Too Many First-Time Cruisers Still Get This Wrong

[@dborlando]

And my worst cruise nightmare (as well as hilarious) was having packed ALL my clothes the night of departure. That’s right… I had NOTHING to wear but a Royal Caribbean bath robe off the ship, on the bus from the ship, and onto the cruise terminal (and waited 45 minute in my robe for our luggage to be sorted before my luggage section was ready for me to collect). At least I have a picture for memories and laughs!

[@ryastor]

If it makes you feel better, I saw where a husband had packed up all the clothes trying to be helpful while his wife was showering recently and she also had nothing to wear but the cruise's bathrobe out lol!

[@lauramata4244]

I LOVE sea days! I can sit and watch the ocean for HOURS and not be bored.

[@fifthof1795]

Same here.

[@singingwindrider9881]

Yes. That's what I look forward to, the sea days!

[@Skoogman13]

Really? I won't go on a cruise that has more sea days than port days. Boring, boring, boring...I guess each to their own. I travel to explore, not vegetate...maybe my curse, but my preference.

[@fifthof1795]

@@Skoogman13 You think chilling out to the sea is vegetating?

[@singingwindrider9881]

@@Skoogman13 same old tourist crap at every port, that's boring to me.

[@sarge6870]

Just to fine tune something..Once you are paid in full, the cruise line will not do changes. This is why it is best to just pay the deposit and go into a payment plan. As long as you are not paid in full yet, there is a MUCH better chance the line WILL honor the new promotion.

[@keithnewton8981]

There no such thing as payment plans you pay a deposit and then you pay the balance when asked.

[@sarge6870]

@@keithnewton8981 WRONG !!! I used to do it all the time! I'm a cruise advisor so I know what I speak of. Carnival has their own payment plan through a 3rd party as does most cruise lines. Do some research before you post. This info can be found right on the cruise lines homepage OR by using a cruise advisor OR just by calling the cruise line!! You pay the deposit then monthly fees deducted directly from you bank account!!

[@chrishatherley3531]

As an ex Shore Excursions Manger for P&O Cruises I'm so glad you included the warning about the ship not waiting for guests. Seen that happen far too many often with independent explorers. 👍👍

[@davidfence6939]

The fact some people are so entitled that a ship with 500-6000 passengers and 600-2500 crew would wait on them is beyond me. An airline doesn't wait so why do they expect a cruise ship to do so?🤦‍♂️

[@alanela6761]

If I recall correctly there is always a very loud announcement from the ship.. "do not get back late. you may wind up staying here"

[@EtzEchad]

Very important: double check when you need to be back on board when you take a shore excursion, especially if you book your own. I was on a cruise once and they moved the on-board time up by an hour on the day of the port call. Several people almost missed the ship and I believe that one couple did miss it. Also, I always planned to be back on the ship an hour early because I am a little paranoid about missing the ship.

[@LeftCoastStephen]

I really enjoy watching those people running down the wharf. Remember one family lazing along taking selfies while the lines were being taken in! They seemed to think that that could get on the ship at anytime before it actually started moving!

[@CaminoTurtle]

How do you know when the ship changes their time? Do you just let your smartphone change with the time zone?

[@LeftCoastStephen]

@@CaminoTurtle there’s clocks all over the ship and the TV’s in our cabin showed the ship’s time

[@dieseldragon6756]

From what I've been watching over the past couple of days, it seems that getting *Local* time and *Ship* time mixed-up is a common problem. The soundest advice seems to be to set your watch to *Ships Time* and set return/departure alarms on that so when your watch beeps to tell you you've an hour to get back on board, you remember that „Departure at 15:00“ (Ships clock, CET) may not be as distant as the clock you're looking at (GMT, CET -1) might otherwise suggest...

[@stevenforcey7788]

Also note that disembarking at the end of a cruise can take a very long time especially with the large ships. It is usually staggered so make sure for your next journey/flight etc (if applicable) that there is sufficient time or you could miss a flight. Also make sure you have pre-arranged transport as waiting for a taxi with many other travellers could be extremely lengthy.

[@nursie94]

I wish more cruise reviewers would discuss the fact that so many of the ‘adventurous’ excursions have a weight limit. My husband is a very active former wrestler. A really big guy.

[@jaybuzz00]

How huge is he?

[@sippinh2o]

this video gave me years of cruising experience in just 15 minutes. highly recommended for beginners/first timers

[@BillMattson]

I typically take the Cruise excursions whenever I'm visiting a new port. Once i've visited a port I'm more informed and can decide which way is best.

[@amybradley5821]

All true! First cruise on Carnival, never again. Love smaller ships, less party types so cruise Holland America and some NCL now. Don’t understand all the roller coasters, water slides etc. can do all that at theme parks. I want to relax, quiet ship with great ports. Save the partying and excitement for ports, that’s me

[@debra333]

I'm with you, Amy!

[@timwolfers7880]

The entertainment ships are geared for families with kids primarily. Parents can relax, while their kids are entertained. Win win for that category of cruiser.

[@davefitzpatrick6370]

Holland America, best cruise ever, no kids !!!! Carnival, nope, Disney, hell no...

[@barbram8001]

Amy Bradley...You will like the Azamara.

[@julieduree9210]

Plus Carnival does not have the safest reputation. I don’t want to vacation with four to 5000 people,hate crowds.

[@stuartlee6622]

I think I just want to do nothing, but read a book and sit and look out on the sea. I'm leaning to being one of the very few freighter ship passengers. I don't care to constantly be "on" and be witty and amusing to scores of people from New Jersey and the outer boroughs. I live in Manhattan; I'm not a foodie. I have plenty of theater and film and great food here. I really just want to do nothing. And no evening clothes and not even a jacket and tie.

[@GigglingKat]

My first cruise was in 2005 and I lucked out - I had access to a travel agent through work. I wanted to take my mom to Alaska but she gets motion sickness easily so I wasn't sure about cruising. They asked me where we typically ate out (standard fare franchise restaurants) and where we typically went on vacations (we're Floridians so typically Orlando theme parks at the time) and she advised me to book a cruise on one of the bigger lines and to get an inside cabin as low and to the middle as I could get and to pick one of the 7 day ones in and out of Vancouver (common at the time). She also recommended sticking to the cruise excursions as not to worry about the times as well. I listened and we ended up on Norwegian as Mom despises formal dress and I figured their "freestyle" dining would appeal and booked all the excursions through the cruise. We had a BLAST. We were quite surprised when we found people who weren't enjoying it and looking back I realize that agent basically walked me through this vid - to be honest, I'd forgotten she asked me about eating out and vacations until I watched this! The ones that weren't enjoying it were folks that were not on the right type of cruise or the right kind of cabin. I hope first timers see this prior to booking. These things really do make all the difference.

[@coma13794]

What a wonderful way to present such a wide range of choices without letting your personal prefs clouding every statement. Very helpful! I love the lack of drama in your videos, you just get on with it.

[@Karamellek]

Room choice is soooo important! I won my first cruise so I didn't get to chose my room which happened to be right above the anchor chain. Everytime it docked in the morning I was woken by the anchor dropping. Still had an excellent time though....

[@SM_77799]

Thank you so much for your guidance 🙏🏽 I've recently booked our first cruise with P&O, departing from Auckland NZ & visiting the South Pacific (New Caledonia, Vanuatu etc.). I didn't book the balcony room I wanted, Instead settled with the Oceanview room - to allow for the $ difference for a few excursions. I'm very grateful P&O have gifted a complimentary birthday cake & have waitlisted us for a room upgrade (if possible).

[@jackieheidorn5875]

I have an additional hint regarding choosing your cabin. Most ships will "skim" the coast on part of the cruise. If you want to be able to see the coast and not just the sea then pay attention to which side of the ship your cabin is located. We took a cruise to Hawaii while lava was going into the sea and our ocean view cabin was on the shore-side of the ship. We were able to watch the lava from our room instead of having to join all the other people on the pool deck of the ship trying to get photos or just watch the lava stacked together like canned meat.

[@c-linnd606]

So true! My husband always books a cabin with this in mind. Great tip overlooked.

[@d.6593]

But how to find out?

[@eddiegarcia8040]

Would that be on the drivers side

[@colinthomas867]

@@eddiegarcia8040 lol

[@esterdrass4964]

Shore side is best? Is that considered port or starboard side? I am planning a cruise in January and want to get this whole thing right!!

[@patriciaroane4913]

My first cruise was a theme one on RC Explorer of the Seas, so even though there were too many kids, I had a good time with the people in my group. I am planning a transatlantic QM2 one in 2023, and hope it is mainly kid free.

[@mstrathmore]

Such good advice - especially the part about choosing a cabin: never listen to anyone who tells you not to worry about the cabin!

[@mattdavis4248]

For me being an introvert with socializing issues, I need time away from people. Having down time in a comfortable and quiet place is important.

[@MaryOKC]

I took a 14 night Norwegian cruise (a last minute cruise) and right above my cabin was the teen club and the good news was there was only one teen on board that cruise so it was quiet…the cabin was chosen for me and it was a cabin for the hearing impaired.. it was large as well, and was the best cruise ever👍🏻! Once mask conditions are removed we will cruise again. ..we might be senior citizens by then.

[@56dlp]

I did Norwegian last month for 7 nights. The ship was only 38% occupied! It was wonderful.

[@ALL4SCUBA05]

We cruised months ago and didn’t have to wear masks. NCL didn’t require it.

[@LCLand]

Princess does not require and now have religious exemption 🙏🏼✝️🙂

[@yousufhasan4998]

I did a 7 day MSC Cruise in the Baltic Sea last month and the only requirement for masks were in the Theater and medical room. The ship was 1/3rd full. Definitely the best of the 4 cruises I've been on!

[@docmalthus]

Took my first cruise in August, Holland America to Alaska, and was helped immeasurably by your videos. And I turned many of my fellow cruisers on to your site. Good info needs to be shared!

[@largol33t1]

His tips are so helpful and I find it sad that he hasn't hit 500K subscribers yet...

[@moistbreadstick5625]

holland to alaska??

[@heathertirak6051]

Any tips?? Were are taking that same cruise in July 2023

[@docmalthus]

@@heathertirak6051 Best tip I can give you is watch Gary's channel before you go, both with regard to Alaska and cruising in general. I thought Holland America was first rate, by the way.

[@heathertirak6051]

Thanks! Yes I subscribed!!

[@lulabellegnostic8402]

1) all excursions and exclusive on board restaurants are bookable in advance. If you wait til you board you will be disappointed. 2)look at the ship’s itinerary and where the afternoon sun will be: most cruises are N/W, W/N , W/E, E/W so if you want to sip sundowners on your own balcony, work out whet.her you want port or starboard.

[@debrabessette2699]

My cruisemate and I book our cruise through Yankee Trails. We get bused directly to the port, Luggage is handled and loaded on board. Prices are great, don't have parking fees, no crazy traffic, no luggage to pull along. For first timers, We recommend you carry sunscreen and a few necessities on your person. Luggage takes a few hours to arrive to your stateroom

[@Hairmetallurgist]

Specialty cruises are a blast! My husband and I have sailed with "Cruise To The Edge" (a progressive rock cruise) since 2013. It is always a blast since we love the music and we always get a balcony cabin at the least. We also love the Mayan ruins excursions in Mexico, Belize, Honduras, etc. I never thought I'd like cruising, but I really love it! We've been on MSC, Norwegian, and a couple others.

[@jeffeby2218]

Well done! Very helpful. I will add you must understand the differences between trip insurance offered by the cruise line and 3rd party trip insurance. 3rd party can offer a lot more flexibility including canceling for any reason (at a cost, of course). You also need to be aware of the difference between ship time and port time if you are not on a ship excursion. You need to keep track of ship time and cell phones will often shift to local time. Finally, for US travelers, get a passport. It is just much easier to use even if a driver's license and birth certificate can be accepted as proof. We actually booked a trip and then had an unexpected expense 5 days before departure. We used all the spending cash we had planned to use onboard for that unexpected expense. We actually cruised spending no extra money. We drank a lot of coffee and iced tea! What was interesting is while it seemed like it would be less fun when we boarded, we adapted to it quickly and really enjoyed the cruise. Which leads to one last bit of wisdom. Be flexible. Things will not go perfectly but you can still have fun. Don't let an unruly fellow passenger affect your cruise. Smile and move on. Let others complain. Enjoy and relax!

[@TH-eb5ro]

Agreed, anyone leaving their home country is better off having a passport. If you need to take an emergency flight or other means you will need it. If there is a natural calamity or ship issue and you need to be evacuated, easier with a passport. If you are from the US join the STEP program, other countries may have similar programs.

[@Mike_McCord]

Different cruise lines handle time differently. CCL typically keeps the time of the departure port. So "ship time" remains constant. NCL however typically adjusts time to match the port, so you get a notice in your cabin to move time forward/backward as appropriate for the port. So "ship time" is local time. There are pro/con to each method, but most importantly, know how your particular ship is doing it!

[@johnfern]

Another good reason to get a nice ocean view (preferably balcony) is, if for any reason you are quarantined, you will still be able to see the ocean.

[@cherylkavanagh3387]

This was an extremely useful video. These are the ever important details that can make or break your cruise experience.

[@indigosue3070]

Our first cruise was a family reunion cruise to Alaska, sponsored by my mom. She said it was the only way to get us all together in one place at one time. 😊 We learned a lot about how to choose a cruise from that experience. Bless you, Mom!

[@TarenaD]

How was it traveling through the Northwest Passage? It's on my bucket list.

[@purplerose9041]

@@TarenaD Do it. The inside passage is stunning. We had a balcony cabin and every time we were out on the balcony, we saw sea otters, dolphins and whales (twice). The view is so beautiful.

[@eloiseharris2014]

Recently returned from an Alaskan cruise. We loved it! I would definitely do it again.

[@andrewmay9927]

I'm going on a cruise for the first time in the Baltic sea with P&O but most of the tours are walking tours so I don't think it ie worth paying £80. My plan is to explore on my own.

[@kevdogcle9955]

On my first cruise. I sailed with carnival. I love this Cruise line. I also learned, before I went . I would plan everything out. I pre booked those items, that I wanted to do or not. I would then, included them in my booking and paid for the shore actives. I wanted to do then added in my booking. I also booked my sailing a year inadvance. I do the deposit. Then paid threw out the year on my sailing. And then watched the fair. And if it dropped. I call and request a price adjustment. And saved me over 200 on my first sailing. I planned a set Budget to spend and stuck to it. If I go on a 4 day sailing. I plan on saving a extra 200 for drinks and on ship actives. I never pay extra for the pay dinning restaurants. I stick to the buffets,free dinning offering and dinning room. It made me more relaxed and stress free. I also never just give them a credit card or debit card. I set up on board cash account. I put the 200 in and that's all I spent. On my cabins I always book a middle deck and middle of the ship cabin. I never book a cabin by a gym , spa ,dinning room,night club or elevator or Lobby.. Inside cabins are very quite and dark and I never have a issue with noise or disturbing my sleep. When I'm on the ship. I always walking around the ship and exploring it. I also never do long sailing. I stay with a 4 to 5 day sailing or mist 7 days. I also look at how the sea days on the sailing are on the internery. I sail to the Bahamas, western or southern Caribbean sailing. I been on 7 sailing and only had one sailing that was not so enjoyble. But all my others were relaxing and stress free . And loved them learned that when I booked to check the fair. to always book a middle ship inside cabin. I'm a ac

[@kaboomfireworksshowroom2998]

You need to tell people also that if they don't get off at a port they get money back for that port. Also go to the front desk and tell them you want your tips removed so you can tip who you wan to tip. That,,,is a massive amount of money right there that no one tell you about before you sail.

[@adamrobinson8620]

Another good video. I would vary your first tip. Decide first if you are travelling for the cruise experience or the destination. If the destination, pick somewhere you would go whether or or not on a cruise. So for example the Caribbean doesn’t interest me at all. Our first cruise that we chose was to Tasmania, because we wanted to see it.

[@billylacharity3443]

We always book private excursions. Not only are they smaller and more intimate, many offer guarantees on getting back to the ship. You also save money.

[@rickcudmore8156]

Our first cruise was 10 nights on the Dawn Princess in the Caribbean and it hooked us into cruising. We booked all our shore excursions with the cruise line as recommended by our travel agent. Our port stop at the Isla de Margarita was cancelled due to a port strike so we had an extra sea day.

[@literacylabyrinth4018]

Just got back from a cruise on Royal Carribeans Ovation of the Seas, a beautiful experience on every level. The staff and food were wonderful. Its a massive ship so lots of walking and beautiful New Zealand tour . If youre not too fit I recommend Radiance of the Seas, smaller but had an incredible vacation at Vanuatu

[@marykbennett8158]

I always enjoy your videos and advice, and not because I want to take one, but to reinforce that a cruise is not for me.

[@colemant6845]

Good advice .. except... The Excursion advice. The same excursions are available onshore and online in advance for less than 1/2 price the boat charges. Go to Trip advisor.

[@lisabaker4255]

Our first cruise was 4 nights on Royal Caribbean with 2 kids. Great cruise with lots of excursions and things for kids to do onboard but I've never been so exhausted at the end of a trip. I vowed to have sea days on our next one, which was just my husband and I and our travel agent suggested Celebrity, much more for adults, and with 2 days at sea. Loved it! We sail on Celestyal next September, can't wait!

[@Minaish11]

I LOVE long cruise days out at sea!! We used to sail will my dad...he was a master mariner on cargo ships. Our longest sea voyage without touching shore was 30 days!!! It was AMAZING. 🇮🇳

[@PetroicaRodinogaster264]

my preference would be to only be at a port to leave or return. I prefer long stretches at sea.

[@hannahmitchell6262]

Wow

[@nathanielseymour8108]

Me too. On the last Royal Caribbean cruise I was on they had a huge dessert buffet on our days at sea.....so there's one more reason. ;)

[@garethevans7602]

wow! lucky you!

[@paulwright9644]

My wife and I are going on our first cruise soon, can't thank you enough for this VLOG and the many others you've produced.

[@tjeerdtrekkie1030]

I want to take a cruise vacation some day. pretty high on my bucket list. I want one of these cruises thats spends days on the sea. Would absolutely love it

[@jamesmatthews291]

This video should be on every first-time cruiser's most frequently played videos! Gold dust advice, particularly the categorisation of the different lines.

[@bobjacobson858]

Thanks for a very informative video. One little correction should be made at 6:08--the more luxurious cruises have a higher CREW to PASSENGER ratio, and NOT the reverse as stated in the video. This may sound like an stupid question, but as they say, the only stupid question is the one that's not asked, so here goes: Is there such as thing as an alcohol-free cruise? I don't drink, so I don't want to pay for something I don't use, and in addition it avoids having to be around or bothered by drunk people.

[@joebaumgart1146]

The thing I'm most excited for believe it or not, is being able to look at the night sky without all that ambiant light around. I grew up in a city where there's streetlights and 24 hour stores everywhere. I feel like I'm misding out on so many stars up there.

[@jimzeleny7213]

Good luck with that! On our three Celebrity cruises there were so many ship lights that you could barely see the sky. From any deck.

[@kirbrit1]

Better join the Navy for that one. The cruise liners are lit up like christmas trees.

[@uRBruna]

@@kirbrit1 I had heard that as well, but I think it depends on the ship for sure. On the Disney magic I was able to see quite a few stars, saw orions belt and such. Definitely couldn't see the whole band of the milky way though, but it's certainly a LOT more stars than what I see in the city

[@melodyschleicher81]

Your best bet for seeing the stars in all their beauty is a night trip into a desert. We went into the Sahara whilst visiting Egypt. It was breathtaking. Black velvet liberally studded with diamonds is how I described it.

[@cxa340]

I will say - we listened to a coworker who cruises a lot and selected a cabin with large porthole window on the second deck, and we loved it, having grown up sailing it was great reconnecting with the see and I spent an hour every morning just drinking my coffee and watching the sea/wake, later we did a cruise with a balcony and enjoyed it much less. One cruise they moved our cabin from the second deck to being above the theater, and the noise was unbelievable and we had no choice to complain.

[@jacquelinechristensen9231]

We learned this some 15 tears ago after two cruises two on HollandAmerica. Since then we have sailed 20 times with NCL all over the world and have four more booked. You have to determine what is right for you.

[@midwestkatie4]

Very informative. I would just add a note about cancel-for-any-reason trip insurance. On our first cruise I had no idea that such a thing existed. If one isn’t comfortable losing all of what you paid for a cruise, then insurance is for you.

[@FraserAtSea]

I totally agree with the cabin selection point - I was on a ship (which I'll not name and shame here) that had a horrendous creak outside my room, and I had 7 nights of AWFUL sleep. Had I planned better, I'd just have packed ear plugs and been absolutely fine!

[@johntsan742]

As a soon to be first time cruiser, thanks for your hard work of gathering all these information for us. But it's still a lot to take in, though.

[@pissedoffpotato1882]

Will be a first time cruiser here too. My husband and I are currently looking forward to more of your content in your channel. We have watched quite a bit have not been disappointed with the information. It is very much appreciated

[@jacquelyns9709]

Another mistake is taking a short cruise and thinking it represents the experience of the whole line. 2 to 5 day cruises are not typical of 7 day or longer cruises. Those amusement park features suit the needs of families and groups with widely divergent ideas of the perfect vacation. Or the person who likes amusement park rides and cruises.

[@neilevenden3481]

We went on our first cruise in January 2020. Boy, was our timing good. I watched a number of your videos, and talked to others who had been on many cruises, do we were better prepared for the experience. Our Travel Agent was very good at making recommendation and plans. This was especially true for a first-timer. Can't wait to go on another cruise in the future.

[@manolokonosko2868]

Here's my 2 cents on the subject for beginners and experienced cruisers: Avoid Carnival and Norwegian. Pay a little more but get better quality, whether you are a party person or the quiet type. OH! And whatever you do, DO NOT BUY STUFF ONBOARD. The biggest ripoffs are there, particularly jewelry and art.

[@jacksons1010]

Agree on Carnival, but disagree about Norwegian (NCL). NCL offers the “Haven”, an exclusive premium area within their ships. Book that, and you can enjoy both the quieter, more upscale area and venture out into the livelier big venues. I very much like the variety possible on NCL.

[@lindasirmeyer3228]

Norweign is the only cruise I would go “solo”. They offer so much to do and you are never lonely!

[@manolokonosko2868]

@@lindasirmeyer3228 Maybe I took the wrong cruise.

[@jacksons1010]

@@lindasirmeyer3228 NCL was the first cruise line to offer single cabins without any surcharge for solo travelers. I'm not even sure any other major cruise lines offer that deal.

[@cynthiabrown6028]

That's so true. I bought a wristwatch marked 70% off original price on a cruise ship only to come home and find it cost way cheaper on the company's website.

[@TH-eb5ro]

Check out the food. I was about to join a family friend on a Jazz cruise they do yearly. They told me the food was wonderful and anything was available in the buffets and off the buffet was not in the price which is fine. I contacted the cruise line and the buffet was set dishes rotated over the trip between the various dining areas. If I wanted to have healthy or vegan or vegetarian or low sodium or anything like that it would be USD10 more per person per meal even if I notified them in advance. I didn't go.

[@AnthonyWilliams-dc5ez]

Gary, thank you for the greatest informative videos…EVER! My wife and I learn so much about cruises thanks to you! We’re part-time tracer agents, and when we do ship inspections, we don’t get this kind of information to pass on to our clients! I understand now why you’re the top cruise KZbinr out there!👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@MrWraygl]

I am not new to cruising but, I must say, this is one of the most informative videos I have ever watched on this topic. Learned several things I didn't previously know. Thank you!

[@louisyock9285]

And then...there are those of us surprised by what we discover we like. I would count myself as the opposite of a Carnival-type cruiser. But I booked my first cruise on Carnival because it was so inexpensive (10 years ago). I found out that I love the Carnival vibe. Before my first cruise I thought I didn't like ships, being out of sight of land, or crowds--what could go wrong on a Carnival cruise? But as we pulled away from port, I discovered my favorite way to vacation.

[@r.i.peperoniiiiroh9625]

I’m never going on a cruise because it’s incredibly environmentally damaging compared to trains,cars and even luxury planes But your video was great

[@claire___]

Went with Marella, all inclusive. Flight, shuttle, food, drinks etc.. Adults only. Was great to see if we liked cruise ships. Mapped our own way at all the ports, lots to do close by. Though we prefer to travel and stay in countries, taking it all in, hoping on a no frills flight to another place for a bit, we will be doing TUI or P&O Mediterranean soon.

[@melodyschleicher81]

I have just booked a cruise on the Ventura. I'm hoping for a good trip as it is a bucket list item and will be my one and only cruise.

[@judithnaim-hirsh186]

Dear Gary I would like to thank you for your wonderful, detailed and practical videos!! I have close to 10 cruises under my belt but your videos have taught me so much more that I did not know. I am loyal to one cruise line and thus they have given me quite a few perks but you opened my eyes to many more. Thanks so much for everything!

[@kharris0465]

On my first cruise I discovered the extremely rare Other People’s Screaming Children. Not only do they scream endlessly, they also touch food and plates on the buffet line when they had no intention of using the plate or eating the food they put back on the buffet with their hand that’s dripping pool water into the rest of the food. Lesson learned.

[@davejiannuzzi4160]

I have a shirt that says”The wake view is the best view” most certainly my favorite place to sit and watch the water!

[@coolbreeze253]

A southeast Asia Celebrity cruise 5 years ago had to skip my most anticipated port due to bad weather. Tough. Suck it up. A couple years later on a Viking Med cruise, my first with them, one port was skipped due to weather, another in North Africa for security reasons. As both ports were why I booked that particular cruise, I let Viking know I was disappointed but still really enjoyed sailing with them. They contacted me and issued a future cruise voucher that was for considerably more than I would have asked or expected. Several cruises later, I'd be hard pressed to cruise with another line.

[@thescallytrader]

Royal Caribbean would never do this or MSC.

[@lauralilia3462]

I just cruised with Viking on the Mediterranean and it surpassed my expectations. I've become a Viking fan!

[@terrifromm5085]

Great tips, as usual. I completely agree on cabin location. I choose my location, deck, etc. as I enjoy quiet and I must be able to sleep.

[@Tenorsax69er]

Good point. I try choosing a cabin far away from the elevator so I know it’s not a cabin high traffic area as well.

[@cruisecrazy7066]

If touring on your own... ALWAYS plan to be back at the ship at least 1 hour early. Maybe 2 hours.

[@jimzeleny7213]

Absolutely. There is just so much stress worrying about being late.

[@supertouring1]

Yeah, that's so true. You gotta find the "right" cruiseline that matches your lifestyle.

[@Milzy55]

You forgot about Australia mate. Pacific Islands should be added to this list. Not all Aussies can fly halfway across the world to get on a cruise that costs less than the flights to get us there.

[@dchenkin02]

Gary simply mentions the three regions which have the most passengers according to the industry. Europe and the United States account for the majority of cruise passengers every year.

[@Cruise2go2day]

My first cruise was on Soviet time cruiseship, at Black Sea only, and yes, first timers mistakes are very common. Thank you Gary for making that useful video for newcomers.

[@robertpendzick9250]

Careful of hop on hop off buses! Was great leaving the port, getting into the city and making the first hop off. After seeing that area's sights we tried to hop back on, only to find a hour and a half cue as bus after bus moved by full, perhaps dropping off 10 passengers and picking up 10. When we finally got on decided to go back to the ship as passing other pick up points we saw the same length of cues and exchange process. (Barcelona, Spain)

[@cindawong4786]

Choosing a cabin has view for the last 10th cruises. A midship cabin is the best location for anyone who prefers not to feel the ocean’s movement when cruising.

[@fernandodiksaitiswalsh8082]

Hi! Former Disney Cruise Line Technician here. Let me disagree with you on the "smaller productions". The theater on board DCL ships is without hesitation, the biggest thing I've seen in my life. The production display on these ships is simply amazing.

[@lisgreen5675]

One important tip is to set your watch to the local time for that port. If you have your time wrong you might miss the departure.

[@juliefortunegirl]

I tried getting a credit because the fare was lower. This was on Norwegian. All they did for me was offer a $50 credit off my next cruise. My daughter was refunded the fare. She is booked on Royal Caribbean. WTH?? She checked the prices throughout the year and ended up paying half of what she was originally charged. Next time I'll book Royal Caribbean for sure!

[@seany2754]

For my first cruise ever solo Oct 1-9, I sailed on Royal Caribbean to the ABC islands. It was the best experience I've had in my life up unto this point and I met so many different people. The buffet was awesome and it was such a relaxing feeling knowing I was in full control of what I wanted to do at any moment :)

[@seany2754]

Update: Just finished my second cruise this time taking my mom. She had an amazing time and we got to explore Costa Maya, Harvest Caye, Roatan bay, and Cozumel.. This has been my favorite cruise by far. Went on the Norwegian Breakaway

[@tomc.4860]

A very basic symbol piece of advice is to take some earplugs for a sound generator with you on your cruise. Any cabin can be noisy because of its location or the time of day or night. You might get noisy neighbors you might have a dance hall above you so just bring some earplugs or music and relax.

[@cvn6555]

Never went on a cruise. Well, did with the US Navy twice, but that's not the same. You are making me very excited to book one in the next year or so! Thinking 5-6 days, Caribbean, a suite and a line that is upscale but still likes to party. Don't want to be surrounded by people much older than us.

[@JaniceCrowell]

I hated every cruiseline excursion I ever took, and I loved every private excursion I ever took. Just saying.

[@hannesballert3915]

I like cruising...but dont get the idea of doing it with a ship

[@owensmith7530]

My first ocean cruise was the Baltic with Viking Ocean and it was a great choice, despite not being on your list of three.

[@beaglesguy]

In re: cruise line offered excursions. Amen! Our first cruise we booked one at every port. The train was an hour late getting back and our ship (NCL) had a list of passengers to expect back from the train and it waited for us. We were so scared our ship was gone.

[@l.faraday8767]

We were extremely lucky on our first cruise. It was almost as if it was tailor made for us. Activity if you wanted it, peace and quiet if we didn’t. We chose Princess and we have stuck with them. Thanks for the top tips! ❤️🇨🇦❤️

[@pagrant]

We picked TUI for our first cruise in the Caribbean, and we loved it, my parents and I wanted around 1000 guests

[@juliedean7197]

Our first cruise was in the Caribbean with MSC huge mistake. It was noisy busy and the food was awful. Lots of people joining at every port so constantly having new people milling about and muster drills daily (which meant the bars closed). Have booked again for the Caribbean this time with friends who are experienced P&O cruisers. Fingers crossed 🤞

[@KanałŻyciewKanadzieAnitaBeata]

When booking a MSC cruise you must splurge on Yacht Club cabin. Otherwise that cruise is a hell.

[@chanchaga]

Never been on a cruise before but I am so glad I watched this video. I am planning one and my informed decision is very much guided by this video.

[@seeking70]

Love your videos! After 26 years of "cruises" in the Navy, my wife and I have tried to take at least one a year. As COVID hopefully dies down we want to start up again. Next on our list is Antarctica this February.

[@TooMuchLuggage]

Pls let me know how is the cruise in Antarctica. Have a great time

[@KhulZA]

I prefer sea days to any other days when cruising

[@briannickerson6858]

We have been cruising for thirty years. Now, we always select our cabin. A few years ago, neighbors told us they were going on their first cruise. We asked them about it and they told us they were going on the same cruise as us. Unfortunately, they selected guaranteed cabin. They ended up with a balcony cabin, but close to the main show lounge. Of course, it was noisy at times. It was annoying for them, but generally ok. Unlike Jeremy, we book a veranda cabin under the Lido deck, which he says is a poor choice. But our cabin is high and almost as furthest cabin forward. Neither of us is affected by motion, so we are ok with high and forward cabin. Also, being far forward, we are on a short corridor going nowhere. So, virtually no all night drunk passengers yelling, etc. As far as under the Lido deck, ours is far enough forward that is under the spa area, which is closed at night. Also, the spa rooms above our cabin are for massage that is a very quiet activity. So, while Jeremy is generally correct, there are exceptions.

[@andreagriffiths3512]

I went into my first cruise completely blind. I started watching cruise vlogs after booking. I got lucky. Went with P&O Aust. The ship was huge to me but was, in fact, smaller. I was blown away by the buffet. The entertainment was good, the itinerary was beautiful. The cabin (guaranteed balcony) was awesome. My travel companion left much to be desired. It ended a 25 year friendship. I regret she ever said yes. But I’m super excited for my Covid-delayed cruise which will now take place in 2023. I can’t wait. I’ll certainly know a lot more about cruising by then and will have 4 years of videos behind me. I might still be a green (new) cruiser but I’ll certainly be more prepared.

[@genxx2724]

I’ve also not felt friendship anymore after going on vacation and sharing hotel rooms.

[@PetroicaRodinogaster264]

I had a driving holiday ruined by my 2 companions so, when I went on my first cruise with two other friends, I subtly laid down some ground rules. As we liked different activities, we only met up for evening meal, evening entertainment and some ashore excursions as a general rule. It worked perfectly, no one was pushy or needy. My second cruise was with a group of 5 others and two of them were the most horrible people I have met. They ruined it for everyone. To me, the thing that makes or breaks any holiday is the companions. I would rather be alone than with a difficult person.

[@andreagriffiths3512]

@@genxx2724 awww I’m sorry 💕

[@andreagriffiths3512]

@@PetroicaRodinogaster264 we had ground rules too - every base was covered. Unfortunately it was my snoring that did it and i really tried to stay awake until like between 1-2am to give her some sleep without my snoring but apparently that wasn’t good enough. My sleep was then interrupted with the tv, chip eating, having things thrown at me and culminated with (joking? 🤨) death threats? When we got back she ghosted me for 2 months. By the time she decided to talk to me again I was all ‘Nope, I’m done!’ She basically wrecked my first vacation in 20 years and I still cannot bring myself to stay overnight at other friend’s place in their spare room. It just makes me so scared and anxious.

[@genxx2724]

@@andreagriffiths3512 Oh, my. You can stay in a spare room. Sharing rooms is what you can’t do. Lol I don’t like sharing rooms. I need my privacy or I feel bristly and resentful. My friend gave me a graceful excuse. I can tell prospective travel companions that I have poor sleep habits and have to have the TV on, so I need my own room.

[@gaerlan1946]

QM2 Transatlantic....Boring? Not in the least. I found the ship was the destination. It never even occurred to me that we never set foot on a port or island the whole 7-days. One of the most memorable cruise ship experiences my wife and I ever took. And we have been to a lot of cruises including river cruising. Thank you for a video well done. First time cruisers take heed.

[@jonmac007]

I once booked a carnival cruise at about 60 % off by booking one of the last three empty staterooms five weeks before sailing.

[@petermclelland278]

Excellent summary for a doubting first timer ? - I'm going camping instead !

[@lemmon-up4er]

I went on royal Caribbean and lugged our dive gear. Had a dive at each stop. Customs loved the smelly gear coming back. But we had a great trip. Did another one with gear and arranged dive boats while on board. Cancun, cozumel and Grand Cayman was cool back on ship by 2pm cleaned up ate a nice lunch and beautiful evening dancing.

[@jdminette]

My first cruise was a transatlantic crossing but it also wasn't a traditional cruise. I loved it. Would have enjoyed it even had I paid for it.

[@andrewb4556]

Hi We done the Mediterranean with MSC from Rome to Rome . One to two speaking English people on board. We found out it was a milk run for the Mediterranean. We were in the yacht club and first time for breakfast, we had smoking in side and outside. Not again!

[@timsanders9111]

Even though I have cruised several times, I find videos like this helpful. Thank you !

[@cocoaddams4502]

My brother travels on cruises all the time and loves it. I understand why now after watching a few of these videos. He's really outgoing and loves being around people so he fits right in. Me? Not so much. For me, a cruise means being around people with no escape except sure death overboard.

[@Sunset553]

I wonder if cruise ships are accessible for people who need a medical device to get around. The ships are so big, I don’t think I can walk far enough on those big ships without a walker.

[@Thetequilashooter1]

I love Celebrity Cruise Line. You feel so spoiled from the instant you step on board. And you’re right about having a nice room. There’s nothing better than sitting on your balcony enjoying the view with a loved one drinking coffee,,tea, beer, whatever.

[@ti12870]

All those fees, restrictions, among other things makes going on a cruise seem like a big hassle. I would enjoy very little of the cruise experience. It would be cool to take a tour of a modern cruise ship while at port.

[@loumello8813]

You are so right about choosing the correct line, we were lucky in that we chose Cunard in the Caribbean for our first few cruises and then on to Princess for the Caribbean, UK and Alaska. Both were just right for us and then we moved on to Viking and Celebrity and those are now our favorites. We will do our first Oceania cruise at Christmas and New Years in the Caribbean and it is a 12 day cruise and I am certain that we will love them as well. We know we like smaller luxury ships with great food, wonderful destinations and excursions and excellent service. I booked an inside cabin on my very first cruise and learned quickly that was not for me so from that point on it was either ocean view or balcony. We always do balcony now and also choose out own cabin so we are on the ship where we want to be. I also want to cruise with all inclusive lines so that I am not getting nickled and dimed on board. I will never be on an MSC or Carnival line ever, and not likely on an RCL or NCL unless one of the smaller ones. I always do ship excursions for my own peace of mind knowing that I will never miss the ship and the tours are managed quite well by the lines so you have reputable guides.

[@willgaukler8979]

...once you go balcony ... it is hard to ever not have one ...go for the assigned cabin every time to avoid noisy ones ...and don't forget to pack sunscreen ...that Caribbean sun can get awful bright when you haven't seen it in a while ...

[@joangreenberg1538]

You will be so spoiled on Oceania. Returned from 14 day Mediterranean cruise Oct/Nov 2021. Over the top service, exquisite food (and I have a fine dining group), O Life choice worked well. Travel Agent said would get more value by choosing the tours vs credit on the ship. She was correct. Also loved Viking on a 2 week Grand European Trip arranged with a few others from my Travel Meet Up group. Also excellent service, food, service, tours. Wonderful. Before those lines Celebrity and Holland American were also good, with no negative experiences. So happy to be cruising again