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It could take HOURS for your luggage to get to your room on embarkation day. Make sure your carryon has anything you might need while you wait on you luggage. Like a swim suit and flip flops for the pool, the decorations for your door, your special coffee or drink mug or tumbler, a change of clothes, your makeup, medication, a book or your tablet, etc!!!
recently divorced (3.5 years now) after 37 years to a bad dude. Talk about getting my sea legs? Can't believe I'm going on a cruise with about 20 pickleball friends in April. Beyond. thrilled. My first cruise ever. The Love Boat.haha.
I grew up on boats. Tip for land sickness: stay on steady roads or flat surfaces and hydrate hydrate hydrate!!!! Also it helps to stare at a fixed point while walking to keep balance
Agreed on the trick of staring at a fixed point. I usually feel the land sickness effect for the first day off ship and the fixed point focus takes care of it for me.
First day onboard we love to explore The ship.we start from the lowest deck And walk end to end, getting Higher on each deck untill we have seen everything.its The most exciting thing on The entire cruise
Thanks for mentioning 'Land Sickness' - I experienced it after my first cruise. I didn't necessarily feel sick, but when I went to bed the first night back home, I felt the bed going up and down. It was so strange - because I never felt any motion at all on the ship. The only time I felt any motion was back home the first night I went to bed on land. It's never happened again, but it was certainly a surprise when it happened.
I love the motion of the ocean and always miss it once the land stops moving. (Edited to add I have sometimes felt that land sickness style movements 48+ hours after getting off the ship) Years ago I had a boyfriend with a large yacht, I still remember the very first time I got off _Marion_ and the land was still gently bobbing. On a cruise, I love it when the sea is just a bit rough and movement is easily felt.
I had it once and it lasted for quite a few days. My doctor recommended taking an antihistamine as it is caused by inner ear activity. After just one dose, I felt much better!
I look at it, at least for me as just getting my land legs back. My parents used to have a boat and I would feel it more coming back from a weekend on her, then I have from a ship. Totally to be expected of course as the Jomashan was only 36 ft. as opposed to the ship. She did have a steel hull, just like the big girls do.
Cruise tip.... read, read, read. Whatever Cruise Line you're booked with go to their site and read every topic that comes to mine. Read what I should pack. Read what I can not bring on board. Read what beverages may I bring on board. Read the alcoholic and wine policy. Read what is my responsibility regarding the muster drill. Read about what entertainment is provided for free. Read what documents do I need to bring to get on board. Additionally, check the country requirements based on your citizenship of what documents you need to enter their country and or any visas. It is your responsibility to educate yourself so read read read.
I've watched a lot of cruise videos (since I'm going on one for the first time) but this is the first one that mentioned land sickness/odd feeling and that the shops and casinos are closed during port time. Loved hearing about these things! Another great job Ilana!
@@michellegrant6476we're going on our first cruise to Alaska in July. Watching videos to learn the good, the bad and the ugly. There's so much information! Not excited about the sea sickness and land sickness, but we'll take people's advice and hope for the best.
Something that nobody told us. If you are getting side by side rooms, get the ones with the doors next to each other. Also, most balcony dividers can be opened up so that you create one big balcony for two side-by-side rooms. We effectively created a connecting room by using the balcony as the connector.
Holland America offers an unlimited laundry package, which is very helpful for packing/planning purposes. We did a 14-night Holland America cruise in December and the package for our cabin for the entire cruise was $79. We sent clothes out almost every day and went home with our bags full of clean clothes! Well worth it because it also limits what you need to bring, and you don’t have to do laundry when you get home! 🥳🎉. As to the “land sickness”, I just drink for a couple more days when I get home so everything seems all normal. 😛😂🤣
I'll agree with you on the laundry service, it was well worth it. Last June we were on a cruise from Alaska to Vancouver. We'd put our clothes in the bag and all most all the time we had them back that night. We were on Holland and the price was very reasonable.
@@miltonlentz8950 Agreed. The laundry service was very quick, efficient, inexpensive, and they did a great job with the clothes. All shirts (including T shirts) on hangers, shorts and pants on hangers, and everything else folded. Price is excellent. It really was a no brainer on Holland America.
As an experienced cruiser I would tell first-time cruiser that depending on your itinerary there can be a significant change in the weather along the way. You can have hot weather quickly change to chilly weather or even cold weather. We went from Miami through the tropics and the Panama Canal to San Francisco last year. We went from warm, to hot, to downright cold in the Pacific. Pack accordingly.
On our recent Jan-24 Australia- New Zealand cruise, my dad (who refuses to read on an e-reader) was disappointed to find that the Celebrity Edge has NO library! I asked at Guest Services and they had some books, in closed cabinets behind their desk, which they let me peruse. When I stopped in at the Captain’s Club, to get some prior cruises registered, they also had some novels available, but on book shelves behind someone’s desk. ☹️
We cruise often & I've learned that I enjoy scheduling 2 excursions max per sailing. On the 3rd port day we go to port and just enjoy the local shopping, dining, and internet. Forgoing the internet on my last cruise was our best decision ever. Unplugged in paradise. Yes, please.
Great tips for new cruisers! Another great topic to cover might be how to make your wardrobe last for longer cruises (capsule wardrobe, laundry services, febreeze, etc). You're an excellent presenter.
100% agree on the cabin size! I am so glad my husband and I decided to pay extra and get two side by side balcony cabins on our last cruise. Not only would it have been cramped but sharing a bathroom with two teenage girls would have been a challenge! 😂
I remember my first cruise was a 7 day Western Caribbean. And it was a learning experience since it was my first. But I have to say, I LOVED my sea days just as much as port days. On port days, we got up extra early to get off the ship and get to our excursions. Some ports, we went out sight seeing and shopping. But it was go-go-go-go. By the time we got back on the ship, I was exhausted from all the running around. So I LOVED the sea days. I could sleep in a bit, go hang by the pool for a few hours and relax and take a dip in the pool. I’d go do some activities like Bingo or trivia. And I’d go back to my room, take a nap and feel refreshed to go and roam the ship. It was my day to just relax and do whatever I wanted to do or whatever I just didn’t want to do 😊. I’m glad I had the Sea Days bc it gave me a chance to take it slow. I haven’t done a 7 day cruise in a while but I appreciated the Sea Days. And my next cruise is a 4 day cruise. I will enjoy my Sea Day and I now know not to overbook and not to try to get so much crammed in one day. I’m going to relax and enjoy the time I have at port too. 🚢
Never be afraid of passenger capacity numbers first time cruisers. You can always find an open area where you can relax and enjoy yourself, no matter what size ship you go on. Although lines will be expected at certain venues, your only real issue in terms of crowds will be elevators. So if you are a little claustrophobic, just wait for the next one.
I have definitely learned to love my sea days a lot more. Especially on those port heavy cruises. I love to bring an adult coloring book and my different color pens and sit on the balcony and color for hours or even find a quiet spot on the ship to sit and color. It’s very relaxing!
I was a travel agent for a decade and this is something I made sure to mention to my first time cruisers. Especially older cruisers. If you have watched countless episodes of the Love Boat...cruise ship cabins look nothing like that. Unless, of you have a suite.
Only been on one cruise, but will be taking my second cruise in a few weeks. One thing that some people might like to know is you can bring decorations for your door so when you’re looking for it down that long hallway, it’s a little easier to find. And also, it’s just a lot of fun.
There is a way to lessen the impact of leaving the ship and restores your land legs faster ,you focus on a straight line and keep walking , it helps to restore your balance as you keep yourself focused on a straight line or object in front of you .
I had no idea there was a name for the "land sickness". I experience this with every cruise. Glad I'm not the only one who gets this! I really enjoy all your informative video's Ilana😊
In August of 2022 my son and I went on our very first cruise ever - a Disney cruise - after the cruise we went to Walt Disney World in Florida for a week and I experienced the land sickness so I was experiencing the land sickness as I am trying to ride the rides with my son and keep up with him.. Oh man was that an experience I'll never try again lol.
37 days until our first cruise ever, from Melbourne to New Zealand. I'll be sure to look out for land sickness. Can't wait, thanks for all your tips. Watching your videos has made me much more confident.
Understand that NCL is BIG on port days. We had a port day sked EVERY day. Although we actually did not get to Split as the opening to the harbor is narrow and the seas were rough. But I DO love sea days. As a man, I find packing for a cruise easy. Our last cruise was 10days so it was basically 10 of everything. Socks, Ts, undies. One pair of black Dockers (hard to get them dirty) 3 Polos, 3 Hawaiians, 2 pairs navy shorts, 1 pair of slides and beach/pool shoes, one sweatshirt, one sweater plus what I wore on the plane out - jeans and a T and sneakers.
We did a 7 day cruise, that had only 1 Sea Day, and it was exhausting. The Sea Day was the first day, so we never got good rest after that. So staying on the ship during a port day is not a waste. I recommend listing your ports and excursions by priority so you know in advance what you can cut, if need be. It's not always an easy decision to make if you're not prepared. And there's no shortage of people online willing to tell you what skippable and what's not.
Wow, what cruise was this? Haven’t heard of a cruise not spreading out the port days. With my cruise, which just finished several days ago, would have been nice to get on land right away because I was so nauseated already. it took several sea days to get there for our first port. But that’s tough you didn’t have sea days in between for the most part. Hopefully you got a vacation from your vacation. Hehe
@@Happiness379 Sorry I didn't reply sooner... RUclips decided to bring this to my attention 2 months after the fact. It was a Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Rome. The ship sailed to Italy the first day and then port hopped back to Spain the rest of the cruise. We gave ourselves a few extra days after the cruise because we knew travel was going to be long.
I can't wait for sea days! I've only been on a 3 night cruise with no sea days. Our first 7 night is later this year! I noticed in shopping for which itinerary to take, "port-heavy" cruises are more expensive due to increased taxes and port fees. Each stop incurs port docking fees that the cruise line passes on to you. So less stops and more sea days might be good for the wallet and not just for more time to explore the ship.
Two things-I love the post-cruise Land syndrome that makes you feel that you are still on the ship, even while in bed, and secondly, yes, you can order (an) additional entre(s) but the waiters /servers don’t like it because it disrupts their schedule and rhythm, and slows their serving main course to your table and also to other tables in their section. FINALLY, on debarkation, engaging /paying a porter a tip will get you through the lines more quickly! They have skills and techniques!
Yes! Thank you for mentioning land sickness. This almost always affects me and my kids, and people think we're making it up! The longer the cruise, the longer it lasts.
This is interesting! I just got back from a three week cruise. My first time for this long duration. Typically it’s a one or two week cruise duration. I felt more weird after arrival this time around. But just like after any cruise, when I wake up, and start to walk around, I start to bump into the wall. Can’t walk straight for a while. Lol
I’ve definitely experienced “land sickness” but it was absolutely no big deal other than just being a weird feeling. It was the day after our first cruise which was 7 days in the western Caribbean. We went to get lunch at a fast food restaurant and whike sitting and eating I suddenly felt like the whole restaurant was floating and gently swaying. The sensation only lasted for a minute or two and then passed. I didn’t feel sick or nauseous or anything. I never experience any level of motion sickness in cars, planes or ships. Thank you for mentioning this. I’ve never heard anyone mention this before. 👍👍👍👍
I LOVE that feeling like your still on the ship after cruising! Makes the cruise last just a little longer. Close your eyes and you are still at sea! Makes me sad when it goes away.
Story about Mal Debarqment: I was sitting in a bar in Cozumel with a friend. Some girls from the cruise were seated behind us and were talking about how it felt like the land was moving under them. I turned around and told them they were feeling the island floating on the ocean, that Cozumel was one of the famous Floating Islands of Mexico. Talked about how the dessert, Floating Islands, was named after these famous Mexican islands. They were taking it in, hook, line, nad sinker, until I could not hold my laughter in anymore. I confessed and we all had a good laugh. BTW, it has been 20 years since I last cruised and I am enjoying your videos as I prep for a cruise in February out of Charleston.
That’s great you’ll be back cruising again. Have a great time. That’s a funny story. So brave of you to share a fictional story so believable to other guests.
I also had land sickness after my first cruise. As you said, it lasted maybe a couple of days and went away on its own. The floor seemed to move just a little as I walked. For your viewer’s knowledge, I personally didn’t feel this while driving the car, so I was ok to drive. People just thought I’d had one too many when I started to walk. 😂 I just finished my 11th cruise and only experienced land sickness after the first one.
Yeah, I had a 2.5 hour drive from the port and felt perfectly fine walking to the car and driving home. It wasn’t until I was home for a bit when I started feeling the Wobblies.
I so wish I had known about mal de débarquement! I just went on my first cruise Dec 22, 2022-Jan 2, 2023. I had no seasickness whatsoever and adjusted well to the movement of the ship, even enjoyed it. We were all the way in the aft and felt a lot of movement, but again, it didn't bother me. I didn't know how I would react so I had sea bands, ginger candies, and Bonine. Packing at the end of the cruise I put them in my checked bag thinking "Well, I never needed these but better safe than sorry!" Once I got to the airport after the cruise, I started feeling kind of funny. Like the ground was swaying just like it was on the ship. It made me really dizzy and I ended up throwing up 5 times at the airport. I didn't even have the seasickness meds to see if that would help (checked bag). They were sold out of everything at the little airport shop, too. The dizziness and feeling that my body was still reacting to waves didn't subside until after 5 days, although the nausea lasted only 1 day. I disembarked on Monday and went back to work on Friday (flight problems on the way back), and I was still so dizzy I thought I was going to fall out of my chair. I had no idea what was wrong until I googled it. My husband had no problems, lucky duck. 🤷 My advice to other newbies: don't pack away your seasickness meds after the cruise- keep them with you! I wish I had. And now I totally understand why Jack Sparrow walks so funny on land but totally normal on boats! He still has his sea legs. 😛
I used to work on a small fishing boat, number 8 I delt with every day. Was fun at home looking down a small staircase that you must get down while it feels like the world is swaying. Everytime I thought is the time I falling down the stairs and never did. I just delt with it and within a few hours it'd go away.
I’ve experienced the “land sickness” before - but only after I’d stayed in a forward cabin. It lasted for almost a week. I just naturally let it pass. Every since then I only book midship cabins. I absolutely love sea days! I feel like those are my relaxing days on cruise vacation. I can do a little or a lot or nothing at all.
I've never heard of land sickness but it makes so much sense - a few of my friends struggled with it after our first cruise together and I even experienced it after a train ride that swayed a lot. I had no idea what was going on but I felt motion sick and dizzy about an hour afterwards, walking into a restaurant. Good to know that it's a thing.
My recommendation for first time cruisers is: unless you really want to do a lot of walking, book a cabin midship. My recent cruise to Alaska was very difficult for me because my cabin was the very first forward cabin and almost every place I was going was aft. Unfortunately for me, my sciatica reared it's head right at the beginning of the cruise and I was in a lot of pain while walking. That kept me from participating in some activities because of the walking distance.
Oh land sickness! Ay ay ay!! I had that for over a WEEK after our first cruise 15 years ago!! I was so glad that I had purchased 100 meclizine (generic Bonine) tablets because I needed them for about 10 days post-cruise. When I went back to work, the 1x1 floor tiles in the closest ladies room made me so nauseous because they appeared to be undulating like waves! I had to go find another restroom with different flooring!
I have experienced land sickness after every single cruise. Fortunately I don't get nauseous , it really makes me long to be back on the ship again. Lol It passes after a couple of days. What I find funny is that it never affects me on excursions, only after debarkation.
I am on Day One of my 11 day cruise on the NCL Dawn. I am savoring every moment in part because of the valuable videos you have provided. I also purchased the Cruise Planner and really found it helpful. I plan to make a video to thank you following this cruise. I have brought your Cruise Planner with me. Thank you, Ilana!❤
In the past I would be land sick for weeks so my last 2 cruises I brought ginger root with me and started taking in on the cruise instead of waiting until after to take it.
And the taxes on drinks when you're in port......we drank as soon as we got on board in Port Canaveral and racked up about 10 dollars in taxes before the sail away party...just be Mindful when drinking when your on port
Another great video Illana so thank you. We went on our first cruise in march & tbh I think what played on my mind the most was nerves. I really found all your videos so helpful, so I really appreciate it. I was super excited but since I booked it for me & my partners 50th, I was nervous if he wouldn't maybe like it as much I would et, but he loved it so much and still talks about it. Once onboard & settled I was so relaxed and just went with the flow. The ship was only 1/3 full, we met some lovely ppl and tried new things. You just have to prepared for changes in the schedule cause we couldn't stop in Nicaragua (ongoing COVID restrictions) & don't let it ruin your cruise. The extra sea day was great. Also be prepared to get lost on the ship & just laugh it off 🤣.
I find the more I tip over the auto gratuities the better service I get. It is really all about the money. I tell people who never cruised before that they be prepared to spend a lot more money once on the ship than what they paid just to get on.
First day back home i seem to always have this wavy feeling sensation especially in my shower. It does go away after 1 day. Funny! Probably a reminder to book another cruise! 😆
As a rookie, I wish someone had suggested I bring a lanyard. We had to have our cards with us at all times & having a lanyard & plastic holder would have been helpful.
I wish cruise ships would do wristbands like “Jawbone or Fitbit” style ones that had room access, ship card, etc. Although I’m sure due to the potential for water exposure they wouldn’t fair well.
During a MEU (on a Navy ship, I was in the Marines) after we got our sea legs we got into formation on a Pier and while standing at attention we were all in sync swaying as if we were still on board.
I went on my first cruise and I was surprised by many of these things! I loved the sea days! Something I wish I knew on the first night was you have to order appetizers, entrées, and dessert at one time and you can order multiple dishes
After a cruise I have experienced the "movement" of the land -- needing to get my land legs. I sometimes just take naps for a couple of days and wearing my seabands for a few days.
As a person who sails on sailboats and spends multiple days per week I can say that I do for the 1st few sail get Land Sickness. This does pass and is not as bad as actual sea sickness (I have been out during heavy storms). As for days at sea these are my favorites and a reason why I want to do a trans-Atlantic so I get more of them.
For land sickness, get off ship , go sit and eat, by not moving and distracted a bit by eating, your body will adjust to non movement , that’s works for me but I never get any sickness at all
My land sickness lasted for 2 days. Every time I got off the boat I felt it. I would sway or rock when standing. I didn't feel sick I just felt like the land was moving.
Standing in our bathroom at home after the cruise was where I felt the motion sickness the most cause in the bathroom on the ship was where I could really feel it moving. Lol I felt like I was standing totally off balanced
I always get what I call "the waves" after a cruise except this last time. I don't even recall my husband complaining about it either and he gets it worse then I do. I was a bit of a rocky cruise (not so bad that I noticed people suffering from sea sickness). If you are traveling with kids find out if the ship has a launderette (self service). Cabin Stewards would know. That has saved me when my son was young. I love the port days most of the time, some ports we have been to so many times that it's not as exciting but I love the relaxing no rush routine of sea days.
In my twenties and thirties, I would definitely feel like I was still on a ship once I got back home. And it lasted for a week! Now that I'm older, I don't feel anything at all after a cruise.
I am going on my first cruise next month and have been going through all your videos but I think this is one of your best. That’s for the simple reason, no one points out these small details that are actually so important
In the process of booking my very first cruise. I have watched a TON of videos and never heard of the shops being closed on port days! So glad I am learning this, now. Also, I am going FOR the sea days, I don't really care about the ports! :) I am so excited. Thanks for your videos.
Me too! My "happy place" is in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight. This will be my first cruise though (I've only ever been on small boats), so I am SO excited!
Thanks for sharing your love of sea days. My first cruise, and am just wanting to enjoy the ride. Family members don’t understand why I’m not interested in the ports.
I went on my first cruise in August 2022 and surely enough when I came back to land I experienced the swaying you described. It actually bothered me quite a bit but I assumed it was normal. I didn't feel sick at all but I would feel myself sway while standing in the shower or laying in my bed. I experienced it for almost a week and all I did to help it pass was just let it pass. I'm already planning another cruise for 2024 lol
I have seen many of your videoas before my first cruise but not this one! I just came back and as I subscribed to your channel (very informative) this video poped out! One main thing I did not know was: where to get my key card! very basic but not mentioned on my itinerary and this is the most basic info you need on your first day. They were also no information about where all the cabins were located when you step onboard. I watched your videos on what to bring on your cruise and the most useful tips was to bring magnet hooks: that is genius and very helpful. I had 2 already in the cabin but they were placed in an awkward location and so high that you needed to be at least 6ft tall to reach them....
Yes, no one talks about the land motion. The more I cruise the less I feel it. It is always the worst when I go to bed...I can still feel the rock and roll.
Love your idea about magnetic hooks! Used them (the heavy duty ones!) on my last cruise and they were great for hats, small purses and backpacks, sweatshirts and coverups. Thanks!
Thanks so much for your great advice. We just got back from our 1st cruise and had the time of our life! We bought many of the items you suggested and some you didn't. They were all great! Returned the magnets which were junk and got the one's you suggested. Perfect 👌. Already looking for our next cruise adventure:) learned alot.
I bought most everything because of Llanas video. One thing I found out from another video is the square phone plug adapter doesn't work on Carnival Conquest so I purchased the one with the long cord (hope you know what I mean).
I just got off the Ovation of the Seas (Royal Caribbean). I got landsick!!! I have never been seasick in my life. I got off the ship and then drove the 8.5 hours from Sydney to Melbourne, Australia and was fine. I hopped in the shower and started feeling really woozy. I felt like the room was lurching. I felt that ill I was sick. By the next afternoon I was fine. I got to the point where I was enjoying it!
I've cruised a few times with a friend who gets sea sick. On one cruise, she wore a prescription sea sick patch. 1 1/2 - 2 days after we got off the ship she got really land sick. We hung out for a few hours then too a long walk in the woods - that really helped her get over it.
For me, land sickness was worse after my third and fourth cruise. And mine has lasted a couple of weeks. Next cruise, I plan to leave my patch on for a couple of days, and have green apples close by.
Finally someone is talking about mal de debarquement. Thank you! I get it after almost every cruise now. How bad it is varies. The one thing that seems to help is something I read about back when it first started happening. That is on the last day of the cruise, get on the treadmill and run/walk as fast as you can. I try for at least 15 minutes. Supposedly this was what people who ar at sea for a long time do when land sickness flares up for them. I’m not sure if it is true, but it works for me. I believe one time the Dr gave me Meclizine (Bonine). It also went away when I was driving (temporarily).
Thank you for mentioning that "Land Sickness" issue. It was only on my first cruise. but wow when I got home it felt like my whole house was moving. It lasted like 2 or 3 days, but it was a trip.
Mal debarquement - it’s possible I had some, but it was very minor, and I can’t offer anything to help it. I just let it run. It didn’t bother me and I never felt sick. 🤷♀️ One thing I did not know until recently (from watching various cruising videos), was that you could order more than one item from the MDR menu. I didn’t know that on my two cruises, and would have preferred to have something else for dinner. I’ll keep that in mind for my next cruise. 😊
So glad that there is a name for land sickness. My 11 year old son vomited on our drive home from the LA port after a 7 day cruise. He also gets land sick after a long flight! Thank you for your informative videos. I love your channel!
When it comes to the crowds for first time cruisers who may deal with claustrophobia or autism if you haven't booked yet in my experience you want to be on a ship with less than 3000, even if it's not crowded by the size of the ship, those who are sensitive it can be VERY overwhelming and make a vacation not as enjoyable. If you've already booked I found the library or the activities on port days were a great way for us to get to participate in games or entertainment with less people and noise
We are taking our first cruise this summer!!!!! Alaska. I am watching all of your videos and am finding them so very very helpful - it's like a whole other world out there and we can't wait to experience it and your videos are helping to make the most of it. Thank you.
I lived in Anchorage 1979 - 1995 and went back 2/2022 for Fur Rondy. If u can, have brkfst downtown @ Snow City and dinner across the street @ Simon & Seaforts (near Resolution Park-Capt Cook Monument)
I had land sickness after our first cruise. It took my by surprise, as I didn't even know it was a thing. It lasted around a week and was not nice at all. I found that going for a drive or keeping moving helped as much as possible helped. We're going on our second cruise this year. We're very excited!
You have said this before but worth repeating. if you are unhappy tell waiter not a fan can I have…. Instead. This is a great excuse to try something you wouldn’t spend money on if at a traditional restaurant. My kids learned at an early age to love a world of different foods
BTW - don't know if you have experienced big storms but that might be something to talk about. On our first cruise, western Caribbean, I checked for long range forecast and it had 82, 84, 62, 65.69, 71......I thought it was a computer glitch. After the first night we were supposed to be in Key West from early morning - and when I awoke, I realized that we were no where near land. The Captain came on the intercom to announce that there was a storm coming in and all ships had to leave ports. He added that this would change our route, and later in the day they would let us know details. As it was, we ended up in Cozumel twice - one the day after the storm, and a second time when it was originally scheduled on day 5. Varied tours were cancelled over the next days as the water had been churned into a sandy mix with higher than normal waves, and ones that were kept had 2 to 3 times the amount of people they should have had, which can make a first time snorkeling experience not particularly satisfying when you are constantly told to stay closer together - with 75 people in a group that was to be 30 tops, my husband said that he had never inadvertently touched or been touched by so many strangers, LOL. The evening of our unexpected sea day was a fancy dress, and my husband had rented a tux (this was probably 17-20 years ago on HAL), for pictures with the Captain. By mid afternoon the waves were growing significantly and few people were about. When the time came for first seating, we got dressed but had no intention of going to dinner; I felt slightly light headed, and my husband said it was "in my head". As we were getting dressed - my husband suddenly got the icy sweats. We made it to stand in line at the entrance of the dining room for pictures, as our knees tried to adjust to the floor moving beneath us, occasionally falling and sometimes being a lot closer than expected. When we got to the start of the line, my husband was praying not to throw up on the Captain, and when the Captain told me to step closer to him, I tried to figure out how I was expected to move forward without falling on my face - my sense of space, up and down, had disappeared. We made it back to the cabin, where my husband did vomit, then went to bed and slept for 9 hours straight. I just got changed and tried wandering about. The ship placed crackers (saltines) at various places around the ship, as well as green Granny Smith apples, which disappeared a lot faster than the crackers. As it turned out, I think only 100-200 had dinner (I really want to say 75 to 150), but plates were falling off the servers areas and the tables in general for those that did go for dinner. We were told the next day that we were in gale force winds, getting close to hurricane speeds. Naturally(?) many people complained about the changes to our itinerary, and not having clothing for temps in the 60's and very low 70's, while someone commented that we must be Canadians since we had very light windbreakers with us *we thought thy might be need if walking on deck later at night) on a ship going south from Florida. LOL. I just thought that it was an incredible lesson about the power of Mother Nature.
I’ve been on 13 cruises and have experienced land sickness a few times. I noticed it mostly while taking showers the first day or two after a cruise where I still “feel” the boat rocking. I’ve also had a bit of dizziness and nausea afterwards. It’s nothing that would ever prevent me from cruising, I just take the Bonine and that helped. ❤️
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Taking my 5th cruise. Never had bad experience.
12:05
It could take HOURS for your luggage to get to your room on embarkation day. Make sure your carryon has anything you might need while you wait on you luggage. Like a swim suit and flip flops for the pool, the decorations for your door, your special coffee or drink mug or tumbler, a change of clothes, your makeup, medication, a book or your tablet, etc!!!
And phone charger 🔌! Thanks 🙏🏾
@@curtiserecacho1401 agreed - good catch!
recently divorced (3.5 years now) after 37 years to a bad dude. Talk about getting my sea legs? Can't believe I'm going on a cruise with about 20 pickleball friends in April. Beyond. thrilled. My first cruise ever. The Love Boat.haha.
I grew up on boats. Tip for land sickness: stay on steady roads or flat surfaces and hydrate hydrate hydrate!!!! Also it helps to stare at a fixed point while walking to keep balance
Agreed on the trick of staring at a fixed point. I usually feel the land sickness effect for the first day off ship and the fixed point focus takes care of it for me.
First day onboard we love to explore The ship.we start from the lowest deck And walk end to end, getting Higher on each deck untill we have seen everything.its The most exciting thing on The entire cruise
Thanks for mentioning 'Land Sickness' - I experienced it after my first cruise. I didn't necessarily feel sick, but when I went to bed the first night back home, I felt the bed going up and down. It was so strange - because I never felt any motion at all on the ship. The only time I felt any motion was back home the first night I went to bed on land. It's never happened again, but it was certainly a surprise when it happened.
I love the motion of the ocean and always miss it once the land stops moving. (Edited to add I have sometimes felt that land sickness style movements 48+ hours after getting off the ship)
Years ago I had a boyfriend with a large yacht, I still remember the very first time I got off _Marion_ and the land was still gently bobbing.
On a cruise, I love it when the sea is just a bit rough and movement is easily felt.
I just came back on Saturday and today I felt land sickness in the morning.....I was so surprised I didn't feel it yesterday
I never felt it until after my 5th cruise, for some reason.
I had it once and it lasted for quite a few days. My doctor recommended taking an antihistamine as it is caused by inner ear activity. After just one dose, I felt much better!
I look at it, at least for me as just getting my land legs back. My parents used to have a boat and I would feel it more coming back from a weekend on her, then I have from a ship. Totally to be expected of course as the Jomashan was only 36 ft. as opposed to the ship. She did have a steel hull, just like the big girls do.
Cruise tip.... read, read, read. Whatever Cruise Line you're booked with go to their site and read every topic that comes to mine. Read what I should pack. Read what I can not bring on board. Read what beverages may I bring on board. Read the alcoholic and wine policy. Read what is my responsibility regarding the muster drill. Read about what entertainment is provided for free. Read what documents do I need to bring to get on board. Additionally, check the country requirements based on your citizenship of what documents you need to enter their country and or any visas. It is your responsibility to educate yourself so read read read.
Ty!!
I've watched a lot of cruise videos (since I'm going on one for the first time) but this is the first one that mentioned land sickness/odd feeling and that the shops and casinos are closed during port time. Loved hearing about these things! Another great job Ilana!
Same. I have been watching tons of videos since I am going on my first cruise July 2024.
@@michellegrant6476we're going on our first cruise to Alaska in July. Watching videos to learn the good, the bad and the ugly. There's so much information! Not excited about the sea sickness and land sickness, but we'll take people's advice and hope for the best.
Something that nobody told us. If you are getting side by side rooms, get the ones with the doors next to each other. Also, most balcony dividers can be opened up so that you create one big balcony for two side-by-side rooms. We effectively created a connecting room by using the balcony as the connector.
Good point
I hadn't thought about the balcony divider! Thanks!
Good to know. My sister and I have adjoining rooms.
I love dock days, but sea days are the BEST. Sitting on the deck, looking over the water, breeze over you, cold beer in hand. Perfect.
Holland America offers an unlimited laundry package, which is very helpful for packing/planning purposes. We did a 14-night Holland America cruise in December and the package for our cabin for the entire cruise was $79. We sent clothes out almost every day and went home with our bags full of clean clothes! Well worth it because it also limits what you need to bring, and you don’t have to do laundry when you get home! 🥳🎉. As to the “land sickness”, I just drink for a couple more days when I get home so everything seems all normal. 😛😂🤣
That’s great!! Lol, maybe the drink tip will do it 😂
“Drink for a couple more days” ….I love your style 😊
@@JulieWallis1963 🥳😜😈
I'll agree with you on the laundry service, it was well worth it. Last June we were on a cruise from Alaska to Vancouver. We'd put our clothes in the bag and all most all the time we had them back that night. We were on Holland and the price was very reasonable.
@@miltonlentz8950 Agreed. The laundry service was very quick, efficient, inexpensive, and they did a great job with the clothes. All shirts (including T shirts) on hangers, shorts and pants on hangers, and everything else folded. Price is excellent. It really was a no brainer on Holland America.
As an experienced cruiser I would tell first-time cruiser that depending on your itinerary there can be a significant change in the weather along the way. You can have hot weather quickly change to chilly weather or even cold weather. We went from Miami through the tropics and the Panama Canal to San Francisco last year. We went from warm, to hot, to downright cold in the Pacific. Pack accordingly.
I always find the library, if the ship has one, is perfect if you want peace and quiet x
Good idea!
And leave books you read bit won’t read again!
On our recent Jan-24 Australia- New Zealand cruise, my dad (who refuses to read on an e-reader) was disappointed to find that the Celebrity Edge has NO library! I asked at Guest Services and they had some books, in closed cabinets behind their desk, which they let me peruse. When I stopped in at the Captain’s Club, to get some prior cruises registered, they also had some novels available, but on book shelves behind someone’s desk. ☹️
We cruise often & I've learned that I enjoy scheduling 2 excursions max per sailing. On the 3rd port day we go to port and just enjoy the local shopping, dining, and internet. Forgoing the internet on my last cruise was our best decision ever. Unplugged in paradise. Yes, please.
I’m kinda the same
Great tips for new cruisers! Another great topic to cover might be how to make your wardrobe last for longer cruises (capsule wardrobe, laundry services, febreeze, etc). You're an excellent presenter.
Great idea!
@@LifeWellCruised I would also love to see this!
100% agree on the cabin size! I am so glad my husband and I decided to pay extra and get two side by side balcony cabins on our last cruise. Not only would it have been cramped but sharing a bathroom with two teenage girls would have been a challenge! 😂
I’ve been binge watching your videos each night for like two weeks my first cruise isn’t until December but I’m excited and nervous at the same time
I remember my first cruise was a 7 day Western Caribbean. And it was a learning experience since it was my first. But I have to say, I LOVED my sea days just as much as port days. On port days, we got up extra early to get off the ship and get to our excursions. Some ports, we went out sight seeing and shopping. But it was go-go-go-go. By the time we got back on the ship, I was exhausted from all the running around. So I LOVED the sea days. I could sleep in a bit, go hang by the pool for a few hours and relax and take a dip in the pool. I’d go do some activities like Bingo or trivia. And I’d go back to my room, take a nap and feel refreshed to go and roam the ship. It was my day to just relax and do whatever I wanted to do or whatever I just didn’t want to do 😊. I’m glad I had the Sea Days bc it gave me a chance to take it slow. I haven’t done a 7 day cruise in a while but I appreciated the Sea Days. And my next cruise is a 4 day cruise. I will enjoy my Sea Day and I now know not to overbook and not to try to get so much crammed in one day. I’m going to relax and enjoy the time I have at port too. 🚢
Im leaving for my first cruise tomorrow!
Exciting!!! Enjoy 🛳🎉
So how was it?
Never be afraid of passenger capacity numbers first time cruisers. You can always find an open area where you can relax and enjoy yourself, no matter what size ship you go on. Although lines will be expected at certain venues, your only real issue in terms of crowds will be elevators. So if you are a little claustrophobic, just wait for the next one.
Or use the stairs.
I have definitely learned to love my sea days a lot more. Especially on those port heavy cruises. I love to bring an adult coloring book and my different color pens and sit on the balcony and color for hours or even find a quiet spot on the ship to sit and color. It’s very relaxing!
I was a travel agent for a decade and this is something I made sure to mention to my first time cruisers. Especially older cruisers. If you have watched countless episodes of the Love Boat...cruise ship cabins look nothing like that. Unless, of you have a suite.
Great tip to share!
Righhhtttt lol You surely made a great point. When I took my cruise for the first time, I did not have a room like on the Love boat lol
Only been on one cruise, but will be taking my second cruise in a few weeks. One thing that some people might like to know is you can bring decorations for your door so when you’re looking for it down that long hallway, it’s a little easier to find. And also, it’s just a lot of fun.
There is a way to lessen the impact of leaving the ship and restores your land legs faster ,you focus on a straight line and keep walking , it helps to restore your balance as you keep yourself focused on a straight line or object in front of you .
You have definitely become my go to for tips Ilana. You so bubbly and cute.
I had no idea there was a name for the "land sickness". I experience this with every cruise. Glad I'm not the only one who gets this! I really enjoy all your informative video's Ilana😊
Interesting that you get it each time. Does it go away on its own?
I also get land sickness after every cruise... I have it a little even after the 1st port of the cruise, but it doesn't stop me from cruising♥️
What surprised me most on my first cruise was the size of the pool. It was much smaller than I expected
Secret and hidden places in the ship! Love finding these! 🎉
In August of 2022 my son and I went on our very first cruise ever - a Disney cruise - after the cruise we went to Walt Disney World in Florida for a week and I experienced the land sickness so I was experiencing the land sickness as I am trying to ride the rides with my son and keep up with him.. Oh man was that an experience I'll never try again lol.
37 days until our first cruise ever, from Melbourne to New Zealand. I'll be sure to look out for land sickness. Can't wait, thanks for all your tips. Watching your videos has made me much more confident.
Understand that NCL is BIG on port days. We had a port day sked EVERY day. Although we actually did not get to Split as the opening to the harbor is narrow and the seas were rough. But I DO love sea days.
As a man, I find packing for a cruise easy. Our last cruise was 10days so it was basically 10 of everything. Socks, Ts, undies. One pair of black Dockers (hard to get them dirty) 3 Polos, 3 Hawaiians, 2 pairs navy shorts, 1 pair of slides and beach/pool shoes, one sweatshirt, one sweater plus what I wore on the plane out - jeans and a T and sneakers.
We did a 7 day cruise, that had only 1 Sea Day, and it was exhausting. The Sea Day was the first day, so we never got good rest after that. So staying on the ship during a port day is not a waste. I recommend listing your ports and excursions by priority so you know in advance what you can cut, if need be. It's not always an easy decision to make if you're not prepared. And there's no shortage of people online willing to tell you what skippable and what's not.
Wow, what cruise was this? Haven’t heard of a cruise not spreading out the port days. With my cruise, which just finished several days ago, would have been nice to get on land right away because I was so nauseated already. it took several sea days to get there for our first port. But that’s tough you didn’t have sea days in between for the most part. Hopefully you got a vacation from your vacation. Hehe
@@Happiness379 Sorry I didn't reply sooner... RUclips decided to bring this to my attention 2 months after the fact. It was a Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Rome. The ship sailed to Italy the first day and then port hopped back to Spain the rest of the cruise. We gave ourselves a few extra days after the cruise because we knew travel was going to be long.
I can't wait for sea days! I've only been on a 3 night cruise with no sea days. Our first 7 night is later this year! I noticed in shopping for which itinerary to take, "port-heavy" cruises are more expensive due to increased taxes and port fees. Each stop incurs port docking fees that the cruise line passes on to you. So less stops and more sea days might be good for the wallet and not just for more time to explore the ship.
Two things-I love the post-cruise Land syndrome that makes you feel that you are still on the ship, even while in bed, and secondly, yes, you can order (an) additional entre(s) but the waiters /servers don’t like it because it disrupts their schedule and rhythm, and slows their serving main course to your table and also to other tables in their section.
FINALLY, on debarkation, engaging /paying a porter a tip will get you through the lines more quickly! They have skills and techniques!
Great tips for beginners. My first cruise was the best experience ever, over 15 years ago.
Nothing beats the FIRST cruise ! Magical !!
When you give your speech at the beginning of your videos and move your hands I keep seeing Teresa Cuputo in my head lol.
Yes! Thank you for mentioning land sickness. This almost always affects me and my kids, and people think we're making it up! The longer the cruise, the longer it lasts.
I suffered from this SO BADLY after being on a sailing ship cruise (Royal Clipper). I felt like the floor on land was rolling. Ugh!
Oh no!! Thanks for sharing
All of us in the Navy know this. It's tons of fun
This is interesting! I just got back from a three week cruise. My first time for this long duration. Typically it’s a one or two week cruise duration. I felt more weird after arrival this time around. But just like after any cruise, when I wake up, and start to walk around, I start to bump into the wall. Can’t walk straight for a while. Lol
I’ve definitely experienced “land sickness” but it was absolutely no big deal other than just being a weird feeling. It was the day after our first cruise which was 7 days in the western Caribbean. We went to get lunch at a fast food restaurant and whike sitting and eating I suddenly felt like the whole restaurant was floating and gently swaying. The sensation only lasted for a minute or two and then passed. I didn’t feel sick or nauseous or anything. I never experience any level of motion sickness in cars, planes or ships.
Thank you for mentioning this. I’ve never heard anyone mention this before. 👍👍👍👍
I LOVE that feeling like your still on the ship after cruising! Makes the cruise last just a little longer. Close your eyes and you are still at sea! Makes me sad when it goes away.
Story about Mal Debarqment: I was sitting in a bar in Cozumel with a friend. Some girls from the cruise were seated behind us and were talking about how it felt like the land was moving under them. I turned around and told them they were feeling the island floating on the ocean, that Cozumel was one of the famous Floating Islands of Mexico. Talked about how the dessert, Floating Islands, was named after these famous Mexican islands. They were taking it in, hook, line, nad sinker, until I could not hold my laughter in anymore. I confessed and we all had a good laugh. BTW, it has been 20 years since I last cruised and I am enjoying your videos as I prep for a cruise in February out of Charleston.
Hahaha
That’s great you’ll be back cruising again. Have a great time. That’s a funny story. So brave of you to share a fictional story so believable to other guests.
@@Happiness379 I am cruising in February and am so excited to be going again!
I also had land sickness after my first cruise. As you said, it lasted maybe a couple of days and went away on its own. The floor seemed to move just a little as I walked. For your viewer’s knowledge, I personally didn’t feel this while driving the car, so I was ok to drive. People just thought I’d had one too many when I started to walk. 😂 I just finished my 11th cruise and only experienced land sickness after the first one.
Yeah, I had a 2.5 hour drive from the port and felt perfectly fine walking to the car and driving home. It wasn’t until I was home for a bit when I started feeling the Wobblies.
I so wish I had known about mal de débarquement! I just went on my first cruise Dec 22, 2022-Jan 2, 2023. I had no seasickness whatsoever and adjusted well to the movement of the ship, even enjoyed it. We were all the way in the aft and felt a lot of movement, but again, it didn't bother me. I didn't know how I would react so I had sea bands, ginger candies, and Bonine. Packing at the end of the cruise I put them in my checked bag thinking "Well, I never needed these but better safe than sorry!" Once I got to the airport after the cruise, I started feeling kind of funny. Like the ground was swaying just like it was on the ship. It made me really dizzy and I ended up throwing up 5 times at the airport. I didn't even have the seasickness meds to see if that would help (checked bag). They were sold out of everything at the little airport shop, too. The dizziness and feeling that my body was still reacting to waves didn't subside until after 5 days, although the nausea lasted only 1 day. I disembarked on Monday and went back to work on Friday (flight problems on the way back), and I was still so dizzy I thought I was going to fall out of my chair. I had no idea what was wrong until I googled it. My husband had no problems, lucky duck. 🤷
My advice to other newbies: don't pack away your seasickness meds after the cruise- keep them with you! I wish I had.
And now I totally understand why Jack Sparrow walks so funny on land but totally normal on boats! He still has his sea legs. 😛
Was that the Norwegian the Southern Caribbean from Tampa?
@@pensacola321 We were on the Celebrity Equinox (Southern Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale).
I used to work on a small fishing boat, number 8 I delt with every day. Was fun at home looking down a small staircase that you must get down while it feels like the world is swaying. Everytime I thought is the time I falling down the stairs and never did.
I just delt with it and within a few hours it'd go away.
I’ve experienced the “land sickness” before - but only after I’d stayed in a forward cabin. It lasted for almost a week. I just naturally let it pass. Every since then I only book midship cabins.
I absolutely love sea days! I feel like those are my relaxing days on cruise vacation. I can do a little or a lot or nothing at all.
I've never heard of land sickness but it makes so much sense - a few of my friends struggled with it after our first cruise together and I even experienced it after a train ride that swayed a lot. I had no idea what was going on but I felt motion sick and dizzy about an hour afterwards, walking into a restaurant. Good to know that it's a thing.
We didn’t have any sickness after cruising but the land was moving for 24 hrs !
I’ve had it after being on a fishing trawler it felt like I was walking on a kids blow up jumping castle very strange
I ended up having HARDCORE land sickness for 2 weeks after we got off our last cruise. It made me look crazy, stumbling around everywhere.
My recommendation for first time cruisers is: unless you really want to do a lot of walking, book a cabin midship. My recent cruise to Alaska was very difficult for me because my cabin was the very first forward cabin and almost every place I was going was aft. Unfortunately for me, my sciatica reared it's head right at the beginning of the cruise and I was in a lot of pain while walking. That kept me from participating in some activities because of the walking distance.
Oh land sickness! Ay ay ay!! I had that for over a WEEK after our first cruise 15 years ago!! I was so glad that I had purchased 100 meclizine (generic Bonine) tablets because I needed them for about 10 days post-cruise. When I went back to work, the 1x1 floor tiles in the closest ladies room made me so nauseous because they appeared to be undulating like waves! I had to go find another restroom with different flooring!
I always check the temperatures on my weather app for where I'm going and where I'm coming back to for appropriate clothing.
I have experienced land sickness after every single cruise. Fortunately I don't get nauseous , it really makes me long to be back on the ship again. Lol It passes after a couple of days. What I find funny is that it never affects me on excursions, only after debarkation.
I am on Day One of my 11 day cruise on the NCL Dawn. I am savoring every moment in part because of the valuable videos you have provided. I also purchased the Cruise Planner and really found it helpful. I plan to make a video to thank you following this cruise. I have brought your Cruise Planner with me. Thank you, Ilana!❤
I’m so glad you’re enjoying!! Have fun & thanks for your purchase:)
In the past I would be land sick for weeks so my last 2 cruises I brought ginger root with me and started taking in on the cruise instead of waiting until after to take it.
And the taxes on drinks when you're in port......we drank as soon as we got on board in Port Canaveral and racked up about 10 dollars in taxes before the sail away party...just be Mindful when drinking when your on port
Another great video Illana so thank you. We went on our first cruise in march & tbh I think what played on my mind the most was nerves. I really found all your videos so helpful, so I really appreciate it. I was super excited but since I booked it for me & my partners 50th, I was nervous if he wouldn't maybe like it as much I would et, but he loved it so much and still talks about it. Once onboard & settled I was so relaxed and just went with the flow. The ship was only 1/3 full, we met some lovely ppl and tried new things. You just have to prepared for changes in the schedule cause we couldn't stop in Nicaragua (ongoing COVID restrictions) & don't let it ruin your cruise. The extra sea day was great. Also be prepared to get lost on the ship & just laugh it off 🤣.
So glad the cruise went well! Lol, so true the ship can be disorienting
Get lost on a ship,just ask a cruise member problem solved!
Your video is so much more informative than others I’ve seen thanks
About changing clothes - I buy t-shirt dresses to sleep in then wear them next morning or use them as swim suit coverups.
I find the more I tip over the auto gratuities the better service I get. It is really all about the money. I tell people who never cruised before that they be prepared to spend a lot more money once on the ship than what they paid just to get on.
First day back home i seem to always have this wavy feeling sensation especially in my shower. It does go away after 1 day. Funny! Probably a reminder to book another cruise! 😆
Sea days are very relaxing, loved them just as as our Port days!!!!
As a rookie, I wish someone had suggested I bring a lanyard. We had to have our cards with us at all times & having a lanyard & plastic holder would have been helpful.
Good tip
I wish cruise ships would do wristbands like “Jawbone or Fitbit” style ones that had room access, ship card, etc. Although I’m sure due to the potential for water exposure they wouldn’t fair well.
During a MEU (on a Navy ship, I was in the Marines) after we got our sea legs we got into formation on a Pier and while standing at attention we were all in sync swaying as if we were still on board.
I went on my first cruise and I was surprised by many of these things! I loved the sea days! Something I wish I knew on the first night was you have to order appetizers, entrées, and dessert at one time and you can order multiple dishes
After a cruise I have experienced the "movement" of the land -- needing to get my land legs. I sometimes just take naps for a couple of days and wearing my seabands for a few days.
As a person who sails on sailboats and spends multiple days per week I can say that I do for the 1st few sail get Land Sickness. This does pass and is not as bad as actual sea sickness (I have been out during heavy storms).
As for days at sea these are my favorites and a reason why I want to do a trans-Atlantic so I get more of them.
For land sickness, get off ship , go sit and eat, by not moving and distracted a bit by eating, your body will adjust to non movement , that’s works for me but I never get any sickness at all
I had a couple adjustment days to get my land legs back. Pretty funky!
My land sickness lasted for 2 days. Every time I got off the boat I felt it. I would sway or rock when standing. I didn't feel sick I just felt like the land was moving.
Standing in our bathroom at home after the cruise was where I felt the motion sickness the most cause in the bathroom on the ship was where I could really feel it moving. Lol I felt like I was standing totally off balanced
I always get what I call "the waves" after a cruise except this last time. I don't even recall my husband complaining about it either and he gets it worse then I do. I was a bit of a rocky cruise (not so bad that I noticed people suffering from sea sickness). If you are traveling with kids find out if the ship has a launderette (self service). Cabin Stewards would know. That has saved me when my son was young. I love the port days most of the time, some ports we have been to so many times that it's not as exciting but I love the relaxing no rush routine of sea days.
In my twenties and thirties, I would definitely feel like I was still on a ship once I got back home. And it lasted for a week! Now that I'm older, I don't feel anything at all after a cruise.
First cruise- loved sea days! So much to do on board!
I am going on my first cruise next month and have been going through all your videos but I think this is one of your best. That’s for the simple reason, no one points out these small details that are actually so important
We are going on our first cruise and I am very thankful for all of your videos. They are lifesavers.
In the process of booking my very first cruise. I have watched a TON of videos and never heard of the shops being closed on port days! So glad I am learning this, now. Also, I am going FOR the sea days, I don't really care about the ports! :) I am so excited. Thanks for your videos.
That’s awesome! You’ll love the sea days :)
Me too! My "happy place" is in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight. This will be my first cruise though (I've only ever been on small boats), so I am SO excited!
Thanks for sharing your love of sea days. My first cruise, and am just wanting to enjoy the ride. Family members don’t understand why I’m not interested in the ports.
We had the wobbly legs after our first cruise but didn't realize we could take something for it. I'm way more prepared for our upcoming cruise.
i love your videos, they get me so excited for my upcoming cruise. I haven't been able to cruise for 3 years because of covid!😘
I went on my first cruise in August 2022 and surely enough when I came back to land I experienced the swaying you described. It actually bothered me quite a bit but I assumed it was normal. I didn't feel sick at all but I would feel myself sway while standing in the shower or laying in my bed. I experienced it for almost a week and all I did to help it pass was just let it pass. I'm already planning another cruise for 2024 lol
You get that feeling from roller coasters. I think anytime you are on a boat you will get that wave feeling when on land. 😊
I have seen many of your videoas before my first cruise but not this one! I just came back and as I subscribed to your channel (very informative) this video poped out! One main thing I did not know was: where to get my key card! very basic but not mentioned on my itinerary and this is the most basic info you need on your first day. They were also no information about where all the cabins were located when you step onboard. I watched your videos on what to bring on your cruise and the most useful tips was to bring magnet hooks: that is genius and very helpful. I had 2 already in the cabin but they were placed in an awkward location and so high that you needed to be at least 6ft tall to reach them....
Land Legs is REAL! I just waited it out for a few days.
Yes, no one talks about the land motion. The more I cruise the less I feel it. It is always the worst when I go to bed...I can still feel the rock and roll.
I know what a tender port is but maybe you want to explain that for first time cruising folks? Thank you for another great video!!
Love your idea about magnetic hooks! Used them (the heavy duty ones!) on my last cruise and they were great for hats, small purses and backpacks, sweatshirts and coverups. Thanks!
Thanks so much for your great advice. We just got back from our 1st cruise and had the time of our life! We bought many of the items you suggested and some you didn't. They were all great! Returned the magnets which were junk and got the one's you suggested. Perfect 👌. Already looking for our next cruise adventure:) learned alot.
That’s awesome!! So glad the advice has been helpful
I bought most everything because of Llanas video. One thing I found out from another video is the square phone plug adapter doesn't work on Carnival Conquest so I purchased the one with the long cord (hope you know what I mean).
I just got off the Ovation of the Seas (Royal Caribbean). I got landsick!!! I have never been seasick in my life. I got off the ship and then drove the 8.5 hours from Sydney to Melbourne, Australia and was fine. I hopped in the shower and started feeling really woozy. I felt like the room was lurching. I felt that ill I was sick. By the next afternoon I was fine. I got to the point where I was enjoying it!
Thanks for all of your videos. I just got back from my first cruise girls trip and I was so prepared. I was the envy of the girls trip.
Lol love it!!
I've cruised a few times with a friend who gets sea sick. On one cruise, she wore a prescription sea sick patch. 1 1/2 - 2 days after we got off the ship she got really land sick. We hung out for a few hours then too a long walk in the woods - that really helped her get over it.
For me, land sickness was worse after my third and fourth cruise. And mine has lasted a couple of weeks. Next cruise, I plan to leave my patch on for a couple of days, and have green apples close by.
Finally someone is talking about mal de debarquement. Thank you! I get it after almost every cruise now. How bad it is varies. The one thing that seems to help is something I read about back when it first started happening. That is on the last day of the cruise, get on the treadmill and run/walk as fast as you can. I try for at least 15 minutes. Supposedly this was what people who ar at sea for a long time do when land sickness flares up for them. I’m not sure if it is true, but it works for me. I believe one time the Dr gave me Meclizine (Bonine). It also went away when I was driving (temporarily).
How interesting! Thanks for sharing
Thank you for mentioning that "Land Sickness" issue. It was only on my first cruise. but wow when I got home it felt like my whole house was moving. It lasted like 2 or 3 days, but it was a trip.
Just got home from my first cruise. Was perfectly fine on the ship but definitely feeling the land sickness now!
I get "land sickness" frequently and have found if I take Meclizine it goes away. I do have a history of car sickness when I was young.
Mal debarquement - it’s possible I had some, but it was very minor, and I can’t offer anything to help it. I just let it run. It didn’t bother me and I never felt sick. 🤷♀️
One thing I did not know until recently (from watching various cruising videos), was that you could order more than one item from the MDR menu. I didn’t know that on my two cruises, and would have preferred to have something else for dinner. I’ll keep that in mind for my next cruise. 😊
So glad that there is a name for land sickness. My 11 year old son vomited on our drive home from the LA port after a 7 day cruise. He also gets land sick after a long flight! Thank you for your informative videos. I love your channel!
When it comes to the crowds for first time cruisers who may deal with claustrophobia or autism if you haven't booked yet in my experience you want to be on a ship with less than 3000, even if it's not crowded by the size of the ship, those who are sensitive it can be VERY overwhelming and make a vacation not as enjoyable. If you've already booked I found the library or the activities on port days were a great way for us to get to participate in games or entertainment with less people and noise
First timer! Thanks for all the info!
We are taking our first cruise this summer!!!!! Alaska. I am watching all of your videos and am finding them so very very helpful - it's like a whole other world out there and we can't wait to experience it and your videos are helping to make the most of it. Thank you.
I lived in Anchorage 1979 - 1995 and went back 2/2022 for Fur Rondy.
If u can, have brkfst downtown @ Snow City and dinner across the street @ Simon & Seaforts (near Resolution Park-Capt Cook Monument)
I had land sickness after our first cruise. It took my by surprise, as I didn't even know it was a thing. It lasted around a week and was not nice at all. I found that going for a drive or keeping moving helped as much as possible helped.
We're going on our second cruise this year. We're very excited!
My brother in law wears his patch after the cruise too.
You have said this before but worth repeating. if you are unhappy tell waiter not a fan can I have…. Instead. This is a great excuse to try something you wouldn’t spend money on if at a traditional restaurant. My kids learned at an early age to love a world of different foods
Ive had similar to land sickness from a day at an amusement park with a lot of coasters...
BTW - don't know if you have experienced big storms but that might be something to talk about. On our first cruise, western Caribbean, I checked for long range forecast and it had 82, 84, 62, 65.69, 71......I thought it was a computer glitch. After the first night we were supposed to be in Key West from early morning - and when I awoke, I realized that we were no where near land. The Captain came on the intercom to announce that there was a storm coming in and all ships had to leave ports. He added that this would change our route, and later in the day they would let us know details. As it was, we ended up in Cozumel twice - one the day after the storm, and a second time when it was originally scheduled on day 5. Varied tours were cancelled over the next days as the water had been churned into a sandy mix with higher than normal waves, and ones that were kept had 2 to 3 times the amount of people they should have had, which can make a first time snorkeling experience not particularly satisfying when you are constantly told to stay closer together - with 75 people in a group that was to be 30 tops, my husband said that he had never inadvertently touched or been touched by so many strangers, LOL.
The evening of our unexpected sea day was a fancy dress, and my husband had rented a tux (this was probably 17-20 years ago on HAL), for pictures with the Captain. By mid afternoon the waves were growing significantly and few people were about. When the time came for first seating, we got dressed but had no intention of going to dinner; I felt slightly light headed, and my husband said it was "in my head". As we were getting dressed - my husband suddenly got the icy sweats. We made it to stand in line at the entrance of the dining room for pictures, as our knees tried to adjust to the floor moving beneath us, occasionally falling and sometimes being a lot closer than expected. When we got to the start of the line, my husband was praying not to throw up on the Captain, and when the Captain told me to step closer to him, I tried to figure out how I was expected to move forward without falling on my face - my sense of space, up and down, had disappeared. We made it back to the cabin, where my husband did vomit, then went to bed and slept for 9 hours straight. I just got changed and tried wandering about. The ship placed crackers (saltines) at various places around the ship, as well as green Granny Smith apples, which disappeared a lot faster than the crackers. As it turned out, I think only 100-200 had dinner (I really want to say 75 to 150), but plates were falling off the servers areas and the tables in general for those that did go for dinner.
We were told the next day that we were in gale force winds, getting close to hurricane speeds. Naturally(?) many people complained about the changes to our itinerary, and not having clothing for temps in the 60's and very low 70's, while someone commented that we must be Canadians since we had very light windbreakers with us *we thought thy might be need if walking on deck later at night) on a ship going south from Florida. LOL. I just thought that it was an incredible lesson about the power of Mother Nature.
I’ve been on 13 cruises and have experienced land sickness a few times. I noticed it mostly while taking showers the first day or two after a cruise where I still “feel” the boat rocking. I’ve also had a bit of dizziness and nausea afterwards. It’s nothing that would ever prevent me from cruising, I just take the Bonine and that helped. ❤️