A cruise offers you ample leisure time to explore the ship’s entertainment, relax by the pool or slip into the spa and take once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions. 2012 was a record year for cruising, with 20.3 million passengers recorded, according to the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association. High cruising numbers mean more competition for premium activities, so plan ahead to make the most from your cruise.
Making the Most of Your Cruise
If you want to reserve your space on the rainforest zipline or swimming with dolphins, planning ahead is essential. Tackle these items one to two months before you cruise:
- Review any shore excursions offered. If you definitely want to participate in any of them, sign up beforehand to avoid disappointment if the excursion is sold out.
- Make any firm commitments for off-cruise entertainment. While you will definitely have plenty of options on board, if there are particular things you want to do in any port of call, research the destination so you know what your options are and plan ahead.
- Review the meals and beverage packages – It can be cheaper to purchase a dining or drinking package than to pay a la carte. Before you sail away, review and purchase a package that meets your needs, recommends Cruise Critic.
- See whether your cruise line offers any pre-cruise meet and mingle parties for area residents who may be on your cruise. Whether you’re taking a romantic cruise for two or a girls’ getaway with your 10 best gal pals, it can be nice to connect with other folks on board.
- Make any pre- or post-cruise reservations. Chances are, you’re flying to the cruise’s takeoff point. Book airfare, a hotel, a rental car or any other amenities for your pre-cruise and post-cruise excursion in advance to save.
To-Do Before You Cruise
While picking out your shore excursions can get you enthusiasm up, household to-do items aren’t all that fun and you may be tempted to procrastinate. Still, taking care of keeping your home safe while you are gone is essential any time you travel. For peace of mind while you are away, you may want to look into home safety systems. According to Lifeshield.com, one burglary occurs every 14.6 seconds in the United States and only 21 percent of that stolen property is ever recovered by law enforcement. Coming home from a vacation to find that you suffered a robbery can be devastating.
Make sure to check these items off your to-do list one to two weeks before you leave:
- Tell your bank and credit card that you will be traveling
- Hold your mail
- Ask a neighbor to water your plants and keep an eye on your house
- Find a pet-sitter
- Arrange for an international phone plan if you hope to touch base during your ports of call
- Put the lights on a timer so it will look like someone is home
- Photocopy any important documents, such as your passport and driver’s license
- Purchase any specialty items that you need for your cruise, such as hiking boots
- Ensure that you have enough prescription medication and first aid supplies to last your cruise. While you may be able to purchase some of these items on board, it will cost more.
