Have you ever dreamt of embarking on a journey across the open seas, exploring new destinations, and indulging in unparalleled luxury and entertainment, but found yourself hesitant? Perhaps the world of cruising seems daunting, filled with unanswered questions that keep you from booking your first voyage. You’re not alone! Many first-time cruisers share these concerns.
When we first considered a cruise for our honeymoon, we were overwhelmed with questions. Our only reference point was my parents’ experiences, which, to our youthful minds, suggested cruising was exclusively for an older demographic. We worried we wouldn’t fit in, that it would be a monotonous experience, or simply not ‘our style’. How wrong we were!
After experiencing over a dozen cruises in recent years, we’ve become passionate advocates for this incredible way to travel. Cruising offers something for everyone, regardless of age, interest, or travel style. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most frequently asked questions from those new to cruising, hoping to demystify the process and inspire you to set sail.
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Unveiling the Mystery: Your Top 10 Cruise FAQs Answered
If you have a question we haven’t covered, please don’t hesitate to ask! We’re here to help you navigate the exciting world of cruise vacations.
1. Is a cruise vacation expensive? What’s included in the price?
The cost of a cruise can vary dramatically, making it a surprisingly flexible travel option for almost any budget. You can find incredible deals for just a few hundred dollars for a short getaway, or splurge on luxury voyages costing thousands. The final price depends on several factors: the cruise line’s prestige (e.g., budget-friendly Carnival vs. premium lines like Celebrity or luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas), the length of your journey, your cabin choice (interior, ocean view, balcony, suite), and the ports of call.
One of the most appealing aspects of cruising is the comprehensive nature of the fare. Your basic cruise price typically includes: your accommodation (your cabin), all your main meals (at the main dining rooms, buffets, and sometimes certain casual eateries), and a vast array of entertainment options. This means dazzling Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, trivia, pools, fitness centers, and many onboard activities are all part of your initial payment. While you can certainly incur additional costs by purchasing alcoholic beverages, dining at specialty restaurants, enjoying spa treatments, or trying your luck at the casino, these are entirely optional. No one will pressure you into extra spending; your cruise can be as all-inclusive or as customized as you wish.
2. Do I have to dress formally every night on a cruise?
Thankfully, the era of mandatory formal attire every evening on most cruise lines is largely a thing of the past. While you are absolutely welcome to dress to the nines nightly – and many cruisers love the opportunity to do so – it is rarely a strict requirement. Modern cruising offers a spectrum of dining dress codes to suit every preference.
Most mainstream cruise lines, like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, have a “cruise casual” or “smart casual” standard for their main dining rooms on most nights. This typically means slacks or nice jeans, collared shirts for men, and dresses, skirts, or smart trousers for women. Swimsuits and tank tops are usually not permitted in the main dining rooms in the evenings. For those who prefer ultimate relaxation, the buffet and outdoor casual eateries are always available, where a more relaxed, but still appropriate, attire is perfectly acceptable (just remember, “casual” means clothes, not just swimwear!). Some evenings might be designated “optional formal” or “dress-up nights,” allowing guests to don gowns and tuxedos if they choose, but there will always be casual dining alternatives available.
On Carnival, for instance, we enjoy dressing up a little for dinner – it feels like a special date night. For me, that might mean a comfortable skirt, a stylish summer dress, or a cute top with nice pants. My husband John often opts for a button-down shirt and smart trousers, sometimes adding a jacket if he feels like it. It’s about feeling good and celebrating the vacation, not adhering to strict rules.
3. Will I actually have fun on a cruise? What kinds of activities are there?
Oh, absolutely! The beauty of a cruise is the sheer freedom of choice and the incredible variety of activities available, ensuring everyone from the most active adventurer to the most dedicated relaxation-seeker will find their bliss. You are the master of your vacation experience.
Do you dream of lazy days? You can spend an entire afternoon napping in your cabin, catching up on movies, or enjoying the luxury of room service with an ocean view. Perhaps you prefer soaking up the sun by the pool with a refreshing cocktail in hand, or finding a quiet lounge chair in the shade to watch the world drift by. For the more active, cruise ships offer dance classes, fitness centers with state-of-the-art equipment and group classes (like yoga or spinning), sports courts, jogging tracks, and even mini-golf or waterslides on many ships. If learning is your passion, you might find enrichment lectures, cooking demonstrations, or art classes. Evenings come alive with dazzling Broadway-style shows, live music from jazz to rock, comedy clubs, casinos, nightclubs, and themed parties. Families will find dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs packed with supervised activities. With so many options, the only challenge is deciding what to do next! We often schedule a “forced relaxation” nap each day just to ensure we actually slow down amidst all the excitement.
4. Are cruises family-friendly, or are they more of a party scene?
Cruises today cater to an incredibly diverse range of demographics, and you can absolutely find a cruise that perfectly matches your desired atmosphere – whether that’s a wild party or a serene family getaway. While short, specifically marketed “party cruises” (often for college students or spring breakers) do exist, they are generally the exception, not the rule.
Most major cruise lines excel at providing a multi-generational experience. Lines like Disney Cruise Line are renowned for their family focus, but Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian also offer extensive programs and facilities for all ages. On these ships, you’ll typically find dedicated kids’ clubs for various age groups (from toddlers to teens), offering supervised activities, games, and entertainment. Simultaneously, there are often adult-only sanctuaries, like Carnival’s Serenity Deck, providing a quiet oasis with pools, hot tubs, and comfortable lounge chairs, away from the family bustle. Evenings feature a mix of family-friendly shows and adult-oriented entertainment. We personally love Carnival because it truly offers something for everyone, ensuring that passengers from 0 to 99 can find activities and spaces they enjoy, striking a perfect balance between vibrant energy and relaxing tranquility.
5. Can I check my emails and social media from the ship? Is there internet access?
Yes, absolutely! Cruise ships are equipped with satellite internet access, which you can purchase once you’re on board. Most cruise lines offer various internet packages, ranging from basic access for checking emails and social media to more robust plans that allow for streaming and video calls. Prices typically vary based on the amount of data or time you need, or can be a flat daily rate.
It’s important to manage expectations, however. While shipboard internet has vastly improved, it relies on satellite technology, which can sometimes be slower or less reliable than land-based internet. You might experience occasional drops in connection, especially when the ship is in remote areas (like our experience in the middle of the Baltic Sea). For checking emails, sending messages, and light social media browsing, it’s generally very functional. If you plan to work remotely or stream movies extensively, you might find it challenging, but for staying connected with loved ones or sharing your vacation highlights, it’s perfectly adequate. Many travelers also see a cruise as an opportunity to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the experience, but the option to connect is always there.
6. I have dietary restrictions or allergies. Will this be a problem on a cruise?
Not at all! Cruise lines are exceptionally accommodating when it comes to dietary restrictions and allergies. They are well-versed in catering to a wide range of needs, from vegetarian and vegan diets to gluten-free, dairy-free, and severe allergies.
The key is to communicate your needs in advance. When you book your cruise, or at least 30 days prior to embarkation, you should inform the cruise line of any dietary requirements. This allows them to ensure the ship is stocked with appropriate ingredients. Once on board, it’s also a good practice to speak with the head waiter in your assigned dining room on the first night. They are usually incredibly knowledgeable and will often work directly with the chefs to ensure your meals are safe, delicious, and tailored to your specifications. In buffets, many items are clearly labeled, and staff are usually available to answer questions.
As a vegetarian, I’ve never had an issue finding an abundance of delicious options on any cruise. Even in specialty restaurants like a steakhouse, the chefs have always gone above and beyond to create an amazing vegetarian meal for me. You can cruise with confidence, knowing that your dietary needs will be handled with care and attention.
7. What is the safety drill, and can I skip it?
The safety drill, often called the “muster drill,” is a mandatory procedure for all passengers on every cruise you take. It is a vital safety requirement and cannot be skipped. Before the ship sets sail, usually within a few hours of embarkation, all passengers are required to attend this brief, informative session.
During the drill, you’ll learn about important safety procedures, the location of your designated muster station (an assembly point in case of an emergency), and how to don a life jacket. Cruise staff check each cabin and count guests at their respective muster stations to ensure compliance. While it might seem like a minor inconvenience, it’s crucial for your safety and the safety of everyone on board. Think of it as a quick and essential briefing before your amazing cruise adventure truly begins – a clear sign that your vacation is about to start!
8. Do I need to bring cash on board for tips or purchases?
For most purchases and services *on board* the ship, you generally do not need cash. Cruise ships operate on a cashless system. Upon embarkation, you’ll typically receive a cruise card (or link your credit card to your onboard account) which serves as your room key, identification, and payment method for any purchases made on the ship, such as drinks, specialty dining, spa treatments, or gift shop items. All these charges are automatically added to your onboard account, which you settle at the end of your cruise.
Regarding tips (gratuities), most cruise lines automatically add a daily gratuity charge to your onboard account. This covers the service provided by your room steward, dining room staff, and other service personnel. You have the option to adjust these automatic gratuities at guest services if you wish, or you can give additional cash tips directly to specific crew members who have provided exceptional service. So, while you can bring cash for this purpose, it’s not strictly necessary unless you prefer to tip personally.
However, it is highly recommended to bring some cash, particularly smaller denominations, for your days in port. Your cruise card only works on the ship. When you’re exploring ports of call, you’ll need cash (local currency or USD, depending on the destination) or a credit card for taxis, local markets, small purchases, souvenirs, or tipping local tour guides. This ensures you’re prepared for any expenses once you step off the ship.
9. Are there exercise areas and healthy food options available to burn off calories?
This is entirely up to you! Cruising offers a wonderful balance of indulgence and opportunities for an active lifestyle, allowing you to tailor your vacation to your personal preferences. While cruise ship food is indeed renowned for its deliciousness and abundance, you’ll find an equally impressive array of options to stay active and make healthy choices.
Every major cruise ship boasts extensive fitness facilities. You’ll typically find a large, well-equipped gym with a wide range of cardio machines, weightlifting equipment, and often panoramic ocean views. Many ships also offer a variety of fitness classes, such as yoga, Pilates, spinning, and Zumba, often for a small fee or sometimes complimentary. Beyond the gym, you can utilize sports courts for basketball, volleyball, or tennis, enjoy refreshing laps in the swimming pools, or take advantage of dedicated jogging tracks on the upper decks. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator is a simple yet effective way to add extra steps. On many Carnival ships, you can even enjoy a round of mini-golf! We always make a point of walking the deck daily on our cruises; it’s a fantastic way to meet fellow passengers, soak in the amazing weather, and enjoy the stunning ocean views.
Plus, walking the deck offers the exhilarating chance to spot dolphins and other marine wildlife, a delightful bonus you certainly don’t get during a walk in my hometown of Spokane!
10. Are shore excursions included in my cruise rate?
For most cruise lines, shore excursions are an additional charge and are not included in your base cruise fare. These exciting activities allow you to explore the ports of call in depth, and their prices can vary significantly, typically ranging from around $30 for a simple beach transfer to several hundred dollars for an elaborate all-day adventure, depending on the activity, duration, and inclusions.
Booking excursions through the cruise line offers several key advantages. The cruise line thoroughly vets the local operators for quality, safety, and reliability. Critically, if an excursion booked through the ship runs late, the ship will wait for your return. If you book independently and are delayed, the ship may depart without you. Cruise-sponsored excursions also simplify logistics, often including transportation to and from the activity.
We’ve enjoyed many incredible excursions on our Carnival cruises. Highlights include exhilarating ATV rides and swimming with sharks in Grand Turk, relaxing on Passion Island near Cozumel, experiencing the beautiful Bayahibe beach in the Dominican Republic, and exploring the vibrant streets of Key West. You can typically browse and pre-book excursions for your specific itinerary on your cruise line’s website, where you’ll find detailed descriptions, prices, activity levels, durations, and whether meals or drinks are included.
We are truly passionate about cruising and love sharing our experiences. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions about planning your perfect cruise vacation!