Cruise ships can be an overwhelming experience, particularly for passengers who have just embarked on their holiday – so to battle this, here are three things you should do
Cruise ship holidays can be a dazzling affair with their multiple restaurants, swimming pools, theatres, and a plethora of attractions. But before holidaymakers can unwind on the pool deck, there are three crucial steps they need to take to ensure a smooth sailing experience.
In a recent blog post, Carnival Cruise Line shared some insider tips for those embarking on a cruise adventure. They stressed the importance of arriving early, advising: “Give yourself extra time to navigate an unfamiliar departure city and account for unexpected traffic jams so that you arrive promptly at your scheduled time.
“This will reduce the amount of time you spend in line and keep you from getting stressed. It will also ensure that you can check your bags and explore the ship at your leisure.”
To avoid any last-minute panic, it’s recommended that passengers aim to be at the cruise terminal ahead of their given check-in time on embarkation day. This helps mitigate the risk of delays due to traffic, breakdowns, or flight issues causing them to miss their boarding slot, reports the Express.
While cruise lines are known for their hospitality, they seldom wait in port for all passengers to board. Those who miss the ship usually have to travel to the next port.
Carnival Cruise Line advises guests to familiarise themselves with the ship’s layout as soon as they board, especially since their cabins may not be ready immediately. They said: “Many first-time cruisers don’t realise that they won’t be able to go directly to their staterooms upon boarding.”
To pass the time, they suggest enjoying a meal on the Lido Deck while waiting for your room and the ship’s departure. This ensures you’re not famished by dinner time.
Additionally, Carnival urges new passengers to complete the muster drill promptly to avoid any issues. While cruises are often seen as a relaxing escape, it’s crucial for all passengers to know what to do in case of an emergency before the ship leaves port.
Previously, all passengers had to visit their assigned muster station simultaneously. However, these days, training is typically conducted in each cabin via the TV or by visiting the muster station at a convenient time within the first few hours on board.
Carnival Cruise Line was established in 1972 and to date, is a prominent international cruise operator headquartered in Doral, Florida. As of January 2025, Carnival’s fleet comprises 27 ships, with plans to expand by incorporating two vessels from P&O Cruises Australia in March 2025. Additionally, five new ships are slated for delivery between 2027 and 2033.
The cruise line is known for offering a variety of itineraries, including voyages to the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, the Bahamas, Europe, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands.
