8 Things Seasoned Cruisers Say You Should Know Before Your First Voyage
By Sophie Romano, Holiday Concierge at Atlas Holidays
Taking your first cruise is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between embarkation day, endless dining options, and a schedule brimming with entertainment, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing something. As a Holiday Concierge, I often speak with seasoned cruisers who have “been there and done that.” On my recent time aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, I asked veteran guests to share their best advice for first-timers. Here’s what they told me — and what I now always pass along to my own guests.
1. Pack Light, Pack Smart
Many new cruisers bring too much. Sharon Taylor, a frequent cruiser, told me:
“People think it’s a fashion show and pack way too many clothes and shoes, but you just want to be comfortable.”.
“People think it’s a fashion show and pack way too many clothes and shoes, but you just want to be comfortable.”.
For a seven-night cruise, she packed just two swimsuits, a handful of tops, shorts, one formal outfit, and light shoes. Others recommend a few “extra” options for evenings, or active wear for excursions like zip-lining. My tip? Check the cruise line’s excursion requirements before you travel, and don’t forget small essentials like magnets for your cabin door — they make finding your stateroom much easier in those long, identical hallways.
2. Don’t Fly In on Departure Day
Delays happen — and ships don’t wait. Veteran cruiser Stephanie Franks told me about friends who had to drive 19 hours to Miami after their flight was cancelled. Her rule (and mine): always arrive at least one day early. Book a hotel near the port, many of which offer shuttle transfers. It buys you peace of mind and a more relaxed start to your holiday.
3. Book Specialty Dining & Excursions Early
Some of the most sought-after restaurants and excursions sell out quickly. Tekeshia Browne, who has over 100 cruises under her belt, recommends securing these before you board:
“Do everything you can before getting on board to save money — there are often discounts in advance.”
Booking early not only saves money, but guarantees you won’t miss out on a dream experience..
4. Play It Safe with Excursions (at First)
Exploring independently is rewarding, but first-timers may feel more comfortable booking excursions through the cruise line. Why? If a ship-run tour runs late, the ship will wait for you. Independent tours don’t carry that guarantee. As one cruiser told me:
“If you’re new to cruising, stick with the official excursions until you get your sea legs.”
5. Remember: Plenty Is Already Included
You don’t need to spend extra to enjoy yourself. Every cruise includes multiple dining venues, activities, and world-class entertainment. As Sharon Taylor put it:
“You don’t really need to spend another penny after you’ve paid for your cruise. There are plenty of brilliant free shows, food in the main dining room, and things to do at every port.
Think of extras as a treat, not a necessity.
6. Read the Daily Planner
On Royal Caribbean, it’s the Cruise Compass — delivered to your cabin nightly. It lists the next day’s entertainment, from live shows to trivia and poolside games. Long-time cruiser Vickie Carmody told me she skipped it once and regretted it:
“I missed the welcome-aboard show, the belly-flop contest, even karaoke. I didn’t know any of it was happening!”
Lesson learned: always scan the planner or app before bed to map out tomorrow.
7. Claim Your Pool Chair Early
Pool decks fill up quickly, especially on larger ships. Stephanie Franks warned me that by mid-morning, chairs are usually “reserved” with towels, despite official rules. The seasoned strategy? If you want a poolside spot, head out early.
8. Stay Flexible — and Savour the Experience
Every seasoned cruiser agrees: your first cruise can feel like a whirlwind. There’s so much to see, do, and taste. My advice? Don’t try to do everything. Build in time to rest, savor the sea views, and enjoy the rhythm of ship life.
Sophie’s Takeaway
Cruising isn’t just travel — it’s a lifestyle at sea. These eight tips, shared by guests who’ve sailed dozens of times, are exactly what I tell my own clients to keep their first cruise stress-free. Arrive early, pack smart, book what matters in advance, and above all, allow yourself to relax and let the ocean set the pace.
Warmly,
Sophie Romano
Holiday Concierge, Atlas Holidays
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