Posts in category: Cruise Tips

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When it comes to packing for a river cruise, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. With the right items in your suitcase, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy your adventures along the rivers of Europe.

Our Complete Viking River Cruise Packing List

Your footwear choices are important, from comfortable walking shoes for exploring picturesque villages to dressier shoes for elegant nights onboard. Be sure to pack travel documents, including your passport and any necessary visas.

It’s also wise to bring a travel umbrella for any changeable weather conditions. Remember to wear comfortable clothing items, such as lightweight layers for the summer months and clothing appropriate for visits to religious sites. This complete list will prepare you for an unforgettable river cruise experience.

Pack Your Cruise Carry-On Bag Wisely

Packing your cruise carry-on bag wisely ensures a smooth and hassle-free beginning to your trip. By including essential items in your carry-on, you can be prepared for any situation that may arise during travel.

First and foremost, it’s important to include a change of clothes in your carry-on. This is particularly essential in case your checked luggage is delayed or misplaced. A fresh set of clothes can provide comfort and peace of mind.

Remember to pack toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and any other personal care items you may need. Bringing any necessary medications in your carry-on bag is also a good idea. This will ensure that you have access to them throughout your journey.

Of course, essential documents such as your passport, travel insurance, and cruise reservation details should also be kept in your carry-on bag. These documents are essential for check-in and should be easily accessible.

Consider investing in wheeled under-seat luggage to make transporting your carry-on bag easier. These compact luggage options are ideal for carrying your essentials and can fit neatly under the seat before you, providing easy access throughout your journey.

Storage on Board a Viking River Long Ship

Regarding storage options on board a river cruise vessel, you’ll find ample drawer and cupboard space in the cabins to keep your belongings organized. Despite the limited space in the cabins, cruise ship designers have ensured enough storage to minimize clutter and ensure a comfortable living space.

The drawers in the cabin allow for easy storage of clothing items, accessories, and personal belongings. You can neatly stow away your folded clothes, undergarments, and even small electronics in these drawers, keeping them easily accessible and out of sight.

In addition to the drawers, there are cupboards in the cabin where you can hang your formal attire or other garments that must be kept wrinkle-free. These cupboards provide a convenient space to store your clothing items, giving you easy access whenever you need to dress up for formal nights or special occasions.

To further optimize storage space, you can slide empty suitcases or bags under the beds. This prevents them from taking up unnecessary space in the cabin and allows you to keep them safely stored during your river cruise. I also regularly place any dirty laundry back into one of my suitcases to help keep the cabin clean and uncluttered during the cruise.

Consider Your Cruise Itinerary

When packing for your Viking River cruise, it’s essential to consider your cruise itinerary. The destinations you’ll be visiting and the activities you’ll be participating in will determine what items you must bring along. Please pack the appropriate attire, such as dresses or suits, if your itinerary includes visits to religious sites or formal events. If you are exploring larger cities or participating in outdoor activities, comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for changeable conditions are a must. I want you to know that being mindful of your itinerary will help ensure you have all the necessary clothing and accessories to enjoy your Viking River cruise fully.

How Long is Your Cruise

When planning for your Viking River Cruise, it is essential to consider the length of your trip. Most river cruises range from 7 to 15 days, and it is crucial to plan accordingly for the duration of your cruise.

Knowing the length of your cruise is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps you determine the number of clothing items and accessories you will need to pack. For a shorter cruise, you may be able to get by with a few versatile clothing pieces, while a longer trip may require more variety.

Additionally, the length of your cruise affects the number of travel documents and essential items you should bring. For example, if your cruise itinerary takes you to multiple countries, you may need to bring different currencies or travel adapters for electrical outlets.

Understanding the length of your river cruise also allows you to plan for any on-board amenities or services you may need. For instance, longer cruises may require you to use laundry or dry cleaning services, while shorter trips may not require these services.

Are there Laundry Facilities on Board?

While Viking River Cruises does not offer self-service laundry facilities on most of their river cruise ships, they provide an onboard laundry service to cater to guests’ laundry needs. This convenient service allows you to wash your clothing items, dry and pressed, saving you the hassle of finding a laundromat during your cruise.

You do have the option to use self-service launderettes available on board ships sailing Mississippi itineraries. These self-service launderettes include irons and ironing boards and are free of charge, with detergent available for your use at no additional cost.

The prices for the laundry service on Viking River Cruises vary depending on the clothing item. For example, as of 2023, washing and pressing a shirt costs $8, while washing and pressing a blouse costs $8.50. Similar prices apply to other garments, such as underwear, nightgowns, and polo shirts.

The turnaround time for the laundry service is typically within 24 hours, ensuring that you receive your freshly cleaned clothes in a timely manner. This allows you to have clean and wrinkle-free garments throughout your cruise, whether exploring fascinating destinations or enjoying the onboard amenities.

Please keep in mind that prices and turnaround times are subject to change, so it’s always recommended to consult Viking River Cruises’s latest information regarding their laundry service.

So, while self-service laundry facilities may not be available on board Viking River cruises, their convenient onboard laundry service ensures you can easily care for your laundry needs during your river cruise vacation.

Review the Shore Excursions

When you embark on a Viking River cruise, you can look forward to various exciting shore excursions that showcase the best of each destination. From optional easy hikes to cultural evening excursions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For those interested in cultural experiences, Viking River Cruises offers a variety of evening excursions. These excursions often include visits to iconic landmarks or historic sites, where you can learn about each destination’s rich history and local traditions.

What to Wear on a River Cruise

When packing for a river cruise, it’s important to consider the activities and destinations you’ll be exploring. While river ships tend to have a relaxed atmosphere, a few occasions may call for slightly dressier attire.

Although Viking doesn’t have any designated Formal nights, guests can dress up and enjoy special evenings onboard. However, comfortable and casual clothing is recommended for most of your cruise.

Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ports of call and a dressier pair for any evening events. You can choose to pack light and use the onboard laundry services available.

Pack with Mix and Match in Mind

When packing for a river cruise, it’s important to pack with mix and match in mind to maximize your outfit options while keeping your luggage light and compact. Here are five tips to help you pack smartly for your river cruise:

1. Consider a predominantly neutral color scheme: Choose clothing items in versatile neutral colors like black, white, navy, and khaki. This will make it easier to mix and match different pieces together.

2. Pack versatile travel pants: Invest in comfortable and wrinkle-resistant travel pants that can be dressed up or down. Look for pants made from lightweight and quick-drying fabrics for maximum comfort during your cruise.

3. Add accessories for pops of color: To add variety and personality to your outfits, pack a brightly colored scarf, shawl, or jacket. These accessories instantly transform a basic outfit into a stylish and eye-catching ensemble.

4. Don’t forget a dressier outfit: While river cruises are generally casual, there may be occasions or dining events that call for dressier attire. Pack a versatile dress or pair of dress pants, a blouse, or a dress shirt for these special occasions.

5. Mix and match outfits: Before packing, plan your outfits by mixing and matching different tops, bottoms, and accessories. This will help you pack more efficiently and ensure that you have various outfit options for different occasions throughout your cruise.

Following these tips and packing with mix and match in mind, you can create a versatile and compact wardrobe for your river cruise that will keep you stylish and comfortable throughout your journey.

Layer Your Outfits

When packing for a river cruise, it’s essential to consider layering outfits to accommodate changes in temperature and different occasions. Here are some key clothing items to include for effective outfit layering:

Tops: Opt for versatile tops that can be easily layered. Pack a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops in neutral colors like black, white, or navy. When the temperature drops, these can be worn alone on warmer days or paired with jackets or scarves.

Jackets: Bring lightweight jackets that can easily be layered over your tops. Consider a denim jacket or a lightweight cardigan that can be worn indoors and outdoors, adding warmth and style to your outfits.

Scarves and Shawls: These accessories provide an extra layer of warmth and add a pop of color and style to your outfits. Pack a couple of scarves or shawls in different patterns and colors to mix and match with your tops and jackets.

Remember to choose versatile pieces that can be easily layered and removed as needed. This will ensure you stay comfortable and adaptable to changing weather conditions and activities during your river cruise. With these layering options, you’ll be ready for any occasion while maintaining a stylish and practical wardrobe.

Viking River Cruise Day Wear

Regarding cruise day wear on a river cruise, comfort is key. Opt for comfortable, casual attire that allows for easy movement and enjoyment of the various activities onboard. Lightweight trousers or jeans paired with breathable, lightweight tops are a great choice. Choose tops in neutral colors that can be easily mixed and matched with different bottoms.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the various ports of call. Pack a pair of sturdy, comfortable shoes that withstand long walks and uneven terrain. A lightweight jacket or sweater is also a good addition to your cruise day attire, especially for cooler weather or air-conditioned areas onboard.

In addition to the basics, consider bringing a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun while enjoying the outdoor areas of the cruise. A lightweight travel scarf can also be a versatile accessory, providing extra warmth when needed or adding a pop of color to your outfit. Remember to pack clothing items that you feel comfortable and confident in, as you’ll spend ample time exploring and socializing onboard the river ship.

Viking River Cruise Evening Wear

While there are no formal nights on a Viking River cruise, passengers can dress up for the evening if they wish. The dress code for cruise evenings is generally elegant casual, allowing you to be stylish and comfortable at the same time.

A dress, skirt, or even a nice pair of pants paired with a blouse or sweater would be appropriate for women. You can also mix and match different pieces to create multiple outfits throughout your trip. Adding accessories like statement necklaces or scarves can elevate your look even more.

Men can opt for trousers paired with collared shirts. A blazer or sports coat can add a touch of sophistication to the outfit.

The key is to feel confident and put together while still being comfortable. Remember, the evenings on a river cruise are more about relaxation and enjoying the company of fellow passengers rather than adhering to a strict dress code. So, feel free to express your personal style and have fun with your evening attire.

Pack for the Conditions

When packing for a river cruise, preparing for various weather conditions is essential. Whether cruising through cold and wet climates or enjoying sunny and hot destinations, having the right items can make all the difference in your comfort and enjoyment.

For colder and wetter weather, you must pack lightweight gloves and a hat to keep you warm. Layering is also essential, so bring a variety of long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes with good traction are a must-have to navigate slippery decks and cobblestone streets.

On the other hand, protecting yourself from the sun’s rays is essential when cruising in sunnier and hotter destinations. Pack plenty of sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Comfortable walking shoes are still important, as you’ll likely explore ports of call during your cruise.

Regardless of the weather conditions, comfortable walking shoes are a necessary item to pack for a river cruise. With the amount of walking and exploring you’ll be doing, it’s important to have shoes that provide support and cushioning. Consider packing a pair that can be dressed up for formal nights and a more casual pair for daytime activities.

Best Shoes for a Viking River Cruise

When it comes to choosing the best shoes for a river cruise, comfort and practicality should be your top priorities. Given the amount of walking and potential uneven surfaces you may encounter, it’s crucial to pack comfortable walking shoes with good grip. This will ensure that you can easily navigate slippery decks and cobblestone streets, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Look for shoes with solid traction to provide stability, especially during wet weather.

In addition to a sturdy pair of walking shoes, bringing a second pair of day shoes to wear around the ship is also advisable. These can be more relaxed, offering support and comfort as you explore the ship’s various amenities. For evening excursions, it’s worth considering packing one pair of dressier shoes to complement your attire for formal nights or when visiting more upscale establishments.

Consider wearing compression socks during long-haul flights to keep your feet feeling their best. These socks can help prevent swelling and improve circulation, ensuring you arrive at your river cruise destination with happy and comfortable feet ready for exploration.

Personal Items, Adapters & Chargers

Viking River ships are equipped with North American and European power outlets so that you can charge your devices without worry. However, bringing a universal adapter to ensure compatibility with any outlets you encounter during your travels is always a good idea. This will allow you to charge your phone, camera, or any other electronic device conveniently, keeping you connected and capturing precious memories throughout your European river cruise.

While Viking provides a selection of toiletries in each cabin, you may still prefer to bring specific personal products you are accustomed to. This could include shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, or any other toiletries you require for your daily routine.

Furthermore, Viking River cruise cabins are usually equipped with USB ports, making it even easier to charge your devices. You can leave those bulky chargers at home and bring your USB cables for quicker and more convenient charging.

Travel Documents

When preparing for a Viking River cruise, one of the most crucial aspects is having all the necessary travel documents in order. These documents ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their river cruise experience.

First and foremost, guests should have their passports readily accessible. Passports are required for international travel and serve as proof of identity. Ensuring your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date is essential. Additionally, some countries may require a visa for entry. It is vital to research and obtain any necessary visas before your trip.

In some instances, some river cruise itineraries may require guests to have specific vaccination records. This is particularly important for destinations where certain diseases are prevalent. To avoid complications, check with your healthcare provider or visit a travel clinic to receive the necessary vaccinations and obtain the corresponding records.

Bring a Day Bag

When embarking on a river cruise, having a well-equipped day bag is important to make the most of your port stops and excursions. A smaller bag is recommended for convenience and easy carrying during your day trips.

Here are some essential items to include in your day bag for a river cruise:

1. Travel documents: Securely keep your identification and necessary visas in your day bag.

2. Money and credit cards: Ensure you have enough cash and credit cards to cover expenses during your day trips.

3. Bottled water and snacks: Stay hydrated and energized throughout the day with a refillable water bottle and some nutritious snacks.

4. Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays by packing sunscreen and a hat to shield your face from the heat.

5. Raincoat or umbrella: Be prepared for changeable conditions with a lightweight raincoat or a compact, collapsible umbrella.

6. Comfortable walking shoes: Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking during your shore excursions.

7. Camera or smartphone: Capture extraordinary moments and scenic views with a camera or smartphone to document your river cruise experience.

8. Map or guidebook: Carry a map or guidebook of the destinations you will visit to help you navigate and learn about the history and culture.

What to Leave at Home

When packing for a river cruise, it’s essential to consider what items you can leave at home to avoid unnecessary clutter in your suitcase. Most river cruise ships provide standard amenities and services, making items redundant. Here are some things you can confidently leave behind:

1. Computers: River cruise ships typically offer Wi-Fi and onboard computers for guest use, so there’s no need to bring your laptop or tablet.

2. Hairdryers: River ships usually provide hairdryers in cabin bathrooms, so you can save space by not packing your own.

3. Excess clothing: River cruises tend to have a relaxed atmosphere, so there’s no need to pack fancy formal wear or multiple outfits for every day. Stick to comfortable, casual clothing that can be mixed and matched.

Remember to pack essentials like travel documents, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture precious memories. By leaving unnecessary items behind, you’ll have a lighter load and more room for those souvenirs you will surely pick up along the way. Happy cruising!

Check the Weather Forecast

When preparing for your Viking River Cruise, it’s important to check the weather forecast for the cities and destinations you plan to visit. Here are the steps to ensure you are well-prepared:

1. Research the destinations: List the cities and ports of call along your river cruise itinerary. This will help you narrow down the areas you need to check the weather.

2. Use reputable weather websites or apps: Check weather forecast websites or reliable weather apps for up-to-date information. Some popular options include AccuWeather, Weather.com, and the Weather Channel app.

3. Enter the specific location: Enter the name of each city or destination you’ll be visiting to retrieve accurate weather information. Please pay attention to hourly and daily forecasts to fully understand the expected conditions.

4. Consider the river breeze: During the summer, river cruises can experience cool breezes. Pack a lightweight jacket or sweater to layer up in case the evenings or early mornings are chilly.

5. Be prepared for changeable conditions: Weather can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack clothing that can be layered to adapt to different conditions. This way, you’ll be ready for both warm and cooler temperatures.

Follow the Dress Code & Pack Accordingly

When preparing for a river cruise, it’s essential to consider the dress code and pack accordingly carefully. Here are key points to keep in mind:

1. Check the dress code: Viking’s river cruise dress codes states the following in 2024

The river cruise itinerary provides a detailed schedule of the ports you will visit and the activities available at each stop. From historic landmarks to charming villages, each destination offers its own set of experiences. By looking over the itinerary, you can prioritize the excursions that interest you the most and make arrangements if you need them.

For example, if the itinerary includes visits to historic sites or religious landmarks, it is essential to pack appropriate clothing items that cover the shoulders and knees. On the other hand, if you plan to embark on outdoor adventures like hiking or biking tours, pack appropriate attire and footwear.

The river cruise itinerary will outline any unique outings or activities, such as wine tastings, culinary experiences, or cultural performances. Knowing these details in advance allows you to pack any necessary items, such as formal attire for special events or comfortable attire for more relaxed outings.

Keep It Simple

When it comes to packing for a Viking River Cruise, keeping it simple can make your journey all the more enjoyable. You can create multiple outfit combinations without overloading your suitcase by adopting a simple color scheme for your clothing items and packing mix-and-match options.

Comfort is key on a river cruise, so opt for comfortable and wrinkle-resistant clothing. Viking recommends comfortable walking shoes for exploring each port of call and a dressier pair for formal nights or special events.

Due to changeable conditions along the rivers, it’s wise to pack a lightweight jacket or sweater to layer up and adjust to the weather. Remember essentials like sunglasses and a sun hat to shield yourself from the sun’s rays during those leisurely days on deck.

While most river cruise ships provide umbrellas, it’s always a good idea to have a collapsible one in your bag in case of unexpected showers during excursions. This will ensure you stay dry while exploring.

Viking Packing Tips FAQ

I’ve always said that the best way to experience Alaska is on a cruise. “The Last Frontier” is surrounded by amazing waterways that define the way of life for its residents. These waters have always been vital as the region carved out its identity from pioneering and mining beginnings to its modern place as a hub of commercial fishing and tourism.

Alaska Cruise Comparison: Our Guide

So, let’s get this out of the way right up front: Any cruise to Alaska is going to be a special experience. So, there is no right way to cruise in Alaska – you’ll just have to choose which type of voyage is right for you.

I have been to Alaska three times, each on a different style of cruise ship.

I’ve explored little-visited spots through the intimacy and ruggedness of an expedition cruise with UnCruise Adventures.

I also sailed to Alaska’s historic frontier towns and cities with a couple thousand others on the larger Golden Princess cruise ship, which carries more than 2,500 passengers.

And, I was supremely spoiled when I was among the 700 passengers cruising in comfort on the luxury ship Regent Seven Seas Mariner.

Alaska Cruise Styles – Three Different Types Compared

So, what cruise style would you prefer?

I’ll tell you this: I enjoyed them all, because they each feature distinctive aspects of exploration and adventure that you’ll only find on that particular type of voyage.

Here is what you can expect . . .

Alaska On a Big Cruise Ship

Take a mass-market cruise ship to Alaska if you appreciate the wide variety of onboard activities that accompany an interesting enrichment program. While sailing in Southeast Alaska, the large ships such as Golden Princess offer a lot of outdoor deck space ideal for passengers to gather to observe wildlife during times of scenic cruising in fjords, channels and passages.

Princess Cruises

The ships also feature a naturalist who gives talks (heard over the loudspeaker) while you sail in special places like Glacier Bay National Park or Tracy Arm Fjord. If the weather is chilly, you have the option to watch from inside. The large public spaces on the big ships allow you to view through windows and often within a few steps of getting a nice cocktail or some food to savor as you gaze out the windows while sailing past bobbing icebergs or in the midst of glaciers.

Excursion programs

Excursion programs are varied and include things like helicopter rides, dogsledding and fishing experiences or bear-watching outings. You’ll visit mining towns and historic cities like Skagway, Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau.

However, these ports can get fairly crowded when the entire ship (or multiple ships) empties onto the streets of these tiny villages.

The benefit of the large-ship experience in Alaska is that you can enjoy your time cruising or in interesting ports while still having access to amenities like a gym, great restaurants, spa services and nightly included entertainment.

Alaska On a Luxury Cruise

You get to head out into the wilds of Alaska in style. My cruise on Regent Seven Seas Mariner was delightful because the ship carries just several hundred passengers — so you get to enjoy this great destination with a certain intimacy and level of comfort not available on other ships.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Mariner also features a large Observation Lounge where travelers gather to hear enrichment talks on the region, enjoy cocktails and live music while sailing in some of the prettiest places on earth in Southeast Alaska. Drinks, excursions, gratuities and even airfare and transfers are included in your fare.

On these types of cruises in Alaska, you’re going to get more gourmet food options and better service, as well as more space onboard and in your cabin. Every stateroom on our ship had a balcony, too, which is a must when cruising in Alaska. I opened the door to my veranda one morning just in time to see a humpback emerge, blow water from its spout, then slide back below the surface.

Luxury Cruise Benefits

You also will have entertainment, pools, hot tubs, fitness centers and spa services.

The best benefit of a luxury cruise in Alaska is the highly curated shore excursions that feature smaller group sizes, plus the great food and service. It’s a high-end, hassle-free trip because you get nearly everything included in your fare upfront.

Alaska On an Expedition

Any type of cruise in Alaska offers a feast for your eyes.

It’s a truly stunning place, filled with beautiful things to see.

An expedition cruise in Alaska, however, feeds your soul.

UnCruise Adventures

I sailed with UnCruise Adventures on its Wilderness Explorer ship on an itinerary that — true to the line’s name – was full of adventure. The ship carries a maximum of 84 passengers, and there were about half that many during my voyage in early spring.

Expedition ships are not fancy. The trips are more about what you can see and do off the ship. These cruises are ideal for travelers who want to get out into nature for active (even challenging) days.

They also appeal to nature-lovers, photography buffs and people who love to learn more about their destinations by interacting with expert guides and naturalists who provide daily enrichment talks and activities.

Expedition Cruise Benefits

I really enjoyed my time on UnCruise Adventures because a strong bond was quickly formed among our group of a few dozen like-minded travelers who didn’t mind the somewhat austere nature of the ship and stateroom accommodations. Instead, we formed camaraderie over tasty locally sourced meals, as well as daily excursions like hiking, snorkeling, kayaking and skiff tours.

On an expedition, you will sail to smaller islands and bays where you might be the only people. We went on 10-plus-mile hikes on rugged trails to see rivers, waterfalls, bogs, valleys and natural hot springs. Imagine sitting in a natural hot springs bath while looking up at snow-capped peaks.

Smaller Ship Advantages

The smaller ships get you closer to glaciers. The captain can also adjust the daily sailing schedule to move the ship to areas where creatures are spotted. Our Wilderness Explorer ship often would linger amid a pod of breeching whales, and we also had orcas and Dall’s porpoises follow along just feet from the sides and bow of the ship. It was a jaw-dropping experience to be that close to these animals. (Bald eagles were a daily sighting.)

We also kayaked about five miles against the winds and current into Misty Fjords National Monument. It was among the most grueling – yet satisfying – excursions I’ve ever enjoyed.

So, while the ship has limited amenities – a hot tub, bar, lounge and tiny cabins – this type of cruise is memorable for so many other reasons.

So, what kind of Alaska cruise is right for you? Hey, you might want to try them all just so you’ll know for sure.

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Your cruise vacation begins as soon as you set foot on the ship and receive that welcome glass of sparkling wine from the smiling crew members. 

To make the most of your valuable time and to get your cruise off to a great start, you’re going to want to have a smooth embarkation day. The process of getting on a big ship is notoriously one of the most stressful parts of the cruise experience. This is because so many others are arriving onboard at the exact same time, often leading to a crush of passengers in the same spaces until you all get spread out and settled in.

You can avoid some of the hassles and frustrations that keep you from finding your vacation groove by following our best tips and tricks to enjoy a hassle-free embarkation day. 

Before You Head Out 

Cruise lines allow you to check in for your cruise online. You can print out your ship’s “boarding passes” and create a file of your paperwork that is easy to access so you are ready to show the agents who greet you at the cruise port. This saves you from hold-ups that can result when you have to fill out forms and go through extra checks at the cruise terminal. 

Arrive Early, But Not Too Early 

Most large cruise lines “clear” their ships by 10 a.m. This is the process of getting all the passengers who are finishing their cruise just before yours off of the ship. If you arrive at the cruise pier before the ship is cleared, you will wait (and wait and wait). It makes sense that you want to get onboard as early as you can so that you can maximize the time on the ship and start enjoying the amenities and food.  

But after about 11 a.m. is probably the safest time to arrive and not expect too long of a wait. Some cruise lines offer a program like Carnival’s “Faster to the Fun” (for a fee) that gives you priority boarding for your cruise. If you book a suite, you also typically receive priority boarding perks. Consider these options if you want to be among the first passengers onto the ship.  

Drop the Bags 

Your staterooms are being turned over typically until about 2 p.m. when they will be all cleaned, prepared and ready for your stay. Until then, you need to do something with your luggage so that you don’t have to lug it around for a couple hours on the ship. 

You can lighten your load by dropping your bags curbside with the cruise terminal porters. They will load them onto big carts and ensure that they get onto the ship and eventually to your stateroom. Make sure you have affixed a baggage tag indicating your name and cabin number. You also should tip your porter a buck or two per bag. 

We generally like to carry on our own luggage on because we pack light and want to have it as soon as the cabins are available (bags left with the porter service can sometimes arrive hours after your staterooms are made available, which is frustrating). So, we go straight to our cabins to drop off our bags. Here is the trick: The corridors are usually closed to passengers while the cleaning is in progress. But you can open the doors, go to your stateroom and let your steward know that you simply want to slide the bags under the bed or somewhere else out of the way while they clean. Be polite and leave quickly, so he or she can get on with turning over the cabins. It’s a tough day for them, too, so don’t dawdle in the room and be sure to show appreciation for allowing you to drop off your bags. 

Avoid the Buffet 

Cruisers naturally arrive hungry and ready for lunch when they board their ship. The buffet is a hot spot, of course, and you will find crowds of people all in the same place as they quickly grab up tables and form lines at the buffet.  

This scene is perhaps the biggest source of frustration on embarkation day. Make your way to the main dining room or any of the smaller venues onboard that will be open for lunch, such as a poolside grill serving burgers and other sandwiches or the ship’s pizza eatery or café with lighter fare. 

You will be able to get something tasty and find a table without any problems. In the main dining room, you order from a menu and enjoy a much more relaxing experience as you are served by staff at your table. 

In the Bag 

Prepare a day bag or backpack to bring on that you can easily carry around with some items that you will want while you wait to get to your stateroom. Place essentials in it, such as a swim suit, book, Kindle, magazines, sunscreen, phone charger and any needed medications.  

This means you can use a restroom to change into your swim suit and start enjoying the pool and other amenities in comfort. 

Have a Look Around 

This is also a good time to give yourself a tour of the ship, going deck by deck to learn the layout and where everything is located. If you take an hour to learn all the spots on the ship, you’ll quickly pick out your favorite spots to enjoy during your cruise â€“ and be less likely to get lost. 

Get Your Goodies Booked 

While touring, stop by the spa for a tour and book any treatments you might want. If you have your eye on a massage or facial or other treatment, getting there early ensures that you get your preferred time and day for your appointment. Do this for any specialty restaurants, too, that you want to dine at. (Note: many cruise lines allow you to book dining online ahead of the cruise, and they even offer dining packages that include discounts.) 

Start Enjoying Your Cruise 

If you’ve followed all our tips, that means you have avoided the crowds, satisfied your appetite with a good meal, set up all your appointments for the cruise and learned your way around the ship. There is nothing left now except to order up your favorite fruity drink or cold beer and start enjoying your cruise vacation with all your new friends.

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