5 Things Cruise Passengers Should Stop Doing, And Why

[@amyrivers4093]

I had a tear in my eye when you said that you and your partner take your Mums on cruises. I'm 43 (44 next week) and I lost my Mum to cancer Boxing Day 2020 and on the 27th January this year I found my Dad had unexpectedly passed away in his sleep. It gives me a feeling of peace knowing they are together again and I take them in my heart everywhere I go. I'm extremely close to my parents and I moved back home when my medical condition meant that it was too dangerous and life threatening to live alone. We looked after each other and not only were they my parents I feel honoured to call them my bests friends as well. Dad and I did everything together when Mum passed away. Hold on tight to your loved ones because you just don't know how long we all have left. I love your channel and you are so kind in your videos and I can't even imagine the huge number of people that have a successful cruise after watching your videos. This tells me you are a special person who wants people to love cruising. Thank you for all the hard work you put into each video because I have a good idea of what time is involved. I hope wherever you cruise this year that you have an amazing time because you deserve to. Xx

[@l.faraday8767]

We did our research before going on our first cruise in 2016. We spoke with other people who cruised and we chose Princess cruises. We’ve never been disappointed. We’re not interested in games, or parties and we love the quiet of the ships. We always pay for our excursions ahead of time. If we decide to cancel it’s easy once you’re onboard. We also pay for the tips beforehand. Our upcoming cruise in 2023, includes a drinks package, wifi and tips. I honestly think I could do a ten day cruise entirely at sea. 😂🇨🇦

[@notyourtypicalwatchreview2563]

Sea days sound so peaceful.

[@janet1717]

Do a crossing on Viking. It’s wonderful.

[@rarelycares8416]

My favorite cruise was on Holland America San Diego to Hawaii and back. 4+ sea days each way, the most relaxed I've ever been on a vacation.

[@jamesblood6035]

I'm going on my first cruise in two weeks, Alaska 4 day on the brand new Discovery Princess. I am so excited!

[@cmbooks2000]

This is so true. We base too much on cruise cost and not the things we would enjoy doing on vacation. My husband and I hated a lot of out first cruise and vowed never do it again. Having time to breathe and reflect, we now know that there are all kinds of cruises and we approach all travel from that perspective. Thank you as always for another great video

[@Warriorbox]

Great Tips as always Gary. I hope people contemplating their first cruise take note. I took my first cruise on P & O Arcadia at the end of 2019. It was a lifetime ambition and I loved it. Before I sailed I had watched every youtube video about the ship, the cabins, cruising in general, embarkation, the ports of call and how to get around them, the dress code, the included things and the supplementary costs. I steeped myself in cruising and my cruise in particular. I cant imagine how anyone could take a first cruise without knowing all about it - it's taking such an expensive risk if you don't do your research.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks! You definitely sound well prepared. I agree with you

[@happytraveller2122]

Totally agree. Research research research. Oh my goodness , the dribble I hear come out of people’s mouths because they didn’t read the brochures or checked facilities, or even know what kind of cabin they had. Stoopid stoopid people. Recently did a river cruise on emerald waterways. One woman complained bitterly that she didn’t have a balcony. I asked her if she’d looked at the brochure , looked online, asked her agent. Nada ! Nothing at all. FGS

[@kellindalton6028]

I love love how you both take your moms on vacations of their own!!

[@teams3345]

Many years ago my aunt (an avid cruiser) told me to go with the cheapest room. I picked a ship that I did not know was very close to be decommissioned. The carpet was worn, the ship did not have destabilizers, etc. This was bad advise. We waited about six years to cruise again. Our travel agent advised to pick the cruiseline, type room, and where you want to go. Very good advise. I could just be in a suite and cruise all the trip with no ports.

[@montyboswell6509]

I just want to say your moms are beautiful ladies, and so lucky to have such thoughtful sons! Lois

[@ilenegallo374]

When my mom was alive, we cruised because it was easier for her! I realize I learned to find cruises that catered to her needs! So, now when I cruise, I do my research like you have suggested! Thanks for all of the great insights!

[@cu4wur6023]

I’m certainly researching thanks to you and trying to be as prepared and organised as possible being our 1st cruise 🚢

[@cindybryant1584]

We have cruised with friends and had a great time. The trick is to do your own thing every day and meet up at dinnertime for the evening meal.

[@richjones6469]

Cruising for us is like any other product or service. It has to be fit for purpose or it's just a waste. Research is essential, to know what is to be had and is it wanted. When we did a cruise with the Managing Partner's parents, we all agreed up front that we would have shared time but not be joined at the hip. Had a great time!

[@bobkrakovich1851]

Hi Gary, when we went on our first cruise in May 2019, we just contacted a local teavel agency here in Connecticut and signed for a cruise to Bermuda. When we were informed the price was $100 more pp than advertised, I argued why. Then found out about different categories. That was on Celebrity Summit. We're sticking with Celebrity Millennium in November 2031, Summit in June 2022 and Constellation November 2022. We now have used a great Travel agency from Florida who works with us after we do the research ( cabin type, excursions packages). Not that we're seasoned veterans, but proper preparation is 2/3 of the game. Great video. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut, go Chelsea Blues 💙

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching and good to hear your experiences and you have found a switched on agent. Being well informed does keep them on their toes too :-)

[@Anne_GG145]

Great video and advice! If we don’t feel comfortable enough to discuss about each person’s needs and preferences, we shouldn’t travel together. Cruising is about having a great time 🚢! The pictures of the four of you are so nice, so much love 💗.

[@glennrenna2491]

When we go as a family, even our regular small family, you can do whatever you want during this day shows, games, pool party doesn't matter - everybody must get together for dinner that is the only time everybody must be together and it works great.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Sounds like you got it sorted! Great to hear

[@laurieanderson2186]

Love your cruises with the mums!!! Wish my kids could take me on a trip!

[@GaryWalshDublin]

Wonderful advice. I stopped looking at travel vlogs during Covid and yours was one of my favourites. Back now and you are still offering great advice and tips. I haven’t ever done a cruise yet but thinking i will in the next year.

[@celia61597]

I think it's lovely that you and your partner take your mums on cruises.

[@kays749]

Cruising with family is my favorite thing. Our only "rule" is that we all meet for dinner. If someone wants to do a different restaurant, that's not a problem as long as we communicate that beforehand. The adults and their kids can do their own thing if they choose to during the day, but we often do excursions together. We choose cruise lines with good kids' programs because when we take the kids, they spend most of their time in the clubs (even the teens.) Cruising just us, the old folks, we like a more traditional line and are currently loving HAL.

[@valeriebelmonte9556]

What a sweet family! Love the pictures!

[@ExestentialCrisis]

I booked the first cruise for hubby and I on a whim, without much research. However, we had no real expectations and are pretty easy going, so not too much could make us unhappy. All I wanted was open sea and sunshine. Anything after that was icing on the cake. It turned out wonderful. Hubby and I decided to make it an annual thing and now we go every year for our anniversary. Of course, some time AFTER the first cruise I ran across this channel and discovered so much that I didn't know to even ask beforehand. It's been an eye-opener. But for the most part, as with all of life, be grateful for what you have and make the most of it.

[@heatherpassons9863]

OMG your mum cruises are soooooo adorable!!!!

[@tacrewgirl]

Great info about booking the wrong cruise.

[@Katy32344]

I just went on my first cruise. It was Alaska on Celebrity. There were 3 sea days and I loved them.

[@kathyslocombe1182]

Great video! You are spot on, on so many points. Two that spoke to me were (1) cruising with friends. We did that and it was a nightmare. While we're still friends, we've never discussed the experience but without any exchange, we both know that we won't do that again. Second point, cruising with our blended family (11 adults & 5 children), we wanted to book a Disney cruise for/with them but after considering personalities, the level of experiences each of our children have enjoyed and what we believe would be their expectations, we decided against it.

[@crs2385]

That's the thing about different cruise lines, and individuals. The tastes, and options are subjective. But it's great how there's so much variety out there. Another great video Gary x

[@tipsfortravellers]

Agree! Thanks for watching and great to hear you enjoyed it

[@tiiuvanwinckle2005]

When I travel with my Mom/family, we have an understanding; do what you want on your own for the day as long as we eat dinner together. That is where we discuss our day and the plans for the next day. Also, to comment on not looking into the right ship, I did a world cruise a few years back and I met a man who was traveling with us. It was his first time ever cruising and he decided to do a 112 day cruise. He hated it so much, that he left the ship when we docked in New Zealand and went back home. I just look back to see all the money that he lost in doing that....but I guess some people have the ability to do that.

[@jmr1703]

Thanks to KZbin channels like yours, we have easy access to cruise tips and reviews. I've learned a lot. I'm focused on cruising NCL because it's personality is more my vibe but I'm still open to trying other lines. When you travel with other people, the honest conversation about expectations needs to happen before sailing. I've sailed with friends who have made me rethink the friendship based on their complaining that I'm too independent when they want to do everything as a group all the time. I like to weave in and out. Mix group activities with things I like on my own. I still cruise with friends sometime but I refuse to share a cabin. I need my own private space. This is why I like NCL bas I can book a solo and have a proper reason why I can't share my cabin.

[@karenreilly9425]

Been on several cruises and my advice is this go where you want to go and get at least an oceanview cabin. Take less clothes than you think you will need but more money I like to pre-pay before I go then there are no surprises. Give your kids a budget and make them stick to it. I was on one cruise with my children and didn't realize that they could use their cruise cards for video games. The kids thought it was free $75 later and needless to say I was not happy. I prefer more days at sea as opposed to island hopping.

[@earlmenary5502]

Sea days are the best days. I love the ride more than the ports, but then I'm 82 yrs. young and I'd rather ride than walk! Ha Ha

[@lilacbirman]

Great tips! Reminds me of my sisters friend who went on a Mediterranean cruise and hated it. She said there was nothing to do on board. I told my sister that her friend probably just picked the wrong ship. I won a cruise on Royal Viking back in the 80's. We were in our 20's and pretty much everyone else looked like retirement age, but we still managed to have fun.

[@vintagejones1372]

One of my favorite takeaways from watching your channel is discovering which questions to ask! Sorting through cruise line websites is quite like wedding planning - the amount of information is staggering. Drowning in choices and details, it's overwhelming. Thanks to your videos I am much clearer about whether going ala carte with a basic package and only adding the exact excursions and specialty dining we'd like or if an all (or nearly all) inclusive is worth the splurge and saves a ton of fuss. Much appreciation Gary.

[@tipsfortravellers]

That is so great to hear. I agree, there is so much information and asking the right few questions is the key

[@gilliandrysdale5306]

treasure the time with your mum Garry, they’re not around for ever. Thanks for a very interesting and helpful video

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thank you, I will

[@gailjohnson9066]

U R correct! The group pre talk is essential!! Everyone do what u want, if we overlap, great. If not see u at dinner. That's our method.

[@pamm3776]

Our first cruise was Holland and we had a lot of fun. We’ve done many of the cruise lines and found carnival is a carnival and was the worse. We are back to Holland this December because they are going where we are going.

[@DanetteSWhite]

Exactly why you check out the cruises BEFORE you sail. There's something for everyone on cruises.

[@Juluxton]

Great chat

[@lizkeith1356]

you're the best. many thanks

[@Lord.Kiltridge]

You raise some very interesting points and I am grateful for you many short videos. I am VERY concerned about an upcoming cruise. My entire household have expressed zero interest in cruising. That was until a cousin on my spouse's side suggested us four join their four. Now another 12 friends and family from their side have piled on. Making it a gang of about 20 mostly adults. The problem is that I have a disability and cannot function amid chaos. My only hope is that I will be allowed to wander off by myself and find quiet places to sip cocktails and relax.

[@tipsfortravellers]

That's a big crowd. Hopefully you get to do what you want. Definitely talk to some of them and let them know you plan to find some "me time" as doing that up front will make it easy. Keep me posted on how it goes !

[@Warriorbox]

Definitely tell them in advance that you intend to find some time to yourself - have a funny signal phrase that tells them you are not angry, upset or antisocial but just need some time to be on your own. Something like "I'm a celebrity, get me out of here!!" make it light hearted. I travel solo and I am quite up-front with people I meet and tell them "I am quite happy to meet up and have a drink or share a table, but I don't need to be taken under your wing or anything just because I am alone" I would hate to be the 'poor lady looking for company'. and make people give me their time because they feel sorry for me.

[@cruisergirl3478]

I'm sure your spouse would understand your predicament. Maybe she (or he) can let them know that you prefer to have some time together alone and would prefer to have dinner alone, just the two of you some of the evenings. I'm sure they'd understand. They might even appreciate their own alone time.

[@GinaStanyerBooks]

This was fantastic.

[@teresab208]

Sometimes chartered cruises may work better. There are 70s cruises, jazz cruises, Reggae cruises, all different cruises

[@trojanette8345]

Would love to see you do a review of RSS (Radisson Seven Seas) for your audience. This is the line I chose for my 1st and so far only, cruise back in 2004. Money, life, and circumstances have prevented me from cruising since then. My itinerary took me from NY (State) up into Canada. I remember visiting places such as Cape Breton, and Peggy's Cove Lighthouse. What I like ab't RSS was the fact (if I remember correctly) was that one of their dining rooms was dedicated to informal dining. I only remember getting dressed up for one dinner meal and that was by choice not, by mandate. Then, the rest of my evenings I went to the other casual dining room, instead.

[@cherifurr3935]

They don’t exist any more. Regent Seven Seas now, and he just took 100th cruise with them and had a video.

[@carolemerckel3461]

What to do on a sea day? Laundry of course!! A 10 day Caribbean Cruise is in the works for us next year. I sure won't be bringing 10 days worth of clothes with me.

[@saveddijon]

Assuming you can! On some ships there is no guest laundry. The crew will be happy to do it for you: $3/pair of socks, $10/shirt, etc... Which explains to me the popularity of Wal-Mart excursions on Hawaii cruises: you can buy new clothes for less than it costs to launder the dirties!

[@sheilakauvar5499]

Good luck finding a laundry on-board. Except for most Princess ships, there are few, if any, laundry rooms on board. Think hand washable camping type gear. But drying is a real pain. Hope it works out for you.

[@ruthgawn9341]

@@saveddijon 9

[@stephenbrunner2543]

I booked my first cruise trying to employ all your tips. I am 69, solo, and it may or may not be my last cruise as well but taking it knocks an item off my bucket list. So, end of next May will be off to the Norweign Fjords from Amsterdam on Holland America for seven day cruise. It has two sea days and one stop is Oslo. My cruise package includes drinks, wifi, one excursion, and one specialty restauant dinner. Tips still need to be charged. They also added the needed flights from America (Atlanta) to Amsterdam including shuttle services at both ends of the trip. Yes, will arrive in Amsterdam day prior to embarkation as you have advised. So, also a night in hotel there which they also arranged. I did use travel agency (that's a first for me as well). There little program includes providing $350 of credit to spend on ship (or get cash, but will save it for ship). I have to say this is a pretty expensive undertaking. Anyway, will sign up too for excursions and maybe some more dinning stuff when time comes (it is too soon at the moment). Anyway, thanks for you tips and wish my happy sailing! There is a lot to this, I will need the vacation just from planning this out!

[@suesmith5746]

I agree with all of your advice. Research about what is included what options there are is critical. However there are several destinations ,where only one or two lines go so the choice is how important that destination is vs can I adjust to the things I really do not like about that line.

[@krab1791]

I own membership in the Disney Vacation Club and have found that the Cruise Line is the best use. We started with our kids at 11 and 3 to the Caribbean. We went on their very first Mediterranean Cruise leaving on my daughter’s 15th birthday. Now both kids are adults and we have taken a cruise including my daughter’s significant other.. My husband and I have also gone on a cruise without the kids. As time has gone on, what we do and how we do it has changed. I like snorkeling so I book snorkeling for myself while the rest go on something else they all enjoy. When the kids were younger, our basic rule was that we would meet for dinner and shore excursions but other than that we could each do as we pleased. Disney caters to families so there are age appropriate activities for each age group. My daughter (at 15) wanted to be up partying with the friends she made. The teen club had end of day parties and after they were done, cruise staff didnt let them wander the ship. The one time they tried, a couple of staff members rounded them up and escorted them to their staterooms. We didnt have to stay up until midnight (or 1am or 2am) to make sure my daughter got in. Very much looking forward to our Christmas Cruise in mid-December.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great to hear how you managed things, sounds very sorted!!

[@Scott__C]

We're DVC member and use points for either cruises or Adventures. The parks require too much planning anymore.

[@realcdcruze3558]

We always look for sea days as we want a few days to lie in and order room service and just relax. To many excursions can make you tired and stressed as you are always planning your time.

[@tipsfortravellers]

So true! I agree!!

[@KBTCaseyFlynn]

Our favourite cruises are Transatlantic, Vancouver to/from Hawaii, and Hawaii to New Zealand as they have lots of sea days for relaxation and they tend to be much less expensive for the number of nights. Next year we’re booked on Vancouver to Tokyo with 9 sea days. I may become too relaxed.

[@TAP7a]

Got any favourite bits in particular on the Hawaii-NZ crossing? Any particularly interesting ports or otherwise? That’s a trip I’d love to do at some point

[@KBTCaseyFlynn]

@@TAP7a All of Tahiti. Magical. We just took local tour guides at each port there and they were every bit as good as ones booked on the ship.

[@anitahenriquez2082]

TransAtlántics are the best…even in dreary or rough weather. Fewer passengers, lazy days and usually great trivia games. Just had to cancel our November SilverSea crossing as the White House delayed announcement that non US citizens IF fully vaccinated could disembark in Ft Lauderdale from Europe. We had to make the decision or get stuck with a huge outlay and only future cruise credit. And it was three days before the White House decision. I am wondering who is going to be on those ships? Or they will sail empty??? Europeans? Americans?

[@KBTCaseyFlynn]

@@anitahenriquez2082 personally I like the rough weather. It’s exhilarating.

[@johnlyons1330]

I agree with you completely about sea days. I'd even say that I prefer a cruise where the first day is a sea day, especially on a port-intensive cruise. It really helps with the transition to a "vacation mindset", and gives one the opportunity to explore the ship fully.

[@COLINJELY]

My New Zealand cruise with Princess was 4 days Melbourne to Auckland, by the time we got there we were looking forward to going ashore

[@christymurphy6571]

I'm going on my 2nd ever cruise in Dec 21 SOLO. I'm sooo excited. The first cruise I went on was a Girls Trip with 2 ladies. I love my ladies but I did feel like I needed to do what they did. This time I can do what I want to do! 🤭 The next cruise will be with my hubby so I'll be doing what he wants to do since it will be his 1st cruise ever.

[@totallytania7978]

I'm going solo on Oasis on Oct. 3rd!!

[@jmr1703]

I cruise solo sometimes too. It's so nice to be able to do exactly what I want without asking for input. Helps me balance my tendency to please others. Plus, you meet some really nice people who you would not if you are traveling with others. I hung out with two people from the UK and an 89 year old fiesty lady who were traveling solo. I work upwards to 90 hours a week at times so when I take a cruise, it helps if I'm solo so I can rest and decompress.

[@christymurphy6571]

@@jmr1703 I work a lot too - mortgage industry - so getting some solo time is crucial to my mental health. First time I'm doing my solo trip on a cruise. So excited!

[@eminiarvii]

I cruise with friends and they are self reliant like I am, if we want to do something together we do, if we want to venture on our own, we do that to. If we were not so independent i would cruise solo also😊

[@richards.4116]

I've done 40 cruises over 25 years, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, MSC and Celebrity. Looking to try something a little different. We've not seen much in the review field on Regent Seven Seas in quite a while, you included. Considering Seaborn, Silverseas, RSSC, Viking. We love your comparisons. Any tips for Regent Seven seas or who its for. We're in our mid 60's.

[@tipsfortravellers]

I have only toured Regent ships but not yet cruised with them, but have friends who love them. They have very good food, service and although look expensive they do have lots of inclusions, like excursions. I am a big fan of the smaller ships and love Seabourn, Viking and Silversea. I Ama also a big fan of Oceania, so also take a look that them

[@richards.4116]

@@tipsfortravellers Thanks. Some prices look reasonable, so may give it a try. Same on the others. Already have 4 in the next 14 months booked.

[@crystalconnor4516]

A moms cruise ,that is so sweet❤️I hope my boys do that for me when they start cruising :).

[@barbaradoolin8856]

Did a cruise with mom alone and then one with me mom and my adult daughter. I also have done family & group cruises and included mom. Everyone is different with a different focus

[@lynnfranklin427]

When we do family cruises our only requirement is dinner. We love sharing our day and if sea day next day we go over who wants to do what but. No pressure

[@paulgerrard9227]

Lol...choosing cunard for a fun party time. Its conservative and likely filled with a older type. We found this issue in alaska. Most cruisers are older and off to bed early so a drink after 10 was a challenge. They mostly are up early binge eating the kilos on at 6am. Late dinner and show was always quiet. Not a fan of travel with other couples unless you all agree to do your own thing and if its the same choice then thats a exception.

[@JoeTourist]

I've booked a Vancouver-Hawai'i cruise to celebrate a significant birthday coming up next year. There are 5-6 sea days each way, with ports-of-call once in Hawai'i. Friends are also booked who, as it turns out, joined me on a previous identical cruise a few years ago! We found we enjoy the sea days, since it gives us time to relax, enjoy the shipboard offerings, and get into a bit of a routine. We get together for most dinners, and usually meet up sometime during the day, but we are not "joined at the hip", so we have lots of time to ourselves. As a solo traveller, I also enjoy cruising by myself, which eliminates some of the other gotchas you mention!

[@tipsfortravellers]

I so want to do that Hawaii itinerary!!!!

[@joanodean8313]

One of your best vlogs. So much helpful information. I saw myself in many of the examples.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@dakg8034]

Years ago when I took my first cruise, I scuffed at "sea days" simply because I am a "port" person who loves to enjoy what the locals onshore have to offer. But eventually I came to realize that "sea days" are the only time you get to completely explore the ship and all the onboard activities and entertainment; besides, it's the only time you get a chance to completely relax. And now, I love "sea days." I have always traveled with family (and/or friends) and we have one simple rule: Breakfast and dinner together, and other times, each decides (on a day by day basis) whether or not they wish to do something individually or collectively. And it works just fine.

[@ellenl.shepard-documentary7859]

Thanks for sharing your personal photos of your family. Lovely.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks :-)

[@silviaeaston]

I. Usually travel solo (83 cruises) and if someone is going to join me THE first thing I mentioned ion is that “we are not attached at the hip! I will let them know my general schedule and that I don’t mind them joining me. When my father “knew” his death was imminent he invited 3 of the grandkids on a cruise. Most likely told the TA “the best cruise line” well they went on a Cunard which is the wrong cruise to go on with 14 yos

[@maramash3196]

I was invited on my first cruise…Carnival. A floating nightmare. We were on the spa floor…nothing seemed clean…very rundown. Our balcony door wouldn’t stay closed so they taped it shut…therefore no balcony access. We were offered $200 toward our next cruise and a robe….Needless to say we never booked Carnival again. Looking into Regent, Cunard and Oceania.

[@jkconner9636]

Wow…taping the door shut would be a deal breaker for me. Which ship were you on? We’ve been lucky, 10 Carnival cruises & no issues so far. Had a noisy cable outside our room once but it was fixed the next day & we were given a bottle of champagne so no complaints.

[@maramash3196]

@@jkconner9636 We were given bathrobes and $200 toward our next cruise. Needless to say we never used the voucher.

[@janete1292]

Thank you 👍👍👏👏

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thank you too

[@grandmasmagic3858]

My very first cruise was to NZ. My friend from the States also chose that exact time to visit me in Australia. So I took her on our very first cruise ever with. It was a 2 for 1 deal I'd purchased so it was paid for anyway. On the cruise we did our own thing during the day on sea days only meeting up for getting ready/dinner/evening entertainment. We also did shore activities together BUT also went our own way in between those activities. Which meant we had something to talk about at the end of the day. Alas that wasn't the deal on my next cruise with my intellectually disabled brother. In the first hour he got lost cause he was to impatient to wait for me, this meant he was glued to my hip for the rest of the cruise. Thank God it was only 4 days and to Tasmania and back to Melbourne.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Oh dear.... I guess you never cruised with him again ;-)

[@javcarvao]

Another great video. Thanks Gary.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@hettytravels]

Great tips Gary. We like a sea day right away and again before we arrive back to the port. That first sea day is great for exploring the ship.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Totally agree

[@raulsanchez1026]

Hi gary question I want to know should I reserve a trip through the boat Cruise line or get a travel agent?

[@markt.3454]

It always comes down to doing your homework! Research, research, research! Get on the website, get on a cruise centered social-media site, find a few cruise vloggers you like and follow them. It's not that hard (we love it, it builds the anticipation) and makes all the difference!

[@tipsfortravellers]

agree!!!

[@zzzland1]

Good one, Gary. We enjoy a sea day on the last day of a cruise.

[@yusselfaveljl]

Nice points. Great advice. Thank you

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching !

[@eols2190]

Great tips Gary. Spot on.

[@maggiebee5261]

Your Mums look lovely! Thanks for the tips, Gary. I am pretty obsessive about researching our cruises (including watching your videos), and although we usually choose HAL, we have enjoyed every cruise. And yes, as we have gotten older, and the bucket list destinations are ticked, sea days are most welcome!

[@tipsfortravellers]

They are sweet :-) Good to hear my videos help :-)

[@ald8612]

Actually, after cruising for years, I enjoy sea days more than port days. Many times, if you've seen one port you've seen most all. Sure each port has some unique features/attractions but, many are just the same old thing, beaches, ruins, city tours, liquor/rum/tequila distilleries, bars/restaurants, old churches, whale watching, salmon fishing, snorkeling, jewelry stores and gift shops! I've seen/done them all.

[@chasityeverett3668]

I will tell anyone who says “I tried cruising once and hated it”that they didn’t pick the right cruise for them and need to research and try it a 2nd time. I can’t imagine why people assume all cruises/cruise lines are the same?

[@tipsfortravellers]

agree!!!

[@jmr1703]

Charity, I was one of those people. I think my biggest issue was not knowing what to expect on a cruise vacation and not knowing that cruiselines have their own personalities. Thanks to KZbin now, I get east access to tips and reviews to make better choices.

[@midwestkatie4]

We first cruised on NCL, then Carnival. We have found that Celebrity suits us best. Great topic! Keep trying until you find one you love.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Totally agree!

[@carolhearn2413]

I really liked and learned from this video. Enjoy your analysis of how problems can be avoided

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks, great to hear :-)

[@johndantzman3935]

Thanks for the great advice. It's a great idea to have a discussion about what you're going to do with your friends and family BEFORE the cruise.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@chuckvee6408]

I had B2B Azamara cruises in October where the port ending the first cruises and beginning the second was Venice. Shortly after Venice voted to ban cruise ships of the Azamara's class ship size and larger, Azamara changed the port to Pula, Croatia. Since one of the main interests in these cruises was Venice, having never been there (since a very young age), we chose to cancel and are looking for future alternative Azamara or other cruise line itineraries to Venice.

[@arikirsch8168]

A newlywed couple on Holland America??? Incredible... the average age is probably 75... Happy hour is 2 for 1 oxygen... We loved HAL because our daughter was the ENTIRE kids club so she had her own personal camp counselor. It is also very elegantly appointed with luxurious decor... We were young enough for Carnival but didn't want the "college kids drunk and vomiting by the pool" experience.. Carnival has upped their game recently and we intend to have quite a bit of fun on the new Mardi Gras.

[@lilbatz]

Your family is charming, Gary. Such lucky moms!💕

[@tipsfortravellers]

They are!

[@druegillis1744]

Just a couple of suggestions: Cruise as a couple if you can. Less people to please! If you do cruise with more people, make sure all are about the same age and share common interest. Multigenerational cruisers can work if everyone has realistic goals such as kids go one way, adults another and let the seniors do their own thing. For our 50th anniversary, we took our 3 generation family. Ground rules were: During the day, all were free to do their own activities. We all ate dinner together, then everyone was free to entertain themselves as they wanted. Have the talk BEFORE you book the cruise! That way, all know what is expected.

[@MadonnaGentle]

Love your shirt! Thank you for sharing in this video!

[@jdjeep98]

I LOVE sea days. I hope to be able to do a crossing before I'm too old. We just booked a Carnival cruise that stops at Greenland and Canada and starts right out with FIVE sea days! I'm so looking forward to that. I always told my wife that I'd be fine with a cruise that went out into the ocean and sailed in a big circle for a week. ;)

[@JohnnyFuturePast]

#2 is why I love cruising solo!!! My cruise my way no problems!!! Researching, I agree, is crucial! I’m so glad I like many different styles of cruising so I never get bored!

[@leesauer6695]

Hi Gary! I've watched almost all of your cruise Vlogs and enjoyed them very much. I've also found that (even though I've taken almost 50 cruises over the years) I almost always learn something new from each and every one of them. I'm one of those people who've discovered what they like and value in a cruise line and, as a result, have had only a small handful of unhappy cruises. (I also am someone who researches a cruise line or itinerary to DEATH before hand (something that has become SO much easier in recent years because of the internet). I think what you had to say in this particular outing was especially apt and true. Not every cruise line will work for every person; I really believe that virtually everyone can find a cruise line that works well for them, but you have to put in the effort up front. One thing you didn't mention, but can be extremely helpful (especially for new cruisers) is the advice of a good travel agent who focuses on cruising. When I was booking my very first cruise, I'd found a bargain price on an itinerary that sounded attractive and took it to a travel agent to book. She talked with me for about half an hour and steered me away from this bargain into a somewhat more expensive line, but one that was going to be a much better fit. I'm absolutely certain that if I'd taken that bargain basement cruise, I'd have been absolutely miserable and would never have cruised again. That good advice sent me to a line (and on an itinerary) that was a perfect fit for my interests and personality, and I've been cruising regularly ever since. I also agree with your take on sea days. In fact, I discovered on that first cruise that I enjoyed the sea days more than the port days, and have focused on cruises that are sea-day-heavy. In fact, one of my favorite cruises of all time was an 11-day transpacific cruise from Tokyo to Vancouver without a single port. Everyone is different, and what I like won't necessarily be what you'll like, but I'm pretty sure that there's a cruise out there that will please almost everyone. So, many thanks for all the entertaining and informative programs (or should I say programmes) you've given to all of us who watch you!

[@samantha1877]

You make your own fun...

[@sherylcrawford8201]

My favorite part of a cruise are the sea days. I enjoy them more than excursions. I play bingo, join in the trivia games and bring my knitting. Total relaxation.

[@Mrfrontrow]

Love your ideas and analysis of cruising. My wife and I have been on 13 or 14 cruises over the past 25 years and can honestly say we have never had a bad cruise. Some we have liked better than others. But liked them all!! When we were younger we loved carnival for the party atmosphere. But, now that we belong to a more "mature" (LOL) demographic, we like Celebrity the best. Next month (OCT.) we will be going on our first Holland America Line cruise and next year in April will do our first trans-Atlantic on the QM2. Looking forward to doing a comparison. Regarding sea days. I absolutely love sea days. So relaxing. I love just being out on the ocean and watching the waves go by. The sun and the clouds. Sometimes I nap on a lounge chair, read or go for a long walk around the deck several times. It's the best.

[@texasboy5117]

Wiser words could not have been spoken! We are retired and want an elegant quite small ship with good food and classical music. (Holland America and Viking). Our grand children would consider this kind of vacation child abuse. Put a lot of time and planning into the trip and it’s worthwhile.

[@lizcademy4809]

Before I started watching cruise channels, I thought all cruises were giant floating party resorts. Not my thing, so I decided cruises were not for me. I don't know why I started watching, but I zeroed in on Gary, also Rich and Helen. And I learned how many types of cruises there are ... and there is one for me! Saving my pennies for a cruise on a floating history museum ... Viking.

[@robfelts8076]

Mum cruises. God bless you both!

[@markeaston7353]

Thanks Gary some very handy and timely tips there. We are planning our first extended family cruise and I like your suggestion of a pre cruise meeting to correlate preferences and expectations.

[@COLINJELY]

P&O Australia is like being at a Billy Butlin Holiday Camp!

[@howardchud9097]

I always enjoy your insights but have yet to see two areas being covered: 1. What if you don’t drink. How do you sit in the bar listening to music? 2. What do people who need to refrigerate their medications do with their medicines?

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks. On the first, you can sit anywhere there is live music and enjoy anything (coffee, cocktail, soft drink or nothing ) and that is all fine and on the second, most cabins have a fridge in (which may or may not based on the line be stocked as a mini-bar) but of not you can ask for one for medicines. It is good idea to double check there is one (the amenities list on the website will usually confirm)

[@terrifromm5085]

I agree. Research is imperative in choosing the right ship/itinerary, etc. Another excellent video.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@louiseogden1296]

My mum is desperate to come on a cruise with me (because my dad won't take her) but given we're very different in our tastes and lifestyles it would be murder. Probably quite literally. And you're right about sea days. I actually prefer them -- because a lot more is open if you're not stopped in port and subject to a particular tax regime. Even if you don't get off the ship, you can't wander round the shops and there is a pressure to get off and do stuff in port. In Tallinn or Oslo that might be no problem. In Zeebrugge (if you're not going to Bruges) not so much. (Blankenburg loses its appeal on the second or third trip, mostly because it shares an atmosphere and a climate with Skegness). Also, part of the appeal of cruising for me is definitely about the boat itself and the smell of the sea and feeling like you're in a floating hotel rocking on the waves. Having been brought up using car ferries every holidays to get to either France or Ireland, I was so used to floating around the place that being on a cruise while actually at sea was liberating. (Sadly my husband didn't share my love of a stiff breeze as we left port, and we were joined at the hip while he was alive, so I can now go on deck when I please...but it won't be the same in other ways without him.)

[@patpeters6331]

@Louise Ogden. You're probably right about not cruising with your mom. My mom & I went to Nashville for 5 days. On the plane ride home we didn't sit near each other & never mentioned Nashville! I hear it can be a fun town but that wasn't my experience. We took several trips together because we were both alone. Though my mom could ruin a trip faster than a tornado ripping thru town, I am glad that we went, especially since she's passed away. Now when I tell the stories of the trips from hell, I chuckle at her obstinate ways.

[@kathyazzarito5950]

Great suggestion regarding group/couple cruising. Best to talk first before the cruise and set the ground rules.

[@laureljaneg]

I research the heck out of cruising before I go! Looked at every train excursion in Akaska picked the perfect one and that cruise got cancelled. I don’t understand not reading all the information available, I want to be prepared!!

[@tipsfortravellers]

agree!!! I am with you on that

[@dougpettey7144]

One of your best! Really appreciate the family photos. They added dimension to your words. Your presentations from cabins where you are actually cruising have a similar impact. Great work!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for the feedback, great to hear these work! Always trying to do new things to see how people feel about them, so feedback is very helpful

[@savinajeffcoat640]

Very good advice. I not only listen to many of your videos but I also join the Facebook chat rooms for my ship and ports.

[@travelingwithmikeandpam9074]

Totally spot on!!! In every case I totally agree. I love having at least 1 sea day.

[@calumshaw7905]

Sea days! Can't beat them, it is a cruise holiday after all. Good vlog Gary, as always however with your suggestion of mixing cruise lines you failed to mention a reason to stick with one, for extended periods of time. That is to move up the pecking order of the loyalty plans. We started cruising in 2017 and have completed 11 but are striving for 15 so that we move onto the top tier; why you ask. Because the cruise lines release booking opportunities to the top tier many days before we plebs. It seems our preferred staterooms are taken long before the cruise goes public. By the way Gary, 2021 Princess Cruises out of Australia have now been cancelled altogether and won't start from Sydney until March and Brisbane from February 2022. We've used our FCC and Bonus on the first one out Brisbane on the Coral princess but now have the additional costs of having to fly from Sydney return to join the cruise, but we'll do anything to get back on board. The NZ cruise has six out of 14 as sea days, love it!

[@stephenwalker7750]

I absolutely agree with you about knowing what your cruise includes and does not include. Just look at the Facebook groups that people set up for a particular ship or cruise. I am amazed at the questions people ask just days before they are about to set sail.