20 Cruise Embarkation Day Do's & Don'ts Every Cruiser MUST Know

Рет қаралды 41,637

15 күн бұрын

Embarkation is the most exciting day of a cruise. However, there are some crucial do's & don'ts to ensure that you do things right & have a stress-free start to your cruise vacation.
In this video I share the top 20 cruise embarkation day tips, along with things you'll want to avoid. Whether this is your first cruise or you're an avid cruise traveler, these travel tips will help as you plan your cruise.
Perfect for all cruise passengers cruising with major cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Celebrity Cruises & more.
These cruise tips will help you to have an amazing first day of your cruise, from boarding to sailaway!
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ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
Some B-roll used in this video courtesy of RCCL
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Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic

Пікірлер: 159

@Scarlett.M.C. 7 күн бұрын

Just got back from my 2nd cruise. I was in line talking to a woman on her 1st cruise and she was TOTALLY unprepared. I explained to her how I got prepared by watching your videos and I felt like such an EXPERT in comparison!!!! She literally knew none of what you've prepared people for. THANK YOU Ilana!!!! And I believe I got you a new subscriber talking to the new cruiser lady in line lol... Your videos are MUST WATCH for all cruisers!

@erinf4712 10 күн бұрын

As a nurse who has been cruising for over 40 years, as soon as I get to my cabin, I am wiping everything down- especially those high contact surfaces. They do clean the cabins between passengers but remember they only have a few hours to turn the whole ship over between debarkation and embarkation.

@SusanNGann 4 күн бұрын

Agreed from a fellow nurse!

@frankdonagher7279 13 күн бұрын

My wife loves to watch your videos, she has learned alot from you

@draggonsgate 13 күн бұрын

DO: Check in with the Maitre d in the MDR to see what your table assignment is if you have a set dining time. If you're not thrilled with it, you can ask for a change. DO: Take the time after your cabin is ready and before sail away to unpack and organize. This includes setting the temp of your cabin to where you like it! DO: Go with the flow. You're on vacation. Relax, don't stress and if something isn't right, it can be fixed!

@mwint12 13 күн бұрын

There is no MDR on Virgin. You have 5 restaurants to choose from, the galley, which is great and Pizza plus about a half dozen places to eat that I didn't mention.

@draggonsgate 13 күн бұрын

@@mwint12 I've never sailed with Virgin... no MDR, that's actually kinda cool!

@Hawkeye2001 13 күн бұрын

My routine on arrival: Drop my carryon bags in my stateroom, say hello to my cabin steward, watch the safety video and go to my muster station. After that I'm free to enjoy / find food / maybe an adult beverage.

@jbob1548 12 күн бұрын

I would love to do that, but it’s my experience cabins are ready until afternoon

@jodeegu 10 күн бұрын

@@jbob1548 The cabins aren’t ready until later, but on every cruise I have ever been on, I could go to my cabin to drop off my carry-on bags. I only stay long enough to drop my bags, lock any valuables in the safe, watch the safety video, say hello to my cabin steward, and leave until they announce cabins are ready. It’s not the time to unpack what you have or stay for a nap because they’re still getting things ready, but I have never had a problem with a quick trip to drop my bags.

@GlennBrockett 13 күн бұрын

I sail NCL. Fly in the night before, stay at a hotel, enjoy comp breakfast before leaving. Arrive at the start of my arrival window, I usually set that to be around 10:30 to noon. First stop, check in at the muster station, get it over with. We stopped going to the buffet, but will go to the Local (pub like restaurant, complementary.) and have a leisurely lunch. When rooms are announced, head up and drop off bags and meet the steward. Give them a small gift. (usually chocolates) Unpack the carry-on bag and stow it away while the safety video plays. (you must watch it before you can watch anything else, even if you watched it 3 times in the lead up to the trip.) RELAX! You are in vacation mode.

@Mekakinny 13 күн бұрын

We embark tomorrow!! So excited!!🎉🎉🎉🎉

@jennifermurray4387 13 күн бұрын

Excited for you!! Have a wonderful trip ❤

@anitaclue9868 13 күн бұрын

Have an awesome trip! 🛳️🏝️🌊☀️🌅

@scorpiolady1 13 күн бұрын

Happy cruising! It's always so exciting 😊🎉❤

@suave-rider 13 күн бұрын

remember not to pack dynamite 😆

@annettemartinez4063 12 күн бұрын

Bon voyage!!

@alyssasimon3940 13 күн бұрын

Get picture when you first get on ship, sail away, get a drink!

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

You’re so right!!

@eminiarvii 12 күн бұрын

You are so right Illana embarkation day is the best. All of my 80 embarkations have been the happiest times. I was cleaning out my garage today and found my Costa booklet dated 1975 and all my cruises through that line. Some i had not remembered until i looked at the names and days listed…..it was so looonnnggg ago and they no longer exist but it did bring back memories. So much has changed, but nothing out does being on the ocean, no matter what ship. Thx for another good video 🚢🙂

@belnoel3547 13 күн бұрын

One of my fav cruise channels ❤

@deliacall4826 8 күн бұрын

Make sure all the features in your cabin function. Test the outlets, check the veranda door, test the A/C, water, refrigerator, etc. Repairs may take a while and delays may affect the enjoyment of your room.

@haroldawarrenjr3803 13 күн бұрын

I remember my very first cruise in 2017..I had the drink package and on embarkation I was really exited and i had a quite a few long Island ice teas.Day 2 was coco cay I really reuned my beach day because I was hung over and i slept on the beach all day.if you have a port day on day 2...my suggestion is to take it easy on day 1.

@tonyaboujaoude8655 11 күн бұрын

Who drinks Long Island Iced Teas?! It's a recipe for a blackout!

@Iam_Celene 13 күн бұрын

I just got off of my week long cruise to Bermuda out of Boston. It was amazing!!!! And I put my phone on airplane mode the whole time. I need to remember though to buy the internet package and to tell my bank I am traveling out of the country and to get money from my banks atm and not at an atm that charges outrageous service fees

@AlexHernandez-yb9rx 13 күн бұрын

Don’t forget to check your tab throughout the cruise! My first cruise, my ex and I had a 7 day cruise, and had bought drinks throughout the day (we didn’t drink so much but when in Rome…we drank in the morning throughout). And we had other bills that added up way beyond what we kept track of. At least now, you can get your excursions and most things paid for before the cruise. And another tip, pay attention to ship time vs island/land time. Don’t be late to coming back to the ship from being at a port of call. Ship time can often be different from island time, so pay attention to that. And have fun 🤩

@lifewithgrandmabev 13 күн бұрын

Thanks for Sharing. Such good suggestions. My suggestion for cruisers, don’t sweat the small stuff. Go with the flow.

@soups_life 11 күн бұрын

omg this is so funny, because im going on a cruise with my mom and (for the first time) with my grandma, and she always says dont sweat the small stuff!! its like her slogan!!

@bethdavis6863 13 күн бұрын

To avoid buying the tag holders, simply fold as instructed, “laminate” both sides with packing tape, staple on suitcase, and cover staples with another strip of packing tape. It may be harder to remove for debarkation, but it won’t fall off or be affected by rain!

@dorisromanisko2219 13 күн бұрын

While this works, I'm glad I bought the tag holders after watching Ilana's tips five years ago. I made sure I bought the largest one available so that all future tags would fit into holders. They have been on nine cruises, five different cruise lines.

@noeinroad7294 12 күн бұрын

@@dorisromanisko2219 I use them instead of conventional luggage tags now as well. Or when I'm taking ferries between islands.

@kathrynr5026 13 күн бұрын

We took your previous advice about the luggage tags and ordered your recommended tags. The braided metal cables are the best, no worries with the plastic ones from the travel agency. We always follow your advice with drinks 🍷🥃 and relaxing before sail away!

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

Glad to hear! I agree it makes things so much easier

@janicemays344 11 күн бұрын

On all checked in luggage-I attach and staple a tag with tape over staples -and I attach a luggage tag with a plastic sleeve-I have never had a paper tag come off-I had 1 plastic tag braid wire break off-always put 2 tags on

@shadowbear4113 12 күн бұрын

This is so timely! We are embarking today. I’ve seen so many do’s and don’ts videos, but yours are always so informative and upbeat. I even caught my wife watching this video yesterday!

@barbaralazier8352 13 күн бұрын

We are leaving on Celebrity from Southampton to Iceland next Thursday. Those luggage tags have saved me more than once. Don’t forget to befriend your room Steward. He/she will be your greatest advocate if you treat him/her as you would like to be treated

@janrob529 12 күн бұрын

Have a great time. We’re on the same cruise. I also use the luggage tags, well worth it.🚢🙂

@M_Ladd 11 күн бұрын

Try to visit the Blue Lagoon if it is open or one of the other hot springs. Fantastic!

@jimwisnieski6355 13 күн бұрын

I explore the ship from top to bottom after dropping off my carry on.

@selenajosephina 13 күн бұрын

Me too! I love that part

@melodeekistner2936 12 күн бұрын

We really enjoy having lunch in the MDR on embarkation day. You can get away from the mass of people at the buffet and it feels so calm and nice after the hustle bustle of arrival at the terminal and getting on the ship (which is much easier these days but still a lot). Then to our rooms when we can to drop off our carry-on luggage and then up top for Sail Away! And yes, it is always a very exciting day!

@scorpiolady1 13 күн бұрын

Those clear luggage tags are something I never thought about before and always worried about the paper tag coming off, so that idea is great 😃👍

@davidhurwitz2291 9 күн бұрын

Bought the clear tag holders and used them on our Celebrity cruise.

@randomuser1549 8 күн бұрын

The spas often have a sailaway special. One of my most memorable sailaways was spent getting a wonderful massage. It was a great way to start my vacation!

@kathleenbuhl1599 12 күн бұрын

Embarkation day is probably the busiest day of the cruise for your cabin steward. Between prepping the cabin for you ( i. e. cleaning up after the prior occupants) and delivering luggage, he may be exceptionally busy so keep your introductions brief and requests simple. Maybe write them down for him even. He'd probably really appreciate it as well as any cash tip you might decide to provide in advance. We didn't as for much but we got wonderful greetings throughout our voyage.

@timothypacheco6864 6 күн бұрын

YOU are correct about over doing it on the first day of being on the ship. My wife and I where on a Princess cruise a couple of weeks ago and there was a lady in the casino that was raising such a ruckess and I found out later that she was so drunk she basically had to be helped to her cabin. YOU have to no when enough is enough and tomorrow is another day.

@boatlover1875 11 күн бұрын

Great advice as usual. The luggage tags are a must and cheap. We've been getting good deals on MSC lately and we are about 5 hours from Port Canaveral. We're having no problem getting on the ship before our arrival time, one of the employees told me, "if you're in line, you're on time." They have also started letting you drop your carry on luggage in your room, your key will be on the door, when you get on the ship. They do encourage you to be quick so the Attendants can finish cleaning your room. A few weeks ago we were on the ship before 11am. On NCL, go make your free at sea dinner reservations first thing, last two times they had several people in the Chinese venue, not sure if it is the same on all their ships. We are Platinum and also get two additional nights. They used to restrict what you could pick but she would have let me go to the steak house all three times on my last cruise. If you're going out of Port Canaveral, check the rocket launch schedule. We saw a launch during sail away on our last cruise.

@SamWhite-ru6oq 13 күн бұрын

Great tips! Another thing I do is check everything is working in the cabin.

@williamoday573 13 күн бұрын

We actually hot laminate our luggage tags and then affix them to our bags with rubber straps. We've seen cruises out of South Florida where a popup storm soaks luggage in the carts before they are transported to the ship, and some of those paper tags looked pretty sad! And although we know that the buffet is always crazy on embarkation day we always go there for lunch, where my wife has a nice salad and has me take her picture to send off to family at home showing that our cruise has kicked off.

@FLPeach00 13 күн бұрын

What personal info of you put on your luggage tag if you fly? I haven’t flown in over 15yrs. Name, cell, email, hotel?

@williamoday573 13 күн бұрын

@carolrequet5465 I usually include name, address, telephone number, and email address, but I imagine you could include just a contact telephone number or email address so you can be reached if your luggage takes a different trip than you do!

@FLPeach00 13 күн бұрын

@@williamoday573 I’ll be in a hotel for 2 days prior to my cruise so maybe I’ll include that as well. Thank you! 😊

@beatlejeff65 11 күн бұрын

Celebrity is an exception to the "don't expect to go straight to your cabin" rule. On Celebrity you can go straight to your cabin, collect your key card, and drop off your carry-ons. If the room isn't quite ready to occupy yet then you can go explore the ship until it is.

@Sailing_with_Sabina 11 күн бұрын

Isn't it great!

@LJLMETAL 12 күн бұрын

I've only been on one Cruise, but I have one good tip. Hurry up, and wait. It is better to hurry up, and then wait while on the ship than it is to wait to get on the ship, and hurry up.

@DavidThomas-vj3eu 13 күн бұрын

I basically drop off carry bags and look for food. Love your videos. Your correct in all of them.

@loveboatcruising 13 күн бұрын

I fly in the day of but stay a day after. Princess EZ air guarantees your trip and airport transfer takes luggage from airport straight to cabin. Even if you don’t have luggage tags, they will tag them properly. Thank you, Angie #loveboatcruising

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

Nice!

@dorisromanisko2219 13 күн бұрын

When you say guarantees, what happens if your flight IS delayed past sail away?

@loveboatcruising 13 күн бұрын

@@dorisromanisko2219Princess will refund or get you to ship at next port.

@DB-zp9un 13 күн бұрын

LOL the lunch thing!! We did fail that our first cruise! We went to the vibe beach club, started getting those drinks flowing, and then realized I hadnt eating since early morning.. And the dont over do it on embarkation lol... Again, same thing.. We got on board about noon, was feeling pretty good and looked at my watch and it wasn't even 3pm yet hahaha... Yea, that along with not eating was fun! Didnt have any bad effects, but I did both of those!!

@michaelvoisey8458 13 күн бұрын

Travel down to the port the day or 2 days before the cruise

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

Yes 🙌🙌

@josereyes3108 11 күн бұрын

Sailing from Vancouver to Alaska in September 2024! So excited! I love watching your videos, I’ve learned so much from you, Ilana. Thanks for all the helpful advice ✌🏾🙏🏾

@FraserAtSea 12 күн бұрын

Great recommendation to do a ship tour on Day 1 - I often find people spend the first afternoon relaxing poolside, so it's a great time to check out what's onboard, which can allow you to 'get ahead' of your fellow passengers!

@jodeegu 11 күн бұрын

DO stop at the handwashing/hand sanitizer station upon entering AND exiting the buffet, as well after using the stairs or anywhere that you touch surfaces that are frequently touched by others. Best way to avoid getting or spreading norovirus! DON’t bring expensive or heirloom jewelry. Instead, invest in some fabulous costume jewelry that you love. You’ll avoid the heartbreak of losing your favorite diamond necklace or your grandmothers ring. I even bought a couple of nice, fake, wedding band sets that I have gotten many compliments on. DO put your luggage tags into the plastic holders and, if you’re flying, attach it to the inside strap so it’s on top of your clothes and easy to find. At your hotel, remove your airline tags and move your cruise tags to the outside. Makes it super simple to switch your luggage from airline mode to cruise mode. DO make sure to have a tag on your luggage with your name/address in case your tags are somehow torn off and a sheet of paper inside with your personal contact info and cruise cabin number in case both cruise and name tags get damaged. Works for your flight, too.

@martijory3634 13 күн бұрын

Should I check for bed bugs before putting my suitcase down???

@AlienFrequency 13 күн бұрын

'almost' every cruise I've been on, it's nearly sail away time, and the captain or cruise director is calling people by name over the ship's intercom, because they still haven't reported to their muster station. It didn't happen on our cruise last month, but still, don't be that guy/girl who holds the ship up from sailing away. I'll also add DON'T drop your bags off at your cabin and then proceed to take a nap. The room steward may not even have the room ready yet. Now, he can't do his job that he's required to do, because you're in there sleeping!

@patriciaritchie1783 13 күн бұрын

My husband and I are safety nerds and plan to watch the safety video and go to the muster station first thing. Thanks for your comment!

@AlienFrequency 13 күн бұрын

@@patriciaritchie1783 Yeah, it's good to get the muster drill/safety briefing out of the way ASAP, so you can get to the fun stuff. When I first started cruising, 2017, the muster drill was kinda a pain, but it's pretty simple and painless the last few years. (on most ships)

@tinybrownin 13 күн бұрын

I found out in February if you have FTTF with Carnival 😊 you can go to your room as soon as you board. There was maybe 5 rooms ready in my hall. The rest of the rooms didn’t even have the key cards there yet.

@DirectionlessStudent 11 күн бұрын

Totally agree on "fly in the day before" if possible. Much less stress if you get a delay. Not a "must" but a tip based on experience...Afternoon of Embarkation Day is a great time to get a massage at the spa. (A) The pre-book price is usually cheaper than it is on any other day because few people think this way and (B) you can start your cruise feeling relaxed and refreshed. Reserve your time around 2 or 3 -- after you have access to your cabin, but before the real fun starts.

@donbarron5349 13 күн бұрын

YES, tip the porters.

@Krysdavar 12 күн бұрын

Why? This behaviour needs to stop. They get paid either way to do their job. Why are you subsidizing their pay?

@Pduwel88 8 күн бұрын

Thank you for slowing down

@victoriagough5769 13 күн бұрын

Great tips!

@laurenschenck5355 13 күн бұрын

I love exploring the cruise line and I also go eat at the restaurants on embarkation day to avoid the crowds 🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️

@DsnyLuv 13 күн бұрын

This was awesome ❤

@scoutmaster314 12 күн бұрын

We always try to reserve the earliest check-in time possible and makes sure to enjoy lunch early while onboard. There is noting like a late-afternoon buffet to spoil your appetite for dinner!

@resqbarbie13 13 күн бұрын

Great video!🎉

@mtellez4381 12 күн бұрын

I've been loving your videos and have learned a lot. I have my cruise pile going in our guest room with all the Ilana approved items 😂. Thanks for your videos ❤.

@scoutmaster314 12 күн бұрын

It helps me to take 10-15 minutes to unpack and get all my stuuf organized after my bags arrive. It's a good time to request extra hangers and it keeps you from living out of a bag all week.

@DFisk75 4 күн бұрын

I just started watching a couple of your videos cuz we've been thinking about a cruise. Going on cruises seems to be so complicated. Nothing is just straightforward and they rely too much on technology. I'm going on a cruise to get away from technology. Not having to have it be my daily itinerary.

@CarboneCat 13 күн бұрын

One thing I do on embarkation day is to book my fitness classes. They can get full early and, for both times I’ve done this, there’s a promotion like book three classes for the price of two. And also, our party secures a wine package for the cruise.

@juliewendt724 13 күн бұрын

Could you please tell me what cruise line does wine only packages? I have a family member who only drinks wine.

@CarboneCat 13 күн бұрын

@@juliewendt724 Celebrity and Holland are the cruise lines I went. I can’t vouch for any other although I wouldn’t be surprised that Princess and Virgin might offer something similar.

@juliewendt724 13 күн бұрын

Thanks 😊!

@user-wj5nk8zb6b 12 күн бұрын

Thank you as always Llana 🇬🇧

@crazy4dariver 12 күн бұрын

I know better than to overindulge at any point. I always get the booze package and get my money's worth before cruise end. 😂 Friend went to Mexico with his wife and I didn't see him the entire second day. He got plastered to the point security talked to him and escorted him to his cabin. I hung out with his wife on day two while he recovered. Day at sea anyway but he learned his lesson. Because it's "free" does not mean to do it all at once

@timmangum1729 12 күн бұрын

Yes always leave plenty of time Never had issues by doing this. We always get lunch first the scout out the ship and the find our room

@lgcuzscienceyo2304 12 күн бұрын

I have only cruised once before, and I had little kids then. Going on our next cruise soon, with adult kids, and your videos are TRULY helpful and informative! Thank you, and keep up the excellent work!

@FrancesErickson 12 күн бұрын

On our first day, we will definitely introduce ourselves to our cabin attendant and I almost always ask for a foam mattress cover. They just make it so much nicer and more comfortable for us anyway. Great tips as always..

@DavidGlover-xp5to 13 күн бұрын

The last couple cruises we've noticed our luggage has not been left at our cabin door, We've had to search the hallway for luggage. So... Don't expect your luggage to be in your cabin or right at your cabin door.

@crazy4dariver 12 күн бұрын

One of my many Caribbean cruises leaves from Puerto Rico. My flight there was roughly 10hrs before ship departure. All good. Same airline out of the same airport (Atlanta into Puerto Rico) approx 30 passengers missed the cruise because of a weather delay in Atlanta. The ship will not wait...period. Go early and play it safe.

@stevengolden9009 13 күн бұрын

Here is a DONT: DONT arrive at the cruise terminal HOURS BEFORE your scheduled time. Last month we cruised out of New Orleans, had an 11:30am boarding time, got there 5 minutes before 11:30, and there was a massive amount of people ahead of us. While in line, people were holding their boarding passes with 1pm, 2pm, etc., boarding times and they were being let in. When we were about to board the gangaway, about 5 ladies were ahead of us and none of them had their boarding passes stamped with a star on them per proper procedure and the attendant would not let them on and they threw the biggest hissy fit! With all of this happening, our embarkation took over 2 hours and our checked luggage did not arrive to our stateroom until nearly 5pm. 😑

@Sailing_with_Sabina 11 күн бұрын

This needs to be included in the video. So tired of hearing ppl post in FB pgs, my check in time is XXX, but I want to arrive earlier. Then these same ppl complain when there are lines! WHy did the line give you a check-in time if you are going to ignore it. Cruise lines either need to do away with check-in times or enforce them.

@joanneh4803 13 күн бұрын

This video was perfect timing! Down to single digits today - embarkation in 9 days!! 🚢❤️

@colleenpowers4972 13 күн бұрын

Definitely have over-done-it on embarkation day. So easy to get into vacation mode quickly 😂

@annieray7633 13 күн бұрын

Thank you!! We’re so excited for our honeymoon cruise in January 2025!!!

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

So exciting!! What ship will you be sailing on?

@annieray7633 13 күн бұрын

@@LifeWellCruised we are going on the Carnival Horizon! Have you ever been on that ship? It was budget friendly and seemed perfect for first cruisers!

@AD_2314 10 күн бұрын

19 days 🚢! Can’t wait 🎉

@rk4570 13 күн бұрын

Flying in at 6am same day LA to Miami Aug 12 hopefully it works out for me

@susannnicodemus9235 13 күн бұрын

Oh that is cutting it close if there is a delay for some reason

@cathycooper1426 13 күн бұрын

And a 3 hour time difference.

@rk4570 13 күн бұрын

@@cathycooper1426 6am east coast time

@rk4570 13 күн бұрын

@@susannnicodemus9235 I’ll have 10 hours from when I land till the ship sails hopefully all goes well

@susannnicodemus9235 10 күн бұрын

Not worth the risk, always fly in at least the day before, too many things could go wrong

@laurenschenck5355 13 күн бұрын

BEST ADVICE llana and always so helpful and and love ur videos so much and content and so much and always a joy and fun 🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞🌞

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

Thanks for watching:)

@laurenschenck5355 13 күн бұрын

@@LifeWellCruised 🥰🥰🥰

@norinechang2564 12 күн бұрын

Arrive early or arrive late. The San Francisco staff said 2pm is way calmer than 1pm. I'll have to try that next time, because the number of cranky passengers in lines at 1pm was remarkable.

@patriciaritchie1783 13 күн бұрын

Can’t we use the same strategy for carry on and checked luggage on the ship as we do for the airline? I’ve got a wheeled carry on with attachable Foldie. I think wheeling the combination will be easier than hauling the Foldie by itself. We will have one larger checked suitcase.

@norinechang2564 12 күн бұрын

Lunch on embarkation day can be tricky if it's a really hot and humid day. Somehow it's easier to have cold drinks than to eat solid food.

@izengolf1 12 күн бұрын

First time ocean cruiser this fall. NCL gave me the instruction to ask to speak to the Special Diets Coordinator at check in which I thought was amazing. Here's hoping they are as good as Uniworld at gluten free 🤞

@betruetoyourself8738 6 күн бұрын

Are there luggage tags that are versatile to use for any cruise line? Future first-time cruiser but want to prepare in advance for future adventures.

@douglasmcbryan3705 13 күн бұрын

I have an older friend that is tech challenged. No cell phone, no idea about the internet. She used to cruise all the time. Would she be able to now? Nancy

@arosenweig 12 күн бұрын

Arrive to the cruise terminal early but not too early. I suggest not arriving at the cruise terminal before 11 am.

@crazy4dariver 12 күн бұрын

One of my personal goofs was not booking shore excursions and specialty restaurants in advance. The website was having issues so I waited until I boarded and still had to wait 2hrs to get in my room. Pool bartender told me I could do it on my phone and even let me plug into a socket so I could charge (apparently they frown on allowing passengers to charge devices at certain places) It all worked out fine BUT by the time I got to my room all restaurants and line recommend excursions were booked solid. Waiting room only if a cancellation happened.

@brileygabriel4949 12 күн бұрын

On Carnival at least, you wont be able to purchase drinks or anything else with your cruise card unless and until you go through the muster process, as my wife found out on a cruise out of Galveston that we took in February. lol Also, on Celebrity, you have access to your room IMMEDIATELY upon boarding, specifically for the purpose of dropping your luggage off if you chose not to avail yourself of their luggage handling services. You do have to leave again after that for a bit, to allow them to complete the reset of your cabin though..

@Jameschewingfoil 13 күн бұрын

Anybody use a Backpack and not a case?A 38 liter will fit in an overhead bin and you know where it is every minute.

@Snoopy-qe7kt 13 күн бұрын

I use a backpack as my personal item when flying in. That way I always have passport, meds, shorts, printed out cruise documents, wallet on me. That way carry on with things like shoes, hairdryer can go to the cabin with my luggage.

@Jameschewingfoil 13 күн бұрын

@@Snoopy-qe7kt You’re not using a BACKPACK just a tote bag.

@richcamozzi7630 13 күн бұрын

we went on a cruise in March. I got sick the last 2 days. Friends of ours went on other cruises and got sick. What percentage are there cruises that people get sick from being around different people? Can people get sick from the air that is pumped into the cabins? Thank you.

@billhoward3398 12 күн бұрын

Need a luggage tag holder for Azamara cruise line. Do you have a recommendation?

@sharonmcmickens9853 13 күн бұрын

Your hair looks great.

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

Thank you 😊

@lanettecoyer6062 12 күн бұрын

As soon as I get out on the ship I go straight to my mustard station and get that done

@christyg1236 12 күн бұрын

Can I use the cruise line App on royal Caribbean without having bought their wifi package?

@Iam_Celene 11 күн бұрын

Would an 8 day southern Caribbean cruise on carnival horizon be worth it

@FLPeach00 13 күн бұрын

Hi Ilana. Regarding labeling your bags…..when you fly, what info do you put on your luggage tags? Name/cell, email, hotel? I’ll be at the hotel for 2 days prior to the cruise. It may be a silly question but I’m kind of stressing over it. TIA 😊

@lynnkongkham7655 13 күн бұрын

Don't put your luggage tags for the ship on the suitcases until you are going to board. They interfere with the scanners used at the airports. I always put my hotel information and a copy of the cruise itinerary inside my suitcase in case it goes astray. That way, they will be able to see where I am at various times so my luggage can catch up with me.

@FLPeach00 13 күн бұрын

@@lynnkongkham7655 Hotel/itinerary info inside the luggage is a wonderful idea, thank you so much! 😊

@angelacastagna3824 13 күн бұрын

For tipping the porters …. We are USA flying to Vancouver for our HAL cruise to Alaska. Do we tip them in USD or Canada currency? Thank you in advance!

@lynnkongkham7655 13 күн бұрын

Canadian$ in Canada.

@angelacastagna3824 13 күн бұрын

@@lynnkongkham7655 Thank you very much. I thought that might be the answer but was not certain.

@williambrethauer9104 13 күн бұрын

Let's get started, Please!

@LifeWellCruised 13 күн бұрын

😂😂

@Fat_Buddha 13 күн бұрын

Sorry if you've answered this question a million times, but I tried Googling it and couldn't find a great answer. If I do NOT buy a drink package, can I purchase individual drinks (alcoholic or non) from the bar? My wife and I don't drink, but may want to have A drink just for fun.

@judithnielsen8170 13 күн бұрын

Yes, you can buy a drink. They will use your medallion (Princess) or cabin card and charge to your account. Often a tip is included.

@monikaliebold4225 13 күн бұрын

@@judithnielsen8170@Fat_Buddha With most major cruise lines there is no gratuity (tip) included on a single drink. Your drink will be charged (cabin card) automatically with an additional gratuity from around 15 to 20 % - depends on cruise line.

@judithnielsen8170 13 күн бұрын

@@monikaliebold4225 thanks, I meant tip would be added not included.

@wallymontero 13 күн бұрын

# notification Squad

@chrisanastasia4361 12 күн бұрын

Speaking of ship WiFi, for some reason when we were on Oasis of the Seas I couldn't connect to the WiFi unless I turned off any VPN software. Not sure if this will happen to everyone

@VivianMolinares-cq6li 13 күн бұрын

We’ve always cruised in the Caribbean. However, we’re doing the fjords this time. Even though gratuities are included, there are always extras. Will American dollars be ok?

@monikaliebold4225 13 күн бұрын

Regarding ship: Cruising with an American cruise line USD are definitely okay. As cruise staff is international on nearly all ships all over the world, USD are accepted. Regarding ports: For European ports local currency would be the better choice - for Norway it's the Norwegian Kroner (NOK). USD and/or Euro are not really accepted in Norway. Btw the preferred payment method in Norway is credit card.

@dorisromanisko2219 13 күн бұрын

One of the things I learned on our last cruise (Princess), the crew members can deposit their tips, no matter the currency (Euros or USD) into their on-ship bank account. Then when they go ashore they use they debit card from this account to make purchases. They can also transfer money from this account to their family back home.

@monikaliebold4225 13 күн бұрын

@@dorisromanisko2219 It's true, that cruise staff can deposit on their account either USD/Euro or any other foreign currency, but if they deposit Euro or foreign currency with an American cruise line, the deposit accounts normally run in USD, cruise staff has to pay currency exchange fee. That's, why they prefer tipping in USD, when working on an American ship. Whilst cruising in mediterranean sea, I was even asked whether I can change their tips from Euros in USD (I'm originally European). Regarding ports: I explained, which currency/payment method is the best for passengers to use ashore in Norway.

@davidhurwitz2291 9 күн бұрын

Does anyone use the ship’s hangers that have clips? I never use them. Does anyone like the clip hangers? Wish the cruise lines would get rid of them or provide them upon request.

@steviemulkey2475 13 күн бұрын

2nd cruise coming this September. Much too many details to be concerned about. Vacation is supposed to be relaxing, not stressed out about trying to remember every little thing. Officially my last cruise. Hope everyone enjoys their cruise.

@patriciaritchie1783 13 күн бұрын

I hear you about the too many details. Why don’t the cruise lines print out the luggage tags and provide the holders when we arrive?

@YvonneTucker-hc2bg 13 күн бұрын

Oh, that is so sad. Once you get past one or two, it all becomes second nature. Don't overthink it. You are supposed to have fun. If you are worried you would forget something important, you might want to use a Travel Agent or Personal Cruise Planner. They will usually take care of everything for you from the cruise to shuttles, to flights and rooms. Hope you change your mind.