You are thinking about your first cruise. Imagine sipping cocktails while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean, exploring charming port cities around the world, or treating yourself to a new spa treatment each day.
In addition to fantasizing about your first sea voyage, you might also have some practical questions, like: I should pack what? How does it feel to play, eat, and sleep on a resort that is floating?
To make your dream cruise vacation a reality, follow these guidelines.
1. Pick a convenient time to browse:
The Cruise Lines International Association states that cruise ships can visit more than 500 ports worldwide. According to Anca Cenea, a Celebrity Cruises concierge who has worked there for more than a decade, there is a perfect cruise season in every part of the world. For instance, Caribbean cruises are best from December to April, sailing to Europe and Alaska is best in the summer, and Australia and South America are best in the winter.
Cruises can be booked through the reservation line or directly through the cruise company’s website.
2. Get the most out of Suite Life:
Staterooms and suites with balconies are among the many opulent accommodations offered by luxury cruise lines like Celebrity. Silhouette Celebrities offers several VIP suites in the Western Caribbean with amenities like balconies with hot tubs, fully stocked minibars, and butlers.
Access to a shoreside concierge-like Cenea, who works out of the ship’s luxury suites, is yet another benefit for cruise passengers.
3. Pack for Day and Night:
According to the Cruise Lines International Association, cruise line dress codes are typically casual during the day but can be more formal at night, depending on the ship and the events you are attending.
In the Caribbean and other warm-weather destinations, beachwear is generally preferred. However, some of the specialty restaurants onboard may require something a little more formal for dinner. Even in warmer weather, bring a light sweater or jacket in case the room is a little cooler.
Choose layers-friendly clothing for cooler weather. Dress appropriately for evening cocktails on board and bring a jacket for cold-weather outdoor adventures.
Don’t worry if you forgot to bring your dress shirt or swimsuit. On board and in port, there are many excellent shopping options.
You won’t have to worry about bringing your checked baggage aboard because celebrities will deliver it directly to your stateroom. If you want to be close by when you board the ship, pack essentials like toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes in a small carry-on.
4. Review of documents:
It is the guests’ responsibility to acquire all required travel documents and to always have them readily available. Valid and appropriate travel documents, such as passports, visas, immunization certificates, and legal family documents, are required for embarkation and reentry into the United States and other nations.
All guests should travel with a valid passport for at least six months after the cruise ends, according to Celebrity.
5. Don’t miss your chance to board:
Check the exact times of your cruise’s embarkation and departure. If you’re going to a port city, you might want to arrive a day early so you don’t have to rush.
Online check-in is available for Celebrity Cruises passengers at least three days before departure. For additional boarding details, always check the booklet that came with your guest ticket.
6. Special meal reservations:
You can eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the main dining room as part of your cruise fare, but you should also plan to try some of the specialty restaurants. For an additional fee, guests can enjoy the unique dining options offered by each ship.
On Murano, a French-inspired fine dining establishment, the Tuscan Grill, an Italian steakhouse with a more laid-back atmosphere, and Qsine, a culinary exploration of the world, are available on Celebrity cruises. To make reservations, please get in touch with our concierge.
7. Plan a trip to the shore:
There are a variety of attractions and activities available at each cruise port. Take a scenic train ride through mountains and glaciers, zipline through the Puerto Rican rainforest, or dive from the US Virgin Islands for a glimpse of underwater life: In Alaska.
If you’re committed to a particular adventure, it’s worth making reservations for shore excursions. On the other hand, you can also check in after you board. The concierge can also suggest fun and relaxing activities, such as basic walking tours or thrilling adventures.
Naturally, once you get back on board, the fun does not end there. There are plenty of places to shop, eat, and have fun on each ship, so guests will never run out of things to do.