*tipping*... a practice my wife an I have adopted (we are now seasoned cruisers with 3 under our belts LOL) is to bring a few "thank you" cards with us. we will put a gratuity ($10- $20) inside for the crew members who impact our trip the most, mainly our cabin steward and wait staff (we like assigned dining so we get the same staff every night). while we know a gratuity is added on the bill we like to show a little extra appreciation to those who so often go the extra mile to make our vacation special...
I’ve never been on an excursion. I’ll visit the ports I’m good with that. On my last cruise I didn’t get off the ship at all. My intentions was 100% relaxation no hustle and bustling. I throughly enjoyed my vacation.
One more thing is that my Mom was injured the day before we boarded and she could barely walk. I don't know if all cruise ships do, but the Norwegian ship had a wheelchair for her to use up until we disembarked and found our luggage. Additionally, we found out that there are doctors on board in case of an accident or if you become ill (don't forget, they have SEASICK patches), etc.
THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH FOR THESE VIDEOS. I am watching ALL of them and I can't believe how many of these I NEVER THOUGHT OF. Again, thank you thank you thank you.
I would add one that's the opposite of #9 - they over plan their day. They see the daily list of activities and try to fill up every minute of the day. Having cruised about 20 times now, I pick out the handful of things I really want to do and play the rest of the day by ear. That way if I want to stop at the piano bar and have a drink, go up and grab a couple of cookies, or even take a nap, I can.
Travel insurance is important. Unfortunately, one time we had to cancel a cruise, we were insured and got a little less than half the money back, but it was better than being out all that money. Also, going along with "get one dish in the MDR", my husband LOVED the soup that we had the day before at dinner and told our waiter. They still had that soup, and were happy to bring him more of it the following night. (It was a cold fruit soup, I think strawberry.)
I would add not watching enough RUclips videos as research. RUclips has a wealth of information for first time cruisers. You can research your ship, ports, and excursions.
Thanks for the information. I have heard elsewhere, but it is good to hear again. Especially looking at the cruise line "forbidden" items or what you can bring
I really appreciate your videos. I'm going on my first cruise in January and this is very helpful. #10 is a big one. I make sure I tell my bank any time I'm leaving the state because they have shut my card off before and I was just one state over, in a state I can SEE from the parking lot at work.
Good stuff guys, yeah I'm big on planning even when I plan to relax lol, agree with all of these..I think we did good on our first cruise thanks to researching youtube :)
thanks for this video! of all research i did before our cruise, the only 1st timer mistake i made was over packing. it wasnt too overboard, and there was nothing that i wish i had but didnt, however, i now know a few thngs i can leave out to make the bags a little lighter for next time
Love your videos, I'm planning on going on my first cruise in Feb 2022. And you have my wife and me more excited than you could ever know, Thanks for your videos we are more than prepared (Hopefully lol)
take a highlighter with you, we sail Carnival and they provide you with a daily itinerary on a card. we sit down and highlight everything we think would interest us, if you miss one you always have a backup....
The tips. If you only pay the gratuity that is pre added to your cruise, ALL workers in that area share that small gratuity. SO I always add more to the receipt so I pay the ONE that is serving me. IF you take the gratuity off totally, and some jerk doesn't pay cash gratuity, then they get nothing. PLEASE PAY TIPS, OF ANY KIND. They work hard for us!
Hint... if the ship is tendering (not docked), then book a shore excursion because you get priority seating on the tenders and you don't have to wait in the general line to get off the ship.
Hey guys great videos and spot on. Just to add on most ships now there is NO money transactions. BUT you need currency for different countries especially if you are travelling around say North Africa and Europe. Or you can get a travel card before you go with credit on which is then debited as you go - assuming they recognise the card! Keep up the great work guys!
One other thing I thought of, this may just be Royal Caribbean, but I bet it's not. We thought the price for drinks was high, not entirely unexpected, but the reason it's even higher, you got a real nice glass. Well you paid for that glass and are allowed to keep it. We didn't know this and so turned in our glasses on the first several days and only found out during the last two days. They are great souvenirs! But if you have enough of them, you can order your drink in a plastic cup and not pay that extra. Also, Royal Caribbean had a soda card, I forget the price of it, but remember it was worth paying for our kids to get it, and some of us adults who don't drink a lot of alcohol and instead like our soda. You show the card and your soda is "free" or rather already paid for. The only time you couldn't use it was at Johnny Rockets and ordering room service, but we would order room service and just go down to the deck below that had a snacks bar to grab the drinks there, only a little inconvenience since it was nearby and stayed open late.
That too many excursions hit me hard one time lol...boy was I EXHAUSTED, buttttt I will say we got some epic photos from it haha and I can always catch up on sleep. #worthit You may have said it already in another video, but when's yall's next cruise?
What I didn't realize is that on some ships provide launderette areas to do your own laundry. A good option to have if you are on a cruise longer than 5 or 7 days.
These 22 tips are great! I tell people almost all of these. I want to add that it can become a mistake not to get a passport. You technically don't need one to cruise, but you really should get it. If you have to fly home, that go a lot smoother with a passport.
I over tipped on my first cruise but that was okay. On one of my cruises I stayed on the ship until later in the day and then didn't have much time to explore the port.
I know I’m a month late but I would like to add to call your cellphone company and let them know you will be out of the country to ensure you don’t get any unwanted phone charges.
Another tip: when you inform your bank that you're traveling, ask if there are any restrictions for using bank-issued debit/charge cards in some places. In Florida, my credit union- issued debit card can only be used where a PIN is required because of fraud associated with using debit cards there.
I had a cabin up front once and the anchor dropping woke me up every morning. Look at their drinks packages too. That can save a lot on soda, water, coffee as well has alcoholic drinks.
I really like the tips but would like to leave a suggestion. RUclips is a global platform. A lot of non-American English speakers watch videos and this one is relevant to anyone in the world. If you guys can use less slang and especially less "old timey" slangs, it helps people understand. I had a few people going on a cruise for the first time watch it and they didn't understand a lot of what you guys said. Also you should explain what MDR means.
I started by navigating around the cruise lines website. When I called the cruise line directly, I was overwhelmed with an option for this and an option for that. Personally, I found it overwhelming as a first-time cruiser (I'm a seasoned traveler on land LOL). Hindsight, I would most definitely work with a travel agent as they have a first-hand wealth of knowledge. For instance, if they've cruised on the exact ship or with the cruise line your booking for. They can even recommend which expeditions to choose from in terms of it being a low, moderate or high level of walking or difficulty. I booked an excursion for a train expedition with my son through the Yukon Valley. Being 16, he was completely boarded out of his mind. It would be an ideal excursion for an older couple or for a family who wants something really easy to go on. If I worked with a travel agent, they most likely would have recommended a different option. Lastly, I booked a couple of off-ship excursions with VIATOR. You can Google Expedition Companies and you'll find Expedia, Cruiseman, Shoretrips, etc. Viator was highly recommended and I was very pleased with their reviews. The best money I splurged on was Dog Sledding. We took a helicopter from a port in Alaska to a glacier and went dog sledding. ALWAYS get insurance when booking your expedition. I did and it saved me $$$ when my Mom had an accident the day before we got on the cruise. Her and my Dad couldn't go on the 3 out of 4 expeditions, one of which required us to walk a long distance from the ship to the shuttle (it was for the Yukon train ride but required a lot of walking). Like they said on the video, ALWAYS get insurance. I hope this helps.
I know there's at least one port where an excursion is all but mandatory. St. Petersburg. As an American at least, you have to get a visa to visit the port and the only way to get a tourist visa is to be sponsored by a tour company or guide.
i dont mean to be off topic but does someone know of a way to get back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly forgot the password. I would love any tricks you can give me!
@Jude Karsyn Thanks so much for your reply. I found the site thru google and Im trying it out atm. Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
Gordon McCone not an acronym. It is the placed your assigned to muster (gather) in case there is a emergency onboard. There is a required practice emergency before the ship leaves home port.
A big mistake is not checking how far the City is from the port if you wish to visit. Rome is one and a half hours from the port so the official excursion is best for newbies. Other cities are closer to their respective ports.
Our first cruise was given as a gift from kids last year. we had no idea what we were doing. Almost didnt get on ship because they wouldnt accept our birth certificates. didnt know anything about the shows at all, then my husband got sunburned and couldnt walk for the last 3 days. so I had to eat and do everything alone. Almost a disaster but the greatest time of my life. lol
my wife surprised me with our first cruise (she had went on 1 prior with girlfriends) as a anniversary gift. i thought for sure that i was going to hate it, turned out to be the best time i ever had on a vacation. we have made it a yearly tradition now to take a cruise for our anniversary...
What about carrying your luggage on when you have FTTF? I want to just carry it on so I'll have all my luggage since we're suppose to have our room ready when we board...any advice?
You can carry on your luggage on with you but often cabins won’t be ready until 1-2 pm (sometimes later)…which means you have to cart your luggage around with you where you go until your cabin is ready. Pain.
NCL Getaway will let you bring on bottles of wine with a $15 cork fee now ($30 for the magnum bottles)... NCL's site doesn't list a limit though. BTW.. love the videos... great info.. first cruise is < 100 days away.. was a gift for us..
Never been on a cruise before but I’m hoping one day. For everyone who sees this... when you chose a cruise line how did you choose your cruise? Was it only by destination/dates or did you select a specific ship with certain amenities THEN choose dates/destination? I’m curious bc I think I’d like my first cruise to be on RC perhaps 3-4 day but with different activities/shows/etc on each ship I’m curious how everyone selects their trip, lol.
My first priority is destination. Then I compare cruise line itineraries, prices and time of year for weather, schools are in or out if kids are a concern, and closeness to holidays that affect crowds. I know others have completely different priorities like transatlantic and few excursions, particular age groups, or available onboard activities. Enjoy, whatever your priorities are.
Ships time, must use ships time. Don’t be a pier runner.....unless the pier is on my side of the ship and I have my GoPro, then you will be all over Facebook!
Talk to Guest Services or the staff in the MDR -- I would think it would be the same as others who have special diets. If you just explain and ask them, they will likely be very glad to accommodate your needs. They want you to be happy. Now, I don't think they want you to order a couple of appetizers and a main course and a few desserts and then say "pack it up for me." But surely if you have eaten half of a large entree, they would let you take the rest with you. Just ask. It can't hurt to ask. Good luck!
Definitely! Often either my spouse or I will got get breakfast at the buffet and bring it back to the cabin while the other is getting ready for a ShorEx. Or we’ll grab lunch to eat on the balcony, or dessert after a show to enjoy in the cabin. They don’t care in the least. You’re on vacation!!!!
Bringing your room beach towels to the Lido Deck, putting them on a chair to "Save" it, and someone takes it or a staff member removes it... Then you get the $35 charge for the towel that "You" lost...
I know that this is an ancient video. Part of #10 should be that first time cruisers use the WRONG credit card. Many Visa and Master cards have a 2-3% foreign transaction fees for all transactions denominated in a foreign currency. That $100 purchase in Jamaica will appear as $103 when you get your credit card statement. I believe that ALL cruisers should carry at least one card that has the "no foreign transaction fees" provision. This includes all Capital One cards as well as many others.
Yes -- otherwise they will be confiscasted by TSA. BUTTTTTT .... if you can manage to find a place to buy your drinks AFTER you get off your flight, that's a good solution. Each cruise line has different rules and guidelines. For instance, on Disney cruises, each adult 21 or older can bring TWO bottles (unopened) of wine (750 ml) or 6 beers (12 oz) at the beginning of the cruise AND at each port. Must be in your CARRY-ON, and not your checked bags. You can take the wine to your cabin for private consumption, or you can take it to the MDR, where they will charge you a corking fee of $25 per bottle. If you do not consume the entire bottle at that meal, they will hold it for you to serve it at the next meal. But like I said, EVERY cruise line has slightly different policies when it comes to beverages, so find out before you go!
Passport/ID Birth certificate and cruise “ticket “ luggage tags. Check with cruiseline to make sure some have different requirements -jenny ps if you bought trip insurance I would print out numbers and policy
It seems to be like most debit transactions. They increase the hold as you spend more money. It’s doesn’t release or clear for a couple days after the cruise.
Adding the the gratuity is not always automatic. Some folks just pay the fee, taxes and port charges. For those that do that the gratuities are added near the end of the cruise. Of course things like alcohol, speciality dinning, and spa treatments are usually not included either. - Tony
i have a question , im going to Cozumel mexico, my question is once your in the port do you pay with American dollars if you want to buy something or go eat , or do you have to exchange your money for pasos
On our first cruise we traveled with my husband's brother and his wife. They have both cruised before. So they told my husband to order two dishes if that was what he wanted. He also really likes chocolate milk so he ordered that as well. Second cruise we took he went to order two dishes and the wait staff just looked at him like he was strange. They also could not under stand why he wanted chocolate milk. This last cruise went much better than the second. To the point of I was horribly seasick on the return to the home port and the wait staff sent me a dinner meal without us even asking. And it really did help my stomach the rest of the evening but I still wasn't up to leaving bed.
When y’all say buy travel insurance do you mean the insurance carnival tries to sell you when paying for your cruise? I thought that was just to get your money back if you can’t go. Does that include medical emergencies and all too?
Tony, could you suggest some websites or companies you use? My mother has medical issues so I'd like to know how to get any medi-vac covered if need be, but not sure how to choose a plan.
Get travel insurance! You get sick on the ship and have to go to the medical center, it's going to cost you if you don't have travel insurance. I ought know. I had to go down to the medical center for just gastroenteritis. I was charged $3,300 on my credit card. If I didn't have travel insurance I would have been stuck with the bill. Better safe than sorry!
sysprog1953 Yes. I never finish the desserts. Never a problem to take your left overs. If you tell the waitress or waiter they will give you a dome lid to cover your plate. Take it to your room, eat, then set the empty plate and lid outside the door. The steward will take it away.
La Lido Loca -donna already has her 2 dress up nights with shoes of course lol.me on the other hand i do have 4 outfits out but not in the suitcase yet.ya'll will love cozumel we've been the 3 times already
*tipping*... a practice my wife an I have adopted (we are now seasoned cruisers with 3 under our belts LOL) is to bring a few "thank you" cards with us. we will put a gratuity ($10- $20) inside for the crew members who impact our trip the most, mainly our cabin steward and wait staff (we like assigned dining so we get the same staff every night). while we know a gratuity is added on the bill we like to show a little extra appreciation to those who so often go the extra mile to make our vacation special...
I’ve never been on an excursion. I’ll visit the ports I’m good with that. On my last cruise I didn’t get off the ship at all. My intentions was 100% relaxation no hustle and bustling. I throughly enjoyed my vacation.
One more thing is that my Mom was injured the day before we boarded and she could barely walk. I don't know if all cruise ships do, but the Norwegian ship had a wheelchair for her to use up until we disembarked and found our luggage.
Additionally, we found out that there are doctors on board in case of an accident or if you become ill (don't forget, they have SEASICK patches), etc.
I REALLY APPRECIATE ALL THESE VIDEOS IN MY PREPARATION FOR MY FIRST CRUISE ‼️
THANK YOU SOOOOOO MUCH FOR THESE VIDEOS. I am watching ALL of them and I can't believe how many of these I NEVER THOUGHT OF. Again, thank you thank you thank you.
This info has been such a great help! First cruise coming up! Can’t wait
Awesome. Have a great cruise!
On my first cruise I done a bunch of research for my cruise and found a lot of useful tips.
I would add one that's the opposite of #9 - they over plan their day. They see the daily list of activities and try to fill up every minute of the day. Having cruised about 20 times now, I pick out the handful of things I really want to do and play the rest of the day by ear. That way if I want to stop at the piano bar and have a drink, go up and grab a couple of cookies, or even take a nap, I can.
Travel insurance is important. Unfortunately, one time we had to cancel a cruise, we were insured and got a little less than half the money back, but it was better than being out all that money.
Also, going along with "get one dish in the MDR", my husband LOVED the soup that we had the day before at dinner and told our waiter. They still had that soup, and were happy to bring him more of it the following night. (It was a cold fruit soup, I think strawberry.)
I would add not watching enough RUclips videos as research. RUclips has a wealth of information for first time cruisers. You can research your ship, ports, and excursions.
Great point Tesa! Watch more videos! I know a channel to recommend ;) - Tony
Don's? haha
B always recommend Don!
That is so true. I've been watching youtube vlogs alot
Carol Myers thanks Carol.
Thanks for the information. I have heard elsewhere, but it is good to hear again. Especially looking at the cruise line "forbidden" items or what you can bring
I really appreciate your videos. I'm going on my first cruise in January and this is very helpful. #10 is a big one. I make sure I tell my bank any time I'm leaving the state because they have shut my card off before and I was just one state over, in a state I can SEE from the parking lot at work.
Thanks! Congrats on your first cruise! - Tony
Thank you both for another helpful video.
Especially good to have so much information ahead of going on a first cruise.
Great video(s)...very helpful tips/reminders...thank you!
Hi Guys, many thanks for all the tips for first time cruisers. I found it all very helpful. Thanks again
You are welcome! Appreciate you checking out the video. - Tony
thank u guys. im going on my first cruise on the 26th and you guys have been so helpful
Good stuff guys, yeah I'm big on planning even when I plan to relax lol, agree with all of these..I think we did good on our first cruise thanks to researching youtube :)
thanks for this video! of all research i did before our cruise, the only 1st timer mistake i made was over packing. it wasnt too overboard, and there was nothing that i wish i had but didnt, however, i now know a few thngs i can leave out to make the bags a little lighter for next time
It seems to me you have to overpack a few times to get an idea of what you need and what you don't. Thanks for the comment and for watching. - Tony
Excellent suggestions. Forgot about bank my first time and that was a pain.
Love your videos, I'm planning on going on my first cruise in Feb 2022. And you have my wife and me more excited than you could ever know, Thanks for your videos we are more than prepared (Hopefully lol)
Thanks. Hope I remember to contact my financial institutions in time lol! All super great tips!
Lots of great tips..planning your day ahead is definitely a must, didn't do that on my 1st cruise, but sure did on my 2nd😋
Patricia Nash we are trying to plan excursion today for our upcoming cruise. :)
take a highlighter with you, we sail Carnival and they provide you with a daily itinerary on a card. we sit down and highlight everything we think would interest us, if you miss one you always have a backup....
Awesome! Thank you both! ❤️
The tips. If you only pay the gratuity that is pre added to your cruise, ALL workers in that area share that small gratuity. SO I always add more to the receipt so I pay the ONE that is serving me. IF you take the gratuity off totally, and some jerk doesn't pay cash gratuity, then they get nothing. PLEASE PAY TIPS, OF ANY KIND. They work hard for us!
Hint... if the ship is tendering (not docked), then book a shore excursion because you get priority seating on the tenders and you don't have to wait in the general line to get off the ship.
You're such a pretty lady! Great stuff...I've been on three cruises, take some gaffa tape/bungee cords in case of rough seas!
Thank you both. These are really helpful.
Thanks Melanie!
Very insightful. Thank you guys
Hey guys great videos and spot on. Just to add on most ships now there is NO money transactions. BUT you need currency for different countries especially if you are travelling around say North Africa and Europe. Or you can get a travel card before you go with credit on which is then debited as you go - assuming they recognise the card! Keep up the great work guys!
One other thing I thought of, this may just be Royal Caribbean, but I bet it's not. We thought the price for drinks was high, not entirely unexpected, but the reason it's even higher, you got a real nice glass. Well you paid for that glass and are allowed to keep it. We didn't know this and so turned in our glasses on the first several days and only found out during the last two days. They are great souvenirs! But if you have enough of them, you can order your drink in a plastic cup and not pay that extra.
Also, Royal Caribbean had a soda card, I forget the price of it, but remember it was worth paying for our kids to get it, and some of us adults who don't drink a lot of alcohol and instead like our soda. You show the card and your soda is "free" or rather already paid for. The only time you couldn't use it was at Johnny Rockets and ordering room service, but we would order room service and just go down to the deck below that had a snacks bar to grab the drinks there, only a little inconvenience since it was nearby and stayed open late.
That too many excursions hit me hard one time lol...boy was I EXHAUSTED, buttttt I will say we got some epic photos from it haha and I can always catch up on sleep. #worthit You may have said it already in another video, but when's yall's next cruise?
We are cruising over Halloween 2018 on the Carnival Elation. It’s our first group cruise. I’m pretty stoked. - Tony
thats so doppppppeeeeee! Can't wait to do stuff like this!
This is Griff btw! Forgot to sign my name lol
Great Tips!!
Jenny -- lovely earrings. Tony -- cool lid.
What I didn't realize is that on some ships provide launderette areas to do your own laundry. A good option to have if you are on a cruise longer than 5 or 7 days.
These 22 tips are great! I tell people almost all of these. I want to add that it can become a mistake not to get a passport. You technically don't need one to cruise, but you really should get it. If you have to fly home, that go a lot smoother with a passport.
Thanks and I agree on the passport, I wouldn't travel wthout one. - Tony
I over tipped on my first cruise but that was okay. On one of my cruises I stayed on the ship until later in the day and then didn't have much time to explore the port.
NCL charges you a corkage fee if you bring on wine (it's not cheap either) and they don't allow water or soda at all anymore.
Watching all your tips is fun. I've never cruised.
I over packed with many bags it was funny dragging everything around. Didn’t know where to drop my bags off at.
I know I’m a month late but I would like to add to call your cellphone company and let them know you will be out of the country to ensure you don’t get any unwanted phone charges.
Perfect!!! Great tip ✨jenny
I remember packing formal clothes for every night because i though we had to extremely dress up (dress shoes, ties & coats).
Thank you so much for the tips! How do we get any remaining funds from our sign & sail cards at the end of the cruise?
Another tip: when you inform your bank that you're traveling, ask if there are any restrictions for using bank-issued debit/charge cards in some places. In Florida, my credit union- issued debit card can only be used where a PIN is required because of fraud associated with using debit cards there.
I had a cabin up front once and the anchor dropping woke me up every morning. Look at their drinks packages too. That can save a lot on soda, water, coffee as well has alcoholic drinks.
I really like the tips but would like to leave a suggestion. RUclips is a global platform. A lot of non-American English speakers watch videos and this one is relevant to anyone in the world. If you guys can use less slang and especially less "old timey" slangs, it helps people understand. I had a few people going on a cruise for the first time watch it and they didn't understand a lot of what you guys said. Also you should explain what MDR means.
Thank you!! Would you recommend doing it on your own or using a travel agent?
I started by navigating around the cruise lines website. When I called the cruise line directly, I was overwhelmed with an option for this and an option for that. Personally, I found it overwhelming as a first-time cruiser (I'm a seasoned traveler on land LOL). Hindsight, I would most definitely work with a travel agent as they have a first-hand wealth of knowledge. For instance, if they've cruised on the exact ship or with the cruise line your booking for. They can even recommend which expeditions to choose from in terms of it being a low, moderate or high level of walking or difficulty. I booked an excursion for a train expedition with my son through the Yukon Valley. Being 16, he was completely boarded out of his mind. It would be an ideal excursion for an older couple or for a family who wants something really easy to go on. If I worked with a travel agent, they most likely would have recommended a different option. Lastly, I booked a couple of off-ship excursions with VIATOR. You can Google Expedition Companies and you'll find Expedia, Cruiseman, Shoretrips, etc. Viator was highly recommended and I was very pleased with their reviews. The best money I splurged on was Dog Sledding. We took a helicopter from a port in Alaska to a glacier and went dog sledding. ALWAYS get insurance when booking your expedition. I did and it saved me $$$ when my Mom had an accident the day before we got on the cruise. Her and my Dad couldn't go on the 3 out of 4 expeditions, one of which required us to walk a long distance from the ship to the shuttle (it was for the Yukon train ride but required a lot of walking). Like they said on the video, ALWAYS get insurance. I hope this helps.
I know there's at least one port where an excursion is all but mandatory. St. Petersburg. As an American at least, you have to get a visa to visit the port and the only way to get a tourist visa is to be sponsored by a tour company or guide.
I can’t imagine NOT booking an excursion for each port. We love doing new things at each port.
We have 4 ports on the next one. We are probably just gonna book three and 1 free day. Should be interesting.
My biggest mistake was that I did not start cruising early enough in my life.
i dont mean to be off topic but does someone know of a way to get back into an Instagram account??
I stupidly forgot the password. I would love any tricks you can give me!
@Connor Will Instablaster ;)
@Jude Karsyn Thanks so much for your reply. I found the site thru google and Im trying it out atm.
Looks like it's gonna take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Jude Karsyn It worked and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy!
Thanks so much, you saved my account :D
@Connor Will Glad I could help xD
Thank you guys
Very welcome!
hi ( muster point ) is an acronym? Multi, use, site, treat, emergency, request, !! Thanks for your time Gord mccone
Gordon McCone not an acronym. It is the placed your assigned to muster (gather) in case there is a emergency onboard. There is a required practice emergency before the ship leaves home port.
A big mistake is not checking how far the City is from the port if you wish to visit. Rome is one and a half hours from the port so the official excursion is best for newbies. Other cities are closer to their respective ports.
Good stuff thumbs up
Thanks!!!
Our first cruise was given as a gift from kids last year. we had no idea what we were doing. Almost didnt get on ship because they wouldnt accept our birth certificates. didnt know anything about the shows at all, then my husband got sunburned and couldnt walk for the last 3 days. so I had to eat and do everything alone. Almost a disaster but the greatest time of my life. lol
my wife surprised me with our first cruise (she had went on 1 prior with girlfriends) as a anniversary gift. i thought for sure that i was going to hate it, turned out to be the best time i ever had on a vacation. we have made it a yearly tradition now to take a cruise for our anniversary...
haha, i love it. great kids. I was in that clueless category my first time too (was a family cruise)
Bethany Burns why wouldn’t they accept your birth certificate?
What about carrying your luggage on when you have FTTF? I want to just carry it on so I'll have all my luggage since we're suppose to have our room ready when we board...any advice?
I don't think this is possible.
You can carry on your luggage on with you but often cabins won’t be ready until 1-2 pm (sometimes later)…which means you have to cart your luggage around with you where you go until your cabin is ready. Pain.
Thank you
NCL will not allow any alcohol, pop, or even water carry on.
The Steaming Bean that’s not cool! I do want to try NCL though!
NCL Getaway will let you bring on bottles of wine with a $15 cork fee now ($30 for the magnum bottles)... NCL's site doesn't list a limit though.
BTW.. love the videos... great info.. first cruise is < 100 days away.. was a gift for us..
Hello. Would it be a good idea to buy a prepaid card and load money on it before u cruise?
Never been on a cruise before but I’m hoping one day. For everyone who sees this... when you chose a cruise line how did you choose your cruise? Was it only by destination/dates or did you select a specific ship with certain amenities THEN choose dates/destination? I’m curious bc I think I’d like my first cruise to be on RC perhaps 3-4 day but with different activities/shows/etc on each ship I’m curious how everyone selects their trip, lol.
My first priority is destination. Then I compare cruise line itineraries, prices and time of year for weather, schools are in or out if kids are a concern, and closeness to holidays that affect crowds. I know others have completely different priorities like transatlantic and few excursions, particular age groups, or available onboard activities. Enjoy, whatever your priorities are.
Ships time, must use ships time. Don’t be a pier runner.....unless the pier is on my side of the ship and I have my GoPro, then you will be all over Facebook!
Is it any cheaper parking in mobile Ala. Than the port...
I've had bariatric surgery so I eat very slow and not much. Can I take my food I don't finish back to my room?
I would think so. I have't done that before I can't see why not. - Tony
@@LaLidoLoca Yes if you are eating at the buffet but in the main dining room not sure.
Talk to Guest Services or the staff in the MDR -- I would think it would be the same as others who have special diets. If you just explain and ask them, they will likely be very glad to accommodate your needs. They want you to be happy. Now, I don't think they want you to order a couple of appetizers and a main course and a few desserts and then say "pack it up for me." But surely if you have eaten half of a large entree, they would let you take the rest with you. Just ask. It can't hurt to ask. Good luck!
Definitely! Often either my spouse or I will got get breakfast at the buffet and bring it back to the cabin while the other is getting ready for a ShorEx. Or we’ll grab lunch to eat on the balcony, or dessert after a show to enjoy in the cabin. They don’t care in the least. You’re on vacation!!!!
Bringing your room beach towels to the Lido Deck, putting them on a chair to "Save" it, and someone takes it or a staff member removes it... Then you get the $35 charge for the towel that "You" lost...
Oh ya... I like point them out to the staff cleaning and straightening up chairs... :D
I know that this is an ancient video. Part of #10 should be that first time cruisers use the WRONG credit card. Many Visa and Master cards have a 2-3% foreign transaction fees for all transactions denominated in a foreign currency. That $100 purchase in Jamaica will appear as $103 when you get your credit card statement. I believe that ALL cruisers should carry at least one card that has the "no foreign transaction fees" provision. This includes all Capital One cards as well as many others.
Is there anyone you recomend for cruise travel/health insurance.
If you are flying into the Port do you pack the sodas and wine in your checked luggage?
Yes -- otherwise they will be confiscasted by TSA. BUTTTTTT .... if you can manage to find a place to buy your drinks AFTER you get off your flight, that's a good solution. Each cruise line has different rules and guidelines. For instance, on Disney cruises, each adult 21 or older can bring TWO bottles (unopened) of wine (750 ml) or 6 beers (12 oz) at the beginning of the cruise AND at each port. Must be in your CARRY-ON, and not your checked bags. You can take the wine to your cabin for private consumption, or you can take it to the MDR, where they will charge you a corking fee of $25 per bottle. If you do not consume the entire bottle at that meal, they will hold it for you to serve it at the next meal. But like I said, EVERY cruise line has slightly different policies when it comes to beverages, so find out before you go!
What exact documents do i need to check/board the ship ?
Passport/ID Birth certificate and cruise “ticket “ luggage tags. Check with cruiseline to make sure some have different requirements -jenny ps if you bought trip insurance I would print out numbers and policy
La Lido Loca so all i need is ID & PASSPORT and boarding passes ?
@@ZeusKingOfGods1 option# 1 : Passport
Option# 2 : state issue id or driver's license with your birth certificate.
Always book a even number room.
Is there a reason why?
@@GiggleGoddess88 personal reasons. Just superstitious
How do you know where the galley is? I didn't see it on the deck plans...
Jayme Baker it’s always near a restaurant, dining room or other food/coffee venue.
How long does the the sign and sail purchases take to post to my bank account? Is it instant?
It seems to be like most debit transactions. They increase the hold as you spend more money. It’s doesn’t release or clear for a couple days after the cruise.
So when I booked my cruise and tax and gratuity was added to the cost...does that mean it's paid?
Adding the the gratuity is not always automatic. Some folks just pay the fee, taxes and port charges. For those that do that the gratuities are added near the end of the cruise. Of course things like alcohol, speciality dinning, and spa treatments are usually not included either. - Tony
i have a question , im going to Cozumel mexico, my question is once your in the port do you pay with American dollars if you want to buy something or go eat , or do you have to exchange your money for pasos
from what I've heard, the places around the port accept US dollars, but please, someone else verify that for me since I've never been there before.
On our first cruise we traveled with my husband's brother and his wife. They have both cruised before. So they told my husband to order two dishes if that was what he wanted. He also really likes chocolate milk so he ordered that as well. Second cruise we took he went to order two dishes and the wait staff just looked at him like he was strange. They also could not under stand why he wanted chocolate milk. This last cruise went much better than the second. To the point of I was horribly seasick on the return to the home port and the wait staff sent me a dinner meal without us even asking. And it really did help my stomach the rest of the evening but I still wasn't up to leaving bed.
number 10 should be number 1
Just watch it backwards ;)
@@LaLidoLoca i really enjoy your vids thanks for keeping them coming and the cruise uodates as well
You know it! Thanks for watching!
When y’all say buy travel insurance do you mean the insurance carnival tries to sell you when paying for your cruise? I thought that was just to get your money back if you can’t go. Does that include medical emergencies and all too?
We usually get insurance from a 3rd party that covers some form of trip interruption and medical and some form of emergency evacuation. - Tony
Tony, could you suggest some websites or companies you use? My mother has medical issues so I'd like to know how to get any medi-vac covered if need be, but not sure how to choose a plan.
We use Allianztravelinsurance.com or go through travel agent 😊jenny
Research and research. I trusted a not to good travel agent. I did my research too late, I usually research and I am not sure what happened here
So sorry you had that experience 😐jenny
Get travel insurance! You get sick on the ship and have to go to the medical center, it's going to cost you if you don't have travel insurance. I ought know. I had to go down to the medical center for just gastroenteritis. I was charged $3,300 on my credit card. If I didn't have travel insurance I would have been stuck with the bill. Better safe than sorry!
If you don't finish meal, can you take the leftovers? My gut (pun?) feeling is no. Thanks
sysprog1953 Yes. I never finish the desserts. Never a problem to take your left overs. If you tell the waitress or waiter they will give you a dome lid to cover your plate. Take it to your room, eat, then set the empty plate and lid outside the door. The steward will take it away.
Hey tony & jenny ya'll packed yet? Lol
We leave for nola in 49 days soo excited-cant believe how fast its gotten here.i know we arent 1st time cruisers but these videos help quite alot
Not packed yet, but I’m sure some packing will occurs today. :)
La Lido Loca -donna already has her 2 dress up nights with shoes of course lol.me on the other hand i do have 4 outfits out but not in the suitcase yet.ya'll will love cozumel we've been the 3 times already
Looking forward to it. All new places. So much to do. Trying to narrow some stuff down! Nice going on having some stuff picked out already. - Tony
La Lido Loca-you guys decided on anything in cozumel? We love cayman islands too-we did starfish point-the water is like glass-so clear its beautiful
My husband is 6 feet 8 inches. Will he even fit in the showers?
He should. He may have to bend down to get under the shower head.
He can use the showers in the spa area for free
No
I'm 6'4 and have to duck to wash my head, it'll be a tight fit for him...
Great tips!