Avoid These 12 Costly Mistakes First-Time Cruisers Always Make

A cruise can be the ultimate stress-free vacation—an all-inclusive floating resort that takes you to breathtaking destinations while offering world-class dining, entertainment, and relaxation. However, for first-time cruisers, it’s easy to make costly mistakes that can derail your trip or leave you spending way more than expected.

To help you sail smoothly, we’ve compiled the 12 most common (and expensive) mistakes first-time cruisers make—and how you can avoid them.

1. Booking the Wrong Cabin

Your cruise cabin can make or break your experience, yet many first-time cruisers book solely based on price rather than what suits their needs.

What to Avoid:

• Booking an interior cabin if you get claustrophobic.
• Selecting a cabin near noisy areas (nightclubs, pool decks, or engines).
• Assuming an oceanview cabin has a balcony (it may just have a window).

How to Fix It:

• Research deck plans before booking.
• Consider whether you’ll spend more time in the room (if so, a balcony may be worth the splurge).
• If you’re a light sleeper, opt for a cabin on a mid-ship, lower deck away from elevators.

2. Not Budgeting for Extra Costs

Think a cruise is all-inclusive? Think again. Many first-time cruisers are shocked by how much extra costs add up.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For:

• Gratuities (often auto-charged per person, per day).
• Shore excursions (which can be pricier when booked directly through the cruise).
• Wi-Fi packages (which can cost up to $30 per day).
• Specialty dining, drinks, and onboard activities (like spa treatments or fitness classes).

How to Fix It:

• Read the fine print about what’s included in your fare.
• Set a daily spending budget to avoid surprises.
• Take advantage of drink and dining packages if they align with your habits.

3. Waiting Too Long to Book Excursions

Shore excursions are one of the best parts of cruising, but waiting too long to book can mean:

• Higher prices onboard than pre-booking online.
• Limited availability for popular activities (like swimming with dolphins or exploring ruins).
• Settling for overpriced last-minute options.

How to Fix It:

• Research and book excursions in advance (often months before departure).
• Look at independent tour operators for cheaper options.
• If your budget is tight, research free or DIY activities at port stops.

4. Overpacking (or Underpacking!)

Packing for a cruise is different from a regular vacation—many first-timers bring too much or too little.

What to Avoid:

• Overpacking bulky items (cabins have limited space).
• Forgetting cruise essentials (like formal wear for gala nights, motion sickness medication, or power strips for extra outlets).
• Bringing prohibited items (like irons or surge protectors, which are not allowed).

How to Fix It:

• Check your cruise line’s dress codes and baggage policies.
• Pack mix-and-match outfits instead of overloading your suitcase.
• Bring a carry-on bag with essentials (your luggage may take hours to arrive in your cabin).

5. Ignoring the Fine Print on Drink Packages

Many cruisers buy drink packages expecting unlimited cocktails, only to find restrictions buried in the fine print.

Common Issues:

• Some packages exclude premium brands.
• Limits may apply (e.g., 15-drink caps per day on certain lines).
• Packages don’t cover drinks in specialty restaurants.

How to Fix It:

• Read all terms and conditions before purchasing.
• Calculate if you’ll actually drink enough to make it worth the cost.
• Consider bringing wine (some cruise lines allow a bottle per person).

6. Arriving at the Port Too Late

Cruise ships don’t wait—if you’re late, you’re left behind.

What to Avoid:

• Flying in on embarkation day (delayed flights = missed cruise).
• Not checking last boarding times before port visits.

How to Fix It:

• Arrive at least one day early to your embarkation city.
• Set a buffer time when returning from shore excursions.
• Always carry your cruise line’s emergency contact info.

7. Not Bringing Motion Sickness Remedies

Even if you don’t get carsick or seasick normally, cruise motion can hit differently, especially on rough seas.

How to Fix It:

• Pack Dramamine, Bonine, or motion sickness wristbands.
• Opt for a mid-ship, lower deck cabin (the most stable part of the ship).
• Eat ginger candy or drink ginger tea to soothe nausea.

8. Missing Out on Free Activities

Many first-time cruisers spend extra on activities that have free alternatives.

What to Avoid:

• Paying for yoga or fitness classes when the gym is free.
• Booking expensive shows when world-class performances are included.
• Skipping onboard lectures, trivia, and game nights, which can be just as fun as paid excursions.

How to Fix It:

• Review the daily activity schedule to find free entertainment.
• Take advantage of complimentary tastings or events.

9. Forgetting to Check the Daily Itinerary

Every cruise provides a daily schedule of activities, events, and dining options. Many newbies ignore it and miss out.

How to Fix It:

• Read the printed or app-based itinerary each morning.
• Plan your must-do activities in advance.
• Set reminders for shows, events, or limited-time deals.

10. Not Researching the Dress Code

Some cruise lines have formal nights, while others have strict casual vs. evening wear rules.

How to Fix It:

• Check the cruise line’s dress policy before packing.
• Bring at least one dressier outfit for special occasions.

11. Leaving Your Phone on Roaming Mode

International roaming charges can be outrageously high at sea. Many first-timers forget to turn off cellular data, leading to massive phone bills.

How to Fix It:

• Put your phone on airplane mode before leaving port.
• Use Wi-Fi calling or messaging apps instead.
• Purchase a Wi-Fi package if you need consistent access.

12. Not Knowing Tipping Policies

Gratuities are often automatically charged, but first-time cruisers still accidentally double-tip for services.

How to Fix It:

• Check if your gratuities are pre-included in your fare.
• Tip extra only for outstanding service.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide on what mistakes to avoid while cruising! This article was written and edited by a human with AI assistance.