By Tony Sheridan, Cruise Specialist at Atlas Holidays

So, you’ve booked your first cruise — amazing! The Mediterranean is one of the most stunning and culture-rich regions to explore by ship. But if you’re new to cruising, there are a few classic mistakes that can turn excitement into frustration.

As a Cruise Specialist, I’ve helped hundreds of first-time cruisers plan unforgettable trips. I want to share 5 common slip-ups and how to avoid them.

1. Overpacking Like It’s a World Tour

The Mistake: New cruisers often pack for every possible occasion. This includes 12 pairs of shoes. They even take a tuxedo for dinner, just in case.

Get It Right:
Cruising is more relaxed than you think. For a Med cruise, you’ll need lightweight layers, smart casual evening wear, and comfortable shoes for exploring historic ports. Leave space for souvenirs!

A stylish travel setup featuring straw hats, sunglasses, flip-flops, a camera, and a cruise itinerary.

2. Thinking “I’ll Just Figure It Out When I There”

The Mistake: Arriving in ports like Naples, Dubrovnik, or Santorini with no plan = time wasted and missed sights.

Get It Right:
A little planning goes a long way. Book your shore excursions in advance, or get expert advice on how to DIY safely. Trust me — you don’t want to waste your 6 hours in Rome trying to figure out the metro!

Two friends exploring a map, excited about their Mediterranean cruise adventures.

3.Booking the Wrong Cabin

The Mistake: “An inside cabin will be fine.” But, they soon realise the Med has the most scenic sail-ins in the world.

Get It Right:
If it fits your budget, go for a balcony. Watching the sunrise over Santorini or sailing into Venice from your own private space? Worth every penny.

Couple enjoying a romantic breakfast on a cruise ship balcony with stunning Mediterranean views.

4. Not Knowing What’s Actually Included

The Mistake: First-timers often assume everything is included — then get surprise bills for drinks, Wi-Fi, or tips.

Get It Right:
Read the fine print or better yet — ask your cruise advisor (that’s me!) to explain what’s covered and what’s not. I always walk clients through the inclusions, so there are no shocks at checkout.

“Need help understanding your cruise inclusions? Drop me a message!”

5. Missing Out on Pre- or Post-Cruise Opportunities

The Mistake: Flying in on the day of embarkation and missing out on exploring cities like Barcelona or Athens.

Get It Right:
Arrive a day early. It is less stressful. It also gives you time to enjoy your departure city. You can recover from any travel delays.

Enjoying a tranquil evening with tapas and a glass of wine against the backdrop of iconic architecture in Barcelona.

Final Thoughts from Tony Sheridan

Cruising for the first time should be a breeze — not a source of stress. With the right planning, you can avoid these common first-timer mistakes. A little guidance will guarantee you enjoy holiday stories you’ll be telling for years.

If you’re unsure where to start, I’m here to help. Whether it’s your first cruise or your fifth, I can help in planning every detail. I’ll help choose the right ship, the best cabin, and must-do ports.

Let’s make your first cruise unforgettable.

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Tony Sheridan
Cruise Specialist | Atlas Holidays
Feel free to contact me directly. You can reach out through the group or message for personalised advice.