First-Time Cruise: Tips and Tricks from a First-Time Cruiser (and Reluctant Convert!)

I always thought cruises were too "people-y" for us. The idea of being trapped on a floating hotel with thousands of strangers? No, thank you! But after taking the plunge, I was pleasantly surprised (and mildly obsessed)!

We chose Royal Caribbean because it offers plenty of kid-friendly activities—sports courts, the FlowRider, water slides—without an overwhelming frat party vibe. Turns out, it was the perfect fit for us!

As a family of five, we needed two rooms, so to save cash for, you know, souvenirs and snacks, I booked two interior staterooms. I was initially worried we'd be packed in like sardines, but it was surprisingly perfect. We were on the 10th floor (just below the pool deck) and never heard a peep. Plus, the dark, windowless room was the best sleep-inducing cave ever—great for naps and pretending it’s not morning yet.

We loved both sea days and port days—CocoCay was the real MVP! Even though I researched compulsively before the trip, there were still a few surprises. Here are my top newbie tips so you can cruise like a seasoned pro:

1. Get Travel Insurance!

Going on a cruise can be an investment, and we learned firsthand how things (like weather) can be out of your control quickly! We were able to make our cruise despite winter storm warnings and canceled flights, but travel insurance will cover everything from delayed or canceled flights to injuries on board.

2. Get a Passport Instead of Lugging Around Birth Certificates

Check-in is easier with passports, and you don’t always need to carry them on port days. Just do yourself a favor and get one—it’s way less stress.

3. Buy Lanyards Ahead of Time (Trust Me)

Your SeaPass card is basically your lifeline—room key, wallet, and ID all in one. I forgot to buy lanyards ahead of time and ended up with overpriced ones from the ship store. Lesson learned: Amazon exists for a reason.

4. Don’t Keep Your SeaPass in Your Pocket (or You’ll Lose It Like I Did)

You’ll be pulling this card out a hundred times a day, so make sure it’s in a lanyard or secure spot. Otherwise, you might end up retracing your steps around the buffet like I did.

5. Do the Drink Package Math Before You Commit

Drink packages cost serious dough, so be honest with yourself. Are you a mimosa-with-breakfast, piña-colada-at-lunch, and wine-at-dinner kind of person? Or do you just want an occasional cocktail? I’m a lightweight, so the package would’ve been a waste for me.

6. Check Your Cruise Line’s Bring-Your-Own-Drinks Policy

Some lines let you bring soda, water, and even wine (yes, please!). Ours allowed one bottle of wine per stateroom, so you bet I carried mine on like it was a newborn baby. Perfect for a wind-down glass before bed.

7. Pre-Book Excursions and Rentals Like a Pro

Excursions and rentals are cheaper when booked ahead of time. I paid full price for a beach float rental because I forgot to pre-book. Rookie mistake!

8. Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode or Prepare for a Bill That’ll Make You Cry

Cruise ship roaming charges are highway robbery. The second you step on board, switch to airplane mode. Also, check with your carrier if you want service at port stops—learn from my Nassau-no-service struggles.

9. Don’t Skip the Fancy Dinner—Even with Kids

The main dining room is a hidden gem. Even with kids in tow, the experience is smoother than a regular restaurant. One night, Roman had a meltdown from too much sea day fun, but the waiters distracted him with magic tricks (lifesavers!). Plus, the kids got to try fancy foods—Sy even discovered he likes calamari. Who knew?

Cruising is a magical way to see multiple destinations while still sleeping in the same comfy bed every night. And even though the boat was packed with people, I never felt claustrophobic or too "peopled." If you’re hesitant about cruising, trust me—give it a shot. You might just become an obsessed convert like me!