Your Essential Guide to Cruise Travel
It’s been over a decade now since I first started helping people choose the right cruise for them in an ocean of options. I also love a good cruise myself — the rhythm of the sea, the mix of adventure and ease, and the way each day brings a new horizon.
Over the years I’ve learned that the best cruise isn’t just about the ship or the destination, but how it fits you. So, I’ve put together this guide to help you get some clarity around what makes for your best experience on the seven seas. Whether you’re planning your very first voyage or refining your next one, you’ll find practical tips for cruising here to help you make the most of it.
Planning and Excursions
Shore excursions are often what people remember most. It might be a vineyard tour in Italy, glacier hiking in Alaska, or wandering through a fishing village in Japan. The popular ones can sell out quickly, so book early if there’s something you really want to do.
At the same time, don’t plan every minute. Some of the best days are the quiet ones — when you stroll through a port town with no schedule, or stay onboard and enjoy the ship while everyone else is ashore.
Before booking, check what’s actually included in your fare. Some cruise lines include everything from Wi-Fi to gratuities, while others charge for almost every extra. Knowing this early prevents surprises later.
Technology and Staying Connected
Most cruise lines now use mobile apps to manage life onboard. You can make restaurant bookings, check activity schedules, or see daily updates all in one place. Download the app before you sail and have a quick look around.
Once you’re at sea, watch your phone settings. When a ship moves into international waters, your phone may switch to “maritime roaming,” which isn’t covered by most mobile plans. Turn off data roaming before departure and use Wi-Fi when you’re on land or in port.
Insurance and Health
Travel insurance is essential for a cruise. Medical care onboard is expensive, and if you miss the ship after a shore visit, costs can add up quickly. Make sure your policy specifically includes cruise cover.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, come prepared. Ginger tablets, wristbands, or medication all help. Cabins near the middle of the ship and on lower decks feel the least movement.
Packing and Embarkation Day
Cruises mix relaxed days with themed or formal evenings, so pack a little of everything. Some cruises have specific nights like “White Night” or gala events. It’s worth checking in advance so you’re not caught out.
On embarkation day, your room and luggage might not be ready straight away. Keep a small day bag with swimwear, sunscreen, medication, and anything else you might want in the first few hours.
Food is a big part of cruise life. There’s always more of it than you expect, and that’s part of the fun. Enjoy it, but pace yourself. Walk the deck, take the stairs, or join a class to balance things out.
Power and Devices
Cabins often have a mix of electrical sockets — American, British, and European. Bring a universal adapter and your own chargers. Power strips are usually not allowed, so plan for individual adapters instead.
Choosing the Right Cabin
The cabin you choose shapes the experience more than most people realise.
Interior rooms are affordable and great if you don’t plan to spend much time inside.
Obstructed view rooms let in light but may face a lifeboat or structural element.
Oceanview rooms offer a window or porthole and a sense of connection to the sea.
Balcony cabins give you a private outdoor space — perfect for scenic routes like Norway or Alaska.
Suites add space, extra perks, and privacy.
Inter-connecting cabins are ideal for families, offering flexibility and a second bathroom.
Accessible cabins are designed for mobility needs and should be booked early as they’re limited.
If you’re a light sleeper, avoid rooms near lifts or entertainment areas. For a smoother ride, midship and lower decks are the most stable.
Making the Most of It
A cruise is both a journey and a destination. Plan enough to feel organised, then let the rest unfold. Sit with your morning coffee as the coastline slides by, stay up late for a show, or enjoy a quiet day while the ship’s in port. The best memories often come from the moments in between.
What else?
Well from here I would like to welcome you to either reach out to me directly to discuss your holiday, or if you would like to explore more before that, then head over and visit the Spirit of Travel YouTube channel where we have a lot of content to share.
Thanks for reading!
Ron
