Top Ten 'Don't Dos' For Your Cruise

• Cruise Etiquette: Master the unwritten rules of life at sea, from balcony manners to dining dress codes.

• Money Saving Tips: Learn why booking timing matters and how to handle gratuities without stress.

• Safety First: Discover the essential safety rules that keep you (and your fellow passengers) safe while sailing.

If you’ve never been on a cruise holiday before, you’re in for a wonderfully unique experience. Cruises are unlike any other type of holiday! 

The ability to discover far-flung, awe-inspiring destinations all over the world - such as the majestic Norwegian Fjords, sun-kissed beaches in the Caribbean, historic cities in the Mediterranean and many more locations - in the stylish, comfortable surroundings of a stunning cruise ship is an unforgettable experience. 

But you’ll find there are certain things you just don’t do on a cruise – whether that’s to ensure you have the best time, due to established etiquette or for safety reasons.

Here are our top ten things to avoid on your cruise holiday:

1. Don't Miss Out On Your Dream Cruise

There’s so much variety across cruise holidays that we’re sure there’s a perfect one for everyone. From different itineraries, facilities and budgets to styles of entertainment or dining, make sure you thoroughly research all the options.

And remember, if all the choices seem a little overwhelming, get in contact with our Cruise.co.uk specialists, who will be more than happy to help.

2. Don't Pay More Than You Have To

Cruise prices are renowned for fluctuating, and it’s not uncommon to meet a fellow cruise guest who’s paid significantly more or less than you. 

The key is the timing; early-bird bookers and last-minute bargain hunters often pick up the best deals. Sign up to cruise line alerts to ensure you don’t miss out.

3. Don't Choose The Wong Cruise Companion

Cruise ships may be large, but they can still feel pretty small when you’re avoiding a cruise companion who you’ve fallen out with. 

Whether it’s a new partner, family member or friend, make sure your relationship is tried-and-tested before stepping onboard, or sea days may end up feeling rather awkward.

4. Don't Diet

A cruise holiday is not the time to diet when there are so many freely available, tasty and delicious treats onboard!

From Michelin-starred, fine dining to exciting dishes from around the world and the most fabulous cocktails, cruise cuisine should be a treat to be enjoyed. 

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of opportunities to balance this out in the pool, gym or at an exercise class on the ship!

5. Don't Annoy Your Cabin Neighbours

If you’re enjoying a cabin with a balcony, it may be easy to forget how close your neighbours are (and how many you have!) when looking out across the open waters. 

Nevertheless, noise travels easily between cabins, so be respectful and avoid loud music, entertainment or arguments while onboard!

6. Don't Try To Smuggle Illicit Alcohol Onboard

It may seem like a clever way to save money, but cruise ships are strict about the alcohol brought onboard. Sharp-eyed crew check to ensure these rules are being followed and will confiscate anything found. 

Avoid embarrassment by checking beforehand what you are legitimately allowed to carry on.

7. Don't Smoke In Undesignated Areas

Cruise ships have specific areas for smoking to ensure everyone is kept safe. Don’t assume that smoking is okay because you’re outside on your balcony. 

Additionally, ships have cameras all over and smoking in the wrong place could lead to a substantial fine.

8. Don't Throw Things Overboard

Never throw anything overboard, as they can be blown back on deck. 

If it’s a lit cigarette, it could pose a safety issue. But also avoid hanging stuff on cabin railings or sitting on them yourself – with the vessel’s movement, it could end in disaster!

9. Don't Tip Crew Or Staff

Tipping is expected on cruise holidays, and it can form a significant part of the hardworking crew’s wages. 

However, it is so part of the culture of cruising that most cruise lines either include a gratuity package as part of your holiday price or charge it automatically to your ship bill, so there’s no need to tip individually.

To avoid confusion, check with your cruise line before your holiday, to understand their gratuity and tip policy.

10. Don't Be Late!

Cruise ships run on a strict schedule, and guests must be back onboard at the specified time. But these rigid timetables don’t mean you can’t enjoy exploring independently when you dock at a new port.

Just make sure you plan plenty of time to get back from your shore excursion. Double-check that your watch is synchronised to ‘ship’s time’ too, which may differ from local times, or you may literally miss the boat!

Make sure your next cruising holiday is smooth sailing, and keep in mind our top ‘Don’t Dos’ on your next cruise!