Sailing the seas can be quite the adventure. For as long as we’ve been around, people have been fascinated, enamored, terrified and enraptured by the sea. For a lot of our history, we’ve set sail out of necessity. Today, however, a lot of us sail for the thrill of it.
Multi-day cruises are a very popular attraction for people looking to go on holiday. However, a lot of first-timers go in without being fully prepared for what the journey entails. For that reason, in this article, we are going to go over the different types of cruises, what you should do, what you should pack, and what to keep in mind.
Before you Sail
Now that you are familiar with the two main types of cruises, it is time to think about what you need to do before you set sail. Of course, you have to go through most of the hassle of preparing for a vacation. However, there are a few other steps to consider when preparing for a cruise
- Check out the Cruise Line
Different cruise lines offer different things. Some travel around the world, stopping at different piers in Scotland, England, Europe, the USA, or Asia. Others take you on a couple-of-day’s journey, stopping nowhere along the way. Read up on the cruise line, the types of cruises they offer, and go over some of their reviews. After all, you will be on one of their ships for a few days.
- Pack Properly
Many people associate cruises with tropical climates. While this may be true, it is also true that the nights on the ocean can get quite chilly. Pack an assortment of warm and light clothing, so you can be sure to always have a good time, no matter what. Most importantly, always pack sun screen.
- Don’t Skip Out on the Safety Drill
Those of you who board planes frequently will know that the stewardesses always go over a safety drill in case of accident. The same is true for cruise staff. If you’ve sailed a cruise long enough, you may be familiar with the safety drills. However, every cruise ship is different, so we recommend always attending no matter what.
However, if it is your first time, the safety drill is a must. At most cruises, the safety instructions are mandatory. But, even if not, attending them is absolutely necessary, as you will learn how to handle any situation properly. Remember, safety should be the number one priority.
The Different Types of Cruises
You might be surprised to learn that there are different types of cruises that you can enjoy when setting sail. Some focus on giving you thrills, others simulate famous films set out on the sea, and some are just there to help you relax. In this section, we are going over the most popular types of cruises that you can expect to find.
- Casino Cruise
Gambling is one of the most notable forms of entertainment in the world. The gambling industry has been steadily growing for the past 10 years, and we have online casinos to thank for it. Slot games are the number one most popular game at these websites. Any fans of gambling can visit the slot lovers’ choice of top 10 sites for gambling, and have fun spinning some great games.
However, if you want to feel the cold of the machine, then why not do so in style? On a gambling cruise. Gambling cruises are, in simple terms, portable casinos, that take you on a journey across the ocean. These kinds of cruises often feature slots, table games, and poker tournaments for players of all skill levels. If gambling is your thing, a casino cruise might be a great holiday option.
- Luxury Cruise
Sometimes, you just want to relax. The sun on your skin, the wind in your hair, and the smell of the ocean breeze putting you to sleep sounds like just the thing to do. All this and more awaits you at some of the best luxury cruises available. Considering P&O Azura will fulfill all your luxuring dreams on the sea.
Luxury cruise ships boast fine dining, extravagant pools, leisure areas, and more. The talented lounge singers will set a perfect atmosphere for your meals. Some ships may even host cocktails parties every night. If all of that sounds fun, then look into what luxury cruises can provide.
Tips and Tricks for First-Timers
In this final section, we would like to go over some tips for first-timers. We will cover etiquette, money-saving hacks, and everything else that may serve you well. Starting first with a few money-saving tricks that may come in handy in a pinch.
- Bring your Drinks
A lot of people are under the misconception that all cruises ban bringing your own booze on board. Some do, of course. However, for the most part, ships will allow you to bring your own alcohol on board, within reason. This is a great way to save some cash when sailing.
- Sales, Promotions and Bonuses
Cruise lines often offer promotions, bonuses, free cruise tickets as prizes, and sales on tickets. Starting an emergency fund is crucial for unexpected expenses during your journey. Whether it’s a sudden excursion opportunity or an onboard indulgence, having a financial safety net enhances your cruise experience. Look for these before you book a cruise, as you can save quite a lot of money before you are even on board. While you’re at it, book an inside cabin, as they are often a lot cheaper.
These are two great tips for saving money. But what about the ship etiquette? How should a first-timer behave when onboard. For the most part, there aren’t any stringent rules. The only etiquette you should follow is one that keeps you safe from falling overboard.
A lot of folks, for example, like to climb on the rim, and stare down at the ocean. Understandably, this is a huge safety risk. Another popular thing that people do is recreating the “I’m Flying Jack” scene from The Titanic. A great film to be sure, but recreating that scene without proper supervision can be very dangerous.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has helped to prepare you for your first cruise. Sailing the sea can be a magical experience. But, it can also be quite overwhelming. By following the tips in this article, we hope that you can make your first time on the ocean magical.
