princess cruise embarkation day

27 cruise ship embarkation day do’s and don’ts

You've planned your cruise, and now it's embarkation day. You can't wait to get on board your ship and relax, sip a tropical drink and stare out to sea. You're on vacation – woohoo!

Not so fast. You might be ready to cruise, but the ship's crew still is getting the ship ready, having just disembarked last week's passengers.

You must go through the ship's pier-side check-in process, which can take time. Remember, you are one of thousands of people entering a floating city at basically the same time. As with any other secured structure, you can't walk right onto a ship.

The best way to start your cruise is to arrive at the pier expecting some lines and minor hassles — and perhaps a bit of chaos — and then be thrilled if you don't encounter any of them. Keep a level head and look forward to good times once your sailing gets underway.

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Here are some dos and don'ts to help make embarkation day as hassle-free as possible.

DO check that you have the necessary paperwork and documentation

The cruise line will send pre-cruise reminders explaining what to expect at check-in, including health and safety procedures. It will outline which documents, IDs, QR codes or other electronic receipts you must have ready.

However, it's your responsibility to arrive at the pier with the proper documentation. I like to print out and bring paper copies of documents as a backup to electronic documents.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

DON'T arrive at the pier early

Many cruise lines assign passengers a staggered time to arrive at the pier. Arrive early, and you'll just have to wait — often, outside in the hot sun, without access to water, restrooms or other necessities. Arrive at the pier as close as you can to your scheduled time, but don't freak out if you are a few minutes late. You won't be turned away.

DO hand over your big suitcases

As soon as you arrive at the pier, porters will be available to take your large suitcases, which will be delivered later to your cabin. (Dock workers expect a small tip for the service.) Without your luggage, you'll have your hands free for the rest of the embarkation process. Make sure your suitcase is tagged with your name and cabin number, ship name and sail date.

DON'T relinquish your carry-on bag

In your cruise carry-on , pack your medications, valuables, documents and anything else you will need until your luggage arrives in your cabin. Since you're likely leaving from a sunny destination, you also might want to have a sun hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. If you've come from a cold-weather place, pack shorts, flip-flops and your bathing suit so you don't have to wait for your suitcases to arrive before you hit the pool.

DO be prepared to go through security

Once you prove (through your paperwork or electronically) that you belong on the ship, you will go through security. The setup is similar to an airport. You put your belongings on a screening belt and walk through a metal detector. You won't have to take off your shoes but will have to remove belts and bulky jewelry and clear your pockets.

DON'T try to sneak any banned items onto the ship

Your carry-on items will be inspected via an X-ray machine at the security checkpoint, and your checked bags might be searched before they're delivered to you. While most cruise lines allow passengers to bring a small amount of alcohol, soda and bottled water for consumption in their cabin, make sure you have not gone over the cruise line's allowance for bringing your own beverages on board .

Cruise lines have specific rules for other banned items, which you can find on your line's website. These items will include weapons, fireworks, flammable liquids, candles, clothing irons, incense and anything else that produces a flame. Royal Caribbean also bans martial arts gear, baby monitors and extension cords, among other items. Carnival bans handcuffs.

DO freshen up

After your flight or drive to the port, you will want to freshen up because the fun begins at the embarkation pier. You'll find both official and unofficial photo spots at the terminal. Smile for the shipboard photographers, who will have a backdrop with the ship's name or picture set up, or take your own photos.

DO pause and look up as you enter the ship's atrium

Some ship atriums are impressively high or have cool artwork or chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. You've arrived at your floating home for the week. It's OK to stand in awe.

DON'T expect to be able to go right to your cabin

Depending on when you arrive, cabins might not be ready, as the crew needs to clean and straighten them after the previous guests have left. It's best to stay out of the way of the cabin stewards and instead find a place for you (and your carry-on luggage) to hang out until the ship announces all cabins are ready.

DON'T follow the crowds to the buffet

As the boarding process begins around noon and continues well into the afternoon, many people arrive hungry. Crew members often direct passengers to the buffet — but experienced cruisers know there are other, often less crowded, options.

On Carnival Cruise Line ships, go directly to celebrity chef Guy Fieri's poolside Guy's Burger Joint and indulge in a decadent burger or fries. If you're on one of the newer or recently updated Carnival ships, there's also the embarkation day treat of Fieri's pork butt, chicken and Mac Daddy Mac n Cheese served on the promenade (or Deck 10 on Carnival Sunrise).

Royal Caribbean fans in the know make a beeline to the Park Café for Royal Kümmelweck roast beef sandwiches, an embarkation day rite of passage. A main dining room with waiter service and specialty for-a-fee restaurants also might be alternatives for an embarkation day lunch.

DO head to your cabin when it's ready

Your big bags might not have arrived at this point, but you can drop your carry-ons and take a look to see that everything is to your satisfaction. Your cabin steward likely will stop by to say hello. This is a good time to ask how the air-conditioning, TV and safe work and to ask for any extras you might need, such as more towels, pillows and hangers, or to have the bed split from a queen into two twins. The steward will also let you know how to keep in touch if you need anything extra throughout your cruise.

DO read the safety instructions and check life jackets

Safety instructions will be posted on the back of your cabin door. Look there for the number of your assigned muster station in the event of a shipboard emergency. You'll find life jackets in your closet or elsewhere in the cabin. If you are traveling with kids, now is the time to make sure there is an appropriate infant or child life jacket in addition to a life jacket for each adult. If there isn't, alert your cabin steward.

DO watch the safety video

It used to be that everyone on a cruise ship was required to gather on embarkation day at their assigned muster station, listen to a safety briefing and be checked off a list as having been briefed. As a result of COVID-19, and a desire to keep crowds at a minimum, many cruise lines have moved to e-muster drills.

You are required to watch a video on your cabin TV or cruise line app that tells you what to do in the event of a fire or other shipboard emergency. Your smart TV or app will record that you have watched the video. You may also be required to check in with a crew member at your assigned muster. Those who skip this step will hear their cabin numbers called out over the PA system, which can be embarrassing.

DO make sure the kids understand the safety procedures

Eyes might roll, but now is the time to talk to the kids about the danger of climbing on any railings or standing on balcony furniture. Remind them that other people on the ship are strangers and that they should use the same caution they would at home. Establish rules for how much freedom children are allowed to have on board, where to leave messages for each other and how to reconnect if you get split up on the ship.

DO go out to explore the ship

You'll have time to see a lot during your cruise, but at this point I like to get the lay of the land. You might find a ship deck plan (map) in your cabin, or one might be available at the purser's desk or in the cruise line's app. It's fun to find not only the main spaces but also the hidden pools, hot tubs and other treasures you'll want to return to throughout your sailing. It's fun to do the exploring as a family.

DO sign the kids up for cruise ship camp

While you're exploring, stop by the kids' centers and sign the kids up for the onboard kids program. Staff will be on hand to welcome your progeny and show them around the play spaces and hangouts available just for them. Your kids might need to get bracelets marked with their muster station in case of emergency.

Related: Best cruise ships for kids

DO stop by the spa and fitness center

If you plan to do spa treatments or have hair and other beauty appointments during your cruise, now is the time to book them (if you haven't booked them in advance). Take the spa tour and sign up for the raffle — you could win a free treatment.

If you like what you see in the soothing thermal suite — which typically has hot and cold treatments — sign up now as spaces often sell out. Put your name on signup sheets for fitness classes, as these also fill up quickly.

DO take time to veg out

You don't need to do everything your first day, so if you spot a perfect spot in the sun or shade, rest your weary bones. Fun times are ahead; a little cat nap might be in order.

DON'T assume drinks are free

As you wander, especially out on deck, smiling crew members will be carrying trays of tempting and colorful icy drinks, maybe even decorated with sweet little umbrellas. Go ahead and grab one if you want — just understand you will be charged for the welcome drink.

DO watch your alcohol consumption

We get it, you bought a drinks package (in which case the above drink is included), and you want to make the most of it. But do you really want your first day on board to result in an unpleasant morning after? Better to pace yourself and drink lots of water between adult beverages.

DO take time to unpack

Once you've got the lay of the land, you probably want to unpack and get ready for your first evening on board. Don't put your luggage directly on your bed's duvet; use the luggage mat provided. Find a spot for everything because cruise cabins can quickly become cluttered. When you're finished, stow your suitcases under your bed.

DO call if your luggage hasn't arrived

It takes time to deliver thousands of suitcases to thousands of cabins. But if it's getting close to the time your ship is set to leave the pier and your suitcases have not arrived, alert your cabin steward. (If you've had a last-minute cabin change, look for your luggage by your original room.)

DO take your seasickness tablets

If you are prone to seasickness , plan to take your first pills a couple of hours before the ship is scheduled to leave the pier. They need time to kick in.

DO turn off your cellphone

To avoid costly roaming charges, you will want to keep your cellphone on airplane mode. To keep in touch with those at home and brag about your trip on social media, consider buying a shipboard Wi-Fi package . Crew members will be on hand on the first day to help you log in and connect.

DON'T forget to figure out dinner

Perhaps you plan to head to the main dining room the first evening or want to go casual at the buffet. Consider the option of specialty dining . These intimate, for-a-fee restaurants can be hard to get into (reservations are required) but are usually not as crowded on the first night of the sailing. Plus, some lines will thank you with a complimentary or discounted bottle of wine.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

DO check out the daily program

You'll find a list of all the daily activities printed out in your cabin, on your cabin TV or on the shipboard app. Take a look and see what's in store for your first evening aboard.

DON'T miss the sailaway party

This is the first big activity of your cruise and not to be missed. These parties are about music, laughter and the opportunity to check out the crowd you'll be with for the week. Plus, watching the land disappear as your ship heads to sea is a dreamy experience. You're off to new horizons. Grab a drink and toast the official start of your cruise vacation.

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• Princess Cruises eliminates scheduled arrival times on...

Princess Cruises eliminates scheduled arrival times on embarkation day

Princess Cruises will implement a new and improved ship boarding process starting on August 1st, 2023. It is aimed at making it easier for tourists to board their ships. As part of this new system, scheduled arrival times on embarkation day will be eliminated.

Princess is simplifying the Green, Blue, and Accessibility Lane designations for passengers who complete the necessary steps using the Princess App before their voyage.

Here are the main highlights of Princess Cruises' upcoming embarkation system, which will be implemented in a few weeks:

Green Lane - Guests who have completed all the steps on the Travel Checklist and have received their Medallion(s) by mail (available only in the U.S. and Puerto Rico) will qualify for the Green Lane. This lane provides the most streamlined embarkation process, allowing guests to board the ship faster.

Please note that guests who were eligible for the Green Lane but chose not to have their Medallion(s) shipped to them will now be classified as Blue Lane for cruises departing after August 1st, 2023.

Blue Lane - Guests who have completed some, none, or all of the Travel Checklist but have opted not to have their Medallion(s) shipped to them can still enjoy an expedited check-in process, but they will need to pick up their Medallion(s) at the cruise terminal.

Accessibility Lane - Guests with mobility or other accessibility needs will always have a dedicated lane available to them for a more streamlined check-in process, regardless of their OceanReady color designation.

No more scheduled arrival times - Guests are no longer required to select a specific arrival group time with these new enhancements. Instead, they can arrive within the designated check-in window at a time that suits them. However, the cruise line strongly encourages guests to provide their travel arrangement information via OceanReady. The check-in window details can be found in their travel summary.

Updated Digital Boarding Pass - Princess Cruises is also improving the boarding pass, which will be available in the Princess app 11 days before the sailing date. The updated boarding pass will now include important guest information such as the deck and stateroom number. The Arrival Group designation will no longer be included, as mentioned above.

Post-Cruise FAQ: Disembarkation

An overview of some important information to help make your disembarkation as easy as possible., more frequently asked questions, pre-cruise faq.

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How to Have the Best Embarkation Day on a Cruise

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: July 15, 2020  - Last updated: July 6, 2023

If you’re a first-time cruiser, you might be wondering what is embarkation day on a cruise? Embarkation day is a cruising term meaning the day you get on board the ship. It’s a super-busy day for both passengers and crew, and it can be a lot of fun!

Embarkation day doesn’t have to be stressful. You’ve been looking forward to your cruise for a while now, right? You deserve to relax! With these tips and a little planning, you can get your vacation started off right.

You’ll arrive at the cruise terminal, drop your bags and then proceed to the check-in desk before boarding the ship. Once you’re on board, you’ll have so many opportunities for fun (or for lounging and doing nothing) before the ship leaves port.

But, there are a few things you’ll need to do to make sure your day (and the rest of the cruise) goes smoothly. Here’s how to make sure you have the best embarkation day on your cruise.

Disclaimer: I may receive a small commission when you make a purchase from a link on this site, at no added charge to you. For more info, please read my  Disclosure Policy .

Have all your documents ready

You’ll need to check in online at least a couple of days before your cruise to print your boarding documents and luggage tags. Don’t leave this until the morning of your cruise, because access to the online portal will shut down when the ship files its passenger manifest.

Be sure you have your documents printed and in an easy spot to access. I put mine in a small folder in my carry on bag, along with my passport and any tickets and receipts for the cruise. This makes check-in a breeze, because everything is in one place.

Tip: Have a couple of pens in your purse or carry on bag for embarkation day. Some cruise lines still use paper health questionnaires, and there are never enough pens to go around!

Make reservations before your cruise

When you’re on vacation, the last thing you want to do is waste your time standing in long lines. Same goes with being stuck on a long phone call to the shore excursions desk to make a reservation when you just want to enjoy your cruise.

If you want to book shore excursions for your port days, specialty dining, or spa reservations, take care of these before you leave home. You usually don’t need to wait until you’re on the ship to make reservations!

Most major cruise lines allow you to make some reservations online or over the phone before your cruise. In the event that you have to wait until you board to book something you really want to do, be sure to do it as soon as you can on embarkation day. Popular specialty restaurants and activities can fill up quickly.

Tip: Want to know what I do before every cruise to save time, money, and aggravation? Read my 37 Cruise Tips: What to Do Before Your Cruise

Get to the port city a day early

My number-one tip for cruisers is always to get to the city that your cruise is leaving from a day early. If you’re flying or have a long drive ahead of you, it really makes sense to get to the area at least the day before embarkation day.

Flights are often delayed or canceled. Or, an unexpected traffic jam on the highway can cause your journey to take significantly longer than you planned.

Play it safe and plan to arrive early, so you won’t have any unnecessary stress on the day your cruise leaves. Plus, adding an extra day to your vacation will give you time to explore the port city!

Tip: Don’t skip buying travel insurance for your cruise that covers travel delays and cancellations.

Pack an embarkation day bag

Packing a lightweight cruise carry on bag is a must for embarkation day. Just don’t fill it up too much! Remember, you’ll probably have to carry it around for a few hours until your room is ready, so you won’t want something heavy or bulky.

I like to throw in all the necessities I’ll need on day one, like sunscreen, a swimsuit and a swim coverup . I also make sure that any valuables like jewelry and electronics go in the bag, along with any medications I’ll need access to before our luggage is delivered to the stateroom. It can take several hours for your luggage to arrive, so don’t leave things you’ll need in your suitcases.

The shops on board the ship won’t be open until you sail into international waters, so think carefully about what you’ll want to have with you on that first day.

Tip: If you want to learn more about what should go in your embarkation day bag, my article What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry On Bag explains it all. I’ll even send you a free printable PDF to make packing super-easy!

Don’t get to the cruise terminal too early (or too late)

Unless I’m doing some last-minute sightseeing in port, I like to get to the ship as early as I can to get my cruise started ASAP! But getting there too early often means you’ll be doing a lot of waiting around.

Many cruise lines will give you a window of time that they recommend you show up at the terminal for your cruise. In my experience, they’re often very lenient with cruisers arriving a little early—to a certain extent.

Embarkation day for you is also disembarkation day for the last group of passengers. This means that passengers will still be getting off the ship that morning. Plus, the cruise ship needs to be cleared by the port authorities before new passengers are allowed to embark.

If you get to the port too early (like 10 or 11 AM), you’ll probably have to wait for some time at the terminal before you’ll be allowed to board. Unless you have priority boarding, it’s a good idea to wait until about midday to get to the cruise terminal.

Whatever you do, don’t show up late on embarkation day. If you don’t get on the ship by all-aboard, it can (and will) leave without you. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the cruise terminal in case you run into any delays.

Tip: If you’re sailing on Carnival, you can buy a Faster to the Fun pass to skip those long embarkation day lines.

Drop your suitcases with a porter

Unless you feel like dragging your bulky suitcases around for the first few hours, drop your suitcases with a porter before you enter the cruise terminal.

Porters will usually come right up to your vehicle as you’re unloading your bags. So, it’s a good idea to attach your luggage tags to your bags before you leave for the terminal. You can staple the paper tags around your suitcase handles, but I prefer attaching them with waterproof luggage tag holders so they won’t fall off.

Be sure to tip your porters! They’re not employees of the cruise line, so they don’t receive any of the automatic gratuities that you pay. A dollar or two per bag is fine, based on the size and weight of your luggage.

Ship’s crew will deliver your bags to your room several hours after you drop them with the porter. (They usually leave them in the hallway outside your door, so don’t pack any valuables in your checked luggage).

Enjoy a relaxing lunch

If you can, avoid the buffet for lunch on embarkation day! Many newer cruisers don’t realize that there are other options for lunch, so the buffet is always super-busy. Add in the fact that most people are dragging their carry-ons around with them at lunchtime, and you’ll see why it’s much more relaxing to eat somewhere else.

Many cruise lines have at least one other dining venue open for lunch service. Some ships will have a main dining room open, while others offer quick-service options.

Check your daily planner to find out which venues are open for lunch on embarkation day.

Tip: If you’re planning your first cruise, my article What New Cruisers Don’t Know About Cruise Food & Drinks will get you up to speed with dining on board.

Find your room and meet your steward

Sometime in the midafternoon, your stateroom will be ready to access. Your room steward will often be eager to meet you, so expect a knock on your door while you’re getting to know your new home away from home on your cruise.

This is a great time to let your steward know if there’s anything you need, like extra hangers, a bathrobe, or a bucket of ice. Your steward can also push the beds together or pull them apart if you forgot to request this previously (or if they made a mistake and set them up wrong).

If you have guests in your stateroom who’ll be sleeping on a pull-out sofa or a pullman bed, let your steward know what time you want them to make up the bed. I like to have them do it while we’re at dinner (we tend to eat late), so the bed isn’t taking up too much room as we’re getting ready.

Read your daily newsletter or planner

There’s so much to do on a cruise ship—it can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan! On some cruise lines you’ll get a newsletter in your room that tells you everything you’ll need to know for the following day. But on embarkation day, your newsletter should be in your stateroom with all the info for that day, plus an overview of all the fun you can expect on your vacation!

Recently, many cruise lines have suspended delivery of the paper daily planner. You can now find the planner right on the cruise line’s smartphone app, or head to guest services to pick up a paper copy.

Be sure to take a minute or two to read it over, so you can plan what activities you’d like to do that day. Be on the lookout for any specials they’re offering for embarkation day. You’ll often see discounts for specialty dining that are only available if you make a reservation for that evening.

Also look for specials at the spa. Some cruise ship spas will offer first day discounts and drawings for free services if you attend their embarkation day open house.

The planner will also tell you what time each of the dining venues and bars will be open that day.

Tip: Download your cruise line’s app before you sail—when you have internet access at home or at your hotel. You can use the app on the ship without Wi-Fi, but you won’t be able to download it without a connection.

Check what you need to do for muster drill

You won’t have many responsibilities once you step on board your cruise ship. But on embarkation day, you’ll have just one: muster drill.

Muster drill is a mandatory safety briefing that all passengers need to attend. On most cruise lines today, the briefing consists of a safety video you can watch on the app or your stateroom TV followed by a short, in-person demonstration at your assigned muster station.

Muster stations are assigned by your stateroom location. Your muster group is usually printed on your cruise card, and also on the back of your stateroom door. If you’re not sure where to go, just ask any crew member.

Some cruise lines still have muster drill for all passengers at the same time. It’s usually in the midafternoon, and restaurants and bars will temporarily close during this time. Your newsletter will list the muster drill time—don’t be late!

If you miss muster drill for some reason, there will be a mandatory makeup session, usually the next morning. The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) requires that all passengers attend the safety briefing (even kids and babies) within 24 hours of sailing.

Missing the makeup drill usually means that you’ll be involuntarily disembarked at the next port, and you’ll have to find your own way home. Not fun!

Visit the kids’ club

If you’re cruising with your kids or grandkids, you’ll want to visit the kids’ club that’s available on most major cruise lines. Check your newsletter to see what time the club will be open for open house or to register your kids for the rest of the cruise.

Older teens might not be too thrilled about a kids’ club, but encourage them to visit on embarkation day to meet other teens. Even if they never go back to the club, it’s an easy way to meet new friends their own age at the beginning of the cruise.

You may also like: Cruising with Kids: 19 Essential Tips

Explore the ship

Especially if you’re cruising on a mega-ship, it will take some time for you to get to know everything the ship has to offer. I like to take an hour or so to just explore the ship on embarkation day.

While you’re exploring, keep an eye out for venues you’d like to return to during your voyage. I always make sure to look for quiet places to relax, lounges with comfy seating, and of course where I can get my specialty coffees!

I also like to find the restaurants, theater, and quieter pools just so I know where they are for later on. On many large cruise ships, you can only access certain locations from a particular set of stairs or elevators. Finding out these little quirks is always part of the fun on embarkation day.

Tip: You’ll sometimes get a small map of the ship when you check in, and there are also maps posted around the ship, usually near the elevator banks. If you’re lost, don’t be afraid to ask a crew member – getting from point A to point B can be confusing on your first day!

Unpack your suitcases

Unpacking your suitcases doesn’t sound like a fun thing to do on embarkation day, but you’ll thank yourself later if you take care of it early.

Getting everything stowed will make a small cabin feel so much roomier. Even small staterooms have ample closet, drawer, and shelf space for you to organize your clothes and toiletries.

I like to use packing cubes for smaller items. I just take the cubes out of my suitcase and put them in a drawer. So easy and quick!

If you hang your dressier clothes right away, they’ll have fewer wrinkles when you need to wear them. Plus, you can just stow your empty suitcases under the bed to make it easier to walk around (and easier for your steward to clean your room).

Tip: If you’re worried about how to keep your clothes looking pressed, How to Prevent Wrinkled Clothes on a Cruise has all my best tips and hacks.

Find a spot to enjoy sailaway

If you followed my tip to spend an hour or so just exploring the ship, I bet you spotted some perfect places for enjoying sailaway. Leaving port on embarkation day is always a festive event!

If you want to be right in the action, the Lido deck near the main pool is always exciting. That’s usually where the sailaway party is, and it’s always the busiest spot when the ship leaves. Partygoers can grab a drink from the pool bar and enjoy live music and dancing in the sunshine.

But if you’d rather find a quieter location to watch as the ship heads out to sea, you’ll have tons of options. Some cruisers enjoy finding a comfy chair by the window in the library. Others prefer finding a small bar in an out-of-the-way location to have a celebratory cocktail away from the crowds. Have a balcony stateroom? Sailaway is a great opportunity to relax and enjoy your own private space.

Happy cruising!

You may also like: What Should You Wear on Embarkation Day on a Cruise?

What are your favorite tips for embarkation day on a cruise? Let me know in the comments below!

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Jenn | By Land and Sea

Sunday 13th of February 2022

Cruise embarkation day is always so much fun! Thanks for the great tips to have things run smoothly

Monday 14th of February 2022

Hi Jenn, isn't embarkation day always so exciting? I love exploring a new ship and the fun of the sailaway party!

I have never been on a Cruise so this is great info on what the first day would be like!

Hi April, thanks for reading! I hope my embarkation day tips are helpful on your first cruise :D

Awesome list of tips for embarkation day! My favourite is unpack early. I love to get all that type of stuff out of the way quickly so I can focus on the fun!

Hi Bea, I like how you think! I always force myself to unpack early so I can relax and have fun too :)

Saturday 12th of February 2022

I wish I didn't get seasick because cruises always look so fun. Great tips in this post! Some of these are good tips for hotel stays as well.

Hi Fern, seasickness is the worst! I've cruised with lots of people who tend to get seasick, and I wrote an article with all the best tips I've collected: How to Avoid Getting Seasick on a Cruise Check it out!

Great tips for how to enjoy embarkation day - I didn't know about muster drill! Hope I get to use these tips on a cruise soon.

Hi Jenn, I hope you get to use them on a cruise soon, too! Thanks for reading:)

• SOUTH DAKOTA

Princess cruise activities 2023 daily schedule + Princess Patter + onboard entertainment + journeyview on the app

Every Princess cruise has onboard activities led by the entertainment team of each cruise ship.

Below will show you an example of an entertainment schedule of onboard activities on a Princess cruise!

Of course, your cruise may (will!) vary, but this is just to give you an idea of what kinds of things you can expect, what time you may be able to expect certain activities, and more!

Onboard activities offered on sea days will be different from port days.

Because you will be on a cruise ship all day long, sea days will have more activities throughout the day!

Because most people tend to get off the cruise ship on port days, there will be less activities offered while the cruise ship is in port.

But as soon as the cruise ship has started sailing, you can expect entertainment activities to get started!

You can stay on the cruise ship during port days if you want. It’s not required to get off.

The daily schedule of cruise activities

When you are on a Princess cruise ship, you will get a daily activities schedule every day.

On the first day of the cruise, it will be in your cabin when you arrive.

More of inside a Princess cruise ship cabin: cruise ship bathroom

For the rest of the days of the cruise, a paper version of the schedule will be delivered to you every evening by your stateroom steward (aka housekeeping person).

This daily activities schedule used to officially be called the Princess Patter, although nowadays it’s simply a schedule of “Princess event listings.”

Also on the daily schedule of cruise activities you will find the hours of things around the ship.

The hours of certain things may change based on whether the cruise ship is at sea or in port.

The hours are on the back of the Princess Patter.

More about a Princess cruise:

• Princess cruise food in the dining room
• Princess cruise wifi

Journeyview on the Princess app

Another way you can see what’s going on around the cruise ship is by using your Princess app.

The Princess app can be useful for a number of things, and one of those things is to see the onboard activities schedule!

On the Princess app, the onboard cruise activities will be under “journeyview.”

You may be able to start to see this before you even get on the cruise ship.

While you can look at it before you get on the cruise ship to start to give you an idea, it’s very likely that what you see before you get on the cruise ship in journeyview is not completely updated.

So just keep that in mind.

And if you don’t see something listed that you believe is an activity during every cruise, it could just be that it hasn’t been added yet.

The cruise activities can change even during the cruise, so you can expect that it’s very possible that it can change if you’re looking at it before the cruise.

Bookmarking activities on the Princess app

If you are starting to see cruise activities listed in journeyview, you may notice that it appears that events are “filling up.”

It’s possible to “bookmark” an activity.

But that is all it is.

It is a “bookmark” for your reference.

An event that appears to be filling up just means that many people have shown interest in the activity and have bookmarked it.

It does not mean people are making reservations.

That is not how you make a reservation for any of the activities.

And in fact, you don’t need to make a reservation to attend most activities on a cruise ship.

There may be very special circumstances in which you do need to do something in advance for very special activities, but this is not normal.

In general, even if you see on the Princess app that an event is “full,” you can still show up.

Likewise, you do not need to bookmark an event in order to show up to an activity.

More below for the day-by-day schedule of cruise activities of one Princess cruise ship!

• cruise luggage tag holders
• basic binoculars for wildlife watching

Onboard cruise activities on a Princess cruise ship

This is the Princess Patter from 3 days of a 7-day cruise in May 2023.

There’s embarkation day, a sea day, and a port day.

No 2 cruises will be the same!

While your cruise will be different, you can also make note of the hours in port and hours or various activities around the cruise ship.

Day 1: Embarkation day

See more about what an embarkation day is like:

• Embarkation day in Vancouver

Day 2: Sea day (formal night)

On most cruises, the first formal night will be on the first sea day.

On a 7-day cruise there will usually be 2 formal nights.

Day 3: Port day (6:30am to 2pm)

And those are some cruise activities you may find on a Princess cruise ship!

As of summer 2023, I have spent 43 days on Princess cruise ships this year.

All of the above is based on my experience and understanding! Your experience may vary! Your understanding may vary!

HAPPY DOING PRINCESS CRUISE ACTIVITIES!

• Dinner menu
• Breakfast menu
• Desserts menu
• Breakfast room service
• Premium desserts
• How to find your boarding time for a Princess cruise
• How to print Princess cruise luggage tags
• What is the first day of the cruise like: Embarkation day
• What is the day you get off the cruise ship like: Disembarkation day
• Sample daily activity schedule on a cruise ship: Princess cruise activities (princess patter)
• What to watch on your stateroom TV (really!)
• Princess cruise fitness classes (free with Princess package)
• Princess cruise group sports (+ more group activities)
• What happens when a port is canceled during a cruise?
• Inside a cruise ship bathroom
• Alaska cruise with time zone change
• Princess naturalist talks
• puppies in the piazza

Princess Cruises: 15 Tips, Tricks and Insider Secrets

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Princess Cruises Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

If you’re going on a Princess cruise, here are some cruise tips you should know before you cruise. 

The reality is, that although you can read a lot of general cruise tips , every cruise line is unique and has different amenities and offerings. 

For this reason, this article focuses on features found on Princess Cruises ; with Princess cruise tips, hacks and insider “secrets” you really want to know!

• How to get discounts on your cruise booking
• Hacks to get extra onboard credits
• Princess Cruises dining “secrets” and specialties
• Princess Cruises drink packages
• Cruise cabin information
• Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion
• A shore excursion tip that will surprise you
• and more…

Please know that this is not “official” Princess information, so always verify with the cruise line web site for current information, as well as any specifics related to your cruise booking.

Recommended first-time cruiser posts (for general info):

15 Epic Tips First Time Cruisers Need to Know

25 Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise

10 Ways to Prevent and Avoid Seasickness on a Cruise

Things to know about cruising with Princess (that are pretty amazing)

We’ve cruised on Princess several times, and cruise on other lines as well. However, there are some things we genuinely love about our Princess Cruises.

Princess is a really good cruise line that seems to have something for everyone. We’ve done a few family cruises, couples only cruises, and even one large family cruise – I highly recommend Princess for multi-generational travel .

Firstly, some cruise advice that will pretty much guarantee that you’ll find out all the important stuff

1. Read your Princess Patter (daily planner) or check the daily schedule and activity guide on your Ocean Medallion or Princess Cruises App . The various activities, restaurants and specialty food venues will all be written in the planner. Check the back as well, as sometime the info is there.

2. Just Ask.  When you aren’t sure, just ask your fellow cruise passengers or the staff on board. They’ll be happy to share their knowledge and steer you in the right direction.

3. Go to the first time cruisers information sessions. On many cruise ships, there will be Ocean Medallion and even cruise port talks. These information sessions can be super helpful in answering questions you didn’t even know you had. When are they? Check your Princess Patter 😉

Read more:  12 Top Reasons to Cruise with Princess Cruises

Princess First-time Cruiser Tips

Before we begin, I will let you know – you may want to grab a pen and paper, print out, or better yet, save on your favorite Pinterest board for later :-). If you find this helpful, please share.

1. Princess Cruise Cabins

While Princess cabins aren’t the largest we’ve ever seen, they have something we just love! Princess Cruises staterooms have amazing large open closets. From inside cabins to balcony staterooms, the cruise cabins have a sort of separator wall between the sleeping area and closet and washroom area.

While these cabins don’t have large sofa chairs or couches in them, for this you’ll need to move up to a mini-suite, this large open space as you enter your cabin is really practical.

There are even a couple of full size mirrors. In our family, it served as a bit of “private” dressing area, right outside the washroom.

Whether you’re an over-packer like me or not, this extra large hanging space, along with a few shelves. Even though I still love some good cruise cabin hacks , this just makes it easier on everyone.

2. Princess Cruises Dining Options

Princess has some of the best dining options at sea. There’s literally so much available and included .

Recently, I saw a fun Facebook thread, asking Princess Cruisers to name their first-time cruiser lessons or mistakes. One common first cruise “mistake” was how many people didn’t realize that most of the food on-board the ship was actually included.

We had friends who cruised several years ago, and they recounted the story and lesson from their first cruise. It seemed that they ate each breakfast, lunch and dinner in the buffet. There’s nothing wrong with eating in the buffet, but it wasn’t until the last night of their cruise, that they realized that dinner in the dining room was actually included!

Here is a list of Princess restaurants and food venues that are included (no extra fees)

• Main Dining Room (Traditional and Anytime Dining)
• International Cafe – This is literally open almost all the time and offers breakfast, lunch (even salads), snack and dessert options
• Poolside Grill – Outdoors near the pool there is a grill with burgers, hot dogs, chicken burgers, french fries and more (fries at 4 pm are too good!)
• Poolside Pizza – Princess has some of the best pizza at sea (possibly THE best)
• Horizon Court Buffet – the buffet has quite a lot available from morning to night
• Alfredo’s Pizzeria – while not available on every ship, Alfredo’s is a casual sit down Italian venue open for lunch and dinner and there’s no extra charge.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria Tip

If you’re cruising on Regal or Royal Princess (or another ship with an Alfredo’s restaurant), consider having your lunch here on embarkation day , while your fellow cruisers still don’t realize it’s included. The buffet will be busy that first day, so avoid it if you can.

I put together this review with pictures and the menus , so you could get an idea of what to expect.

On top of this there’s ice cream and popcorn on the pool deck. My best for any ship, is to explore as much as possible, and discover all it has to offer.

Alfredo’s Pizzeria (review and menus):   Princess Cruises Alfredo’s Pizzeria; the Best Pizza at Sea (link to article)

3.What food isn’t included?

Specialty restaurants such as Sabatini’s, Crown Grill and Crab Shack have an additional charge. If you’d like to have a more intimate or special meal, you may really enjoy this.

Other food items that aren’t included are the gelato shops in the Piazza (Princess Atrium) and a few odd items like chocolate covered strawberries. There is a fairly small charge if you enjoy them.

4. Are drinks and coffee included?

With cruise lines promoting beverage packages, it can be hard to know what drinks are included, and which are not.

There are additional charges for alcoholic drinks, soda or pop, water bottles and some juices. There’s also an extra charge for specialty coffee and tea.

While “regular” coffee and tea is available in the buffet and in the Main Dining Room, freshly brewed coffee, specialty coffee and premium teas are additional. 

Consider purchasing a coffee package at International Cafe, which is an excellent value.

Alcohol and non-alcohol/soda packages can also be purchased as well.

Here’s an extensive guide to the Princess Cruises Drink Packages , that I’ve recently put together. I’ve included bar menus and drink photos as a resource, so do check it out:

  Princess Cruises Drink Packages (with bar menus and drink photos)

Tip: You can bring a bottle of wine per adult in the cabin. A corkage fee of $15 may be applied if you drink it in a public area.

5. Bonus for Foodies: Princess Fan Favorite Foods

There are some foods that frequent Princess cruisers just love – they are really kind of fan favorites. So, if you’re cruising with Princess for the first time, and you love cruise food, you might want to know this.

Poolside pizza – It’s really good, and was even voted best at Sea by USA today. More importantly, regular cruisers rave about it, so give it a try.

Fettuccine  Alfredo – In my opinion, this dish which is served in the main dining room as a full meal or appetizer, was actually much better when it was served in a parmesan cheese bowl, but it’s still really good and definitely a favorite.

Nutella Donuts – Look out for these in the International Cafe, as they are not available every day. They are so good they’re almost sinful.

Chocolate Journey’s desserts – Most chocolate desserts on Princess are really good. If you see one of these on the dessert menu in the dining room or at the International Cafe, they are worth the calories.

Princess Cruises Love Boat Dream – While this isn’t my personal favorite, it’s certainly popular and perhaps the most romantic dessert on the menu. Shaped in a heart and made of chocolate cake and chocolate mousse, it’s worth a try.

6. Princess Love Boat Nostalgia

If you’re on a Princess Cruise, there’s going to be some Love Boat nostalgia. From the cruise ship horn playing the Love Boat Theme Song (on some ships), to the Love Boat Disco Deck Party – it’s all in good fun!

You can even find Love Boat reruns on your cruise cabin TV.

7. Hooray for Room Service!

When we first started cruising, most cruise lines offered free room service. But, over the years we’ve seen that change. We love that Princess continues to offer a pretty decent room service menu!

Whether you order a light breakfast to have in your cabin before an early shore excursion, or a late night snack, just know that this is included with your cruise fare.

8. Princess Cruises Discounts and on board credit benefits

There are all sorts of discounts you should check for, if you’re booking a Princess Cruise.

From Military benefits,  Past Passenger discounts, and additional on board credits for *referring your friends (did you know about this one?) , these are things you should ask about when booking a Princess Cruise.

These additional onboard credits can be substantial – if you are a veteran or in the military, please inquire about the military benefit when booking with your travel agent or Princess directly.

To use the Refer Your Friends program, you must register your friend as a referral online. You will both get an additional on board credit, even if you aren’t cruising together. Check Princess Cruises website for details and current information.

9. Princess Cruises OceanMedallion Ships

Over the last year or so, you’ve probably heard a lot about Ocean Medallion cruises.

Basically, the Medallion device replaces the cruise card, and quite a bit more. Although not yet available on every cruise ship, Princess has said that 15 of its cruise ships will be OceanMedallion ready by the end of 2020.

If you have a smart phone, there’s a lot that you can do on your device. However, you don’t need to have a smart phone to use this, and it’s “free”. There is no additional charge.

I won’t go into all the details here, as I’ve put together a lot of information in these 2 previous posts (below).

If you’d like to read more about our personal experience with Ocean Medallion, you can find our review here: Our Ocean Medallion Cruise Experience on the Regal Princess

Additionally, as more information was released about Ocean Medallion,  I put this together to help answer any questions, from a cruiser perspective:  21 Things You Need to Know About Ocean Medallion

10. Princess Cruises MedallionNet – Internet and Wifi

Could it be that the days of expensive and sluggish internet on a cruise ship are slowly becoming a thing of the past?

After cruising on the Regal Princess last Christmas and New Year’s and paying less than $10 a day for unlimited internet – it has really spoiled us!

MedallionNet is available on all OceanMedallion cruise ships. The updated technology has allowed for fast internet, that works well even in your cabin.

However, this isn’t available on all Princess Cruise Ships yet. Check to see if your ship has this, and otherwise what internet packages you can buy, if you need this.

Remember that you don’t need to buy any internet package to use the Medallion or it’s features. You only need to purchase MedallionNet if you want to use the internet.

If you’d like to know more, please read this post .

If you’d like a video explanation of Ocean Medallion, you can see this in my YouTube video below.

11. Future Cruise Deposits and Booking On-board

If you’re cruising for the first time, or even if you’ve cruised a few times, you may not be aware of the advantages of booking your “next” cruise on board.

Most cruise lines offer an on-board booking incentive program, and generally they are advantageous. Princess Cruises has a really good one, which I believe is very worth it.

How does booking on-board work?

I often recommend to people, that if they have enjoyed their cruise, they should put down a deposit for a future cruise. Not only is the deposit reduced, but it will give you additional on-board credits on a future cruise, just for booking on-board.

That’s free money – and who doesn’t love this?!?

If you’ve booked with a travel agent, the future cruise reservation agent will send the booking to him or her, if you wish. You can even go home and transfer it to an agent, which may get you even more perks back home. There are some conditions , so please check before you book.

12. Princess Cruises Loyalty Program

One thing you’ll notice on a Princess Cruise, is the amount of repeat cruisers there are.

Why? Well, overall they offer a really good cruise experience and people want to cruise again.

However, they also have a really good loyalty program, called Captain’s Circle. They offer past passenger discounts, free internet minutes, a small discount in stores, and even at a certain loyalty level, free laundry, and more!

Seriously, they had me at free laundry. Ladies, am I right? 😉

13. Some Special Princess Cruise Ship Experiences that we Love!

I feel like I talk about food a lot, but Princess has some really great casual food and special experiences that are worth doing, and many cruisers just don’t know about it (and I want to make sure you do!)

Some “free” foodie experiences that you may enjoy include:

The British Pub Lunch

This is served on sea days often in the Wheelhouse Bar or Crown Grill. There is no extra charge for it.

They serve fish and chips, prawns, bangers and mash, and more. We think it’s fabulous and love it!

Tip: It gets busy and it’s quite popular, so go early.

Afternoon Tea

There are actually 2 afternoon teas served. One is served in the main dining room and there is no extra charge. The other is has a small charge and is served in a more intimate setting.

We did the afternoon tea, in the MDR for the first time while on our last Princess Cruise. We had some little cucumber sandwiches and some scones, cream and jam – it was soooo good!

14. Princess Cruises Shore Excursions Tips

I’m by no means suggesting that you book every shore excursion with Princess, or even that you need an excursion in every cruise port. However, there are times when it’s a good idea to book an excursion .

I’ve found a really good advantage, which many cruisers just don’t know about.

It’s the Best Price Shore Excursion Guarantee . Basically, the way this works is that if you find a very similar shore excursion online with another vendor, Princess will not only match the price, but give you a 10% difference in extra on-board credit.

Here is the form , which you can download from the Princess website.

15. Princess Cruises Glossary and Cruise Lingo Acronyms

First time cruisers will learn quickly that cruisers have a language all their own. You’ll hear frequent cruisers speak in cruise jargon and acronyms all the time.

These are just a few:

MDR – main dining room

IC – International Cafe

FCC – Future Cruise Credit

OBC – On board credit

TA – Travel Agent

B2B/B2B2B – 2 and 3 and more cruises all in a row

For a more extensive list of cruise vocabulary:  Cruise Lingo Glossary – 55 Words You Need to Know

Princess Cruises Embarkation Day – What to expect

I’ve put together this YouTube video about our recent Princess Cruise on the Crown Princess. It begins with our embarkation day, and you can follow along on our Caribbean cruise if you’d like to see some samples of dining and other aspects of cruise life on Princess.

If you enjoy, please consider subscribing to my YouTube channel where I share helpful cruise tips and vlogs.

Read next:   Princess Cruises Drink Packages (the details and menus) – Premium Beverage Package, New Grounds Coffee Package, Princess Plus perks

Recap:15 Awesome Tips for First-Time Princess Cruises

We’ve gone through some of the best things about cruising with Princess, and things first time cruisers will appreciate knowing.

One of the most important things to do, is actually to refer to your Princess Patter, the daily planner. This, or the app on your phone or portal, will help you to make sure you don’t miss anything important.

Even though my intention is to provide useful and helpful information, always check your own cruise personalizer, with your travel agent and/or Princess Cruises website for the most accurate information, that is relevant to your own booking.

Have you cruised with Princess or are you cruising soon? Do you have any extra tips?

Happy Cruising!!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Popular Posts:

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Will be “hopefully” leaving for a princess cruise up the coast of N.E./ Can. 7 days. I’ve always wanted to go on a cruise & now I can. We are traveling on the newest Ship. Enchanted Princess. Your videos/blog, besides being filled with information have me really excited for this trip. I’d like to see if there are any videos or the suites, other than the Sky suite (i.e. the Owner’s suite)and that class of suites. Also can you tell me what changes are to be expected due to Covid 19. For example will I need to mask in the MDR? What about at the pool? Etc.

What a great cruise and cruise ship! I’m so glad my videos & blog posts are helpful as you plan for your cruise.

For changes and policies, a lot will change and be updated before you sail. However right now you don’t need to wear a mask when eating, drinking or in a pool and outdoors in most cases. Let’s keep looking at the info from Princess and we’ll know more as it gets closer 🙂

I’m new to cruising and your content has been so helpful in figuring out my first cruise coming up at the end of March on Discovery Princess! I see Discovery Princess has Gigi’s Pizza instead of Alfredo’s. Is it the same? Similar? I don’t want to miss out on the Best Pizza at Sea!

Thanks! John

I’ll have to check into Gigi’s to see what is offered. The pizza on Princess is really good, even on the pool deck where there’s a pizzeria, so no need to miss out either way. Have an amazing cruise!!

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• Princess Cruises

Options for lunch on Embarkation Day

By wesport , February 25, 2023 in Princess Cruises

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What are the options for lunch on embarkation day. Is it just the Lido?

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There's usually 1 main dining room open. You'll have to check it out yourself though as some of the staff can't tell you which one.

2 minutes ago, wesport said: What are the options for lunch on embarkation day. Is it just the Lido?

The Main Dining Room  on deck 6 midship should be open from about 12 to 1:30.  If your ship has Alfredos you can get the best pizza there - made after you order it.

In addition to an MDR (usually open noon to 1:30), Alfredo's/Gigi's pizza restaurants (no charge) on ships that have them will be open.

The Alfredo's/Gigi's on Royal class ships also offer antipasto, a pasta dish (or two) and salads in addition to a selection of pizzas.  The International Cafe (which is on almost all ships) offers small sandwiches, salads and desserts at no charge and will be open too.

Also, while not a full blown meal, the International Cafe will have some savory foods available. Maybe a panini or two. Or shrimp salad or chef’s salad. Avocado toast.  Stuff like that. 

rnr4thatsme

Are the restaurants by the pool (Discovery Princess) open on embarkation day?  Or can you order food to your location?

28 minutes ago, rnr4thatsme said: Are the restaurants by the pool (Discovery Princess) open on embarkation day?  Or can you order food to your location?

Everything is open.  You can also order food using Princess App to your location.

All ships schedule one DR open usually noon to 1:30

Almost all ships have an International Cafe, take away food to your table

All ships have a buffet that will be open

Royal Class ships have Alfredo's waiter served pizza and other menu items

The Grand and Sapphire also have Alfedo's, pizza only.

All ships have pools side grill and pizza by the slice(exception Majestic). Majestic has a noodle bar.

Food items available on the app.

MsSoCalCruiser

Which ship will you be on? If you’re on the Discovery Princess, then it’s usually the Skagway dining room that is open for embarkation day lunch from 12 PM to 1:30 PM.

3 hours ago, MsSoCalCruiser said: Which ship will you be on? If you’re on the Discovery Princess, then it’s usually the Skagway dining room that is open for embarkation day lunch from 12 PM to 1:30 PM.

5 minutes ago, wesport said: Regal

I’m sorry, but I’m not sure which dining room it would be on the Regal because I’ve not yet sailed that ship. 

20 minutes ago, wesport said: Regal

Last Oct and Nov the Regal used the Dining Room on deck 6 midship for lunch.

• 8 months later...

Remember, the Alfredo's / Gigi's pizza in Princess is now a pay-to-eat option as it is considered one of their casual dining options. This is included if you have Princess Plus or Primier packages.

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More From Forbes

7 things to do as soon as you board a cruise ship.

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Making the most of embarkation day can set you up for an enjoyable cruise vacation.

If you’ve never cruised before, embarking a modern vessel for the first time can be truly overwhelming. You don’t know what you don’t know, but by not doing certain things within the first hours, you risk spoiling your dream vacation.

The embarkation day process for a cruise is like a streamlined airport experience. Cruise lines provide a time window, usually from late morning to mid-afternoon, for arrival at the port.

Upon arrival, keep your boarding documents and ID ready. Once you’ve dropped off your luggage, cruise staff guide you to check-in where you'll present your ID, complete a health form, and receive your cruise card or wristband.

This card acts as a boarding pass, room key, and payment card onboard. Some lines offer keyless embarkation, allowing direct access to rooms and cards collected at the cabin. Before boarding, you'll go through a security line, albeit less rigorous than at an airport.

Once onboard, make sure to do these seven things as soon as you can. From checking your accommodations to enjoying the iconic sailaway, these steps ensure you maximize your onboard experience right from the start.

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The top 10 richest people in the world (may 2024), toyota s suv lineup is new and refreshed which one is right for you, check your accommodation thoroughly.

As soon as you enter your cabin, inspect everything to ensure it meets your expectations and everything is in working order. Check that all facilities, such as the shower, toilet flush, lights, and electrical outlets, function properly.

If there is anything amiss, this is the time to contact guest services. You should expect a long queue on embarkation day, but the sooner you identify an issue, the higher the chance of a quick resolution, especially if an alternative cabin may be required.

You should check your cruise ship cabin and meet your room steward as soon as you can on embarkation ... [+] day.

This time also gives you an opportunity to stow your valuables in the cabin safe, and freshen up if desired.

Meet Your Cabin Steward

Introduce yourself to your cabin steward . They are key to ensuring your stay is comfortable, and will most likely call on you as soon as they realize you have arrived.

Discuss any specific preferences or needs you might have, such as extra pillows or allergies, or mention if you are late sleepers, for example. If you have any queries about room service or laundry options, now is the time to ask.

Cabin stewards are always professional, but getting to know yours early can enhance your onboard experience significantly.

Book Everything

Modern cruise ships are home to a dazzling range of entertainment and dining options. Early booking is crucial for popular onboard activities, dining reservations, and shore excursions.

In some cases, popular activities may have sold out prior to the cruise. For those that need to be booked on board, visit the relevant information desk or use the onboard app to make all your bookings as soon as possible.

You should also check your allocated dining time, if you are on a ship that operates a fixed dining concept. If you’re unhappy with the allocation, visit the maitre’d to request a change.

Attend Muster

The only absolute must-do on the first day is the muster drill. Prior to the pandemic, many cruise lines still required physical attendance in the theater or other large venue to go through the cruise safety procedures .

Nowadays, almost all cruise lines offer a virtual muster experience. Typically, a safety video is available on the cabin TV (which must be watched before accessing other functions) or even on the cruise line app.

You may still need to attend your designated lifeboat station to have your name taken, but this is straightforward and takes mere minutes.

Take Advantage Of Ship Tours

When you arrive in your cabin, check your daily planner to see if there are any introductory tours or sessions offered by the cruise line.

Embarkation day can be hectic and overwhelming. Join a guided tour to get your bearings.

Ship tours are ideal for first-time cruisers unfamiliar with the ship’s layout and generally how things work on board.

Keep an eye out for embarkation day tours or introductory sessions at the spa, fitness center, or casino. These often include special promotions or offers to kickstart your cruise experience.

Airplane Mode

To avoid hefty roaming charges, switch your phone to airplane mode. While at sea, your device could inadvertently connect to a cellular maritime network , which incurs high costs or data.

Even if you don't actively use your phone, you might accrue a significant bill from background data usage by your apps before you even receive an SMS notification—if you receive one at all.

Most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages, so consider purchasing one if you need to stay connected. Remember, cruise line apps typically require connection to the ship’s Wi-Fi network, but you can use them without buying an internet package.

Alternatively, use this time to disconnect and enjoy the break from constant connectivity. If so, use the time before sailaway to send some farewell messages.

Enjoy Sailaway

The sailaway party is a cruise tradition not to be missed. On many lines, the top decks will host live music and festivities as the ship departs.

It’s the perfect time to grab a drink, meet other travelers, and take in the stunning views as you set sail on your adventure. If you want to toast the sailaway, be sure to get a drink in good time, as the bars will all be busy.

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Princess Cruises' Star Princess ship delayed, 9 sailings canceled

Travelers will have to wait longer than planned to sail on Princess Cruises’ upcoming ship.

The delivery of Star Princess, which was set to debut next summer, will be pushed back by about two months. The cruise line said the delay was a “mutual” decision with shipbuilder Fincantieri.

“Following a comprehensive review of the remaining construction milestones, both parties have elected to adjust the ship's delivery date from July 29, 2025 to September 26, 2025, which will result in the cancellation of the nine inaugural sailings,” Princess said in a news release .

Guests whose cruises are impacted will be able to rebook on any Princess ship and, depending on which sailing they pick, receive future cruise and onboard credits. They will also be able to opt for a full refund of their fare instead.

“Despite our collective dedication and relentless pursuit to deliver the ship in late July, it has become evident that additional time is required to ensure the Star Princess is delivered to the highest standards expected by our guests,” Princess Cruises President John Padgett said in the release.

Your cruise was canceled: Now what?

The ship’s new inaugural itineraries will include 11 and seven-day Mediterranean cruises on Oct. 4 and 15, 2025, respectively. Those will be followed by a two-week transatlantic voyage to Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Oct. 22, 2025.

Those sailings will be available to book on April 30.

Star Princess will be the second in the line’s Sphere Class. Sister ship Sun Princess was also delayed ahead of its launch earlier this year, with Princess citing “additional technical work” needed at the shipyard.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Cruise Control: 30 Genius Tricks to Save Money on Your Trip

Posted: November 25, 2023 | Last updated: November 25, 2023

Have a luxury cruise for less

Be stateroom savvy

These days, most cruise lines publish detailed deck plans on their websites, so take time to study them before booking your room. We’re huge fans of Holland America’s color-coded downloadable deck plans, which use symbols to indicate cabin pros and cons, including obstructed views, half-height windows and accessibility. Can’t see a deck plan on the website? Email the cruise line and ask. Cabins with obstructed views can come with hefty discounts and the obstruction could be as little as a dangling line of rigging.

Opt for an older model

Dozens of new cruise ships are launched every year and you’ll almost always pay a premium to bag a cabin on the newest vessel. But don’t be too influenced by hype. Yes, your favorite line’s shiniest ship might have robot butlers, an indoor ski slope and five helipads (we’re slightly exaggerating), but take time to think about which amenities you’ll actually use before splashing the cash. Plus, the newest ships aren’t always the most exciting: Royal Caribbean's Oasis of the Seas launched back in 2008 and serves up glow-in-the-dark laser tag, one of the largest water parks at sea and the Bionic Bar, where drinks are poured by androids.

Board with bubbles

A lot of cruise-goers don’t realise that most cruise lines allow passengers to bring some of their own alcohol onboard, so always research your cruise’s regulations. Just be aware that most lines also stipulate that this alcohol must be consumed in your cabin – if it’s consumed in public areas, corkage fees will be imposed. Celebrity Cruises allows every passenger to bring two bottles of wine onboard on embarkation day and P&O Cruises allows one liter of beer, wine or spirits per person.

Enjoy all-inclusive eating

Most cruise ships have at least two restaurants in which you can dine for free – typically a buffet restaurant and a more formal dining room with an à la carte menu. Additionally there are often pop up-style options, such as the poolside pizza place found on Holland America's Koningsdam. Royal Caribbean ships are known for their wide range of restaurants and a special mention goes to Anthem of the Seas. The liner has seven venues, including Italian, Mediterranean and all-American outlets, at which guests can dine for free.

Seek out a sanctuary

Worried about bagging that poolside sun lounger or nabbing the best spot for the sunset? Give yourself a head start by splashing out on access to exclusive areas of the deck. Perks range from butler service and spa treatments to chilled face towels and poolside cabanas. One of our favorites is Royal Caribbean’s new-for-2022 Suite Neighborhood, which comes with 5-star dining and an infinity plunge pool. Norwegian Cruise Line’s version is The Haven, often referred to as a ship-within-a-ship. Book a Haven cabin and you’ll get butler service, priority disembarkation and access to a private sundeck.

Generally, the cheapest cabins are the ones lowest on the ship, but being nearer sea level isn’t necessarily a bad thing. If you’re on a transatlantic cruise or spending long periods at sea, you’re less likely to be bothered about the view from your balcony. And bear in mind that passengers on upper floors are more likely to experience seasickness, due to the greater range of sideways motion.

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Spruce up your cabin

Book a chauffeur

Don’t assume that chauffeur packages come with eye-watering price tags. Work out the cost of parking and gas if you're driving to the port or the fare if you’re booking a cab, then compare it with your chosen cruise line’s chauffeur prices. It's very possible there won’t be much difference, and these services often come with swoon-worthy extras like early embarkation and staff to deal with your luggage.

Join cruise events for free drinks

Regardless of whether you're bothered about meeting the captain or listening to a lecture about your cruise line’s latest destinations, doing so can pay major dividends. Events like the captain’s cocktail hour, art auctions and flash sales at onboard boutiques often come with complimentary drinks and nibbles. Who said there’s no such thing as a free lunch?

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Book a speciality restaurant

Speciality dining doesn’t have to break the bank as the extra fees are often minimal. Royal Caribbean, Silversea and Norwegian all have brilliant speciality restaurants for guests willing to fork out a little more, but it's not just the luxury lines that offer a wide range of eateries. On Virgin Voyages you'll have dozens of restaurants to choose from, all included in the basic fare, from the Pink Agave Mexican restaurant to Gunbae, where diners can cook their own steaks at a grill built into every table, and Extra Virgin, a beautiful trattoria with a private dining room.

Embrace room service

Many cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises and Holland America, offer room service at no extra cost. It’s a win-win situation – you start the day with an in-room feast and the cruise line reduces overcrowding in its most popular restaurants. Windstar Cruises is just one example of a line that goes above and beyond for in-cabin dining. There are no extra charges, the service is available 24 hours a day and the menu from flagship restaurant Amphora can be ordered during dinner hours.

Be clever with kids

Thinking of a multi-generational vacation? Save your hard-earned cash by booking cheaper cabins for certain members of your entourage. Kids and teens are much less likely to spend a lot of time in their cabins – let alone on the balcony you forked out for – when there are roller-skating rinks, water slides and go-karting circuits to check out. Often it is possible to book an inside cabin directly across the corridor from your balcony cabin so you can still keep an eye on them while saving money.

Upgrade your alcohol

We love cruise lines that offer complimentary alcoholic drinks, but some tipples will likely be excluded – like Champagne and premium spirits. If you’re partial to particular beverages your line might offer premium packages – Princess Cruises, for example, offers a Princess Premier package which includes a much wider range. Another tip? If you’ve got a weakness for certain wines, save money by buying a bottle rather than a glass and asking your waiter to cork it and keep it behind the bar for you.

Ask your steward

Don’t underestimate the power wielded by your cabin steward. Ask nicely and he or she can transform your cruise, whether it’s by doing the nightly turndown service at your preferred time, providing extra toiletries and a bathrobe or helping you bag your favorite restaurant’s most sought-after table. It's those little extras that can make your vacation feel more lavish.

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Shout about your special occasion

Most cruise lines will be more than happy to help passengers mark special occasions, whether it’s with complimentary birthday cakes, bottles of fizz or spa treatments. Email the customer service team well in advance to inform them of any occasions, and we’re not just talking about birthdays and honeymoons. Is it your first time sailing with that particular cruise line or the 10-year anniversary of your first cruise? In a crowded market, cruise lines are keener than ever to stop passengers straying to other operators, and are often only too happy to roll out perks to do so.

Formulate a spa strategy

If you’re planning to log a lot of spa time, book a cruise that offers complimentary access to spa facilities and keep an eye out for onboard spa events, often including skincare masterclasses that focus on certain brands. Yes, these events are often designed to draw you into purchases, but there’s no obligation to buy and therapists typically offer complimentary mini-treatments during these sessions. Another great hack is to book spa treatments during port days – Princess Cruises is one of many lines to offer discounts at these times to encourage passengers to visit outside peak periods.

Search for secret decks

Many modern cruise ships make the Titanic look tiny, and there's often more decks than you know to explore. Sure, deck number nine might be a great spot from which to soak up evening views and deck seven might boast the most sun loungers, but to avoid the crowds the lower decks should certainly be on your radar. They’re usually darker with less lighting, which means they’re great for stargazing sessions, and in rougher seas you’ll feel significantly less motion on decks closer to the waterline.

Choose the perfect pillow

Pillow menus are increasingly common on cruise ships (Disney Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines all have them) but don’t be afraid to request a certain type of pillow if you don’t find a menu in your cabin. There will almost always be harder or softer options available, and it’s another reason to stay on good terms with your cabin steward.

Enjoy a midnight snack

You’re on vacation, so normal rules don’t apply. Treat yourself to a midnight feast by ordering your favorite dessert after hours or snacking on those cookies you picked up from the buffet. Love those pillow chocolates your cabin steward dishes out every night? Don’t be afraid to ask for a few extras.

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Skip shore excursions...

You're not obliged to sign up for every available shore excursion. Port days are often the best days to chill out onboard: enjoy some downtime in the crowd-free lounges, treat yourself to some stressless retail therapy or do a few laps of the swimming pool. Spending huge amounts of time – and money – dragging yourself around every excursion in the calendar is hardly a one-way ticket to relaxation.

...or arrange your own

On the flipside, don’t be afraid to go it alone. Cruise lines are looking to make money, after all, and you’ll be able to find huge savings by booking your own activities and tours. This applies to almost any type of excursion – even if it’s a simple, self-guided trip on a scenic cable car or train, you’ll almost always pay extra.

Time for tea

Don’t assume you’ll need to fork out a fortune to enjoy a decadent afternoon tea – you’ll often find it's included in the price. Sail on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 and your fare covers daily afternoon teas in the Queens Room or Grills Lounge (we recommend the former, famous for its enormous crystal chandeliers). On Seabourn cruises it's the same and the buffet-style tea sessions come with a mind-boggling range of teas including mandarin, rose and ginger varieties.

Avoid pitch and roll

Nothing will ruin your cruise quicker than a bout of seasickness. If you’re prone to motion-related nausea purchase anti-sickness tablets in advance, or, if you’re caught unawares, ask for some at guest services. You’re less likely to feel the ship’s movement in lower cabins, at the rear of the ship and in the center. Don’t be afraid to ask to change cabins mid-cruise either.

Seek out family-friendly deals

If you’re planning a cruise with younger relatives, there are countless lines that offer promotions which can see kids sail for free (MSC Cruises, Holland America, Norwegian and others), as long as they’re in your cabin, sleeping in either bunk beds or a pull-out bed. These deals can result in huge savings, although bear in mind that younger guests will still incur taxes and port fees.

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Remember that bigger isn’t always better

Get more bang for your buck by opting for a cruise on a smaller ship. Fewer passengers means more space at key facilities like the spa, buffet restaurant and poolside, while events often feel more luxurious and intimate. Consider, for instance, the Windstar Cruises alfresco deck barbecue which takes place on every trip. Expect enormous vats of seafood paella and a whole roasted pig, which you can tuck into at tables draped with crisp linens dotted around the deck.

Stay connected

Cruises are perfect for a digital detox, but at some point you'll probably want to send photos to loved ones or check in on the news. If you’re planning to purchase an internet package, we’d advise against buying deals that detail a certain number of megabytes or hours. Ship-based connectivity is improving but it can still be sketchy at sea, and nothing’s worse than watching your allowance drain away while you wait for an email to send. Packages allowing unlimited use for the day or the whole cruise tend to offer the best value for money – typically costing around $12 a day. And if you do opt for a timed package, remember you may have to log off in order to stop the clock. The other option is to buy a data package that allows you to use your phone while in port for a much lower cost than using ship Wi-Fi. 

Shower in the spa

Do drinks-related research

Most cruise lines offer a wide range of drinks packages to cater to every type of passenger, so have a peruse before you pick. Celestyal Cruises, for instance, offer a $29-a-day Platinum All-Inclusive Package containing 101 different cocktails, liqueurs, aperitifs, premium wines, energy drinks and more, a $16-a-day Non-Alcoholic Package which includes pressed juices, milkshakes, smoothies and ice cream and a $10-a-day Kids Refreshing Package offering mocktails, milkshakes, hot cocoa and ice cream. Just don’t blame us when the sugar rush kicks in…

Double check what’s included

Before you choose your cruise or splash out on added extras, always check what’s included as standard – you’ll often get a pleasant surprise. For example, Silversea offers one hour of free internet a day in some cabin categories, while numerous cruise lines (Viking, for one) include excursions in the base fare.

Shop the sales

If you're in the planning stage of your cruise, it’s worth signing up for newsletters that can tip you off about one-off promotions and sales. You can often enjoy added extras without forking out huge sums: notable examples include Norwegian’s regular Free at Sea promotion, Holland America’s seasonal upgrade sales and Princess Cruises' Best Sale Ever event.

Now check out our review of Norwegian's cutting-edge Prima cruise ship

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Standby cruising: A new option for bargain seekers

In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port fees and extras. By comparison, Holland America in April listed a seven-day Caribbean itinerary in October from about $700.

The catch: She had just 48 hours’ notice.

McGown, a 64-year-old from Naples, Florida, who runs a restaurant franchise, took one of the line’s new standby cruises, which are aimed at travelers who live near departure ports and intended to fill ship vacancies.

“I look for deals, and this was an especially good experience,” McGowan said, praising the food and entertainment. “I was impressed enough to put down a deposit on a future cruise.”

A way to keep ships full

Holland America, headquartered in Seattle, introduced its standby program in August to maximize ship occupancy, knowing that cancellations are inevitable. So far, the rest of the cruise industry has not followed its lead.

“If cancellations are within a week or two of sailing, it’s difficult to resell that space in the open market,” said Dan Rough, vice president of revenue management at Holland America.

In the same way that airlines oversell seats, cruise lines may compensate for cancellations by overselling staterooms. Filling in with standbys, however, reduces Holland America’s reliance on overselling, which runs the risk of bumping passengers to distant departures or potentially offering generous cash incentives to coax volunteers to cancel.

Although the company does not heavily promote the new practice, it has attracted a following among the thrifty by dangling a bargain rate — $49 a person, whether sharing a cabin or traveling solo, before taxes and fees — on a webpage that lists available departure dates to attract flexible travelers. Standbys should expect an inside cabin, according to the company, although ocean-view and veranda cabins have been assigned. (The company declined to say how many standby cabins it has offered.)

“Forty-nine dollars per person, per day is pretty exceptional,” said Colleen McDaniel, editor of CruiseCritic.com, a website that reviews cruises, noting that the price covers all meals and entertainment. “You can’t find a cheaper rate at a land resort for what’s included.” (In 2023, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was nearly $156, according to STR, a data analytics firm that monitors the hospitality industry.)

To participate, travelers choose an itinerary from the standby list on the website — current embarkation ports include Boston; Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Montreal; Quebec City; San Diego; Seattle; Vancouver, B.C.; and Whittier, Alaska — and pay for the trip in advance by calling Holland America or booking through a travel adviser.

There are no refunds for standby cruisers who want to back out. However, if the gamble fails to pay off, and the cruise line cannot offer a cabin to someone on the standby list, it issues a refund.

The company says standby offerings are added on a rolling basis and usually lists itineraries within two to three months of departure. Current offerings include seven-day sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage from April through September and seven-to-11-day trips cruising the coast of New England and Canada’s Maritime Provinces between May and October.

Proximity is a bonus

Standby cruisers don’t learn of their acceptance or denial until a week to two days before departure, complicating transportation arrangements.

“Last-minute airfare could offset the savings on a cruise,” Crystal Seaton, owner of Road to Relaxation Travel, a travel agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina, wrote in an email. Although she has not booked a client on a standby sailing yet, she surmised that it is intended for travelers who can drive to a port.

“We were lucky; we found out Tuesday we were going on a Friday 3 p.m. sailing,” said Sheila Valloney, 66, of Clermont, Florida, who with her husband spent nine days aboard a Holland America ship in the southern Caribbean in February by going standby.

Before being cleared, she reserved a parking spot near the ship dock in Fort Lauderdale, which would have set her back about $6 if she canceled. She also kept their vacation clothes ready to go at the last minute for the 3 1/2-hour drive to port.

Booking a refundable airline ticket — or at least one that guarantees a credit in loyalty points or cash in the event of cancellation — is one way travelers who must fly can take advantage of the deal.

For her standby sailing, McGowan drove 90 minutes from her home to the ship in Fort Lauderdale. But her travel companion was coming from Indiana, so when she joined the standby list a few months before the departure date, she booked her friend a Southwest Airlines flight using frequent flyer points that would be refunded if the last-minute cruise didn’t come through.

Avoiding extra charges

Once on board, charges for extras such as cabin upgrades, Wi-Fi, alcohol and shore excursions can inflate the bill, although the thriftiest travelers try to avoid them.

McGowan sprang for the $17.50-a-day charge for an upgraded drink package (basic nonalcoholic drinks are included in the cruise) and took one shore excursion, focused on coffee growing, which she deemed a good value at $89.

On their Caribbean cruise, the Valloneys asked around for recommendations for good beaches, where they went to relax on port days, and waited until they were on land to check emails, in order to avoid paying for Wi-Fi on the ship.

“We didn’t miss it at all,” Valloney said. “For beverages, we would wait until happy hour, when it was buy one, get one free.”

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Will other companies follow suit?

To date, no other cruise lines have adopted standby programs.

Princess Cruises said it did not plan to offer cabins on a standby basis, but noted that it already offers last-minute deals, which tend to run about $50 to $60 per passenger per day. For example, a seven-day Alaska sailing from Vancouver to Anchorage departing May 8 is listed at $399 a person in a double-occupancy cabin.

Several other major cruise lines did not respond to inquiries about potentially adopting standby programs, although operators such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer last-minute deals on their websites.

“We would be surprised to see many mainstream cruise lines begin to adopt a similar model” to the standby system, Kimberly Coyne, head of sales and content strategy for Cruiseline.com, a cruise review site, wrote in an email. She said the standby fares might be financially unsustainable for cruise lines and cited the potential that travelers might become too accustomed to late-booking deals.

More ways to save

With the recent surge in cruise bookings, companies are discounting less, said McDaniel.

She identified more reliable ways to get a deal compared with going standby, such as booking during “wave season,” a sales period that generally runs January through March, or taking a repositioning cruise, in which a ship relocates from one region to another seasonally. A repositioning itinerary might sail in the fall from Alaska to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal.

“It’s not unusual to see a repositioning cruise at less than $75 per night,” McDaniel said, noting that other expenses such as an airline itinerary into one city and returning from another may cost more than a standard round-trip ticket.

Repositioning cruises tend to stop at fewer ports and add more shipboard enrichment programs, such as lectures and activities such as cake decorating classes and craft spirits tastings.

“For a lot of people, the ship is the destination and this is the perfect activity for people who like to be on the ship,” she said.