We've talked to our guests and they've helped us compile an invaluable list of helpful tips for first-time cruisers. Who knows? After your cruise you may have something to add.   

1. Online Check-In - Speed up the boarding process by completing the Online Check-In process online after reserving your cruise, instead of at the port prior to departure.

2. Our Shore & Land Excursions are fun, full of adventure and very popular, so they book up fast. You have 3 options: book them online (up to 14 days before departure), book them onboard the first day at the Explorations Desk or on your TV in your stateroom using your remote control. Book early so you won't miss out on any of the fun.

3. For the first day of your cruise, pack a small carry-on bag with your travel documents, a change of clothes, bathing suit, maybe workout clothes, and any medications you may need. This will allow you to begin enjoying your vacation immediately, because you won't have to wait for your bags to arrive at your stateroom (it may take several hours).

4. If the spa is your thing, try to make your appointments on the first day, as the most popular treatments and times fill up fast.

5. If you want to grab a bite to eat when you first get onboard, there is usually one restaurant or snack bar serving food.

6. Every ship has two seating's for dinner in the main dining room - 6:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. (times may vary). Also, some ships have specialty restaurants (i.e., Italian, steak, etc.) we highly recommend you try. (A nominal fee applies.)

Norwegian Cruise Line is presently the only on that does not have assigned seating on all of their ships.

7. To make your cruise even more enjoyable, some cruise lines offer drink packages that entitle you to unlimited non-alcoholic beverages at the bars and lounges. It's a great idea for families!

8. What's the Cruise Card? For your convenience, ships use the Cruise Card signing system. This system allows you to charge all onboard purchases by presenting the Cruise Card that is issued to you upon boarding. On the last morning of your cruise vacation, an itemized statement will be delivered to your stateroom for verification. Your Cruise Card charges will be billed automatically to the credit card you selected upon check-in.

9. Getting on and off the ship - Depending on the port, there are two ways to get on and off the ship. In some ports, we dock right in the port so you can get on and off whenever you want via the gangplank. And in other ports, we use tenders (small ferry-like boats) that will take you to the port; tenders run frequently between the ship and the port. But remember to ALWAYS bring your Cruise Card with you, as you will need it to get off and get back on the ship.

10. Tipping - So that you can thank those who have made your cruise vacation better than you could have imagined, we've developed these gratuity guidelines:

Envelopes for gratuities will be provided in your stateroom on the last night of the cruise.

Gratuities may be paid in the following ways: