don't do this #008

First-time cruiser? You’re in for something awesome. But cruising has its own weird little rulebook—stuff you only learn after doing it wrong once (or watching someone else wipe out in flip-flops at the buffet). So today’s issue is all about avoiding those classic newbie mistakes that can turn your relaxing vacation into a head-scratching “why didn’t anyone tell me?” situation. If this is your first time sailing—or even your second or third—this one’s for you.

🚨 Mistake #1: Booking a flight too close to embarkation
If I had a dollar for every horror story about delayed flights and missed ships… I’d be writing this from a suite with butler service.

The fix: Arrive in your departure city the day before your cruise. Always. Even if you’re only flying a short distance. Flights get delayed. Luggage gets lost. And cruise ships? They don’t wait. Spending one night in a hotel is a lot cheaper than missing the boat (literally) and having to play catch-up in the next port.

🧳 Mistake #2: Overpacking (or underpacking)
New cruisers either bring everything they own or assume they can “just buy stuff on the ship.” Nope. Yes, cruise cabins are small—but you do need a swimsuit, formal(ish) dinner attire, walking shoes, a light jacket, and yes, something to sleep in. And if you forget basics like sunscreen or motion sickness meds? Expect to pay cruise gift shop prices. (Spoiler: they’re not cheap.)

The fix: Use a solid cruise packing checklist (you can download mine here, btw). Stick to essentials, and leave the just-in-case outfits at home.

📱 Mistake #3: Not downloading the cruise line’s app
Every major cruise line now has an app—and it’s actually super helpful. You’ll often use it to: view the daily schedule, book shows and dining, check your onboard account, and message your travel group.

The fix: Download the app before you get on the ship. Once you’re on board, Wi-Fi can be tricky (or expensive), and the ship’s version of “free internet” is limited to their app only. Pro tip: also download any excursion confirmations and travel docs to your phone in advance, just in case you lose signal.

🍹 Mistake #4: Not knowing what’s included (and what isn’t)
This is a big one. Many first-timers assume cruises are “all-inclusive.” They’re not—at least not in the way resorts are. Drinks (yes, even sodas), specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, excursions, and tips often cost extra unless you’ve paid for a package.

The fix: Before you board, take a quick look at what’s covered in your fare—and what’s not. If your cruise line offers a drink or Wi-Fi package you’re interested in, buying it before your trip usually saves money compared to buying it onboard.

⏳ Mistake #5: Ignoring port day all-aboard times
This one is cruise 101: The ship will leave without you. It doesn’t matter if your excursion ran late, your lunch took too long, or your cab driver swore it would only take 10 minutes. Once the gangway closes, it’s closed.

The fix: Always, always pay attention to your port’s “all-aboard” time—usually 30 minutes before departure—and build in wiggle room. Better yet? Book excursions through the cruise line on days where time feels tight. That way, if anything runs behind, the ship will usually wait (or they’ll get you to the next port).

🛏️ Mistake #6: Picking a cabin without thinking it through
Not all cabins are created equal. First-timers often grab the cheapest option without realizing how different the experience can be. Inside cabins (no windows) can feel dark and tiny. Cabins near elevators or above nightclubs? Noisy. Cabins at the front of the ship? Motion-heavy.

The fix: Choose your cabin with purpose. Want quiet? Go midship and away from high-traffic areas. Prone to seasickness? Lower decks feel less movement. Want fresh air and ocean views? It might be worth upgrading to a balcony—or at least an oceanview.

📢 Mistake #7: Skipping the muster drill
No one likes the muster drill. It’s mandatory, it interrupts your first cocktail, and yes, it feels like overkill. But it’s not optional—and more importantly, it’s for your safety.

The fix: Cruise lines have made this process way easier post-COVID. You’ll usually watch a short video on the app or your stateroom TV and check in at your assigned muster station. It takes 5 minutes. Do it early and enjoy the rest of your day stress-free.

🤢 Mistake #8: Waiting to prepare for seasickness
Seasickness can sneak up on even experienced cruisers. One minute you’re sipping wine on the balcony, the next… you’re horizontal and regretting your life choices.

The fix: Bring motion sickness remedies just in case—even if you think you’ll be fine. Bonine, ginger chews, Dramamine, Sea-Bands… find what works before you’re halfway to Cozumel. And if you feel it coming on, get some fresh air and avoid reading or looking at your phone.

📅 Mistake #9: Trying to do everything
It’s tempting. The daily schedule is packed with trivia, karaoke, yoga, wine tastings, escape rooms, belly flop contests—and somehow three types of bingo. First-timers often overbook themselves and end up wiped out halfway through the cruise.

The fix: Pick a few must-dos each day, then let the rest go. Sometimes the best cruise moments are the ones where you do absolutely nothing… except sip something cold by the pool and watch the ocean go by.

Final thoughts: Cruising has a bit of a learning curve—but once you know what to expect (and what not to do), it’s one of the most fun, low-stress ways to travel. So whether you’re about to board your first ship or just want to avoid some classic blunders, I hope this issue helps you feel a little more confident and a lot more excited. And hey—if you’ve made one of these mistakes before, no judgment. We've all been there. (I once packed six pairs of shoes for a 4-night cruise. Spoiler: I wore two.)
More smart cruise tips coming your way next week.

Until then,

Tara