According to a new 2025 cruise forecast just released by AAA, a record 19 million Americans will go on ocean cruise vacations this year, a 4.5% increase over 2024, when 18.2 million Americans cruised.
As more Americans than ever choose to cruise, many travelers are booking cruise vacations for the first time. Being a first-time cruiser is exciting, but not knowing what to expect during your first vacation at sea can be a little daunting too.
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Luckily, experienced cruisers are a wealth of information and many are happy to share their top cruise tips for first-timers whenever they’re asked. One of the great things about cruising is that it’s not a secret club. The cruising community is always welcoming new members.
Norwegian Cruise Line passengers recently demonstrated this when the cruise line posed a question on its Facebook page.
“Best advice for first-time cruisers? Drop your tips in the comments,” the cruise line posted.
Experienced cruisers showed up, offering their most helpful tips from how to plan and research a Norwegian cruise to how to ensure smooth sailing throughout the voyage.
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Image source: Norwegian Cruise Line
It's essential to do your cruise research
Multiple passengers advised first-time cruisers to make sure to do their research to choose the right ship and itinerary for the kind of vacation they seek.
“Research the ships,” wrote Phyllis Kelly Jeter. “If you need lots of frills and activities, don’t pick a small ship!”
While some travelers choose a cruise for the destinations, others select their cruise based on the ship. Some experienced Caribbean cruisers have found that the cruise ship had a bigger impact on their experience than the ports it visited.
“We've booked by our choice of ports. Next time we'll book by what ship we're on,” said Kris Good. “Most Caribbean ports are similar so the ports don’t matter as much.”
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But for passengers cruising to other destinations, choosing the right itinerary and activities off the ship really does matter.
“We went to Alaska and had a good time but saw zero wildlife. It was the itinerary we chose without knowing what was best,” wrote Cindy Charamut-Glines. “We are going back but with a totally different itinerary. And better excursions. Pick your excursions when you book they fill up fast.”
Passengers also suggested that those who haven’t cruised before should be prepared for the possibility of seasickness. You won’t know how your body reacts to the movement of the ship until you’re at sea, so it’s a good idea to pack motion sickness medicine.
“Be aware of seasickness during sea days on the open ocean,” said Bert Brescher. “Take sea sickness pills before the ship leaves port.”
Passengers should embark with a patient, relaxed mindset
How to handle the hectic cruise embarkation day was also a key topic discussed.
“First day onboard is super busy. You don't have to see the entire ship on your first day,” said Paul Simcik. “It is better to walk around the ship the next morning to get your bearings of the ship.”
Other passengers recommended skipping the busy buffet for lunch on the first day of the cruise and dining at the onboard pub instead.
“Skip the Garden Cafe on embarkation day. Go check out O'Sheehans,” said Londa Boots. “It will be far less chaotic than the garden cafe. You'll have plenty of time later to go check out the buffet.”
Related: Norwegian Cruise Line passengers rate its dining options
Another passenger suggested avoiding the buffet for breakfast too.
“Enjoy a sit-down breakfast at a main dining room rather than facing the crowds at the buffet,” recommended Bert Brescher.
Advice for first-time cruisers to maintain a relaxed mindset was a common theme throughout the thread.
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“Pack twice as much patience as you think you will need and half the amount of clothes,” suggested Suzanne Camp Nicholas.
“There is no hurry once on board; the bow of the ship arrives at the same time as the stern of the ship,” echoed Anna Alfonsi. “In other words; RELAX, BREATHE, BE KIND!”
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