Tips for first-time cruisers

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to new horizons, exploring exciting destinations and enjoying the luxury of life at sea, 2025 might just be the perfect year to embark on your first cruise. But stepping aboard for the first time can feel overwhelming without a little guidance. That’s why we’ve put together these essential tips to help you navigate every step of your journey - from planning and booking to settling into life onboard. 

Choosing the right cruise line is like finding the perfect travel companion - it sets the tone for your entire journey. Start by considering your travel style and priorities. Are you looking for family-friendly fun, a luxurious escape or an adult-only adventure? Research what each cruise line specialises in and compare their offerings, such as dining options and onboard activities. Think about the destinations they visit, the size of their ships, and even the dress code onboard. Reading reviews and asking experienced cruisers for recommendations can help, too. 

Picking the right voyage type is essential for ensuring you enjoy your first cruise. Begin by considering how you’d like to travel: if you’d prefer to start your holiday closer to home, a no-fly cruise is perfect. If you’re eager to explore exotic destinations further afield, a fly-cruise is an excellent choice. Ocean cruises are perfect for those who want to sail the high seas to a wide selection of destinations, while river cruises provide a more intimate and immersive experience. For families, family cruises are packed with child-friendly activities, entertainment and dining options that keep the whole clan happy. Meanwhile, adults-only cruises offer a quieter, more relaxed escape. 

Choosing the right destination makes all the difference. Start by thinking about the type of adventure you want - are you drawn to sun-soaked beaches and turquoise waters in the Caribbean, or do you dream of exploring historic cities and stunning coastlines in the Mediterranean? If natural wonders are your calling, consider an Alaskan cruise with breathtaking glaciers or a journey through the Norwegian Fjords. For cultural immersion, river cruises along the Danube or Mekong can offer intimate encounters with local traditions and landmarks. Also, think about the season you plan to travel, as destinations like the Caribbean are ideal year-round, while others, like Alaska, have a limited cruise window. 

Want to test the waters? A mini cruise lasting 2-4 nights is a fantastic option, giving you a taste of life at sea without a big commitment. For those ready to dive deeper, a week-long cruise offers a great balance of exploration and relaxation, with plenty of time to enjoy multiple destinations and the ship’s amenities. If you’re looking for a more immersive adventure, longer voyages - spanning two weeks or more - allow you to explore distant destinations over a longer period of time. 

Choosing the right cabin is an important step in making your first cruise as comfortable as possible. Start by considering your budget and priorities. If you’re looking for affordability and plan to spend most of your time exploring the ship and destinations, an interior cabin is a great choice. An oceanview cabin offers windows or portholes with scenic views for those who want a little more natural light. If relaxing on a private balcony sounds appealing, a balcony cabin gives you your own outdoor space to enjoy the sea breeze. Meanwhile, a suite offers the ultimate in luxury, with extra space and premium perks. Don’t forget to think about the ship’s layout - cabins near lifts or at midship can provide easier access and more stability, especially for those prone to seasickness. 

Read next: Explaining the different types of cruise ship cabins

Understanding cruise fares is essential to getting the best value. Cruise fares can vary widely, so start by looking at what’s included in the price. Most fares cover accommodations, meals and basic onboard entertainment, but extras like speciality dining, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and drink packages often come at an additional cost. Some cruise lines offer all-inclusive packages that bundle these extras, which can be a great deal if you plan to use those amenities. Pay attention to promotions or deals, such as free upgrades, onboard credits or discounted rates, as these can add significant value. Finally, compare different fare types. 

Timing is everything when it comes to booking your cruise. For the best deals and widest selection of cabins, it’s smart to book early - often six months to a year in advance. This is especially true for popular itineraries or peak travel seasons, like summer, which can sell out quickly. However, if you’re flexible with your travel dates and destinations, last-minute cruise deals can offer significant savings, typically appearing a few weeks before departure. Wave Season, which runs from January to March, is another great time to book, as cruise lines offer special promotions like free upgrades, onboard credits or discounted fares. 

Choosing the right cruise specialist can make booking your first cruise a breeze, and ROL Cruise is a standout option for first-timers and seasoned travellers alike. We’re known for our expertise, knowledge, and award-winning service. We offer personalised advice to help you find the perfect cruise to match your preferences. We work with top cruise lines, giving you access to exclusive deals, upgrades and perks that you won’t find elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway, a family adventure or a themed voyage, our dedicated team simplifies the booking process and provides support every step of the way. 

Once you’ve booked your cruise, it’s important to know exactly what’s included in your fare to avoid surprises and make the most of your trip. Most cruise fares cover your accommodations, meals in main dining venues, onboard entertainment and access to pools and fitness centres. However, extras like speciality dining, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, drink packages and spa treatments often come at an additional cost, so plan your budget accordingly. Many cruise lines also offer a dedicated app that can enhance your experience. Download it before you sail to access your itinerary, book activities and check daily schedules. 

Researching your itinerary is an exciting part of preparing for your trip and ensures you make the most of every destination. Start by familiarising yourself with each port of call. What must-see attractions, cultural highlights, or unique experiences are available? Check if your cruise line offers shore excursions or explore independent tour options for more flexibility. Consider the time you’ll have in each port, as some stops are brief while others offer a full day to explore. Look into practical details like local currency, customs and transportation options to make getting around easier. 

Booking shore excursions is a fantastic way to make the most of your time at each destination and add unforgettable experiences to your cruise. Start by reviewing your cruise line's excursions - they’re often convenient, guided and tailored to the destination. Consider booking through reputable third-party providers or exploring independently for more flexibility or unique activities. When choosing excursions, consider your interests- cultural tours, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing on a beautiful beach. Keep in mind the time you have in port and the activity’s difficulty level to ensure it matches your preferences and pace. Popular excursions can sell out quickly, so booking in advance is wise. 

Packing for your first cruise is all about balancing practicality with preparation for a variety of activities. Start by checking your cruise line’s dress code - many cruises have casual days but may include formal evenings or themed nights. Pack versatile clothing that suits both lounging by the pool and exploring ports, along with at least one dressier outfit for special dinners or events. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking tours and onboard activities. Don’t forget essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, a hat and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. If you’re flying to your departure port, pack important items like medications, travel documents and a change of clothes in your carry-on, just in case. 

Embarking early is a great way to kick off your cruise and make the most of your time onboard. Arriving at the port early allows you to breeze through check-in, settle into your cabin and start exploring the ship before it gets crowded. Take this opportunity to tour the ship and familiarise yourself with its layout - locate key areas like restaurants, pools, entertainment venues and your muster station for safety drills. Many cruise lines also open dining areas or offer welcome drinks during embarkation, so you can start enjoying your holiday right away. 

Settling into your cabin is one of the first things you’ll do onboard, and it’s a great way to start your cruise on the right foot. Once you arrive, take a few minutes to unpack and organise your belongings - many cabins have clever storage options like drawers, shelves and under-bed space to help you stay tidy. Familiarise yourself with the room’s features, such as the thermostat and television, and check your daily itinerary or welcome pack for important information about the ship’s activities. If you have any questions or need extra items like pillows or hangers, your cabin steward is there to help. 

Getting to know your dining options onboard is a delicious part of your cruise experience. Most ships offer a variety of dining choices, from main dining rooms with elegant, sit-down meals to casual buffets perfect for a quick bite. Many cruises also feature speciality restaurants, offering gourmet cuisine, international flavours or themed dining experiences - these often require reservations and may come with an extra fee, so plan ahead if there’s one you’d like to try. Don’t forget to check for flexible dining options, such as anytime dining or room service, which lets you eat when it’s convenient for you. 

Your daily planner is your ultimate guide to making the most of life onboard. Delivered to your cabin or accessible through the cruise line’s app, it lists all the activities, events and entertainment scheduled for the day. From fitness classes and trivia games to live shows and themed parties, the planner helps you see what’s happening and when. Take a few minutes each morning to review it and highlight the activities that interest you most. Don’t forget to note important details like dining hours, port arrival times or any reservations you’ve made.