Are You a First Time Cruiser?

10 Rookie Cruise Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Leaving Enough Time to Get to the Port.

• A common cruise rookie mistake is to have total faith that the flight will arrive on time. Flight delays are sometimes unavoidable, so it is preferable that your flight arrives at the port of embarkation at least 5 hours before boarding. If your flight is international it is recommended that you arrive the evening before. If your flight is delayed it will be your responsibility (and cost) to meet the ship at its next port of call.

2. Forgetting Important Documentation

• Many cruise rookies underestimate the importance of accurate and valid documentation. The simple fact is, if you do not have valid travel documentation, you will not be allowed to board the ship. It is not your Cruise Consultants’ responsibility to ensure you have obtained a valid passport or the correct visas. Allow plenty of time to get your documents in order (4-6 weeks).

3. Not Packing a Carry-on Bag for your First Day of the Cruise.

• Checked in luggage may take several hours to reach your room after embarkation.

• To avoid looking like a rookie, sitting by the pool fully dressed, pack a small carry-on bag for your day One essentials such as sunscreen, togs, medications and spare clothes.

4. Not Listening to the advice of Seasoned Cruisers & Cruise Experts.

• Long-time cruisers have gained invaluable knowledge from being passengers on countless cruises. Many first time cruisers don’t capitalise on this vault of insights and tips. Some invaluable pieces of information include packing clothes pegs that can be used to tightly shut the curtains on sunny mornings; extra clothes hangers; insulated mugs for hot drinks; extension cords or power boards; a highlighter pen to highlight items on the daily cruise newsletter or spare bags to put wet swim wear or sunscreen in.

5. Not Reading the Cruise Ship’s Daily Newsletter.

• A newsletter is delivered to each cabin daily, highlighting the ship activities for the next day; important ship updates; international news and details of the next port of call. This newsletter is the major source of information on what is going on.

6. Forgetting to Pack for Formal Night

• Many cruise ships have formal nights. Don’t be caught out by leaving your best frocks at home.

7. Forgetting Medical Prescriptions

• Medical facilities on board are limited (and expensive) so make sure you pack enough medication to last the whole of your trip (if required).

8. Sticking to the buffet for meal times & not discovering restaurants

• Don’t be taken in by the lure of the all-you-can eat buffet. Avoid the queues and head for the luxury of the formal restaurant to dine in style.

9. Leaving the booking of onshore excursions until you are onboard

• Enquire about onshore excursion options at the time of booking. They may not be available for booking straight away but your Cruise Consultant will be able to advise you when the best time to book them will be. If you leave it too late you may well miss out!

10. Packing on the eve of disembarkation

• Don’t end up having to cart your baggage off the ship yourself on disembarkation day. Ensure you leave your case outside your door the night before for collection. Don’t forget to put aside your items for the next day though. Otherwise you may be disembarking in your nightwear.

For more information

• Please visit www.cruisemegastore.com.au • Blog: www.cruisemegastore.com.au/news/• Call: 1300 657 948