A Crash Course in Awkward Silence #0032

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If you’ve ever stepped into a cruise ship elevator, you know it’s not just a lift, it’s an experience. For something that lasts 30 seconds, it somehow manages to reveal the best and worst of human nature. There’s a rhythm to it, a silent dance of eye contact, button pushing, and the occasional “are we even moving?” pause.

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On land, we take elevators for granted. But at sea? They’re their own ecosystem. And just like buffets or loungers by the pool, there are unspoken rules that everyone seems to forget the moment they board.

Rule #1: The Button Mirage

No matter how many times the button has already been pressed, someone always presses it again…just to make sure. As if the elevator needs extra encouragement. Bonus points if they press both directions. (You know who you are!)

And when you’re inside? It’s a race to the control panel. There’s always that one person who becomes the self-appointed button captain, pressing everyone’s floor numbers with authority, sometimes without even waiting to hear what deck you said.

Rule #2: The Great Wait Debate

Cruise elevators are notorious for testing patience. You’ll wait what feels like 10 minutes for an empty one… only for it to arrive packed tighter than the buffet line on lobster night.

And yet, no matter how full it looks, someone will still try to squeeze in. They’ll flash a polite smile and say, “I’ll just tuck in the corner,” even though there hasn’t been “corner space” since Deck 6.

Rule #3: The Floor 14 Mystery

There’s always that one person who gets off on the wrong floor, realizes it too late, and tries to sprint back in as the doors close. Or the person who presses 14 when they meant 4, then pretends they totally meant to take a detour to the top deck.

Honestly, we’ve all been there. Ships are floating cities, and between fore, aft, and midship, even seasoned cruisers lose track. No judgment, just maybe don’t look so confident when pressing the wrong button.

Rule #4: Elevator Etiquette 101

When the doors open, let people get out first. It’s not a game of musical chairs. And if you’re blocking the doorway, even slightly you’re about to meet some very polite but very pointed Canadian sighs. (yes, that could be me…your friendly Canadian!)

Also, remember: not everyone is able to take the stairs. So if you’re perfectly capable and it’s only two decks up, consider walking. The elevators are a lifeline for those with mobility challenges.

Rule #5: The Silent Social Hour

There’s an unspoken bond between elevator passengers. You might exchange a knowing nod, a small smile, maybe even a “wow, we’re all going to 12, huh?” moment. And then, when the doors open, you all disappear, strangers once again.

Except on the last day of the cruise. Then it’s chaos. Suitcases, confusion, and the occasional “wait, this is going down?”

The Takeaway

Cruise elevators might be small, but they’re a big part of the cruising experience, little capsules of shared humanity floating between decks. Next time you step inside one, take a breath, smile, and remember: we’re all just trying to make it to Deck 14 without pressing the wrong button twice!

You never know…maybe a short elevator ride will turn into a funny story to share when you get back home!

Until next week,

Tara

Ps: Next week, we’re stepping onboard! 🚢 Find out what smart cruisers do (and don’t do) in those first 24 hours, before the ship even leaves port.

Pps: If you haven’t already, please follow the Board The Cruise Facebook page where I share interesting cruise info and updates. Thanks for your support!