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Cruises might be magical — waking up in a brand new vacation spot daily, infinite meals, and sunsets that look straight out of a portray. However like every journey, a little bit of preparation could make or break your journey.
We now have been masking cruises for the previous 15 years. And once we had been simply beginning out, we additionally had fairly a number of misconceptions that turned out to be false and made some errors that had been truly avoidable. And on this article, we’ll share with you 13 rookie errors to keep away from when reserving a cruise or boarding a ship.
Plan good and spend much less time stressing and extra time sipping cocktails by the pool.
1. Reserving the improper cabin.
Not all cabins are created equal. Some rooms and decks can set off movement illness greater than different areas, whereas others are higher for senior vacationers as a result of they’re nearer to the elevator. So while you ebook a cruise, select a cabin or stateroom that most closely fits your wants.
On the whole, there are 4 principal varieties of cruise ship lodging:
- Inside rooms are normally the most affordable, but additionally probably the most cramped, and haven’t any home windows.
- Sea/Ocean view rooms have a window that would let in some gentle and have a view of the skin.
- Balcony rooms have some further house the place you’ll be able to step outdoors and get a greater view of the ocean and the ports.
- Suites have extra facilities than traditional. They arrive in all sizes and styles, and normally include all types of perks.
So in the event you’re claustrophobic or vulnerable to movement illness, it’s not a good suggestion to choose an inside cabin that’s on both finish of the ship. As a substitute, select one within the center half. You’ll additionally really feel the movement probably the most on increased decks or ranges.
When you’re touring with seniors or these with mobility points, select a room near the elevator. Ships are loopy lengthy, and it may be fairly difficult for them to stroll half the size of the ship daily.
Learn evaluations and have a look at the ship’s deck plan earlier than reserving.
2. Not understanding the inclusions.
Each time we function a cruise and point out the worth or charge, a few of the traditional questions we see within the remark part are: Is that for the room solely? How concerning the meals? How a lot if meals are included? Do we now have to pay to make use of or entry the swimming pools?
Usually or virtually all circumstances, while you ebook a cruise on the cruise line’s web site and even with a journey company, the cruise fare already contains the next for everything of the crusing:
USUAL INCLUSIONS
Once more, these are lined by your cruise fare.
- Lodging
– the room the place you’ll be staying - Entry to most facilities (like swimming pools)
– not all or with exceptions - Primary leisure or reveals
- Full board meals
– breakfast, lunch, dinner
There are two varieties of eating places on board: inclusive (or complimentary) and specialty (or paid).
When you dine on the inclusive or complimentary ones, you don’t have to pay something further. These are included in your cruise fare. Normally, there’s a buffet restaurant possibility. On Royal Caribbean, they’ve the Windjammer. On Star Cruises, it’s Lido. And on Costa Serena, Prometeo. However other than the buffet, there’s additionally a complimentary full-service (or high quality eating) possibility, which can also be freed from cost. The names additionally differ relying on the ship.
Just lately, on our earlier cruise reel about Costa Serena, there was a remark that they bought uninterested in the buffet meals however didn’t attempt eating at Vesta as a result of they thought it was high quality eating and needed to pay further. Once I advised them that Vesta was truly free, they couldn’t consider it. I even needed to clarify it additional. They thought that as a result of it was high quality eating, it might incur further charges and that solely the buffet was “free”. What a missed alternative! Think about, seven days of crusing they usually didn’t get to expertise the opposite complimentary eating places.
So earlier than the cruise, familiarize your self with the complimentary or inclusive options of the ship to maximise your money and time! Make each journey value it!
So, you need to know the inclusions, in addition to the exclusions!
3. Not budgeting for “hidden expenses”.
However, many first-timers assume cruises are 100% all-inclusive. Spoiler alert: they’re not.
While you’re reserving a cruise, the primary costs which are introduced to you might be normally simply the so-called “cruise fare”. As talked about, it already covers your lodging, principal meals, and entry to facilities and a few leisure. However while you attain the checkout web page, you’ll all of the sudden discover some additions to the associated fee. That’s most likely the “port expenses”. Extra on this later. Beneath are the exclusions out of your cruise fare that you need to be conscious of.
EXCLUDED FROM CRUISE FARE
- Port Fees. Port expenses (typically known as port charges or port taxes) are the obligatory charges that cruise strains pay to every port your ship visits, form of like “lease” for docking there. The cash goes to the port authorities for issues like upkeep, safety, and customs operations. You’ll normally see port expenses already included in your complete cruise fare, however typically they’re listed individually to indicate transparency. They’re not optionally available, even in the event you determine to remain on the ship and skip the tour. The cruise line nonetheless has to pay the port to your ship’s go to. When you’re reserving with a journey company, the printed charges normally don’t embrace port expenses but. So count on to pay extra upon reserving.
- Flights and Transfers. Attending to the port is just not included both, until you’re reserving a fly-and-cruise package deal.
- Journey Tax. Philippine passport holders additionally have to settle the Philippine journey tax.
- Gratuities. These are nightly service expenses robotically added to your invoice to compensate the hardworking crew reminiscent of your cabin attendants, eating employees, and behind-the-scenes crew, who preserve all the things spotless and working easily. You won’t see most of them, however they’re those ensuring your towels are magically folded into swans and your buffet plates by no means run dry. Some cruise strains and sailings (like Singapore sailings of Royal Caribbean) embrace gratuities within the fare. However others cost them individually — normally round USD 10–20 per particular person per day. You’ll be able to prepay them earlier than your journey or have them billed on the finish of your cruise. And whilst you’re technically allowed to regulate or take away them in some circumstances, it’s usually frowned upon until one thing went terribly improper. These crew members work lengthy hours for modest pay, in order that little further goes a great distance. In brief, it’s not a rip-off, it’s simply cruise tradition.
- Different Necessary Charges. For sailings to Japan, a JPY 1000 Vacationer Arrival Payment can also be collected. For Sanya, China, in our expertise, we had been charged a HKD 15 dealing with payment.
These are a very powerful. Nevertheless, there are additionally optionally available gadgets that may make your cruise expertise extra handy or fulfilling however are additionally not included in your cruise fare.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
- Wifi. Cruise ships normally provide web packages for a payment.
- Shore Excursions. Sure, you will get off the ship and discover the locations. You are able to do it by yourself (DIY-style) or be part of an organized tour. However both manner, these aren’t included. Your bills while you alight the ship aren’t included. DIY normally finally ends up extra budget-friendly.
- Meals at “paid eating” spots. Earlier, I discussed inclusive or complimentary eating places. You’ll additionally discover specialty or paid eating choices on board. While you dine in one in every of these specialty eating places, you’ll be charged further. However you’ll be able to completely get by with out these premium eating places.
Drinks are additionally restricted to water, primary espresso or tea, and typically, a number of flavored drinks. In order for you soda, different juices, smoothies, wine, beer, or cocktails, you’ll need to pay for them.
Drink packages are additionally quite common on cruise ships, which will provide you with limitless drinks, however they’re normally very costly and unhealthy. I’ve by no means paid for a drink package deal, and I nonetheless take pleasure in my time on board with out issues.
4. Lacking out on promos.
Cruise strains are continuously working promos. We frequently encounter gross sales like “4th visitor sails free,” “youngsters cruise free,” or “purchase one, get one 50% off.” These offers can slash a whole bunch of {dollars} off your complete fare, however provided that you understand when and the place to look.
The issue is that many first-timers panic-book on the first respectable worth they see. The secret’s to remain looking out. Cruise strains are inclined to launch promos throughout off-peak reserving durations or once they’re filling up particular sail dates. When you’re versatile along with your journey dates and cabin sort, you’ll be able to snag insane offers.
Additionally, TPTers or our readers can even take pleasure in an extra 5% OFF on some cruises. All it’s essential to do is bear in mind and enter our promo codes. For Star Cruises (Star Navigator and Star Voyager) and Dream Cruises (Genting Dream), ebook at www.stardreamcruises.com and use our code thepoortraveler, small letters or lowercase! That’s 5% OFF!
We even have a code for Royal Caribbean in the event you ebook with Cruising.com.ph. The code is WORTHIT, which can even provide you with 5% OFF. You’ll be able to attempt it on their web site, however typically the system doesn’t work. However in the event you ebook with Cruising on the cellphone, simply point out that you just had been referred to by THE POOR TRAVELER and point out the code WORTHIT.
It is usually vital to do not forget that extra providers and comforts are normally less expensive while you ebook them BEFORE your crusing date — wifi, shore excursions or excursions, drink packages, and even paid eating places. You’ll save extra in the event you ebook them upfront than while you’re already on board.
Some employees, normally managers or head waiters, are additionally licensed to grant reductions. We normally expertise this on Royal Caribbean cruises. The pinnacle waiter assigned to us on the principal eating room gave us 50% OFF on one other restaurant once we talked about we needed to attempt it.
5. Not figuring out the visa necessities.
Many first-time cruisers assume that as a result of they’re “simply on a ship,” they will skip the entire visa enterprise. Flawed. Even in the event you’re technically solely stepping off for a number of hours throughout a port cease, you’re nonetheless coming into one other nation. And if that nation requires a visa to your nationality, you higher have one — otherwise you won’t be allowed to board the ship in any respect.
Fortunately, a lot of the cruise ships accessible to us Filipinos don’t require visas. When you’re crusing to or from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, or Taiwan, no visa is required for Philippine passport holders.
For Japan, a visa is NOT required for cruise passengers arriving and departing on the identical ship. However it’s essential to pay the Vacationer Arrival Payment (JPY 1000). Cruise strains normally cost USD 10 for this.
For China, as of writing, in the event you’re staying in China for lower than 24 hours, you’ll be able to transit with no visa. When you’re staying longer, you’ll want to use for one. To be secure, you’ll be able to apply for a double-entry visa.
For South Korea, no want for a visa in the event you’re visiting Jeju Island solely. However in the event you’re crusing to another a part of South Korea, you’ll want one.
IS VISA REQUIRED FOR FILIPINOS?
- Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong: NO
- Japan: NO – Not required for cruise ship passengers, however JPY 1000 arrival payment applies.
- China: NO – if staying for lower than 24 hours. However in the event you really feel such as you’re going over, higher apply for a visa.
- South Korea: Jeju Island – NO; Busan and the remainder of South Korea – YES
Notice: That is as of this writing, 2025. These insurance policies change over time, so ensure you get the up to date information. Cruise strains will normally inform you after reserving, however it’s nonetheless your accountability to substantiate the necessities.
6. Not giving sufficient time allowance.
You must give your self sufficient time earlier than and after your crusing. Cruise embarkation and disembarkation might be chaotic. Flight delays, cancellations, and even visitors can simply spoil your plans. Arrive on the port metropolis not less than a day earlier than departure. It provides you a cushion in case one thing goes improper.
The identical goes for after the cruise. Disembarkation can take hours, so don’t schedule an early flight house. As a substitute, spend another night time within the metropolis. It’s far more enjoyable and stress-free. It additionally provides you a while to discover the house port.
WAIT, WAIT, WAIT! If it’s essential to ebook a resort within the homeport metropolis, you’ll be able to ebook with Agoda. However please use our promo code AGODATPT for as much as P5800 OFF. Utilizing the Agoda app, enter AGODATPT on the DEALS tab. Then when it’s time to ebook a resort, enter it once more upon checkout. That’s truly 10% OFF however capped at USD 10, in order that’s 5800 pesos primarily based on present conversion. That’s big! We additionally get credited for each reserving, which helps us preserve this web site.
7. Battling time zone confusion.
Some sailings cross time zones, which makes time-telling fairly difficult. Immediately, your cellphone says one factor, the ship’s clock says one other.
Lots of first-timers don’t understand that the ship’s “official time” doesn’t at all times match the native time at port, which may trigger chaos when planning shore excursions or assembly factors. Miss the all-aboard time as a result of your cellphone auto-adjusted? The ship received’t wait.
Cruise strains normally announce time adjustments over the intercom or within the day by day bulletin, however individuals are inclined to miss it between buffets and bingo. All the time double-check the ship’s time earlier than getting off. It’s normally posted in all places or displayed on the in-room TV.
TIP! When doubtful, set your cellphone to airplane mode and manually regulate the clock to “ship time.” This manner, your machine doesn’t betray you mid-shopping spree overseas. It feels like a small mistake, however it occurs loads.
By the way in which, each night time, your cabin steward will depart a day by day program in your room. It lists all the things taking place onboard the subsequent day: reveals, trivia video games, dance lessons, film screenings, meals tastings, and even karaoke. It additionally tells you if there shall be time zone crossing quickly.
8. Overlooking shore tour logistics.
Some stops or ports of name are simpler to discover than others. For instance, Penang and Malacca in Malaysia, Phuket’s Patong Seaside in Thailand, and Naha in Okinawa are straightforward to discover even with out becoming a member of a tour. In Penang, the highly regarded Artwork Avenue is simply inside strolling distance. In Naha, you can too stroll to a bus cease or get a cab simply.
However Port Klang is sort of indifferent from Kuala Lumpur. And in Taiwan, in case your goal is Taipei, it takes time to achieve it from Keelung, particularly in the event you’re taking public transportation. In Japan, Ishigaki’s port is sort of remoted, with a really restricted variety of taxis, so it’s greatest to constitution one upfront.
Keep in mind! Cruise ships observe strict schedules, and they won’t watch for late passengers.
When you be part of a ship-organized tour, you’re secure — they’ll ensure you’re again in time. However in the event you discover independently, be aware of the all-aboard time. It’s not like lacking a bus; in the event you’re late, the ship will actually sail with out you. All the time regulate the clock, and provides your self not less than an hour’s buffer earlier than departure.
And oh, it’s at all times greatest observe to buy journey insurance coverage earlier than your journey. It’s not only for accidents; it additionally covers journey cancellations, delays, misplaced baggage, and people little “plot twists” that are inclined to occur on the worst doable time. You in all probability received’t want it (fingers crossed), however in the event you ever do, you’ll be so glad you bought it. Consider it as probably the most boring buy that would find yourself saving your total trip.
The factor is, not all journey insurance coverage corporations present protection for cruises. However one which I do know undoubtedly does is PGA Sompo’s TravelJoy. To ebook, simply go to www.thepoortraveler.web/shield. This may lead you to PGA Sompo’s official journey insurance coverage citation web page.
Cruise insurance coverage insurance policies are barely pricier — normally a 30% premium is added — however that’s higher than nothing. To assist cut back the associated fee, use our code WORTHIT, which will provide you with 5% OFF.
9. Forgetting the costume code.
Most cruise ships working in Asia are fairly informal. Nevertheless it’s nonetheless fairly enjoyable to decorate up. You would possibly assume, “It’s trip! I’ll put on slippers in all places.” However not all eating rooms or lounges agree. Whereas ships have grow to be extra lenient, full-service eating places normally don’t permit swimwear, flip-flops, and pajamas.
I normally pack two units of outfits per day. One informal for daytime exploring and one thing extra smart-casual for nighttime actions. On the very least, my private rule is, at fine-dining locations, my high ought to not less than have a collar.
Some ships even have formal or gala nights, which require correct apparel — like a costume or a collared shirt. Don’t fear, you don’t really want to deliver a tux. Simply one thing a bit nicer than your “mall” outfit.
And in the event you intend to swim, correct swimwear is normally non-negotiable.
10. Overpacking
Cruise cabins are cozy — and by cozy, we imply small. Typically, actually small. Bringing two suitcases filled with “simply in case” outfits will depart you tripping over your baggage. The trick? Pack good.
Keep on with mix-and-match items, deliver one pair of costume sneakers, and don’t overlook swimwear and one thing heat for the chilly decks at night time.
Additionally, don’t overlook a small day bag for shore excursions. You’ll want someplace to stash sunscreen, your cellphone, and that “memento” you didn’t plan to purchase.
11. Bringing prohibited gadgets.
Cruise strains have strict guidelines about what you’ll be able to and might’t deliver on board, they usually take them significantly. These guidelines differ relying on the ship or cruise line, however normally, weapons, unlawful substances, and gadgets which are sharp, flammable and harmful are prohibited. These are fairly apparent.
However there are different issues that individuals mistakenly attempt to deliver on board, however find yourself getting confiscated. These embrace:
- Warmth-generating gadgets like flat iron (though hair straighteners and curling irons are normally exempted).
- Extension cords or energy strips, as these are fireplace hazards. As a substitute, deliver these small journey adapters.
- Alcoholic drinks, typically prohibited on most ships, with a number of exceptions, like one bottle of wine per cabin (Royal Caribbean).
Once more, these guidelines differ from firm to firm, so simply examine the high quality print earlier than packing.
12. Not getting ready for seasickness.
Some vacationers deal with sea days (days with no port cease) as “wasted” days. Huge mistake. Sea days are literally the very best a part of cruising, the calm between adventures.
Use them to chill out. Lounge by the pool, hit the spa, be part of a wine-tasting, or simply nap prefer it’s your job. It’s also possible to use the time to discover the ship. By the top, you’ll understand sea days are while you actually really feel the cruise life.
However it’s today at excessive seas that are usually the shakiest. Even in the event you assume you’re not the kind to get movement illness, the ocean would possibly humble you. It occurs to the very best of us — even seasoned vacationers.
Pack motion-sickness patches, tablets, or wristbands simply in case. And in the event you begin feeling queasy, go outdoors and have a look at the horizon. It helps your mind recalibrate.
I don’t actually get dizzy loads. However I’m at all times ready for it. Fortunately, I by no means had to make use of it. Not but, not less than.
13. Not bringing backup money.
On most cruise ships, all the things you purchase onboard will get charged to your room key or card. However when you step ashore, it’s a distinct story. Some ports, markets, and even taxis nonetheless favor good old style money. And in case your bank card all of the sudden decides to have belief points mid-trip, you’re in hassle.
Right here’s the factor: typically, your financial institution sees international transactions and freaks out, assuming your card’s been stolen despite the fact that you’re simply attempting to purchase souvenirs. When that occurs, the cardboard will get blocked. Been there, accomplished that. It occurred to us once we had been crusing within the Caribbean from Miami. It additionally occurred to a good friend once we had been crusing from Singapore to Malaysia.
It’s not straightforward to contact customer support overseas whereas everybody else is fortunately exploring. That’s why it’s at all times good to deliver backup money and one other card, ideally from a distinct financial institution or community (like one Visa and one Mastercard). Maintain some native forex for every port, plus a number of crisp USD payments as common backup. It doesn’t need to be loads — simply sufficient for emergencies, ideas, or that impossible to resist avenue meals.
Convey some small payments, too, for tipping crew members who go the additional mile. Somewhat generosity goes a great distance, and these hardworking people typically bear in mind your kindness (and your favourite drink order).
It’s your flip! Do you could have ideas so as to add to this record? Or have you ever been responsible of any of those? Tell us within the feedback part under.
Updates Log
2025 11 5 – First uploaded
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