20 Rookie Cruise Questions You Might be Too Embarrassed to Ask

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  • Опубликовано: 15 июл 2024
  • During your first cruise, you'll undoubtedly have some questions that you're too embarrassed to ask. This video is for you! However, there are no dumb cruise questions!
    In this video, we'll go over 20 rookie cruise questions that you're probably too embarrassed to ask. After this video, you'll be cruising with ease.
    From common cruise questions to really wacky travel questions, I answer what some may call the dumb or stupid cruise questions. This video is full of cruise tips for first time cruisers!
    Whether you are cruising for the first time with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises or any other cruise line, this video will be helpful for your cruise vacation.
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Комментарии • 483

  • @LifeWellCruised
    @LifeWellCruised  10 месяцев назад +1

    Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limted time). Details here: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/

  • @jeannietarrance9855
    @jeannietarrance9855 11 месяцев назад +172

    While shopping in a gift store on board, a lady wanted to make a purchase. She turned to me and said, "How do you pay for this since they don't accept cash?" She explained it was her first cruise ever and was confused by the cashless system. Other people around us rolled their eyes, and I could tell she was embarrassed. I simply told them, "Your credit card is linked to your cruise card, and you can buy what you want on the ship." I think of that every time I feel impatient or embarrassed whether I am on a ship or anywhere else. 😊

    • @kathleenardrey5094
      @kathleenardrey5094 11 месяцев назад +22

      You are a gracious and thoughtful person!

    • @kathleenardrey5094
      @kathleenardrey5094 11 месяцев назад +12

      What a gracious and thoughtful gesture. You are a lovely person. peace

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  11 месяцев назад +18

      So true, we can forget that it’s not obvious

    • @susanhatch7366
      @susanhatch7366 11 месяцев назад +15

      I didn’t know it was cashless! My first cruise isn’t until next year!

    • @sosoblessed1
      @sosoblessed1 11 месяцев назад +32

      I hate when people act as if they were never a first time cruiser. A little kindness and patience go a long way.

  • @rapunzel1701
    @rapunzel1701 11 месяцев назад +87

    Remember folks, the water coming out of you bathroom sink is the same water they use for ice, cooking and serving in the dining room. It's all perfectly safe.

  • @travelwithdebandnick
    @travelwithdebandnick 11 месяцев назад +33

    My poor elderly mum on her first cruise with us last year was so confused. She kept thinking that she had to pay in the main dining room and other complimentary venues of our ship we sailed on, that she had to pay for her meals and she was really worried she would not have enough onboard credit to pay for each meal. Every meal she asked how much it cost. It broke my heart to see her so out of her comfort zone and so confused. Hopefully on our royal carribean Cruise next march she isn't so confused

    • @kenbrown2808
      @kenbrown2808 9 месяцев назад +2

      I can understand. we rode first class on Britrail, and when the sandwich trolley came through, my wife asked how much it cost. you might remind her before meals that the meal is free with the cruise.

    • @travelwithdebandnick
      @travelwithdebandnick 9 месяцев назад

      ​@@kenbrown2808yeah I might remind her with each meal :) good advice ❤

    • @jodeegu
      @jodeegu 8 месяцев назад +2

      We are taking my husband’s mom on her first cruise for her 86th birthday and she has mild dementia, so we’re planning on handling it the way we do in restaurants at home, “Don’t worry, we’ve got it. You can buy next time.” We’re thinking that for this trip we might tell her that since it’s her birthday, the cruise line surprised us by giving her everything she wants for free to celebrate. We kind of suspect she might enjoy that 😊

    • @travelwithdebandnick
      @travelwithdebandnick 8 месяцев назад

      awww thats a beautiful idea ) my mum has conversion disorder with dementia symptoms so i do understand. my mum is 73

  • @anitaclue9868
    @anitaclue9868 11 месяцев назад +16

    Learned from 1st cruise….any illusion you have of the sea breeze gently whispering by your clothes and hair only exists on the big screen. 😂It’s like being at the beach on a moving vessel. Consider bike shorts under short dresses, find solutions for keeping your hair from whipping you in the eyes. Too many ladies walking around holding dress down with one hand and their other hand holding their hair back…..plan ahead and enjoy the deck experience. 😊

    • @lisamangione2336
      @lisamangione2336 11 месяцев назад +4

      Those are definitely 2 dirty little secrets that nobody every tells you! My first cruise I did my hair all nice for formal night with a shortish dress on and by the time I walked from our cabin to dinner, I was a disheveled mess! Long skirts and hair ties are a must!

    • @anitaclue9868
      @anitaclue9868 11 месяцев назад

      @@lisamangione2336 absolutely 🤣

  • @donbarron5349
    @donbarron5349 11 месяцев назад +34

    The clothes you use at the start of your cruise won't necessarily fit towards the end of your cruise😢

    • @fyrtalker
      @fyrtalker 10 месяцев назад +1

      😂😂😂

    • @DanielMcKay-kh6ke
      @DanielMcKay-kh6ke 3 месяца назад +1

      😂😂😂😂😂 that’s actually my plan 😂😂😂😂

    • @jerisullivan1290
      @jerisullivan1290 3 месяца назад +2

      Save your stretchy pants for the end of the cruise.😊😊

  • @monymony68
    @monymony68 11 месяцев назад +30

    I had an early boarding time on NCL Jewel (I think it was 11-11:30). When I got on board, there were many passengers in the community areas and especially near the bar. I heard a passenger’s name being called on the PA system and I wondered why they kept paging him. A few minutes later, I saw a very drunk man being escorted by security. He was very irate and cursing profanities . I later found out he was from the previous cruise and didn’t disembark. 😂

    • @jdoe836
      @jdoe836 10 месяцев назад +5

      That's also a good way to be banned from the cruise line...

    • @elisaastorino2881
      @elisaastorino2881 10 месяцев назад

      ​@@jdoe836deservedly so

  • @rh4267
    @rh4267 11 месяцев назад +13

    As experienced cruisers we like to help out people if they are unsure about something. It’s a great way to meet people and we have enjoyed spending time with people we have met this way. It also a great way to enjoy the cruise experience yourself by helping others enjoy the cruising life.

  • @julier8564
    @julier8564 11 месяцев назад +14

    On my first (3-4 night) cruise 25 years ago, I did not know you could order multiple items in the MDR. I would stress about whether to order soup, salad or appetizer for example and you really can order all of these. It seems the rule is just that you must finish (either eat or just be done with what you want to eat) and they remove the plate before bringing the next. Same seems to be with main entree; if you want to try two things you can order both. If you are comfortable with it, you can also share choices with your travel companion so you don't waste too much food and get to try more choices. Also, I never knew about included room service until the cruise was done. After I learned that it was available, we had room service breakfast nearly every day on my next (15 night) cruise because it was a great way to wake up and still get to lounge in pj's and not be fully presentable for public! Oh, still didn't learn that it's not necessarily just predetermined breakfast items but you can order your own selections as well until almost the end of that cruise. We were getting tired of "egg mc muffins" and yogurt! And on disembarkation day we met a family as we were waiting our turn that also had no idea about room service. Moral here...certain things are not well advertised so, just ask lots of questions! Especially ask, "is there an extra charge?" It's so helpful to have these types of videos to cover the range of questions. I never knew (after 2 cruises) that the walls are metallic and you can use hooks and clips, for example. And, in my experience, I have had to prove the need for an accessible cabin or risk losing it. Please remember that disabilities may not be fully obvious so be considerate and don't take a "limited availability" accessible room away from a truly needy passenger just to get a bigger cabin. Remember you probably will only be in that cabin to sleep and get ready to leave for some other activity on board or off anyways! Thanks for reading a lengthy comment! 😂

    • @beesonshort2627
      @beesonshort2627 11 месяцев назад +2

      We were surprised on 1 cruise when our inside guaranty cabin turned out to be an accessible cabin. We are not physically impaired so felt bad. When we asked the cabin steward, he told us that there wasn't a need for that type by others. The 1st & only time when we were able to shower together in a cruise cabin. 😂😂

  • @elisaastorino2881
    @elisaastorino2881 10 месяцев назад +13

    I was a teacher and one of the first things we learned to tell students is that there are no stupid questions. 😉 Being a novice myself (only 2 cruises) I really appreciate your channel!

    • @judithstrachan9399
      @judithstrachan9399 4 месяца назад +1

      My first job, I was told, “Don’t be afraid to ask a stupid question. They’re easier to deal with than stupid mistakes.”
      I’ve always remembered.

  • @simonsarpy538
    @simonsarpy538 11 месяцев назад +46

    I caught myself using my hands telling a group of clients , if you find this helpful or enjoyable please let me know. Great job

    • @whatlizziepresents
      @whatlizziepresents 11 месяцев назад +1

      😂

    • @rallegra
      @rallegra 11 месяцев назад

      😅

    • @rallegra
      @rallegra 11 месяцев назад

      I’m totally going to do that the next time I do a work presentation and see how people respond.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  10 месяцев назад +2

      Haha love it!!

  • @feoman
    @feoman 11 месяцев назад +13

    Tip #21: Make sure the clothes you plan on taking on the cruise fit you in the manner you wish them to fit 🤭🤭 otherwise that T-shirt you buy at the port will become a "need"

    • @beesonshort2627
      @beesonshort2627 11 месяцев назад +6

      Tip #22. Wear your form fitting clothes early in the week.

  • @dianec9456
    @dianec9456 11 месяцев назад +12

    My first cruise was in 2008 and I had NO idea what was "normal" - there weren't channels like this to help me. We were on our honeymoon and I had no idea that we could request a separate table at dinner. We sat with a family of four for the week...they were really nice, but a few times, conversation became awkward because the mom would ask us what we had done that day and the husband would say, "Marge... they're on their honeymoon!" lol. It's so funny - we still joke about it. :D I was so naive about travel back then. I'm sure there was a ton of stuff to do on the ship, but honestly, I don't remember. We would get off the ship at the ports and meander around the towns (no real clue about excursions), then we'd take a "nap" when we got back, get ready for dinner, then see a show in the evening. I didn't know anything! I thought that you only ate at the buffet for breakfast and lunch, and only at the dining room for dinner. We're going on our second cruise next April and I have soooooo much more info thanks to channels like yours! Thank you so much!!

  • @rwgillespie57
    @rwgillespie57 11 месяцев назад +34

    Our very first cruise we booked a guarantee balcony, and we received a wonderful midship balcony with the extra large balcony.
    Despite this luck, we have always carefully chosen our cabin ourselves since then.

    • @lennybuttz2162
      @lennybuttz2162 11 месяцев назад +1

      My only worry would be getting stuck with an obstructed view, other than that I wouldn't care what deck I was on, for, aft or mid.

    • @jdoe836
      @jdoe836 10 месяцев назад +2

      Or worse, getting a stateroom right off the main atrium where is constantly noisy.

  • @cruisecrazy7066
    @cruisecrazy7066 11 месяцев назад +10

    I had to let the ship choose my cabin on a recent Princess cruise as there were no cabins left. They gave me the smallest, crappiest cabin I have ever seen. It even had folded upper Murphy beds extending over the bed, so I had to stoop over to get along side the bed. If the room were any smaller it would have been a closet. I was tempted to just get off the ship and return home. I will NEVER allow the ship to choose my cabin again.

  • @nanetteschoen8252
    @nanetteschoen8252 11 месяцев назад +8

    Wow I’ve been watching your RUclips videos since March 2023 when I booked my cruise on Enchanted Princess they have been so helpful one after the other. Low and behold I’m walking to an event and you appear. I recognized you right away and you were gracious and delightful as you are on your videos. My cruise has been fantastic and it is Thanks to you and your videos filled with useful and important information.
    Thanks and keep sharing,
    Nanette Schoen

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  11 месяцев назад +4

      It was great to meet you Nanette! Thanks for stopping to say hello. Glad you’re enjoying 😊

  • @jasonlangdon5141
    @jasonlangdon5141 11 месяцев назад +13

    we usually book a guarantee cabin, and then get an email offer to "bid up". This works out great for us.

  • @larryhudson3930
    @larryhudson3930 11 месяцев назад +9

    I would laugh at the people waitingin line for Starbucks to open at 6:30am instead of having the free coffee at 6am.

    • @beesonshort2627
      @beesonshort2627 11 месяцев назад

      As I am not a big fan of Starbucks (black coffee drinker), I always thought the same thing.

    • @larryhudson3930
      @larryhudson3930 11 месяцев назад +4

      @@beesonshort2627 I wouldn't drink Starbucks for free.

    • @andreagriffiths3512
      @andreagriffiths3512 11 месяцев назад

      Starbucks…yeah nah, pass! I’d rather drink instant than that….and I’d really never drink instant unless I was desperate.

    • @laureneeheman5981
      @laureneeheman5981 10 месяцев назад +3

      OMGosh! I'm so glad to find out there are other people who don't like Starbucks! I thought I was the only one saying "the emperor has no clothes"!

  • @danblackmore6099
    @danblackmore6099 11 месяцев назад +15

    My first cruise was in 2007 and we knew nothing. There were no Facebook groups or RUclips videos. I'm sure we made many mistakes. Since, we have taken many people with us on their first cruises, and they are thankful to have someone who knows what's going on.

  • @Brokenalice
    @Brokenalice 11 месяцев назад +9

    That's a safe - not a microwave. 🤣🤣🤣 I've never heard that question before. So funny!

  • @southernsunshine6154
    @southernsunshine6154 11 месяцев назад +13

    I always book a specific cabin typically midships on a lower deck because it is a better ride in case of inclement weather. This way I am closer to where we embark and disembark. I also prefer a cabin a couple doors from the elevator and stairs close to the dining end of the ship.
    One sailing we were spontaneously upgraded, they didn’t ask us, just moved us, bigger cabin, bigger balcony, right under the night club that had pounding music until 2 am every single night. I will NEVER not select my cabin and I always look at what is above and below me. The bass pulsated until in my head until they stopped playing and we couldn’t sleep. It made those early morning excursions, which is why I like to travel hard.

  • @dianeschwalm3855
    @dianeschwalm3855 11 месяцев назад +45

    Thank you for all of your informative videos! I’m part of a few cruise Facebook groups, but remain a fly on the wall. Because what I’ve discovered is,If your goal is to be made to feel stupid, just ask ANY question in these groups. So I watch your videos and eventually you’ll give the answer to any of the questions floating around upstairs. 👍 🛳

    • @linda319
      @linda319 11 месяцев назад +4

      California Linda shares it's safe to ask your question on this site. Many of us read every vlog, and answer questions. At one time, we're all new cruisers.

    • @franceswatts4001
      @franceswatts4001 10 месяцев назад +2

      I totally agree. I asked a question and was told by at least half a dozen people to “look it up!” I had tried that, couldn’t find a definitive answer and that was precisely why I had joined the group.

  • @rickcudmore8156
    @rickcudmore8156 11 месяцев назад +8

    At supper one night, a woman asked if the ship runs a long cable out the aft end for the cable TV in the cabins.

  • @betsy6046
    @betsy6046 11 месяцев назад +4

    Some cruise lines are installing water filling stations so bring an empty water bottle to fill.

  • @williamwhite4833
    @williamwhite4833 11 месяцев назад +8

    One thing I think should be pointed out to new crusiers is that in the MDR that if you can't make up your mind on the main entree, you can order 2.

    • @NEO3578
      @NEO3578 11 месяцев назад

      Thank you for this tip!

    • @francesfox3913
      @francesfox3913 6 месяцев назад

      Also possible to order appetizer portions of some entrees, to avoid the extra side items. Adults can order from the kids menu-check it out! Especially the desserts....

  • @marydungan6748
    @marydungan6748 11 месяцев назад +27

    I have cruised a lot, but I never thought about taking an excursion after the cruise is over if you have a late flight! I tend to take later flights and have spent many hours sitting at the airport. Not anymore!😊

    • @christine7379
      @christine7379 11 месяцев назад +3

      I booked a disembarkation excursion for my last cruise, but they cancelled it as they didn't have enough people book it! So disappointing as we were looking forward to it, and it would have been so convenient as it was due to drop us off at the airport afterwards.

    • @danblackmore6099
      @danblackmore6099 11 месяцев назад +2

      I rent a car for the day if I have a later flight. Can do my own thing and have some place for luggage.

    • @traceybartlam7737
      @traceybartlam7737 11 месяцев назад +1

      We finished last year in nyc (sailed in at sunrise and it was amazing) and did an excursion. It was fun and filled a long go before being taken to the airport. Next month we end in Athens and it seems a shame to not see Athens and just fly home to we’ve booked an extra couple of days as part of the package

    • @dianneweaver2957
      @dianneweaver2957 11 месяцев назад +2

      I had a question, if we have passports do we still need our birth certificates? Also getting a cab in Miami after disembarking to get to ft Lauderdale airport. Do you think we will make an 1135 flight?

    • @robertewalt7789
      @robertewalt7789 11 месяцев назад +1

      We did it twice. The excursion takes you to an attraction, then to the airport.

  • @borg1964
    @borg1964 11 месяцев назад +28

    Very informative as usual😊Your videos have been very helpful preparing this rookie for my first cruise👌🏻I’m an experienced air traveller, both my dad and I worked for KLM, but a cruise is completely different. Your tips have been a big help. I’ve purchased the hooks, hanging bag for toiletries, cruisecard holder, tagholders and it was so much fun preparing my trip. On my way to Norway in a few hours🥰 Enjoy your cruise in the Mediterranean👋🏻

  • @KMA66
    @KMA66 2 месяца назад +1

    Research is key to any cruise or vacation.

  • @danaa6283
    @danaa6283 11 месяцев назад +4

    One of the very best questions I ever heard asked: Does the ship generate it's own power". The cruise director said while laughing " no, didn't you see the giant extension cord going back to LA". Bahahaha!

  • @UVDodger
    @UVDodger 10 месяцев назад +3

    On my first cruise in 2017 we stepped off the shuttle at the port on embarkation day and were unprepared for how quickly the porters whisked away our luggage. I told my wife that I hoped we hadn't just been mugged. 😂

  • @danamatsukawa4762
    @danamatsukawa4762 11 месяцев назад +3

    I have been to the crew quarters on a Celebrity ship. I knew a crew member and they got permission to show me around. I found it interesting, but then I am one of those folks who enjoy the Galley and behind the scene tours that some cruise lines offer.

  • @stevek7068
    @stevek7068 11 месяцев назад +7

    GTY cabins--I've stayed in a few. In general, I've found them to be as good or even better than the ones I chose myself.

  • @simonsarpy538
    @simonsarpy538 11 месяцев назад +5

    Great points about falling overboard.

  • @rosemarysmith5967
    @rosemarysmith5967 10 месяцев назад +3

    Back in the day only first cruise I did a lot of research through VHS from the library and company brothers and books. I asked my parents why Mum had got to go to Disneyland as a youth, and we never had (we had been to Australia where Mum had taught). She said if I planned it parents would pay. Only now do I realize how special the ship was I chose in 1992, the SS Norway. I did so much research I was helping the other guests find their rooms as I had memorized the ship layout and as I did on BC Ferries, familiarized myself with the ship first thing by exploring EVERYWHERE. Bonus for a first time cruiser, my parents met working on the ferry between Seattle and Victoria, and Dad was then hired by Princess for its first cruise on the ship it rented which was the sister ship to tue one he worked on and Mum took a cruise to Australia for work, was the same cost as flying but all inclusive…in second class… for three weeks.
    Main thing I learned, one never walks uphill on a ship.

  • @purplerose9041
    @purplerose9041 11 месяцев назад +7

    I am a frequent cruiser, but I really enjoyed your video 😊.
    I am glad you brought up the going overboard issues. A relative of mine insisted on not staying in a balcony stateroom until their kids at least got to teenage age. I told her that all of the overboard incidents happened to older kids and adults. My family started cruising since my kids were toddlers and they are now college students. In my experience, you know your kids’ personality and whether they are self-disciplined. Teach them what to do and what’s not. Life is too short to hold off on enjoying a nice family vacation together.

    • @judithstrachan9399
      @judithstrachan9399 4 месяца назад

      Maybe your relative knows her kids are not self-disciplined?

  • @rgomez618
    @rgomez618 11 месяцев назад +5

    I love how you are addressing all the new cruiser questions thank you sooo much

  • @jdoe836
    @jdoe836 10 месяцев назад +1

    Falling overboard is RARE. However, copious amounts of alcohol are usually a contributing factor to these occurrences and usually don't end well. I do know the U.S. Coast Guard was looking into detection systems, but they are not required by the cruise ships. The best thing is to be a good "Shipmate" and look out for each other.

  • @leig514
    @leig514 10 месяцев назад +2

    You would think people trying to escape the ugliness of the rat race wouldn't be so ugly to newbies just trying to learn thanks for this video 😊

  • @nancyannesunboxings
    @nancyannesunboxings 11 месяцев назад +4

    We had a guaranteed cabin on our last cruise and loved it! It was very close to stairs and above the main dining room.

    • @designdoctor247
      @designdoctor247 11 месяцев назад +4

      we have always let the ship pick our room...it is FUN for us...7 family cruises so far and each one was great...no cabin issues at all.

  • @timg60
    @timg60 11 месяцев назад +2

    Just a quick point of clarification, not all private islands have everything included. You’ll have to do your research to find that info out. I’ve had it both ways from NCL.

  • @jmkraemer3510
    @jmkraemer3510 10 месяцев назад +3

    Booked a guaranteed ocean view cabin on Celebrity Beyond and was pleasantly surprised to be upgraded to an infinite veranda cabin which then put me in Concierge Class. Guaranteed cabins were the only ones left in ocean view originally, and I was concerned we'd get a noisy or partially blocked view, but instead we got a *great* cabin for a much lower price than we would have paid if we'd selected infinite veranda when we booked.

  • @timwoody3835
    @timwoody3835 9 месяцев назад +1

    On our first cruise … there was no specialty restaurant, no specialty coffees, not a lot of extras to purchase outside of the shops and excursions. The ship held about 600 passengers. No slides, wave riders, mini golf etc. just shuffleboard. There was a midnight buffet, but there wasn’t a buffet restaurant, just food set out on tables, but it was pretty spectacular with ice, fruit and vegetable art/sculptures. That was in 1982. Cruising sure has changed in 40 years.

  • @csmith2435
    @csmith2435 11 месяцев назад +10

    Great video! Not a first time cruiser but it was nice to get a "refresher" course! I enjoy all you videos! Thanks! ~Smitty

  • @shanazirkle5037
    @shanazirkle5037 11 месяцев назад +8

    I’m going on my first cruise next year and have definitely found your videos help and informative. Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge with us new folks ❤

  • @sosoblessed1
    @sosoblessed1 11 месяцев назад +2

    I’m an avid cruiser, going on my 17th cruise next week and 18th in Dec; however, it wasn’t until about my 10th cruise did I learn that I could have more than one entree in main dining. 😮

  • @iandean1112
    @iandean1112 11 месяцев назад +7

    I'm so excited for this one! You're always extremely helpful ❤❤

  • @rachelrobert3740
    @rachelrobert3740 11 месяцев назад +4

    Thank you for this Ilana - always relevant and informative 😊

  • @AudreyMealiff
    @AudreyMealiff 11 месяцев назад

    Thanks for lovely and very helpful tips.

  • @thebrentrobinsonshow2882
    @thebrentrobinsonshow2882 11 месяцев назад

    Cruising is very fun, great information.

  • @docsmctink
    @docsmctink 11 месяцев назад +5

    Wonderful reminders and information….I always hit like before I watch….your vids are great!!

  • @SyriusStarMultimedia
    @SyriusStarMultimedia 11 месяцев назад +2

    I took my first cruise in 1973. Comparing today’s cruise business with that, I will take my 1973 cruise 10 times out of 5 and twice on Sunday.

  • @williambrethauer9104
    @williambrethauer9104 11 месяцев назад +1

    You ROCK...really like watching your video presentations

  • @colorado_cat_rancher3879
    @colorado_cat_rancher3879 11 месяцев назад +3

    Enjoy your content great production, thanks!

  • @Annie-ho4mq
    @Annie-ho4mq 11 месяцев назад +2

    Thank you for your informative and helpful videos! I binge watched your vids since I haven’t been on a cruise in over 10yrs, I know a lot has changed.

  • @amberx776
    @amberx776 11 месяцев назад +3

    Thank you as always for your videos! Will be going on my first cruise in 2 weeks!

  • @dorisl1536
    @dorisl1536 11 месяцев назад +6

    I remember being surprised that you could eat lunch on the ship after you board. I think we actually stopped somewhere to eat because we didn’t know. Another thing we didn’t know was that the steward stored our luggage under the bed. We thought he took it, and asked for it back when it was time to pack. Lol 😅. Some things we won’t do again is order the bubbles (soda) package. It was impossible to get any drinks because you had to get it from the bar tender and they would NEVER make eye contact when they knew you just wanted soda. Grrr! Now Carnival just carries Pepsi products. so we wouldn’t be buying them anyway. Another thing, unless you really, really like art don’t waste a minute of your time going to the art sales. It’s not worth it. Also I will add that if you have a favorite massage / hair or nail place get it done there and not on the ship. It’s really expensive and they will try to get you to buy their products.

    • @kathleenardrey5094
      @kathleenardrey5094 11 месяцев назад +4

      Great advice about the bubbly/soda packages. Haven't cruised yet, so thank you so much.

    • @laureneeheman5981
      @laureneeheman5981 11 месяцев назад +3

      I've been binging cruising 🛳 videos for months and have never ever seen a comment from someone who likes the art sales. Somehow the space must make the cruise 🛳 line money or they won't sell it. You'd think, too, that lower prices with no high pressure sales for spa services would increase volume and therefore profits.

    • @designdoctor247
      @designdoctor247 11 месяцев назад +2

      we agree w all your comments

    • @elisaastorino2881
      @elisaastorino2881 10 месяцев назад +2

      ​@@kathleenardrey5094unless you really like your soft drinks, I don't think it's worth it. On my last cruise, the bartender filled a glass and didn't even give me the rest of the can. Even the airlines do that.

    • @kathleenardrey5094
      @kathleenardrey5094 10 месяцев назад

      Hi! We don't really drink sodas, but would like to sometime. have one with a meal.@@elisaastorino2881

  • @wordgiesworld5483
    @wordgiesworld5483 9 месяцев назад +1

    I resisted cruising for so long because I had preconceived notions about it. Asking questions got me interested but once we took our first cruise (3 day to Nassau), we were hooked and it’s become our preferred vacation.

  • @lourdesnaya3656
    @lourdesnaya3656 11 месяцев назад +3

    We have booked a couple of cruises with guarantee balcony and have had no issues. No noisy during the night

  • @tracysmith9965
    @tracysmith9965 11 месяцев назад +2

    You go girl ! Your Subscriber numbers have quickly adding up. Congratulations on that 🎉 I love the variety of information you provide! Happy sailings😊

  • @moggiemum2
    @moggiemum2 11 месяцев назад

    Thank you Ilana, always the best cruise vlogger on RUclips! ❤

  • @joycesaviak7367
    @joycesaviak7367 10 месяцев назад

    Great video. I am a seasoned cruiser but still learn new things all the time.

  • @andoru
    @andoru 11 месяцев назад +2

    I spoke to some guests on the last sea day, who had been to the buffet every meal and not realised the MDR was included… AND they thought the evening shows in the theatre were extra cost too, so missed out on all those.

    • @judithstrachan9399
      @judithstrachan9399 4 месяца назад

      My first cruise, I didn’t even know there was a buffet until the last few days, only ate in the MDR.

  • @rallegra
    @rallegra 11 месяцев назад +2

    THANK YOU for doing this video. I've asked a few in a FB Group and have a few more, but I'm scared to ask again and bother people. LOL.

  • @MrHardhatharry
    @MrHardhatharry 11 месяцев назад

    Even as an experienced cruiser, I really appreciated this video. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

  • @jameswilson5165
    @jameswilson5165 11 месяцев назад +3

    I did Not know about the overbooking and that it can result in a free cruise! Great video.

  • @livingweirdestherc6644
    @livingweirdestherc6644 11 месяцев назад

    Thanks to your videos I was prepared for my first cruise 😊

  • @jeffreywagner5234
    @jeffreywagner5234 11 месяцев назад

    Great video!

  • @nancybogart3960
    @nancybogart3960 11 месяцев назад +5

    Happy Friday!🇺🇸🚢 Great question and answer. I know these things now, but on my first cruise I did not, so for a novice cruiser, this is great information.

  • @jeffnpat
    @jeffnpat 11 месяцев назад +1

    Although food may be covered on the private island, do not expect that your drink package will work on the private island

  • @markeaston7353
    @markeaston7353 11 месяцев назад

    Great video thanks! We may well laugh but before my first cruise I could have asked any one of those questions.

  • @RENEESKATES
    @RENEESKATES 3 месяца назад

    Love your cruise videos, very informative and helpful!

  • @maryhanson6282
    @maryhanson6282 11 месяцев назад +1

    On our very first cruise, many years ago, there was a tv, but no remote so I was constantly changing channels for my husband. At the end of the cruise I found out that we could have asked for a remote. So glad they are part of the cabin nowadays, but for some reason back then they were not.

  • @lizdyson3627
    @lizdyson3627 11 месяцев назад

    Awesome video ilanna

  • @timpeters3237
    @timpeters3237 11 месяцев назад

    Good info.

  • @debbiehenderson4821
    @debbiehenderson4821 11 месяцев назад +4

    Great video as usual. I sincerely hope the crew sleeps on board! Otherwise they must have jumped overboard! Have watched all of your videos & all are so informative. Happy cruising 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🤗🤗🤗

  • @tshelby123
    @tshelby123 11 месяцев назад

    Thank you for keeping me updates on first-time cruising me and my wife will be cruising our first cruise in December very good information to know that's just as our first cruise

  • @ginitaprofitt4065
    @ginitaprofitt4065 5 месяцев назад

    Llana, love your hair in this video. Thank you for this video, even though I’m not new to cruising, I found it useful.

  • @gailabert7976
    @gailabert7976 11 месяцев назад +1

    On a HAL land and cruise tour in 2007 we had a guaranteed balcony cabin and it was located 3rd cabin from the front of the ship. Turns out it was actually not a bother at all to me or my daughter ( of course I was younger then!) and we had a great cruise! Thanks for the video! 😊

  • @rhonettem.1974
    @rhonettem.1974 10 месяцев назад

    This video was really fun to watch! My husband and I are about to go on our 10th cruise next month! And a couple of the things that you touched on in this video, I did not even realize. For instance, I did not know that they can book beyond 100% capacity. I love your channel. Thank you so much for
    your content.

  • @NicholasPyers
    @NicholasPyers 11 месяцев назад +2

    Some cruise offer a deal where you can pay extra to board early… I’d pay a lot extra to STAY ON BOARD LONGER on disembarkation day!!! I’m not a morning person at the best of times, so been rushed off ship on the final day of my holiday is not the best ending for me!
    Even if we are limited to say a MDR or a lounge…. Where a leisurely breakfast is served and maybe a limited selection of morning cocktails were available…
    It’d be a nicer way of ending our cruise

    • @laureneeheman5981
      @laureneeheman5981 11 месяцев назад +2

      Norweign Cruise Line has that. The Priority Access package also allows you to pick a time to disembark. Includes other perks to!

  • @reneeisep2435
    @reneeisep2435 10 месяцев назад

    We are traveling on our first cruise 9 Day Mediterranean. I came across your channel a few months ago and have been watching, learning and checking in for new videos. Thank you so much for your information. I like to be prepared. I took slot of notes from your videos. Enjoy your next cruise.

  • @MrGilperc
    @MrGilperc 11 месяцев назад

    Ilana, my first ever cruise is in April 2024. Thanks for all you are doing to prepare me.

  • @lorenajones3729
    @lorenajones3729 11 месяцев назад +4

    THANK YOU!! I'm planning my first cruise and have been watching your videos to hopefully educate myself on the process. I have asked myself over half of these questions. I feel a little terrified that I might say or do the wrong thing, and I don't want to run up a "Stupidity Bill!" And yes, I will book through an agent...If I can find one.

  • @pattibeaumont3470
    @pattibeaumont3470 11 месяцев назад

    We always do guaranteed cabins and they have always been great.

  • @darrellq6954
    @darrellq6954 11 месяцев назад +4

    Can you do a video about "Free airfare for the 2nd guest"...Is is really "free"? or am I really paying a really high, high price for the first person?

    • @laureneeheman5981
      @laureneeheman5981 10 месяцев назад +1

      If you are talking about NCL, there are so many variables depending on your airport choice and destination. You'd need to talk with them directly. And, they reserve the right yo choose flights with up to two stops.

    • @elisaastorino2881
      @elisaastorino2881 10 месяцев назад

      My friend and I did that, also through NCL, and I will never do that again. When all was said and done, we could have done better on our own in terms of price (we split the total). You should also be aware that because of the way the cruise lines negotiate with the airlines, you will probably get really bad flight times.

  • @garyholmes601
    @garyholmes601 11 месяцев назад

    We sailed a guarantied cabin on HAL in January. Right under the rock club - it was good, very little noise - so I booked another guarantied cabin for April 24

  • @tatt2boy2000
    @tatt2boy2000 11 месяцев назад +5

    Great content as usual! Going to Alaska soon and you answered my questions. Thank you and safe travels everyone ✌🏾

    • @shelleythistleton4935
      @shelleythistleton4935 11 месяцев назад

      I’m going to Alaska soon too! Can’t wait! What to pack??? Maybe I will see you there 😂

    • @user-fs9jo4uh9g
      @user-fs9jo4uh9g 11 месяцев назад

      she has a video about what to pack for Alaska. @@shelleythistleton4935

  • @norajones2528
    @norajones2528 10 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks so much for this information! I will be cruising for the first time in October with my husband. I experience panic attacks so it might be a challenge, but I will do it. I find your videos so helpful & relaxing. Even if I wasn’t going on a cruise Id probably watch these videos. 😊 Being able to see what others see (& the retail therapy 😂). I hope I will like cruising & we can go on more (money permitting). 😊😊😊

  • @melissawright617
    @melissawright617 11 месяцев назад +1

    We had a guaranteed cabin for Alaska due to a late booking. Our cabin was fabulous. Close to the elevator.

  • @PhoenixJusticeCom
    @PhoenixJusticeCom 11 месяцев назад +2

    Since I am taking my first cruise this October (Turkey and the Greek Isles) on the NCL Jade, I have been watching your videos with enthusiasm. You have been very helpful in making me less jittery.

  • @melonyrogers9841
    @melonyrogers9841 11 месяцев назад +1

    Yes, my first cruise I was not sure what area/place was included. I had no clue where or what I was ablento get while at Cococay.

  • @lexa_power
    @lexa_power 11 месяцев назад +25

    This was an amazing video! It’s so nerve wracking to be a first time cruiser - I took my first cruise in September of last year so I can still remember how many questions I had that I was embarrassed to ask!
    Things I wish someone told me before my first cruise:
    You can board the ship in the morning or early afternoon. I thought because sail away time was in the evening that I should board the ship close to sail time 😅
    Bottled water is not free so you should bring a reusable water bottle and a sponge and dish soap to wash it for yourself to have water to carry around on the ship. Same with a coffee tumbler if you want to drink coffee. They will give you a mug but if you bring a tumbler you can fill up and carry it around or bring to your excursion.
    Kleenex are not provided and the toilet paper is limited so you may want to bring extra or snag some from the public bathrooms for your cabin.
    You can order as much or as many different appetizers, entrées, and deserts at the main dining room (the only exception being formal night where sometimes they charge for a second lobster depending on the cruise line) but seriously order everything you want!
    You can bring foil or Tupperware to take food back to your room as you will have a mini fridge, but there will be no microwave anywhere on board to heat it up, so this only works for cold food/drinks.
    If you do a back to back cruise, you still have to get up early that morning and get off the ship with everyone else before they let you back on 😢 no sleeping in on changeover day! 😢😢
    Gratuities are not included in the price and will show up as random charges on your cruise card.
    You can order an occasional drink here and there at main dining or the buffet or any bar without buying the drinks package
    The pools are always deep and not shallow enough to stand or wade intentionally so that you can’t relax / chill in them.

    • @michaels3003
      @michaels3003 11 месяцев назад +2

      Great info. TY.

    • @lexa_power
      @lexa_power 11 месяцев назад +3

      @@michaels3003 you’re welcome! I wish someone told me all of that before my first cruise! Happy cruising! If anyone has any other rookie questions feel free to ask me or ask on this thread- I’m not an expert but if I don’t know the answer guaranteed someone will! Let’s normalize asking rookie questions! Thanks again for this video topic Ilana 🫶🏻💕

    • @michaels3003
      @michaels3003 11 месяцев назад +3

      @@lexa_power , I learn a lot from (some) people's comments on various topics. Thank you again.

    • @lisae2393
      @lisae2393 10 месяцев назад +5

      I've been on quite a few cruises and there has always been Kleenex in the bathroom and toilet paper is always replaced by the cabin steward.

    • @druegillis1744
      @druegillis1744 10 месяцев назад +2

      Same here. I have allergies and a second box of Kleenex is always requested when we meet our room steward. Also extra hangars and ice twice a day. That is part of their job and we tip for good service
      ,

  • @user-je6xo6xp8e
    @user-je6xo6xp8e 9 месяцев назад +1

    Going on my First cruise in May 2024 at age 65 and info is very informative. Thank you for sharing.

  • @iteachmy3
    @iteachmy3 11 месяцев назад +1

    On our first cruise, we didn't realize room service was free (back then). That would've been so helpful to know. Now, there's a charge on many cruises of about ten dollars, but the food itself is free.

  • @deniselane3906
    @deniselane3906 4 месяца назад

    I booked an inside cabin but let them choose the room. I was pleased that I was put into a cabin with portholes!

  • @kennethcopelin1839
    @kennethcopelin1839 11 месяцев назад +2

    I’m heading to the MSC seascape in September can’t wait 30 days to go whoop whoop

  • @StamperWendy
    @StamperWendy 3 месяца назад

    Thanks! Now with the seemingly more-obvious questions answered, we can come across like a pro when we cruise!

  • @AliceRamsey-ws3nm
    @AliceRamsey-ws3nm 11 месяцев назад +4

    We have booked on a Royal Caribbean Cruise for Christmas. This is our first Royal Caribbean so we booked a guaranteed cabin. It was less expensive and we didn't know what to pick anyway.

    • @sosoblessed1
      @sosoblessed1 11 месяцев назад +1

      I love Royal Caribbean at Christmas time: large 🎄, lights, decorations, gingerbread houses, parades, awesome vibes. Enjoy!

    • @designdoctor247
      @designdoctor247 11 месяцев назад +1

      eeeekkkk i am so excited for you!!! our family books this way everytime. 7 cruises so far and always a nice, clean, comfy, quiet room...the stewart...wow they r what makes the room FUN. the leave towel animals and gosh they r just sooooo nice!!!

  • @kimvilleneuve2543
    @kimvilleneuve2543 11 месяцев назад

    Hi thanks for the video. I don’t need it but I am sure a lot of new cruisers do. You can’t make a phone call but you can FaceTime if you have wifi. I alway pick my cabin because I do lots of research on the best cabins and balcony on the ship. 😊

  • @Rodmic-hd9pn
    @Rodmic-hd9pn 9 месяцев назад

    Love your dress