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I worked on cruises for 3 years and now frequently sail as a passenger. Here are the 10 things I do on every trip.
27.11.2024 - 17:49 / insider.com / Cruises
I spent three years working on cruise ships. Now, I frequently enjoy sailing around the world as a passenger.
Here are the 10 things I always do while cruising to have the best trip possible.
Before I even get on board, I make sure I understand my cruise's itinerary and the actual location of our ports.
After all, I've seen itineraries that list cities like Paris, Berlin, and Rome — none of which are on the coast.
Although an itinerary says Rome, you may actually be docking in the coastal city of Civitavecchia, which is an hour away by train. Knowing this could change your plans for the whole day.
I use port guides and a map to discern where my ship will actually be docked.
I always pack a bathing suit in my carry-on to prepare for embarkation day.
Depending on what time I get on the ship, my cabin and luggage may not be available for several hours. By bringing a swimsuit, I can go in the pool or hot tub and sunbathe on the lido deck.
There's nothing like watching our port fade away from the comfort of a pool or hot tub on the lido deck.
During the mandatory safety exercise on each sailing, I familiarize myself with the route from my room to my muster station.
It's best to be prepared for an emergency since disaster can strike at any time — I've even experienced ship-wide power failures at sea.
I do my part to reward the hardworking crew by paying the daily gratuity charges, sometimes called crew appreciation .
Some passengers remove this charge from their bill, but I'd never dream of doing that. The crew works long hours every day on contracts that can last for several months on end.
In addition, I provide extra tips to my cabin steward and any other helpful dining or beverage staff.
Money is not the only way to show appreciation. I highlight excellent service by using the post-cruise survey to praise specific people and departments.
When appropriate, I also reward great service by completing the onboard comment cards at the front desk. These simple actions can help those employees earn raises or even promotions.
Cruises are close-contact environments, and I wash my hands often throughout every trip.
After all, I've seen passengers at the buffet stick their hands in their mouths and then grab the salad tongs. Because of this, I also use a paper towel or napkin to touch the serving utensils at the buffet.
Even as a crew member, I'd enjoy walking on a ship's outside decks.
It's a good way to combine exercise with fresh sea air. The views are often outstanding, and I've been able to watch whales, birds, sunsets, and passing vessels.
It's also a good spot to go for the few times I feel seasick as the crisp outdoor air often eases my queasiness.
On many cruises, you'll hear an
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