Cruises can be incredibly convenient, with everything you need being on board. But it’s still easy for passengers to miss out on some of the best features of a ship
One of the major perks of a cruise holiday is the sheer convenience it offers, with all amenities and facilities within easy reach on the ship.
Yet, passengers often overlook some of the best features available, primarily because they fail to utilise them on the least busy day: embarkation day. With a bit of pre-trip research and savvy planning, holidaymakers can maximise their initial hours on board and sidestep the usual crowds.
Firstly, when packing, travellers should ensure that any essentials needed for the first few hours are stowed in their hand luggage. It’s standard procedure to drop off suitcases before boarding, and it can take several hours for these to be delivered to cabins.
Therefore, it’s crucial to pack any medications, toiletries, and entertainment items in your carry-on bag. The clever traveller might also pack swimwear and a towel, gaining an early advantage at the pool or hot tubs, reports the Express.
A key task for all passengers on their first day aboard a cruise ship is attending a muster drill, a safety training session outlining emergency procedures.
However, in light of Covid-19 restrictions on public gatherings, many cruise lines introduced options for passengers to complete the drill on their phones, often even before they set foot on the ship.
While it’s still necessary for everyone to check in with a staff member at their designated muster station, considering online safety training could save holidaymakers valuable time at the start of their trip.
After a long journey to the port and boarding the ship, it’s no wonder that many travellers make a beeline for the buffet during their initial hours on board, leading to quite a crowd.
To avoid the throng, guests might want to explore what other dining options are available on the first day. Many ships offer lunch in a more formal setting, providing a much calmer ambiance.
A leisurely walk around the ship or a glance at a deck plan can help passengers uncover hidden treasures well before others stumble upon them.
Lastly, it’s crucial for tourists to take the time to meet their stateroom attendant, the individual responsible for daily cabin cleaning.
Embarkation day is typically one of the busiest times on a cruise, with staff members tasked with deep-cleaning each cabin before new guests settle in. However, a friendly greeting and show of gratitude can go a long way in keeping spirits high.
It’s also advisable for tourists to communicate any specific needs they may have, such as additional towels or pillows, to their stateroom attendants on this first day, allowing ample time for preparation.
