Going on a cruise for the first time can feel exciting and confusing at the same time. This guide walks you through the basics in plain language so you know what to expect, what to bring, and how to avoid common mistakes.
You can also explore more details in our other resources, like our Packing List, Packing for Scenic Cruises & Coastal Adventures, and our European trip planning guide, The Ultimate List and Guide to Packing Smart for Your 10‑Day European Adventure.
Your Cruise Card: Tiny Card, Big Job
On a cruise, your room key does much more than open your door.
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It is your cabin key, onboard ID, and usually your onboard “credit card” for purchases.
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You must have it on you every time you leave your cabin, and you cannot usually get on or off the ship without it being scanned.
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Many ships are cashless onboard; almost everything is charged to your cruise card and settled at the end of the trip.
Helpful tips:
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Use a lanyard or card holder so you do not lose it.
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Treat it like a credit card and ID combined—if it goes missing, go straight to Guest Services to have it deactivated and replaced.
On some ships, you must insert your card (or another card) into a slot by the door to keep your lights and air conditioning on. Pack an extra old card if you like to leave power running while you are out.
Getting On and Off the Ship
Embarkation (getting on) and disembarkation (getting off) have their own routines.
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On embarkation day, you go through check‑in and security, then receive or activate your cruise card and go onboard. Keep your passport and important documents in your carry‑on, not in checked luggage.
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In each port, you “scan off” when you leave the ship and “scan on” when you return, using your cruise card so the ship can track who is ashore.
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You must be back on board before the listed “all aboard” time. The ship normally will not wait for guests who went off on their own and return late.
Always pay attention to “ship time.” It may not match local time in port, and using local time instead of ship time is a common reason people miss the ship. Set your phone or a simple watch to ship time so you do not accidentally show up late.
Safety Drill and Basic Rules
Every cruise begins with a mandatory safety briefing called a muster drill.
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You will be assigned a muster station shown on your cruise card or cabin door.
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You must complete the drill (either in person or via video plus check‑in, depending on the line); it is required by law and not optional.
Basic safety rules that surprise first‑timers:
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No smoking in cabins or on balconies on most ships—only in designated smoking areas.
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Never sit or climb on railings, and supervise children around pools and open decks.
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Do not over‑indulge in alcohol and then wander decks or balconies; the ship moves more than you might expect.
Your Cabin: What to Expect
Cruise cabins are smaller than most hotel rooms but are thoughtfully designed.
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Expect good storage: shelves, closets, and space under the bed for suitcases.
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Outlets can be limited, so an approved non‑surge power strip is handy, as allowed by your cruise line.
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Your cabin steward tidies the room once or twice a day, refreshes towels, and can usually bring ice, extra pillows, or extra hangers if you ask.
You will also receive a daily schedule (paper or app) listing activities, show times, and dining hours. This becomes your “what to do today” guide.
Water, Drinks, and What Is Included
What is included in your fare can vary by cruise line and ship, so read the fine print before you sail.
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Usually included: tap water, basic coffee, tea, and sometimes juices in the buffet or main dining room.
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Usually not included: bottled water, soda, specialty coffees, alcoholic drinks, and some fresh‑squeezed juices—unless you purchase a drink package.
On certain ships or lines, you may need to:
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Purchase bottled water for your cabin.
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Pre‑order a water package that delivers several bottles to your room for the week.
Bring a reusable water bottle you can fill at drink stations where allowed, following hygiene rules from your cruise line. Always check your line’s guidance about refilling bottles at the buffet.
For more details on what to pack with your hydration in mind, see our Packing List and Packing for Scenic Cruises & Coastal Adventures.
Money, Gratuities, and Your Onboard Account
Life onboard is mostly cashless.
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At check‑in, your cruise card is linked to a credit card or a cash deposit.
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Every drink, photo, spa visit, souvenir, and specialty restaurant charge goes to your onboard account.
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Daily gratuities (tips for your cabin and dining team) are often automatically added per person per day, though policies vary by cruise line and region.
To avoid surprises:
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Check your onboard account through the cabin TV, kiosks, or the cruise line’s app during the sailing.
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Bring some small cash for tipping porters, local guides, and drivers on shore.
Passports, Money Belts, and Important Documents
Your passport is one of the most important items you travel with.
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Many travelers use a money belt or hidden pouch in port to keep passports, credit cards, and cash secure under clothing.
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Opinions differ on whether to carry the passport in port or leave it in the cabin safe with copies on you; choose the approach that makes you feel safest and always know where it is.
Smart extra steps:
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Take photos or scans of your passport, credit cards, and travel insurance and store them safely in encrypted or cloud storage.
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Keep essential medication and a list of prescriptions in your carry‑on.
For broader trip preparation, you can use our European‑focused checklist, The Ultimate List and Guide to Packing Smart for Your 10‑Day European Adventure.
Using Your Phone: Roaming, Wi‑Fi, and Cruise Plans
Phone charges can be a nasty surprise if you do not plan ahead.
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Before you sail, call your phone provider and ask about:
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An international plan for use on land in other countries.
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A specific “cruise ship” or maritime roaming option, which is billed differently and can be more expensive than standard roaming.
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If you do not have a cruise or maritime plan, keep your phone in airplane mode while at sea. Turning mobile data on at sea can create very high charges.
Your choices at sea:
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Buy a Wi‑Fi package from the cruise line and use messaging, email, and apps over Wi‑Fi.
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Use the cruise line app, which often works onboard for basic functions even without a full Wi‑Fi package.
On land, your regular international plan may apply, so you can turn off airplane mode once you are away from the ship and on a local network, depending on your carrier.
Shore Excursions: Ship Tours vs. DIY
Exploring ports is one of the best parts of a cruise, and first‑timers often worry about what to book.
Ship‑sponsored excursions:
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Can usually be booked in advance through your online account or app and often sell out on popular itineraries.
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Are managed by the cruise line, so if the tour runs late, the ship will normally wait for that tour group or the line will help arrange to get them to the next port.
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Cost more but are low‑stress, especially for your first cruise.
DIY (do‑it‑yourself) excursions:
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You can explore on your own, hire private guides, or book directly with local tour companies.
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This can save money and personalize your day, but you are fully responsible for watching the time and getting back before “all aboard.”
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If you are late, the ship may leave without you, and you must work with the local port agent and your travel insurance to catch up at your own expense.
A good approach for first‑timers:
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Book ship tours in ports that are far from major cities or require long travel times.
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Do DIY exploring in ports where attractions are close to the dock.
Local Currency, Cards, and Spending in Port
While credit cards are widely accepted in many destinations, having some local cash is still important.
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In Europe, bring some euros for small purchases, public restrooms, cafés, and tips.
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In other regions, bring or withdraw the local currency from ATMs at reputable banks.
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Cruise port shops may accept U.S. dollars, but you will usually get better value and more options with local money.
For larger purchases:
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Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees if possible.
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When paying by card, choose to be charged in local currency (not “converted” to your home currency on the card machine) for a better exchange rate.
Packing Basics for First-Time Cruisers
You do not need as much as you might think, but a few key items make a big difference.
Carry‑on bag:
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Passport and documents.
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Medications and a list of prescriptions.
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A change of clothes, swimsuit, and any must‑have toiletries.
Clothes and extras:
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Comfortable walking shoes and casual outfits for daytime.
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A couple of nicer outfits for evening, depending on the dress code.
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Light sweater or jacket (ships can be cool inside, even in warm weather).
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Seasickness remedies (bands, tablets, or patches, just in case).
Cabin helpers:
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Non‑surge power strip (if allowed).
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Magnetic hooks if your cabin walls are metal, for hats, jackets, and bags.
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A reusable water bottle and a small day bag for shore days.
For a deeper dive into what to bring, visit our Packing List, Packing for Scenic Cruises & Coastal Adventures, and our Europe‑focused guide, The Ultimate List and Guide to Packing Smart for Your 10‑Day European Adventure.
Food, Dining, and Dress Codes
Most new cruisers are surprised by how much food and how many options there are.
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Included options usually include the buffet, main dining room, and casual venues like pizza or grill spots.
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Specialty restaurants cost extra but offer a more upscale or themed experience.
Dining styles:
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Traditional dining: set time and same table each night.
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“Anytime” or “Your Time” dining: flexible arrival within a window, with possible short waits.
Dress codes are usually relaxed but may include:
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Casual or “smart casual” most nights.
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One or more “elegant” or “formal” evenings where many guests dress up more.
Your cruise line’s website or app will give you guidelines for your specific sailing.
Daily Life Onboard: How to Make the Most of It
There is far more to do than you can fit into a single cruise.
Common onboard options:
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Theater shows and live music.
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Trivia, games, classes, and demonstrations.
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Pools, hot tubs, fitness center, spa, and sometimes water slides or ropes courses.
How to keep it relaxing:
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Read the daily schedule (or app) and pick just a few “must do” things each day.
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Leave some open time to simply enjoy the pool, your balcony, or a quiet lounge.
Mobility Issues
We also help travelers with mobility challenges; see our Norwegian mobility guide for step-by-step tips.
