The 7 Things Smart Cruise Passengers ALWAYS Do

[@bpcapamerica]

Been on a lot of cruises. My big tip is to get to know your staff. I have made it a point to ask folks like my room steward and waiters in the dining room about their families and home. You will be amazed at how much your quality of service and fun will increase after that. Had a room steward on a Celebrity cruise cry once because we took the time to ask him about his day and his family. He made our room stay a wonderful experience. In other words, be friendly.

[@sachaput]

In all the cruises my wife and I took on several different lines, I can only recall having difficulty with one room steward. He would not separate the twin beds, although there were three of us in the room and even told my wife that her malfunctioning life vest was actually fine. We complained and he was replaced, along with an apology and a fruit basket. I agree that being friendly with all the staff can make a difference in your vacation.

[@SusanPitman]

I 100% agree with this! They love little gifts as well. Of course tips... but I bring extra things like phone calling cards, and I have even made "mix tapes" on CD before, and the staff loved them!

[@Kevin19700]

Absolutely spot on!

[@sharolynwells]

hubby just said, Yeah, you don't want to piss them off. That's for damn sure.

[@debbieyoung2291]

Being kind, respectful, and friendly is a good rule in all aspects of life imo

[@conmckfly]

Even though this was posted 2 years ago, I am just watching it now in 2024 and I have to say thank you, great advice!

[@pattyinsoflo5431]

Insurance is a must! On a cruise to Alaska 2 years ago I became critically ill near the end of the cruise.The medical team fought hard to keep me alive until they could get me to Hospital in Canada where I spent 5 days in a coma. After release from hospital I had to find my own way home and everything else on my own. It came out to over 50 thousand dollars. Thankfully my insurance covered everything. Im find today and even back to cruising but there is one big differrence, I choose my insurance policy. Dont buy it from the cruise line you will be woefully under insured.

[@Psuedo-Nim]

I advise people to just call their own existing insurance first. It is very possible they are already covered.

[@BradfordMcEwenVARENNA]

What insurance? …you give this so, SO RARE SCENARIO, and you make statements such as “ you will be underinsured if you take the ships insurance”, your own insurance “covers you better”…and not one shred of evidence presented?…one thing for sure, you will be paying out of pocket, for any issue, if you do not have the insurance with the cruise line…I am American Express Platinum, non USA issuer, so I have superior insurance, such as all liability coverage for car rentals up to 30 days, not just comp and collision. Your experience should be enhanced with what insurance you did have, how you paid $50,000 for travel, as my card will cover that, but unlikely any American would have one unless also an elite AMEX customer. “\

[@alexsai12]

Read your credit card policy it usually has travel insurance already

[@RichinZhills]

Great List! As a former crew member, I've seen just about every mistake cruisers do make 😁 Here's a few that go well with your video: ->Be on time (that's SHIP time, not always local time): Being late is the worst, the ship does tend to leave on time, so even being 5 minutes late can mean extra cost associated with you flying to the next port to catch the ship. If you read the fine print, your travel insurance may not cover you arriving back late, so that flight & arrangements can cost as much as the cruise. Keep in mind on some cruises you'll cross date & time lines and the ship may or may not adjust, but maybe your phone or watch does. Always keep "Ship's" time. ->Shipboard Tours/excursions vs. booking your own. See the above, if you book your own, get caught in traffic, and miss the ship, that's going to be one expensive tour. Anything arranged on shipboard will have the added benefit of the ship waiting. That's usually the only time it will. They may cost a little more, but there is safety in numbers and added insurance that the ship will be there, even if the tour is held up. ->Medical insurance - it usually isn't accepted onboard. Medical is one of those ala-carte things that you pay upfront on, then YOU have to fight your insurance company to get reimbursed for. So the first thing is to check with your carrier to see IF they will reimburse shipboard medical care in addition to foreign hospital care. If the ship can't treat you, they'll disembark you at the nearest port, wherever that might be, for medical care. Don't wait until after you paid all your fees to find out you are not covered. Carrying the specific shipboard medical and foreign port coverage could save you thousands, so for a few dollars more on your travel insurance, see about getting all medical covered too. ->Booking the cheapest cabin and expecting a free upgrade. If you've cruised before, you know the line to Guest Relations on the boarding day can be as long as your DMV and just as slow. Cabins tend to be on the smaller side, so judge your space well. The bunks & fold downs take up a lot of space, so plan on alternating dress times, bathroom details, and social events around how big the cabin is. Opening the door and sprawling out into the hallway isn't an acceptable solution. So choose a cabin/stateroom you'll be comfortable in. Most cruise lines also require a parent or guardian in a room, so unless it's adjoining, don't plan on putting your teens alone in a room by themselves. This will be reported and now either mom or dad will swap with one of the kids. So if you want privacy and alone time, spend extra for that middle door and the kids can stay "over" there. ->Book everything early: Dining times, showtimes, and port times. Most sail times are around the late afternoon 3:30 to around 6:30 unless the port is a fair distance away from the main city advertised or the port is an overnight. So you'll always be cutting your shore time down if you've selected 1st seating. Keep in mind this is the same for Shows, they usually alternate between the 1st & 2nd Seating. So even though you've selected 2nd seating for meals, you may need to be back to the ship by 4 or 5 pm to catch the first show. When you first arrive at your cabin on day 1, have your list of times and things you want to do arranged beforehand. Once in your cabin, turn on your TV. Most cruise lines allow you to arrange for the onboard shows & events right there. So get that done. Next morning, all your tickets & passes should be delivered to your stateroom (cabin) and you're done. If you wait until the 2nd or 3rd day, the sea day events & shows may already be booked so you'll have to decide on the port or seeing a show instead of enjoying both when you want to. You may even want to book or schedule two if you can, one early cruise, one late. That way if you like it or miss it, you still have a second opportunity. But be fair, if you're not going to use a booking, please cancel it, it will allow one of those passengers that didn't arrange things a chance to see it. ->Be nice: The list goes on, but one thing can't be stressed enough, be nice to all of the crew members 😁 They don't set the prices, they don't sail the ship, they're underpaid, and they work their butt off for you and every passenger. They're expected to be super-friendly BUT, don't mistake that with passion or desire. You can get a crew member into serious trouble by trying to create a romance on board. Look to the other passengers for that, appreciate the crew member for making you feel special, and feel free to let them know you're having a great time because of them. ->Get to know your Crew members: Crew members are also a font of knowledge for the ports you're visiting, so if you're looking for a particular food or event, start with your stateroom attendant and if they don't know, ask them which crew member might. You might enquire which bartender is from Cuba to get yourself a true Mojito or where a crewmember from India goes to eat to find the best Indian restaurant at the port. They also usually know the best & cheapest places to buy goodies as they're there every week. ->Tips & Grats: It is 100% True that most crew members are there for their family, they work their whole contract just to send the money home. I was fortunate enough to be an officer and they tend to have better quarters and benefits and you usually don't tip them. But tips & prepaid all go into a pool that is split between All staterooms. And yes, if you skip out on paying or tipping, your name is on a list that stateroom attendants get at the end of the cruise. So please, at #1 on your budget, have your tips & prepaid already figured in. That extra $5 you leave every morning on the bed or nightstand says a lot about how much you appreciate their efforts. And you never really know how well that crewmember may be connected, mafia's do exist onboard 😁 So whether it's a show that's sold out or an excursion you missed out on, a motivated stateroom attendant might be the roommate of or be really good friends with a crew member that could solve your issue. So please don't be cheap when it comes to the hardest workers. If you don't believe me, just check out the phones or local free wifi areas, they're usually always filled with crew members reaching out to their families. They have to pay for onboard wifi & phone calls just like passengers, which isn't cheap. ->Wifi & Phones: Are Slower at sea, so don't expect everyone will be able to stream as fast as they do at home. There's one, maybe two satellite dishes for data and everyone onboard is using that. So #1, on your cell phone turn off roaming, after 3 miles, the shipboard cell tower kicks on, and now all calls and streaming from your phone are using super expensive 3rd party roaming. Think $6-$8/minute. So if you have teens, you might want to just collect their cell phones (yeah, right), but uploading/downloading, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram onboard will all eat up your wifi package. So do as crew members do, save everything and when you find those free wifi spots in the port, turn your wifi back on and send everything. If you have an unlocked phone, sometimes a cheap alternative is to buy a local sim card if you're going to be making a lot of calls. You can usually find these right in the port/duty-free shops. There are also ship calling cards you can buy that are a local call onboard, but use a carrier to go long distance for a limited amount of card time. Happy Cruising!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Wow. Thanks! Brilliant list of tips. Much appreciated

[@Herbie11]

Okay! YOU deserve a tip.

[@Star-Boarder]

OK, questions about the hot topic - tipping. I'm always worried that I'm not tipping enough. I know, not many will say this. Cabin steward - usually leave $10 each day - more if the steward does me a favor. You mentioned $5. Is that a per person suggestion? Bartenders - if you prepay the drink package with gratuity, how does that work when I order a cocktail? What do you suggest? Dinning - what do you suggest, per person? If I cruise solo, do you suggest to tip the solo concierge? What other points would you say to tip or not to tip?

[@RichinZhills]

@@Star-Boarder Sometimes it's a culture thing. For instance, they tell you not to tip in Europe as it isn't expected, but I do it anyway. Personally I'm more inclined to tip the ones I interact with more, than say, the server I saw once on the pool deck. But gratuity should be just that, you feel gratitude for something they did for you and not a compulsory act. But what I guess works out well for everyone is the prepaid. It covers most, if not all the standard tips. If you've sailed a while, you'll remember getting about 15 envelopes for some positions you never met. Prepaid is good for that. Then there's the little things that really makes your cruising personal. That table waiter that has the impeccable timing, remembers you from last year, and always manages to get your stuff first. When you're at a group table, that's status! You may only see the headwaiter once or twice, and you don't have to tip each meal, but by simply asking your waiter if you can speak to the headwaiter, and when you do you compliment them for their outstanding waiters and how well you have been taken care of that evening, it goes a long way. Just going a little bit out of your way like that means a lot. Don't be surprised if the headwaiter starts paying your whole table a bit more attention. Stuff like room service, or using the concierge should be by case basis. But if you live in the lounge, don't be stingy about it. Those guys have a lot of stories and you may not want to be the punchline for the next cruise. And it doesn't always have to be cash, crew members have certain windows where they can get off the ship. Cutting down on how many times you get the room done, or being flexible on the time it's cleaned could help that steward. If you're going to sleep in, let them know that you won't need the room done in the morning. Maybe try to clear out of the room in the evening or let them know in advance when they can provide the service. Otherwise, they pretty much just have to wait around for you to leave. You've probably seen them at their cart just folding towels, well they're actually waiting around for you to leave so they can finish and get off the ship too. So it goes a long way to tell them your schedule for the next day. You mentioned per person, but maybe a better measure would be messiness and OCD level. Each of us have a tolerance level. If you're a 10+ on a 5 scale, maybe you should consider a higher incentive. If your kids like having food fights every night, that's a lot work. On the other hand, if you make your own bed, not messy, and never ask for anything special, then feel comfortable with the prepaid 😃

[@DougAlesUSA]

@Richard - thank you for your well informed comment. As a person with over 30 cruises in my past, from the Roy O Disney suite which, at the time, was the largest cruise ship suite offered (yes, that is my video on KZbin within the three kids), to an inside room on the long since retired ship Carnival Holiday, and plenty in between such as the Holland American Line Noordam, we are finding ourselves preferring adults only resorts that are part of a multi-resort complex, specifically resorts not aimed at the American market. These adults only at large resort complex come with a policy where we can go to any place on the large complex but only adult luxury guests can enter our resort. The Bahia Principe Adult Only Luxury resorts come to mind. At bahia principe Sian Ka'an we got a penthouse suite with private roof top hot tub for the cost of a veranda on a Carnival cruise. Nightly shows, delux beverages and alcohol package included, round trip transportation from the airport, meals included, no hustle to get on and off a ship at the ships schedule, the list goes on and on. Our resort concierge was able to arrange for us to have the same wait staff that got to know our preferences, including having our beverages and charcuterie waiting for us upon our arrival. Price varies widely within the resort complex, similar to different rooms on a cruise. We are currently looking at a giving a vacation this Christmas where all our kids and grandkids will join us at Bahia Príncipé Coba, a family / kid friendly Bahia Principe, value price resort, then after the kids are gone, the two of will stay a few more days at Bahia Príncipé Akumal, a Luxury resort for some pampering. Although this may sound extravagant, flights to Cancun are a real value, as are Mexican resorts that do not cater to US citizens. We speak broken Spanish plus we download the full Google translate app for English / Spanish on our phones. We find the language barrier adds to our enjoyment. Also, being Americans at a resort with mostly Europeans who do not tip, a $5 tip to a dining room server really puts a smile on their face. Oh, many resort workers that interact with guests speak some English. Maybe not housekeeping, but at lest one of the front desk workers, and at least some servers at the restaurant and bar areas. If I need to leave housekeeping a note, I can use my app to translate my message to Spanish then leave the note on the night stand. I am not going to say I’ll never cruise again, but with how its changed in this post-covid world, it wont be anytime soon.

[@nixboox]

I always get a suite because I watched Poseidon Adventure and if the ship rolls over in the night I want to be able to get out of my room without having to follow Shelly Winters through the bowels of the ship.

[@user-wi3fn6fg8q]

I loved that movie but I cracked up by your comment.😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@kimonk]

😂😂😂 But she was such a good swimmer! She saved them. (Well, she didn’t make it but..)

[@kathyownbey9128]

Omg that’s hysterical!!!😂😂😂

[@lesliemccormick6527]

Former travel agent here- ALWAYS get the most comprehensive travel insurance you can and get it from a source other than the cruise line.

[@pookerwesley]

where do you recommend getting it?

[@dianebrown7034]

Look after your cabin steward and they will look after you. On my last cruise, March 2022, I took my crocheting with me. Plenty of fellow passengers were fascinated, watching and asking what I was making. In fact , it was a scarf for our female cabin steward. I knew that the next few cruises for that particular ship was to the Norwegian Fjords. I also left a monetary gift as well.

[@FartBiter]

You really made my day when you said you don’t drink. The biggest thing that is stopping me from a cruise is the alcohol. I quit drinking years ago but it’s still tough to be around at times. Glad to see you’re having a good time sober. Thank you for the inspiration!

[@BlackScarlet15]

Congratulations on your sobriety. You're doing an excellent job.

[@madzwolf]

Beer IS alcohol, not hard, but still an alcoholic beverage non the less - just saying ;)

[@dawnoheee9524]

I went on my first cruise with a friend who is active in a 12-step program. I drink, but felt an alcohol plan wasn’t for me. I got a soda plan and I’m glad I did. Try a cruise line that focuses on enrichment rather than a resort-type cruise.

[@Remember_when]

Wonderful that you quit drinking. My ex was a vicious alcoholic and died from it at 55 years. I quit smoking (my addiction) 30 years ago (2 packs a day) and best thing I ever did. I no longer think about cigarettes so it doesn't bother me when others smoke. I hope that you get to that point some day with alcohol. I like to have soda/seltzer water when I can't drink. It looks like a drink but alcohol free. We also have a friend who has a degenerative brain disease and can only have one regular beer when he goes out. He likes alcohol free Heineken after that.

[@taragoldstein9719]

Carnival has aa meetings on board

[@catwilliams7538]

I don't drink, either - but I LOVE a good specialty coffee package! Being able to have a cafe mocha in the morning and a few espressos during the day make me happy.

[@65NART]

Nothing wrong with drinking. Just so you know you have the option to say enough, no more.

[@catwilliams7538]

@@65NART Agreed...and there's nothing wrong with choosing to not drink, as well. I stopped drinking in my 30s...a personal choice. I don't look down on people who drink...that's their choice and if that's how they have fun, go for it. And, I appreciate when people don't look down on me because I don't drink...because that's my choice and how I have fun. Everyone enjoys their cruise in their own way...and that's the way it should be.

[@willym9836]

I worked for several years at a Canadian airport - Canada+winter = snow or blizzard = flight delay. Yet every Saturday morning there would be people who had a cruise departure booked out of Miami that day. It was bad weather and their flight would be delayed, often their connections were no longer possible and alternate flights were booked or cancelled. The demands would start - what was I going to do to get them to the cruise dock? I was one of those agents who actually gave a damn and would try my best but I would often also ask why they hadn't left the day before. The general answer was: because it would have cost me a hotel. Then when it appeared they would miss their cruise departure it became my fault. I had ruined their vacation! I was once actually attacked by an irate gentleman and had to call the airport police. Now that I'm retired I cruise myself and always leave a day - sometime two days - before. Those mornings of disappoint and often abusive people taught me that lesson very early on.

[@tipsfortravellers]

It must have been very challenging as sure it was seen as your fault!! The cost of hotel versus missing cruise, I agree, is not a good reason....

[@christinerichards1982]

I also never take the red eye. I fly in the afternoon, sleep in a hotel and either catch the connection or cruise the next day.

[@lifeofriley8160]

We are cruising April 9..... already booked flight April 6. Crazy airport situations lately.

[@angelwingz892]

Thank you for being a good human. I hope your retirement is long and fun ❤

[@Dodo-bf3dm]

As someone who loves to travel, but is a very nervous traveler, arriving to my departure port the night before has been the best advice I've received for cruising!

[@hume6900]

We sometimes even plan to arrive at the embarkation port city a few days before and begin our vacation early and if our final disembarkation is a different city from embarkation, we might include a few extra days at the end. It makes sense and helps to make the vaca even more special.

[@rosean374]

I hv arrived day of several times. Took the early morning flight So far ( knock on wood) nothing has happened.😉 Also i dont stress easily.

[@hume6900]

@@rosean374, the only way I would travel day of would be if I was travelling door to port through the cruise line company I am sailing with as that is the only way I could guarantee that I would be onboard my ship from the beginning as they would be obligated to wait for the plane full of cruisers.

[@sophiepatenaude8604]

I agree with you. I like to arrive a couple of days before to visite and explore.

[@B_Evo]

Travel agent..yep. Arrive a few days early...yep! Im surprised he didnt mention to think twice about what you pack...(clothing etc)... think to yourself, 'Do I REALLY need ALL this stuff?'... My first trip to the US I got told to pack the minimum and buy some new clothes over there(I tend to not buy very often!!)...best advice I got! I took crappy old stuff and bought new stuff in $US cheaper than home.(I donated my old stuff, before you ask!) I just wish I'd bought those new trainers when I spotted them..half the price than home! ah well..lesson learned! Not likely to travel for a while yet at the moment anyway.

[@lisajaworski3387]

I much prefer an inside cabin because they are so dark at night. I sleep so much better when it’s dark. I’ve tried the balcony and window rooms and the light wakes me up continuously. So for me, it’s an inside cabin. I also don’t drink much, so a drink package is a waste for me. I don’t care about the specialty restaurants either. So I actually don’t spend much on the ship. I may do a few excursions and maybe get a spa package and that’s about it. But the good thing is that it leaves my budget open to take even more cruises. I average around 3-4 per year on top of other trips. So being budget conscious can also be a good thing.

[@russs7574]

To each his own, I guess. My S.O. and I love our balcony cabin. It doesn't matter what time we get back to the cabin, we always go out on the balcony to chill for a while. Often, I'll bring the laptop out with us so that we can copy our photos from that day to the computer, then we'll go through them to see which ones are the "keepers."

[@janicecefia7619]

No way would I have a inside cabin, again, stick to the balcony cabin, sleep like a baby

[@jencra7634]

I’m a nurse so I always have a little first aid kit with a variety of meds and things but I have NEVER thought about a dental repair kit. Will have to consider it.

[@karinnemeth7349]

My dentist suggested this to me prior to our first cruise. CVS drug store has them and they are reasonably priced

[@joannbanks9963]

My dentist prefers a drop of super glue. Easier to remove than the drugstore repair cement!

[@nosebirdy]

Our parents had their travel documents stolen and we could not get replacements in time. We tried up till the last minute. Our agent got their fees returned AND their entire cruise cost as a credit for a future cruise within an hour.

[@deborahwade9896]

I just realized that you are our "go-to" guy on everything around cruises and I've never written to tell you this. My husband and I are taking our first cruise ever at the end of March. We have been watching and rewatching your videos. Each of your vlogs are filled with incredible tips and you make them fun in a really straight forward way. Thank you so much Gary. :- )

[@ninaganci2134]

I only discovered him a few days ago, and I agree. Best advice ever

[@gnsgml11]

@@ninaganci2134 Have fun Deborah, my wife and I are going in July and we are so excited

[@chavonetaylor6287]

Will you be on Vision of the Sea? Because I'm going end of March as well

[@helios1912]

Yes, yes 1000 times yes--get to your departure port early. Make that time in those cities part of your holiday. Before our 2018 cruise around the Galapagos Islands, we savored four days in Quito Ecuador. We walked their Old Town, met locals in the Plaza Grande. One lunch, we dined in a bakery/coffee shop off the arts district. The smiling shop owner phoned her friends to come and meet the adventuresome Americans. We soon had a roundtable of folks talking, sharing stories and us playing with the kids.

[@co7580]

Arriving at the port of departure a day early is a must. The thought of missing the ship or having the stress of just about making it makes me squirm. And I've somehow gotten into the habit of looking at the ship's deck plans on the internet so frequently, I nearly know them by heart. No getting lost for me!

[@russs7574]

Staying over on Debarkation Day and flying home the next morning is a nice way to go as well.

[@Tricky_Adventures]

#8 : Make up a vacation trip list for items to bring on any trip you go on. I have a text file I print out for any trip, with sections for general vacation items and sections for different types of trips like winter skiing, summer cruises, etc. Clothing sections, documents section, medications, toiletries. Every trip I ever go on, I print it out, and start checking off items on the list while packing and leaving the house. I always have my gear, passport, etc. It's a pain to spend an extra $80 because you forgot your ski googles and even worse if you arrive at the airport without a passport...

[@Tricky_Adventures]

@Peter Evans Already on the trip list under the essential items section :)

[@bennettrigley9987]

Where is the list lol

[@Tricky_Adventures]

@@bennettrigley9987 It's pay per view on my only fans page. lol.

[@RealJohnnyDingo]

without a list I keep packing increasingly worthless items just in case..

[@lindawinter7813]

I recommend the basic PackPoint app. I like that I can add to it, hide portions, move all our listings or part of them to a different cruise or trip. And I can share it with others traveling with us. I'm using the free version so far

[@pxn748]

Our number 1 smart tip is to make sure have a positive attitude. We are going to have fun, and any issue will be easily solvable!

[@zzcruiser1]

“The worst it can be is great” has been our travel motto for over 40 years. Be positive. Look for solutions. Smile.

[@christinerichards1982]

RickSteves says “if a thing isn’t to your liking, change your liking”. If you expect food, rooms, customs to be as it is at home - stay home.

[@marymaryquitecontrary]

You're so right about using a cruise agent. They can leap right over most problems and questions, saving the client considerable angst and even physical and financial wear and tear. My father died suddenly six days before a major cruise, and it was a one-stop solution to drop the cancellation and refund request into the hands of the agent. (Yeah, do get the insurance, including cancel-for-any-reason. You never know.)

[@Clutching.My.Pearls]

Agents know the ins and outs which take all the stress off the traveler. We have a trusted agent and never have a problem with any trip.

[@pudellvr]

How do you find a great cruise agent? I don’t want one that specializes in Disney, or party cruise lines

[@MrWiggenhammer]

We always use an agent for bigger holidays because our travel and cancellation insurance prefer that. Our agent comes to our home but truth be told, my wife usually has everything sorted for our agent to put in the package.

[@russs7574]

Carnival is our cruise line of choice, and we've gotten to the point where we have our very own agent who works for Carnival and is our "cruise concierge." She takes good care of us.....notifies us of drops in our cruise fare,, can sometimes get us a discounted price on a shore excursion, is able to "massage" cabin assignments on occasion to get us all together, etc.

[@fluffytail6355]

I used to book everything for my cruise myself and it took days of planning and researching! Agents work for us at no extra charge (they’re paid by the cruise line) so no need for me to stress out when I can book through them! Will use an agent next time.

[@bigdaddio1959]

If we are flying in, we get there 2 days ahead just in case the airlines loses the luggage. Gives you that extra day to get your luggage or go shopping if the bag(s) are lost.

[@sct4040]

We plan to get there 4 days ahead and make it worthwhile the cost of the flight. Leaving 2 days after returning to the home port.

[@attila1746]

Great list! I follow every one of these tips with the exception of booking a cabin in the middle of the ship. My wife and I much prefer the extreme rear of the ship, facing the stern. The view is great, there is no wind, and it's MUCH quieter being at the very end of the hallway. Yes, it may be a bit further to walk (actually a good thing), but in the middle there's too much of a chance of being close to the elevators, far more foot traffic, and listening to kids running up and down the hall.

[@katz2912]

Totally agree, we do the same.

[@paulbrungardt9823]

Well said.

[@chriswilliams6568]

as long as you pick a higher deck, if too low down you will hear engine noise.

[@fluffytail6355]

Stick your foot out the door as one of those little idiots run by and problem solved!

[@lear544]

I understand, one of our favorite rooms we got was the first room at the front of the ship.

[@l.faraday8767]

I like the front of the ship. I love the rocking and rolling. We don’t get seasick so for us it’s fine. We always get a balcony. We love sitting on it with a drink watching the sun go down or come up.

[@hbgriss]

Get a big discount for posting that comment? Haha 🤘🏼😉

[@fredashay]

I like the very back of the ship, myself, but up high so I don't hear the engines :-)

[@l.faraday8767]

@@hbgriss I wish, but no. 😂😂

[@chriswilliams6568]

@@fredashay you are correct, if at the back and on a low down deck, you will hear them.

[@russs7574]

We always book cabin up on the Lido Deck, so front or back really doesn't matter. I will say that when I'm in bed at night, the motion of the ship helps me fall asleep and sleep soundly. Generally, on a cruise, I don't even wake up for my usual 3 AM trip to the bathroom....true, I feel like I'm ready to burst when I do get up, but I will sleep straight through the night.

[@michaelcollins8316]

One item that I would add is have a good amount of one dollar bills for tips. There are a lot of times where someone helps you and you want to give them a few bucks so singles always come in handy. This can be for help both on and off the ship.

[@lorettaolson8748]

I was in line at customer service. The fellow ahead of me was frantic. He had a cabin near the anchor. The noise was driving him crazy. Ship was at capacity. He was stuck. The cabin location is a make or break for a cruise.

[@tipsfortravellers]

agree!!

[@ginnyperkins7387]

All of your advice is absolutely perfect. I especially like the fact that you emphasize using a cruise travel agent since I am one. Anyone can sit behind a desk and say they are a cruise travel agent, so one that has taken the time to educate themself about the various cruise lines, is a member of CLIA and either an accredited or master cruise counselor and has actual experience of being on the various lines is most desirable. Ask about their credentials. Even though all the ships take you to far away places, feed and entertain you, there are differences. We often save people money or can offer amenities or on board credits as well. And if you have a problem we are there to help just like Mary said. Thank you! Thank you!

[@Milesco]

For what it's worth: "CLIA" stands for Cruise Lines International Association. Took a little effort to figure that one out, because the entire first page of Google search results for "CLIA" yielded "Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments". So if I may be so bold as to offer unsolicited advice, may I respectfully suggest that industry-specific abbreviations be spelled out so the rest of us mere mortals can know what you're talking about? Thanks! 🙂

[@elizabethmefford7200]

How do you find a cruise travel agent? Does that mean an agent with the cruise line or an outside agent?

[@trishachristensen9905]

@@elizabethmefford7200 I want to know that as well!

[@happytraveller2122]

Always choose your own cabin. Absolutely essential

[@CelestialLites]

Had one with metal walkway above, early morning joggers😳 Had one 2 doors away from pointy end, anchor being released 4 am good alarm clock🤣

[@davidl.6509]

I search out unusual cabins on deck plans and look for reviews on them. They are often great cabins!

[@lifeofriley8160]

Anyone who paid for a balcony and found a lifeboat in front of it once.... will always choose their cabin.

[@dawnajohnson1593]

@@davidl.6509 That's FASCINATING! I'll have to remember that! :)

[@KBTCaseyFlynn]

I always use an agent even though I do research myself. I’ve had my agent get me an upgraded suite for less than I found for a balcony. Also, we once were flying to San Juan to start a cruise and weather delayed our flight at the connection (another good reason to arrive at least one day in advance of a cruise.) The line at the desk at the airport with fellow passengers changing plans was huge. We called our agent and she took care of it and the hotel for over night within a few minutes while the line at the desk barely moved.

[@happytraveller2122]

Always do this too. I enjoy the research but want an agent to book it and handle any changes etc.

[@NancyD2]

Ours includes transportation to the local port (bus). They pick up around our city, load our bags onto the bus and then they arrive at our cabin! Our local port is crazy expensive to park and ugly to have someone drop us off. The bus is perfect to reduce stress and then gentle re-entry!

[@JBass33]

I am not a big drinker and I never bought a drink package until I took a river cruise in 2019. The ship had an extensive menu of specialty cocktails made with top shelf liquor that I wanted to try. The cost of just two of those drinks exceeded the cost of the daily drink package. So, I got the drink package and it paid for itself every day. But as mentioned in the video, you need to carefully see what is included in the drink package. There can be limitations on the number of drinks per day, the quality of the liquor, etc.

[@islaw1898]

Great informative video and I 100% agree with the travel insurance point for being a smart cruiser. My dad was a fit and healthy person who embarked a cruise with my mum and a group of their friends a few years back to the Mediterranean. He unexpectedly had a heart attack off the coast of Italy. Luckily, he was revived by the ship’s medical team but he had to be taken by tender to a hospital in Brindisi where he had surgery. His travel insurance covered every expense, from my mum’s hotel stay to the hospital bills, and they flew out a doctor who accompanied them back to their home in the UK. I used to joke about travel insurance but it really is vital. :)

[@benjaminschwartz7616]

Yes, and shop around for insurance! The option offered by the cruise line is typically overpriced for the coverage offered. If you travel a lot, consider an annual package (though those don't typically include cancel for any reason). And, perhaps most importantly, understand what your insurance does and doesn't cover. You don't want to find yourself unprotected when you're already in a bad situation. Personally, I have coverage that covers my party for injury and illness when traveling, including medical care, evacuation, and repatriation. It doesn't cover me if I have to cancel part or all of a trip, but I'm totally fine with that risk.

[@itsmejerkface]

So glad your dad's okay!

[@islaw1898]

@@itsmejerkface thank you very much for your kind message. It was a shock but everyone involved worked wonders to help.

[@elyseonlife8981]

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I used to think insurance was a waste. But since the events of the last few years, I don’t think I’d ever cruise without again.

[@islaw1898]

@@elyseonlife8981 Thanks for your comment. Certainly it’s something that I’d never travel without these days.

[@happytraveller2122]

Budgeting. Pre pay as much as you can before cruising. Load onboard credit if you can. Easy to do if you book way ahead.

[@cliffnorman178]

Your videos are not only extremely informative, but delivered in such an articulate manner.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks. Really appreciate all your support, and you watching the videos!

[@jeanettehill1526]

Just went on my first cruise and paid attention to your advice. Since we were traveling across the states, we booked a day early. Our plane was delayed 2 and one half hours and we missed our connecting flight. By sheer luck, we got a flight out the next morning. If not, we would have missed our cruise. Will always do this in the future!

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

I would recommend booking business class and avoiding el cheapo flights, but instead go with the airlines with the best track record. Or, if you can afford the days off, I'd even go 2 nights ahead of cruise day, only because no one can predict that pop-up storm that just grounded all flights. This is especially true in winter time where ice and snow is even remotely plausible.

[@davedove67]

Guaranteed category means you get the cabin no one else wanted!

[@jamess5154]

Or a free upgrade. We have done guaranteed on many cruises because usually we really are not picky and have never hated any cabin mostly because we spend little time in room. Plus we have been upgraded more than a few times.

[@irishinusa1615]

Thank you Gary. In addition to your suggestions, we also book our hotel room in advance. As departure day gets closer, favored hotels v location to port gets booked up.

[@tipsfortravellers]

good point! I do that too!

[@lisagardner4814]

@@tipsfortravellersnew to cruising and my first cruise is in may and I’m watching all your videos! Thank you great tips

[@litasanford7595]

I taught for 30 years. I have very high standards for instruction. Gary, you knock it out of the park every time! I get seasick very easily and will never go on an ocean cruise, but I’m a subscriber because I enjoy watching you. I enjoy learning how the cruise industry works. It is very interesting to see how the individual “ship cities” are structured. I really like learning new things, but I especially like learning from a fantastic teacher like you. Thanks

[@valentina6429]

Ocean cruises ( I’ve been on 6) never had sea sickness at all. The stabilizers do a great job. A cabin in the middle and voilà! Please try! Viking has a free spa that is amazing and only on ocean cruises!

[@wyomaclouss1354]

I was really worried as I am prone to sea sickness. But we took a Viking Mediterranean cruise, going mostly around Italy- the ship was amazing, had a special stabilizing system, I had no problem at all.

[@davemihalic256]

Everyone has hopes and fears. Only you put batter-boards - "limits" - around you. These are choices you make. There are a number of ways you can limit motion sickness. Do you fly? Do you ride in a car? It is all the same thing, but can be overcome. I really urge you to expand your horizons and think about 'how' you might do something, rather than simply say you'll "never go on an ocean cruise..." I wish you well, regardless of how you choose - because we all choose to make our own lives what they are - best wishes, really!

[@SorinaLehaci]

Why you don’t take seasick pills? They are very cheap, and on some ships you can have them for free at the Reception, from where you get your cabin card or key (at least in Europe). Or you can find them at the Duty Free Shop (again I talk about Europe, ‘cause I start to understand that in the US, life is not that cheap regarding HEALTH CARE). Plus, on a big ship or a new one, you barely feel that the ship is moving. Beside that, it has to be a real huge storm for a ship to move in a way that you would get to feel seasickness. And even so, on a big ship you don’t get to feel the waves made by the storm. So….. 🤷‍♀️ (You don’t know what you lose!) So, it’s hard to get to feel seasickness. I had the same fear because, on the back seat of a car, and even in front, depending on the road, I get to feel sick like hell but, I had to take a job on a ship to see that, I was afraid for nothing. For sure, for you it will happen the same. ☺️ Dare to step over your FEAR! 🙏🏼😊

[@genitagray6126]

There’s no reason to avoid cruises. Get your doctor to order those “scope” patches that go behind your ear. They work on hospice patients so they’ll work for you!

[@jeremy1350]

Hi Gary, we took our honeymoon on a Carnival ship from New Orleans. and spending is a very important aspect. Both being sober, when all was said and done, at the end of the cruise, with non-alcoholic drinks, sodas, (we did not have a drinks package), we drank a la carte, photos, shore excursions, sundry purchases, gratuities, and what not, we spent more than $1000.00 U.S. between two people for a week. It is so important that there is enough money in your kitty at the end of the cruise, because costs add up, that you might not be prepared for in the end. For those who don't use credit cards, per se. That's all changed now a days. Once you are on board, if you don't have a plan to drink or spend, and you perhaps don't ponder that thought, you might be surprised to see just how many charges one accrues over their vacation.

[@seashelify362]

We are not big alcohol consumers, so will only purchase a few drinks over the cruise. We have done 3 transAtlantic cruises & have gone as cheap as we can go. Inside, wherever they want to put us. But there are 2 things that govern us 1. We live on the ocean & have amazing ocean views from our home. 2. We regard the cruise as a form of transportation from the US to Europe with plans to spend a month in Europe before flying home. HOWEVER have not sailed since COVID so that will definitely change our room choice when we do travel again.

[@johnl3239]

Book your own excursions to save money. One way to do it is to log onto Cruise Critic, join the roll call for your particular cruise and see what's offered there. Another way is to just walk off the ship and choose one of the excursions offered right there on the pier or nearby. We've never had a problem getting back for departure, yet.....

[@timbrown8581]

You mentioned travel insurance. On our last cruise just before covid with Royal Caribbean, we were refused entry to a number of ports and it turned into a cruise from hell. Upon returning home I was able to make a claim on my travel insurance however I needed certain details from Royal Caribbean. This cruise line would not forward any details to assist in my claim and in our correspondence kept stating to would not compensate us, even though we never asked RCL for any compensation what so ever. They were very difficult to deal with and as I could not get them to supply the required information, the claim could not proceed. I was a very loyal customer up to this point, but myself and the other eight passengers will never sail with RCL again or recommend them to others.

[@thomaspridmore106]

My son-in-law worked for them and said they are not a very nice company

[@TheSkyHive]

I've had luck going to their social media pages and laying out my story there. I've had it work multiple times.

[@timbrown8581]

@@TheSkyHiveThanks for the advice. We've decided not to travel with Royal Caribbean again. There are other cruise companies which value and assist their clients!

[@cherifurr3935]

I had that same problem with Norwegian. When I finally received medical documentation from them about the time I spent in their “clinic,”it contained a ridiculous amount of errors!

[@fascinationmama]

Thank you for this

[@michelealkins616]

Gary, I noticed a difference in two of your newer vs older videos. More recently you incorporated your “watch the next video” pitch BEFORE you fully closed the talk. That got me to click. When you say, however, “Those are my 10 tips for…” and THEN do you pitch for the next video, I will stop without waiting for your pitch. So best to do the “click here” pitch before you close. You probably figured this out already, as you new videos do the click here invite sooner, but I wanted to tell you that it really is more effective - so much so that I actually noticed.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks! Good to know. I’ve been trying different approaches to see what works best and so this is very helpful, thanks

[@fluffytail6355]

Do you really need an invite?? He’s the BEST one to watch. If you need an invite to watch Gary, you’re slow!

[@raynash4748]

Another great video!! If you are new to cruising, Gary is the most complete person on KZbin when it comes to cruise ships.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching and the comment 😀

[@Pureimagination200]

Always get a cabin with a deck/balcony. It’s worth every penny. Setting out there eating breakfast and see the giant blue ocean is wonderul

[@russs7574]

We always enjoy going out on the balcony at night with the laptop. We transfer our photos for that day off the camera, and then we go through them to see which ones are our "keepers." It's a very relaxing way to end the day.

[@zenkakuji3776]

Your advice is spot on. Thanks. By accident, I was offered a non-alcoholic wine instead of the "fizzy water" bottle as a repeat cruiser. I am not sure if every line offers this option, but on embarkation day I will stop at the cruise Loyalty Program desk in the atrium and request an exchange of the sparkling wine bottle with a non-alcoholic one. They are able to swap the bottle by the 2nd day of the cruise. I wouldn't say that it's a better beverage but for those passengers who prefer to not have the alcoholic offering, it's something to consider.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great tip! I don't drink alcohol but not done this. Will try on my cruise in 2 weeks !!!

[@ckgibson17]

I’m going to try that on my Viking cruise soon. My husband will appreciate it because he is a non-drinker.

[@zenkakuji3776]

@@ckgibson17 you can try contacting Viking prior to the cruise to confirm if it's an option. They possibly could put in a request in your reservation in advance. I typically cruise with NCL, and they only accept the request once you are on board.

[@peterbaker3314]

I agree with the cabin location - we always find an interior cabin (cheapest) in the middle of the ship, middle from front to back and top to bottom. As noted, the motion is minimized and the location is usually pretty far away from any noisy venues. And the point about travel agents is spot on - find and work with a good one. They make the whole travel process so much easier and enjoyable. We use AAA travel and have a wonderful agent there.

[@russs7574]

I don't mind paying extra for a balcony. I love my balcony. I will sit out there at night before I go to bed and upload the day's photos from my camera to my laptop.

[@jonathanc.6925]

With getting to the departure place a day before is huge. One thing missed about this was if you're flying to the departure place the airline could mess up and send your luggage to some other place. Having that buffer is nice so you will most likely get your luggage by departure. Yup happened to me.

[@ginnyyamamotosyphax291]

Agree! Using a cruise travel agent is the beat way. I always use Princess EzAir…usually a cheaper rate and love having someone meeting me at the airport instead of trying to figure out where to go/meet/etc. Using a travel agent is so much easier and less stressful. I found doing it on my own wasn’t that much cheaper.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for sharing! Good tip

[@KS-cl8br]

Houston to Vancouver round trip $384 vs easy air 6??. so for me independent is better but I need to add in ground insurance

[@ginnyyamamotosyphax291]

@@KS-cl8br price always depends on how close to departure date. We always book as soon as we can and the prices beat domestic flights by a landslide.

[@pauldagg7519]

Agree 100 % about choosing a cabin - we had an experience with an aqua class cabin on a Celebrity ship that, despite the premium cost, was underneath the dj booth at the disco, so the base started at 11 and went until 2 am. I should say the ship dealt with it well, getting us an interior cabin to sleep in, but lesson learned. Regardless of the class of cabin, look carefully at where it is. Great comments as well about drink packages - remember to consider whether specialty coffees and other drinks are included or not - its not just about alcohol. Love your channel Gary, and looking forward to cruising again soon!!

[@SusanPitman]

Whoa... considering the whole purpose of Aqua Class, and serenity and the like, I'd call that a ship design flaw. :(

[@dirkkeyzer]

What I like about your individual and collective reviews are the very clear and precise criteria for conducting each review. Although I have used cruise lines for both short and long haul holidays including world cruises I still find your comments invaluable. One always learns something new or confirms past experience. Many thanks.

[@terrifromm5085]

Couldn't agree with you more about arriving one day early and spending the money for a hotel. The stress of possibly missing the embarkation is awful. Excellent tips as always.

[@B_Evo]

Plus, the hotel might have a gym and pool and a great meals buffet oh, and a really good bed too! I remember staying at the Ramada florida, and the DaVinci villas SanFran before my Panama and Alaska cruises respectively...both had great facilities so I was super relaxed when I boarded. oh, and I use a 'shuttle' service to/from accomodation and ship or airport when travelling...price is usually pretty fair. In San Fran, I walked and cycled whereever I wanted to go..fabulous exercise...you DONT need a gym in that city with all those hills! Another tip...when on board..use the stairs and NOT the lifts..trust me, you WILL lose weight..I did, yet I still ate plenty!

[@vanceb1]

@@B_Evo Couldn't agree more with the advice about taking the stairs. My wife and I never take the elevator. We never gain weight on a cruise and have actually lost a pound or two on some longer cruises. Ditto for arriving a day early. One flight delay can wreak havoc on your travel plans. Getting there a day early gives you peace of mind. We went on one cruise where there were a lot of weather days. We ended up arriving several hours late and didn't get to the hotel until about midnight. It was no fun but arriving hours later the next day would have been disastrous. We could have easily missed the cruise.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

We are taking a cruise to Alaska leaving from Vancouver. We purchased our flight ticket for the day before. At first, we were arriving at 1:30 p.m. but our flight just changed and we will arrive at 6:30. If this was the day of embarkation, we would miss our cruise. Even when we board four hours away from our home, we still go to a hotel the night before.

[@russs7574]

Not only that, but when we cruised out of Miami, we went to dinner down at South Beach (one other year, we got down there early enough to spend a pleasant...and profitable...afternoon at Gulfstream Park), in New Orleans, we got to spend a fun night down in the French Quarter (Caught a performance of the Preservation Hall Jazz Ensemble), and in Charleston, we got in early enough to do a midday tour of Ft. Sumter and spend a nice afternoon on the beach at Isle of Palms.

[@Gianemakeup]

Everyone planning/going on a cruise should take notes. I cruise often and absolutely agree with your list. Well done, Gary!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks. Appreciate you watching and great to hear

[@wsweger]

Two things he didn't mention was that if you get the drink package, or it's included in a fare, they still charge you over $100 for gratuities, so it's not actually free. This happened to us on NCL, so it was not worth it for us. Even when "free," it still would have cost us more since we just wanted 1-2 glasses of wine at dinner a couple times. Also, if airfare is included, the cruise line does not schedule your flights until closer to the cruise date, which means you get what flights are still available. Again, NCL scheduled us for a Red Eye late at night flying cross country, which meant we would not get into our home airport until the next morning! Not the way we wanted to finish our relaxing cruise, and NCL was not accommodating when we asked for more reasonable flight times. Bad on NCL as far as we're concerned, so we're looking at other cruise lines to make future travel arrangements. Good luck!

[@dawnrobb221]

We are booked on NCL for a late September cruise from Venice and took the air package. NCL is not accommodating at all when it comes to the flights. My son is flying from Newark and will not arrive in Venice until 8 hours after the rest of us which is wasting an entire day in Venice. I am flying from Tampa to Newark then on to Venice on the same day but different flights. They will not move his flight to the same plane as mine. I am hoping this will be a wonderful cruise but it is starting out very rocky with the poorly planned travel arrangements.

[@westskincare]

Unless it’s Virgin Voyages….all tips are included on their cruises

[@fascinationmama]

Thank you for the red eye flight warning ….also are sodas and water free?

[@deehoffman1623]

@@fascinationmama no they have soda/water packages and now some have specialty coffee packages. Water was always on our dinner table and lunch if we ate in a restaurant. At the buffet there was unlimited soda, juice and water. So it depends on where you are.

[@sarahbailey6996]

I have never cruised before but hoping to go in 2023 I am getting as much info as I can and I think your amazing thank you so much xxx

[@tipsfortravellers]

fantastic to hear you are planning to cruise !

[@angelagaither6439]

I've been on 11 cruises and I still learn a lot from you. Thanks so much for all the great info.

[@coolbreeze253]

The drinks package on my Viking cruises ran about $30 per day. Their included wine at lunch and dinner is the usual plonk you'd find on a lower shelf in any supermarket. But I like really good wine at dinner which is $15 a glass on board. A cocktail before dinner, two glasses of wine with dinner and an after drink late night would run well more than $30. Another tip: Skip cruises which aim to please kids! Bonus: I never caught Gary putting a foot wrong on advice over the last several years I've been watching his channel.

[@rosean374]

Lol so no Disney Cruise?

[@elizabethlibero1878]

@@rosean374 have you been on a cruise with kids running wild? Hogging the pool and jacuzzi etc? Of course some adults are no better lol

[@Erin-Thor]

You have more alcohol in a day than I have in any given year. And I love an occasional good glass of wine or cocktail.

[@valentina6429]

I cruise on ships that don’t have kids under 18

[@valentina6429]

@@rosean374 NO, heck NO!

[@deziredawn7275]

The only thing I disagree with is location of the cabin I have found that the VERY back cabin is our favorite! The rooms tend to be bigger and the views are spectacular. Example we stayed in the Jr suite aft it was Huge but next year we took a grand suite in the mid ship it was considerably smaller in both room and balcony size. There is little noise at the aft of a ship. While it requires more walking it means that we enjoy more privacy than mid ship. I have terrible motion sickness and sea sickness. I have found the aft is much better than the front.

[@elinorosterhoudt7932]

Just re-viewing this very helpful piece as I approach my next cruise. We've decided that we will go TWO days ahead this time, with so many flights being delayed/cancelled. I've heard too many horror stories, especially about flying in Sunday for a Monday cruise, since Sunday is considered one of the most likely days to have problems!

[@russs7574]

My S.O. and I go on a cruise each spring with a bunch of friends (except for the past two years), and the absolutely smartest thing we ever decided to do was book a hotel in the cruise city for both the night before embarkation, and the night of debarkation. That can head off loads of stress. Generally, we will book our return flight for fairly early the next day, so we get a good chunk of that day (it's usually a Sunday) to do stuff like laundry, grocery shopping, doing the photo order etc. before going back to work. And, it gives us the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring in our cruise city. We've been able to do things like have a catch a performance of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band (and after a different cruise, we were able to score tickets to see Eric Clapton and Carlos Santana at the Superdome), visit the Kennedy Space Center, have dinner at South Beach, spend a day on the beach on South Padre Island and visit Fort Sumter. If, for some reason we can't stay over that night (on an 8-day cruise that returns on Sunday, some of our group can't get that extra Monday off work), then we opt for the post-debarkation "shore excursion" provided by the cruise line. We get to do a little sightseeing, and the cruise line takes care of our luggage until they drop us off at the airport. I can't emphasize enough how much arriving a day early and going back a day late prevents "travel stress" on our cruises. (This is the edit) This is for those who arrive a day early for their cruise. Another thing is that, if you want to avoid the hassle of making sure your "toiletries" are packed properly, with the proper size containers, and proper size plastic bag, get those items once you get to your cruise city. Most hotels are either within walking distance, or a short Uber ride of a CVS, or a Walgreens, or a Walmart, and their prices on those items are basically the same as they would be at home. And if you are flying home on Debarkation Day, you can simply leave your excess toiletries in your cabin (make sure you tack on an extra $5 for your cabin steward if you do that, though.) (Edit, Pt. 2) Always tip your cabin attendants above and beyond the gratuities you have added to your onboard account. I think on our cruise in March, my gratuities were $111, or something close to that, but it gets spread pretty thin. When I am vacating my cabin on Debarkation Day, I routinely leave and extra $50 on the desk for my cabin attendant, and a note thanking him/her for the great service during the cruise. I know that sounds like a lot, but on a 7-day cruise, that breaks down to a hair over $7 a day. (Edit, Pt. 3) I revisited this video and thought of one more thing. One of the best ways to de-stress before the cruise is to drive, if at all possible. We are retired now, so it's not a big deal. But even when we were working, we would build extra days into our time off for the drive down and back. Since we split the driving, we are able to do Pgh. to Miami in two days (although now that we're not subject to the time limitation of a job, we will do three.) The added benefit is that, for the past few years, with so many of our co-workers also retiring, we are able to visit and reconnect with our "work buddies," and haven't had to stay in a hotel for the past 3 years. Let's face it....flying sucks anymore.

[@jessebowen1879]

If I could find an expert on hotels as blessed with knowledge as you with cruises I'd be set.. you make cruising seem like a dream. I feel like I've sailed for years and I've never been on a ship.. thank you.

[@USATFJUMPER]

I do the select cabin as well. my wife first cruise was our wedding cruise and she loved the location we have. Always centered helps stability.

[@keith6400]

When you look at the price of an alcohol drinks package but are not a big drinkers sometimes you find the cruise line has bundled it in with other things like; gratuities, wi-fi etc. which should be factored in if those were another option you were considering as a stand alone.

[@gregchapman4823]

Lots of nearby hotels will allow you to park for the week and offer shuttle service to the port if you stay overnight.

[@jimeads7253]

I have used "guarantee" cabins a number of times. It always has worked out well.

[@doughuffman5790]

Middle of the ship, middle in all three dimensions to minimize heaving in heavy seas. Minimize pitching distance up and down, minimize rolling distance and minimize yawing distance.

[@loumello8813]

Agree, I never do a guaranteed cabin, I book what and where I want and stay away from noisy venues. We always get a balcony as well. We also always arrive at least one day ahead of the cruise and normally do a two or three day pre-cruise. I am booking only 100% vaccinated cruises now. I have always bought travel insurance and just consider it a cost of cruising. I bought a dental repair lit for our cruise in Alaska after seeing your video about this. I have always used a travel agent, I check everything online first and know what I want and then I discuss with my travel agent and they may have some additional perks.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Good to know there are still some tips you don't know! That will be me new test :-)

[@loumello8813]

@@tipsfortravellers Never too old to learn something new and benefit from others experiences. Great to see you and Emma getting together today in 25 minutes. Cheers.

[@chriswilliams6568]

Good for you. Also by using an agent, (I actually do not need one as i am a retired TA) one can often get shipboard credits as the agency has group space booked on that sailing and so the cruise line give them amenities to pass on to their clients. I use my friend who is an agent at Expedia Cruise Ship Centers. Like you, I pick my cruise first and book it, then pass to her.

[@MrLuis85698]

@@chriswilliams6568 you book your cruise first ??? and what is the purpose of having a TA then ? does she modify the reservation or something ?

[@chriswilliams6568]

@@MrLuis85698 This is so I can choose my cabin, if my TA does that and we are chatting over the phone, it is difficult. But if I pass on the booking to her, her agency often has a group booking on that exact sailing, so the cruise line give those bookings amenities like shipboard credit for the pax that book into their group. So I do it so that I get shipboard credit. Also, if there is a problem, either before the cruise or during, one just calls the agent and they sort it out. They have so much more clout with the cruise lines than we as individuals do, based on the volume of business that they give the cruise line. (I am a retired TA of 30 years). When the pandemic hit and for this next year or more, those TA have been working for no fees, to change and rechange clients bookings. Remember TAs get no commission until one actually travels. So they have made no money all this time. They work for us. Good luck.

[@sachaput]

Even though I've been cruising since '99, I appreciate your tips as some I had not considered previously. I'll only have a few alcoholic drinks during the day, but the addition of specialty drinks often make the drink package worth while. My wife and I had cabins all over the various ships and you're right about the 'guarantee' option as we did make some mistakes, especially with a partially obstructed balcony. As my wife passed away a few years ago, I'm looking to take my first solo cruise. I'll be keeping your tips in mind as I decide on just what I'll be doing. Thanks.

[@willgaukler8979]

... Solo Cruiser's will soon become the norm ... but for now only NCL has a deal for solo cruiser's ...

[@Messymy]

Can you recommend any solo cruises? Never traveled much and there seems to be many consideration.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

@@willgaukler8979 It is not true. NCL, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyagers, Holland America and some river cruises do offer solo cabins.

[@russs7574]

@@Messymy A lot of NCL's ships have "single cabins." Not many....I think there's only like 4-8 on a ship, but they are all clustered around a small common lounge, and if you're lucky, you do get to meet your fellow single travelers. It's an inside cabin, and it's not up on the Lido Deck (which is our group's preferred location), but I really liked it.

[@cherifurr3935]

Regent and Oceania have some cruises with single supplements. They also have social hostesses who extend invitations to all the solo passengers to join them for cocktails each night before dinner, and then those who want to can continue to dinner together. On Oceania sea days, I’ve received a lot of invitations for lunch, and she paid for the wine. Have made some long lasting friends this way!

[@benlaver5257]

I am proud to be a travel agent. Making people's traveling lives easier and being their single point of contact is very gratifying and rewarding to me and my parents (all of us agents). If you're ever needing a travel agent, look up Cruise Planners!! We book every type of travel.

[@CS-vv7yb]

We opted for GTY last June. Two days before our cruise we were placed on level 6, just above the life boats. They were working on the boat below us the whole 7-day cruise. Clanging, banging, and voices all hours. Didn’t know what it was until the last afternoon when we heard voices and gears grinding outside our balcony. We looked down to see them lowering the boat and working on the gears/pulley system. Learned out lesson about a GTY room. Always choose the room!

[@HOlsen-xe1xy]

We've been taking the dental repair kit with us since you told us about it 4 yrs ago. We were thankful as we needed it once 👍. AI always take activated charcoal for stomach issues and take a packet of Emergen-C daily to keep my immune system up.

[@bryantsteury8910]

The 8th thing smart passengers do: watch tips for travellers

[@tipsfortravellers]

thanks :-)

[@thrasherx9319]

Congratulations on setting a world record on likes for a comment. It hasn't happened yet but I am confident that it will. Very clever.

[@Clutching.My.Pearls]

Absolutely!!

[@cababyboomerq6012]

Actually, I think it is the number ONE thing smart cruisers do!

[@pornsakpongthong1092]

@@cababyboomerq6012 nobody asked you

[@terrymcminn9679]

We have done a lot of cruising over the years, Our Travel Agent has become a personal friend over the years, She always sees that we get what we want and better when she can! That value is worth every penny! When flight have gone wrong, One phone call to her and she has found ways around flight delays and the like! Most Agent get paid by the Cruise line of Air lines, No cost to us!

[@jaytee5692]

I always specifically look for a cabin on the ends of the ship, I sleep so well with the rocking. More movement the better i sleep!

[@lioncasualgamer4765]

I would say I'm somewhat agree with your tips. Except for the room picking, I and my family prefer to pick the toorm closer to end of the ship so it will be away from loud areas or some group of tourists returning back to their room when I'm sleeping. With this, I prefer to have a cabin that shares the wall with other cabin only 1 side. This way I might have noisy neighbors only on 1 side

[@SusanPitman]

This is an EXCELLENT video! Great tip about shopping for packages ahead of time. The one thing I spend a lot of money on cruises, is photos. So I have started buying photo packages in advance, and it does two things; (1 saves me a ton of money, and (2 takes the sadness of having to choose which photos I want. I'm cruising on Celebrity soon, and they have packages like "all digital photos plus 1 print of each photo" for a single price. So my husband and I can have dozens of cute little photo shoots, and we get to keep ALL the photos without having to choose!

[@MegaLokopo]

Always travel with a power strip with a lot of outlets. You will be everyone's best friend and will always have access to outlets to charge your devices.

[@theresapeterson875]

I usually agree with Gary B, but I'll argue one point: Guarantee Rooms are a great way to save -- and the savings can be significant. We've had rooms that're better than others, but we've never had a bad room. We've also enjoyed Inside Rooms. Sure, Balconies are nicer, but going more often is nicer than having the balcony.

[@Clutching.My.Pearls]

Gary I love your videos. Travel insurance has saved us twice and proved well worth the money. I have a First Aid Kit, put together through experience, that has been the saving grace not only for us but other travelers. And we always bring a corkscrew so when we find local wine we can enjoy it on our balcony and avoid the overpriced wines of ships and hotels. Keep these wonderful videos coming and please do some more river cruises and how about canal cruises!

[@cvn6555]

Great tip.

[@tomgallagher345]

Don’t they take your wine u bought when u come back on the ship?? I had to eat a piece of baklava in Greece I wanted for the evening -made me either eat or toss it before getting on board!!

[@chidebrown4420]

Booked gty Jr suite on Harmony Ended up with two level Crown Loft Suite. Was lovely w two room staff and Coastal Kitchen

[@happyapple8909]

What you said about getting to your departure port a day in advance... On the first cruise I ever went on, I had booked a bus to Miami for the morning of the day of the cruise. I had seen people online advise staying overnight at your port to avoid mishaps but I thought 'nah, what are the chances anything bad will happen?'. Bus was delayed and nearly cancelled and we were running to the ship with our luggage, along with the stress of getting from the terminal to the ship with the traffic of thousands of passengers. It was not worth what we would have saved from booking an AirBnb for a night. I haven't been on a cruise since but next time I will definitely be consulting this video for tips!

[@mikefendel]

HI Gary! Just wanted to send my compliments and thanks for your wonderful channel. As a retired airline captain and a well traveled guy, I really appreciate all the little things you mention which are great advise for travelers of varried experience. Having taken Viking Rivers in Europe and China and their Ocean ships on a Norh Atlantic crossing from Bergen to Iceland, Greenland and on to Montreal as well as their Hong Kong to Bankcocl trip i am a big Viking fan. Have also taken Seaborn in the Med, Regent in Alaska and a few others, I feel your comprehensive reports all very worthwhile. We are off next month for our ultimate bucket list cruise aboard Crystal Endeavor to the Falklands and Antarctica. Thanks again and keep up these wonderful reports.

[@sanchovaldez1111]

Thanks for your informative videos. I did buy insurance for a Viking river cruise for my wife and me. It was the best $7xx I’ve spent on travel. In my case my wife had stopped responding positively to her cancer treatments and travel became out of the question. All of our travel expenses were covered by the insurance. Travel agents are certainly necessary for new cruisers and advantageous for experienced ones. Many people are already AAA members like me and they can provide the booking. The AAA travel insurance is significantly less for the same coverage than Viking’s. I will be on my 2nd Viking cruise in December on a bucket list trans Atlantic crossing. I enjoy their ship size, all inclusive pricing, and excellent service.

[@lynnleipold2617]

We just returned from the cruise around Iceland on the Viking Sky. It was so nice to travel again. They gave us cabin 3096 since we booked rather late. I was worried about being in the stern, but shouldn’t have because it was still nice and quiet. We have mostly cruised with Oceania and Viking. I feel Oceania has the edge on food, but food on Viking is very good too. I was a little disappointed to have not gotten some more Icelandic foodstuffs on the ship other than the Icelandic lamb. Anyway, It was delightful nonetheless. I do appreciate the included airport to ship transfers on Viking if you book your air with them. I will not fly, however in economy again as at 76 with arthritis it is just miserable. Thanks so much for all your cruising tips. You are providing such a wonderful service.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great to hear you had a good time. I agree on the avoiding economy... though it does add on the $$ but worth it when possible

[@barbarapisarski4144]

Absolutely, get there the day before, so important.

[@meowsthree]

Thank you for sharing such valuable information! You mention things that so many people overlook and don’t even know existed.

[@tipsfortravellers]

You are so welcome!

[@wallywalpamur4951]

When it comes to insurance make sure you read and understand the policy. My niece needed medical attention and an ambulance was waiting for her when the ship docked in Sydney. I think the problem was something to do with being in Australian waters when she needed the doctor at the end of the cruise that she had trouble getting the insurance company to pay up. They eventually did but it took a bit of effort on niece's part.

[@emmapink5157]

Thanks for the tip on the dental repair kit and we’ll be sure to include that going forward. We also include an eyeglass repair kit, not only for your vision correcting glasses but also sunglasses.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great tip on the repair kit for glasses

[@Clutching.My.Pearls]

Im adding the dental kit to my trusty First Aid bag. My husband laughed at my "stopping and going" medicine...one for constipation and one for diarrhea. Until the trip when he needed it and another passenger we became friends with needed some too, then I was the heroine. Now, he asks to make sure I'm bringing that medicine.

[@bryan314]

As a member of the "blind as a bat" club, I will also recommend bringing an extra pair (or two or three) of glasses. There are several online places that will send you quality prescription glasses for pretty cheap...usually with only a week or two wait.

[@mod8179]

On the little med kit-bring aloe vera gel if you are on a sunny type of cruise (we mostly cruise from Galveston because it’s so close to us). I always bring a big bottle of aloe and store it in the fridge. So many times we have just given the whole bottle away to a family with a kid that forgot to reapply sunscreen while playing in the pool. It’s so cheap and so easy to pack and even if you don’t need it, you might be someones cruise fairy godmother!

[@okiern125]

Was the obstructed view a pain

[@samuelcollins1331]

I agree with most of what Gary talks about in this video. However we have recently changed from arriving the night before to paying slightly higher airfares for flights that are guaranteed by the cruise line themselves. I saw this firsthand in Ft Lauderdale When our princess ship was delayed over an hour while one of their guaranteed flights came in late. Yes the fare was somewhat higher than Southwest from Baltimore. But the difference was not so great as to make traveling the day before more attractive. I think this has become a relatively recent marketing option made available by the major cruise lines.

[@susan7775]

Princess has had this option for a number of years

[@chriswilliams6568]

Yes Princess guarantees that you will catch up to the cruise, so you still might miss a day or two I believe.

[@jeffkeeth6380]

Retired f/a....Had lots of cruise peeps over the yrs miss their cruises because they didn't fly day before. Mechanicals happen alot. They were pissed at us. We laughed our asses off with each other.🤪

[@samuelcollins1331]

@@jeffkeeth6380 Opps! times changed, you must be a tad Behind: Cruse lines GUARANTEE that you WILL board the ship SAME DAY via THEIR fly/sail program. Our recent Crown Princess SAIL AWAY WAS DELAYED an HOUR waiting for a Princess “guaranteed” flight to arrive in Ft Lauderdale! So “BEEN THERE, DONE THAT!” Life moves quickly, you have to pay attention.

[@joywebster2678]

Hmmm doubt they offer that to Toronto Airport since winter can shut down most runways at times

[@jacquelyns9709]

Reference drinks packages. Does your cruise line allow you to bring any soda or wine onboard? If so, can you physically handle it. Most lines require you to carry on board with you. You can't put it in checked luggage!. Most lines don't let you replenish at ports of call either. Calculations include length of cruise and how much you drink. It's also possible to prepay for a case of bottled water that will be in your cabin when you arrive. On alcoholic drink packages also check when they go in effect. Texas charges liquor taxes when in port. Also on liquor brought back from ports of call. Port of Galveston web site has details. Check it out ahead of time. You need a good cruise travel agent not a general travel agent. Beware of bundled pre or post cruise packages. They may be more expensive than you might like. While in general, cruise line shore excursions may be more expensive, they might not be. On my last cruise, the Atlantis Submarine excursion offered by the Cruise line was the same price as booking direct.

[@garywatson]

I submit that a balcony is critical for the simple reason that you might be confined to your stateroom for days if you get sick or have a positive COVID test, or for some of you, if you get drunk and misbehave. Sitting on the balcony for a few days while servants bring you 3 to 5 meals per day is far from a terrible experience, while you’d be ready for armed combat if stuck in an inside cabin for that long.

[@romeo9017]

Servants?

[@tammyeaton2776]

Carnival does not allow you to quarantine in your balcony cabin. Moved down to Deck one.

[@mariareyes-ku6194]

Thank you Gary. Well, we take a bottle of wine on embarkation day. We only buy a non-alcoholic drink package for our son that includes mock-tails, specialty coffees, soft drinks and water. In addition, if we want, we can take a 12 pack of soda to our cabin.

[@gatewayz75]

Another option if you can’t get to the departure port the day before is to book your airfares through the cruise line when making your booking, I can only speak for Cunard and Princess but if your flight is delayed or canceled the cruise line will get you to the next port because you bought the transfers as a package , I haven’t done this but I remember it was an option and like you I prefer the day before

[@jodura3363]

For us one of the important things is bring stress free. My husband’s brain is weird. Even though we have budgeted for drinks and have OBC he hesitates on getting a drink. It is hard to explain. Thanks for this video

[@chriswilliams6568]

Thanks Gary. Problem is with buying insurance when one books a cruise is, that here in N.America most cruise lines will refund a deposit if one cancels before final payment date, so there is no need to put that money out for insurance when there is no need for coverage until final payment, once final $ have been applied to file, ( then buy insurance) that becomes increasingly more non refundable as one gets closer to sail date. So if one buys insurance when they book with only a deposit, and buys insurance, the insurance fee is lost and was useless if one cancels before final payment. Thanks for video.

[@MrGotair]

Make a travel folder/large envelope for your trip and it will make your trip easier as you go

[@user-wg5xl9vo8u]

This video is best for experienced cruises who are already savvy about cruise ship design.

[@belligirl21]

You always have shrewd advise, even for the most experienced traveler. Thanks for the video.

[@davidjohnston6105]

Great advice I agree with it all. One thing you suggested that I never thought about was the dental kit. That would indeed put a hamper on your cruise having a bad tooth. Buying one this week for my thanksgiving cruise.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad it was helpful!

[@amber.cartomancer]

I love my travel agent. I use her for every cruise. She has saved me money AFTER booking. Price specials that as a regular person i wouldnot have known., with COVID it was great working with her and in the end we got more perks for less money with me having to do the leg work. Totally worth it 😊

[@garywatson]

It probably sounds excessive, but I have a system where every time I see my cabin steward, however many times a day that is, I put a $20 bill in his hand and reiterate any special requests I might have (I like my ice bucket filled several times a day, for instance). Compared to the cost of the cruise it’s not really much money and it’s worth it to have somebody on my side trying to make my cruise perfect.