Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/
@@annagorton9430 the regular price is $27, and it is $10 off. So the price is $17 for the digital download, printable cruise planner (you can print as many pages as you need)
@@LifeWellCruised Understood. I should have read it better. I do have my own list but may order it anyway. My list isn't well organized. I like that it is digital and the price is reasonable. Thanks 😊
I’m taking my first cruise in just a couple months and my travel anxiety has been thru the roof! I can’t tell you how much your videos soothe my anxieties and help me feel the most prepared
Dani I was anxious too leading up to my first cruise earlier this year but trust me there is nothing to worry about. You will have an amazing time and the tips from Illana were brilliant. They really helped me too. Have a great cruise
Hi there, I'm a visually impaired cruiser, you could make an entire video on accessible cruising. But for cruisers with disabilities about 30 days before your cruise call the cruise line. Last I sailed with Carnival they delivered the fun times to me in large print and made sure my dinning seat was on the first floor I'm an easy to find location Incase I needed to go to the ladies room and return and my menus were also in large print and they gave the show attendents a heads up as I got decent seating at the shows. It really helps to call ahead of time and to also be willing to reiterate your needs to cruise staff they're not mind readers so politely speak up and they're so happy to help!
Embarkation tip: I found a great dress that I use as a cover up too. So I wear my bathing suit under and I'm ready to have lunch, walk around the ship and hang out on deck with no changing clothes. I didn't do that on my first cruise. Complete bummer. Also, most ports charge tax on drinks while in port during embarkation day until it sails into international waters. So, accept that you'll see charges for each drink. Lastly, I make a late reservation for dinner. This gives me time to unpack, organize and get ready with having to rush. If I'm hungry, I know I can grab a snack to tie me over.
Really like and appreciate your tips on staying away from the main elevators as they ARE packed and it’s usually a long wait. Our first cruise many years ago, we were overwhelmed with the number of people around, the pushing crowds, the noise levels, confusion, including ours. We could not find a seat anywhere, not at the restaurants, the little niches everywhere, no room for seating at the buffet, nowhere, it was truly awful. A lot has changed in recent years; embarkation is more controlled and we will certainly be staying away from the buffet on that day also. As per your suggestion of a mimosa on embarkation day sounds perfect to us. I’ll let you know how it works out. We have been on many cruises over the last 25 years and yet we still have trick and tips to learn. Thank you so much for your videos; they are awesome. 👍🇨🇦
My first couple cruises I didn't think sail away was anything special and couldn't understand why everyone seemed to be making a big deal about it. Now its one of my favorite parts of the cruise and I always make sure I'm somewhere special to enjoy it!
We really like to board later in the day, like after 1:00. There is usually no line for check in, the cabins are ready, and I don't have to fight for a seat at the buffet. We have a nice lunch somewhere off the ship and then board. We love cruising having been on 14 cruises, but I'm not really interested in lining up and waiting to board and then lining up for a crowded buffet!
This is all great advice, especially for folks who are new to cruising. I'd encourage newbies to seriously consider your cruise planner. We're experienced cruisers, so we definitely always arrive a day early by air or car to reduce the stress. The luggage tag holders are worth their weight in gold! We just replaced our cruise "carry-on" bags with the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Underseat Rolling Tote. It's excellent, and priced well. It's a great rollaboard bag, for domestic or International flights, and it also has a trolley sleeve to ride on your checked bag. It's the perfect bag to hold your remaining clothes, slippers, toiletries, and electronics at the end of the cruise, after handing your bigger bag to the crew the night before. Subscribed!
We try to get an early check-in time so we can start our vacation ASAP and enjoy as much of the ship as possible! We celebrate sail away by getting a drink and then going to the Lido deck or Sun deck to watch the scenery and everyone on shore waving at us which depends on the port of course. After that, we go to dinner and celebrate some more! Embarkation day is the best! Thanks for the tips!
My husband and I went on a Panama Canal cruise on Royal Caribbean with friends several years ago. On embarkation day, my girlfriend & I went to check out the spa. They asked if we would volunteer to have a facial at no charge. We said yes and they gave us the facials. The idea was that people would see them at work while they were checking out the spa. A great way to start our vacation.
We are about to venture out on our first cruise and have watched many of your videos to help prepare. We feel so much better prepared as we had absolutely no clue about anything cruise related. My wife and myself thank you so much Llana!
Another tip I've learned traveling in regards to luggage tags is make a copy of the tag to place inside right on top or in front pocket. There may be a chance your luggage will still make it to your cabin.
I have really found your videos very very helpful I am leaving to drive to Miami from Tennessee in a couple of days I am doing this all by myself I am a single female I am scared and excited at the same time I'm doing this all for myself to find myself if you know what I mean thank you for your videos they have been very very helpful and calming
I have cruised a few times already, but it’s been 5 years since my last cruise. I LOVE watching your videos! Even if it’s something I already know, your just so welcoming & have such great info! Thank youuu❤️
I bought the luggage tags after watching one of your previous videos. Labels are all printed now and ready for our Mediterranean cruise in a few weeks. Thanks 😊
I did too, plus the power strip and magnetic hooks. I'd love to do silly stuff like decorate the door, since it's our first but the budget is already stretched
Just went on a RC Symphony out of Miami and it all went great....embarkation day was super easy....they initially checked our passports and boarding pass.....lastly at the final check point they just scanned our face...it matched with our passport photo and off we went. SUPER easy.......Disembarkation was even easier. Planning another cruise in 2025 for my 60th!!!
My very first cruise on NCL, my sis and I each won a free drink in a souvenir glass during the sail away dance contest! Great way to kick off my love of cruises
I cruise on Carnival, and I love Sail Away! To me it's the perfect kick off for the cruise, and it's always so much fun! The people can be really hilarious too.
My partner and I ALWAYS arrive the day before now - just ONCE he talked me into arriving the day of the cruise - I was stressed to the max envisaging delayed flights, road traffic accidents, lost luggage etc. I will NEVER EVER arrive on the day of sailing again - unless I live in the departure port city. Great videos too! We have cruised many times and do a lot of what your videos cover - but there is always something we haven't considered or thought of that you go over :)
One of the embarcation day specials I enjoy is the specialty dining. I have received a free bottle of wine or a discount by going to the specialty restaurant on the first night.
I had the lost luggage happen because of the paper tags. Took me until almost dinner time to find my suitcase. Now I ALWAYS use the plastic holders. They are well worth the money. Have them in both sizes.
We always await until our cabin is open. Then, I decorate it according to our celebration. I love unpacking right away so everything will be organized and in its place.
My husband and I are taking our first cruise in June. Super excited and a lot of family is going as well. But your videos have been life savers!! I’m so grateful and thank you for sharing your tips. ❤😂
I purchased the luggage tags for our past two cruises & love them!!! Regarding embarkation raffles etc, my son & I recently sailed on Mardi Gras & I ended up winning a $125 spa credit!!! I had never had a massage or spa treatment (my kids have gotten them , paying for it themselves but I had never. I got a hot stone massage, oh my goodness, loved it!!! I fell asleep lol! I told my hubby I am going to treat myself every cruise from now on lol!!
I have been binging your videos. My kids and I are going on our first cruise and I have purchased almost all of your items you have listed or items that are very similar.
If you are flying in, don't attach your luggage tags before you are off the plane. I have the plastic luggage tags and even with the steel attachment, one was ripped off by the airlines on my last trip.
Very true. The man at the luggage store where I bought my tags suggested I put them in my carry-on and as soon as I claimed my luggage at the airport, to put them on then.
I bought a set of packing cubes that you recommend..LOVE THEM..just take the cube out and put that in your drawer. Pull out what you need each day. When it's time to end your cruise, if you have anything left in there, just zip it and when you get home, you know it's clean, then put it away. 😊
I had to use motion sickness medication one time and even the non drowsy put me out for the day. I'm sensitive to medications, so if I had to do it again, I would start small on the dosage, maybe a quarter or half of a dose and see how that worked before taking the suggested dose. The wristbands for motion sickness have been very helpful as well. Putting them on before the ship sets sail yields the best result. We have cruised a lot and it's rare I have issues though sometimes rough conditions can't be completely avoided. Here's my finger cross for calm seas on our upcoming cruise at the end of this month. Thanks for your videos. 🛳
Hi Illana, one thing that surprised me. I could look at the safety video(Mariner of the Seas) on the shuttle to the ship. So when i got on the ship i could go straight to muster station. And Ta Da i was done! PS i always preorder champagne and chocolate covered strawberries if not provided as a perk to my cabin along with shrimp or guacamole and salsa with chips when traveling with friends for us to sit out on the balcony
We are seasoned cruisers, but I’ve watched all of your videos and I love them. We are doing a HolyLand 12 night cruise in September 2024 on Royal and have a six other couples traveling with us. I’m trying to absorb things to pass on to them. Your videos are great and I take away something from each one of them. Thank you.
I always think I've got everything covered cruising but Ilana always provides the best gold and hidden gems!! Also, I just stocked up on a bunch of the items you have linked for our Holland America Christmas cruise through the Panama Canal aboard the Volendam, so thank you for your stamp of approval!! Can wait for that Champaign Sail-a-way!!
Love Sail Away so much! The wonderful dancers and the energy just kicks off the cruise! We grab our Lido chairs ASAP and order up the drinks to wait for the show!
I have a very flexible lightweight notebook with dividers with pockets and I label the dividers with all necessary needs like excursion docs, airplane boarding passes, boarding docs, everything that we need and it is handy and this can change from trip to trip. We love the plastic boarding luggage tag holders,, what a lifesaver.. We always walk down to another set of elevators depending where our cabin is located. Yes, we always find another dining option by scoping out the dining before boarding. Once we eat, we have been very lucky that our cabin has been ready as our lunch is done and our luggage is waiting so we unpack, change and head up for the sail away. Wow, we can watch the muster drill before we leave home? What a lifesaver! Just one more thing to get off the list and out of the way before boarding and head to lunch. When we lock that front door, all of our stress is gone and we are vacay mode. We forget about everything cause we did a month of check lists and planning and making sure everything is set so we can enjoy our cruise.
I love your informative tips!!!! we have the extended balcony on the back of the ship. We stay there on sail-away as we have a panoramic view!!! We 'sail on 4/3 and we Can Not wait:):)
80 days until our first cruise! I’m glad I got the planner already. Your tip about arriving a day early took a lot of stress off of us. We’ll be flying into Venice and staying there and use the cruise line transfer to Ravenna on embarkation day (2 hour drive). We were told that they wouldn’t do the transfer until embarkation day, which makes sense with a long drive. We even planned to stay an extra night when the cruise is finished.
Hey Drexwell looks like we’ll be on the same cruise! We are also staying in Venice before our cruise on Azamara Onward so will be transferred to Ravenna for embarkation. Like yourselves, we are staying a night in Barcelona after the cruise. This will also be our first cruise 😀 With needing to have a Covid test result within 72 hrs we have opted to get our test before we board. Is this the same for you? It will add to the time to board but can’t see any other option. Will keep checking rules and regulations as it’s constantly changing. It’s exciting though🎉⚓️🚢🇬🇧
@@cu4wur6023 This is our first cruise also! We ended up going with Celebrity for the Greek cruise though. Yes, we were worried about how to handle the drive from Venice to Ravenna. We thought about the train, but we didn't want to carry our luggage around. We just ended up getting a private driver in a little car. It wasn't too expensive, but the weird part was to pay a deposit and the rest had to be paid to the driver directly with cash. We weren't given the option to pay all of it up front. As for the COVID testing, since we'll be arriving a day earlier, we thought we would have to wait until we get there to be tested within the timeframe that the cruise line wants. I wouldn't be surprised if these regulations change, but for now, we're just going to have to fork out the money to get supervised telehealth test kits. Do you have any plans on how you're going to get the testing done? I agree, everything changes so fast, but we're very excited too.
@@drexellking8931 Oh, your on a Celebrity cruise to Greece! Sounds lovely, only ever been to Corfu once many moons ago now. Ours is a cruise of the Mediterranean. We are in Venice for 2 nights then getting a transfer from the hotel by water taxi to the pick up point for the coach that will take us to Ravenna to embark Azamara Onward. When we looked into the vaccination options it stated a test to be done and pay for before boarding the ship. To be honest it’s stressing me out this side of it incase there is a problem of some sort. Just wish we could do before we leave. No doubt there will be quite a few hoops to jump through. One of the tutorials I watched said that a lot of cruise ships are not sailing to full capacity but finding out what capacity YOUR ship is sailing can be hard to find out. Interesting, and I’m going to try and find out. Would mean more room lol. All these rules and regulations on ship but different countries you stop at have their rules. I know Croatia have thrown all theirs out the window and we’re stopping there. Our ship rules states anyone not sticking to regulations for the ship whilst off it will be kicked off 😱🤷🏻♀️very confusing 🤔 being first time cruisers you don’t know what to expect in general but I know it’s going to be great either way. Have a wonderful cruise and hope it’s plain sailing 🚢⚓️🫡
Hi 😎 my favorite cruise time is sail away. Such a relaxing time to put life on hold for a while. I always hang out on my veranda and enjoy a bottle of bubbly. I’ve been spoiled by Celebrity Cruises as they always include the bubbly and something yummy to nibble on in the cabin. I’m counting the days until my cruise in January! 🥂🚢
Just to let you know.....The Port of Galveston in Texas will not deliver wine or champagne (or any alcoholic beverages) until the ship is out of port and a couple of miles out to sea. So if planning a champagne toast goodbye at Sail, better bring your own.
We leave in 5 days and the cruise-mares have begun! I'm pretty sure it's bc we're committing the #1 no-no and that's flying in the day of the cruise. Also we're doing something different this time for sail away. We've noticed it's not a big deal to us but we do want to do something special so we booked a massage for that time!
On one of my cruises, my hubby wanted to go check out the spa. We both put our names in for the raffle. My name was called for a complimentary head massage!
On one cruise, I “bribed” the spa staff to leave a gift certificate - which I paid for in advance- in my Mom’s (and sister) stateroom with a NOTE saying their stateroom had won a spa treatment in a raffle. Spa services can be pricey, and my Mom would have “complained” if I had not been sneaky about it!! 😎👏🏻👏🏻
It is true that you feel lighter on that sail away moment. I have joined raffles in the Gym ara and 2 times I have won credits towards a Spa, once $100 and another time $300. Another time my son won $100 too. That is so much fun!! Thanks for your videos. They are fun and informative.
I leave in 2 days for Caribbean on NCL Encore. We walk to aft of the ship JD elevators are empty. We hit the scream by our room and make our theater reservations for up coming shows. I get a drink and chicken wings at The Local. Thanks for what you do!
I'm taking notes. Thanks for these helpful tips, I'm planning a cruise for next year, God's willing 🙏 😊 I haven't been on one in 10 years. I hope everything goes well. Have a wonderful day!!!😊😊
Hi there, Ilanna! New subscriber here! I'm absolutely loving your hacks and tips! You're definitely helping me prepare for mine and my family's very first cruise! I have a couple of questions for you as a first time cruiser. First off, can we just write our information down on a piece of paper to place in our luggage tags? In your opinion, what is the cheapest most convenient way to book a cruise? A travel agent or online? I'd like to add that I'm terrified of the ocean and cannot swim, but it's something I've always wanted to experience and I'm super nervous and excited at the same time. Haha! Thank you for all that you do here! I appreciate this so much! ❤️
Great video Illana. You are so right about that amazing feeling when the ship leaves port on embarkation day. I have never felt so relaxed. Another tip is be prepared for any taxes you may have to pay. When me & my partner got to the cruise port in Panama we had to pay $5 each. It didn't bother me but it was good just to be prepared and have the correct money to speed up the process ☺️
I keep two of the plastic luggage tag holders attached to my luggage all the time. I keep a long and the wide one that way any cruise line luggage tag will fit.
I would like to say thank you 🤠 for the info you have give me. I think that it will make our cruise so much easier as we are two older ladies. We are going in May. I also ordered the luggage tags you recommended and the cruise certified electric plug.
Love the plastic tag holders. I have the wide ones . I do have to cut the printed tags to fit as P &O and or Cunard labels don’t fit that well on their own but never mind it only takes seconds to trim and fold them to fit. It’s so worth it. I think I paid about £7 for a set of 5 from Amazon. I have to admit I don’t bother with sail away. Half the time I’ve never even realised we’ve left especially if it’s a later sail and it’s dark. Very useful video and a pleasure to watch.
Here in the U K in the winter it’s dark by 5 so winter cruises sailing at 6 will always be in the dark.Is pretty to see all the lights going done The Solent ( way out to sea from Southampton but is my Often too cold to sit outside . I often just watch through the windows in MDR or other lounges and bars.
I wish that the cruise lines would make it where simple questions can be asked and answered on an app. I have a service dog so I HAVE to go to GS as soon as I board when I go next year to find out where the potty areas are on the ship. Nowadays, there is no reason why they can't have virtual ques for simple questions. Then the physical lines can be for those with true issues that need to be addressed.
Last two cruises our family switched it up. On the California coastal we were on the top sail away party 🎉 super fun. On our Alaskan cruise we booked a specialty diner at the Crown Grill. Again super delicious food & fun times.
Yea Princess. Our embarkation on Island Princess from Los Angeles was the smoothest ever. Arrived during our assigned time, had all our luggage tagged, Our Medallions were ready, passports out and Covid tests on our phones. We went into the very large terminal and sat in our designated waiting section until called. From arrival to on the ship was 30 minutes. All because we were prepared and the “Wonderful Princess Medallion “. Sure beats the hour+ we stood in line in 2012 in Barcelona for our Med cruise.
My daughter and I sailed on February 13, which was my birthday, but it was also Super Bowl Sunday. We went to check out the casino and we entered a raffle for the winner/loser of the Super Bowl. I actually picked the losing side… lol. But I won $200. It was a nice way to start my cruise AND it was a wonderful birthday present!
You mention getting a wheelchair if standing for too long on and off the ship. I was just informed by Royal Caribbean out of Port Canaveral, they do not do that anymore unless you rent a wheelchair. Not sure what that costs, but I know it used to be free.
Hi Ilana. Catching up on videos after our two weeks Emerald adventure from a couple weeks ago. Great advice in this episode. Those luggage tag holders are super good to have. Flying in the day before, an absolute must for us. One scary embarkation day moment was one of our group of 7 almost got on the Caribbean Princess, luggage and all. He was at terminal 2 and we were already aboard the Emerald at terminal 4. Luckily it was rectified and all was well by sailaway. Drinks and pizza by the pool, we had a fun start at sailaway! 👍🍹🌞
Oh my!! Crazy to think that it could happen, but since we give our luggage to the porters first, I could see the potential. Great comments and I hope you had a wonderful cruise!
I love you advice for avoiding the buffet on the first day of the cruise, however for my trip on royal caribbean the main dinning room is only open for dinner on the very first day 😔
Not sure if anybody addressed this yet, but Carnival's app now lets you set an "appointment" for guest services, so no more waiting in line. (Supposedly) Just booked our second cruise for this year and was told this by our Carnival cruise planner.
Hi Ilana, when we sailed away last November on the Celebrity Millennium in our aft Family Oceanview Verandah, we brought two bottles of wine and sipped those watching Ft Lauderdale get smaller and smaller. It was surely a Life Well Cruised. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut counting down the days until our June Bermuda 🛳
@@eleanorstenberg699 Good morning Eleanor, we were on the Celebrity Millennium and had Cabin #8166. It was on the aft starboard corner. So we got a full 270 degree (full aft and along the right side) view. And since it had two separate sleeping areas (290 sq ft) for just the two of us, it was wonderful. Being on the aft we felt no movement at all. And being where we were, we had quick access to the aft elevator, down to the MDR and up to the Oceanview Buffet and Sunset Bar. Depending on your deck and cabin at the back of the ship, if you're on the Millennium class ships, deck 7 has the longest veranda, deck 8 shorter and deck 9 the shortest veranda (tunnel appearance is the best way to describe it). "Nyt cruiset ditt" hopefully means "Enjoy your cruise" in Norwegian. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut
Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner/
When I click the link it shows $17 not $10. Is there a code I need to enter?
@@annagorton9430 the regular price is $27, and it is $10 off. So the price is $17 for the digital download, printable cruise planner (you can print as many pages as you need)
@@LifeWellCruised Understood. I should have read it better. I do have my own list but may order it anyway. My list isn't well organized. I like that it is digital and the price is reasonable. Thanks 😊
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I’m taking my first cruise in just a couple months and my travel anxiety has been thru the roof! I can’t tell you how much your videos soothe my anxieties and help me feel the most prepared
Your cruise is going to be great! I’m so glad my videos could help in any way 😊
Same
Please feel free if you have more questions. I am an expert cruiser, previous crew member and Travel Agent. Love ❤️
Dani I was anxious too leading up to my first cruise earlier this year but trust me there is nothing to worry about. You will have an amazing time and the tips from Illana were brilliant. They really helped me too. Have a great cruise
Very helpful thank you
Hi there, I'm a visually impaired cruiser, you could make an entire video on accessible cruising. But for cruisers with disabilities about 30 days before your cruise call the cruise line. Last I sailed with Carnival they delivered the fun times to me in large print and made sure my dinning seat was on the first floor I'm an easy to find location Incase I needed to go to the ladies room and return and my menus were also in large print and they gave the show attendents a heads up as I got decent seating at the shows. It really helps to call ahead of time and to also be willing to reiterate your needs to cruise staff they're not mind readers so politely speak up and they're so happy to help!
Thanks for mentioning this Tina! Great to be aware of
That shirt (or shirt-dress) looks great on you. And your hair is perfect.
Embarkation tip: I found a great dress that I use as a cover up too. So I wear my bathing suit under and I'm ready to have lunch, walk around the ship and hang out on deck with no changing clothes. I didn't do that on my first cruise. Complete bummer.
Also, most ports charge tax on drinks while in port during embarkation day until it sails into international waters. So, accept that you'll see charges for each drink.
Lastly, I make a late reservation for dinner. This gives me time to unpack, organize and get ready with having to rush. If I'm hungry, I know I can grab a snack to tie me over.
All great tips 👏
I used a lovely dress as a double for cover upas well and wore my Bathingsuits all day every day instead of regular underwear and bras!!!!
I used the plastic luggage tags for the first time on our last cruise. They were great!
Great to far they were useful!
Really like and appreciate your tips on staying away from the main elevators as they ARE packed and it’s usually a long wait. Our first cruise many years ago, we were overwhelmed with the number of people around, the pushing crowds, the noise levels, confusion, including ours. We could not find a seat anywhere, not at the restaurants, the little niches everywhere, no room for seating at the buffet, nowhere, it was truly awful. A lot has changed in recent years; embarkation is more controlled and we will certainly be staying away from the buffet on that day also. As per your suggestion of a mimosa on embarkation day sounds perfect to us. I’ll let you know how it works out. We have been on many cruises over the last 25 years and yet we still have trick and tips to learn. Thank you so much for your videos; they are awesome. 👍🇨🇦
We also make two copies of our luggage tags and place one inside just in case the tags fall off out the handle breaks off
My first couple cruises I didn't think sail away was anything special and couldn't understand why everyone seemed to be making a big deal about it. Now its one of my favorite parts of the cruise and I always make sure I'm somewhere special to enjoy it!
We have always ordered champagne and chocolate covered strawberries for Sailaway. We love it.
For sail away, I always go to the serenity deck and relax while watching the land -- and troubles -- disappear for a while!!!
Love this!! 🛳❤️
We really like to board later in the day, like after 1:00. There is usually no line for check in, the cabins are ready, and I don't have to fight for a seat at the buffet. We have a nice lunch somewhere off the ship and then board. We love cruising having been on 14 cruises, but I'm not really interested in lining up and waiting to board and then lining up for a crowded buffet!
That’s a good way to think about it 👌
You come up with topics I think I know all about yet you always have something new I never thought of. Congrats with that. Keep up the good work.
Thanks Julie! The comments from other cruisers and tips that you all scads are priceless
She sure does!
This is all great advice, especially for folks who are new to cruising. I'd encourage newbies to seriously consider your cruise planner. We're experienced cruisers, so we definitely always arrive a day early by air or car to reduce the stress. The luggage tag holders are worth their weight in gold! We just replaced our cruise "carry-on" bags with the Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Underseat Rolling Tote. It's excellent, and priced well. It's a great rollaboard bag, for domestic or International flights, and it also has a trolley sleeve to ride on your checked bag. It's the perfect bag to hold your remaining clothes, slippers, toiletries, and electronics at the end of the cruise, after handing your bigger bag to the crew the night before. Subscribed!
I’m going to check out the Travelpro carry on bag you mentioned. Sounds like a good one! Thanks for all the tips & kind words 😊
We try to get an early check-in time so we can start our vacation ASAP and enjoy as much of the ship as possible! We celebrate sail away by getting a drink and then going to the Lido deck or Sun deck to watch the scenery and everyone on shore waving at us which depends on the port of course. After that, we go to dinner and celebrate some more! Embarkation day is the best! Thanks for the tips!
My husband and I went on a Panama Canal cruise on Royal Caribbean with friends several years ago. On embarkation day, my girlfriend & I went to check out the spa. They asked if we would volunteer to have a facial at no charge. We said yes and they gave us the facials. The idea was that people would see them at work while they were checking out the spa. A great way to start our vacation.
Oh I love this!!
We are about to venture out on our first cruise and have watched many of your videos to help prepare. We feel so much better prepared as we had absolutely no clue about anything cruise related. My wife and myself thank you so much Llana!
Very exciting!! I’m so glad the videos have been helpful as you plan. Have a wonderful cruise 🎉🥂
Same! These videos have me feeling like a pro.
Ileana and Gary Bembridge of Tips for Travelers are the BEST!
Another tip I've learned traveling in regards to luggage tags is make a copy of the tag to place inside right on top or in front pocket. There may be a chance your luggage will still make it to your cabin.
I have really found your videos very very helpful I am leaving to drive to Miami from Tennessee in a couple of days I am doing this all by myself I am a single female I am scared and excited at the same time I'm doing this all for myself to find myself if you know what I mean thank you for your videos they have been very very helpful and calming
I have cruised a few times already, but it’s been 5 years since my last cruise.
I LOVE watching your videos! Even if it’s something I already know, your just so welcoming & have such great info! Thank youuu❤️
You’re gave us so much great information , by the way you look great on black blouse ❤️
I bought the luggage tags after watching one of your previous videos. Labels are all printed now and ready for our Mediterranean cruise in a few weeks. Thanks 😊
Awesome!! One less thing to do - what an amazing cruise 👌
I did too! We leave in 11 days!!!
I did too, plus the power strip and magnetic hooks. I'd love to do silly stuff like decorate the door, since it's our first but the budget is already stretched
Gill Simpson ,maybe we're in the same cruise. Mediterranean cruise going to Barcelona. We will be there April 14
@@tanya0429 sorry we sail on Sky Princess from UK on 9th April. Hope you have a lovely cruise.
Love your videos, taking our first cruise to Bermuda in 3 weeks!!! NCL
I'm going on the same cruise May 5!
Ilana I love your videos. Your voice is calming and not screaming on the video. You have the best information.
It’s like you read my mind 😂 I’m a few weeks out from my first cruise and your videos have been so helpful!
Have an amazing cruise!! 🎉
Just went on a RC Symphony out of Miami and it all went great....embarkation day was super easy....they initially checked our passports and boarding pass.....lastly at the final check point they just scanned our face...it matched with our passport photo and off we went. SUPER easy.......Disembarkation was even easier. Planning another cruise in 2025 for my 60th!!!
My very first cruise on NCL, my sis and I each won a free drink in a souvenir glass during the sail away dance contest! Great way to kick off my love of cruises
On NCL ships we had the tip to eat at O’Sheeans. It worked put great
Love that place!!
OUT, not ‘put’. Edit doesn’t work on my ipad #@-&$
I cruise on Carnival, and I love Sail Away! To me it's the perfect kick off for the cruise, and it's always so much fun! The people can be really hilarious too.
Fun!! I must say I loved the Carnival sailaway. It was a lot of fun 🎉🎉
My partner and I ALWAYS arrive the day before now - just ONCE he talked me into arriving the day of the cruise - I was stressed to the max envisaging delayed flights, road traffic accidents, lost luggage etc. I will NEVER EVER arrive on the day of sailing again - unless I live in the departure port city. Great videos too! We have cruised many times and do a lot of what your videos cover - but there is always something we haven't considered or thought of that you go over :)
One of the embarcation day specials I enjoy is the specialty dining. I have received a free bottle of wine or a discount by going to the specialty restaurant on the first night.
Binge watching all your videos!! Getting prepared for my first cruise in august!
Just bought your guide!
So glad you’re enjoying the videos as you get ready for your cruise! So exciting!! Thanks for your purchase :)
I have never done anything special on sail away, except to enjoy the view on the top deck. Thanks again for sharing these helpful tips! 😍🙏🤩
I had the lost luggage happen because of the paper tags. Took me until almost dinner time to find my suitcase. Now I ALWAYS use the plastic holders. They are well worth the money. Have them in both sizes.
Oh no! Thanks for the warning 😬
We always await until our cabin is open. Then, I decorate it according to our celebration. I love unpacking right away so everything will be organized and in its place.
Love this!
My husband and I are taking our first cruise in June. Super excited and a lot of family is going as well. But your videos have been life savers!! I’m so grateful and thank you for sharing your tips. ❤😂
I purchased the luggage tags for our past two cruises & love them!!! Regarding embarkation raffles etc, my son & I recently sailed on Mardi Gras & I ended up winning a $125 spa credit!!! I had never had a massage or spa treatment (my kids have gotten them , paying for it themselves but I had never. I got a hot stone massage, oh my goodness, loved it!!! I fell asleep lol! I told my hubby I am going to treat myself every cruise from now on lol!!
This is amazing!! Nice win & well deserved pampering I’m sure👌
Weather permitting - I love to sit on my balcony and sip champagne as the ship sails away!!! Thank you for another great video.
Love this!!
I have been binging your videos. My kids and I are going on our first cruise and I have purchased almost all of your items you have listed or items that are very similar.
I’m so glad the videos and suggestions have been helpful! 🛳🎉
If you are flying in, don't attach your luggage tags before you are off the plane. I have the plastic luggage tags and even with the steel attachment, one was ripped off by the airlines on my last trip.
Good point 👍
We don't use the steel attachment that comes with the plastic tag holders. We use plastic zip ties instead.
Very true. The man at the luggage store where I bought my tags suggested I put them in my carry-on and as soon as I claimed my luggage at the airport, to put them on then.
I bought a set of packing cubes that you recommend..LOVE THEM..just take the cube out and put that in your drawer. Pull out what you need each day. When it's time to end your cruise, if you have anything left in there, just zip it and when you get home, you know it's clean, then put it away. 😊
I love how you’re using them!! Good point about the clean items too 👏
I also love the Sail away parties and end up crying for some reason. Tears of joy that is.
Awe!! 🎉🛳❤️
I had to use motion sickness medication one time and even the non drowsy put me out for the day.
I'm sensitive to medications, so if I had to do it again, I would start small on the dosage, maybe a quarter or half of a dose and see how that worked before taking the suggested dose.
The wristbands for motion sickness have been very helpful as well. Putting them on before the ship sets sail yields the best result.
We have cruised a lot and it's rare I have issues though sometimes rough conditions can't be completely avoided. Here's my finger cross for calm seas on our upcoming cruise at the end of this month. Thanks for your videos. 🛳
Hi Illana, one thing that surprised me. I could look at the safety video(Mariner of the Seas) on the shuttle to the ship. So when i got on the ship i could go straight to muster station. And Ta Da i was done! PS i always preorder champagne and chocolate covered strawberries if not provided as a perk to my cabin along with shrimp or guacamole and salsa with chips when traveling with friends for us to sit out on the balcony
This is great to know! I’m going on oasis soon so I’ll do this. I love the way you order for your balcony 👌
Ilana, I would add a 1-a....DO YOUR MUSTER DRILL, before you eat. Especially with e-muster, it is easy to forget.
Good idea!
The cruise planner calmed me down to the point I am not obsessed anymore with getting our first trip right. Thank you! Highly recommend this
I’m so glad the cruise planner is helpful for you, especially for a first cruise! Thanks for the feedback & for your purchase :)
We are seasoned cruisers, but I’ve watched all of your videos and I love them. We are doing a HolyLand 12 night cruise in September 2024 on Royal and have a six other couples traveling with us. I’m trying to absorb things to pass on to them. Your videos are great and I take away something from each one of them. Thank you.
I always think I've got everything covered cruising but Ilana always provides the best gold and hidden gems!! Also, I just stocked up on a bunch of the items you have linked for our Holland America Christmas cruise through the Panama Canal aboard the Volendam, so thank you for your stamp of approval!! Can wait for that Champaign Sail-a-way!!
We are not into the crowded party for sail away. We he'd to the library! View is great and lotsa room! Lol
Great idea! I hadn’t thought of that space but I like it
Love Sail Away so much! The wonderful dancers and the energy just kicks off the cruise! We grab our Lido chairs ASAP and order up the drinks to wait for the show!
Love sail-away! Always like to be on the top deck with a drink in hand while departing the port! Thanks for the video!
So fun!! Thanks Mary
I also put copies of luggage tag and other printout with room #!inside suitcase
Very smart!!
I have a very flexible lightweight notebook with dividers with pockets and I label the dividers with all necessary needs like excursion docs, airplane boarding passes, boarding docs, everything that we need and it is handy and this can change from trip to trip. We love the plastic boarding luggage tag holders,, what a lifesaver..
We always walk down to another set of elevators depending where our cabin is located. Yes, we always find another dining option by scoping out the dining before boarding. Once we eat, we have been very lucky that our cabin has been ready as our lunch is done and our luggage is waiting so we unpack, change and head up for the sail away.
Wow, we can watch the muster drill before we leave home? What a lifesaver! Just one more thing to get off the list and out of the way before boarding and head to lunch.
When we lock that front door, all of our stress is gone and we are vacay mode. We forget about everything cause we did a month of check lists and planning and making sure everything is set so we can enjoy our cruise.
Love the way you plan and cruise!
@@LifeWellCruised
Thank you! 💙
I took the best nap in my life during sail away on my first cruise.
Love embarkation day. I love to dance, eat and meeting new people.😍👋🏾👋🏾
I try to go the sail away party, I love the leaving aspect.🎉
I love your informative tips!!!! we have the extended balcony on the back of the ship. We stay there on sail-away as we have a panoramic view!!! We
'sail on 4/3 and we Can Not wait:):)
What a view!! You’re right - we should all go to your cabin 😉😂
Love the champagne 🍾 tip!!
80 days until our first cruise! I’m glad I got the planner already. Your tip about arriving a day early took a lot of stress off of us. We’ll be flying into Venice and staying there and use the cruise line transfer to Ravenna on embarkation day (2 hour drive). We were told that they wouldn’t do the transfer until embarkation day, which makes sense with a long drive. We even planned to stay an extra night when the cruise is finished.
You won’t regret it! Good start to an amazing cruise. Thanks for your purchase 😊
Hey Drexwell looks like we’ll be on the same cruise! We are also staying in Venice before our cruise on Azamara Onward so will be transferred to Ravenna for embarkation. Like yourselves, we are staying a night in Barcelona after the cruise. This will also be our first cruise 😀 With needing to have a Covid test result within 72 hrs we have opted to get our test before we board. Is this the same for you? It will add to the time to board but can’t see any other option. Will keep checking rules and regulations as it’s constantly changing. It’s exciting though🎉⚓️🚢🇬🇧
@@cu4wur6023 This is our first cruise also! We ended up going with Celebrity for the Greek cruise though. Yes, we were worried about how to handle the drive from Venice to Ravenna. We thought about the train, but we didn't want to carry our luggage around. We just ended up getting a private driver in a little car. It wasn't too expensive, but the weird part was to pay a deposit and the rest had to be paid to the driver directly with cash. We weren't given the option to pay all of it up front.
As for the COVID testing, since we'll be arriving a day earlier, we thought we would have to wait until we get there to be tested within the timeframe that the cruise line wants. I wouldn't be surprised if these regulations change, but for now, we're just going to have to fork out the money to get supervised telehealth test kits. Do you have any plans on how you're going to get the testing done?
I agree, everything changes so fast, but we're very excited too.
@@drexellking8931 Oh, your on a Celebrity cruise to Greece! Sounds lovely, only ever been to Corfu once many moons ago now. Ours is a cruise of the Mediterranean. We are in Venice for 2 nights then getting a transfer from the hotel by water taxi to the pick up point for the coach that will take us to Ravenna to embark Azamara Onward. When we looked into the vaccination options it stated a test to be done and pay for before boarding the ship. To be honest it’s stressing me out this side of it incase there is a problem of some sort. Just wish we could do before we leave. No doubt there will be quite a few hoops to jump through. One of the tutorials I watched said that a lot of cruise ships are not sailing to full capacity but finding out what capacity YOUR ship is sailing can be hard to find out. Interesting, and I’m going to try and find out. Would mean more room lol. All these rules and regulations on ship but different countries you stop at have their rules. I know Croatia have thrown all theirs out the window and we’re stopping there. Our ship rules states anyone not sticking to regulations for the ship whilst off it will be kicked off 😱🤷🏻♀️very confusing 🤔 being first time cruisers you don’t know what to expect in general but I know it’s going to be great either way. Have a wonderful cruise and hope it’s plain sailing 🚢⚓️🫡
Hi 😎 my favorite cruise time is sail away. Such a relaxing time to put life on hold for a while. I always hang out on my veranda and enjoy a bottle of bubbly. I’ve been spoiled by Celebrity Cruises as they always include the bubbly and something yummy to nibble on in the cabin. I’m counting the days until my cruise in January! 🥂🚢
Just to let you know.....The Port of Galveston in Texas will not deliver wine or champagne (or any alcoholic beverages) until the ship is out of port and a couple of miles out to sea. So if planning a champagne toast goodbye at Sail, better bring your own.
I love to count down to sail away!!
I also make an extra copy of my luggage tag and place it inside my luggage just in case my luggage tag falls off 😊
We leave in 5 days and the cruise-mares have begun! I'm pretty sure it's bc we're committing the #1 no-no and that's flying in the day of the cruise.
Also we're doing something different this time for sail away. We've noticed it's not a big deal to us but we do want to do something special so we booked a massage for that time!
For sail away I like to be up on the deck, enjoying the music and waving good bye..
Fun times! 🛳🎉
On one of my cruises, my hubby wanted to go check out the spa. We both put our names in for the raffle. My name was called for a complimentary head massage!
Nice!! 👏
On one cruise, I “bribed” the spa staff to leave a gift certificate - which I paid for in advance- in my Mom’s (and sister) stateroom with a NOTE saying their stateroom had won a spa treatment in a raffle. Spa services can be pricey, and my Mom would have “complained” if I had not been sneaky about it!! 😎👏🏻👏🏻
It is true that you feel lighter on that sail away moment. I have joined raffles in the Gym ara and 2 times I have won credits towards a Spa, once $100 and another time $300. Another time my son won $100 too. That is so much fun!! Thanks for your videos. They are fun and informative.
Wow, that’s amazing!! Maybe I should join more contests 😉😂
I leave in 2 days for Caribbean on NCL Encore. We walk to aft of the ship JD elevators are empty. We hit the scream by our room and make our theater reservations for up coming shows. I get a drink and chicken wings at The Local. Thanks for what you do!
I'm taking notes. Thanks for these helpful tips, I'm planning a cruise for next year, God's willing 🙏 😊
I haven't been on one in 10 years. I hope everything goes well. Have a wonderful day!!!😊😊
SAIL AWAY!!! Yes! Yes! Yes!
Thanks IIana! I love all your videos! I hope you and your family continue to stay safe and well! God bless!🙏😍🙏
Great timing. We board The Ruby Princess on Sunday. - Laura
I'm going to Alaska at the end of June on the ruby princess , keep us updated if you liked it.
Have an amazing cruise Laura!!
Hi there, Ilanna! New subscriber here! I'm absolutely loving your hacks and tips! You're definitely helping me prepare for mine and my family's very first cruise!
I have a couple of questions for you as a first time cruiser.
First off, can we just write our information down on a piece of paper to place in our luggage tags?
In your opinion, what is the cheapest most convenient way to book a cruise? A travel agent or online?
I'd like to add that I'm terrified of the ocean and cannot swim, but it's something I've always wanted to experience and I'm super nervous and excited at the same time. Haha!
Thank you for all that you do here! I appreciate this so much! ❤️
I'm planning a cruise for next year so hopefully everything goes well. 😊😊
Great video Illana. You are so right about that amazing feeling when the ship leaves port on embarkation day. I have never felt so relaxed. Another tip is be prepared for any taxes you may have to pay. When me & my partner got to the cruise port in Panama we had to pay $5 each. It didn't bother me but it was good just to be prepared and have the correct money to speed up the process ☺️
Love this, and I didn’t know about the tax in Panama and being prepared is definitely something that makes things stress-free
I’ll be sailing on crown princes next year. What size luggage tags should I buy. I’ve seen the clear envelopes on this video
Hi! Thanks for all of the links your the products. The passport wallet wristlet is no longer available, can you recommend an alternative?
I keep two of the plastic luggage tag holders attached to my luggage all the time. I keep a long and the wide one that way any cruise line luggage tag will fit.
Thank you for all your tips!! I like to take notes and refer back to them when my cruise gets close.
I would like to say thank you 🤠 for the info you have give me. I think that it will make our cruise so much easier as we are two older ladies. We are going in May. I also ordered the luggage tags you recommended and the cruise certified electric plug.
I’m so glad it’s been helpful 😊
Good suggestions. Thank you.
I put a copy of my luggage tag in each luggage. This way if my luggage tag gets torn off, the crew could find out what room it goes to.
Great information and lots of tips you shared. Thank you
Thanks for watching!!
Like others, I bought the luggage tags on your recommendation, love your videos, thanks so much!
I’m so glad that suggestion was helpful! Thanks so much for your kind words:)
Love the plastic tag holders. I have the wide ones . I do have to cut the printed tags to fit as P &O and or Cunard labels don’t fit that well on their own but never mind it only takes seconds to trim and fold them to fit. It’s so worth it. I think I paid about £7 for a set of 5 from Amazon. I have to admit I don’t bother with sail away. Half the time I’ve never even realised we’ve left especially if it’s a later sail and it’s dark. Very useful video and a pleasure to watch.
You’re right, you can still use the same tags and adjust. Interesting, I don’t think I’ve ever sailed away once it was dark :)
Here in the U K in the winter it’s dark by 5 so winter cruises sailing at 6 will always be in the dark.Is pretty to see all the lights going done The Solent ( way out to sea from Southampton but is my
Often too cold to sit outside . I often just watch through the windows in MDR or other lounges and bars.
@@Philippa-k
I ordered sushi and drinks for my sailaway in May can't wait for it 🤗
Nice idea!
I wish that the cruise lines would make it where simple questions can be asked and answered on an app. I have a service dog so I HAVE to go to GS as soon as I board when I go next year to find out where the potty areas are on the ship. Nowadays, there is no reason why they can't have virtual ques for simple questions. Then the physical lines can be for those with true issues that need to be addressed.
Last two cruises our family switched it up. On the California coastal we were on the top sail away party 🎉 super fun. On our Alaskan cruise we booked a specialty diner at the Crown Grill. Again super delicious food & fun times.
Love it!!
Yea Princess. Our embarkation on Island Princess from Los Angeles was the smoothest ever. Arrived during our assigned time, had all our luggage tagged, Our Medallions were ready, passports out and Covid tests on our phones. We went into the very large terminal and sat in our designated waiting section until called. From arrival to on the ship was 30 minutes. All because we were prepared and the “Wonderful Princess Medallion “. Sure beats the hour+ we stood in line in 2012 in Barcelona for our Med cruise.
Thank you for the great video. I just purchased the luggage tags from your Amazon store 😀
Thanks for watching and for shopping at my Amazon shop :)
My daughter and I sailed on February 13, which was my birthday, but it was also Super Bowl Sunday. We went to check out the casino and we entered a raffle for the winner/loser of the Super Bowl. I actually picked the losing side… lol. But I won $200. It was a nice way to start my cruise AND it was a wonderful birthday present!
Nice!! 👏👏🎉🎉🎉
Thanks for all the info…💙💙💙
You mention getting a wheelchair if standing for too long on and off the ship. I was just informed by Royal Caribbean out of Port Canaveral, they do not do that anymore unless you rent a wheelchair. Not sure what that costs, but I know it used to be free.
Oh no! I’m sorry to hear that. I hope they’ll reverse this
Hi Ilana. Catching up on videos after our two weeks Emerald adventure from a couple weeks ago. Great advice in this episode. Those luggage tag holders are super good to have. Flying in the day before, an absolute must for us. One scary embarkation day moment was one of our group of 7 almost got on the Caribbean Princess, luggage and all. He was at terminal 2 and we were already aboard the Emerald at terminal 4. Luckily it was rectified and all was well by sailaway. Drinks and pizza by the pool, we had a fun start at sailaway! 👍🍹🌞
Oh my!! Crazy to think that it could happen, but since we give our luggage to the porters first, I could see the potential. Great comments and I hope you had a wonderful cruise!
I love you advice for avoiding the buffet on the first day of the cruise, however for my trip on royal caribbean the main dinning room is only open for dinner on the very first day 😔
Royal Caribbean eliminated the plastic straws for paper straws.I brought some stainless steel reusable straws with a cleaning brush at Target.
Just order the Princess bag tags (4 pack) from Amazon!!
Not sure if anybody addressed this yet, but Carnival's app now lets you set an "appointment" for guest services, so no more waiting in line. (Supposedly) Just booked our second cruise for this year and was told this by our Carnival cruise planner.
Great to know
Is it generally acceptable to bring a bottle of sparkling cider in case you don't drink alcohol?
Hi Ilana, when we sailed away last November on the Celebrity Millennium in our aft Family Oceanview Verandah, we brought two bottles of wine and sipped those watching Ft Lauderdale get smaller and smaller. It was surely a Life Well Cruised. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut counting down the days until our June Bermuda 🛳
Love this! You had the perfect location 🥂
How did you like the aft location? We will be in an aft location on a Norway cruise next year.
@@eleanorstenberg699 Good morning Eleanor, we were on the Celebrity Millennium and had Cabin #8166. It was on the aft starboard corner. So we got a full 270 degree (full aft and along the right side) view. And since it had two separate sleeping areas (290 sq ft) for just the two of us, it was wonderful. Being on the aft we felt no movement at all. And being where we were, we had quick access to the aft elevator, down to the MDR and up to the Oceanview Buffet and Sunset Bar. Depending on your deck and cabin at the back of the ship, if you're on the Millennium class ships, deck 7 has the longest veranda, deck 8 shorter and deck 9 the shortest veranda (tunnel appearance is the best way to describe it). "Nyt cruiset ditt" hopefully means "Enjoy your cruise" in Norwegian. Hi from Bob and Jill in Connecticut