Stay updated with the latest cruise news this Christmas. In today’s roundup: a dramatic Coast Guard medevac off Hawaii, Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas forced to skip Nassau due to high winds, and growing itinerary changes in the Southern Caribbean as tensions near Venezuela impact ports like Curaçao. Get the full details and more over at CruiseHive.com.
Taking the fast ferry from the Philippines sounds easy, right? Just choose when you want to leave, book a ticket, and show up. But anyone who has traveled between islands knows that a few common planning and booking mistakes can turn a smooth journey into stress and chaos, added cost, or even a missed adventure entirely.
Don’t let this be you! Take a look at the following common mistakes travelers make on routes like the Cebu to Bohol ferry, and how you can avoid them to ensure a memorable, drama-free adventure in the Philippines.
Mistake 1: Waiting Until the Last Minute to Book Tickets
Among the simplest ways to place yourself in a problematic situation would be to assume you can buy your ticket on the date of travel. For example, for highly searched routes such as Cebu to Bohol, fast-craft ferries are usually sold out in advance, more so for holidays such as Christmas, Sinulog, or Holy Week in the peak season of December to April.
Even for travel during the middle of the week, these ferry lines fill quickly because they are among the most important and primary methods for travel for both locals and visitors alike.
If you’ve already used up all possible seat reservations, you’ll find yourself scrambling for alternatives with less convenient or more expensive means.
Solution: Book online at least 3-7 days in advance during normal traveling seasons or 2-3 weeks in advance during peak seasons. Take advantage of online booking, as this will enable you to select your preferred departure time and class of seats before availability disappears.
Mistake 2: Disregarding Weather and Seasonal Factors
While weather conditions may not significantly affect flight schedules, they can greatly influence sea travel. In fact, the Philippines has a wet and dry season, and even the speediest ferry boat can become delayed or canceled as a result of rough waters, making the crossing perilous.
The rough sea conditions are mostly experienced between June and November. The cancellation of flights tends to peak during periods of typhoon warnings. It would be an unfortunate situation to encounter if you have not checked on the weather conditions or the cancelation policy of the airline company before flying.
Solution: Check weather forecasts or ferry advisories for the days leading up to a ferry journey. If the weather looks poor, consider rebooking for an earlier date or purchasing ferry insurance for ferry cancelations or delay cover.
Mistake 3: Understanding the Importance of Arrival Times
The ferry routes seem simple on the diagram, but the reality around the ferry terminals is anything but.
Cebu Pier 1 and the Tagbilaran terminal in Bohol can get quite messy, to say the least, and even more so during the weekend. You’d have to wait in lines interminably for just check-in, fees, and security clearance alone. If you’re meeting a plane or tour schedule, showing up only 15 minutes prior to flight time will get you nowhere fast.
Solution: Come at least 45-60 minutes prior to departure time for the airport-bound train. If there’s a chance that the train station will be super busy, come even earlier. When transferring from the airport, the Cebu traffic flow varies from light to heavy depending on the time of departure, too.
Mistake 4: Selecting the Incorrect Seating Class without Comprehension
Not all ferry seats are the same. Economy seats are more affordable, but they can be a bit cramped, especially if the ferry is packed, for a 2-hour route.
Business or tourist class tickets are more expensive, with greater comfort and space, and they are sought after by experienced travelers. This could be especially helpful in preventing seasickness.
Solution: Pre-purchase a ticket for a specific seat. A comfortable seat is very important on a boat, and it may well pay off to splurge a little for a better seat to enjoy the trip. At the same time, this would increase the chance of not having motion sickness.
Mistake 5: Failure to Consider Additional Fees at the Port
Included in your ferry ticket is your seating inside the ferry. However, this is rarely the only cost. Expect a small fee when you arrive at most ports in the Philippines before you can board a ferry. This payment is usually required in cash.
If you do not bring money, you might find yourself scrambling for an ATM machine if you do not want to delay your check-in process. There are also those who charge for excess luggage.
Solution: Small amounts of local cash may be taken along for fees at airport terminals, baggage charges, snacks, or anything not included in the ticket.
Mistake 6: Overpacking or Misunderstanding Luggage Requirements
Ferries can carry more pieces of luggage compared to flights, although they have some constraints. Most speedboats also give a certain amount of hand-carried luggage for free, ranging from 7-15 kg.
Bulk gear, such as surfboards or scooters, may require other considerations and additional costs. Not checking airline baggage requirements can result in additional expenses or having to abandon certain items.
Solution: Before you book, check what the airline’s luggage rules are for their operator. Label bags heavily and get essentials into hand carry so you’re not competing for space in the hold.
Mistake 7: Forgetting That Ports and Terminals Are Not Tourist Zones
The ferry stations resemble busy transportation centers because they are. People selling goods, bicycle drivers, and local guides linger near the exit points, and without any prior organization for transportation in and out, you may find yourself wasting time getting a ride.
There is always a pool of tricycles, taxis, and ride-for-hire outside the piers of Cebu and Bohol, but during peak hours, they can be hard to come by.
Solution: If possible, you must arrange for onward transport before arriving or at least work out a possible route from the pier to accommodation. Even a route map and approximate fare rate can prevent worry if you arrive without a transport plan.
Final Thought
Booking and riding a high-speed ferry in the Philippines doesn’t need to be a gamble. With forethought, knowing what to expect from schedules and fees, and looking beyond the actual ticket, what could be a frustrating experience turns into a smooth leg of your island journey.
These aren’t dramatic mistakes; these are the sorts that can trip up even experienced travelers. The difference between a memorable crossing and a travel headache is how to avoid them. Follow the tips above, and your ferry adventure will be one of your trip’s highlights instead of a cautionary tale.
In today’s festive update, we cover MSC Magnifica’s massive two‑month refurbishment and upcoming upgrades, a tragic incident involving an AIDAmar passenger in Spain, and Carnival Dream’s extended Christmas Eve stay in Nassau. Plus, we break down what these changes mean for cruisers heading into the holidays.
Stay up to date with the latest cruise news from CruiseHive.com. In today’s festive roundup: Royal Caribbean cancels several 2026 Freedom of the Seas sailings, Celebrity Equinox breaks free from her moorings in Buenos Aires during embarkation, and authorities investigate the mysterious disappearance of a guest from AIDAluna during a Mediterranean voyage.
Looking for last minute cruise & travel items? I’ve put together over 30 awesome deals on cruise essentials, travel gadgets & fashion finds for women & men! On a personal note, I’m sharing what my own Amazon finds & holiday gifts for an upcoming family cruise.Great last minute amazon gifts that will arrive in time for Christmas. Perfect gifts for cruisers, whether it’s a first cruise or a cruise gift idea for yourself!
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Get the Life Well Cruised ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER ($10 off for a limited time). The printable planner includes 47 pages of checklists, packing lists, shore excursion forms & more! here: https://lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-… ______ The links in this description are affiliate links, meaning that I make a commission on purchases you make through my links, at no extra cost to you.
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ABOUT ME Hi! I’m Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking. ____________ Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic
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🛳 Get a Free cruise quote with MEI-Travel: http://bookmeicruise.com/lifewellcruised || These cruise embarkation day tips will help you plan, prepare & actually have the best first day of your cruise!
This is because what you do, or don’t do, on boarding day will impact your cruise!In this video I share embarkation cruise tips that you haven’t heard before, along with the reasons why smart & savvy cruisers plan to start their cruise vacation this way. If you’re looking for new cruise tips & tricks, this video is full of actionable tasks that will improve your cruise!
While many of this cruise travel advice applies to people cruising for the first time, there are also tips that repeat cruisers will want to consider. Whether you cruise with Royal Caribbean Carnival, Princess Cruises, Holland America, Celebrity, MCS Cruises or any other cruise line, these travel tips will be useful!
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Please note that I am unable to give personal cruise and travel advice. If you leave a comment I try my best to answer.
ABOUT ME Hi! I’m Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
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A honeymoon is a time to get away from it all and not worry about anything. So an all-inclusive cruise is a great option! You want to be enjoying your time loved up, not worrying about money, right?
But which all-inclusive cruise should you choose? My husband and I went on an all-inclusive cruise for my honeymoon, it was our first cruise and luckily, we picked a good one!
But you shouldn’t leave a huge event like this to luck. So, I’ve listed the top seven cruise lines for honeymooners to choose from…
For a lot of these cruise lines, you’ll need to add on extra packages to make them all-inclusive. If you’re only interested in cruises that are truly all-inclusive, then check out my list of all-inclusive cruise lines for that.
1. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean is a great honeymoon option for those fun-loving couples who are always on the go. With exciting amenities on board like rock-climbing walls, zip lines and water slides, there’s never a dull moment sailing with this cruise line.
It’s also a fantastic choice if you’re planning a honeymoon with your family as the options for children are incredible. Award-winning kid’s clubs and entertainment are sure to keep the little ones occupied while you settle into the adult-only solarium or visit the speciality dining venues or casino.
Royal Caribbean is the cruise line we sailed with for our honeymoon so of course I had to put it first on the list!
What’s Included With Royal Caribbean
Standard sailings with Royal Caribbean include:
Your accommodation
Full-board complimentary dining options from morning to evening
Complimentary drinks including water, lemonade, tea, coffee, hot chocolate and juices
Entertainment featuring Broadway-style productions
Lounges, bars, casinos and nightclubs
Fitness facilities
Activities such as FlowRider, rock-climbing wall, and mini golf
Premium-level service
Solarium on Anthem of the Seas
Anything else such as WiFi, tips, shore excursions, spa treatments, selected non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, speciality dining venues, selected activities, tours and classes will require additional charges.
Many of these can be pre-paid before boarding which makes life easier once you’re on the ship. Some of the main things people look to include are pre-paid tips, WiFi and drinks packages.
You can find out more about the prices of these packages and other additional amenities you can add with Royal Caribbean here.
Honeymoon Gifts
Couples can set up a honeymoon registry with Royal Caribbean so that friends and family can purchase selected additions including drinks packages, onboard credit, spa treatments and shore excursions. This comes with options to create a free wedding website and build a custom wedding gift list for your honeymoon wishes.
2. Celebrity Cruises
For a modern and stylish celebration, Celebrity Cruises brings options for newlyweds seeking a more sophisticated getaway. A great choice for those cruising with older or no kids, this more premium style of sailing is ideal for spending time just the two of you.
The dining onboard is fantastic, with a wide range of options from morning until evening, alongside entertainment akin to West End-style shows and unique venues such as the Magic Carpet and Eden on-board Edge Class ships, Celebrity Cruises are a great honeymoon choice.
Magic Carpet on Celebrity Beyond
What’s Included With Celebrity Cruises?
Standard cruise fares with Celebrity Cruises include:
Your accommodation
Full-board complimentary dining options from morning to evening
Complimentary drinks including water, lemonade, tea, coffee, and juices
Room service from 6 am to 11 pm
Entertainment featuring West End-style productions
Lounges, bars, casinos and nightclubs
Fitness facilities
Premium-level service
Sunset Bar on Celebrity Beyond
Celebrity Cruises offers their standard cruises as Cruise Only fare, with the option to upgrade all sailings with their All Included package. This includes a Classic Drinks Package and Basic WiFi. You’ll still need to pay for tips though as they’re no longer included in the All Included fare.
Additional extras such as shore excursions, spa treatments, speciality dining venues, selected activities, tours and classes will also require additional charges.
However, if you want to book a suite for your Celebrity Cruises honeymoon rather than a regular stateroom, you’ll get more included…
Suite guests get access to The Retreat – a luxury social and dining space which is exclusive to suite guests. It’s a perfect indulgence for those celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon.
Depending on which suite you book, you’ll also get a Premium drink package, unlimited speciality dining, WiFi and laundry.
Another option for an all-inclusive honeymoon is to book a stay in one of Celebrity Cruises’ Aqua Class staterooms.
Aqua Class staterooms get access to the exclusive clean cuisine restaurant, Blu, as well as visits to the Sea Thermal Suite, complimentary fitness classes and discounted spa packages.
Find out more about the prices of these packages and other additional amenities you can add with Celebrity Cruises here.
Honeymoon Gifts
Couples celebrating on Celebrity Cruises can also enjoy additional honeymoon cruise packages from the Bon Voyage gifts collection. These include add-ons which can be purchased by the newlyweds themselves or added by friends and family as a token gift!
The collection includes flower arrangements, wines, spirits and champagnes, keepsakes, Celebrity Cruises apparel, culinary delights and even onboard credit.
3. Virgin Voyages
Aimed at ‘sailors’ seeking a super-yacht lifestyle with plenty of fun, food and fitness, Virgin Voyages brings a fresh new approach to cruise and honeymooners.
Available only to those 18 years and over (no there will be no kids splashing you in the pool), Virgin Voyages has a party-like atmosphere while also offering modern accommodations, a breadth of foodie experiences and awe-inspiring shows.
Newlyweds who are seeking more fitness-oriented daytime activities, with late-night entertainment and incredible dining will fit in perfectly with Virgin Voyages’ audience.
What’s Included With Virgin Voyages?
Standard Virgin Voyages cruises include:
Your accommodation
All food from refined dining to relaxed casual at over 20 eateries
Essential Drinks, including still and sparkling water, non-pressed juices, sodas, teas and drip coffee
WiFi
Tips
Group fitness classes including yoga, meditation, cycling, HIIT and more
Shows and entertainment
Lounges, bars, casinos and nightclubs
To make your cruise fully all-inclusive with Virgin Voyages, you can add a Bar Tab (the cruise line’s answer to a drinks package), and this will also cover any alcoholic drinks as well as the already included Essential Drinks.
Accommodation options also include super-swanky suites such as the Massive Suite and Posh Suite. With these comes even more all-inclusive amenities such as a bottomless in-room bar, complimentary parking at the terminal in Miami, 24/7 agent attention, a daily Bar Tab, spa access and priority access to onboard and ashore experiences.
Honeymoon Gifts
For something even more special, Virgin Voyages offers the ‘Splash of Romance Experience’. Currently only available on Scarlet Lady, this package offers enhanced boarding, wristband set, curated daily cold-pressed juices, two three-house Thermal Spa passes, a Shake for Champagne, exclusive sail away hour and foodie cabin drops.
The package is $250 per cabin for two and is limited to the first 50 cabins per voyage.
4. P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises is a popular choice for honeymooners looking to sail from the UK, with most ships departing from Southampton throughout the year. This gives couples plenty of itinerary options without the need for long-haul flights, which can be especially appealing straight after a wedding.
The cruise line is tailored to British tastes, with traditional pubs, familiar dining options such as Sunday roasts, and onboard spending in pound sterling. While most ships are family-friendly, Arcadia and Aurora are adults-only, making them particularly attractive for couples seeking a quieter, more romantic atmosphere.
In December 2025, P&O Cruises expanded its offering beyond drinks-only packages by introducing optional all-inclusive-style packages on cruises of five nights or longer. Available on all fare types, these packages allow honeymooners to prepay for key onboard extras such as drinks, WiFi and speciality dining, helping to keep costs predictable.
Two package levels are available. Both include a drinks package and WiFi, along with speciality dining credit that can be used in restaurants such as Sindhu and Epicurean. The amount of dining credit increases on longer cruises and with the higher-tier package, making it easier for couples to enjoy romantic meals without worrying about the bill.
What’s Included With P&O Cruises?
All P&O Cruises fares include:
Your accommodation
Main dining and buffet restaurants
Tea, coffee, water, milk, fruit juices and cordial
Entertainment and live shows
Gyms and fitness facilities
Pools, whirlpools and spa access
Daily activities and onboard events
Children’s clubs (on family-friendly ships)
Economy flights and coach transfers on fly-cruise packages
Additional extras include shore excursions, spa and beauty treatments, alcoholic drinks outside of packages, room service, wifi upgrades and dining in speciality restaurants beyond any included credit.
For honeymooners, P&O Cruises offers a flexible balance between a traditional cruise fare and optional all-inclusive upgrades, with adults-only ships and speciality dining venues providing plenty of opportunities for romantic experiences at sea.
Newlyweds can have some of the additional extras covered with the ability to pre-order gifts as part of their honeymoon registry. Friends and family can order chocolates, wine, and even tours of the ship for the newly married couple to enjoy.
5. Marella Cruises
Marella Cruises is a fantastic choice for honeymooners who want a relaxed, great-value holiday with a warm and friendly British vibe. With All Inclusive fares as standard, Marella takes the stress out of planning a honeymoon and lets couples enjoy their cruise without constantly thinking about extra costs.
Despite being a British cruise line, Marella never sails from the UK – instead, all cruises include your flights already so that you begin your holiday right in the thick of the action, whether that’s the Med, the Canary Islands, or the Caribbean.
The fleet includes adults-only ships like Marella Explorer 2, ideal for honeymooners seeking some peace and quiet.
You’ll find plenty of entertainment, delicious dining options, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that’s ideal for celebrating a special occasion like your honeymoon.
What’s Included With Marella Cruises?
Marella Cruises is one of the few cruise lines where “All Inclusive” actually applies, because you get loads included in your fare:
Your accommodation
Dining across various restaurants, from buffet to à la carte options
A wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks including cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, soft drinks, tea, and coffee
Entertainment including West-End-style shows, live music and themed evenings
Tips and service charges
Flights and transfers (for fly-cruise packages)
Access to pools, gyms, and a variety of onboard activities
While most of what you need is included in the cruise fare, there are still optional extras you can pay for – such as premium drinks packages, shore excursions, spa treatments, some speciality dining venues, and WiFi.
For those looking to go all out, Marella also offers cabins with a balcony or hot tub, and access to upgraded dining venues.
Honeymoon Gifts
You can pre-order a range of gifts and little added extras for your Marella cruise, although you do need to call to do so. These extras range from a celebration cake for around £20, right through to a “Celebrate in Style” package for £125.
This includes champagne, chocolate-dipped strawberries (where available) and fresh flowers in your cabin, breakfast in bed on a day of your choice, a cake and an announcement in Cruise News onboard, plus a professional photograph.
6. Azamara
Couples looking for more of a premium-luxury experience can enjoy a honeymoon with Azamara. This cruise line offers smaller, more intimate-sized ships for travellers looking to explore destinations out-of-the-ordinary.
Newlyweds can look forward to a romantic honeymoon with a ‘just right’ feeling – the ships aren’t too large to bring big crowds with no space to yourselves, while they also aren’t too small where you feel like you have nowhere to go. These mid-sized ships are ideal for personalised service and making you both feel truly special.
The size of these ships is also what allows the cruise line to visit more unique, hidden ports of call, perfect for all inclusive honeymoons where you want to explore! Think sailing through the centre of Bordeaux or through the Amalfi Coast…
What’s Included With Azamara?
Standard cruises with Azamara include:
Your accommodation
Tips
Selected standard spirits, international beers and wines
Bottled water, soft drinks, speciality coffees and teas
Self-service laundry
Shuttle service to and from port communities, where available
Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
Balcony Plus and Suite guests receive extra amenities such as Terry plush robes and butler service, but this depends on the stateroom or suite that you choose.
You can also make your cruise even more all-inclusive with a number of packages available to purchase. This includes a Beverage Package to enjoy more options and your preferred drinks at the bar; Speciality Dining Package to visit Prime C, Aqualina and more at a fixed price. There are also options for Internet Packages for WiFi and Spa Treatments for a bit of ‘me time’.
Honeymoon Gifts
Family and friends can also purchase Bon Voyage gifts from Azamara as a thoughtful token for newlyweds on board. This includes Champagne, liquor, small plates such as flower arrangements, chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate truffles and a shrimp platter, wine and speciality items including on-board credit for the bar, spa and ship-wide. There’s even an option to order their own plush Terrycloth bathrobe!
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is a dreamy honeymoon option for couples looking for a mix of romance, relaxation, and refined experiences.
It’s a great match for newlyweds who want to explore far-flung destinations like Alaska, Asia, or the South Pacific – all while enjoying luxurious touches and award-winning dining at sea. There are plenty of sailings in more traditional destinations like the Mediterranean and Caribbean, too.
Princess is especially appealing for honeymooners who appreciate thoughtful details like Movies Under the Stars®, adult-only sanctuaries, and indulgent spa treatments. With MedallionClass® technology on board, couples can also enjoy enhanced convenience – from ordering drinks to your sunbed to finding each other anywhere on the ship.
What’s Included With Princess Cruises?
Princess Cruises offers excellent value in its standard fare, which includes:
Your accommodation
Main dining room meals and casual dining venues
Complimentary room service (with limited hours)
Entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, live music, and Movies Under the Stars®
Pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers
Youth and teen programs (for those traveling with family)
Daily activities such as trivia, dance classes, enrichment talks, and more
You can also upgrade to a Princess Plus or Princess Premier fare to make your cruise a lot more inclusive. There’s too many inclusions to list everything here – check out my guide for more information.
There are plenty of extras you can book before you cruise for a Princess sailing. While there’s no default gift registry option, you can share a link to allow others to buy gifts for you if you prefer. All kinds of welcoming touches are available alongside spa and dining packages.
My Recommendation
Each cruise line offers fantastic all inclusive honeymoon cruises or newlyweds, whether they’re seeking late-night entertainment or relaxing by the pool, there’s a choice for all honeymooners.
Those wanting options to bring their family should look at cruise lines including P&O Cruises and Royal Caribbean, where you will find daily activities suited to all ages, plenty of dining options and a broad range of ships to choose from.
These have flexibility on what you can add on in terms of drinks, dining and more, so you can manage your budget accordingly too.
Couples with older children, or no children in tow, should seek out Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages for a more sophisticated experience with plenty fun, food and fitness (or poolside cocktails) to keep them happy!
These include many amenities upfront, such as WiFi and drinks, so you can look to indulge a little more when sailing without worrying about extra costs!
Marella and Princess both offer fantastic packages that have more inclusions. Marella’s more British in style, while with Princess you need to make sure you choose the right fare – but both are excellent choices.
For those wanting a truly luxurious experience, Azamara includes all you might need from the start. This means you can get on board and begin your sailing together stress-free. This cruise line is also ideal for those wanting time to themselves as the ships are more intimately sized and destination-focused.
Cruises are one of the best holidays around – everything you need in one place, endless food, sun, and cocktails on tap. The only catch? You’re sharing your floating paradise with several hundred overexcited children!
Now, to be clear: kids on cruises are great. Of course I would say that as ‘Cruise Mummy’.
They’re having the time of their lives, and rightly so. But if you’re travelling without little ones (or if you simply fancy a few moments of adult tranquillity), it can all get a bit much – the splashing in the pool, the queues for pizza, the shrieking down the corridors.
Luckily, staying sane on a cruise full of kids isn’t (all) about hiding in your cabin. With a little strategy and a few insider tricks, you can still have a blissfully calm, grown-up getaway.
Here’s how to have a chilled time (even on a mega ship in August!)
1. Choose Your Sailing Date Wisely
The easiest way to avoid the “family holiday frenzy” is simply not to sail when everyone else does. If you’re flexible, steer clear of school holidays – the difference is night and day.
When kids are on board, you might have four guests in every cabin instead of two – and that can mean almost twice as many people sharing the same facilities!
This is particularly true with the family-focussed cruis lines. I’ve sailed with Disney in the school holidays and in term-time and oh my goodness it’s a completely different experience.
But what about the fines for missing school? Well, where I live you only get a fine for missing a whole week. If you miss four days it’s frowned upon, but nothing bad actually happens. So I time this with a bank holiday or inset day, and can manage to get a week-long cruise without legal consequences.
However, that approach won’t work for everyone. What if you’re a teacher who can only cruise in the schoool hols? Or the parent of a teen with exams looming? I get it, so I have more tips for you…
2. Pick Your Ship Carefully
Not all ships are created equal. Some are floating adventure parks with water slides, surf simulators and bumper cars – incredible for families, but maybe not ideal if you’re looking for a peaceful week of reading and rum cocktails.
Older or smaller ships tend to attract fewer children simply because they don’t have as many kid-focused features.
However, just because a ship isn’t marketed at families doesn’t mean that your kids won’t love it. Take Holland America Line, for example. I sailed in August and there were barely any kids on board – yet the kids clubs are absolutely fantastic!
Other hidden gems include Fred. Olsen, who has dedicated family-friendly sailings only in the school holidays, and A-Rosa, a river cruise line which has an incredible family-friendly ship. Kids will love these ships, even if there are only a handful of other youngsters onboard.
Take a look at this video from when I took my kids on a Fred. Olsen cruise and you’ll see what I mean…
Okay but what if you’ve already booked a family mega ship in the school hols? Fear not, you can make this work with my next tips…
3. Head To The Adults-Only Areas
Pretty much every family-friendly ship has an adult only area. On Disney ships, you’ll find an adults-only sun deck, pool, hot tubs, cafe and several bars and restaurants where kids aren’t allowed. These are so big that you could spend your whole cruise here and never see a child if you wish!
These spots are always quieter, calmer and blissfully free of cannonballs.
Usually the adult-only areas are free of charge and you don’t need to book. But there are some ‘premium’ spaces like The Sanctuary on Princess Cruises or The Retreat on P&O Cruises where you’ll need to pay a fee. You can book a day or buy a pass for your whole cruise.
Adult areas are well worth it and they’re the perfect place to go when your kids are in the kids club. Even an hour a day in the solarium with a cocktail and a good book can completely reset your mood.
4. Time Your Pool Visits Like a Pro
Cruise pools are prime kid territory, and the busiest hours are predictable. Midday, especially on sea days, is when every child onboard descends on the pool deck like it’s a theme park.
So plan around it. Early morning swims are peaceful, with just a few quiet sunbathers around. Late afternoons can also be calm – many families head to early dinners or pre-show activities then.
Bring your towel, a pair of sunglasses and even those waterproof headphones with your favourite playlist, and you’ll wonder if you’re even on the same ship.
5. Embrace the Specialty Restaurants
Buffets are fun, but during family-heavy cruises, they can feel like feeding time at the zoo. Plates pile up, queues stretch out, and someone inevitably drops ice cream near your flip-flops.
The solution? Treat yourself to the speciality restaurants. They’re not just about better food – they’re calmer, quieter, and generally kid-free (or at least have fewer).
Steakhouses, sushi bars, seafood spots, wine-pairing dinners – they’re all designed for a slower pace. Book ahead and make it your nightly ritual. You’ll never look at the buffet in quite the same way again.
6. Escape on Port Days
Port days are the perfect chance to reclaim some serenity if you’ve accidentally booked yourself onto a cruise packed with children.
Wander a quiet beach, explore a museum, linger over lunch in a café or take an excursion that lasts most of the day. Even just sitting by the harbour with an iced coffee while the crowds tackle a family snorkel trip can feel like bliss.
You’ll return to the ship refreshed – and probably just as everyone else starts queuing for dinner.
And if you’re in a port where there are a lot of family-friendly activities and attractions ashore, consider staying onboard – most of the kiddos will be off on day trips with their parents, and you can make the most of a quieter ship.
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7. Visit the Spa (And Stay There)
On a ship full of families, the spa becomes a haven.
It’s more than massages – many cruise spas have saunas, steam rooms, heated loungers, and quiet relaxation zones where phones are off and whispers are mandatory.
You can often buy a “thermal suite pass” for the week, giving you unlimited access to these peaceful spaces. Go in the morning before breakfast or mid-afternoon when things get loud elsewhere.
It’s the best kind of escape: guilt-free and air-conditioned.
8. Book a Balcony Cabin
Sometimes, the simplest solution is also the best one. A balcony cabin gives you your own little slice of peace – no competition for loungers, no noise, just sea views and fresh air.
Morning coffee while watching the ship glide into port? Bliss. Evening wine while the stars come out? Even better. When the pool deck feels chaotic, you can retreat to your private oasis without feeling like you’re missing out.
It’s worth every extra penny for the sanity it brings.
There’s a risk with this one, because your neighbours could be a family who aren’t the most peaceful when they’re on the balcony.
But most families aren’t spending hours being loud in their cabin – so it should be a peaceful space most of the time.
9. Lean Into Adults-Only Entertainment
When the kids head off to bed, the ship transforms. Comedy clubs, piano bars, wine tastings, silent discos – most evening entertainment for adults is 18+ and feels like a completely different cruise.
It’s your chance to enjoy the ship without queuing behind a family of six. Whether it’s a live band in a lounge or a late-night karaoke session, you’ll find a relaxed, fun crowd and a welcome sense of calm.
Bonus: the pool deck is magical at night. Quiet, breezy and beautifully lit – a total contrast to daytime mayhem.
On some family cruises, the kids might be staying up much later than they would at home – and curfews can be quite late still. So don’t assume the ship will feel adults-only once 10pm hits.
Still, you should be able to find plenty of options in the evenings where the kids aren’t interested or are outright banned.
10. Befriend the Crew
Crew members are the unsung heroes of every cruise. They know where the quiet corners are, which bars never get busy, and which times to visit the buffet when it’s peaceful.
A friendly chat can get you invaluable insider tips – like which side of the ship gets the best sunset views or when the solarium is emptiest.
They’ve seen it all, and most love sharing advice with polite, easy-going passengers. So smile, say hello, and let them guide you to the calm you’re craving.
11. Adjust Your Expectations – And Laugh About It
At the end of the day, it’s still a family holiday. There will be splashing, running, shouting and possibly the occasional ice-cream-related incident.
The trick is not to fight it. You’re on holiday too, and a bit of background chaos comes with the territory. Laugh it off, find your quiet corners, and remind yourself that those kids are having the kind of fun you’d have killed for at their age.
And when in doubt? Noise-cancelling headphones and a cold drink work wonders.
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Final Word
A cruise full of kids doesn’t have to mean a week of stress. With a bit of timing, a few smart choices and the right mindset, you can enjoy all the best parts of life at sea without feeling like you’ve joined a school trip.
Seek out the quiet spaces, plan your escapes, and treat yourself to the occasional indulgence. Because even surrounded by water wings and pool noodles, peace at sea is still perfectly possible – and you might just return home feeling more relaxed than you expected.
The first day of a cruise is one of the most exciting moments of any holiday. You’ve spent weeks counting down, your bags are packed, and the ship is finally waiting for you…
It’s the start of your adventure, a chance to explore somewhere new, meet interesting people, and settle into life at sea. But amidst all that excitement, there are a few smart moves that can make your embarkation day run far more smoothly – and a few common mistakes that can make things stressful.
Whichever cruise line you’re sailng with, these practical do’s and don’ts will help you start your voyage in the best possible way.
1. Do: Arrive Early, But Not Too Early
If you can, arrive in your embarkation city the day before your cruise. It might feel like an unnecessary extra night in a hotel, but it’s well worth it.
Flights can be delayed, trains can be cancelled, and traffic jams can happen at the worst possible time. Getting there the night before gives you a safety cushion and lets you start your holiday without that frantic travel-day rush.
Once you’ve arrived, treat that extra morning as part of the holiday itself. Go for a walk around the local area, have a relaxed breakfast, or do a bit of sightseeing before heading to the terminal.
The only exception to this rule would be if you live within a couple of hours’ drive, and even then I’d be setting off with a few extra hours to spare. There’s always somewhere near the car park where you can go for a coffee if you end up having the easiest drive possible and you’re too early (more on ‘too early’ later…)
2. Do: Hand Off Your Luggage (But Keep a Carry-On)
When you arrive at the port, you’ll see porters waiting to collect passengers’ larger bags.
Hand yours over so it can be delivered directly to your cabin later. In the United States, it’s customary to give them a small tip – a few dollars per bag is fine. In the UK, I noticed that the Americans usually tip the porters, but British people don’t. So you do whatever you feel comfortable with.
Keep a smaller carry-on bag with you for essentials such as travel documents, medication, phone chargers, a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for dinner if you want one. Your main luggage might not reach your cabin until early evening, so anything you’ll want before then should stay with you.
And whatever you do, don’t have your passport in your suitcase that you send onto the ship before you’ve checked in! People do that all the time and it’s an absolute nightmare trying to get them back.
The check-in process involves a lot of small steps, and you could be asked for your passport, boarding pass, and travel documents several times.
Keep them all together in a travel wallet or small folder rather than buried in your main bag.
Having everything ready when you reach the desk makes the process smoother for you and everyone else in line. It’s a small detail, but one that saves a lot of unnecessary rummaging and stress.
Also, it’s a similar point, but you’ll be passing through airport-style security scanners. So if you’re taking electronics, or have watches/belts etc, plan ahead a little so that you aren’t scrabbling to get everything ready when it’s your turn to put your bag on the belt.
Many cruise lines allow passengers to bring a small amount of wine, champagne, beer or soft drinks on board in their hand luggage.
Check your cruise line’s policy before you go, as the rules vary, but it’s often a nice way to start the trip with your preferred drink waiting in your cabin – and it’ll always be cheaper than buying onboard.
Just make sure you carry it on yourself rather than leaving it in checked luggage. Some cruise lines specify that this is what they want you to do.
Snacks are allowed too, and while there is plenty of food on the ship to enjoy, if you want sweets, crisps or chocolate you usually have to pay for these and they can be very expensive.
5. Do: Complete the Muster Drill
What’s involved in the safety drill will vary quite a lot depending on which cruise you take.
Most cruise lines now have an electronic muster drill, which involves watching a short safety video on your phone or cabin TV and then checking in at your designated muster station.
However, on a recent Star Clippers cruise, we had to put on our lifejackets and go to the muster station, then go again the next day for a second in-person drill that was an hour long and involved us being tested with questions about exactly what we should do in an emergency!
Usually, the muster drill only takes a few minutes, so it’s best to do it as soon as you board. That way you can get it out of the way early and won’t have to listen to repeated announcements later in the afternoon.
Or if you do have to listen to the announcements, at least you can be smug that you got yours done already.
6. Do: Make Reservations for Shows and Dining
Popular shows and restaurants can book up quickly, especially on larger ships.
This is another area where the procedured vary. On many cruises, you can make your reservations a few weeks before you sail. But on others, you can only do it once onboard the ship.
For example, on Virgin Voyages, you can reserve your dining from home, but there aren’t many slots available, so you may only see options to reserve 5pm or 9pm. But once you’re on the ship, more open up, so you can snap up those 7pm slots if you do it immediately after embarkation.
If you wait until the second day of your cruise, the best slots might be gone. So this is something that’s definitely worth doing as soon as you board. I like to sit down with a beer and make sure that I’ve reserved everything I can straight away.
If there’s a particular show you’re keen to see, try to reserve it early in the cruise, just in case weather or scheduling changes force a cancellation later on.
This is also a good time to double-check your dining arrangements. If you’d prefer a private table or need to confirm a dietary request, a quick visit to the main dining room staff can save any confusion later.
7. Do: Enjoy the Pool Before It Gets Busy
When passengers first board, most head to the buffet or start exploring, which means the pools and sun decks are often wonderfully quiet and you can have a fresh, clean hot tub to yourself!
Pack your swimwear in your carry-on so you can enjoy a relaxing dip or simply lounge by the water before the crowds arrive.
There’s something special about starting your cruise with that first swim under the sun while everyone is rushing around!
8. Do: Have Lunch Onboard, But Skip the Buffet Rush
One of the first things everyone loves to do on a cruise – and rightly so – is eat.
The main buffet will almost certainly be packed at lunchtime on embarkation day. If you’re onboard early enough, you’ll often find that the main dining room is open until about 2pm, which is a much more relaxing option.
You can also look for alternatives such as a café, pizzeria, or grill near the pool. All good options to avoid the mania that is the buffet on embarkation day.
If you’ve booked a speciality dining package, some restaurants even offer embarkation day discounts – a nice way to ease into your holiday without the crowds.
9. Do: Meet Your Cabin Attendant and Check Your Room
Once cabins are officially ready, take a moment to meet your cabin attendant. They’ll be the person looking after you for the week, and introducing yourself early helps build a friendly rapport.
Check that everything in your room works properly, including the lights, air conditioning, and safe. If you notice anything amiss, report it straight away so it can be sorted before you unpack.
Don’t be one of those people who endures a problem for the duration of your cruise, only to moan about it in a review once you leave! I find that most problems are fixed by the maintenence team within the hour.
And if you’d like any extras such as more hangers, extra pillow or an ice bucket, just ask and they’ll be happy to help.
Embarkation day is a brilliant time to explore areas of the ship that will be busier later on.
The spa usually host short tours and may offer discounts for early bookings. So if you want a peek inside all the treatment rooms and the relaxation area, now’s the time to do it.
Even if you’re not planning to spend hours exercising, it’s worth seeing what’s available – from saunas to sea-view treadmills – and maybe reserving a treatment for a later sea day.
11. Do: Carry a Few Small Notes for Tips
While most gratuities are automatically added to your onboard account, it’s still thoughtful to have a few small notes in your wallet.
A tip for the porter, a helpful bartender, or the person who carries your drink to the pool is always appreciated. It’s a nice personal touch that sets a positive tone for your trip.
Also bear in mind that ATMs may not be easily accessible once you’ve set sail, and any on the ship will likely have a hefty charge involved and may only dish out $50 notes as the smallest denomination. So, if you want to leave cash tips for your cabin steward, make sure you’ve been to the ATM before you cruise.
There’s nothing quite like that moment when the ship’s horn sounds and you begin to move away from the port.
Find a good spot on deck, order a cocktail or mocktail, and soak it all in.
Most ships host a sailaway party with music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a fun way to mark the start of your holiday, whether you’re right in the middle of the party or quietly watching from a balcony with a glass in hand.
13. Do: Explore the Ship
Spend some time wandering around to get your bearings. Cruise ships can be vast, and knowing where key spots like the dining rooms, spa, theatre, and lounges are will make life easier later.
I don’t know why, but I always feel a bit uneasy if I go to bed on day one and I haven’t walked around the whole ship yet!
You might even discover a hidden corner or quiet deck that becomes your favourite spot for morning coffee or sunset views.
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1. Don’t Fly In on the Same Day
This is one of the biggest mistakes first-time cruisers make. Flights are unpredictable, and the ship won’t wait for delayed passengers.
The only exception is if you’ve booked a fly-cruise package with Marella or P&O Cruises as they charter the whole plane for cruise guests.
That why I’ve said you should always arrive at least a day early. It’s far less stressful and gives you a proper rest before boarding.
I admit I have flown on the day of the cruise before, but only if the flight is under 2 hours and only if it’s at 6 am to make sure I land before 11 am. I didn’t enjoy it though and wouldn’t recommend it.
2. Don’t Arrive Before Your Assigned Check-In Time
Cruise terminals can only handle so many people at once, which is why lines now assign check-in windows.
Turning up hours early usually just means sitting around until your group is called. Stick to your designated time slot, breeze through the process, and you’ll board in a much better mood.
Yes, sometimes you’ll just be able to join the queue and board earlier, but if everyone does it then it means the queues are manic. So don’t be that person who assumes the time is just a suggestion.
When you first board, it’s tempting to head straight to your cabin, but the crew are still cleaning and preparing rooms at that stage.
Let them finish without interruption.
On rare occasions, passengers have found their door open, assumed it was ready, and left bags inside – only to discover later that their belongings had been removed by staff who thought they belonged to departing guests. Wait for the official announcement that cabins are ready before going in.
4. Don’t Rush to Guest Services
The Guest Services desk is often one of the busiest places on the ship during the first afternoon. Unless you have a genuine issue, such as a key card that won’t open your cabin, save your questions for the next morning or later in the evening when it’s quieter.
Most things can be sorted through the ship’s app anyway. And you don’t want to spend the first day of your cruise queuing unless you really have to.
The moment the ship leaves port, your mobile will search for a signal, and it may connect to a maritime network.
Those roaming charges can be astronomical. Seriously, people often come home with hundreds in charges.
I actually made this mistake very recently when I forgot to switch on airplane mode. Over the first night, my phone used up all my data. Luckily, I had a cap in place so it only cost me £10, but then my phone wouldn’t work until I went online and bought more data.
Switch to airplane mode before the ship sails away and connect to the ship’s WiFi if you need to stay in touch. Or get an eSIM that offers cruise coverage. They often give you a much better deal.
It’s easy to get carried away once you’re on board – souvenir photos, cocktails, spa offers, and duty-free shops all calling your name.
Take it slow and remember that you’ve got several days ahead. You want to enjoy the cruise, not live in regret as you watch that cruise account with its unsettled bill ready to pounce at the end of the sailing.
A little restraint early on keeps your account under control and prevents that dreaded shock. Plus spreading out the fun is a lot more, well, fun.
7. Don’t Try to Do Everything at Once
The first day on board is exciting, but you don’t need to cram in every activity. It can be tempting, but relax, you’ve got plenty of chances.
Take time to settle in, explore, and enjoy being at sea.
The beauty of a cruise is that you’ve got several days to experience it all, so start slow and savour the moment.
You’ll know the must-do attractions and shows for your family, so prioritise booking those but at a time that’s convenient for you. Day one doesn’t have to be the best day of the cruise, after all.
8. Don’t Wait to Book Shore Excursions
The most popular excursions sell out quickly.
If you haven’t already booked online before sailing, make it one of your first priorities once you’re on board. If you leave it too late, you could miss out, and that’ll just be disappointing.
Alternatively, research local options in each port if you prefer to explore independently. Some people view it as risky, because if you don’t book with the cruise line and something happens to stop you getting back in time, the ship would leave without you.
But there are third-party companies you can use to book in advance that offer return-to-ship guarantees, and that could get you a better deal anyway.
Embarkation day can be hectic. There might be queues, delayed luggage, or the occasional technical hiccup. Something might be wrong with your cabin, or you might not see everything you’ve pre-booked in the app.
It’s not common for there to be issues, but sometimes, things happen.
Go with the flow and keep your sense of humour. Once everyone’s settled and the ship is at sea, everything will quickly smooth out. A relaxed attitude makes all the difference, so don’t start your holiday stressed if you can avoid it.
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Your first day on a cruise sets the tone for everything that follows.
The key is to stay organised but not rushed, plan ahead while leaving space to relax, and let the small stuff slide.
Once you’re settled on deck with a drink in hand, watching the shoreline drift away, you’ll know the holiday has truly begun.
So, relax – and enjoy it! Day one is part of your cruise, after all!
