Tips for First Time Cruisers
So… you booked your first cruise. 🙌
First of all—congratulations. You’ve officially chosen one of the easiest, most relaxing ways to see multiple destinations without unpacking more than once. That alone deserves a round of applause.
But if you’re a first-time cruiser, you probably have questions. What do I pack? Will I get seasick? Do I need to dress up? How does this floating city actually work?
Don’t worry.
We’ve helped plenty of first-time cruisers set sail, and we’re here to make sure you board with confidence (and maybe a little swagger).
Here are ourbest travel tips for first-time cruisers:
1. Arrive a Day Early (Trust Us on This One)
If you’re flying to your departure port—especially places like Miami, Orlando, or Galveston—arrive at least one day before your cruise.
Why?
Because airplanes have personalities. Sometimes they cooperate. Sometimes they decide to test your faith.
Cruise ships, however, do not wait. If the ship departs at 4:00 PM, it departs at 4:00 PM—with or without you.
Arriving early:
2. Pack a Carry-On Like a Pro
When you board the ship, your checked luggage may take several hours to arrive at your cabin.
So pack a carry-on with:
Pro tip: The first afternoon on the ship is one of the least crowded times at the pool.
3. Don’t Overpack (You Won’t Wear Half of It)
We see it all the time. First-time cruisers pack like they’re starring in a travel documentary.
Reality check: You’ll rotate between swimwear, casual outfits, and maybe one or two nicer dinners.
Most cruise lines now lean toward “resort casual” rather than ultra-formal. Yes, there may be a formal night—but it doesn’t require a tuxedo unless you want to feel like James Bond.
Bring:
4. Download the Cruise Line App Before You Sail
Most major cruise lines now use mobile apps for:
It makes navigating the ship much easier and helps you plan your days efficiently.
Plus, you won’t miss trivia, shows, deck parties, or late-night pizza. And trust us… you don’t want to miss late-night pizza.
5. Plan Excursions Wisely
You don’t have to book an excursion at every port. Sometimes a beach day or walking around town is perfect.
But when you do book excursions, choose based on your energy level and interests.
Ask yourself:
Balance is key.
6. Understand the Drink Packages Before You Buy
Cruise drink packages can be worth it—but only if you’ll actually use them.
Consider:
If you’re unsure, we can help you run the numbers before you purchase.
No one wants to realize halfway through the cruise that they paid for unlimited drinks and are averaging one lemonade a day.
7. Motion Sickness? Plan Ahead (Just in Case)
Modern cruise ships are incredibly stable. Many first-time cruisers are surprised at how little movement they feel.
That said, if you’re prone to motion sickness:
It’s always better to prepare and not need it than the other way around.
8. Budget for the “Extras”
Cruises are a great value, but there are additional expenses to consider:
We always recommend budgeting a little extra so you can enjoy the experience without watching your onboard account every day.
Pro tip: You can usually monitor your onboard spending through the cruise app.
9. Explore the Ship on Day One
Cruise ships are floating cities. On embarkation day, take 30 minutes to explore:
The first day is typically less crowded while people are boarding, so it’s the perfect time to get your bearings.
You’ll feel like a seasoned cruiser by dinner.
10. Be Flexible (and Embrace the Fun)
Weather happens. Ports can change. Shows can sell out. Plans may shift.
Part of cruising is embracing the journey.
Some of the best memories happen when you say:
“Sure, why not?”
Try the dance class.
Go to trivia night.
Order the dessert.
Watch the sunset from the top deck.
Cruising is designed to make it easy to relax and have fun. Lean into it.
11. Talk to Your Travel Advisor (That’s Us!)
One of the biggest mistakes first-time cruisers make is trying to figure everything out alone.
When you book with Mission City Travel, you get:
We help match your personality and travel style with the right cruise experience—because not all cruise lines are the same.
Some are high-energy and family-focused. Others are relaxed and refined. Some are perfect for couples, while others shine for multi-generational trips.
Choosing wisely makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts for First-Time Cruisers
Your first cruise is special. There’s something unforgettable about:
It’s vacation simplicity at its finest.
With a little preparation—and the right guidance—you’ll board confident and come home hooked.
If you’re considering your first cruise, we’d love to help you plan it the right way from the start.
Let’s get you sailing. 🚢
First of all—congratulations. You’ve officially chosen one of the easiest, most relaxing ways to see multiple destinations without unpacking more than once. That alone deserves a round of applause.
But if you’re a first-time cruiser, you probably have questions. What do I pack? Will I get seasick? Do I need to dress up? How does this floating city actually work?
Don’t worry.
We’ve helped plenty of first-time cruisers set sail, and we’re here to make sure you board with confidence (and maybe a little swagger).
Here are ourbest travel tips for first-time cruisers:
If you’re flying to your departure port—especially places like Miami, Orlando, or Galveston—arrive at least one day before your cruise.
Why?
Because airplanes have personalities. Sometimes they cooperate. Sometimes they decide to test your faith.
Cruise ships, however, do not wait. If the ship departs at 4:00 PM, it departs at 4:00 PM—with or without you.
Arriving early:
- Reduces stress
- Protects your investment
- Starts your vacation in relaxation mode instead of panic mode
When you board the ship, your checked luggage may take several hours to arrive at your cabin.
So pack a carry-on with:
- Swimsuit
- Flip-flops
- Sunscreen
- Medications
- Travel documents
- A change of clothes (just in case)
Pro tip: The first afternoon on the ship is one of the least crowded times at the pool.
We see it all the time. First-time cruisers pack like they’re starring in a travel documentary.
Reality check: You’ll rotate between swimwear, casual outfits, and maybe one or two nicer dinners.
Most cruise lines now lean toward “resort casual” rather than ultra-formal. Yes, there may be a formal night—but it doesn’t require a tuxedo unless you want to feel like James Bond.
Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Lightweight layers (ships can be chilly inside)
- One dressy outfit
- Workout clothes (even if you’re just “considering” using the gym)
- The entire shoe collection
- Six backup outfits for dinner
- The “just in case” pile you know you won’t touch
Most major cruise lines now use mobile apps for:
- Daily schedules
- Dining reservations
- Excursion bookings
- Ship maps
- Messaging family members onboard
It makes navigating the ship much easier and helps you plan your days efficiently.
Plus, you won’t miss trivia, shows, deck parties, or late-night pizza. And trust us… you don’t want to miss late-night pizza.
You don’t have to book an excursion at every port. Sometimes a beach day or walking around town is perfect.
But when you do book excursions, choose based on your energy level and interests.
Ask yourself:
- Do I want adventure (ziplining, snorkeling, ATV rides)?
- Culture (historic tours, food tastings, local experiences)?
- Relaxation (beach clubs, spa days)?
Balance is key.
Cruise drink packages can be worth it—but only if you’ll actually use them.
Consider:
- How many beverages you realistically drink per day
- Specialty coffee and bottled water needs
- Whether you’ll be off the ship most of the day in port
If you’re unsure, we can help you run the numbers before you purchase.
No one wants to realize halfway through the cruise that they paid for unlimited drinks and are averaging one lemonade a day.
Modern cruise ships are incredibly stable. Many first-time cruisers are surprised at how little movement they feel.
That said, if you’re prone to motion sickness:
- Bring medication
- Try motion bands
- Choose a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck for less movement
It’s always better to prepare and not need it than the other way around.
Cruises are a great value, but there are additional expenses to consider:
- Gratuities
- Specialty dining
- Shore excursions
- Spa treatments
- Souvenirs
- Wi-Fi
We always recommend budgeting a little extra so you can enjoy the experience without watching your onboard account every day.
Pro tip: You can usually monitor your onboard spending through the cruise app.
Cruise ships are floating cities. On embarkation day, take 30 minutes to explore:
- Dining areas
- Pool decks
- Theater
- Fitness center
- Coffee spots
- Quiet areas
The first day is typically less crowded while people are boarding, so it’s the perfect time to get your bearings.
You’ll feel like a seasoned cruiser by dinner.
Weather happens. Ports can change. Shows can sell out. Plans may shift.
Part of cruising is embracing the journey.
Some of the best memories happen when you say:
“Sure, why not?”
Try the dance class.
Go to trivia night.
Order the dessert.
Watch the sunset from the top deck.
Cruising is designed to make it easy to relax and have fun. Lean into it.
One of the biggest mistakes first-time cruisers make is trying to figure everything out alone.
When you book with Mission City Travel, you get:
- Help choosing the right cruise line
- Guidance on cabin selection
- Advice on drink packages and excursions
- Travel protection recommendations
- Support before, during, and after your trip
We help match your personality and travel style with the right cruise experience—because not all cruise lines are the same.
Some are high-energy and family-focused. Others are relaxed and refined. Some are perfect for couples, while others shine for multi-generational trips.
Choosing wisely makes all the difference.
Your first cruise is special. There’s something unforgettable about:
- Watching the shoreline fade away
- Feeling the ocean breeze on deck
- Waking up in a new destination
- Not having to cook, clean, or drive anywhere
It’s vacation simplicity at its finest.
With a little preparation—and the right guidance—you’ll board confident and come home hooked.
If you’re considering your first cruise, we’d love to help you plan it the right way from the start.
Let’s get you sailing. 🚢