Your First Cruise: The I Got a Guy Travel 15-Point Primer

Your first time on a cruise ship is a lot like your first day in the Air Force or on the police force—it can be overwhelming, but with a little preparation, you'll be a pro in no time. Cruising is different from any other vacation, and stress-free travel is our mission. Having completed countless sailings and certifications, including my Ph.D. from Norwegian Cruise Line University, I can tell you that these tips will make your first cruise a memorable one.

 

Here are the top 15 things I want you to know before you board your first cruise ship.

 

As a retired military man and a law enforcement officer, I can tell you that packing light and smart is a skill. You're not deploying for a year; you're going on vacation. You'll be living in a cozy space for a week. While you might be tempted to bring everything you own, remember you'll have to carry it all. Bring multi-purpose clothing and use packing cubes to maximize space. Trust me, you don't want to get hit with an overweight bag fee at the airport—that's a fine I don't want you to pay.

 

I usually sail in an Oceanview cabin, especially for watching the sunrise with my wife, Alma. It’s a great perk. However, if you plan on being out and about from dawn till dusk, you might want to consider an interior cabin. The money you save can be used for shore excursions, specialty dining, or a fantastic drink package. Think of it like booking a hotel: if you're only sleeping there, you don't need the penthouse suite.

 

The original article is right—formal night is a tradition on most cruise lines. While some lines have relaxed the dress code, many still hold a formal night, often called "dress-up or not" night. As a Cruise line expert and a CLIA member, I can tell you that this is your chance to shine. You’ll see everything from sequined gowns to tuxedos and suits. Don't miss out on the Captain’s Welcome Aboard party because you're in shorts. My first cruise, Alma and I were totally unprepared for formal night—but we learned our lesson!

 

This is a great tip. Many cruise lines have theme nights like '80s parties, White Parties, or Caribbean nights. I always say that a good travel advisor will make sure you’re prepared. We do our best at I Got a Guy Travel to let you know what to expect. A little research on the ship's social media pages can go a long way in making your trip more fun.

 

Check-in can take some time, but it's for everyone's safety and security. Think of it like a pre-deployment briefing. The crew is checking passports, visas, and all your baggage to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Be prepared, have your documents ready, and be patient. The ship isn't going anywhere without you, and soon you'll be sipping a drink on the lido deck.

 

There’s a reason we don't stampede the gangway—it’s a safety issue. Disembarking and re-boarding take time because of security checks, just like a post-flight debrief. Everyone is eager to get to their next adventure, but we must all do it in an orderly fashion. My years as a peace officer taught me that patience and order are key to a smooth operation.

 

You are on vacation! The ship isn't leaving you behind in the breakfast line. Relax. The best cruises are those where you let go of the rush and simply enjoy the moment.

 

This is non-negotiable. Familiarize yourself with what you can and cannot bring on board. Don't try to sneak something on that will get confiscated. As a retired Lieutenant with 44 years as a Texas Peace Officer, I can tell you that the security team is there for your safety. They will hold any prohibited items, and you will not get them back until the end of the cruise. The rules are in place for a reason.

 

Guest services are there to help, but they are often busiest at certain times, like embarkation and disembarkation. If you have a question that isn’t urgent, look for a crew member or ask a fellow passenger. Often, the answers are right in the ship's daily schedule or app.

 

As a Cruiseologist, I always recommend you weigh out the cost versus your consumption. Even if you're not a heavy drinker, the drink package often includes premium coffees, sodas, and bottled water. On a cruise, the cost of individual drinks can add up quickly. Do the math and see if it makes sense for you. For me, it's a no-brainer to get the package and not worry about a bill at the end of the week.

 

This is where the fun begins! A ship is a floating city with countless options. Don’t just stick to the first bar you find. Spend your first day walking around and exploring all the different clubs, lounges, and activities. You might find a quiet jazz club you love or a lively Latin dance spot. As a Master of Adventure, I know that every ship has a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

 

Don't be a wallflower! This is your chance to step out of your comfort zone. Join the trivia contests, sing karaoke, or participate in the deck games. You’ll never see these people again, so what do you have to lose? As a Master Sergeant, I've seen a lot of great teams come together, and on a cruise, your fellow passengers are your team for the week.

 

This is a military and law enforcement rule: be on time. The cruise ship has a strict schedule to keep, and it will not wait for you. If you miss the all-aboard time, you'll be responsible for your own transportation to the next port. This is a very expensive mistake and one of the most common reasons for a trip gone wrong.

 

The crew is the backbone of the entire operation. They work incredibly hard, often for months at a time, away from their families. Treat them with respect. A simple "thank you" or a kind word can make their day. As a retired veteran, I know the importance of a team working together to accomplish a mission, and the ship's crew is a prime example of this.

 

Cruising is a chance to expand your horizons. Order something you’ve never had before at dinner or try a new activity on board. Whether it's rock climbing on a Royal Caribbean ship, a cooking class on a Princess ship, or something else entirely, take advantage of the amenities. Travel is about discovery, and as a 63-year-old, I'm still learning and discovering new things on every trip.

 

At the end of the day, as long as you come with an open mind and a spirit of adventure, you'll love your cruise. It's a fun and exciting experience, and I'm confident you'll be hooked just like I was!

 

To book your next cruise, call me at 210-219-3663 or email igotaguytravel@gmail.com.