9 CRUISE SECRETS They Don't Want You to Know

[@LifeWellCruised]

🌟Find shore excursions with Shore Excursions Group: www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/?id=1422218

[@vap57]

I have only seen Cruise Line credit cards for Americans. Are there any available for Canadians?

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@vap57 unfortunately I haven’t seen any. I do have a Marriott bonvoy card (AE) for hotel points, but no cruise lines to my knowledge

[@briansteeves8854]

@@vap57 celebrity has no credit card for Canadians

[@brianv4100]

Love the way you can search for just the excursions that are available for your exact cruise, no jumping from screen to screen to see if the time and date work out 😎

[@rosshageman951]

This is a great website. I checked our cruise for this summer and will book with Shore Excursions

[@carlosbr2057]

If gratuities are mandatory on cruises, it should be required by law to include them in the cruise price, just like any tax. This would eliminate any confusion about the actual cost of a cruise.

[@jeffreyclinard2002]

I'd only support that if it was a fireable offense for a crew member to accept a tip.

[@williamwatson689]

All that is needed to achieve requiring gratuities to be included in the advertised price is to have an aggressive attorney take this on. That is exactly what happened in California that changed advertised cruise prices to include taxes and port charges. Then, the cruise lines were forced to do this in all states because advertising is not state specific. Attorney's, please step up.

[@caliantoni1833]

Would be nice, but gratuities are optional.

[@lightwarrior432]

@@caliantoni1833 If you can’t afford to Tip, just like going to a restaurant on land, You don’t need to go on a Cruise. The Staff needs those Tips.

[@jeffreyclinard2002]

@ I keep hoping companies will wise up and just not deal with California residents. There is no reason they should export their craziness and bind the rest of us.

[@sf3413]

I love that you bring up not stressing about doing carry-on only. My husband and I are former military and it is very easy and comfy for us. BUT!!!! There is no trophy for this kind of packing and so many end up miserable because they don't have things they really want or need. If it's easy, hoorah. If it's hard, pack a checked bag. Both ways have plenty of benefits and each person has different preferences.

[@campsiegrothendieck7857]

Agree! We always check a suitcase on the flight. The price is the same and we can pack everything we want. No fighting for an overhead bin either. I never understand why people don't just pack whatever they might need. Then you have it.

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@sf3413 totally agree! I know for some people trying to pack carry on only is an extra stress. Also, some people take one vacation a year and want to dress up each night and change outfits during the day. Why not?

[@kerrychabot]

@@LifeWellCruisedthis is me! A cruise is a luxury item for us, as I’m our primary income in a self-employed, physical job (so a week away=zero pay). I dress up EVERY night, because at home I very very rarely get to.

[@ribbons4acostcancer352]

@@kerrychabot Wearing scrubs entire year.. So, I dressed up well when on vacay, enjoyed dressing up and planning the outfit. Packing stress is normal to me but got to carry what I want. My friends will be handling my 70 lbs luggage for this coming for Greece Cruise… lol, she is a frequent flyer at United airlines.

[@patti1044]

I am of the basic capsule wardrobe and traveling with carryon do we can easily manage our luggage for the land portion/train travel we include on our trips.

[@anne-marievr5710]

I’m so happy that somebody finally acknowledges that there is no trophy for packing carry on only. Canadian airlines now charge for that luggage anyway. My husband and I are now each checking a bag and it is so nice to board the plane with just a backpack!!!!!

[@jeneeinscho61]

Me too!! I’m using this line on my husband next time he says something about my checked bag😂

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@jeneeinscho61 haha!!!

[@elisaastorino2881]

American airlines are following suit. They'll find any way to gouge us.

[@meddyven]

Ilana, The moment I meet my cabin steward,I am impressed, that many have a little paper notebook, that they use to write down all the requests per cabin. This makes me happy, seeing their attention to detail, and also gets them a better tip.

[@kerrychabot]

Agreed!! On my Husband’s first cruise, we met our cabin Stewart the first day. I told her we absolutely LOVE towel animals, as I had told my Husband about them & how cute they are! She made sure that we had one waiting for us EVERY day! We were beyond thrilled! I have a digital frame of our trip, & you’d better believe, every single towel animal is there!! We made sure to definitely tip her extra for going above & beyond!🥰🥰🥰

[@deannab.5614]

I would like to commend you for suggesting not limit myself to a carryon only. My husband and I will be flying into Miami from Texas for our cruise in May. We have always packed a carry on only when flying but not now! AA frequent flyer perk includes a free checked bag anyway. Also, we booked a flight a day before the cruise per your tip mentioned in a previous video. Great job your videos are always presented very well and to the point.

[@happycruiser]

Cruise air - started at a ticket for $859 and by the time I had to pay for it, had changed 6 times and finally only had to pay $359. Just keeping checking...I did on almost a daily basis.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing your experience

[@littleshedevl]

Going on my first cruise in less than a month. I’ve watched so many of your videos in the past several months to prepare. It’s so much to remember but I’m going to make sure I don’t get overwhelmed

[@Beefree4ever]

Her tips are very helpful. Just remember to be patient and have fun. Happy cruising.

[@littleshedevl]

@ thank you!

[@lindabradford9591]

Ilana is who i watched for our 1st cruise and we were well prepared. We fly down the day before the cruise and fly home the day after, just in case.

[@travelwithchopsticks8982]

Remember the most important thing is to relax and have fun.

[@genitagray6126]

Ilana’s videos are the best! I’ve been on 20+ cruises & here’s a few tips I’ve learned. Pack what you want, remove 1/2 & you’ll still not wear everything you packed. With each cruise you’ll learn something new. On my last cruise I didn’t get to pack ahead of time so I ended up with a suitcase & two carry on bags. There is a lot of walking & I regretted having to juggle all of those bags. People on here stress about formal night but on the cruise, ppl do what they want. Carry small amounts of OTC meds “just in case”. I carry Ibuprofen, Alka-Seltzer, Tums, Emetrol tabs ( the liquid leaks) Benadryl & Goody’s. On the older ships these items aren’t always available & who wants to spend their time hunting for things? If you booked a balcony, order danish & coffee to be delivered early in the morning so you can wake up on the balcony before it’s time to get ready to go eat your real breakfast. I fill my knock off yeti (22oz) with coffee & put everything I want in it, instead of filling & refilling those small cups. I then take it with me to eat breakfast & I don’t have to stand in line like the others at the buffet. Enjoy your cruise… they’re addicting!

[@QueenKayKay47]

The trophy for packing carry- on only, is no lost luggage or waiting at that carousel for an additional 45 minutes 🤣

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@QueenKayKay47 lol that’s a good point

[@enigmus42]

No only that, but you can also have a huge gain in mobility. We use soft-sided luggage with straps and no wheels - we carry it. We started doing carry-on only with an around-the-world train trip nine years ago and we've never looked back. Last month we did two weeks in Europe and walked about 25 miles carrying luggage, by choice, as we like to walk. We're both nearing 70. But for each, his/her own.

[@QueenKayKay47]

@enigmus42 very true✅

[@reillydog11]

*my SIL travels with us, and she doesn’t get the drink package. She brings on her bottle of wine and we each bring one for her. She simply opens it in her cabin, pours a glass and brings it with her to the bar, or MDR. We get the premium package, and our sommelier on the last cruise just filled her glass along with ours each pour!

[@ajqueen31]

My husband and I used to always travel with carry-on only just to avoid the long travel and waits for getting the checked bags from the luggage carousel. Now we have a toddler and this'll be our 1st cruise with a 3rd so we are definitely bringing a checked bag- little kids come with too much stuff!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Totally get that! Cruising with little ones is a whole different ballgame

[@bethanyaudion9441]

On Princess Cruises you can request Continental Breakfast Door Hanger Menus, from you stateroom steward, that you can fill out and put on your outer doorknob between dinner time and a certain time late at night, when they pick them up.

[@tobiebrave]

I love packing in a carry on and I never regret it. It allows me to not wait for luggage in the airport at both ends of the trip, carry off at the end and be on my way, and prevents having to hunt for my luggage in the terminal. If necessary there is laundry and worse comes to worse I can buy clothes.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing your experience

[@tamborambo2957]

I agree 💯. And I don’t have to worry about losing my luggage either. It’s actually less stressful for me, which is awesome. 😎

[@nancyvos7736]

I so agree with your packing comments Ilana. People should think about the fact that - unlike at home - you will probably change several times a day some days.

[@LifeWellCruised]

so true

[@deannab.5614]

Totally agree! I did not realize that on my first cruise with young grandkids (1 and 3) and should have packed more! Lots of spontaneous jumping in and out of pools and hot tubs. This cruise my husband and I will be celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary. I will be packing several cocktail dresses, heels and sparkly jewelry.

[@thepianoappraiser]

Also check Airbnb in your port of call! They have what they call experiences and we’ve had some awesome encounters with locals doing excursions that way 👍

[@tk6239]

absolutely recommend the complimentry riomservice breakfast. It was awesome to set on the deck and sip my 1st cup of coffee.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I love the complimentary room service on cruise ships!

[@GeorgeNeeds2Travel]

Helpful information, Ilana thank you. Although recently we booked on Princess and found the price dropped substantially. Even though we were five months out, the representative would not honor the new price. Instead, we had to cancel and rebook. It was such a waste of time we decided to go with a different cruise line. I know that the price has since dropped twice more. The lesson I learned is that with Princess wait till the final payment to make your booking.

[@LifeWellCruised]

It’s frustrating but some promotions can be new bookings only :(

[@melodeekistner2936]

One other usually complimentary food venue is afternoon tea. This often happens on sea days and we have found it to be a fun afternoon event.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That's a great one!

[@anngratton1855]

Hubby and I have done the room service continental breakfasts on our last two cruises and we really like it. It is filling and convenient and a good way to avoid over eating at breakfast which we are prone to do at the buffet😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

That sounds like a great way to start your day!

[@LeoHamilton-k2p]

One heads-up on booking excursions through third parties… we booked a shore excursion with Paddywagon Tours in Dublin through Viator. Our ship couldn’t tender cruisers ashore due to weather and cancelled the stop. Neither Paddywagon Tours nor Viator would refund our payment even though it was through no fault of our own. Also our annual Allianz cruise insurance wouldn’t cover it either. So, there is a potential downside to booking through third parties vs through the cruise line which refunds all cancelled tour funds.

[@KerryBeavers]

I had a similar experience although I booked directly with Viator. The captain announced at 7 that morning that we could not tender in Dublin. Viator requires 24 hours notice to cancel an excursion, so I was out that money. I knew it was a possibility, but I took the chance and lost. I still used Viator on my next cruise though.

[@JohnLittleJr]

Cruise Air is great. My flight to the departure city was delayed landing by storms so long that the ship provided transportation was waiting for just my wife and me. At the dock we were the last two to check in and the last to get on the ship. It was held on port for two people. I found it incredible and even if there is extra cost it will be the only way I fly to a cruise departure.

[@heathermanly7188]

We booked a massage at out local much cheaper spa the day before we left for our cruise. Then we did not book anything at the more expensive spa on the ship. Not exactly the same as getting your massage on the ship but we still felt that it was part of our trip and we saved some money.

[@williamwatson689]

Attorney's, please step up and get the law changed to make gratuities part of the advertised price. A similar law was passed in 2023/2024 that forced cruise lines to include taxes and port charges in California advertising. Then the cruise lines all were forced to comply in all states because advertising is not state specific.

[@Nrustica]

Destination cruises are where it's at. Also pick a fun departure port and spend a couple of nights there as well.

[@LifeWellCruised]

agree

[@tyhuber7651]

Please clarify what a destination cruise is. Doesn't every cruise have a destination (or several?) Marketing language, I imagine.

[@gennesamann4323]

I think that if you are booking your flights with the cruise lines, I think those monies spent should be included as monies you have spent on your cruise to increase your stars that you earn each cruise. We found that their flights are much more expensive!

[@terriebzumbalover]

Good Afternoon! Decided to check in because I missed watching your videos🎉

[@TheAirplanewoman]

I love you and your channel. I have my first cruise ever in March and I’ve been watching ALL your videos. They are so helpful.

[@tuliomeza1]

It’s great that you are researching cursing. So many people go on cruises are not prepared. Most Important Cruise Tips 1) If you have time before your cruise, always use passports when traveling internationally. Never rely solely on birth certificates even if you are allowed to do so on a cruise. You never know what emergency may arise. What if someone in your party gets sick or injured, so you have to disembark in another country? How will you get onto a plane to get back home without a passport? Not too long ago, an NCL ship ran aground and everyone had to disembark at a foreign port. All the passengers without passports were scrambling to get emergency passports so they could fly home. 2) Get good trip insurance for each member of your party that includes medical care and medical evacuation that covers the countries you will be visiting, and specifically includes cruise coverage. Usually the plan offered by the cruise line is not sufficient. You don’t want to be stuck in a foreign hospital that refuses to treat you or refuses to let you leave without payment. 3) If flying to your cruise embarkation point, always arrive the day before (at the latest) and stay in a hotel. Air travel can be unpredictable particularly with computer outages, bad weather, etc.

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@TheAirplanewoman yay! So glad the video is helpful to you as a first time cruiser :)

[@jaimiverhey5728]

We try to always sail out of a city that allegiant flies to. Not only do we have a straight flight, but my husband is a veteran and allegiant gives military priority ticketing and boarding. Also 2 free checked bags up to 100 pounds!! And 1 free carry on. We can pack the whole family in those suitcases. And we do.

[@nancycrawford9584]

Heading out early am for western Caribbean, I booked our 3 excursions with Shore Excursion Group. Excited!

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome! Have an amazing cruise!

[@murlthegirl1446]

Thanks for the info...love your content.

[@jemezfun9767]

Thanks for the great tips. Our first cruise departs 3/1 (delayed honeymoon) on Celebrity Equinox in a concierge veranda cabin. Yesterday we drove 15-minutes to Port Canaveral to check her out from the dock. So excited 🎉

[@LifeWellCruised]

Sounds like a great start to your honeymoon! Enjoy 🙂

[@HustleBeastComing]

I love Your Content Thank You

[@_echobravo]

I'd say that to go along with the continuing to check prices (which is a great tip), always booking through a travel agent is key. They often have the access to implement a price change without you having to contact the cruise line yourself. Also, you'll never pay more for booking with a travel agent than directly with the cruise line.

[@theresa4444]

Unfortunately I have NEVER had a travel agent be able to add any additional value to anything I have wanted to book.

[@colleenbarsin725]

Thanks so much for the great tips! I ordered the Ultimate Cruise Planner and it has really helped with the organization and planning of my next cruise.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad you found it helpful! Thanks for your purchase & feedback 😊

[@judis4900]

Great tips! The only time I booked the flight with the cruise line was when our family of 12 all flew in for a cruise. I specifically asked that my mother and mother in law (both in their 80's) fly with my husband and me because they needed wheelchair assistance. When we got our flights, everyone from the same city was travelling on the same flight - EXCEPT the two mothers who required a companion!! They had them alone on a different flight. I called to get it changed and they would not budge and we ended up paying an additional 2,000 to change their flights. Never again.

[@robinmci67]

I don't trust anyone else to book my airline travel, choose the dates, fare price, etc.

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@judis4900 oh no!! That’s terrible

[@hollyvanhecke9280]

We enjoy Viking ocean cruises and pay everything upfront. Once on board no surprises or worries.

[@kma9292]

Great tips, great video. Thankyou. Please keep the videos coming.

[@jp1087]

There are both positives and negatives to booking with shorex group. The good thing is that the cost is sometimes better than going though the cruise line, and there are more options to choose from. The downside is you really don't know what kind of charter quality you're going to get, even if you book the same excursion two different times. We booked the same exact snorkeling excursion in Cabo twice through shorex. The first time it was great, but this year it completely sucked.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I imagine that can happen with the cruise line too, but it’s good for SEG to know in the review or survey

[@tgstanleyfineart]

I may have overlooked it, but I would like to see a video that shows the items that are at 'top of the list' of your cruises so far by favorite & value. Top destination you've been to - favorite overall & best value. I'm more interested in what gives you the most for the money - not necessarily cheapest. But I'm sure others will be looking for the best overall. My thoughts are cruise line, room type with included amenities across all cruise lines, entertainment onboard, main dining food, buffet food, etc.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Love your thoughts on this! Yes I agree, value over lowest price paid is my motto too

[@GygaxGirl]

We just got back from a trip on the Celebration. We had a nice time if you take the flights out of the equation. Since we live far from ports and can't get there without flying, this will be my last cruise-until we move south someday. Thanks for your videos.

[@clarkjeschke3344]

An important point is if you get in touch with others in these cruise groups, never share your personal info, booking number etc with the group

[@jfminton54]

Great tips. I look forward to your videos. Always helpful to new or old cruisers ❤

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@jfminton54 thanks for watching!

[@heideleskun1163]

We LOVE Shore Excursion Group. Felt really comfortable with them and my Travel Agent checked them out and made sure they were licensed, insured and a deep dive into background. lol She's more picky than I am. Oh We never take the bottle out of the cabin, unless we are playing cards on lido with our family and I always have a bottle opener. Just put it in ether a wine glass in the room or I've put it in my Yeti if I don't have a glass You can also ask your room steward or one of the bars if you can have a wine glass. I've done that before. We go outside so the buys can have their cigars.

[@LovingAlmostEveryLine]

Great tips!

[@stevebyrne5048]

Love having breakfast on our veranda

[@beckyholub7467]

This was So Helpful! We are planning our first cruise ever on the Mediterranean and this is such great advice. Thank you

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@beckyholub7467 what a great cruise!

[@kellyeller]

On my recent Royal Caribbean cruise I got the drink package and it included the gratuities! I did not have to double tip.

[@deannab.5614]

You are correct, same experience!

[@theresa4444]

Want to start by saying I LOVE your channel..your posts are always so informative and relatable. Regarding the cruise credit cards, have you ever had an issue getting a cruise credit card because you are a Canadian? Thx

[@mariamoore7031]

I just booked a Shore Excursions Group tour in Bermuda when we go a transatlantic cruise in March.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome! That cruise sounds great btw, love Bermuda 🇧🇲

[@tuliomeza1]

RE: Secret 5 Don’t stress about overpacking: It’s true that cruise lines don’t have the same rules and limitations on luggage amount and weight that airlines do. Yes, but people still need to get from their homes to the cruise embarkation port. Often that’s via airplane.

[@KamaHeleKai]

I don't do carry-on only for a cruise. I put those large tubes of suntan lotion, or whatever in a checked bag for the plane. There is no issue bringing it aboard the cruise ship. No issue with bringing it on the flight.

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@tuliomeza1 as I mentioned, I don’t advise people overpack, just that some people really stress about this. People should always pack in a way that works best for them

[@Barry-k4c]

Ask for a kettle for self made tea or coffee etc..

[@danielsawdyjr.3642]

Great timing! 3 days til we sail.

[@maryjanekolesar8325]

We've found that the cruiseline air is more expensive, with most often made up of red eyes; also, they seem obtuse to the day before fly in with arrival at sail away time!!! Thanks for the tip because Shorex is overpriced. The line for added gratuity on the bar tab really annoys my husband; kind of sneaky if you don't know about the included! Yes, price check has saved us thousands ❤

[@deannab.5614]

I also found a much better deal on my own including upgraded seat with more leg room.

[@nanaclaus]

I've never price checked my booked cruises how often should we price check it?

[@jameskelly9243]

With NCH CC added $700 to my cruise spending credit.just by charging

[@ruthkringle1353]

Going on a solo cruise in a few months. Got a great deal and location.

[@Reneemfenn]

❤ Love that spot on (ASL) number 3 hand gesture!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Is it? It's honestly just how I am used to doing it

[@MissLauraSquared]

7:55 When I went on the NCL Jewel in June 2023, each passenger was only allowed to have one suitcase at a max of 50 pounds. (People in the Haven could have two suitcases per person, each no more than a max of 50 pounds.) You could bring additional bags that were the size of a personal item, but they did put a cap on luggage for that Alaskan cruise as far as suitcases went. I’m not sure if this rule was enforced or not, but it was definitely in the documentation/emails NCL sent us.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing. It’s a recommendation on many cruise lines. I’ve never seen it enforced, but that’s a good point. We have to keep in mind the crew carrying them, so over 50 pounds may be an issue

[@sherryprice214]

Just booked whale watching excursion for our September cruise with Shore Excursions Group! Thanks for sharing this and I feel so much better knowing they guarantee ship return. Thanks for your great videos and info!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s going to be an amazing excursion! So glad this was helpful

[@WiseWomanLola]

Crusing in 2 weeks!

[@deannab.5614]

Hello have really enjoyed your videos since subscribing last year. I am curious as to whether you have ever critiqued specific ports/port excursions? Doing a western Caribbean cruise in May on Celebrity. I am definitely checking the Shore Excursion Group, THANK YOU for the suggestion and link.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great question. I’ll be doing more port videos this year

[@Lovinlife0101]

We used Shore Excursions on disembarkation in Barcelona and they were fantastic! They picked us up at the cruise terminal and after the tour, dropped us off at our hotel. I would highly recommend them.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad you had a great experience with them! Thanks for sharing

[@ChristiRamares]

Curious - about to go on Celebrity for the first time - would you have been charged the corkage fee if you had your personal bottle of wine in your cabin? Thanks for the heads up about the dining room!

[@LifeWellCruised]

No, and also had I poured my wine into a glass in my cabin :)

[@Sangria38]

Getting ready to cruise on Sun Princess. I continue to be asked to bid for an upgrade, could you please address this in the future, is bidding worthwhile, and when is the best time to bid? Thank you.

[@DH-qz2so]

Flew Vancouver to L.A. Port to catch a cruise... with our Toilletries weighing a ton, for a 2.5 week Panama Canal trip, we thought it would be a good idea, to buy all our toilletries in port, the day prior to embarkation, in L.A. ,so that our suitcases didn't weigh over our 50 Lb. limit... Oh my goodness... the cost of all our items, plus the dollar exchange... was so very expensive! Hundreds of dollars!

[@cherylstaley1233]

Thank you Great video

[@briansteeves8854]

cruise line air you have the choice of what day and time you leave your home

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@briansteeves8854 I love when they do. Unfortunately some cruise lines don’t offer this

[@elisaastorino2881]

Not always. Some lines don't give you any choice at all.

[@travelwithchopsticks8982]

On carnival, they used to give you unlimited entrees in the main dining room but now it's limited to 2 and you would have to pay 5 dollars extra for an additional entree. We used to eat like 20 lobsters on formal night and now we only eat 10 😂. 8 extra entrees is 40 bucks plus the service charge but it's still a good deal eating 10 lobsters for 40 bucks.

[@VancouverBorn]

This is exactly why they put a limit on it.

[@travelwithchopsticks8982]

@VancouverBorn Sorry if we ruined it for everyone. We are known as game changers. 😂

[@carinolsson5544]

WTF????

[@teleensantillan3947]

On my first cruise we were told by restaurant staff that we could not take food to our room as they have room service for that.

[@robinwyllie2198]

When was your first cruise? Which line? My mother had cancer on our last cruise and frequently did not feel like going to the dining room or dealing with the buffet. My daughter and I took meals to her in the cabin several times.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That could be. It’s not typical though for most cruise lines

[@angiehafer8021]

I have had amazing independent shore excursions. But what I like to do is leave a copy of my excursion on my cabin desk just in case something happens so the cruise line has a start point of what we were doing that day. Better safe then sorry. Again some of my Best excursions have been cheaper and sometimes better then what's offered thru the cruiseline.

[@stevebartley628]

The NCL credit card is good for purchases that are for the cruise since you get 3 points per dollar spent, worth 3 cents, but regular purchases just get 1 point worth 1 cent. Many other travel cards have points that are worth more than 1 cent. So I only use my NCL credit card for the cruise.

[@eminiarvii]

I really like shore excursions group. , This upcoming cruise i used shore excursions group, princess excursions and Viator.🚢🙂

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awesome!!

[@beckyshinlever5142]

The only problem with a roll call you are letting people know when you are not going to be home 🏡. So be careful.

[@ronieelise6143]

Thank you! Great vid! Question: are there any advantages to booking directly with the cruise line vs. booking with an agent such as CruiseWeb?

[@LifeWellCruised]

There are few advantages, in my opinion, to booking directly. It will never be cheaper. Cruise travel agencies provide service, and even an extra perk on some bookings. MEI Travel is a no fee service & they price check for you & we love using them! Here’s a link to check them out or get a quote: www.shoreexcursionsgroup.com/?id=1422218

[@annabillings8889]

Hi Ilana, Love watching you. I'm hooked on Cruising a after only one cruise. Sun Princess was absolutely lovely and so much fun Anna B

[@lorijennings8628]

We did our first cruise July 2024 on princess discovery to Alaska. We came home booked hawaii for this spring and new england fall on 2025 also with princess, we are hooked

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad to hear that you had a great cruise! Sun Princess is a beautiful ship. It’s interesting, because there are differences with other ships decor & feature wise, but most are still going to be really good cruise vacations 👏

[@tamborambo2957]

So glad to hear that! We’re taking a Sun Princess cruise to Italy and Spain in July. I can’t wait🥳

[@Nadiagjq]

We're going on Odyssey of the seas for March Break! Our first cruize! Thank you for all the tips! I've got a questions about those drink package. We will be six people (4 adults, 2 kids) can we get 2 drink package and use it for all 6? Can you order 2 drinks at the bar for two different people or does every one have to get a drink package each?

[@Nadiagjq]

I should mention, I don't think each of us will drink 15 drinks a day...or 15 soft drinks a day for the kids (I don't know what kind of drink package there are for kids lol) so we were going to not take any package...but if a drink package is for the whole family then....that might be a different story...

[@lorijennings8628]

We have the princess cc great benefits. Pay your cruise in full.on the card, get travel insurance for free. Use credits to pay the credit balance use credits to pay for things on the ship, such as shops, additional fees for things with a charge on the ship.

[@bethsilcox727]

I’m booked on Royal Caribbean in May and had the option of booking airfare through them (RC sent me an email a few weeks after I booked through my travel agent and offered me the chance to book Airfare through them), I checked out their cost vs me booking airfare on my own and believe it or not they were cheaper. Thus I booked through them. However, I agree with you that this is not usually the case. And, yes, I was able to pick my own flights..

[@kimberlyrheault8086]

With the price match would this include third party booking such as cheap cruises?

[@harlanabraham7772]

Howdy Iiana, Subscribed and hit the like button. My wife and I used to order a complimentary breakfast early or I'd get some coffee and Danishes which we would have pre breakfast. Never stress about packing. A couple of trips we packed too much and on others packed too little. Ah, you had a bottle of Chianti. Very good wine, from Tuscany, Italy. Prefer older cruise ships. Many times my wife made a meal of appetizers. Have gotten upgrades and OBC.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for the tips!

[@emmamcintyre6997]

Are you not allowed now to go to Guest Services on the first day and ask for the Gratuities to be taken off and then you can tip your cabin stewards at the end of the trip?

[@wendyolumagin1104]

It’s best to ask on the day you board. Just tell them you’ll pay your gratuity at the end of the cruise. That’s what I am going to do when I leave at the end of January.

[@LifeWellCruised]

You can on most cruise lines

[@alvalantine]

I find Viator has many more options for shore excursions then Shore Excursions group. And viator is just as cheap if not better.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great to hear your experience. I like the back to ship guarantee with SEG, but Viator is another independent option

[@ex8722]

I like the extra bag... BUT I did take a two vacation in Hawaii. I island hopped between them. I booked separate flights so I would've had to pay 50 bucks per bag per leg. 3 or 4 hops. So it can save a lot of money. Especially if there is a laundry place . I've never used laundry on a cruise ahip.

[@Be20forlife]

Where and what was the excursion u did in st Thomas to St. John?

[@sylvaindupuis5595]

Concerning Price Check, today I saved 135$ CDN per person for a cruise in September. I saw the price drop 2 days ago, but I was busy so I didn't call right then and yesterday, the price had gone up again to near what I paid. Today the price was down again and I called (RC). I was on the phone for about 20 minutes and saved 270$ CDN, well worth the time. But, you have to check the price regularly, prices may varry from day to day.

[@brendabates2831]

Do most balcony rooms have a coffee table large enough for a 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle😮 approximately 18 by 20? Or is it a crap shoot?

[@LifeWellCruised]

I don’t think so

[@carlosbr2057]

Gratuities on cruises are always added to the bill or prepaid in packages, forcing passengers to request removal if they disagree. This practice, influenced by U.S. tipping culture, clashes with most countries where tips are voluntary and service workers earn fair wages. In places like Japan, tipping is even seen as insulting, as excellent service is standard. Automatically charging gratuities turns a reward for good service into an awkward obligation.

[@SpookyEng1]

I agree, they should be included in the base price. Raise the wages by the tip amount.

[@elisaastorino2881]

I agreed until you blamed American culture for the situation. I've noticed that Europeans and Australians in particular love to bring up the "living wage" bit... you pride yourselves on that but you subsidize it involuntarily with your heavy taxes. I've spent a lot of time in Europe and every time I eat in a restaurant or go shopping there, I'm amazed. At least we have a choice. And believe it or not, American service workers are mostly in favor of preserving the current system because they often make out very well with tips - much better than many of us who don't work in that sector.

[@morninglight67]

I lucked out on getting my air with RC... best price right out of my hometown airport with just one stop both ways. I am arriving at 10:30 a.m. the day before, so planning on some downtown Seattle sightseeing. Also, I used to have an NCL card and was earning points for a Hawaii cruise. Unfortunately, they changed their plan and sent me certificates to use before I could cover that cruise. So while they're great for benefits, just know they can change at any time.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing your experiences

[@Jahida360]

I love your videos 🫶🏽 learning so much !! I'm going on my first cruise next week with Msc and ordered a drink package... my question is do they charge me 18% for every drink ?

[@LifeWellCruised]

Have an amazing cruise! They don’t charge for every drink

[@frankcarlone5130]

Just a little pet peeve of mine, and maybe it's just semantics, but NOTHING is free on a cruise ship. If it's complementary or included, that means you've already paid for it in your fare. When seasoned cruisers use the word "free", I cringe.😉

[@LifeWellCruised]

I see your point! I agree, but it’s an easier way to explain. Usually I use 3 words interchangeably 😂

[@UnorthodoxNerdGirl]

Anyone know if Costco does the price change or credit for price matching?

[@shellygreenfield8193]

How do you find the cruise promotions or discounts? I'm such a novice at this.

[@KerryBeavers]

Get on the cruise line's email system. Also, use a reputable third such as Vacations to Go. Their prices are slightly less.

[@hiennguyen4412]

I clicked on your link and found my upcoming cruise from sydney but I am not sure what currency shore excursion uses.is it US$ or AU$.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I think it’s likely US

[@chweehar]

We are going for our first ever cruise with Priness, how and where do we find out the price drop. Thanks

[@LifeWellCruised]

You can do it by searching your cruise and cabin on their website. We use MEi Travel & they price check for you: bookmeicruise.com/lifewellcruised

[@natashav6432]

My cruise on Icon isn't til July - we booked Black Friday and I see the price just going up up up 🤣

[@galton3629]

I was wondering if we need to take our passport with us on our shore excursions in the Caribbean? If not, should we take our driver's license as identification? Thanks, Ilana, for another informative video.

[@LifeWellCruised]

The cruise line will usually tell you to bring government ID. I take my licence. I don’t take my passport & I leave it in my safe (I have a photo on my phone)

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

I have to be wary of packing as I’m flying .and different airlines

[@alicefitzgerald8889]

Is it our responsibility to monitor the price of a purchased cruise should it go down, or is this something a good travel agent could do for us. We will be sailing on the NCL JOY in May 2025 and we have our cruise paid off. Should there be a drop in price can we still benefit? Love you KZbins!

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome! It depends on the travel agent. You can check on your own and let the travel agent know. They’re usually happy to make an adjustment if they can. We recommend MEI Travel, who do bookmeicruise.com/lifewellcruised

[@michelleramirez531]

Although I prepay tips, I stress about having tips if I order breakfast room service. Do they expect a cash tip each time? Should I feel guilty if I don't have a tip to give? Thank you.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Do as you feel. Personally I feel like if I tip someone at home who delivers food, I do the same on a ship. $1-2 is very appreciated I think. I keep about 20 $1 with me for these type of occasions

[@texasdustfart]

Today I found out if you sign up to get offers via E-mail from the cruise line you can get OBC,