Cruise embarkation day can be both exciting and overwhelming. You have been waiting for this moment for months, and finally, you are on board your cruise ship. But what should you do immediately after boarding your cruise? This blog post will outline the essential things to do on cruise embarkation day to maximize your vacation.
Drop Off Your Bags In The Cabin
Finding your cabin as soon as you board your cruise ship is essential because it allows you to drop off your bags and put away your belongings. This way, you can explore the ship without carrying all your luggage. Additionally, it allows you to check your cabin for any issues or problems. If you notice any problems, such as a broken faucet or a non-functioning light, reporting them early can resolve them faster, and you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about them.
Secure Your Valuables
It’s crucial to secure your valuables in your cabin when you first board your cruise because you will likely be exploring the ship and participating in various activities, which means you won’t be in your cabin all the time. Most cruise ships have safes in their cabins, which you can use to store your valuables, such as passports, cash, jewelry, and electronics. It’s also essential to know where all your valuables are to quickly locate them when needed.
Make Reservations
Ensure you take advantage of specialty dining and premium experiences during your cruise; making reservations on the first day is essential as they tend to fill up fast. Many people book these experiences before boarding the ship, so if you wait too long, you may miss out on the opportunity. Making reservations on the first day ensures you get the desired experience at a time that works for you. This will also give you peace of mind and allow you to plan the rest of your vacation accordingly. Additionally, some cruise lines offer discounts or promotions for booking these experiences early, so checking for special offers is always a good idea.
Take Note Of Events in The Daily Planner
The daily planner contains a list of all the activities, events, and shows that will take place on the ship during your cruise. It’s important to take note of the events in the daily planner because it can help you plan your vacation and make the most of your time on board.
On the first day of your cruise, take a few minutes to review the daily planner and note the opening and closing times of bars, restaurants, and other amenities on the ship. You can plan your meals and drinks accordingly and avoid long queues or waits.
Additionally, the daily planner will list all the shows and activities that will take place on the ship. It’s a good idea to take note of the show times and plan your schedule around them to experience all of the entertainment. Some shows, such as Broadway-style productions, are only performed a few times during the cruise, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.
Check Out The Kid’s Club and Sign Your Children Up
Checking out the kids club and signing your children up on the first day of the cruise is essential because it allows them to participate in the first set of activities and events designed specifically for them. These activities can be fun and exciting, and you want your kids to experience them. Additionally, signing up on the first day allows your child to make friends with other kids onboard, making their vacation even more enjoyable. The kids club staff will also provide you with a schedule of the activities planned for the week so that you can plan your activities accordingly. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the kids club staff and facilities, so you can rest assured that your kids are in safe and capable hands.
Internet Package
Signing up for an internet package on the first day of your cruise is essential because special prices and promotions may be available. Some cruise lines offer discounts if you sign up on embarkation day. By signing up early, you can take advantage of these deals and save money on your internet usage throughout your vacation.
If you need uninterrupted internet access during your cruise, it’s best to register for an internet package on the first day of your trip. This will help you avoid any connection problems or delays that may arise later on.
Organize Drinks Packages
Another important thing to consider on the first day of your cruise is whether or not you want to purchase a drinks package. A drink package can be an excellent option to save money on drinks and enjoy unlimited beverages throughout your vacation. However, it’s important to note that most cruise lines do not prorate the package cost if you purchase it later in the cruise. If you wait until the third or fourth day of your trip to purchase the package, you will have missed several days of unlimited drinks.
It’s also important to note that drinks packages can vary in price and inclusions depending on the cruise line and ship. Some packages may include only non-alcoholic beverages, while others may include beer, wine, and spirits. Be sure to read the details of each package carefully to ensure that you are getting the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Take Time To Explore The Ship
Exploring the ship on the first day of your cruise is important because it lets you get familiar with the layout and amenities of the ship. By taking the time to walk around and explore the ship, you can find the location of important areas such as the dining rooms, pools, gym, and spa. This can save you time when trying to find your way around the ship later.
Additionally, exploring the ship can be a fun and exciting way to start your vacation. You can discover new areas of the ship that you may not have known about, and you can start to plan which areas you want to spend more time in throughout your vacation. Some ships have hidden gems, such as quiet lounges, outdoor areas, or even mini golf courses, that you may only discover if you take the time to explore.
Airplane Mode
Putting your phone on airplane mode on the first day of your cruise is important because it can help you avoid unexpected roaming charges. Your phone may connect to satellite networks or foreign cell towers at sea, resulting in costly roaming charges. By putting your phone on airplane mode, you can prevent these connections from happening and avoid any surprise charges on your phone bill.
Take A Swim
Swimming in the pool or using the hot tub on the first day of your cruise is a great way to start your vacation on a relaxing note. It’s also a good idea to take advantage of these amenities on the first day because they are often less crowded than they will be later on in the week. Many people are still settling into their cabins or exploring the ship on the first day, so the pool and hot tub areas may be less busy and more peaceful.
Book Shore Excursions
Booking shore excursions on the first day of your cruise is important because popular excursions can fill up quickly. It is recommended to make your excursion bookings as early as possible to ensure availability rather than risking disappointment later in the week due to unavailability. Booking on the first day also allows you to plan your schedule and budget accordingly, as some excursions may require more time or money than others.
Unpack
It is crucial to unpack on the first day of your cruise for various reasons. Firstly, it helps you to settle into your cabin and feel more at home during your vacation. By unpacking your belongings and organizing them in available storage areas, you can create a more comfortable and organized living space for yourself.
Also, unpacking on the first day can help you avoid living out of a suitcase throughout your trip. By hanging up your clothes and putting away your toiletries and other belongings, you can save time and reduce stress when getting ready for various activities and events onboard the ship.
Lastly, unpacking on the first day can help you to keep track of your belongings and avoid losing or misplacing anything during your trip. By having a designated place for each item, you can easily find what you need when you need it and avoid any unnecessary stress or frustration.
Meet Your Room Steward
By introducing yourself and getting to know your steward, you can establish a good relationship and ensure your needs and preferences are handled during your vacation.
Your room steward can also provide you with important information about the cleaning schedule and any other important policies or procedures related to your cabin. For example, they can tell you when the cabin will be cleaned each day and how to request additional amenities such as extra towels or pillows.
Additionally, it is an excellent time to make any special requests that you may have. For example, if you have a dietary restriction or require a particular type of pillow, you can let your steward know, and they can do their best to accommodate your needs.
Attend The Sailaway
Attending the sailaway on the deck of your cruise ship on embarkation day is a great way to start your vacation with a fun and exciting experience. The sailaway is when the ship sets sail from the port and begins its journey, and music, drinks, and festivities often accompany it. By heading onto the deck for the sailaway, you can enjoy the stunning views of the port and the ocean, wave goodbye to land, and start to feel the excitement of your adventure. It’s also an excellent opportunity to meet other passengers and socialize, as many people gather on the deck for this event.
Conclusion
The first day of your cruise can set the mood for the rest of your vacation. It is important to take advantage of the embarkation day and make the most of your time on board. By following these essential tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to your cruise experience. So, relax, have fun, and prepare to make unforgettable memories on your upcoming cruise vacation. Bon voyage!