At the beginning of October we published an article outlining our top 5 tips for first time cruisers. Although we would like to think we had some good advice to offer there is no doubt important information we missed. Thanks to Jaime and Chris Carr who upon returning from their first cruise, their honeymoon no less, contacted us to share their experiences. So here are another top 5 tips, but this time from first 
time cruisers.
- Be on time (if not early)
For their first cruise the couple were on one of the larger ships in the Norwegian fleet. More passengers means that restaurants and activities are hectic and packed. Chris noted that in order to get the best seat at any show, or to avoid losing your restaurant reservation you had to be on time. The early bird also caught the first shuttle into port or the best lounge chair around the pool.
- Book everything you can in advance
Whether this was dinner reservations, on board shows or port excursions Jaime recommends booking as much as you can before you leave. This not only allows you to pay in advance but it avoids disappointment if the excursion is full or you cannot get a good seat at the Broadway production. Jaime also emphasized she is not talking days in advance but rather weeks or months.
- Take advantage of the package deals, but not the specialty dining
Since they were on a budget Jaime indicated she was glad they had purchased a beverage package before leaving. Drinks on the ship, whether alcoholic or just soda, were expensive individually so the packages did save them money. She also mentioned that the quality of the buffet and complimentary restaurants was so high that they did not need to spend the extra money on the specialty restaurants. The free dining options offered such variety that it was all you would require to meet any dietary needs, whether it was vegan, gluten free or keto.
- Bring reusable bottle waters
There is always a concern about water quality when travelling in foreign ports. Buying bottled water is an option, but can get expensive over time. There is good water readily available on the ship so fill your bottle in the morning and stay well hydrated, especially in tropical ports.
- Be sure to bring everything else you may need with you
There is very little to buy on the ship in the way of necessities or toiletries and finding a pharmacy while in port can be time consuming or take you off the beaten path.
Think ahead and pack what you may need. It is much easier to bring stuff home than be without.
Despite a few missteps Jaime and Chris really enjoyed their first time aboard a cruise ship. Itinerary, size of ship and planning aside a cruise is what you make of it. Accept that there will be crowds and manage your expectations accordingly. Accept as well that there will be a next time, for it is difficult not to fall in love with cruise vacations.