Cruising 101: Everything First-Time Cruisers Need to Know

If you’re considering your first cruise, welcome aboard! Cruising offers a unique and exciting way to travel — combining world-class dining, entertainment, relaxation, and exotic destinations, all in one floating resort. But like any new travel experience, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first.

This guide is here to walk you through the essentials every first-time cruiser should know, so you can set sail with confidence and make the most of your journey.

What Is a Cruise, Really?

A cruise is a vacation where you travel aboard a ship that takes you to multiple destinations — often called ports of call — while providing accommodation, meals, and entertainment along the way. Think of it as an all-in-one hotel, resort, and travel experience.

Choosing the Right Cruise for You

1. Pick the Right Destination

For first-timers, popular and easy-to-navigate destinations include:

• Caribbean: Perfect for beach lovers and warm-weather getaways
• Mediterranean: Great mix of culture, history, and food
• Alaska: For nature and adventure seekers
• Bahamas or Short Cruises (3–5 days): Ideal for first-timers testing the waters

Different cruise lines offer different vibes — and choosing one that matches your travel style makes all the difference. Here’s a quick breakdown of popular cruise lines:

Royal Caribbean: Great for families, thrill-seekers, and all-around fun

Carnival Cruise Line: Budget-friendly and entertainment-packed

MSC Cruises: Stylish ships with a European flair, great value and great for families

Costa Cruises: An Italian cruise line known for lively onboard atmosphere, Mediterranean itineraries, and affordability — popular with international travelers

Celebrity & Azamara Cruises: Upscale, modern, and ideal for couples or adults

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Flexible “Freestyle Cruising” with no set dining times, you get great quality for the price

Princess Cruises & Holland America: More traditional and relaxed, popular with mature traveler

Silverseas, Ponant, Regent Seven seas & Seabourn: Ultra-luxury cruise lines offering small-ship experiences with a private yacht atmosphere. These are popular with affluent travelers seeking personalized service, gourmet dining, and exotic, less-traveled destinations.

What’s Included in Your Cruise Fare?

Most cruise fares include:

• Your cabin (also called a stateroom)
• All meals in main dining rooms and buffets
• Basic non-alcoholic drinks (water, coffee, tea, juice)
• Onboard entertainment and shows
• Use of pools, fitness center, and select activities

Not typically included:

• Alcoholic beverages and specialty coffees
• Shore excursions
• Wi-Fi (unless part of a promotion)
• Gratuities (tips)
• Specialty dining restaurants

📅 Before You Cruise: Key Planning Tips

✅ Book Early

You’ll get better cabin choices, pricing, and possibly perks like drink packages or Wi-Fi.

🛂 Get a Passport (and Check Visa Requirements)

If your cruise departs from outside the country. or visits international ports, a valid passport is usually required. In addition, you'll need to check the visa requirements for each country on your itinerary — just like you would when flying internationally.

In most cases, the cruise line will verify that you have the necessary visas and travel documents during check-in, but it’s still your responsibility to make sure everything is in order. Start this process early, as some visas can take time to obtain.

➡️ For example: If you're cruising in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, or South America, visa requirements can vary widely by nationality and destination.

💻 Check In Online Before You Sail

Most cruise lines allow — and strongly encourage — online check-in before your cruise, often opening up 30 to 45 days before departure. This step speeds up the embarkation process and lets you:

• Submit required travel documents and emergency contacts
• Choose an arrival time window for embarkation day
• Set up your onboard spending account (linked to a credit/debit card)
• Download or print your boarding pass and luggage tags

Checking in online in advance not only saves time at the terminal, but also ensures you’re fully prepared and won’t hit any paperwork-related delays on embarkation day.

✅ Pro tip: Most cruise lines also have mobile apps that make check-in even easier — and let you book dining, excursions, and more before you board!

✅ Arrive the Day Before

Flying in? Always arrive at your departure port a day early to avoid travel delays.

🛌 Understanding Cruise Cabins

Cabins come in four main types:

• Interior: No window, most budget-friendly
• Oceanview: Window with sea views
• Balcony: Private outdoor space
• Suites: Larger layouts with luxury perks

Tip: For first-timers, a balcony cabin can be worth the extra cost for fresh air and private views.

📅 What to Expect on Embarkation Day

• Arrive early but not too early (check your port arrival time)
• Go through security and check-in
• Get your cruise card (your key, wallet, and ID onboard)
• Explore the ship, grab lunch, and attend the mandatory safety drill
• Enjoy and Dont miss the sail away party!

🍽️ Dining & Activities

Most ships offer:

• Formal dining rooms with set or flexible times

• Buffets, poolside snacks, and specialty restaurants
• Broadway-style shows, comedy, live music, and more
• Pools, spas, casinos, fitness centers, kids’ clubs, and waterslides

Tip: Download your cruise line’s app — it shows daily activities, reservations, and your account balance.

🛑 Shore Excursions: Exploring the Ports

You can book:

Ship-sponsored excursions (more secure, especially for first-timers)

Independent tours through travel agent - Cruiseworld: we offer many escursions for different providers that are often cheaper and more flexible

DIY exploring (ideal in walkable ports)

Pro Tip: Always be back on board at least 1 hour before the “all aboard” time — the ship won’t wait!

💡 Final Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Bring a lanyard for your cruise card

Pack a small day bag for embarkation day (your luggage may arrive later)

Turn off data roaming unless you have a cruise Wi-Fi plan

Bring seasickness meds just in case (most people don’t need them, but it's good to have)

🎉 Ready to Set Sail?

Your first cruise is the start of what might become your favorite way to travel. With the right planning and a spirit of adventure, cruising offers something for everyone — and the memories you’ll make will last a lifetime.

🧭 Need Help Booking Your First Cruise?

As a trusted cruise travel agency, we’re here to match you with the perfect ship, itinerary, and pricing — no stress, just smooth sailing. Contact us today to get started with your dream cruise!

Not sure what to expect on your first cruise? This guide breaks down what’s included in your fare—and what’s not. For a more detail article, check out our Cruise tips for first-time cruisers Cruise tips for first-time cruisers here