Things you wish you’d known before you cruised for the first time

[Anonymous]

I wish I had known not to go. Under any circumstances.

[Anonymous]

You don’t get much time to explore the ports of call, especially larger ones like Juneau. If you do an excursion then you often have only one or two hours of free time. Just something to be prepared for. If I ever do Alaska again or do Europe I will probably avoid excursions to have more time to just relax and enjoy a meal/drink somewhere.

[Anonymous]

If the cruise line has an app, download it and set it up before you board. Download anything you think you'll need in advance. The WiFi can be really screwy onboard.

Book onboard shows or activities as early as you can - before the departure if possible or as soon as you board. Go directly to the concierge office. Show up early for any events or activities too.

Definitely bring all over the counter meds, toiletries, sunscreen, etc. They sell them onboard but it's $$$.

Have everyone in your group test their room key cards as soon as you go to your cabin. If anyone's card doesn't work, go directly to cruise services. Mine was programmed in to the wrong passenger so nothing worked and they had to give me a new one.

If you are out and about at a destination on your own using local transportation, plan to be back at the ship no less than 2 hours ahead of deadline because thousands of other people will be all trying to come back at the same time. With so many trying to get back by 3pm or whatever, it will be hard to find taxis, there will be traffic heading in that direction, and public transportation/ferries may be packed and slow with long lines. Have alternative plans if your intended mode of transportation is unavailable or full.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I wish I had known not to go. Under any circumstances.

100%!!!! Never, ever, ever again.

[Anonymous]

The running people video is hilarious.