September 18, 2026, 12:33 pm | Read time: 5 minutes

A Good Start on Board

Choose Cabin Location Not Just by Price

If you’re sensitive to motion, a cabin in the lower, middle part of the ship is usually a better choice. For restful nights, it’s also worth checking the deck plan to see if there are restaurants, elevators, discos, or other potential noise sources above, below, or next to the cabin.

Pack Important Items in Carry-On

At the terminal, the main luggage is usually checked in and later delivered to the cabin. Since this can take some time, medications, travel documents, valuables, chargers, and swimwear, if needed, should be packed in the carry-on.

Get to Know the Ship Early

Especially on the first day, a cruise ship can seem overwhelming. Those who get an overview right after boarding will find restaurants, bars, theaters, and pool areas much faster later. Helpful are information boards in the corridors and the onboard app.

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Useful Helpers for Everyday Life at Sea

Towel Clips Against Gusts of Wind

On open decks, even a strong breeze can cause towels to slip off lounge chairs or be blown away. Large towel clips can help and are also suitable for securing swimwear on the balcony.

Wait Before Using Wi-Fi

Internet access at sea can be expensive. If you only want to send or receive messages occasionally, you don’t necessarily need a comprehensive package. In many port cities, free Wi-Fi is available in cafes or restaurants.

Calculate Beverage Packages in Advance

Not every beverage package is automatically a savings model. If you only occasionally consume alcoholic drinks on a cruise, you should compare the expected costs for water, coffee, soft drinks, wine, or cocktails with the package price.

Keep Your Boarding Card Handy

On many ships, the boarding card also serves as a cabin key, ID, and payment method. With a lanyard or neck strap, it remains easily accessible at all times.

More Comfort on the Journey

Discover Quiet Spots Away from the Pool

While many guests gather around the pool on sea days, other outdoor areas are often much quieter. A walk across various decks helps find hidden viewpoints and relaxing retreats.

Regularly Check Your Onboard Account

Drinks, spa treatments, specialty restaurants, excursions, or purchases are usually billed directly to the boarding card. Checking the onboard app prevents unpleasant surprises at the final billing.

Don’t Overload the Program

Many cruise newcomers plan extensive excursions for every port. However, it’s worth also scheduling time for onboard offerings. For many travelers, the ship itself is one of the highlights of the trip.

Listen to Crew Tips

Staff know the ships inside out. Those who ask about quiet breakfast spots, beautiful viewpoints, or less frequented areas often receive valuable advice.

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Organization on Board

Safety Drill is Mandatory

The safety briefing is part of the program for all passengers. During this drill, the “muster drill,” it is explained how to behave in an emergency and how to use life jackets correctly. The designated muster station is noted on the boarding card and on the cabin door.

Create Additional Storage with Magnetic Hooks

Since the walls of many cabins are made of metal, strong magnetic hooks can be used flexibly. Jackets, bags, or swimwear can be hung up in a space-saving manner.

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Order with a Hanging Organizer

Especially in smaller cabins, a foldable organizer helps to neatly store sunscreen, charging cables, and other small items.

Check Tipping Policies in Advance

Depending on the cruise line, the regulations differ. Some providers automatically charge a daily service fee to the onboard account, while others have it already included in the travel price.

Practical Tips for Excursions and Overnight Stays

Pack a Reusable Water Bottle

A personal water bottle can be practical on the ship and during shore excursions. On some cruise ships, refill stations are available. However, refilling in restaurants is often not allowed.

Earplugs for Quiet Nights

Even seemingly quiet cabins can become noisy due to slamming doors, elevators, engine noises, or early port maneuvers. Earplugs take up little space in luggage and can promote restful sleep.

Use the Clothesline in the Shower

Many cabins have a retractable clothesline in the shower area. It is suitable for drying swimwear or small hand-washed items.

Waterproof Bag for Shore Excursions

During beach visits or water excursions, a waterproof phone case or dry bag protects important items like a smartphone, boarding card, and cash from moisture and sand.

Set Meal Times Early

In many main restaurants, cruise guests can choose between fixed meal times and flexible dining times. If you prefer specific times or a desired table size, you should specify this as early as possible.