Cruising Essentials

Cruising 101: Royal Caribbean Alaska

Discover essential do's and don'ts for an unforgettable Royal Caribbean cruise experience in Alaska. Navigate your journey with confidence and make the most of your adventure at sea.

Cruising: Do's and Don'ts

Cruising can be an incredibly rewarding way to travel, offering a blend of relaxation, adventure, and new experiences. To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind:

The "DO's"

• DO Book Excursions in Advance (Especially Popular Ones): Shore excursions, especially those to popular attractions or with limited availability, often sell out quickly. Booking online before you board can save you disappointment and often a bit of money.

• DO Arrive at the Port City a Day Early: This is a golden rule! Flights can be delayed, traffic can be unpredictable. Arriving the day before your cruise eliminates a huge amount of stress and ensures you don't miss the ship.

• DO Pack Smartly and Efficiently: While you'll have more space than an airplane, cabins are still compact. Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched. Don't forget essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, hats, and any medications.

• DO Utilize Online Check-in: Most cruise lines offer online check-in, which significantly speeds up the embarkation process at the port.

• DO Attend the Muster Drill: It's mandatory for a reason and provides crucial safety information. Pay attention, even if you've cruised before.

• DO Explore the Ship on Day One: Get acquainted with the layout of the ship, locate key areas like dining rooms, pools, lounges, and your cabin. This will help you feel more at home throughout your journey.

• DO Try New Things: Cruising is an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. Try a new dish, participate in a game show, or attend a lecture.

• DO Stay Hydrated: The sun, sea air, and often increased activity can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• DO Set a Daily Budget for Onboard Spending: It's easy to get carried away with drinks, souvenirs, spa treatments, and specialty dining. Keep an eye on your onboard account.

• DO Tip Appropriately: Gratuities are a significant part of the crew's income. Familiarize yourself with your cruise line's tipping policy (often auto-charged) and adjust as you see fit for exceptional service. They accept cash as well!

• DO Be Considerate of Other Passengers: Share public spaces, keep noise levels down in hallways, and be mindful of your personal space.

• DO Disconnect and Relax: While Wi-Fi is often available (for a fee), try to embrace the opportunity to unplug from daily life and truly unwind.

• DO Pack a Small Carry-On Bag for Embarkation Day: Put essentials like swimwear, medication, a change of clothes, and toiletries in a bag you can carry yourself. Your main luggage might take a few hours to reach your cabin.

• DO Use Hand Sanitizer Frequently: Norovirus and other illnesses can spread quickly on a ship. Sanitize your hands often, especially before meals.

The "DON'Ts"

• DON'T Overpack: While there are no luggage weight limits like on airlines, space in your cabin is limited. Lay out everything you think you need, then put half of it back.

• DON'T Miss Your All-Aboard Time: The ship will not wait for you. Be back onboard well before the published all-aboard time at each port.

• DON'T Forget Essential Documents: Passport (or other required ID), cruise tickets, and any visa documents. Keep them in a safe and easily accessible place.

• DON'T Underestimate the Sun: Even on cloudy days, the sun reflecting off the water can cause severe sunburn. Apply and reapply sunscreen.

• DON'T Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you have a question or issue, the crew is there to assist you. Don't hesitate to ask.

• DON'T Hog Chairs by the Pool: If you're not actively using a lounge chair, don't "reserve" it with a towel for extended periods. Be considerate of others.

• DON'T Bring Prohibited Items: This includes things like extension cords, irons, candles, and illegal substances.

• DON'T Ignore Safety Instructions: These are for your well-being.

• DON'T Feed the Wildlife: This can disrupt their natural behaviors and is often prohibited.

• DON'T Be Rude to the Crew: They work incredibly hard to make your vacation enjoyable. A little kindness goes a long way.

• DON'T Assume Everything is Included: While food and many activities are, specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and some fitness classes usually cost extra.

• DON'T Forget to Budget for Port Expenses: Even if you've pre-booked excursions, you might want to buy souvenirs, enjoy a local meal, or take a taxi.

• DON'T Panic if You Feel Seasick: Many effective remedies are available, both over-the-counter and often from the ship's medical center.

• DON'T Leave Valuables Unattended: Use your in-cabin safe for passports, cash, and expensive electronics.