CRUISE TIPS 101
Fortunately for you first-timers out there, we have six tips you can use to help turn your inaugural voyage into an enjoyable adventure:
1. PACK WELL FOR THE TRIP
Much like packing for the airport, you need to pack smartly for a cruise ship.
Most cruise lines advise South Africans to pack clothing that’s appropriate for different weather conditions in checked luggage. For example, shorts, short-sleeve tops, dresses and sandals are great for warm weather; a jersey and closed shoes can stave off the chill, especially at night. Don’t forget to pack your swimming cozzie, as well as a formal outfit for when you’re dining at a ship restaurant that has a less casual dress code.
You can pack valuables, chronic medication and essential toiletries, such as your phone, charger, a toothbrush and jewellery, in your hand luggage.
2. KEEP IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS ON HAND
Speaking of hand luggage, this is where you can pack your documents. These include your passport, boarding passes, a copy of your travel insurance, itineraries and visas (if you’re planning to visit destinations that require visas).
If you have a chronic condition that necessitates prescription medication and/or medical equipment, be sure that you’re carrying an official medical letter.
This letter details the medications you take, the medical equipment you use and the conditions they’re needed for. It’s helpful in the event of a medical emergency or if you’re questioned by cruise officials.
Double-check that you have these documents packed before you depart on your cruise trip.
3. CHECK IN ONLINE
Most cruise lines offer an online check-in for all guests. This gives you an opportunity to obtain your boarding pass, sort out the payment details and, if applicable, select a time slot during which you arrive at the cruise terminal for embarkation.
Generally speaking, checking in online helps reduce the time you wait at the terminal before boarding. In other words, you can avoid sitting tight for what feels like endless hours with other passengers.
Ideally, checking in needs to be completed several days before you board. Contact your respective cruise line to find out what their check-in policy entails.
4. BE PROMPT
Missing the boat may sound like a cliché, but it can happen.
Again, cruiseliners may give you the option to choose a slot for when you can arrive at the terminal for embarkation. If not, they all differ on how early you should arrive before the scheduled departure time. Some recommend a few hours, while others advise a full day (especially if you’re flying in from another location).
At best, aim to arrive two hours before the departure time. This ensures a smoother boarding process and, if you are feeling anxious, gives you a calming start to your trip.
5. SAFETY FIRST
You want to enjoy your first cruise. As such, safety is paramount.
A safety drill, or muster drill, is a safety exercise that you and your fellow passengers must undergo, usually in various muster stations. During this drill, crew members will familiarise you with the safety equipment (such as your life jacket) and evacuation procedures.
These drills usually run for 60 minutes.
6. FAMILIARISE YOURSELF WITH THE SHIP’S LAYOUT
Now that you’re onboard, it’s time to explore!
The ship will be your home for the next few days; to settle in properly, you can explore its amenities, from the bars and lounges to the pool deck and entertainment facilities. Discover new activities, as well as new cuisines at the different restaurants (and find out which one, if any, requires you to wear formal attire).
Take note of the muster station maps plastered in the public spaces and in stairwells.
Also, while exploring, use this opportunity to meet other passengers. Whether they’re veterans of sea voyages or first-time cruisers like you, friendly faces can help ease you into your trip.
IT’S ALL SMOOTH SAILING FROM HERE
By using these tips, your first cruise trip will feel like a breeze.
At the end of the day, it’s your holiday. You’re entitled to rest and relaxation this summer, whether you’re sailing to an island near Mzansi or across international waters.
Good luck and bon voyage!
