Dear First-Time Cruiser: A Letter from One Who’s Been There

Dear First-Time Cruiser: A Letter from Someone Who’s Been There

Hey there, First-Time Cruiser,

First of all — yay, you! You're about to embark on a vacation that’s equal parts exciting, relaxing, and possibly overwhelming (but in a good way, promise). You’ve booked the ship. You’ve googled “Do I really need cruise lanyards?” And now you’re wondering what you’ve gotten yourself into.

Let me ease your mind:
You’re going to love cruising. But as someone who’s been there — from overpacking on my first trip to now helping clients navigate their own first-time jitters — I thought I’d write you a little letter. One filled with real talk, helpful tips, and a few things I wish I had known before I ever set sail.

🚢 First of All: The Ship is Massive. And That’s Okay.

Yes, cruise ships can feel like floating cities. And that first day onboard? It might feel like you’ve landed in a very glamorous, slightly confusing shopping mall at sea.

Give yourself grace.
Wander. Explore. Grab a drink. Don’t feel pressured to do it all in the first hour. You’ll get the lay of the land faster than you think — and you’ll find “your” spot onboard by day two (mine’s usually near a coffee bar or infinity hot tub 😎).

🧳 You Will Pack Too Much — Everyone Does.

But let’s talk strategy:

• You don’t need 10 pairs of shoes.

• You do need comfortable walking shoes for excursions.

• Bring a sweater — yes, even in the Caribbean. Ships get chilly.

• Don’t forget a swimsuit in your carry-on (so you can hit the pool while you wait for your luggage to arrive).

• And yes, pack that formal night outfit. Even if you’re not a “dress up” person, it’s fun once you’re onboard.

Bonus tip: those magnetic hooks you saw on TikTok? Totally worth it.

🍽️ You’ll Never Be Hungrier Than On a Cruise — And You’ll Never Have to Be.

Food. Is. Everywhere.
From buffet breakfasts and poolside tacos to elegant multi-course dinners — it’s all part of the experience. Try the escargot (you might like it!). Order two desserts (you will like them). Don’t be shy about asking for recommendations.

And yes, room service is magical at midnight. Just go with it.

⚓ Shore Excursions: Plan Ahead, But Leave Room for Magic

You don’t need to book every port excursion through the cruise line — but you do need to plan. Research what each port offers, and consider a mix of activities: one cultural, one beachy, one chill.

And sometimes? The best memories come from ditching the plans and wandering through a seaside town with gelato in hand.

📶 Internet is Spotty. And That’s a Gift in Disguise.

Yes, you can buy a Wi-Fi package. Yes, it will probably frustrate you at some point.
But the silver lining? Disconnection.

It’s rare and refreshing to be unplugged. So lean in. Trade scrolling for star-gazing. Let people back home wait a few days to hear how fabulous it was — they’ll survive.

❤️ You Might Catch Feelings

There’s something about cruising — the ocean air, the daily sunsets, the way time slows down between ports — that just gets to you. You may find yourself falling in love with the experience, the destinations, and possibly the idea of cruising as your new favorite way to travel.

Consider yourself warned: many first-time cruisers become cruise lifers. 😉

🧭 My Final Advice?

Don’t overthink it.
Ask questions.
Pack a sense of adventure.
Let yourself be surprised.
And if something doesn’t go perfectly? It’s still a story worth telling.

And hey — if you ever need a guide, a packing list, or a cheerleader for cruise #2, you know where to find me.

Bon voyage,
A Fellow Cruiser Who’s Been There