No trip is all-inclusive
That “all-inclusive” rate typically doesn’t include alcohol, tips, shore excursions, Internet, dining outside our dining room, and what you spend on casino or bingo play. And please, do come play: Your odds are often even worse than on land. If you’re going to pay that much, you should at least go on your dream vacation!
Come prepared to charge
If your ship permits it, pack a charging station or a power strip. Many cruise ships still have only one or two outlets per cabin—and that’s not going to cut it.
Leave your car off-site
If you’re arriving by car, do not park in the cruise terminal, which can cost $20 to $30 a day. Off-site lots typically cost half as much, offer shuttle service to port, and have your car waiting with the AC on at trip’s end.
The threat of sexual assault is real
You’re twice as likely to be sexually assaulted on a cruise as you are on land, a 2011 study found, and two thirds of assailants are crew members. Yet cases are hard to prosecute, with alcohol often involved and police often not on board. Stay safe by sticking with a friend.
Don’t buy excursion packages from us
Shhh … here’s a secret: You can book many of the same land excursions we offer for a fraction of the cost by arranging them privately with tour companies beforehand.
For God’s sake, wash your hands
There were 11 outbreaks on cruise ships in the first six months of 2016, almost as many as in all of 2015. Most were norovirus, a highly contagious bug that causes stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea.
We overwork our staff
Thanks to laws that allow us to register our ships in foreign nations, we don’t have to comply with U.S. labor regulations, so crew members typically work 12 to 13 hours every day, with no minimum wage, overtime, or benefits. Don’t be shocked if your service reflects this.
We make our own water
Ever wonder where we get all that freshwater? We make it. That’s right—giant onboard desalination systems remove salt and impurities from ocean water so it’s safe to drink.
Got robbed? Not our problem
We’re not required to report thefts of less than $10,000, so no one knows how much petty crime really happens on board. But it’s a lot: Leave your valuables at home.
We can protect you from pirates
We really do train for pirate attacks (even though they’re extremely rare). We can’t share many details, but let’s just say that our ship’s fire hoses are good for more than fighting fires.
Try to cruise the week of Dec. 15 or Jan. 2
Most people don’t want to travel right before or after the holidays, so we drop our rates to fill our ships. The first week of September is another low-cost option. Avoid traveling during school holidays, especially between Christmas and New Year’s.
We offer more than shuffleboard and bingo
As cruise lines compete to offer the coolest attractions, you can now find zip-lines, bumper cars, ropes courses, rock walls and hair-raising water slides on board. Walk a “plank” on the Norwegian Getaway that hovers 180 feet above the ocean. Or try simulated surfing or skydiving on a Royal Caribbean ship.And just imagine the activities that must be available on the world’s wackiest cruises.
Keep an eye on your kid in the swimming pool
There have been more than a dozen drownings or near-drownings on cruise ships in recent years, and most ships don’t have lifeguards. Disney is a notable exception; it began hiring guards in late 2013 after a four-year-old nearly drowned on the Disney Fantasy. Worried about the safety and wellbeing of your little ones? Here are the 13 best cruises for kids.
You may not get your luggage right after check-in
Pack a carry-on bag with your bathing suit, a change of clothes, medication, and anything else you’ll need to enjoy those first few hours on board. By the way, make sure you don’t make these suitcase packing mistakes.
You can bring your own booze
Most cruise lines allow you to bring one or two bottles of wine onboard, though you will probably have to pay a corkage fee. If you are buying wine onboard, it’s most economical to buy a full bottle, even if you only want one glass. Your waiter can mark it with your name and save it for the next night.
Yes, people do occasionally fall over the rails
About 20 people a year, according to a website that tracks media reports of passengers overboard. Many of them are either incredibly drunk or they intentionally jump to commit suicide.
Order however much food you want
Can’t decide between two entrees? Have you always wanted to try escargot? Many passengers don’t know that it’s OK to order more than one appetizer or entree. You can also request seconds or thirds. We’ve had people ask for seven or eight lobster tails on formal nights. Though take it easy for the sake of your health.
Wealthy passengers get perks
On Norwegian, luxury travelers can stay in a hidden, keycard-protected area called The Haven that includes a concierge, 24-hour butler service and a pool and restaurant away from the crowds. On other lines, affluent guests get special seats at shows, personalized shore excursions, and a promise that they will never have to wait in line for anything.
Some ports of call have extremely high crime rates
In Nassau, Bahamas, Americans have been victims of armed robbery and rape and the U.S. Embassy has issued a travel warning. Other ports that have particularly high crime rates include St. Lucia, Honduras, and some parts of Mexico.
Before you book, check to see if you qualify for any discounts
We may offer them to senior citizens, active or retired military, residents who live the same state as a port city, firefighters, police officers, or teachers. You’ll get lots of extra perks if you’ve traveled with us before. Also ask for a price adjustment or upgrade if the price of your room drops after you book. Then set a “price alert” at cruiseline.com to get notified if the cost of your cruise drops below the level that you paid. Need some booking inspiration? These are the 12 best island vacations to take in the U.S.