The interest in going on your first cruise is greater than ever. This is shown by statistics from the cruise organization CLIA, where 73 percent of first-time cruisers respond that they can imagine a vacation at sea.* On a cruise, you get to experience different places during one and the same trip, something that seems to attract vacation-hungry travelers. So, what is good to think about before a cruise? Karen Tucker, Sales Director for the Nordics at Royal Caribbean International, gives her best tips on how to best prepare for – and optimize – your travel experience as a first-time cruise traveler.
The trend is towards more and more people choosing cruising as a form of vacation, and the group that is increasing
Most are those who are trying out cruising for the very first time.
– It is of course great fun to see how more and more people are choosing to spend their vacation on a cruise.
For many, it is a dream trip considering how many destinations and cultures you can experience.
experience during a single vacation, says Karen Tucker. According to CLIA, 85 percent of those who have ever cruised will choose to cruise again.* But what might be good to consider as a first-time cruiser? After 16 years at Royal Caribbean International, Karen Tucker has collected a number of useful tips for first-time cruisers. Below are the top five:
- Find your ship
A cruise as a cruise? No, shipping companies usually have lots of different ships to choose from.
to choose from. In Royal Caribbean International's fleet of ships you can find something for everyone,
regardless of whether you want something family-friendly, for the solo traveler or a group of friends.
As a first-time traveler, it may be a good idea to seek help from a travel advisor, or
compare options yourself on the website. The earlier you book, the greater the chance of
secure a good price and find affordable deals. - Download the shipping company's app
Check in online and register your details before you leave home. The more
that is prepared, the faster and smoother it will go
cruise terminal. Many cruise companies have an app, where the traveler can get
Help with everything from planning to check-in and support during the trip. - Small bag for the first day
On a cruise, you have a lot to gain from packing smart. Make sure to have a small
suitcase with you on board with everything you need for the first few hours. Your big
Your suitcase will be delivered later in the day by the ship's staff directly to your
cabin. Swimwear, sunscreen and necessities for the children are examples of things that are
good to pack in the small bag. - Plan your stay – or go with the flow
Most cruise ships offer a wide range of entertainment and activities.
This means that whether you want to go to a musical, ride a water slide, listen to
live music, go to the casino or relax at the ship's spa, you can keep track of when you
can do what in the ship's app. You can also ask the staff on board for a program for
day. This makes cruising a suitable form of holiday for both those who like
to plan – but also for those of you who prefer to feel in the moment and appreciate
spontaneous activities. - From swimwear to cocktail dresses – pack for every occasion
Given the wide range of items on the ships, you need to pack everything from swimwear to
sundeck and poolside lounge, to elegant and dressed up for restaurant visits and
evening activities. Some ships even have ice skating rinks, so it's wise to
pack a pair of long pants and gloves. In the app you can see which activities
offered on board the cruise ship, along with information about
any clothing advice, concludes Karen Tucker.
CLIA: State of the Cruise Industry Report 2023
According to the press release.
