christmas cruise gift ideas

70+ Best Gifts for Cruisers 2024 (that are unique & practical)

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Perfect Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers for Every Holiday

If you’re looking for unique gift ideas for the cruiser in your life, this list of more than 70 cruise items includes both fun and practical ideas. This updated cruise travel gift guide will help you find the perfect gift for your cruise loving friends and family.

While nothing beats being on an actual cruise, getting cruise essentials that they can use on their next cruise will be so appreciated!

This cruise gift list includes unique travel gifts that you’ll get excited over and be proud to give! Plus, they’re all available on Amazon so you can conveniently shop online.

Looking for more cruise gift inspiration?

Check out our other related posts:

• 50  Most Recommended Amazon Items to Bring on a cruise
• 60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know
• Cruise Gift Exchange Ideas: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers
• 17 Cruise Cabin Essentials Every Cruiser Needs
• 25 Cruise Gift Bag Ideas that Are Fun to Make, Give and Receive
• 25 Affordable and Cute Cruise Outfits for Ladies
• 25 Best Cruise Dresses: Amazon Ladies Resort Wear

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

70 Best Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Travelers 2024

In this cruise gift guide you’ll find popular cruise accessories , travel related items, fun cruise t-shirts , masks and other novelty items. If you have additional suggestions of great gifts for cruisers, please leave me a comment at the bottom of this post.

Amazon Prime

Have you heard of Amazon Prime and wondered about the benefits?

*Free shipping benefits

As an Amazon Prime member, you have access to FREE faster shipping. Often, it’s same day and other times it’s 2 day shipping.

We’ve found the fast shipping so practical even for everyday items, especially as we’ve often tried to avoid going out for just a couple of things.

*Amazon Prime Video Steaming

We’ve now exhausted Netflix, and have found awesome shows and movies on Prime! 

If you aren’t a member yet, you can get an Amazon Prime free 30 day trial here , and still take advantage of the promos.

*Tip – If you don’t want to keep it, as there is a yearly fee, take note of the date you signed up and make sure to cancel before 30 days. 

Back to the cruise travel item list, that are favorites any time of year, but especially as we get closer to the holiday season.

Free 30 day Trial Amazon Prime (amazon link)

Best Cruise Accessories for 2024

Some of the most practical and useful gifts are cruise accessories and helpful packing items. These popular essentials are well loved by cruise travelers everywhere!

However, for the cruise traveler who has everything, I’ve included some new and unique travel gift ideas as well!

1. Hanging Cabin Organizer

Cruisers swear by the hanging organizer for toiletries and other essentials on a cruise. 

Recommended: Hanging cabin organizer (see Amazon link for price & details)

2. Magnetic Cabin Hooks

I personally recommend these magnetic cabin hooks . When we used them in our cabin on our last cruise, they freed up space in the closet (and on chairs). The small hooks are “heavy duty” so they can hold the weight of a backpack or sweatshirt, but also are a good place to store sunhats and hang bathing suits to dry.

Tip: Go with magnet hooks that are 75 lbs or more to have best results. Strong hooks can stick together, but sliding them apart (not pulling) will help.

Recommended: 6 pack Magnetic Hooks (strongest -see reviews on Amazon here))

3. Level 8 Carry On Luggage

Carry on luggage makes a great gift for cruise travelers. This lightweight carry-on size luggage has quiet & smooth wheels, making it easy to use for flights and cruises.

Recommended: Level 8 20″ Carry-on luggage (check reviews & price on Amazon here)

4. Air Tags

If you don’t have Air Tags yet, this could be a great gift for yourself! Place an air tag in each piece of luggage for peace of mind when traveling.

Consider using these air tag holders as well – I attach them to the zipper of the inside pockets of my suitcases.

Recommended: Air tag set of 4

4. Cute Towel Clips

These fun towel clips are great to keep towels put on a breezy sea day or at the beach. They make a great little cruise gift or stocking stuffer for the holidays.

Recommended: Towel clips – variety available (flamingos, margaritas, flip-flops)

5. Towel Bands

Cruisers who prefer to pack lighter for their vacation favor these lightweight towel bands . In fact, many people now say these towel bands are actually better than towel clips.

Recommended: Towel bands (check reviews & color options on Amazon)

6. Towel Bands with Clips

These lightweight towel bands with chair clips are easy to pack for your cruise and are great to use both on the ship and on beach shore excursions !

Recommended: Towel bands with clips (newer product. Check price & 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

7. Portable Lock-box Safe

Cruisers often wonder where they can put valuables and identification when on excursions or hanging out on the beach. This portable lock box safe is perfect to keep a cell phone, money and other personal items secure . 

Recommended: Portable lock box safe (see colors & reviews on Amazon)

Related: How to Keep Your Belongings Safe on a Cruise Vacation

8. Non-surge Protected Power Bar (cruise approved)

If you’re looking for a gift for someone going on a cruise, a non-surge protected power bar will be so useful! Cruise ship cabins are notorious for their lack of outlets, and regular power bars are not allowed to brought on board. 

Recommended: Cruise power bar – non surge protected (5* reviews – verify current price on Amazon here)

9. Power Strip Cube with USB (non-surge)

A newer cruise accessory that we are loving is this 6 outlet non-surge protected power strip cube with a USB-A and USB-C.

This has been one of the most popular cruise essentials this year!

Recommended: Power strip cube non-surge (with USB-A & C)

10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

This hanging toiletry bag and organizer makes it so easy to unpack the necessities on a cruise! Cruise ship bathrooms are small, and this is a must-have item to bring on a cruise. Available in medium and large.

Recommended: Hanging toiletry bag (check price, size, color options & over 30,000 5* Amazon reviews)

11. Toiletry and Travel Organizer Bags

This set of clear toiletry organizer bags are trendy, stylish and functional. The handle straps make these bags easy to travel with, as well as to use in hotels, cruise staterooms and at home.

Recommended: Clear toiletry & cosmetic travel organizer pouches (check price & 2000+ Amazon reviews here)

12. Cruise Card Holder

I’ve recently given this new cruise essential a try, and I am hooked! As an alternative to a cruise lanyard, this cruise card holder sticks right onto your phone case (so your key card is always in reach).

This handy item is a great gift for the cruiser who has it all!

Recommended: Cruise card holder phone pouch on lanyard

13. Poo-Pourri Bathroom Spray

Poo-Pourri is well loved by cruisers and not talked about that often. However, it’s definitely one of the most popular cruise items being ordered on Amazon !

14. Cabin Alarm Clock

If you like to know the time during the night or don’t want to rely on your cell phone, consider a simple travel battery operated clock . A lot of cruisers swear this is one of their favorite cruise accessories.

15. Cabin Nightlight

This portable nightlight is so practical and makes a great gift for cruisers. This is especially handy for i nside cabins , which will be pitch black when the lights are off.

Recommended:  Battery operated nighlight

16. Small Travel Fan

Cruise cabins can get stuffy. This small fan is battery operated, but rechargeable, and gets great reviews on Amazon.

17. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are fabulous for cruises. This set of packing cubes make a great gift for every member of the family! Consider getting at least 2 sets with different sizes, and color code to keep better organized.

Recommended: 5 star rated Packing Cubes

Read more:  Tips to Use Packing Cubes for Cruise Vacations

15. Cruise Crew Thank-you Cards

Recommended: Cruise staff thank you cards 

16. Cruise Gift Cards 

This cruise gift card is perfect to surprise your loved one with the gift of a cruise!! It says “Oh ship” on the front and “You’re going on a cruise!” on the inside.

Recommended: Cruise gift card (see details/what’s included here)

17. Cruise Lanyards

Cruise hands free with a cruise lanyard to hold your cruise card. Great for excursion days and on the cruise ship!

Recommended: Cruise lanyards

18. Travel Backpack Carry-On

This backpack is a popular Amazon travel item. Available in several colors, this travel backpack can be used as a personal bag when flying.

Recommended: Travel backpack (large size fits packing cubes, laptop & has a USB)

19. Seabands

Seabands are very practical to prevent motion sickness during cruises and boat excursions. These are great stocking stuffers or even as part of a cruise themed gift bag or basket.

Recommended: Seabands (see both adult and children’s sizes on Amazon)

20. Ginger Candies (for seasickness prevention)

Tummydrops ginger candies are a natural remedy for motion sickness. A bag would make a great stocking suffer or an item for cruise gift exchange.

Recommended: Ginger candies (natural & organic)

21. Snorkel Mask Gear

Cruise lovers are often beach and ocean lovers . If you’re looking for a great gift this year, consider a good quality snorkel set . It’s perfect for beach days or cruise excursions .

21. Folding Travel Mirror LED

A best seller, this folding travel mirror makes a great gift for women who travel and cruise.

Recommended: Folding LED travel mirror (see price & almost 5000 reviews on Amazon here)

22. Sunhat Clip

This magnetic hat clip was one of my favorite new finds for my Caribbean cruises this year.

Recommended: Magnetic hat clip for travel (check price & reviews here)

23. Portable Stainless Steel Straws

In an attempt to use less plastic, many cruise lines have eliminated plastic straws on board. Stainless steel drinking straws make a fun and useful holiday gift for cruisers. Plus, these are portable and cleaning brushes.

Recommended:   Portable Reusable straws (set of 4)

24. Cruise Luggage Tags

These plastic cruise luggage tags are reusable and save time on each and every cruise. They’re available for every cruise line (in wide or long sizes).

Cruise Luggage Tag Holders by Cruise Line:

These luggage tags are secure and are highly rated.

• Royal Caribbean
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America
• MSC Cruises

25. Waterproof Phone Cases on Lanyard

These waterproof phone cases are amazing to keep your phone and other items dry while at the beach or on excursions. You can even take photos under the water when snorkeling.

Recommended: Universal waterproof phone cases (check models for phone compatibility)

26. Nautical Carry-on Bag

This nautical travel tote bag is great to use as a carry on bag for cruises and flights. Roomy, sturdy and stylish, this carry on bag is an Amazon best seller!

Recommended: Nautical carry-on bag (different style options available)

27. Printable Cruise Planner

The Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner is a printable cruise travel planner that makes a great gift! The printable cruise planner includes several different cruise packing lists, checklists, planning forms for hotels, shore excursions and more!

A great idea is to print the pages out as needed and create a cruise travel binder as a holiday gift this year. Tip – print out a few extra shore excursion planning forms for multiple ports of call.

Recommended: Ultimate Cruise Planner (printable planner – see details here $10 off)

28. Swimsuit Cover Up

This gorgeous swimsuit cover up is available in while, black and other flattering colors. So pretty!

Recommended: Swimsuit cover up (see photos & reviews on Amazon here)

29. Cruise Binoculars

Recommended: Quality binoculars for the cruise traveler (see 10,000+ amazon reviews)

30. Compression Packing Cubes

If you’re packing carry-on only, compression cubes can be a life saver! These are an awesome deal & come in a few colors!

Recommended: Compression packing cubes (check price & over 7000 4.5* Amazon reviews)

31. Jewelry Organizer Travel Bag

This foldable jewelry travel bag is perfect to organize your jewelry for a cruise.

Recommended: Bagsmart Travel Jewelry Organizer (see details and read almost 9000 4.5*reviews here)

32. Travel Shoe Bags

This set of 4 travel shoe bags are great for the organized cruiser. They fit women’s and men’s shoes and are made of waterproof nylon material.

Recommended: Travel shoe bags (check price & see over 9000 great Amazon reviews)

33. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Reef safe sunscreen is required in several cruise ports. It can make a great gift on it’s own, or when included in a cruise gift basket.

Recommended: Reef safe sunscreen (spf 50)

34. Aloe Vera Gel

This quality organic vera gel is a best-seller for cruise travelers! It absorbs quickly without a sticky residue, and a must-have on anyone’s Caribbean cruise packing list.

Recommended: Seven Minerals Aloe Vera gel (verify price on Amazon here)

35. Travel Luggage Scale

The ultimate practical gift for any traveler, this electronic hanging travel luggage scale will be well used for years. It makes a great stocking stuffer too!

Recommended: Travel Luggage Scale (battery included)

36. Neck Wallet

A neck wallet is an essential on a Mediterranean cruise packing list and a great gift for cruisers planning that bucket list vacation!

Recommended: Neck wallet

37. Money Belt Passport Holder

A money belt/passport holder is a great cruise travel gift for a man or woman.

Recommended: Money belt & passport holder RFID protected (check price & 5000+ Amazon reviews)

Cruisers love their Kindle! For anyone thinking about packing lighter, the Kindle Paperweight Signature Edition is a well loved space-saver and makes an amazing gift for any cruise traveler.

Recommended: Kindle Paperweight Signature Edition(check price & check 20,000+ Amazon reviews here)

40. Water Shoes

Going on a Caribbean or Bahamas Cruise? Water shoes are a great gift for everyone in the family! There are different colors, patterns and sizes.

Recommended: Water shoes (see over 80,000 Amazon reviews)

41. Microfiber Beach Towel

For cruisers who prefer to bring a lighter towel to the beach and excursions, a large microfiber towel is perfect. It also keeps sand away and dries quickly, which is why this towel is becoming a cruise favorite for 2023.

Recommended: Large Microfiber Towel (quick dry)

42. Family Passport & Document Holder

This RFID passport wallet holder is one of my favorite new items I’m packing for my cruise. It has space for several passports and zippered pockets for documents other items.

Recommended: Family Passport & Document Holder (verify price & see details on Amazon)

43. Portable Charger with Cables

This portable charger with built in cables makes a great gift for travelers! I’ve recently purchased this power bank and its very convenient to use.

Recommended: Portable charger with built in cables

44. Waterproof Dry Bag

This waterproof dry bag is perfect for active cruisers. This best-selling Amazon items comes in a several sizes and colors.

Recommended:   Floating waterproof dry bag (verify price on Amazon)

45. Large Tote Beach Bag

This crochet tote beach bag is both trendy and aesthetic. Ladies who appreciate cruise fashion will love this cute knit bag.

Recommended: Knit tote beach bag

46. Travel Bottles and Containers

A set of leak proof travel bottles and accessories is a must-have travel essential. This set includes everything a cruise traveler needs.

Recommended: Travel containers set (check price & over 15,000 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

47. Personal Mini Fan

This portable personal mini-fan is sure to be a favorite gift item this year!

Recommended: Portable personal mini fan (highly rated)

Related: 37 Long Flight Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-on

Cruise Cabin Decorations & Fun Cruise Items

Simple cabin door decorations are used by many cruisers to help their stateroom door stand out among the long cruise ship hall. Do verify that the cruise line allows decorations on cabin doors.

48. Cruise Porthole Sticker Decal

is easy to apply and peels off, and can be great for any hard core cruiser to use both on the ship and off. Hmmm…home office or guest room maybe?

Recommended: Cruise ship porthole sticker/decal

49. Cruise Cabin Door Decoration Set

This set of cruise cabin decorations is very popular and gets great reviews from cruisers.

Recommended: Nautical cruise cabin decorations

50. Drink Package Magnet Decoration (personalized)

Cruise cabin doors are usually metal, so magnet decorations are perfect! Great for drink package fans!!

Recommended: Drink package magnet decoration (customizable)

51. Disney Cruise Line Fish Extender

If you’re heading on a Disney Cruise, best come prepared with a Disney Fish Extender for your cruise cabin door. The 3 pockets will fit all Disney Fish Extender gifts for kids & adults throughout the fish exchange.

Recommended: Disney Fish Extender Door Decoration (see reviews & details – Amazon)

Read more:  Cruise Cabin Door Decorations: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers

52. Cruise Ducks

Cruise Ducks are a trend that keeps on going! This done for you cruising ducks set on Amazon includes everything you need to hide ducks on your next cruise.

Recommended: Cruise ducks set (180 pieces)

Cruise Novelty Items – cruise t-shirts, coffee mugs, masks and more

Perfect gifts for avid cruisers who want to continue the cruise lifestyle both on and off a cruise ship!

53. Cruise lover’s everyday coffee mug

If you love cruising, you know how accurate this is! It’s a perfect mug to help count down the days until the next cruise.

54. Sip and Cruise Mug

Love this Sip & Cruise Mug !

Recommended:  Cruise coffee mug

55. Cruise “drink package” novelty t-shirts

There are a wide variety of funny cruise t-shirts that can be found.

Tip: Check on Amazon for your favorite styles.

Related: 15 Matching Cruise Shirts for Families, Couples & Groups

56. Cruise Caps

Matching cruise caps are the cutest thing! I can imagine how fun they would be to have on board.

57. Sailor Hats

Sailor hats can be found in different sizes, from adult to child size. Cruise addicts across the seven seas will swoon!

Cruise Themed Gifts and Jewelry

58. cruise-ship tie clip.

Recommended: Cruise ship tie clip

59. Men’s Anchor Bracelet

Perfect for the man in your life that enjoys sailing, cruising or simply enjoys the sea. This handsome rope knot bracelet is adjustable to fit to any man’s wrist size. I love that the anchor is quality stainless steel, which won’t rust or tarnish.

Practical Tech Cruise Gifts

If the cruise lover in your life is into nature, photography or tech, these tech travel gadgets will be appreciated on future cruise vacations.

60. In Flight Airplane Phone Holder

This in flight phone holder makes a great gift or stocking stuffer for anyone who travels!

Recommended: Airplane phone holder (check price & amazon reviews here)

61. Selfie Stick and Tripod (with Bluetooth wireless remote)

Before my family went on our last cruise, I bought this selfie stick tripod and I love it! The fact is, it’s just easier to take better photos and videos with the long reaching arm, even if you don’t take selfies. It has a bluetooth remote (you don’t need wifi).

Recommended:  Selfie Stick and Tripod with Bluetooth wireless remote (verify price on Amazon here)

62. Portable Phone Charger

While a power bar is important to have in your cruise cabin, a portable charger or power bank is so practical when traveling to and from the ship, and on excursions. We used this brand on our last cruise to charge two phones at a time! It was awesome and long lasting!

I’ve updated this link to the latest model, to be compatible with most new phones, but please check for your own.

63. Princess Medallion Holder

Princess Medallion holder for watch straps is an awesome new item available on Amazon for Princess cruisers.

Recommended: Princess medallion watch holder

Cruise Items for the Cruise Lover’s home

64. fun cruise sign.

“What happens on the ship… stays on the ship.” (sign) . What a fun reminder of a great cruise vacation!

Recommended:  Fun cruise sign

65. Create Cute Cruise Towel Animals at Home

This fun cruise novelty item will actually teach you how to create 8 different towel animals, just like on the cruise ships.

Recommended: How to Make a Towel Monkey by Carol Mulanax

66. Cruise Shower Curtain

Bring a little cruise home, the selection of cruise and beach theme shower curtains is amazing on this site! Do remember to measure which length you need. I love the variety and it’s so cute for a guest bathroom!

Recommendation: Cruise theme shower curtain

Cruise Books

Books about cruising are great gifts for anyone planning a cruise, or who enjoys reading both fiction and non fiction cruise books at home or at sea.

67. Cruise Confidential

This popular cruise book is a bit of a behind the scenes look at cruise life (and all that really happens), as told by a former crew member.

68. Joy of Cruising by Paul C. Thornton

Recommended: The Joy of Cruising (see kindle and paperback versions)

Sign up for an Amazon Kindle Membership to have access to thousands of audio books and ebooks.

I love the idea, especially if you love to read on a cruise, but are trying to pack light and avoid bring lots of heavy books. You can find more information here: Amazon Kindle Membership

69. Cruising Interrupted: the Follow Up to Joy of Cruising

I’m proud to be among some of the great interviews in the book, Cruising Interrupted . What a time for the cruise industry! Author Paul C. Thornton did a great job with this interesting book any cruise lover will be happy to receive!

Recommended: Cruising Interrupted

70. Mediterranean Cruise Ports Travel Guide

One of my favorite travel resources is Rick Steves. If you are cruising to the Mediterranean this guide is geared specifically for cruisers who only have 8-10 hours in each cruise port and want to make the most of it.

Recommended:   Rick Steves Mediterranean Cruise Ports

71. Fodor’s Alaska Guide

Cruising to Alaska? A guide book with information all in one place can be so handy! If cruising to another destination, check on other Fodor’s Travel Guides.

Recommended:  The Complete Guide to Alaska Cruises (Fodor’s)

Read more:   25 Best Selling Cruise Books – Cruise Travel Guides, Fiction & More!

Cruise Theme Christmas Items & Gifts

72. christmas cruiseship ornament.

This old world cruise ship Christmas tree ornament is so nostalgic! It’s glass blown and just beautiful.

Recommended: Old World Christmas Cruise Ship Ornament

73. Cruise Ship Ornament

This Kurt Adler cruise ship ornament makes a great keepsake for cruisers!

Recommended: Cruise ship ornament

Bonus Cruise Gift Idea

Consider creating a cruise gift bag or basket out of some of the items on this list! It will be useful and anyone going on a cruise will love it!

YouTube Video 20 Best Holiday Gifts for Cruise Lovers

In this YouTube video, you’ll see some of the most popular cruise essentials as well as some new, unique travel items for cruisers.

Recap: 70+ Best Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

We’ve gone through 65 unique cruise items that make great gifts for frequent cruisers, as well as new cruisers.

From practical cruise accessories items, cruise travel gadgets to fun cruise novelty products – these items are awesome for anyone who loves to cruise. You may even want to share this cruise gift guide with others who are shopping for you (hint hint).

Sign up for Amazon Prime 

If you don’t already have it, it’s a good idea to sign up for Amazon Prime for the benefits. Amazon Prime gives you access to free 1, 2 or even same day delivery, streaming movies and shows, and unlimited storage of photos.

Here a link to sign up for an Amazon Prime Free 30 Day Trial . 

Other Amazon services you may like:

• Audible Plus Free Trial all you can listen membership with access to thousands of books, podcasts & more
• Amazon Fresh a free 2-hour delivery on tons of products – including groceries, everyday essentials & more
• Kindle Unlimited Membership Plans (first month free)   unlimited reading of millions of ebooks, thousands of audiobooks, on any device
• Personal Shopper by Primer Try Before You Buy styling service & personal recommendations

More Gift Guides & Lists:

• 37 Long Flight Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-on
• Best Travel Gadgets & Tech items to Bring on a Cruise
• 25 Best Gifts for Women Who love to Travel
• Plus Size Cruise Wear: Beautiful Cruise Outfits
• 25 Affordable Cruise Outfits for Ladies
• 17 Cruise Stateroom Essentials Every Cruiser Needs

What items have you used or bought as a gift that you can recommend? Is there something you really love? Let me know in the comments below.

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!

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100+ Cruise Gift Ideas: Find the Perfect Gifts for Everyone!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

There’s something magical about the vast blue sea, the rhythm of waves, and the horizon stretching endlessly — it’s no wonder cruises captivate the wanderlust in many of us. But with the vast array of travel gadgets, accessories, and cruise-themed items available, how do you pick the right one?

Fear not, oceanic gift-hunters! We’ve plunged into the depths to bring you a treasure trove of cruise gift ideas that’ll have any traveler sailing in style and comfort.

Whether it’s gadgets to enhance cabin life, cruise essentials for tropical excursions, or just something to remind them of the vast ocean, our list promises waves of inspiration for every kind of cruiser.

The Art of Gifting

The gentle lapping of waves, the allure of foreign shores, and the soft hum of the cruise ship as it slices through vast expanses of ocean – these are the sounds and sights of a memorable cruise journey.

But what can truly elevate the cruise experience, creating cherished memories that transcend time, is the age-old tradition of gift-giving. Incorporating gifts before, during, and after a cruise can transform a delightful journey into an unforgettable experience.

Before the Cruise: Building Anticipation

The time leading up to a cruise can be filled with a mix of excitement and anticipation. Gifting something prior to the cruise can heighten these feelings, adding an extra layer of magic.

Consider, for instance, gifting a travel guidebook about the destinations on the itinerary. This not only allows for pre-trip planning but also sparks imagination and excitement about the upcoming adventure.

For children, consider cruise-themed toys or storybooks, which can help them visualize and look forward to the journey. These gifts serve as a prelude, setting the tone and creating an atmosphere of anticipation.

During the Cruise: Enhancing the Experience

While the cruise itself is packed with myriad activities, excursions, and moments of relaxation, introducing gifts during the journey can amplify the experience. A gift can act as a reminder that, amid the grandeur of the voyage, personal and thoughtful gestures still matter.

Imagine the delight of receiving a special spa package after a tiring day of shore excursions, or a customized picnic basket for a beach day.

For those celebrating special occasions onboard, like anniversaries or birthdays, a surprise gift can become the centerpiece of their celebration, turning a moment into a cherished memory.

Furthermore, for travelers who are new to cruising, a thoughtful onboard gift can ease any lingering anxieties, making them feel valued and at home.

After the Cruise: Reliving the Moments

The return from a cruise can often be bittersweet. The journey may have ended, but the memories linger, waiting to be revisited. This is where post-cruise gifts can play a pivotal role.

Gifting a beautiful photo album can provide an opportunity to relive the journey, allowing one to organize and cherish the moments captured. A souvenir, perhaps something unique from a visited port, can act as a tangible reminder of the places explored and the experiences gathered.

Even a simple handwritten letter, recounting shared moments or expressing gratitude for the shared journey, can be a heartwarming gesture, reminding recipients of the joy of the trip and the deeper bond forged during the voyage.

Gifts for Every Kind of Cruiser

Setting sail on a cruise is an adventure in itself, and selecting the perfect gift can heighten the excitement and wonder of the journey. Recognizing that every traveler is unique, we’ve anchored down on a list tailored for diverse types of cruisers. Whether you’re looking to surprise them before they embark or once they’re onboard, this guide will steer you towards making their cruise truly unforgettable.

The Adventure Seeker

Before the Cruise :

• Waterproof Backpack : Ideal for those shore excursions where they’ll be hiking, swimming, or exploring.
• Portable Water Filter Bottle : Perfect for the adventurer who wants to stay hydrated while ensuring their water is clean and safe.

On the Cruise :

• Shore Excursion Voucher : A ticket to an adrenaline-pumping activity like zip-lining, scuba diving, or parasailing at a cruise stop.
• Action Camera : Whether it’s GoPro or another brand, they can capture their thrilling moments in high definition.

The Sticks-to-Themselves Cruiser

• Noise-Canceling Headphones : So they can tune out the world and dive into relaxation with their favorite music or podcasts.
• Captivating Book : Grab your loved one a great book to read on one of the vast decks spanning the length of the ship.
• Spa Package : Gift them a day of unwinding with massages, saunas, and more.
• Premium Lounge Access : A quiet, comfy spot onboard where they can read, nap, or simply enjoy the serenity.

The Culinary Cruiser

• Global Spice Kit : A collection of spices from around the world, so they can recreate some cruise delicacies at home.
• Cruise Cookbook : Recipes inspired by popular cruise ship dishes.
• Specialty Dining Experience : A reservation at one of the ship’s gourmet restaurants.
• Wine or Cheese Tasting Session : An onboard experience where they can savor and learn simultaneously.

The Entertainment Buff

• Portable Theatre Glasses : Compact binoculars to get a closer look during stage performances.
• Music Playlist or Subscription : Curated tunes to get them into the vacation mood.
• Show Tickets : Ensure they have a seat at the most talked-about performances onboard.
• Behind-the-Scenes Tour : An exclusive look at the ship’s entertainment facilities, like the theatre or music studios.

The Family Cruisers (Traveling with Kids)

• Ocean-themed Board Games : Fun for the entire family, fostering bonding and excitement.
• Travel Journal for Kids : A space for young ones to document their adventures.
• Family Photo Session : Professional snaps to remember their journey by.
• Family Shore Excursion : An outing tailored for all ages, ensuring memories are made together.

Every cruiser has their own rhythm and style of enjoying the vastness of the sea.

By focusing on what resonates with their spirit, your gifts can enhance their journey, adding layers of joy, wonder, and memories that echo long after they’ve returned to shore. Set sail with your gestures of love, and watch them unfold in waves of gratitude!

Cruise Gift Ideas for Kids

Ahoy, mini-adventurers and budding pirates! The sparkling seas and breezy decks of a cruise ship hold countless wonders for young explorers, whether you are cruising with toddlers or pre-teens. But how can we make their maritime experience even more enchanting?

Whether it’s a birthday surprise, a celebratory present, or simply a ‘just because’ gift, our guide has been meticulously curated to steer you in the right direction.

Categorized by age and occasion, we’re about to make waves with these delightful ideas.

For the Tiniest Deckhands (0-3 years)

• Baby Sailor Outfit : Make their first cruise photo-worthy with a nautical-themed onesie or romper. It’s as adorable as it sounds!
• Soft Marine Animal Toys : Introduce them to the wonders of the sea with plush dolphins, whales, or turtles. Perfect for snuggles during naptime.
• Nautical Baby Blanket : Ensure they’re wrapped in cozy comfort with a sea-themed blanket, keeping them warm during cooler evenings on deck.
• Baby Swim Gear Set : Complete with a tiny sunhat, swimsuit, and swim diapers, this set ensures your littlest one is ready for some pool fun.

Junior Explorers (4-7 years)

• Pirate Adventure Kit : Ahoy matey! This kit, complete with a telescope, pirate hat, and map, ignites imaginative adventures on the high seas.
• Interactive Ocean Life Book : Dive deep into marine life with colorful illustrations and interactive flaps, broadening their horizon about sea creatures.
• Kids Waterproof Camera : Let them capture their favorite moments on deck or during shore excursions. It’s durable, easy to use, and, most importantly, waterproof!
• Sea-themed Craft Kit : Hours of entertainment as they create their own marine-inspired masterpieces, be it fishy stickers, sailboat origami, or seashell art.

Tween Navigators (8-12 years)

• Marine Biology Kit : A blend of fun and education, this kit lets tweens explore marine life specimens and offers a closer look into the magic underwater.
• Cruise Journal : Encourage them to jot down memories, stick souvenir tickets, or sketch their favorite views, creating a keepsake for years to come.
• Deck Card Games Set : Classic games like Uno or Go Fish, with a nautical twist, promise hours of fun with fellow young cruisers.
• Portable Waterproof Speaker : Let them groove to their favorite tunes, whether they’re lounging by the pool or enjoying some downtime in the cabin.

Gifts for Special Occasions

• Birthday at Sea : Consider a personalized nautical necklace or bracelet . It’s a beautiful keepsake reminding them of the special day they celebrated mid-ocean.
• First Cruise : A ship-in-a-bottle kit . Building their own model ship captures the essence of their maiden voyage.
• Holiday Cruises : A personalized Christmas ornament in the shape of a cruise ship makes a festive reminder of their holiday at sea.

From the minute they step aboard with twinkling eyes to the moment they disembark with hearts full of memories, these gifts promise to add layers of joy and wonder to their cruise journey. Whether they’re spotting dolphins, dancing under the stars, or simply absorbing the vastness of the ocean, these presents are sure to make their cruise an unforgettable adventure.

Romantic Cruise Gifts

Navigating the vast ocean of love is a journey as timeless and profound as any sea voyage. Whether you’re celebrating anniversaries on the open waters, your honeymoon on a cruise , or simply sharing a sunset on the deck, understanding your partner’s love language can elevate every moment.

Dive into our curated list of cruise gifts, tailored to speak each of the five love languages, and segmented by romantic occasions and preferences.

Words of Affirmation

Honeymoon :

• For Him : A leather journal to document your shared adventures.
• For Her : An elegant pendant engraved with a heartfelt message.

Anniversary :

• For Him : A personalized timepiece, engraved with the date of your wedding.
• For Her : A custom-made diary with prompts recalling your years together.

Valentine’s Day :

• For Him : A handwritten letter detailing the reasons you cherish him.
• For Her : A poem or a heartfelt note, enclosed in a cruise-themed locket.
• For Him : A vintage map of your shared journeys, annotated with your memories.
• For Her : A personalized book with letters to her for each year ahead.

Christmas :

• For Him : A custom leather passport holder, engraved with an affectionate message.
• For Her : A beautifully bound book of romantic quotes from around the world.

Acts of Service

• For Him : A surprise scuba diving or paragliding session at a tropical port.
• For Her : A pre-booked spa day, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation.
• For Him : Organize a surprise movie night under the stars on the ship’s deck.
• For Her : A private evening at the ship’s most romantic spot, complete with a violinist.
• For Him : A personalized treasure hunt around the cruise, leading to a surprise gift.
• For Her : Breakfast in bed, complete with her favorite morning delights.
• For Him : Pre-order his favorite drink and snack to be delivered at sunset.
• For Her : A surprise room makeover with flowers, chocolates, and candles.
• For Him : A DIY coupon booklet offering acts of service, like massages or taking his shift at a planned activity.
• For Her : A planned day where she gets pampered from sunrise to sunset.

Receiving Gifts

• For Him : A vintage-inspired, marine compass, symbolizing the direction and adventure your love will take.
• For Her : A piece of jewelry, perhaps a charm bracelet, where each charm represents a destination on your cruise.
• For Him : A curated box of gourmet snacks and beverages from each port you’ve visited.
• For Her : A personalized jewelry box, with intricate designs reminiscent of your shared travels.
• For Him : A limited edition cruise ship model, paying homage to your voyage together.
• For Her : A custom perfume, inspired by the scents of your cruise destinations.
• For Him : A classic nautical watch, representing the timeless nature of your love.
• For Her : A beautifully crafted cruise-themed pendant.
• For Him : A collection of travel books covering your next potential cruise destinations.
• For Her : A luxury cruise-themed calendar filled with photos from your previous travels.

Quality Time

• For Him : A private deep-sea fishing session at a popular port-of-call.
• For Her : A reservation at the ship’s specialty dining venue for an intimate meal.
• For Him : A whiskey or wine tasting experience onboard.
• For Her : A private art class that focuses on a craft from one of your cruise destinations.
• For Him : An onboard casino night, with a set budget for a night of fun.
• For Her : An evening at the ship’s theater, followed by a moonlit stroll on deck.
• For Him : A reserved day at the cruise’s golf simulator or virtual reality gaming zone.
• For Her : A day-long retreat to the ship’s spa, including all treatments and amenities.
• For Him : A booked session to learn a new onboard hobby, like photography or mixology.
• For Her : A reserved table for a special Christmas dinner onboard, complete with live music.

Physical Touch

• For Him : A massage or grooming session at the onboard spa.
• For Her : A luxurious bubble bath setup in your cabin, complete with rose petals and essential oils.
• For Him : An onboard fitness class you can enjoy together, like partner yoga.
• For Her : A couple’s massage, focusing on relaxation and connection.
• For Him : A reservation for the ship’s jacuzzi, with chilled champagne waiting.
• For Her : A dance class, where you can sway to the rhythms of love together.
• For Him : A sauna or steam room session, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation.
• For Her : A beauty treatment day, including a mani-pedi, facial, and hair styling.
• For Him : A surprise dip in the ship’s heated pool, under the stars.
• For Her : A cozy blanket and a reserved spot on the deck to watch the Christmas festivities.

In the vast tapestry of love and romance, it’s the thought and effort behind each gesture that truly makes waves. By tailoring gifts to resonate with your loved one’s unique language of love, you ensure a cruise journey rich in moments that will be treasured for a lifetime. So, set your sails and chart a course straight to their heart!

Top Cruise Souvenir Gifts

When you’re out at sea, exploring enchanting destinations, the joy of the journey is made even more memorable when you can bring a piece of it back for your loved ones. Choosing the right souvenir can be an art.

It’s all about finding something that not only captures the essence of the place but also resonates with the person receiving it. Let’s navigate through some popular cruise destinations and the best souvenirs to pick up for those awaiting your return.

Caribbean Cruises:

• Local Crafts : The Caribbean is renowned for its handcrafted items, from woven bags to wooden sculptures. These authentic pieces carry the spirit of the islands within them.
• Spices and Rums : Think of Grenada’s nutmeg or Barbadian rum – these aromatic and flavorful souvenirs are a treat for the senses and evoke the tropical essence of the Caribbean.

Mediterranean Cruises:

• Olive Oil and Wines : From the groves of Greece to the vineyards of Italy, gifting premium olive oil or a bottle of local wine is like sending a taste of the Mediterranean.
• Artisanal Soaps : Especially from places like Provence or Turkey, these soaps infused with lavender, rose, or olive offer a fragrant memory of the journey.

Alaskan Cruises:

• Native Handicrafts : Ulu knives, totem poles, or beadwork jewelry – Alaskan native crafts are unique and tell tales of its indigenous cultures.
• Salmon and Jerky : Smoked or canned salmon and reindeer jerky are not just delicious but are also a taste of Alaska’s wild bounty.

Asian Cruises:

• Tea and Pottery : Gifting a pouch of aromatic tea, especially from places like China or Japan, along with a traditional teacup, is like sharing a ritual.
• Silk and Hand Fans : Reflecting the elegance and artistry of Asian cultures, these make for both practical and beautiful gifts.

Scandinavian and Baltic Cruises:

• Viking Memorabilia : Be it a replica of a Viking ship or helmet, it’s a nod to the region’s rich history.
• Amber Jewelry : Particularly from the Baltic regions, amber jewelry is not only stunning but also carries tales of the ancient seas.

South Pacific Cruises:

• Pearls and Tapa Cloth : The lagoons of the South Pacific, especially places like Tahiti, are known for their pearls. Tapa cloth, on the other hand, is a traditional art form and a piece of Polynesian history.
• Wooden Masks and Carvings : These intricate items are not just decorative but are imbued with the region’s cultural narratives.

When selecting a souvenir, always remember that the value of the gift lies not in its price tag but in the story it carries. It’s a tale of distant lands, of cultures met, and of adventures had. And each time your loved one looks at or uses that souvenir, they’re not just reminded of you but also get a glimpse into the wondrous journey you undertook.

Unique & Obscure Cruise Gift Ideas

The thrill of receiving a gift often lies in its unexpectedness, a delightful surprise that one never saw coming. For those looking to embark on the less-traveled route of cruise gifting, this section is your treasure map.

Dive deep into the ocean of creativity and discover gift ideas that are as unique as they are thoughtful. Here’s a guide to some offbeat cruise gift ideas that are bound to make waves:

Customized Star Map

Why? : Gaze at the night sky during a cruise and you’ll be enamored by the stars. Gift a customized star map of the coordinates and date of their cruise. It’s a stellar way to commemorate a special voyage.

Ship-in-a-Bottle DIY Kit

Why? : A delightful blend of craft and nostalgia. This DIY kit allows the recipient to assemble their very own ship in a bottle, echoing the maritime charm as one of the top cruise gift ideas.

Ocean-scented Candle Set

Why? : When the cruise is over and they’re back home, this gift will waft in memories of the sea, salty breezes, and the feeling of being adrift in the vast ocean.

Bioluminescent Plankton Kit

Why? : A hands-on experience to cultivate and watch these magical sea creatures glow in the dark. It’s a tiny replica of the natural phenomena they might witness in certain oceanic regions.

Custom Nautical Knot Cufflinks or Jewelry

Why? : A subtle nod to the maritime world, these intricate designs can be worn during formal cruise nights, ensuring they stand out in style.

Antique Maritime Compass

Why? : A piece of functional history. Not only can it be used during shore excursions, but it also stands as a symbolic reminder that adventure is always on the horizon.

Personalized Sea Storybook for Children

Why? : Crafted with the child’s name and persona, this storybook can transport young travelers on a magical maritime adventure, ensuring bedtime onboard is filled with wonder.

Ocean Sound Wave Art

Why? : Translate the soothing sound of waves into visual art. Gift a framed print that captures the waveform of the sea’s audio, making it both an aesthetic and sentimental piece.

Virtual Reality Underwater Exploration Set

Why? : For those days when they can’t dive into the depths, this VR set offers immersive experiences of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life, right from the comfort of their cabin.

Portable Sea Salt Maker

Why? : Let them harvest their own sea salt! A quirky gift that allows them to process and crystallize sea water into gourmet salt, adding a pinch of their journey to future meals.

Gifting is an art, and when you blend creativity with thoughtfulness, the result is pure magic. These unique cruise gifts are not just tangible items but experiences, memories, and a testament to the fact that when it comes to showing love, sometimes it’s the offbeat path that leads straight to the heart.

Christmas Cruise Gifts

All aboard the jolly express! The magic of Christmas combined with the allure of cruising creates a holiday experience like no other.

As sparkling lights adorn cruise decks and carols float in the salty sea breeze, there’s no better time to shower your loved ones with thoughtful gifts tailored to their cruising desires. Sail smoothly through your Christmas shopping with our comprehensive guide, segmented by the gift receiver and their unique interests.

The Nautical Enthusiast

• Ship Blueprint Art : Elegant blueprints of classic cruise ships or famed maritime vessels, perfect for decorating their cabin or home.
• Maritime Literature : Think classics like “Moby Dick” or “Master and Commander” that’ll transport them to the high seas even while docked.
• Ship Wheel Christmas Ornament : A festive touch for their tree, celebrating their love for the ocean.

The Wellness Wanderer

• Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser : Portable and compact, it’ll fill their cabin with soothing scents, enhancing relaxation.
• Travel Yoga Mat : Lightweight and foldable, allowing them to practice their stretches with oceanic views.
• Spa Voucher : Gift them a luxurious treatment aboard, from deep tissue massages to rejuvenating facials.

• Cruise Cookbook : A collection of recipes inspired by popular cruise ship dishes, allowing them to recreate the flavors at home.
• Mixology Set : Compact cocktail-making tools so they can shake or stir their favorite drinks right in their cabin.
• Specialty Dining Experience : Book them a seat at the ship’s most exclusive restaurant for a memorable Christmas dinner.

The Adventurous Explorer

• Shore Excursion Guidebook : A detailed guide to the best activities and sights at popular cruise destinations.
• Waterproof Exploration Gear : Think snorkeling sets or waterproof bags – essentials for their adventure-filled shore excursions.
• Digital Travel Journal : To record and reflect on each exciting day of exploration.

The Entertainment Enthusiast

• Cruise Show Tickets : Book them a front-row seat to the ship’s Broadway-style show or a special onboard concert.
• Portable Karaoke Microphone : Let them belt out their favorite carols or hits in the privacy of their cabin or during ship-hosted karaoke nights.
• Board Game Set : Classic games with a nautical twist for endless entertainment on sea days.

The Young Mariners (Kids & Teens)

• Ocean-themed Advent Calendar : A countdown filled with tiny maritime surprises, perfect for the build-up to Christmas Day at sea.
• Cruise Ship Building Kit : Engage them with a LEGO or similar model ship set they can assemble during downtime.
• Underwater Camera : For capturing vibrant marine life during snorkeling or diving excursions.

Amidst the festive hustle and bustle, it’s the thoughtfully curated gifts that strike a chord. By aligning presents with the unique passions and interests of each cruiser, you’re not just gifting objects, but memorable moments and experiences.

As the ship’s bell chimes on Christmas morning, and the azure waves shimmer in festive spirit, your gifts will be the cherry on top of an unforgettable holiday voyage.

FAQs on Cruise Gift Ideas

When considering cruise gift ideas, many individuals often have queries to ensure their gift is both appropriate and appreciated. Here are some of the most common questions related to cruise gift ideas:

• What is a practical gift for someone going on a cruise? People often seek gifts that the recipient can actually use during their trip. Items such as waterproof bags, portable chargers, or reusable water bottles are popular practical choices.
• Are there restrictions on what gifts I can bring onboard a cruise ship? It’s essential to know if certain items might be prohibited or restricted onboard, especially things like alcohol or oversized items. Make sure to review the common items that are prohibited on cruises prior to purchasing your gift!
• What gifts are best for cruise ship cabin decorations? With many cruisers celebrating special occasions onboard, decoration items that are easy to put up and take down. Magnetic decorations or door banners are some of the best options offering plenty of configuration and personalization for the special occasion!
• Can I purchase gifts or experiences on the cruise ship on behalf of someone else? Yes! There are plenty of ways you can purchase gifts during your cruise vacation. For example, you can surprise your loved ones with pre-booked excursions, spa treatments, or dining experiences.
• What are popular cruise-related keepsake gifts? Keepsake items, such as custom cruise itinerary maps, engraved jewelry, or photo books, are often in demand as gifts that capture the memories of the trip.
• Are there gift shops on cruise ships? Most of the main-stream cruise lines (Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, etc.) offer gift shops aboard many of their popular cruise ships. Expect to see cruise-related apparel, keep sakes, and souvenirs from some of the cruise ports.
• How do I ensure the gift I give is suitable for the cruise destination? Depending on the cruise’s itinerary – whether it’s tropical, Alaskan, Mediterranean, etc. – you will want to make sure your gift is appropriate for the location. If you are worried yours may not be a good fit, opt for a cruise experience gift, like an onboard package, shore excursion, or souvenir from in port.
• Are there digital or electronic gift options suitable for cruisers? Yes! There are plenty of digital/electronic cruise gift options including cruise planners, eBooks, digital subscriptions, and apps tailored for cruise travelers.
• What are unique or out-of-the-box cruise gift ideas? For those wanting to gift something less conventional, they often seek ideas that are off the beaten path. Some ideas include ocean sound wave art, ship-in-a-bottle DIY kit, and a portable sea salt maker. For more, check out our section up above which highlights the most unique cruise gift ideas.
• Can I purchase and send a gift to someone already onboard a cruise ship? Some cruise lines will allow you to send surprise gifts, like a bottle of wine or a special treat, to someone already sailing. Make sure to double check with the cruise line for further details.

Remember, while these are some common questions, the best cruise gift ideas often consider the personal preferences and needs of the recipient. Taking the time to understand what the cruiser might want or need will make the gift even more special.

Planning Away

42 Cruise Gift Ideas (The Best Gifts For Cruise Lovers!)

Are you looking for the best gifts for cruise lovers?  Seriously, there are so many people who are obsessed with cruising! Friends and family members will love these cruise gift ideas.

We have caught the cruise fever! We went on our first cruise this year and already have one booked for next year!   Cruising is fun and one of the easiest vacations to plan! 

In this post, we are going to focus on gifts for people who go on cruises all the time, gifts for someone going on a cruise for the first time, and basically all of the practical and essential cruise gifts anyone would need.  

I hope this post will help give you the best cruise gift ideas for all of those cruise lovers in your life. 

Let's start with cruise gifts that would make great Christmas or Birthday cruise presents. (We will get to practical cruise gifts a little later.)

If you want to save this information for later be sure to pin this to Pinterest. 

This post contains affiliate links (Including Amazon) that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you . 

1. Christmas Cruise Ornaments

For all of those cruise lovers out there, the perfect cruise presents for Christmas could be as simple as an ornament. 

Christmas ornaments are one of my favorite things to buy all year round when I travel to different places.   If you are looking for a specific Christmas gift for cruisers this is a great option.  

Holiday-Themed Cruise Presents

There is also some really awesome holiday-themed cruise presents you can check out on Etsy.  We love shopping locally but you will have to plan ahead because Etsy does take longer to ship than Amazon! 

This is a good option for gift ideas for cruisers.

2. Shirts for Your Cruise

I love matching shirts! If you are looking for some pre-cruise gift ideas shirts are perfect. This cruise gift idea will be a hit! If you or someone you know are going on a cruise soon this is one of the best gifts for cruise lovers.

Custom Cruise Shirts

There are so many great options.  One thing I really love about Etsy is that you can customize your shirts.  You can put everyone's name that is going and the year.  These shirts are usually inexpensive you can check the price here .  If you want personalized cruise gifts, this is perfect!

3. Cruise Ship Mugs

Cruise ship mugs are great gifts for cruisers who do not have a cruise planned but love all the memories they have made so far.  Every time they look at their mug it will bring them joy and make them happy! 

Thoughtful Gifts for Cruisers 

Having a fun mug is a perfect cruise gift idea that is practical for everyday use but also just simple, not too expensive, and very thoughtful.  

4. Cruise Tumblers

A water tumbler or water bottle makes great gifts for people who go on cruises.  Many people like to have water on hand while cruising.  You do not want to get dehydrated.

They also are very practical while you are on vacation or just at home making them the perfect gift for cruise lovers.  The Stanley Tumbler is one of the hottest items on Instagram right now.  Everyone has them! I personally still like the Hydro Flask but it is not as “cool”.

Customizable Water Tumblers

Customizing is the best part of this cruise gift! There are so many cute ways to decorate water bottles with cruise-themed vinyl. I love these personalized cruise gifts!  

5. Cruise Ship Art

If you have been on cruises you will know that sometimes there are art shows on board but that might not be the best cruise gift to give someone because I'm sure the price tag is a little higher.  

Cruise Art Décor for the Home

A few options for gifts for people who go on cruises are paintings, photographs, and artwork.  There are some great options online .  You could also take a photo from a past cruise and use Shutterfly and print and frame it. 

6. Cruise Ship Décor

Home décor is the perfect gift for cruise lovers.   

My Favorite Cruise Gift Idea

I think the signs that count down till your next cruise are the perfect gifts for cruisers.  It is so cute!  In fact, I am going to buy it for my cruise-loving parents.  They seriously cruise over 5-6 times a year! This will be useful! 

Another cute option for a post-cruise gift is a “ cardholder ”  This is a little place to put past cruise ship cards in.  

Cruise home décor is so fun and the perfect cruise present for cruise lovers. 

7. Cruise Picture Frames

Another great home décor item is a picture frame . A lot of times on cruises there will be professional photographers ready to take your picture.  I am sure your friends who are cruise lovers have a few that are laying around.

Display the Fun Times

A picture frame is a great present to help them display all the fun times they have had.  These make perfect gifts for Caribbean lovers because you can always find a beautiful spot to take a picture! 

8. Cruise Excursion Bags

Are you ready for the best cruise essential gifts?  An excursion bag is a perfect gift for cruisers. 

Gift Ideas for Cruisers

If you have never been on a cruise, then listen up.  As you check-in, your luggage is taken and will arrive at your cabin.  Whatever you think you might need until your baggage arrives should go in a carry-on beach bag.  

Not only is a bag great for boarding the cruise ship but also perfect for shore excursions .  When you go on shore excursions it is nice to have a bag to keep your stuff. 

If you are looking for gifts for someone who cruises all the time this is perfect. 

9. Cruise Ship Essentials

If you need a gift for someone going on a cruise, these are the cruise essentials gifts that are ultra-practical. 

Cruise Essentials Gifts

Lanyard cruise gifts.

A cruise lanyard is a great way to keep track of your room key/ID card.  You need this card to not only get into your room but to enter/exit the ship for excursions. 

Power Strip Cruise Gifts

An extra power strip is super practical.  I didn't really notice a shortage of plug-ins on my last cruise but maybe if you are on an older ship this would be handy. 

Magnetic Hooks Cruise Gifts

Magnetic hooks are awesome to save space and hang up whatever you need to.  You can also get a shoe holder to store different items as well. 

Waterproof Items for Cruise Gifts

Another really practical MUST-HAVE is a waterproof phone case .  I love these. I take them on every beach vacation.  I want my phone, so I can use the camera!!!  These cases keep them safe from water.   Another great option is a waterproof waist strap . 

Towel Bands for Cruise Gifts

Towel bands are like the coolest thing ever.  You can always lay your towel on a beach chair but it falls, this cool contraption keeps your towel in place.  It is perfect to claim your spot on the pool deck. 

More Practical Cruise Gift Ideas

All of these items might be great to add to a cruise care package.  You could also add your cruise lover's favorite book , walkie-talkies if there is no cell reception or a portable charger for a phone. These are also great cruise gift basket ideas.  I have a few more ideas I will share in a minute. 

10. Cruise Ship Jewelry

If you are looking for cruise gifts for women, jewelry is always a win.  Now there are two thoughts.

Formal Night

One thought is if your cruise has a formal night and you are looking to buy someone something fancy and stylish.  You can always go to a jeweler or even Sams has some great options. 

Trendy Jewelry 

The other thought is simple cruise-themed gift bracelets or earrings you can wear anytime.  These are fun little cruise gifts! 

11. Cruise Swim Suit Cover Ups

You can never have too many swimsuit coverups on a cruise.  Seriously! These would be perfect options for cruise gifts for women. 

The Best Cruise Gifts For Women

There are so many cute options! It is nice to have swimsuit cover-ups for all of the shore excursions. Plus, just the time you walk from your room to the pool deck.   

I actually loved having a cute swimsuit cover-up at our stop at Royal Caribbean's Coco Cay.   It was nice to get off the ship and be ready to swim. 

12. Beach Hats

You know someone that just loves to relax in the sun!!! Beach hats are perfect cruise gifts for the cruise lover! 

Personalized Cruise Gifts – Beach Hats

There are lots of options for beach hats. You can go more sporty with a ball cap or fancy with a big beach hat.  These can be personalized cruise gifts. If you know someone getting married, there are some cute options.

13. Cruise Gifts - Shoes

If you are brave enough to buy someone shoes, there are some good-better and-best options for cruises.  

Good-Better-Best

If you are going on a cruise that has a lot of tropical port stops you will probably want a good pair of flip-flop s , water shoes or Keens .  

For casual walking the deck a nice pair of Birkenstocks or other easy-to-put-on shoes is nice to have.  

The easiest shoe to give as a cruise present is water shoes .  A good cruise gift for men is Keens .  Unless you really know the cruise lovers' style casual shoes are going to be much much harder to buy. 

Our Experience

We used our water shoes at the Royal Caribbean's private island Perfect Day at Cococay , where we went on a Cococay excursion to the Thrill Water Park . I would have been really sad if we didn't have water shoes! 

14. Cruise Presents - Beach Gear

Sometimes it is nice to bring your own beach gear on a cruise.  I love having my snorkel set .  I know you can rent them but I prefer my own.  They do take up space so some people might not want to bring them on a cruise.  But if you are like me, I think it would be a great cruise gift! 

Shore Excursion Cruise Gifts

Some other fun items that might be helpful for your shore excursions are sand coasters and sand removal products . After a fun day on the beach, you will want to clean up before heading back to the ship.  This makes a great gift for cruise lovers

15. Cruise Gift Packing Essentials

Packing essentials are great gifts for cruisers.  Everyone has to pack and it is nice to have fun toiletry bags and the right items to pack for a cruise! 

Packing Cruise Essentials Gifts

There are some great packing cubes that will help your cruise lovers stay organized.  there are also a lot of nice carry-on luggage options .  

16. Electronic Cruise Gifts

If know a cruise lover that would love an electronic cruise gift. I have a few ideas.

Go Pro Cruise Gift

A Go-pro is so cool to take with you on all of your shore excursions.  They are a little pricey but worth it.  I bought a knock-off and it was lame.  It didn't work. So I recommend going with the better product.  

Watch Cruise Gift

Another nice thing to have is an Apple Watch or a Garmin Watch .  Want to know why?  It is so cool to see how many steps you take on a cruise ship.  I seriously was hitting over 25,000 steps a day.  It was awesome! 

Airpods Cruise Gift

If you know someone who loves music or listens to books on audio AirPods are a great gift for cruisers. 

Binoculars are not an electronic in the traditional sense, but they are awesome gadgets to have on a cruise ship. 

17. Cruise Gift Basket Ideas

If you want to make this cruise gift really special, wrapping it up in a nice cruise gift basket will be perfect!  I am going to put a list together and you can click on and order everything off of Amazon and be done! 

Cruise Gift Basket Items

• Main Item –   Cruise Ship Shirt, Cruise Home Décor , or Picture Frame,  
• Waterproof Phone Protectors
• Sand Remover
• Cruise Lanyard
• Candy in these Bags

Cruise ship gift baskets are fun gifts for someone going on a cruise.  It is all about presentation. You can seriously put anything in it!

18. The Best Cruise Gift a CRUISE

Do you want to give the best cruise gift EVER….Giving someone a cruise vacation would be awesome. It would be very generous of you for sure! 

The most common times people will gift cruises are for honeymoons, birthday trips , family reunions or just wanting to go on a warm winter vacation with friends.  

Need Help Deciding When to Go on a Cruise?

I have created a really cool breakdown of the best times to book your cruise. by month and area. (Caribbean, Europe, Alaska….)  If you want a copy I can email it to you! 

Book A Cruise 

I highly recommend going through Priceline f or most cruises.  They typically offer more onboard spending credit.  If you are going on a Disney Cruise you should book with a Disney specialist like GetAwayToday .   They know Disney! 

Surprise Cruise Gift Ideas

If you are looking for ideas to surprise someone with a cruise. There are some fun goodie bags you can fill with “ cruise tickets “ or you could have a puzzle custom-made that says “ Surprise we are going on a cruise!”  

This year our family reunion is was on the Allure of the Seas cruise ship.  We have talked about it for a long time.  We wanted to give everyone time to save up and not have to worry when we go.  

Grandma and Grandpa did a big reveal on Thanksgiving.  They had cruise ship-shaped cookies made.  There were cute boarding passes and money to go towards our cruise.  Grandma actually booked everything ahead of time so all of our cabins were close together.  

The kids do not know which cruise or when so the surprise will be for the kids!  My kids had been on the Oasis of the Seas so they new how much fun this surprise was going to be. 

42 Cruise Gifts Ideas

#1-21 basic essentials cruise gifts.

• Cruise Excursion Bag
• Extra Power Strip
• Magnetic Hooks
• Water Proof Case 
• Water Proof Waist Strap
• Swimsuit Cover Up
• Toiletry Bag  
• Seasick Motion Patches
• Laundry Bag
• Passport Holder
• Water Shoes
• Shoe Holder
• Carry On Luggage
• Packing Shoes
• Snorkel Set

#22-30 Cruise Gifts for the Home

• Cruise Christmas Ornament
• Cruise Ship Mugs
• Cruise Tumblers
• Cruise Ship Art
• Cruise Home Décor
• Count Down to Cruise 
• Picture Frames  
• Post Cruise Gift (Card Holder)
• Sand Coasters

#31- 36 Cruise Ship Gift Basket Ideas

• Cruise Ship Shirts
• Cruise Ship Goodie Bags
• Cruise Ship Journal
• Walkie Talkies (If there is no cell reception)

#37-42 Cruise Ship Electronic Gifts

• Apple Watch
• Garmin Watch
• Portable Charger

Gifts for Cruise Lovers Recap

Wow, that is a lot of fun ideas for gifts for cruise lovers! Now, I want to go on a cruise.  I hope this post helps you buy the perfect cruise gift for your friends and family members.  

Good Luck on your quest on finding the best cruise gift for cruise lovers! 

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22 Comments

What cool ideas! I especially love the cruise signs and the countdown blocks until the next cruise!

I thought that was so cute!

What a fun gift guide! I loved all of the cruise ship gift ideas and so many would be the perfect gift for anyone who not only loves cruises but nautical-themed items too! I have a few sailing aficionados in the family, so I’ll be bookmarking this to remember some fun gifts for them!

These are all great cruise gift ideas! So many are really thoughtful, great ideas! We enjoy cruising too! My favorite item that I would be lost without are the cruise ship beach towel clips for holding your space on the deck chairs! Our first cruise was learning curve without them!

They are really cool!

I love all the great gift ideas for sea loving people! I definitely see somethings I can get for my friends that love cruises.

Great selection of gift ideas. I many of this would work for beach lovers too. I really liked the cruise wall art ones, they looked so amazing on the wall. Thanks for sharing.

For sure Beach or Cruise!

What a helpful gift guide for those that love to cruise! My parents are about to embark on one and return just before the holidays, so this has given me lots of ideas for their Christmas list. I especially like the tote bags.

That is perfect timing!

What a great guide for cruise lovers. Some ideas are fun and cool.

perfect for the cruise lover!

What a fun gift guide for all the cruiser’s or nautical buffs out there! Love the practical one’s and being the beach lover that I am, love the towel clips!

Those are awesome!

Such fun gifts for those who like to go on a cruise. I have never been and doubt I will go since I am terrified of boats and ships, but I still use gift ideas. They are extremely versatile. Really like sunhats and swim coverups.

What a wonderful list of gifts for those who cruise! I’ve yet to go on a cruise. Sure how to one day.

They are really fun!

The gift ideas for cruisers are amazing! We loved the cruise tumblers. Thank you for sharing.

They are so cute!

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15 Perfect Christmas Gifts For Cruise Lovers (2023 Edition)

When it comes to that person on your gift list that loves cruising, what can you get them? The most obvious answer is a cruise, but that’s often way too much money to spend on a single gift. 

Luckily, there are all sorts of fun gifts for cruise lovers that they will be thrilled to receive. To give you some ideas, we’ve rounded up a list of fun and unique gifts that anyone who loves to cruise is sure to like.

Note: The links to Amazon used below are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

Nautical Bracelet with an Anchor Clasp

When we found this bracelet, it immediately caught our eye. Featuring a thick nylon band with a metal anchor clasp, it’s a cool way to show off your love for the sea. One thing to note is that it runs a little small, so it may not fit larger wrists according to some reviews. $10 on Amazon .

Bookmark Made With Cruise Deck Wood

By far the most unique gift idea for a person who likes to cruise. This bookmark is made with actual teak decking from the Carnival Triumph/Sunrise. We can’t think of a better accessory to give an avid cruiser who wants something a little special that connects them with cruising even when they aren’t on the ship. $42 on Etsy .

Easy-Roll Luggage

Personalized Travel Map

It’s a cute and thoughtful way to remember a special cruise. These maps are personalized based on the actual trip that you’ve taken. Put your homeport, all your stops, and more to create a one-of-a-kind memory of your trip. Prices vary based on size and type of print. Available on Etsy starting at $32 .

Personalized Cruise Ship Ornament

Want to remember that special cruise every year? This personalized Christmas ornament is just the thing. Hang it on your tree and you’ll always have a cute reminder of the warm breeze in your face during the cold winter season. Measures approximately 3.5 inches in width. $13 on Etsy .

Cruise Ship Model

This is the most intricate ship model we’ve ever seen and a great display piece for a living room or office. It measures more than three feet long and comes with a display base and name plate. You can even get it with lights inside so that it is illuminated at light. There are several different ships available, including more from Royal Caribbean, as well as Norwegian and Disney, so you can pick your favorite one. Starting at $449 on SavyBoat.com

Waterproof Valuables Case

Whether you are hanging by the pool or don’t want to leave your valuables on the beach while taking a dip, a waterproof case is a must-have. Use it to keep your phone, wallet, keys, and anything else dry as a bone so you don’t have to worry just because you want to go swimming. You can get two bags for under $10 on Amazon .

Slip-Resistant Flip Flops

Quick-Dry Mesh Bag

Have a couple of towels, a change of clothes, your hat, sunscreen, bottle of water, and a book? Whew! You’re going to need somewhere to put all that stuff as you head to the beach or the pool. This oversized mesh bag is perfect. It’s lightweight and will dry fast even if it gets a little wet. $9 on Amazon .

Cruise Gift Cards

Want to simply give the gift of a cruise? There’s no simpler way than by purchasing a gift card. You can get them in denominations from $100 to $500, giving you the option to purchase several to cover an entire cruise or just chip in on a trip. We’d also suggest seeing about discounted cards via AARP to save some money .

Carnival Gear & Merch

Have someone that’s a Carnival fanatic? Did you know the cruise line has an entire online store dedicated to all sorts of goodies? From t-shirts to totes, from ornaments to hoodies, there’s something for everyone. You can shop here and find the perfect gift .

Upcoming Cruise Gifts

Maybe the person you’re buying for is about to head out on a cruise? In that case, major lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival offer the ability to buy gifts for the cruise. From room decorations to alcohol to branded merchandise and lots more, you can get it all.

If sailing Carnival, you want to check out the FunShops . If sailing Royal Caribbean, you’ll want to visit the online store here .

Stocking Stuffer: Motion Sickness Medicine

Stocking Stuffer: Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray

Have other Christmas gifts that you think are perfect for cruise lovers? Let us know in the comments below.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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These are the 15 best cruise gifts for the holidays

The winter holidays are almost here. Every year, I vow to start shopping early, but I'd say I'm only successful about half the time. If, like me, you have avid cruisers on your gift-giving list and appreciate ways to make shopping less stressful — especially if you've waited until the last minute -- you'll want to check out these recommendations.

From stocking stuffers to big-ticket items, these are the best gifts for cruise lovers.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Stocking stuffers

Lanyards are hotly debated cruise accessories. Some passengers swear by them for keeping track of their cruise cards, while others insist they'd never be caught wearing one.

Whether you include one for serious use or as a gag gift, they're affordable and compact enough to fit in a stocking. Plus, they come in nearly limitless colors, styles and clasp variations. Now, all that's left to do is decide whether the giftee would prefer a nautical theme or something with a bit more bling .

If you're new to cruising, you might not know that the walls in most ships' cabins are metal, which means they're magnet-friendly.

Passengers use simple pushpin-style magnets to keep everything from spa flyers to shore excursion tickets organized and easily accessible — just like hanging important reminders on the refrigerator at home. Magnetic hooks are also a solid option for anyone who might need extra space to hang bathing suits, towels, bathrobes or workout clothes. (Just be sure to choose a type that can handle the weight.)

Bathroom spray

It's not pleasant to consider, but anyone who has shared a bathroom in close quarters knows how embarrassing it can be. If the person whose stocking you're filling has a sense of humor, you'd be remiss not to include a bottle of scented toilet spray.

There are several brands on the market, including Poo-Pourri and Squatty Potty's Pootanicals , which will make sure everything comes out roses (or lavender or citrus). Bonus: The bottles are small enough to comply with the TSA's carry-on liquid restrictions.

Highlighters

Although many cruise lines are moving away from printed daily schedules and, instead, giving passengers access via cellphone apps, it's still possible for passengers to request physical copies if they prefer something tangible.

Because the printouts are often jam-packed with things to do, highlighters are useful for marking off the most appealing activities. For bonus points, get the recipient a pack with several colors, which will allow different members of the travel party to indicate their preferred pastimes on the same sheet.

Know someone who's got a cruise coming up? Snag them a cruise line gift card for as little or as much money as you'd like. They can put the value toward their onboard spending, which will help to offset purchases like alcohol, specialty dining, spa treatments and shore excursions.

If the person you're buying for doesn't yet have a sailing planned, they can use the gift card toward a new booking with whichever line the gift card is for. (Cards in various denominations are offered by several major lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival, Holland America, Princess and Celebrity. Disney Cruise Line accepts general Disney gift cards for bookings and onboard spending.) Or, if you know they have to fly to their port of embarkation, consider an airline gift card.

Don't forget: These are the best credit cards for gift card purchases .

Price-conscious presents

Magnetic board

If the cruiser in your life is sentimental, a magnetic board is a great present that will help them to display their keycards from each sailing. Post-voyage, they can attach some magnetic tape to the back and stick it to the board.

Many of the options come framed with wood or metal, making for stylish decor. Plus the shape — generally square or rectangular — is easy to wrap.

Portable charger

Anyone with a social media account knows how tempting it is to share travel photos at every turn. Unfortunately, this leaves any mobile battery screaming for some juice, especially after a long day lazing on the beach or exploring in port. With many cruise lines leaning heavily on mobile apps for everything from daily schedules and dinner reservations to muster drills, even sea days can drain batteries quickly.

Cruisers who just can't seem to disconnect, even on vacation, will find a portable charger invaluable. They're available in a range of sizes, colors and price points, but decent ones will set you back anywhere from $50 to $100 and can charge multiple devices.

Alcohol camouflage

Although I don't recommend sneaking alcohol onto a cruise ship, many cruisers still try to save a few bucks by bringing their own booze. Apart from generally not being allowed, it's tacky. Plus, if it's detected and confiscated, it won't be returned, so it will actually end up costing you more when you combine the price of the contraband alcohol with any drinks subsequently purchased onboard.

Still, if you know someone who absolutely insists on skirting the rules, they will surely welcome a set of plastic liquid bags with caps — known by many as rum runners — or faux toiletry bottles , which allow tipples to easily masquerade in checked bags as shampoo, mouthwash and more.

Travel tracker

The frequent cruisers on your list will love the chance to show off where they've been with a present that tracks their travels — and I'm not talking about some high-tech gizmo that will cost a fortune.

Travel maps are all the rage right now. They range from scratch-off poster versions and color-in globes to corkboard wall hangings where you can mark destinations with pins . I've even seen larger-scale wooden versions that take up entire walls, giving wanderers the ability to check off each location with markers, paint or chalk.

Gadget organizer

As modern cruisers know, travel these days is almost impossible without gadgets. Whether they're using a cellphone to scan a flight boarding pass or a tablet to read a novel by the pool, it means wrangling cell phones, tablets, laptops, camera equipment and, of course, chargers.

Help them keep it all neatly organized and in one place with a number of packable pouches that offer zip pockets, elastic loops, and lots of other nooks and crannies for storing everything they'll need to stay plugged in when they sail. Want to add an extra-special touch? Include a spare phone charging cable; they'll be glad you stowed it in there when they inevitably forget to bring their usual one.

Seaworthy splurges

If you know a cruiser who's also a bibliophile, gift them some holiday cheer with a shiny, new Kindle or Nook that they can take on their next voyage to save space. (Nobody needs to lug several pounds of heavy books on vacation.)

If you're feeling extra generous, you can include a gift card that will cover the purchase of their first title or two.

Know a certain seafarer who's in need of a new set of luggage? You can find a decent selection of styles, colors and brands — including some of TPG's favorites — at a range of price points.

Is the recipient more of a carry-on-only traveler? If so, TPG can also recommend some formidable options . (My personal favorite is Away's standard-size carry-on bag — not the larger carry-on, which doesn't fit in some overhead bins.) In this case, you might also want to consider accessories like packing cubes or small liquid containers to complete the present. Fun tip: Forgo a traditional "to/from" holiday tag, and attach a luggage tag instead.

Want to shop local? Check out a small luggage retailer near you .

For the active cruiser who has just about everything, consider a GoPro or similar action camera to help them score footage of their experience on the onboard waterslide or on a crazy zipline adventure in port.

Action cams often come with a hefty price tag to start, but some of the add-ons — memory cards, head straps or gimbals — might also be worth including.

Car service or private jet

If you're looking to go big with your gift and you have funds to work with, consider reserving a car service or private flight for your already-booked cruise-loving friend or family member this year. To start, all you need is their name and departure date (and a pickup location for a car service), and you can make sure they arrive at their destination in pampered style.

Want a good place to start? Check out semi-private flights with Aero . Keep in mind that some cruise lines, such as Virgin Voyages and Silversea, already include car service to the embarkation port in some of their fares.

This one is completely obvious as one of the best gifts for cruisers, but there is no more relevant present than, well, a cruise. It's a gift that's sure to impress — but only if you know the recipient's preferred travel style. Certain factors — such as the line, ship and destination you pick — can make or break a cruise experience, so you'll want to choose carefully.

A cruise itself is, of course, a large purchase, but you could book it using points and miles , or earn points by booking through a portal, such as United Cruises or the American Express Cruise Privileges Program. If you're not familiar with how cruises work, you should learn the basics here before committing:

• How to get a deal on a cruise
• A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line
• Which cruise brand is best? A guide to the most popular lines
• Tips for booking your first cruise
• When you should use a travel agent

For even more gift ideas, check out our list of quirky but useful cruise must-haves .

How to maximize your winter holiday spending

Do you have tons of points and miles stored away? A quick bit of research can help you use them to buy presents for everyone on your list .

If you're looking to earn points, rather than burn them, brush up on the season's latest credit card offers, which can help you maximize the return on your spending.

For example, through Dec. 25, you can score up to five points per dollar spent on Amazon purchases when you use an eligible American Express card, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express . (If you don't have a qualifying Amex, there are other cards — including the Chase Freedom Unlimited and the Discover it® Cash Back – that will give you the best bang for your buck when you shop at Amazon .)

The information for the Discover it Cash Back has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Or, depending on where you plan to shop and how much you're planning to spend on presents this year, perhaps it's time to apply for a new card. The Citi Premier® Card , which has a modest $95 annual fee and is currently offering 60,000 bonus points when you make $4,000 worth of purchases in the first three months of account opening, will reward you with a generous welcome bonus (see rates and fees ). Another good option is the Amex Platinum, which will give you 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases the first six months of card membership.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Cruise Gifts - 21 Brilliant Gift Ideas for Cruise Passengers

Cruise gifts are a great way create excitement for an upcoming sailing.

These gift ideas will instantly upgrade their experience.

We've surveyed hundreds of thousands of cruisers. Most agree on one thing. A few small items can have a significant impact on the cruising experience. The items below are the most frequently recommended cruise accessories.

Use the button above to pin this page to your cruise packing list board!

Why give cruise gifts?

Create Anticipation: Everyone knows the saying, "anticipation is half the fun." It's true. We love having something to look forward to. A cruise is on the top of that list. Cruise gifts are a great way to spark that excitement. A set of lanyards at the six month countdown. A set of luggage tags at three months. A travel tote bag at a month. All are great ways to build anticipation.

Cruse Agent "Thank You" Gift Ideas: Cruisers have many options when selecting an agent. They're plopping down a significant investment for their vacation. The agent receives a healthy commission from our business. We never feel like we're owed a "thank you." But, we're always very grateful when our agent sends a nice gift to show her appreciation. These small cruise gift ideas can go a long way in terms of "customer loyalty."

To Say, "You're Going on a Cruise:" She may be a bit confused when opening up a set of cruise lanyards. She may start putting the pieces together with the cruise cabin nightlight. Once she opens that last envelope with her cruise ticket, she should have a pretty good idea what's going down.

Treat Yourself: Sometimes (ok, often times), we like to treat ourselves to something nice. These cruise gifts don't need to be for anyone else. You deserve it. A few small accessories can have a significant impact on your cruise experience.

Regardless of your reasoning, here are the best cruise gift ideas of 2021.

Cruise Gifts - 19 Great Gift Ideas

Cruise Lanyards are on the top of our Cruise Gifts Ideas list. If you've cruised, you'll notice that everyone wears these around the ship. Why lanyards? Cruisers are constantly on the go. From cabin to pool to port and back. Throughout their vacation, they'll need to keep the necessities safe and close. A waterproof badge holder fits cruise key cards, cash, and credit cards perfectly. The lucky recipient will never lose their essentials with this great gift!

Cruise cabins are tiny. They're also very dark at night. Those midnight trips to the restroom require a little illumination to avoid damaged shins. The lights in the cabin, however, will wake up everyone in the room. This cruise cabin night light offers the perfect solution. It's motion activated to light up with activity. And it can be pointed in any direction to eliminate cranky spouses waking up with each trip. It also offers a magnetic base to stick onto cabin walls with ease!

Does your cruise buddy love to take selfies? We're guessing the answer is

This must have cruise item is on the top of all cruisers' packing lists. Cruise cabins typically have just two plugs. Yet we all have phones, laptops, cameras, e-readers, and countless other devices requiring constant juice. Unfortunately, any old power strip won't work. They must be

She'll need a handy tote bag for trips back and forth to the pool and port. Carry towels, snacks, reading material, and a change of clothes easily. The travel tote folds up into the palm of her hand when not in use. It's also ideal for port visits. She'll need extra space for those souvenirs. This offers more than enough space for any new trinkets! It's machine washable and extra durable for many cruises to come.

Give the gift of guaranteed luggage. We've had our bags lost on a cruise. It's a terrilbe way to start your cruise vacation. That's why these cruise luggage tags are a favorite gift for travel agents to send their clients. The cruise lines suggest that you print your issued e-tags and to STAPLE them onto your luggage! No thank you. We arrive in style and with the assurance our luggage does too. Click through to find the cruise luggage tags by specific line.

If your cruise gifts recipient has a good sense of humor and fondness for boat cocktails, this is a must have item. Muster drills are a

Do you have a nerdy friend who loves drinking and cruises? Here's a funny cruise t-shirt to combine those passions in one ridiculous display. He or she will enjoy countless smiles with every wear. This is a must have for the social cruiser in your life!

Cruise Nail Strips are a great way to stand out on a cruise. These Carnival Cruise inspired nail strips feature nautical designs in red, white and blue. They're guaranteed to get some attention from passerbys on the ship and multiple daily compliments. The nail strips are incredibly easy to apply. They're vibrant colors and should last for the entire cruise.

Does the cruiser in your life need some cabin organization? If so, the tops our list of cruise gifts. Easily organize your cruise tiny cruise cabin to keep clutter free all week. The cruise hack here is to use

Magnet hooks pair well with the cruise organizer seen above. These attach to most cruise walls as they're made of steel. Stick them anywhere throughout the cruise cabin. The magnetic hooks are extra strength to hold wet towels, organizers, purses, or other. Check any

If you haven't seen the

The next few cruise gifts top our packing list for

Ultraviolet light is on the forefront of our nation's fight against virus and illness. This technology is used in our hospitals and now available to take aong anywhere sanitization is needed. In a few minutes, the user can dissinfect items like an iphone, key card, toothbrush and more. Additionally, it comes with a handy phone charger. It sanitizes and charges at the same time! This is one of our favorite post-pandemic cruise hacks. It'll make for an amazing cruise gift for the health-conscious cruiser in your life.

This cruise gift is even more portable than the sanitizer box shown above. Now they'll have the power of ultraviolet dissenfection in their pocket or purse. It's battery operated so does not need a plug or adapter of any sort. Wave it over any item needed sanitization and it kills pathogens within 30 seconds of application. Cruise ships have really upped their game when it comes to health and safety. But, this provides one additional step of protection.

All of the mentioned items are cruise gift ideas to help improve the experience. This item is a bit unique. If you're actually surprising someone with a cruise as a gift, then this product is essential. It's the most fun way to surprise a lucky recipient. The front reads, __Oh ship__. The inside reads, __You're going on a cruise__! We've used this to surprise others a couple times and it's always an amazing (and hilarious) reaction.

We like to call this one the

Cruise Door Decorations are a must have item for that extra level of personalization. Every cabin door is identical. This can get extra confusing after a long happy hour. These sticky frames easily apply to the stateroom door with any printed decoration. They're also great for inside the cruise cabin to display daily itineraries, food menus, and more. We like to post a fun new daily message showing our hometown and reason for cruising. It always gets a few fun comments from our ship mates.

Towel bands are an amazing new invention and one of our favorite cruise gifts. Old school cruisers love towel clips. These are bulky and often break. Towel bands are the hottest ticket. These wrap around beach or pool chairs to keep towels firmly attached without blowing into the ocean. They also offer a convenient way to find your cruise setup amongs a sea of similar towels and chairs!

Water and smartphones go together like peanut butter and horseradish. Unfortunately, the two meet frequently on cruise ships. Everyone is constantly handling their phones and there's no shortage of water to be found. With the new safety protocols, phones will also replace key cards. This phone pouch and lanyard set solves all these issues. They'll have the device handy and safe for frequent and dry use!

Cruise customers are often disappointed that they don't receive a physical ticket after booking. They want something to touch. Something that they can post to their refrigerator. Fortunately, we have the solution to this as well. Gangwaze offers a free cruise ticket template. Use our widget to customize and download your cruise ticket in minutes. You can then print it out and include it with any of the cruise gifts mentioned above.

If you're thinking of getting cruise gifts for friends or family, these are wonderful ideas. We hope you find the perfect item.

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Gifts for Cruise Lovers: 80 Awesome Gifts They Actually Want

by katie | Dec 11, 2023 | Featured , Travel Tips | 7 comments

Are you looking for the best gifts for cruise lovers? Keep reading for 80 gift ideas that are perfect for the cruise lover in your life.

The Best Gifts for Cruise Lovers

Gift giving can be hard, but stress no more! There are plenty of fun and unique gift ideas for the avid cruiser. Whether you are shopping for gifts for the holiday season, a birthday, or just because, this list has 80 of the best cruise gift ideas that the person on your gift list is sure to love.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you. Please see my  disclosure policy  for details .

Unique Gift Ideas for Any Cruise Addict

One of the best parts about a cruise is the excitement and anticipation in the weeks leading up to the cruise vacation itself. These gifts are fun gifts that can be used any time of year to help get the cruiser in your life jazzed about their upcoming trip.

1. Cruise Fund Jar

A cruise fund jar is a fun way to help your frequent cruiser save up for their next cruise . The savings could be put towards a drink package, spa appointment, or even shore excursions.

2. Wine Tumbler

These cute wine tumblers are just as fun to use before the trip, as they are to use during the cruise . They are insulated and come with cute sayings- they would be perfect to use on the pool deck!

3. Fun Socks

Who doesn’t love a pair of fun socks?! These are super cozy and come in so many different options- everything from socks with funny sayings to nautical-themed socks.  

4. Coffee Mugs

Coffee mugs are great gift ideas for cruisers who also happen to be coffee lovers.

5. Cruise Nail Decals

These nail decals are so fun! I have been known to get my nails done before a trip, and having a nautical themed manicure is such a fun way to get into the spirit of the trip.

Koozies are an awesome gift, that can easily be taken aboard the ship. They would be a perfect gift for everyone going on a group cruise to celebrate something special like the wedding of a best friend or family member.

7. Nautical Theme Cookie Cutters

These cute cookie cutters would be a fun gift, that they would never expect.

8. Cruise Ship Ornament

This beautiful glass-blown ornament, by Old World Christmas, would look beautiful on the tree.

9. Cruise Cabin Door Decoration Set

How fun is this set of cruise cabin decorations? It would be a great gift for a first-time cruiser or someone celebrating a special occasion.

Practical Gifts for the Cruise Cabin

Cruise cabins are small. If someone on your gift list is a first-time cruiser, they might not be aware of just how small the cabins are. The items listed below, are what I consider cruise essentials. These gifts are super helpful in making the most out of the space and will help your cruiser create a more relaxing stateroom.

10. Magnetic Hooks

Magnetic hooks are an inexpensive way to keep a cruise ship stateroom organized. They come in handy to hang up wet towels and bathing suits or create extra closet space by using them to hang up purses, belts, and ties. They are one of the most useful gifts on this list.

11. Magnetic Clips

Like magnetic hooks, magnetic clips will help keep the space organized. They are a practical gift that will be well utilized in a cruise cabin. On my last cruise , I used them to hang up important documents like excursion passes, tickets for onboard activities, and other reservations.

12. Laundry Hamper

A pop-up laundry hamper is an excellent item to gift the cruise addict on your list. Dirty laundry will have its own place in the hamper instead of being strewn about the cruise ship cabin.

13. Dry Bag

There are many different uses for a dry bag. I use a waterproof bag to pack my wet bathing suits on travel days. This ensures my dry items stay dry. It would be great for a cruiser who wanted to take advantage of the cruise ship’s hot tub on the final night, without having to worry about how they’d pack the wet swimwear.

14. Alarm Clock

A lot of cruisers love having a travel alarm clock in their cruise staterooms. It eliminates the need to rely on a cell phone to check the time in the middle of the night.

As previously mentioned, cruise cabins are small. The size can also lead to them getting stuffy. A small battery-operated fan will help solve that problem.

16. Over the Door Shoe Organizer

The over-the-door shoe organizer was my personal favorite item I took on my first cruise . The cruise cabin bathroom is tiny and has minimal counter space. We used the shoe organizer for storing all of our toiletries, makeup, etc. It created so much extra space!

17. Non-surge Protected Power Bar

There are very few outlets aboard a cruise ship. Surge protectors will be a lifesaver for making sure all electronics stay charged.

18. Poo-Pouri

One of the most popular items cruisers take, and something that requires no further explanation.

19. Travel Night Light

A travel night light is a necessity for inside cabins, they are pitch black.

20. Folding Travel Mirror

As mentioned previously, the cruise ship bathrooms are small. Only one person can fit in them at a time. This can create a problem if multiple people must get ready at the same time. A folding travel mirror will resolve this problem.

21. Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

So, they might not be essential, but they are a fun gift idea, especially for cruisers going on their honeymoon.

Surprise Gifts to Leave in the Cruise Ship Cabin

A great gift idea that any cruise lover would appreciate, is a surprise gift left in the cruise ship stateroom. To order the gift, you will need to know the cruise ship, sail date, and passenger information. The gifts can be through the cruise line’s online store and delivered on the date you specify. Below are a few thoughtful gift ideas.

22. Wine or Champagne

A bottle of wine or champagne would be the perfect gift to have delivered to a stateroom for a couple celebrating an anniversary or honeymoon. Birthdays or special achievements are also fantastic occasions and worthy of a special bottle of wine or champagne.

23. Specialty Food

There are usually several different options for food related gifts. Cookies and milk would be a fun option for kiddos if offered, or a specialty cheese plate for adults. Anything you choose will be appreciated.

24. Flowers

Another option for surprise gifts would be to have flowers delivered to the stateroom.

25. Stateroom Décor

If the cruiser on your gift list will be celebrating a special occasion or important accomplishment, a great gift would be to have their cruise stateroom decorated. A decorated stateroom would be a huge surprise and add a lot of fun to embarkation day.

Useful Gifts for Cruise Excursions

One of the best parts about a cruise is getting to explore the different ports. Some cruisers opt to explore the destinations on their own, and others like to take part in cruise excursions. The gifts below are great options for cruisers to use off-ship, whether they’re on an arranged tour or on their own.

26. Travel Water Bottle

A travel water bottle will help the cruiser on your gift list save a lot of money. Bottled water does not come free with the cruise fare and is an extra cost cruiser incur. It’s important to stay hydrated on vacation, so a reusable water bottle will come in handy. I highly recommend a Hydro Flask water bottle.

27. Cruise Lanyard

No more digging around a bottomless bag! Cruise hands-free with these cruise lanyards. They are especially helpful for cruisers as they board the ship on embarkation day or after a long day of touring.

28. Water Shoes

Keep those feet safe with water shoes. They are a necessary item to have if any of the cruise excursions include water activities.

29. Travel Sized First Aid Kit

There is a first aid station aboard the ship, but it’s important to have some first aid items available for days spent off the ship too. This little kit will fit perfectly in a day bag.

30. Travel Size Umbrella

We can never predict the weather, and getting caught in the rain unprepared is no fun. A travel-size umbrella is a great gift for any cruiser or traveler.

Luxury Gifts for Cruise Lovers

Sometimes it’s nice to give a gift that is a bit of a splurge item. The items below are a nice mix of luxurious, unique, thoughtful, and perfect for when you want a gift that will really WOW.

31. Kindle Paperwhite

The Kindle Paperwhite is lightweight and portable. It’s one of the best e-readers available and the perfect gift for someone going on a cruise vacation.

32. Digital Camera

There is so much to see and experience on a cruise . Help the cruiser in your life capture their cruise memories by gifting them a digital camera like the Sony RX 100 III.

33. Noise Canceling Headphones

You can’t go wrong with gifting a pair of noise-canceling headphones. They are a bit pricey but worth every penny, especially when flying to the embarkation city.

A GoPro is the perfect gift for an avid cruiser. The GoPro Hero12 is the latest and greatest, featuring enhanced visuals, improved stabilization, and revolutionary HDR. The person on your gift list will be able to capture the sights and sounds on their excursions like never before.

35. Shore Excursions

Gifting someone a shore excursion to remember is the perfect cruise gift idea. You will need to know the name of the ship and the sail date to purchase this gift. I also recommend booking an excursion through the cruise line directly or through a vetted shore excursion company.

36. A Cruise

Yes, this is a splurge gift, but giving the gift of a cruise vacation is something that any cruise aficionado would be deeply thankful to receive. Schedule a call with one of your local travel agents to get pricing and different options. They will help you plan and book the perfect surprise cruise.

Gifts for All Cruisers

The items below would be perfect for any cruiser on your gift list. Some of them are travel essentials, and others are items that will make the cruising experience that much more enjoyable.

37. Portable Lockbox Safe

One issue that cruisers often face is where to store valuables while they are enjoying their excursions. This portable lockbox safe is perfect for keeping small items secure so they can enjoy their time worry-free.

38. Passport Holder

Another great gift idea is a passport holder. More often than not, going on a cruise requires passengers to bring their passports. A passport cover is extra protection for that all-important document. It helps protect against wear and tear and from any liquids being spilled on it. I like how a brightly colored one can help me easily and quickly identify it in my purse.

39. Gift Cards

A gift card is a great gift for anyone who loves to cruise . One option would be to purchase a cruise line-specific gift certificate. You could also purchase gift cards that would come in handy during or for their travel. Below are some great gift card ideas.

• Southwest Airlines
• American Airlines

40. Compression Packing Cubes

I am a big fan of packing cubes and have been for some time now, but the compression packing cubes are on another level. They are so good. First, they keep everything organized. Second, they create even more space than the regular ones. When I travel, I like to use one for each type of clothing I am packing- one cube will be for workout wear, another for casual outfits, a third for dressy outfits, and a fourth for pajamas and undergarments.

The compression packing cubes by Bagail are fantastic. They are at a fantastic price point and come in plenty of colors and different set sizes (4, 5, or 6 pieces). Having different colors is great for family cruisers, each family member can have their own color.

41. Electronic Accessories Organizer

We all have so many electronic devices, and each device has a specific charging cord. Those who cruise often understand the struggle when they find all the cords tangled up into one giant mess. A tech organizer helps keep everything nice and tidy and would be a great gift for any traveling techie. They make it so much easier to access everything and are great space savers too.

42. Hanging Toiletry Bag

My old toiletry bag was a disaster. It was bulky, didn’t have adequate storage space, and wasn’t functional. Then, I was introduced to this bag by Bagsmart. It’s perfect. I can pack more in this toiletry bag than I was in the previous one, and it takes up much less space in my suitcase.

43. Sea Bands

Sea Bands are a cruise necessity. They help prevent motion sickness during cruises or boating excursions.

44. Apple AirTags

I purchased these for a Mediterranean Cruise because I was so concerned about my luggage getting lost and not having my gown for the formal night. Thankfully my luggage arrived as it should, but you can never be too prepared. Personally, I will never travel without them.

45. Stainless Steel Straws

Major cruise lines have pledged to become more environmentally friendly. One way they are doing this is by banning all plastic straws and switching to paper straws or no straws at all. These portable stainless steel straws make a fun gift for cruisegoers.

46. Cruise Luggage Tags

Cruisers have to put cruise line specific luggage tags on their bags before embarkation day. These plastic holders make this process so much easier and eliminate the need for stapling or using tape.

Norwegian Princess Royal Caribbean Celebrity Carnival Holland America

47. Waterproof Phone Case

These waterproof phone cases are perfect for keeping phones dry during a day at the beach or while on an excursion. Your cruiser can even take underwater photos on their phone with them.

48. Carryon Bag

Having a great carry-on bag is a must-have item for all cruisers. When giving a carry-on as a gift, keep in mind that it needs to be large enough for a change of clothes, essential toiletries and medications, electronic chargers, a bathing suit, and any other items one would need before their luggage arrives at the stateroom. I also recommend that it be lightweight and easy to carry or have wheels. This one from LUGGEX is one of my favorite carry-on pieces because of the laptop pocket.

49. Luggage Set

A great set of luggage is not just a cruise necessity, it’s a travel essential. This two-piece set from Samsonite is ultra-light, has double spinner wheels that roll super smooth and is overall great quality. The set comes with a 21-inch carry-on and a 28-inch checked bag. The 24-inch medium piece can be purchased separately.

50. Travel Jewelry Case

I have tried many different travel jewelry cases, and this one is by far my favorite. It is much lighter than a leather case, it’s thin enough to not take up a lot of space, and my necklaces don’t tangle. I like that it comes in different sizes and a few different colors too. The best part is the price is extremely reasonable.

51. Pill Case

While not the most exciting item, a travel pill organizer is another very practical gift for a person who loves to travel. There is no need to carry around multiple bottles that only take up space or store them in Ziploc bags. This pill organizer comes in two different sizes and a few different colors.

52. Luggage Scale

One of my greatest fears, as an overpacker, is getting stuck at the airport with an overweight bag. If the jet setter on your list, is also prone to overpacking, they could use a portable luggage scale. They are small enough to slip into the luggage and provide accurate weight measurements, ensuring no overweight fees are incurred.

53. Noshinku Pocket Hand Sanitizer

Who says hand sanitizer has to come in a boring bottle and smell terrible? It doesn’t. Help keep your frequent flyer healthy and germ-free with these beautiful hand sanitizers from Noshinku. They would make a fantastic stocking stuffer if you’re shopping for a holiday gift.

54. Travel Journal

A journal would be a great gift for someone about to embark on a cruise . It’s a great place for them to jot down their memories and document their voyage. A travel blogger would especially appreciate this as a gift.

I like the 5 Minute Journal because it only takes 5 minutes to write about my experiences. So much happens on our vacations, and it’s nice to have the journal to look back on and truly appreciate all that happened.

55. Sleep Mask

The gift of a good night’s sleep is one that any cruise lover will be grateful for, and this weighted eye mask makes it possible. The weighted beads provide just the right amount of pressure to help relax the nerves around the eyes to provide maximum relaxation while blocking out light to create a completely dark environment. I have one of these on my wish list, as I struggle with falling asleep on long-haul flights. Many reviewers say they can’t sleep without it, and over 2,500 people have given it a 5-star review.

56. Travel Pillow

Help your cruiser catch some extra zzz’s on the plane ride with this travel pillow by Cabeau. It has adjustable straps that attach to any headrest which will prevent the pillow from slipping out of place. The adjustable chin rest provides additional comfort, and it is machine washable. It is a bit large, but it rolls up nicely.

57. Toiletry Containers

Many people buy products in bulk, and while that saves money and is convenient at home, it’s impractical to pack liter-size bottles of shampoo and conditioner when traveling. First off, they won’t pass through security in a carry-on and secondly, they’re heavy and take up way too much space. Buying travel sizes in products is also extremely expensive.

The perfect solution is travel-sized toiletry bottles. The bottles by Mrsdry are leakproof, squeezable, and 3oz- making them TSA-approved.

58. Travel Mug

A good quality travel mug is essential for all cruise lovers. They are perfect for keeping beverages cold while spending an afternoon in the sun on the pool deck. This Yeti travel mug would make a great gift.

59. Portable Phone Charger

Having a fully charged phone is so important when exploring one of the ports of call. Gift the cruiser on your gift list, a portable charger to ensure they always have a full charge.

The portable charger by Anker is one of the best available. Its super slim design makes it easy to tuck into the pocket of a carry-on. It also can charge devices multiple times before needing to be charged.

60. UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

A UV toothbrush sanitizer is much more effective at keeping germs off a toothbrush than the snap-on plastic covers. This one by Bril will keep the germs at by and act as a travel toothbrush cover.

61. Sheet Masks

All types of travel can be dehydrating. Cruising is no different. These sheet masks keep the face hydrated and glowing. I always travel with a few.

Gifts for Warm Weather Cruises

There are so many cruise itineraries available, and the items below are specifically for cruises heading to warm-weather destinations. Whether the ship is sailing through the Caribbean or the Mexican Riviera, these are gifts that the cruiser on your list is sure to love.

62. Towel Clips

Towel clips are a fun and useful gift. They not only help keep a towel in place, but they are also great chair identifiers and placeholders. There are many different options too, everything from basic to ones that have a lot of personality.

63. Towel Bands

A lot of cruisers are starting to prefer towel bands to towel clips because they hold the towel in place more securely than the clips.

64. Swimsuit Cover-up

A beautiful swimsuit cover-up is essential for walking comfortably from the cruise ship stateroom to the pool deck.

65. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Reef-safe sunscreen is required in most cruise ports. It would make a great stocking stuffer or included in a gift basket.

66. Aloe Vera Gel

Sometimes we get a bit too much sun, no matter how hard we try not to. Aloe Vera is great for easing the pain of any unwanted sunburn.

67. Microfiber Beach Towel

These lightweight beach towels are perfect for excursion days. They help dry quickly and help keep the sand where it belongs- the beach!

68. Neck Fan

A portable neck fan is the perfect gift for someone going on a warm-weather cruise . The neck fan by JISULIFE is one of the highest-rated options on the market. It lasts for up to 16 hours, making it perfect for a full-day excursion.

69. Beach Bag

This beach bag is a necessity for carrying all the important items from the cruise cabin to the pool. It’s large enough to fit a Kindle, sunscreen, phone water bottle and more.

70. Sun Hat Clip

I’ve always struggled with packing hats, especially a large sun hat. This little clip is a game changer, as it clips the hat to the outside of a bag. It’s such a simple gift idea, but one that is sure to be used often.

Gifts for Alaskan Cruisers

An Alaskan cruise is a dream vacation for many. It’s also a vacation that requires special gear or clothing that a cruiser may only use for that one trip. The items on this list will be great gifts for someone you know going on an Alaskan cruise .

71. Binoculars

The scenery and wildlife are one of the major reasons people go on an Alaskan cruise . These binoculars will help the cruiser be able to fully see and appreciate the natural beauty.

72. Waterproof Jacket

A waterproof jacket will keep your cruiser comfortable in the Arctic. From standing on the ship deck as it pulls into port to hiking the breathtaking trails, they will be grateful for the warmth it provides.

73. Bug Repellant Patches

Mosquitos are the unofficial state bird of Alaska. These bug-repellant patches will do a great job of keeping them away.

74. Bear Bell

There is a good chance that a bear will be seen on an Alaskan cruise excursion. Bears do not like to be surprised, so it is advised to make noises when hiking and exploring the wilderness. Wearing a bear bell warns bears, and other animals, of your presence.

75. Travel Shoe Bag

A travel shoe bag is a great gift for cruisers going to Alaska. They will more than likely be spending quite a bit of time outdoors, and possibly some hiking, on their trip. The weather in Alaska while unpredictable, is usually wet. These shoe bags will ensure the rest of the items in their luggage are not exposed to any mud, dirt, or debris.

76. Snow Boots

There will be snow and ice in Alaska, even in the summer, and snow boots are a must-have item.

Gifts for Cruisers Sailing Through Europe

There are so many wonderful cruise itineraries throughout Europe. Everything from cruising the Mediterranean to cruises that sail through Norway, and even world cruises! A cruise goer will require destination-specific items for these voyages, and I’ve listed some below that would make great gifts.

77. Anti-Theft Backpack

Pickpockets are, unfortunately very common in Europe and they know how to spot tourists. Give the gift of protection with an anti-theft backpack or purse, like this one from Pacsafe.

It is made from cut-proof material and has an RFID-blocking pocket to keep credit cards, IDs, and other small valuables safe. The padded main compartment can easily store a 15” laptop and 10” tablet.

78. Blister Bandages

Not really a glamorous gift, but they will be appreciated. Even wearing the best walking shoes, blisters can still develop due to the number of steps that one takes trekking through Europe.

79. Pashmina

A pashmina is a great gift for cruise travelers because it is extremely versatile. It can function as a beautiful scarf, a light blanket for the plane, a swimsuit cover-up, and a shawl to cover shoulders while touring religious sites.

80. International Power Adapter

One of the must-have items when traveling abroad is a converter and adapter combo. While it might not be the most exciting gift, it is a very practical gift. They can both be purchased separately because they have different functions. A travel adapter is what is needed in many other countries to adapt the outlets for US electronics. A converter converts the voltage to match that of the appliance.

Any of these gifts would work great on their own, and there are quite a few that would work well together as a part of a cruise -themed gift basket.

I hope you found this list helpful! I’d love to hear about your favorite cruising essentials in the comments below!

7 responses to “Gifts for Cruise Lovers: 80 Awesome Gifts They Actually Want”

Great ideas!

Some cool gifts you have here. I love the wine tumbler which is perfect for a cruise!

Thank you! I’m a wine-o myself and always love a good wine accessory!

There are so many fun and unique gift ideas – all perfect for the avid cruiser. I would love a neck fan as it’s perfect on hot days at the pool in general – and on a cruise!

Thank you for stopping by! The neck fan is a game changer on a hot day!

Yes, I love these ideas! My favorites were the waterproof phone bag and bear bell! So useful, especially on cruises to Alaska!

Thank you for stopping by! I’m glad you found the items helpful 🙂

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The Best Christmas Gifts For Cruisers

by Prof. Cruise · November 22, 2021

* I participate in Amazon’s Associates Program and receive a small commission at no extra cost to you on products purchased through links in this post. Thank you for your support!

Last Christmas Santa, triple masked under his hazmat suit, air dropped a gift, attached to a small parachute, over my apartment complex in order to adhere to Seattle’s strict Covid protocols. I grabbed hold of the strings, dragged it in through the window, and gave it a shake, confident it was exactly what I’d asked for: bulk Xanax. I mean, lockdown in a small downtown apartment with two adults working from home, an 7 year-old schooling from home, and a geriatric dog farting from home had been challenging. But the worst part, for me and thousands of others? Wondering if cruising would ever be back! (Which is why, a few months earlier, Santa had announced an exclusive partnership with Pfizer.)

But this year, after three post-Covid cruises and another three (including one over Christmas) booked, I’m feeling much more bullish about the future. And I’ve been working on this year’s list:

And so concludes this post, because really the only appropriate gift for a cruise lover is…a cruise.

Okay, okay, here are some other ideas (to supplement, not replace the cruise):

Christmas Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

Here are some cruise-themed gift ideas for your cruise-loving friends and family or, better yet, to #treatyoself.

Cruise-Themed Christmas Gifts Perfect for the Office

• Door Sign : So every time someone knocks on your door you can say: “No offense, but please read the sign before entering so we start this conversation on the same page.”
• Dress Socks : These cruise ship socks pair especially well with school girl skirts and lederhosen, but any ankle exposing work bottoms will do.
• Work Shirt : Wear this sweatshirt to your annual 401k meeting: “Yes, I have a retirement plan – I plan to cruise!”
• Pencil Case : You can also use this to hide M&M’s to snack on during boring meetings or to throw at long-winded colleagues keeping you from getting back to your office to read cruise reviews.
• Coffee Mug :This I Work To Fund My Cruising Addiction mug will convey to your boss just how passionate you are about your vacation, I mean vocation.
• Notebook: Call a meeting, pass each person one of these notebooks , and immediately sprint in the direction of your cruise, because quarterly goals can wait – all you need is vitamin sea!

Cruise-Themed Christmas Gifts Perfect for the Home

• Piggy Bank : You can use this “Travel Fund” piggy bank to store your partner’s credit card. Trust me, it will make you giggle every time you look at it.
• Ornament : If you only have room on your Charlie Brown tree for one ornament, make it this cruise ship .
• Cruise-Themed Lamp : Purchase the anchor one on the right for your classy friends and the neon LED cruise ship one for your tacky friend Prof. Cruise (no seriously, I want one of these for my desk).
• Cruise Ship Centerpiece : While you’ll never see it at a Martha Stewart magazine shoot, this cardboard cruise ship centerpiece will delight your Taco Tuesday friends (wait until they’ve had a few beers before you put it out though).
• Cruise Ship Cookie Cutter : Before I moved to Seattle, I lived in Pittsburgh where weddings were judged by the neighborhood busy body not for their venue or flowers or attire, but for their cookie tables! (Any Pittsburgh peeps reading who can back me up on this?) Trust me, yours will be judged the wedding of the century with this cruise ship cookie cutter !
• Cruise Ship Tapestry : To make your living room look like a dorm room. Or to make your dorm room look like a nursing home. Oh stop, there are plenty of young people who enjoy cruising who did not just receive an e-mail invitation to join the AARP.

True story:

Yeah, I joined. But not because I’m old enough! I did it for the free charger.

Cruise-Themed Christmas Gifts Perfect for your Partner

Because when they tell you, “oh the cruise is enough, honey” they’re LYING and you better have something for them to open! Here are a few ideas for women and men:

• Vax Card and Passport Holder : Or if your partner is opposed to vaccination, they can use it to store their Trump card (chill, it’s just a fun play on words).
• Nautical Scarf : To wear for Christmas dinner at your kid’s place and then to use later to tie your partner to the bed while you…eat all the leftover pie.
• Cruise Ship Charm : To commit a crime and then leave at the scene to frame your wife: “Wasn’t me, I’m not the one with the Pandora bracelet who loves cruising.”
• Captain’s Shirt : This is one of those gifts that you tag with the name of your husband or boyfriend, but really intend for yourself. Dress your man in this cruise ship captain t-shirt and live out all your fantasies: “Sure, I’d love a tour of your private quarters Captain.”
• Cruise Ship Tie Clip (try saying that 10 times fast) : Grab up the charm from earlier and drop this in its place. You’ll never have to pick a wet towel up from off the floor again once he goes to prison.
• Nautical tie : Get a matching tie to bolster your case: “Yes, that pin goes with this tie, officer.”
• Romantic Cruise Shirt : If you prefer cruising solo, get your husband one of these to remind him of how much he secretly hates traveling with you: “I think I’ll sit this one out on dry land honey. Definitely go without me.”

Cruise-Themed Christmas Gifts Perfect for Kids

Numbers 1-6, a book about ocean life , a cruise ship bath toy , aquatic comfort lovies , a cruise ship coloring book , a cruise ship building block set , and a Playmobil cruise ship toy , are all intended to indoctrinate young children into loving cruising so that someday you’ll have someone to wheel you up the gangway. I’d also suggest you show up at your local school board meeting and forcefully demand that the coloring book be added to the elementary curriculum. We must all do our part to Keep America Cruising!

As for #7, I can only imagine this t-shirt was supposed to say “milk drunk” since it’s available in child sizes. Why not get one for everyone in the family though? Safety first!

Cruise-Related Stocking Stuffers

When I initially did a search for “cruise ship stocking ,” I accidentally searched for “cruise ship stalking .” Which is what I’m used to doing. No, seriously – I rented an apartment in downtown Seattle with a view of both cruise ship piers for that very reason. In any case, here are some cruise-related ideas for stocking stuffers.

• Stocking : First you’ll need a nautical-themed stocking for stuffing. (You can also poke a little hole it it and hang it in your window for cruise ship stalking .”
• Luggage Tags : These cruise luggage tags will encourage your New Year’s resolutions to plan ahead and become more organized. And they’ll survive the taxi ride to the pier, even if you don’t: “Well at least we know where to send her bags.”
• Santa Cruise: A Novel : I haven’t read this one yet (so I apologize if it’s awful or offensive), but I purchased it for my Christmas cruise to hog a prime lounger by the pool.
• Waterproof Vaccine and Ship Card Holder and Lanyard: I bought this for Mr. Cruise to prevent him from asking me approximately 5,000 times over our 10-night cruise: “Have you seen my ship card?”
• Water Shoes : I see these as a loophole, skirting around that pesky “no shoes, no service” rule in the dining areas. In a similar vein, you could also get one of those novelty t-shirts with a sexy body in a bikini or speedo printed on it and go from the pool to dining in the MDR in under 5 minutes: “Table for one by the window please, and FYI, this is actually a shirt and these are technically shoes.”
• Pineapple Towel Clips : I post these here as both a recommendation and a warning. You should definitely pick up a pair of clips, used to secure towels to loungers, for your wife. However, you should absolutely not get her these pineapple ones unless you’re looking to spice up your marriage or were disappointed in that reality series “Wife Swap” because instead of finally validating your life choices on mainstream TV, it was just a bunch of boring, white-bread couples arguing over chores and child rearing practices. All that is to say that pineapples are used by swingers to signal each other for S-E-X. As in, “if I put a pineapple on this lounger I’m not hoping for a cold cocktail to be waiting for me when I get back. No, I’m hoping for a warm-blooded man. And that man better not be my husband.” I know this all too personally having decorated my cabin door on a cruise to Hawaii with a s**t-ton of pineapples only to be told “never mind” by several gentleman when I answered the door with a towel on my head as I yelled at my kid to stop jumping on the bed. So go with one of THESE towel clips instead.

Essentials for your Christmas Cruise

Spending Christmas onboard this year like I am? Here are some essentials you’ll want to pick up for your Christmas cruise:

• Ugly Sweater : Even though you intend this equally festive and classy sweatshirt to serve as an extra layer in case it gets chilly in the MDR during Christmas dinner, don’t be surprised if it mistakenly gets entered into your ships “ugly sweater contest” and declared the undisputed winner even though it’s technically not a sweater.
• Nautical Gift Wrap: So those nice TSA folks working at the airport over the holidays have something to open. (Pro-tip, don’t wrap your gifts in advance if you’re traveling to your cruise by air.)
• Cookies For Santa : Grab some cookies from the buffet to display on this adorable “ cookies for Santa ” plate, post photos to Instagram and ensure the kids are asleep before eating them, and come clean on Christmas morning with this “ I Ate Santa’s Cookies ” sweatshirt.
• Travel Tree : Slap this felt Christmas tree onto your stateroom wall and don’t worry about dry pine needles puncturing the bottoms of your feet until next Christmas. And it comes with a free snowman advent calendar so you don’t accidentally opt for buffet pizza and miss Christmas dinner in the MDR.
• Dear Santa Kit : If your child or grandchild is worried about Santa finding him on the ship, don’t say what’s really on your mind: “How could you possibly believe that a man could remain jolly when he spends 11 months of the year working 24/7 as a production manager in a place too cold to even step outside for a smoke break and the other month getting peed and pooped and barfed on by terrified toddlers, red-faced and screaming through their photo op?” Instead, purchase this Dear Santa ki t and help him compose a letter to the mythical jolly man with instructions on where to deliver his toys.
• Custom Christmas Cruise Shirts: You can all wear these for your Christmas card photo!
• Mass-produced Cruise Christmas Card : Or, if you can’t get your husband and son to cooperate for the photo and you decide it’s weird to send out a Christmas photo of just yourself (I mean, it didn’t stop me), you can go with these mass-produced cruise-themed Christmas cards . The outside shows Santa boarding a cruise ship and the inside reads: “Wishing you smooth sailing throughout the new year.”
• Santa Onesie : This Santa adult onesie will both allow you to effectively hide cruise bloating and weight gain and offer an excuse for eating 3 lunches: “I’m just trying to stay in character.”

Here’s Mr. Cruise modeling the Santa onesie on two of our prior Christmas cruises :

Gifts to use Onboard

• Travel Mug : An insulated travel tumbler to keep your coffee hot and your cocktails from spilling because, well, you’re ship faced.
• A Puzzle : To keep you entertained on sea days. This might not be the best choice though. Try this fully afloat Carnival cruise ship one or this Royal Caribbean one.
• What Happens on the Ship Stays on the Ship Socks : Maybe you should get those pineapple towel clips after all!
• Cruise Ship Door Cover : You’ll feel like a real cruise ship captain with this door cover. Careful though, your dad never taught you to navigate a cruise ship between a couple of orange cones in the church parking lot (see photo #2 above).
• Customized Cabin Door Magnet : If you purchased the drink package and want to make sure you pass out in front of the correct stateroom.
• Extra Outlets : This cruise approved power strip with 3 three-pronged outlets and 2 USB ports for all your tech addicted friends.
• Cruise Shirt : For the overly literal. For everyone else, go HERE for my curated list of fun cruise shirts.
• Sunrise Alarm Clock : I never sleep better than in an inside cabin on a cruise ship. In fact, one time I went to sleep on embarkation night and woke up to find a backlog of 7 daily newsletters and debarkation instructions on my door. I’d slept through my whole cruise! I had to eat 40,000 calories at the buffet that morning to make up for all I’d missed! So from then on I started bringing along this sunrise alarm clock . You can program this digital clock to simulate the sunrise, so you wake up in time for your first of three breakfasts.
• Cruise-themed masks : While cruising is back, it’s still not totally back to how it was pre-pandemic. These days masks and cruising go together like raisins and oatmeal cookies. Clearly one is much better without the other, but hey, it’s still a cookie. And it’s still a cruise! Make the best of it with a fun cruise-themed mask. My Carnival friends will like this “ Cruisin and Boozin ” one (I kid, I kid) and my fellow cruising addicts and pun lovers will like this “ No Cruise Control ” one.
• Thank You Cards : I saved these thank you cards for last because, while most of the items included in this guide were selected for being some combination of useful and humorous, this one I recommend with all seriousness. I suggest you pick up a pack of these cards before each cruise. Compose a hand-written note of thanks and include an extra cash tip inside for ship crew who have worked so hard, far away from their homes and families, often missing holidays and special occasions, to make your cruise vacation special.

And with that, I wish you and your family a safe, joyous, and cruise-filled holiday season.

Class Dismissed.

Homework: No homework! It’s Christmas! But be sure to follow me on Instagram ( @profcruise ) for daily cruise content and to see what it’s like to cruise over Christmas, New Years, and a birthday (my son’s turning 9 on our Christmas cruise)!

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Prof. Cruise, Thank you for writing out my Christmas list for me🎄🛳

Lol. Happy to help!

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Best Travel Gifts for Cruisers

Here’s my curated list of the best travel gift ideas for cruisers, whether first time cruisers or those with dozens of cruises under their belts. 

Remember to include your friends and family who’ve never cruised but are considering it. Some of these gifts would be appreciated by your land-lubber friends, too!

If these little gifts seem like tchotchkes or super silly, they can be really helpful on a cruise, whether used in your stateroom or ashore.

Best Travel Gifts for Cruisers, Newbies and Experienced!

This post may contain affiliate links that won’t change your price but will share some commission. as an amazon associate i earn from qualifying purchases..

Did you know that power strips with surge protectors are NOT allowed on ships? I used to bring a typical power strip/surge protector on cruises for a few years. 

I would always unplug it when I left the stateroom. But unplugging my power strip/surge protector wasn’t good enough for fire safety. Your stateroom attendant has the green light to “confiscate” those until the end of the cruise.

This power strip is simply a multi-outlet power source WITH USB. Not all older ships have USB ports built into the lamps or nightstands.

Cruise Power Strip No Surge Protector with USB Outlets

My Favorite Hanging Organizer

Foldable Clear Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

The smallest zipper pockets get filled with earrings and pendants and one for just dental floss. I can fit my toothbrush and toothpaste in one of the wider zipped pockets and eye makeup in another wide pocket.

This is a great gift for first time cruisers who might not know exactly the best way to pack for a cruise .

There are times when I’m in transit, whether on a ship or hopping on and off trains that this is perfect and holds everything I need, even for just one night.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite 11th Generation

Yes, I actually just bought this for myself and it arrived yesterday. It was my best gift for a cruiser…me! I wasn’t sure if I really needed it…I’m not the most avid reader. But that’s partly because I don’t like to pack actual paper or hardcover books for travel. 

And though I hate to admit it, small print is getting more difficult and annoying. Plus, there’s not always the best reading light. (Sounds like a litany of literary excuses, right?)

With this small e-reader, you can adjust the font size, line spacing and warmth or cool screen lighting. 

It took me all of five minutes to sync the new Kindle Paperwhite 11th Generation to my Kindle app on my iPhone and poof! All my books and book samples were on my new Kindle. 

Though I always travel with my iPad and iPhone, this new Kindle edition is waterproof and super light. I can sit on my balcony or at the pool and not worry about it getting splashed on or caught in a light rain or mist so common on an Alaska cruise .

READ MORE :  What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

Packing Cubes – Don’t Leave Home Without Them!

These are almost crucial to successful packing and living aboard a ship. First of all, you can see the contents through the mesh top. Second, they easily fit into the few drawers in your stateroom closet so you don’t have to unpack the contents. 

The lighter colors are convenient (there’s about five or six colors to choose) because they’re easy to find inside the drawers or closet shelves.

And I’ll confess, I bought two sets of these packing cubes; one in black and the other in red. I roll or fold everything into these and pack into my suitcase like playing Tetris til everything is in its place.

Amazon Basics 4 Piece Packing Travel Organizer Cubes  

Poo-Pourri – One Spray Goes a Long Way

And yes, it works. You simply spray a small “protective” layer of oil on the surface of the toilet bowl water to repress any, shall we say, unpleasant odors? 

Poo-Pourri Lavender Vanilla Scent Before-You-Go Toilet Spray

RELATED:    10 Essential Items I Always Pack for a Cruise

DJI OM 5 Smartphone Selfie Stick with Stabilizer

In addition, as a person that cruises and travels solo, I’ll admit that I like to have at least a few photos of me with an interesting background to remember the trip. 

Or, if I meet some new friends, I can place it on a table, set my phone self-timer and get a decent group photo.

And last, it has an excellent built in stabilizer (that’s a “gimbal”). So if I want to take a video as I walk around ancient ruins or record a calving glacier while the ship is in motion, it’ll take the perfectly stabilized video.

It folds down into something about the size of your hand and fits neatly into its cloth case.

Portable DJI OM 5 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer with Case

READ NEXT:  9 Money-Saving Items to Pack for a Cruise

Passport and Vaccine Card Holder

Available in many colors and vacation-themed designs.

AC Dream Passport and Vaccine Card Holder Combo

Extra Strong Magnet Hooks

Did you know that most walls and doors on cruise ships are metal? They may look fancy, but they’re usually metal.

These hooks are great for a zillion uses; hanging your hats and caps, sunglasses, lanyard with your room key, wet raincoat or umbrella and on and on. 

Living in a small room  for a few days or longer, it’s so nice to be able to declutter your living space. I bought two packs…I usually forget to “unstick” at least one on each trip. 

Strongman Magnets | 6 Pack of Powerful 30LB Neodymium Heavy Duty Magnetic Hooks

Packable, Lightweight Day Bag / Backpack

Yes, I have this one, too. And in pink…for a Caribbean cruise and black for Alaska, of course. Because it folds into itself into a tiny package, I bring it along on all my cruises; you never know when you’ll need extra space at the end of the cruise.

Bago Packable Lightweight Backpack – Water Resistant  

Foldable Jewelry Organizer Case

Right. I know I said that I keep my small earrings in the hanging organizer. I use it for necklaces, bracelets and dangle earrings (or post earrings if the organizer is full). This foldable case is small and easy to carry with you, NOT in your checked luggage.

BAGSMART Travel Jewelry Organizer Case Foldable Jewelry Roll

Hydro Flask Lightweight Water Bottle

This is my go-to travel water bottle from Hydro Flask…light weight but still carries 24 oz. Remember never to let the lip of your personal water bottle touch the public drinking fountain spigot on the ship.

READ NEXT:   Holland America Eurodam Review on Alaska Cruise

With your own Hydro Flask, it holds more than a $2.99 plastic water bottle, is better for the environment, looks much nicer and you can bring it home! Plus, I’ve used the lid handle with a carabiner clip to attach to luggage or a belt loop.

Waterproof Lanyard for Mobile Phone

It’s waterproof, not just resistant. Just make sure the seal is completely closed. There’s even a quick release clip if you need your phone separately.

Mobile Phone Waterproof Pouch with Touch Screen on a Lanyard

Cruise Lanyard for Your Ship Card

The pouch is also waterproof and fits all major cruise lines’ ship cards. Wear with or without the pouch, if you have a hole punched in your card for drinks, too. These make a great gift idea for first time cruisers.

Cruise Lanyards for Ship Cards, 2-Pack with Several Cute Nautical Designs

Cruise Journals- Simple and Compact

Bonded Leather Journal 5-Pack

Cruise Staff Thank You   Cards

Even if you don’t feel the need to “overtip” someone, leaving a special thank you note is very much appreciated by the crew, far away from their families and countries. 

Cruise Staff Thank You Cards

Alaska Inside Passage Ornament  

The ornament lists all the Alaska cruise ports on an Inside Passage cruise plus recognizable iconic symbols.

Alaska Inside Passage Cruise Ornament

Recommended For Cruiser Who Love to Read 

And finally, you can give someone a gift of Kindle Unlimited if they have a Kindle e-reader (like my new Kindle Paperwhite ) or to use with the Kindle app on any of their devices. 

In addition to my new Paperwhite e-reader, I also have the Kindle app on my iPad to use with my Kindle Unlimited plan. I did this so I can download cookbooks and read the recipe as I cook. 

When it comes to finding the best gift for someone who loves to cruise, first-time cruisers or even yourself, I hope my hand-picked list will make your gift-buying decision a little easier.

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Hi Mary, Thank you so much for taking the time to read my article and send your question. Yes, the daypack can hold a puff jacket or vest. Sometimes the puffy jacket comes with its own little bag with a hanging cord. When I had a puffy jacket that did not come with its own little bag, I’ve squished it up and stuffed it into a gallon freezer bag and rolled it up to let out the air. Then seal it and unroll to have a totally flat jacket to put into your suitcase. I’ve used the jacket in its own bag with a carabiner to attach to my daypack, too. I have that pink daypack and it’s super convenient. Thank you again! Happy travels!

Thanks for another great article! Is the day pack large enough to hold a puff jacket and/or vest?

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Awesome Cruise Gift Ideas for Cruise Fans & People Going on a Cruise

Whether it was 2020 with canceled sailings for the year after March, or we're looking to more promising times in the future, we have the best cruise gift ideas for cruise lovers and newbies.

Cruise fans are pretty die-hard for the travel format. Maybe it's you or someone you know. (We're obviously cruise-lovers, so we get it!) But everyone going on a cruise would love some these cruise gift ideas. And lots of these items aren't just fun but will really help you on your trip.

Do you gift these items or get the items for yourselves? There's no wrong answer because rewarding yourself feels good, as does giving gifts.

Boating and cruise gifts, especially on Etsy, are alive and well. We are sharing the following gift categories, for any time of year (holidays included but great for year-round as well):

• Personalized gifts for someone going on a cruise
• General gifts for a person going on a cruise
• Practical gifts for your stateroom or cabin
• Practical gifts for a cruise vacation

We love supporting small businesses, so we've listed Etsy shop items wherever possible. When not possible, we share where to get the item elsewhere.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase,  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Personalized Gifts for Someone Going a Cruise

Custom flip flops.

There are two really cute personalized flip-flop styles we recommend as gift ideas for cruise lovers.

One pair reminds me of the famous designer, Jack Rogers, style of flip-flops. You can get your initials embroidered on the top of the flip-flops .

The other pair is great for a cruise that goes to beach destinations because they stamp your personalized message or name in the sand . So fun, right?

Personalized Toiletry Bags for Your Cruise

Everyone needs a toiletry bag. We love to have ours ready to go at a moment's notice so packing for vacation is super fast and easy, and we can pack in just 10 minutes . We pretty much keep duplicate toiletries in travel sizes of what we use at home in a toiletry bag at all times. (Hey, you never know!)

Travel in style with a personalized toiletry bag with your initials or name on it, or those of the traveling friend you're gifting it to. Or a fabric toiletry bag in a bright color , or a solid color polyester canvas bag with monogram . We love the bags that have an extra pocket or compartment, like the leather and canvas bag in the bottom photo.

It's a good idea to ensure your toiletry bag has a loop on it somewhere if you want to clip it up on a towel rod with a hook or carabiner to save space in your cabin bathroom.

Keep reading for links to some great hooks to gift to a cruise lover in your life in this article.

Personalized Beach Hats

Straw hats for vacation remain popular for photo ops (especially amongst Instagram lovers). But it's with reason – because nothing says “vacation” like a floppy straw hat!

Personalized beach hats are great for hanging out by the pool to shade your face from the sun and on non-windy days at sea. (Because a windy deck could mean your hat will fly off into the ocean)

You can customize them to pretty much say whatever you want on Etsy. Can you imagine laying on the beach at a port or on the top deck of a cruise ship with a fabulous hat, listening to your favorite Cruise Podcasts ?

Here are two we love:

• Cheers Beaches
• One you can customize with your name….or anything you want it to say.

Personalized Turkish Towels

A Turkish towel has many uses. It can be used as a towel in the bathroom, of course. But it can also be used as a shawl or a beach towel. People who have long hair can wrap it around their hair to dry faster after bathing. You can even use it as a blanket, to cover a lounge chair or on the beach or great lawn.

We love the embroidered Turkish towel options on Etsy. It's the perfect cruise gift idea for someone to pack because having one item with multiple uses saves on space, which is necessary when packing for a cruise.

Anyone you give this thoughtful, personalized cruise gift to will go gaga for it.

Two shops that are fabulous for embroidered Turkish towels on Etsy are TheCharmingStudio and PeshtemalTowel .

General Cruise Gift Ideas for a Person Going on a Cruise

Beach glass jewelry.

There's something so beautiful about beach glass jewelry. I've always loved the passage of time that's so clearly seen in beach glass, after years of tumbling in the ocean and rough edges are sanded smooth against the shore.

There are so many cute pieces of jewelry from Etsy vendors, like the example in the photo below from BeachGlassMemories. I love the idea of pearls with beach glass – it's the perfect blend of the sea with something shaped by sand and ocean water.

Waterproof Kindle

To us, packing for a cruise means packing light. And if we can cut down on the number of things we have to pack, the better.

So if you want to read on your cruise vacation but don't want to take multiple books get yourself this cruise gift idea: a waterproof Kindle . It's the perfect gift for cruise lovers and someone going on a trip where they'll be near water a lot…but also want to read.

The good news is that you won't risk pages of a book getting wet from over splash of anyone being a little rowdy in the pool.

Don't forget a Kindle case for it too!

Cruise Books

Speaking of a Kindle, you'll need some books to go on it! Consider any of the books from our list of over 25 nonfiction cruise books , broken down into categories including books by avid cruisers, books by cruise crew, and historic expeditions.

Gift Card Cruise Gift Ideas

Amazon gift cards (to buy kindle books).

You can't go wrong with an Amazon gift card …because you (or whoever you gift the Waterproof Kindle to) are going to need books on that Kindle! It would also potentially help them purchase a bunch of practical items we listed in this post, available on Amazon.

Gift Music with a Spotify Membership

The reason we like the idea of Spotify is that you can create a playlist and download it so it's available offline. Many cruise ships have internet available (whether included or for an extra cost, it depends on the cruise). But it's often not strong enough or reliant enough to stream music.

Thus, the best thing for someone going on a cruise is to download music, beforehand, that's readily available to listen to on their phone, offline. Which you can easily do in the Spotify app.

Apple Gift Card for Music or the App Store

We have a few apps that we recommend downloading for a cruise , including packing list helpers and night sky apps. Some of them cost money or have in-app purchase options.

An Apple gift card is a thoughtful cruise gift idea that would help someone pay for the apps.

Gift Card to Target, CVS, Walgreens, Supermarket, Etc.

Gift cards to places like Target, or even supermarkets and the like are always useful. You can include a card that says it's for all the not-so-fun but necessary items, like reef-safe sunscreen and anti-nausea pills .

Travel Tube Blanket

I knew I had to have a Travel Tube Blanket as soon as I saw it on Etsy. Initially, I got it because I get cold easily, especially on airplanes. It's a scarf that converts to a shawl and also a blanket. (So cool.)

But it's also come in handy on the top deck of a cruise ship when it's a little windy, or sitting on the beach if I get cold. (Because we like to walk on the beach during fall and winter too, like in Fort Lauderdale , and the weather is more unpredictable then.)

It comes in a variety of patterns and colors , and the business is female-owned and operated, by Carlyn Hooyer. She makes everything in the shop herself. She even makes Travel Tube Blankets in kids' sizes.

Nautical Bracelets

Omega sailing bracelet.

I love my rubber and stainless steel OMEGA Sailing Bracelet . It's a premium item that you can dress up or down and matches just about anything. I absolutely adore that I pretty much never have to take it off because you can wear it to the beach, in the ocean, and in the shower. All it takes to clean is a little soap and water.

Wildwood Oyster Co. Seaweed Bracelet

What's better to give a cruise lover than a bracelet that reminds them of seaweed?! It directly connects you to the ecosystem beneath the water.

Wildwood Oyster Co. is another one of the extra special cruise gift ideas to give to a family member or friend. You can choose from polished brass, teal or black patina, or sterling silver. And you'll be supporting a small business when you buy from them, which is located in Maine and is female-owned and operated.

Read more about this nautical bracelet to learn about the philanthropies they contribute to.

Nautical Bags, Made from Sails

How cool is it that Sea Bags creates totes, wristlets, toiletry bags, beach bags and more from recycled sails from sailboats? SO FREAKIN' COOL! They're upcycling material that has been on the ocean and giving it new life.

It's a unique business that we discovered when we went on our Maine Windjammer Cruise , especially walking around a town like Stonington , when we were in port. It just seemed appropriate and I felt extra special wearing one. I was so excited to be sporting a cool octopus-patterned bag, but they have a ton of different options. You can even design your own. Check them out here .

Mosquito and Bug Repellants

If you're going on a cruise and you're going to be by the water during any warm month, in any warm location, chances are you'll need a way to ward off bugs and mosquitoes.

We love the mosquito repellent bracelets we have because you can reuse them. You just get new essential oil refills as needed. And if someone gets you this cruise gift idea, it's one less thing you have to buy for yourself.

Anti-Nausea Medicine and Remedies

If you're the kind of person who thinks you may get motion sickness it's best to go on a cruise prepared. The cruise ships usually have some medicine to help onboard but if you know it'll be an issue no sense in not preparing. (We actually wish we had some just in case when Dan unexpectedly got motion sickness on a large cruise ship.)

Dramamine is of course one of the most popular over-the-counter drugs for nausea. Another remedy is anti-nausea wristbands. Our favorite (and the most stylish on the market) are Blisslets .

Make a Cruise Gift Basket with Miscellaneous Items for Someone Going on a Cruise

If you like to give practical gifts (which we personally enjoy giving) but don't think it's so sexy to gift someone anti-nausea pills, here's an idea: make a goody bag or gift basket for someone going on a cruise.

Include fun things like some gift cards, sunscreen and mosquito repellant wrist bands, and some hooks (mentioned below) for their stateroom. Even better if you're creating it to SURPRISE someone with a cruise !!

Useful Gifts for Your Cruise Cabin or Stateroom

Extra hooks.

Extra hooks are always helpful for your stateroom or cabin . We love s-hooks to simply hook our toiletry bags to a towel rod in the bathroom.

Or use heavy-duty magnetic hooks that can hold up to 22lbs or more depending on your needs. Be sure to notice the amount of weight the hooks can hold before ordering them.

Magnetic hooks with carabiners are also great for your cabin, as are a few extra carabiners that aren't magnetic. They come in handy!

Outlet Converters and Multipliers

If you're on a cruise that's based in another country it's likely the outlets may be made for European plugs. That was the situation on our Emerald Cruises river cruise on the Danube River . We had plenty of converters with us though.

In addition to this, the best way to get more outlets and USB charging ports in your stateroom is by bringing your own outlet converters and adapters that multiply them. Just be careful not to overload the outlets with too many volts.

nodpod Weighted Sleep Masks

We love our nodpod weighted sleep masks so much . They're double-sided to provide two texture options of fabric (one is a little warmer than the other) and wrap all the way around your head for comfort, as opposed to the annoying elastic strings that most sleep masks have.

They completely black out any light and we love that they're weighted. It's very soothing to have it on your face when you're lying down or around your head if you are sitting upright, like on a plane.

We rave about the additional reasons we love our nodpods in a dedicated post .

General, Practical Gifts for a Cruise Vacation

Stasher reusable bags.

These bags are great for so many things, whether to hold your sunscreen just in case the container opens in transit and leaks in your luggage, or to store charging chords. Ditch single-use plastic and give this gift idea to the cruise lovers in your life.

Not only will it save them from ever buying a Ziploc bag again, but it'll also help save the world's oceans, which are greatly affected by single-use plastic. And shouldn't all cruise lovers be friends with the environment , especially the ocean?

The company contributes 1% of its proceeds to charities helping to save the planet .

Stasher bags are also great if you need to put a wet bathing suit in a bag just before you get off a cruise ship, for those who want to squeeze in one last trip to the pool or hot tub before disembarking.

A Reusable Water Bottle

As you can probably already guess, we like to use reusable products whenever possible in an effort to help save the earth.

We use MiiR bottles at home. (They are AMAZING and keep your contents at the temperature you added it to the bottle for HOURS and HOURS. If your water is ice cold when you add it, it will be ice cold hours later, even if it's in direct sunlight.)

Memo Bottle

We love these because they're flat, so a Memo Bottle fits in a pocket, on the side of a backpack, in a purse, etc., very easily and comfortably.

MiiR Bottle

They’re insulated and keep the liquid at the temperature you added it to the bottle, for HOURS and hours. They rock.

We also love that the wide-mouthed bottles are easy to get ice cubes into. Use code “ SOMETIMESHOME ” for  15% off   your order .

Collapsible Water Bottle

This Nomader water bottle saves a lot of space when rolled up and empty. The only reason we don't carry one is because we're worried about squishing it when it's filled with water. But it's a great option if it fits your needs.

If you want a non-insulated, more lightweight bottle, we highly recommend what we travel with: a memobottle . Its flat shape allows it to fit so nicely in – or on the side of – a bag or backpack.

When you think about it, a round water bottle takes up so much space. This flat water bottle is genius… and has a cause. According to their website, “Every memobottle™ sold provides one person with two months' access to clean water.” That's a company whose mission we can get behind. (And we have.)

The A6 memobottle fits nicely in your pocket, which is great for Dan because he never carries a bag when we travel around port cities. What other bottle fits in your pocket so nicely like this!? These water bottles truly rock.

You can easily fill up your water bottle in the dining area of a ship, or wherever a cruise ship's drink station is, and carry it around with you. Many ships are adding water bottle filling stations to fill reusable bottles too, including cruise lines like Star Clippers , Kontiki , Emerald , and Viking to name a few. Or you can fill it up in a port city, where it's safe to drink the water.

CabinZero Backpacks

The great backpacks we put our memobottle on the side of, is our Cabin Zero backpacks.

Once we got these life-changing backpacks we stopped using any other luggage. We can pack for a two-week trip with these, which is hard to believe looking at it but true. (As we said, we pack light.) Even if you are a heavy packer and take another bag, this lightweight backpack is an awesome option to be one of your pieces of luggage.

They really hold a lot, fit in any overhead compartment on any plane we've ever been on (even small commuter planes), and even under seats too. The lack of a hard shell is part of what makes it possible for our Cabin Zero backpacks to fit in small spaces.

We fully reviewed our bags for your convenience and would love for you to check them out. They're great cruise gift ideas for cruise lovers and people who love to travel. They can also simply be stashed away in a stateroom drawer rather than take up precious space under your bed or in a closet on a cruise.

If our model of Cabin Zero bags are too big, and you're looking for a daypack or shoulder bag, they have those too .

Small Tenikle Photography Tripod

We love the play-on-an-ocean dweller this little Tenikle mimics: an octopus, of course!

A Tenikle is essentially a tripod for your phone or a small camera…but much more. (Another way to put it is that it's a grip suction holder for handheld electronics, as its patent describes.) And not only can you get an attachment for it that allows you to affix your phone to the top of the device, like in the photo below…

…but you can also stick a suction cup from one of the tentacles directly on your phone. This is great if you want to stick the other two “arms” of the Tenikle to a window, or wrap them around the pipe on a fence, for example, or even to your car window, while the third arm props up your phone for a selfie.

It's such a smart product, which we're happy to say utilizes silicone as its material, not plastic. Silicone is much better for the environment.

The company is run by a team in California, Hans Dose and his wife, Lydia, which has grown so much during the past five years since Hans originally put his idea out on Kickstarter. (And they've since appeared on Shark Tank and blew up!)

When you buy from Tenikle , you're also supporting a small business.

Waterproofing for Your Phone

If you insist on taking a phone on a water excursion because you want to take photos or need to be reachable by phone or work or family, you will need something to safely pack it in. (We completely understand – we're the same way.)

There are several waterproofing bags that are great for protecting your phone from getting wet if you're going kayaking, on a fishing trip (just in case!), or maybe even exploring waterfalls during a cruise excursion. Or heck, even if you're at the pool, drinking lots of delicious cocktails and get a little too hazy to be particularly extra-careful about your phone getting wet.

We do not recommend these bags for total immersion (like for snorkeling or scuba diving). For that, we recommend investing in a GoPro .

**Be sure you're purchasing the correct size waterproofing bag for your phone model.***

GoPro Waterproof Camera

It's one thing to take your iPhone or mobile device with you kayaking in a waterproof bag. But another to dive into the sea, fully immersed in the water to snorkel or scuba dive. The thought of an iPhone in the ocean gives us anxiety!

That's why we invested in a GoPro . You can take a GoPro in the ocean and stay underwater for a while with a GoPro. (Longer than you can hold your breath, that's for sure!)

We are glad we have one to take with us on cruises. They're fun onboard – for places like the pool or hot tubs – and are definitely handy for excursions.

Skyroam Pocket Wifi Hotspot

We use our Skyroam pocket wifi hotspot device to stay connected online for every vacation we take in Europe, especially. Including river cruises , of course.

We need to stay connected in other countries and on road trips (even within the United States) because we own our own businesses. Maybe you have children at home you need to be able to reach at any time.

Here's why this is one of the best gift ideas for cruise lovers who also need to be connected while they travel (like us, to manage our small businesses on the go): you'll be connected in ports and you'll also be connected to wifi wherever you start and end the cruise.

Some people get a SIM card for the country they'll be in if they're doing a land-only trip. But we are transparent about why we don't do that .

Plus, you're often in multiple countries on cruises and SIM cards often aren't compatible with all of them. But a wifi hotspot will be ready to use wherever there is cell service because that's how it connects. And we love our Skyroam for that purpose.

Also check out:

• Unique Ocean Art for Your Home so You Will Always be near the Sea
• Topsail Steamer Review: Seafood Steamer Pots that Ship Overnight for Free
• OMEGA Sailing Bracelet Review: Premium Accessory for Everyday Wear

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53 Best Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers 2024

Ideas for christmas, birthdays, and first-time cruises.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a family member or friend who loves cruising or is just a plain ol’ cruise addict, you’re in the right place. Lots of gift ideas for cruisers to take on their next cruise vacation.

As someone who has taken several cruises, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find a gift that’s both practical and enjoyable. That’s why I’ve put together these best cruise gift ideas for any avid cruiser, which include ideas for Christmas, birthdays, and even first-time cruises.

From practical items that will make their trips more comfortable to fun and creative goodies that will bring a smile to their faces, these gift ideas for cruisers will undoubtedly be cherished.

My Top 3 Picks: Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

#1 TOP PICK

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Power Strip ✔️ Three Outlets ✔️ Four USB Ports ✔️Five ft Braided Extension Cord

Waterproof Phone Case ✔️ iPhone and Galaxy ✔️ 2 Pack

Packing Cubes ✔️ 8 Piece Set ✔️ Multiple colors

Practical gift ideas for cruisers

For the cruiser in your life, practical gifts can make a big difference in their sailing experience. From essential safety gear to helpful navigation tools, there are gift ideas for cruisers for every budget and skill level that will help them set sail with confidence.

1. Night light or Bathroom Light

A night light or bathroom light can make a world of difference when cruising. Whether used as an inviting beacon in the dark cabin or for late-night trips to the restroom, these lights are essential on every cruise. Night lights and bathroom lights also come in a variety of styles, so you can find one that matches your cruiser’s personality perfectly.

Battery-operated is best for the bathroom as there are no plugs in most cruise room bathrooms.

🎁 Buy your Night Light

2. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a must-have item for cruisers as they often have long days at sea. A well-made stainless steel or insulated water bottle will keep drinks cold and prevent spills. Plus, it’ll come in handy on shore excursions too!

🎁 Buy your Reusable Water Bottle

3. Portable Battery Operated Fan

A small fan is another great gift idea for cruisers. This inexpensive item offers a simple and effective way to cool down a cabin if it gets too hot, while also providing white noise to help with sleep. Plus, it’s lightweight and easy to pack, so your cruiser won’t have to worry about lugging it around.

🎁 Buy your Portable Battery Operated Fan

4. Reusable Insulated Cup

Reusable insulated cups are perfect for keeping drinks cooler on cruises, especially if the provided cups on the ship are small. A good reusable cup will keep liquids cold with a tight-fitting lid that won’t leak. Plus, it’s a great way to be eco-friendly and reduce plastic waste while traveling. Reusable cups come in all shapes and sizes, so you can even find one with a design that matches your cruiser’s style.

🎁 Buy Your Reusable Insulated Cup

5. Wine Tumbler

A cruise wine tumbler is the perfect way for cruisers to enjoy a glass of wine in comfort and style. These stainless steel tumblers are insulated to keep wine and other beverages at the perfect temperature. Plus, they come with a lid and shatter-proof design so you don’t have to worry about spills on your cruise. Personalize it with their name or special message for an extra special touch!

🎁 Buy Your Wine Tumbler

6. Reusable Straws

Reusable straws are a must-have for cruisers who don’t like using candy or edible straws. The gooey texture of these candy straws can turn many cruisers off, but with a reusable one, they won’t have to worry about that issue.

🎁 Buy Your Reusable Straws

7. Over the Door Shoe Rack

An over-the-door shoe rack is a great gift for cruisers who need more storage space. The rack hangs over any door, giving the cruiser extra space to store their shoes, hats, or other items without taking up too much room. Not only does it look neat and tidy in a cabin, but it also helps keep things organized while on board. Plus, it’s easy to pack.

🎁 Buy Your Over the Door Shoe Rack

8. Cruise Lanyard

A lanyard is a great gift for cruisers to hold their sail and sign card. It makes it easy to keep track of the card throughout the cruise, so it can be used for any purchases or activities on board. With a lanyard, there’s no need to worry about misplacing the card or having it slip into an unfamiliar pocket. Also makes it easy to get off and on the ship at destination ports.

🎁 Buy Your Lanyard

9. Magnetics

Magnets make a great gift for cruisers who want to add some home decor to their cabin. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to pack, and you can use them to hang things up on the walls or doors of your cabin. Plus, since most ships have metal walls, ceilings, and doors, magnets provide a secure way to hang up items without the need for nails or hooks.

🎁 Buy Your Magnetics

10. Magnetic Hooks

Magnetic hooks are an excellent gift for cruisers who need extra storage options in their cabin. These small and lightweight hooks can be attached to any metal surface, making it easy to hang clothes or other items without the need for nails or screws.

Not only do they provide extra storage space, but since most cruise ships have metal walls, ceilings, and doors, magnetic hooks can be used in a variety of places to hang items securely. It’s an excellent way to make sure your belongings stay safe and secure while on board.

🎁 Buy Your Magnetic Hooks

11. Travel Organizer – Documents

Cruisers know how important it is to stay organized while on a trip. That’s why a travel organizer is a must-have item for any cruise lover. It will help them keep their passport, travel documents, and other essentials organized in one spot, making it easy to find what they need. Plus, it’s compact enough to fit in their carry-on bag.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Organizer

12. Travel Organizer – Seat Pack

I recently purchased a seat pack organizer for my upcoming road trip. It’s an amazing product because it allows me to store all the items, like tablets, cords, and accessories I need for my journey conveniently in one place. Not only does it keep things neat and organized, but it also keeps them easily accessible so I don’t have to dig around looking for what I need when I’m on the go. I love it! It’s a must-have for any plane or road trip.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Seat Organizer

13. Travel Blanket

A travel blanket is a must-have item for any cruiser. Not only will it keep you warm and cozy on cool nights, but it can also be used as a picnic blanket or beach towel. Travel blankets are lightweight and highly portable, making them ideal for packing in carry-on luggage.

They come in different materials such as cotton, fleece, and microfiber, so you can choose the perfect one for your cruise lover.

🎁 Buy Your Trav e l Blanket

Cruise Line or Cruise Gift Cards-Specific Gift Ideas

14. cruise gift cards.

Gifting cruise line or cruise-specific gift cards is a great way to show your love for the cruiser in your life. Cruise lines such as Carnival , Royal Caribbean , Princess Cruises , and Norwegian Cruise Line offer gift cards that can be used towards the cost of their future cruises, excursions, and onboard amenities such as drinks, specialty restaurants, and wifi.

Not only are these gift cards convenient and practical, but they also provide peace of mind knowing that the cruiser can choose to use them however they like.

🎁 Discounted gift cards are available with AARP if you are a member

15. Cruise T-Shirt

A cruise t-shirt is a fun and creative gift that any cruiser will appreciate. It will allow them to show off their love for cruising, even when not on a ship. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter with fellow cruisers.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise T-Shirts

16. Cruise Hat

A cruise hat is a great fashion accessory for any cruiser. Not only will it help protect you from the sun and wind while on deck, but it can also add a bit of style to your look. Cruise hats come in different styles such as baseball caps, bucket hats, and visors. They also come in a variety of colors and designs that will fit any cruiser’s tastes.

Whether you choose a classic design or something more modern, your cruiser will be sure to love the look and feel of this thoughtful gift.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Hat

17. Cruise Jewelry

If you’re looking for something a bit more special, why not get your cruiser some cruise-inspired jewelry? From necklaces and bracelets to earrings and watches featuring classic nautical motifs such as anchors, compasses, and ship wheels, there are plenty of options available. This gift will be a reminder of their love for the sea even when they can’t cruise!

🎁 Buy Cruise Jewelry

18. Cruise Cabin Door Decorations

Cruise cabin door decorations are a great way to show off your cruiser’s style while also adding a touch of personality to their stateroom. These decorations come in a variety of styles, from classic nautical themes to unique and funky designs. Not only will they make the cabin feel more like home, but they can also help identify it among crowded corridors.

Plus, they’re sure to bring a smile every time your cruiser enters their room. So give them the gift of style with some cruise cabin door decor today!

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Cabin Door Decorations

19. Duck and Duck Tags

Ducks are a great way for cruisers to make memories throughout their trip. Cruisers hide these ducks around the ship, either in public areas or inside cabins, for other travelers to find. The tags that come with the ducks include information like a website address or a message so those who find them can enter their experience on an online form.

You can go to the original Cruising Ducks Facebook group and read about the story behind the ducks.

This fun activity encourages exploration of the cruise ship and helps create memorable experiences with family and friends. Plus, duck tags are a wonderful keepsake to bring back home from the trip, as they will always remind your cruiser of their cruise adventures!

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Ducks with Tags

20. Cruise Count Down Board

The perfect gift for any cruise lover is a cruise countdown board! This adorable and practical memento will help your cruiser keep track of the days leading up to the big voyage.

Not only does it offer an easy way to mark off each day until the departure date, but it also serves as a fun reminder of all the excitement that awaits them on their cruise. So get them this special gift as they start counting down the days until their ship sets sail.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise Count Down Board

21. Cruise-Themed Gift Baskets

Cruise-themed gift baskets are fun and creative gifts for cruisers. These usually include items that a cruiser may need during their vacation such as snacks, sunscreen, lotion, chapstick, and bug spray.

You can even customize the basket to match the cruise line or destination that your cruiser is visiting! Cruise-themed gift baskets make great gifts for those who love spending time on the open seas.

🎁 Buy Your Cruise-Themed Gift Basket

Personal Care Gift Ideas

22. hair conditioner.

A hair conditioner is a great gift for any cruiser! It will help keep their hair healthy and look great during the trip, especially in the salty sea air. Shampoo and body wash are provided on most cruise lines but not hair conditioner.

So, giving them a bottle of quality hair conditioner can be a real lifesaver! It’s also lightweight and easy to pack, making it a great addition to any carry-on luggage.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Size Hair Conditioner

23. Reef Safe Sunscreen

Reef-safe sunscreen is another great gift for any cruiser! It’s important to be mindful of protecting yourself from sunburns while on a cruise, so gifting this type of sunscreen will help give them peace of mind.

Reef-safe sunscreen works just like regular sunscreen but it doesn’t contain any chemicals that can harm coral reefs and other marine life. That means it’s not only better for them, but also the environment!

🎁 Buy Your Reef Safe Sunscreen

24. Laundry Bag

A laundry bag is also a great gift for any cruiser! It will make washing and carrying clothes during their cruise much easier. Not all ships have washers and dryers onboard, so if you plan to do some hand-washing while on the ship, having a dedicated bag for your clothes can help keep them organized.

Plus, these bags are lightweight and easy to store, so they won’t take up too much space in your luggage. If you want to wash clothes while on a cruise it’s very easy to tote them to the laundry facilities!

🎁 Buy Your Laundry Bag

25. Laundry Detergent Sheets

Laundry detergent sheets are a great gift idea for cruisers. These compact and lightweight sheets dissolve quickly in the wash, leaving your clothes smelling fresh and clean. In addition, they make it easy to measure out just the right amount of detergent needed for each load.

🎁 Buy Your Laundry Detergent Sheets

26. Fabric Softener Sheets

Fabric softener sheets are another great gift for cruisers. They make washing and drying clothes on a cruise much more comfortable. These small but mighty sheets reduce static cling, keep your clothes looking and feeling softer, and leave them smelling clean and fresh.

They also help to reduce wrinkles in shirts and dresses, making it easier to stay looking sharp while cruising!

🎁 Buy Your Fabric Softener Sheets

27. Travel-Sized Essentials Package

Travel-sized essentials make great gifts for cruisers. They help to keep all of your must-have items together in one place – no more searching through bags or packing cubes for the item you need! These packages may include sunscreen, travel-sized toiletries, motion sickness remedies, and conditioner.

Having these items readily available makes it easier for travelers to stay comfortable and protected while onboard a ship. This is especially beneficial for travelers who are prone to seasickness or skin sensitivity due to sun exposure.

The convenience of having all these items in one bag also makes life easier when going through security, as they all fit into one container!

🎁 Buy a Man’s Travel-Sized Essentials Package

🎁 Buy a Woman’s Travel-Sized Essentials Package

28. Sea-Bands

Sea-Bands are another great gift for cruisers. These acupressure wristbands help to prevent seasickness and motion sickness by providing pressure on the Nei-Kuan point. They offer a non-drowsy, drug-free relief from nausea, dizziness, and vomiting associated with motion sickness.

Seabands are adjustable, comfortable to wear, and reusable. Other sea-sickness remedies that are great for cruisers include ginger capsules, patches, antihistamines, and scopolamine tablets. All of these options can help travelers enjoy their trip without the worry of feeling unwell due to motion sickness.

🎁 Buy Your Sea-Bands

29. Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray

With tight quarters on a cruise ship, you may want to have Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray. It leaves your cabin bathroom smelling fresh and clean. Simply spray the water in the bowl with Poo-Pourri Toilet Spray before using the toilet to prevent odors before they begin.

🎁 Buy Your Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toliet Spray

Water Proof for Beach Destinations or Rainy Days

30. Waterproof Phone Pouch Case

A waterproof phone case is a must-have for a cruise enthusiast who loves snorkeling, kayaking, or other water activities. It will keep their phone dry and protected from water damage while they’re enjoying the ocean.

🎁 Buy 2 Pack of Waterproof Phone Case

31. Waterproof Belt Pack

A waterproof belt pack is a great gift for cruisers that will protect their belongings from rain, sea spray, or sand. This lightweight bag is perfect for use during activities such as swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling.

It features an adjustable waistband which makes it comfortable to wear while at the beach or poolside. The 100% waterproof material helps to ensure that all items inside remain dry. The belt pack is great for storing phones, wallets, and other small items that are needed close at hand.

🎁 Buy Your Waterproof Pouch

32. Beach Towel Clips

Beach towel clips are a practical gift for any cruiser. They allow cruisers to keep their towels in place on windy days, ensuring they don’t blow away. They’re also great for securing a towel to a lounge chair, so it doesn’t slip off.

🎁 Buy Your Beach Towel Clips

33. Waterproof Dry Bag

A waterproof dry bag is the perfect gift for a cruiser that needs to keep their items protected from water. This lightweight and durable bag features a roll-top closure system which is designed to keep all of its contents dry even when exposed to rain, ocean spray, or other forms of moisture.

It’s also great for use in swimming pools or hot tubs, as its contents stay completely dry no matter how much it is submerged. This bag is perfect for carrying phones, wallets, and other small items while on a cruise or beach outing. It’s an ideal gift for any cruiser who loves water activities!

🎁 Buy Your Waterproof Dry Bag

34. Water Shoes

Water shoes are an essential item for any cruiser who loves to explore the ocean. They protect feet from sharp rocks and other underwater objects, while also providing a secure grip on slippery surfaces.

Perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or swimming in the sea, water shoes keep your feet comfortable as you traverse both wet and dry terrain. The mesh fabric of these shoes also helps keep them light and breathable so you can traverse any terrain without worry.

🎁 Buy Your Water Shoes

Traveling or Packing Accessories

35. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great gift for any cruiser! These lightweight fabric cubes provide an easy and efficient way to organize items in luggage. They come in a variety of sizes, from small ones that can hold underwear and socks, to larger ones for shirts and pants.

Not only does this make packing easier, but it also helps cruisers keep their belongings properly organized during their trip. Packing cubes are also great for keeping items such as jewelry or electronics organized and secure while traveling. Plus, they’re easy to store in a carry-on bag so you can access them quickly and easily!

🎁 Buy Your Set of Packing Cubes

36. Compression Packing Cubes

If you want to save space as well as be organized then compression packing cubes are a great way for travelers to organize their belongings and save space in their suitcases. They are lightweight, come in various sizes, and feature 100% rip-stop nylon fabrics which make them durable and long-lasting.

The cubes have mesh panels that allow you to easily identify items without opening the cube. Compression packing cubes also help prevent wrinkles on clothes while traveling – making them an ideal tool for frequent flyers!

🎁 Buy Your Set of Compression Packing Cubes

37. Travel Wallet

Travel wallets make an excellent gift for any cruiser who likes to stay organized on their trips. These wallets have lots of compartments so you can keep all your important cards, documents, and cash in one place.

They’re also lightweight and slim – perfect for storing in a pocket or bag. Many travel wallets come with RFID-blocking technology to protect personal information from being stolen. Best of all, these wallets are available in a variety of styles, colors, and designs so the recipient can customize their wallet to suit their own taste.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Wallet

38. Backpack

A travel backpack or day pack is a great gift option for cruisers who need to carry their belongings around on the go. They come in different sizes, styles, and colors so that the recipient can find one that suits their needs. These backpacks are made of lightweight materials and have plenty of pockets and compartments for organizing items.

A well-crafted backpack will provide comfort and support when carrying items, making it the perfect travel companion. Travel backpacks can also be used to store souvenirs, cameras, and other important items while on the go.

🎁 Buy Your Day Backpack

39. Luggage Tags

Cruise luggage tag holders that are transparent are made to help identify your luggage quickly and safely deliver it to your cabin. The vibrant and eye-catching colors guarantee that your baggage will be easy to spot in the crowd, ensuring hassle-free disembarkation at your destination.

🎁 Buy Cruise Luggage Tags

40. Toiletry Bag

A toiletry bag is an essential item for cruisers who want to stay organized during their travels. Travel toiletry bags come in different sizes, styles, and materials so the recipient can find one that meets their needs.

These bags are designed with multiple compartments and sections, making it easy to store all the necessary items like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and more. Toiletry bags are also waterproof and durable so they can withstand the wear and tear of travel while keeping their contents safe.

🎁 Buy Hanging Travel T oiletry Bag

41. Travel Journal

A travel journal is a thoughtful gift for a cruiser who loves to document their trips. It will allow them to jot down notes and memories, record their travel experiences, and keep track of their adventures.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Journal

42. Apple Airtags or Google Tiles

Apple Airtags and Google Tile are great gifts for cruisers who want to keep track of their luggage. These tags work with a smartphone app that allows you to locate your lost possessions with just a few taps.

The Apple Airtag and the Google Tile can be attached to any item – such as a suitcase, laptop bag, or even keys – helping make sure they don’t get left behind.

🎁 Buy Apple Airtags or Google Tile

43. Jewelry Organizer Travel

Jewelry Organizer Travel is a great gift for cruisers who want to keep their jewelry organized and secure while they travel. These bags come with different pockets, compartments, and holders that allow you to store your jewelry safely and neatly.

The organizer is also designed with multiple zipper closures so it can protect the contents from dust and dirt.

🎁 Buy Your Jewelry Organizer for Travel

44. Passport and Document Holder

Having a passport and document holder is a must for any traveler, especially cruisers. The holder will keep all of your important documents in one place so you don’t have to worry about losing them. Plus, it can help provide extra security by keeping all of your travel information safe and secure.

🎁 Buy Your Passport Holder

45. Portable Luggage Scale

A portable luggage scale is an invaluable tool when packing for a cruise. This allows travelers to check the weight of their suitcases before they arrive at the port and avoid any extra fees or hassle from airline companies.

Having a reliable and accurate scale can help ensure that travelers are able to stay within the weight limits of their suitcases and not have to pay any extra fees.

🎁 Buy Your Portable Luggage Scale

Tech gadgets and accessories for tech-savvy cruisers

46. An extension cord or non-surge-protected power strip

Non-surge-protected power strips are essential for tech-savvy cruisers who want to keep all their gadgets powered up and ready to go at any time. These power strips have multiple outlets, including USB ports, which enable you to connect multiple devices or appliances without overloading the ship’s circuit breaker.

It’s important to note that surge-protected power strips are not permitted on cruise ships.

🎁 Buy Your Power Strip

47. Portable Charger or Portable Charging Bank

A portable charger is an excellent gift for a cruiser who loves to take photos and videos. Having your phone or camera die while you’re out on an excursion can be frustrating. With a portable charger, cruisers can keep their devices charged and ready to capture every moment of their trip.

🎁 Buy Your Portable Charger

48. Phone Charging Cord

Phone charging cords are essential for travelers who depend on their cell phones and other devices while they travel. Having a spare phone charger is always a good idea when packing for a cruise, as it can be difficult to find outlets in different areas of the ship.

🎁 Buy Your iPhone Charging Cord

49. Kindle or Tablet

A Kindle or tablet is an excellent gift for a cruiser who loves to read. It’s a convenient way to hold multiple books without taking up too much space in their luggage. Plus, they can download books before the trip, so they’ll have plenty of reading material on the ship.

🎁 Buy Your Kindle

50. Travel Alarm Clock

A travel alarm clock is a great gift for cruisers who need to keep track of time and wake up on time. It’s small, lightweight, and easily fits into a suitcase or carry-on bag. Travel alarm clocks are usually equipped with multiple alarms, so they can be used to set different wake-up times for different days of the trip.

🎁 Buy Your Travel Alarm Clock

51. Binoculars

Binoculars are a great gift for cruisers who love to explore the world around them. Not only do binoculars allow you to see distant objects in greater detail, but they also help you spot wildlife and other points of interest from far away. Look for a pair that is lightweight and has an adjustable focus for the best performance.

🎁 Buy Your Binoculars

52. Headphones or Ear Pods

Headphones or Ear Pods are a must-have for cruisers who need to block out noise and enjoy their music while on the ship. A good pair of headphones helps reduce background noise, allowing them to better enjoy podcasts, audiobooks, and their favorite tunes. Look for a pair with good sound quality and a comfortable fit for best results.

I absolutely love these earbuds! They have a magnetic feature that allows you to easily connect them around your neck, ensuring they never get misplaced. Such a brilliant design!

🎁 Buy Your Wireless Headphones

A GoPro camera is the perfect gift for a cruiser who loves to capture their memories while on board. It’s small in size, rugged, and can be mounted virtually anywhere – making it easy to take high-quality photos or videos from any angle. Many models come with waterproof housing, allowing them to take stunning shots underwater as well.

I love mine because I can capture photos and videos in and out of the water!

🎁 Buy Your GoPro Camera

Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ) For Gift Ideas for Cruisers

Answering common questions about the best gift ideas for cruisers can help make choosing the right gift a breeze. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding gifting cruisers:

The best gifts for cruise lovers include items such as waterproof dry bags, packing cubes, toiletry bags, cruise-themed items, and tech gadgets like portable chargers and headphones.

The amount you spend will depend on your budget and the person receiving the gift. Generally speaking, it’s wise to choose gifts that are meaningful and useful rather than extravagant or expensive.

Unique gift ideas for cruisers include items such as a personalized passport holder, a waterproof camera case, a beach bag with multiple compartments, or themed t-shirts and hats.

Yes! Personalized gifts are a great way to show your cruise lover how much you care. Consider gift ideas for cruisers like picture frames, personalized luggage tags, or even a custom-made photo book of all their cruising memories.

Great gift ideas for first-time cruisers include items such as an onboard credit card holder, a cruise line-themed t-shirt, or a fun activity book about the ship.

Yes! Items such as passport holders, packing cubes, and portable chargers are all great gift ideas for cruisers that will make preparing for the trip easier and more enjoyable.

When looking for gift ideas for cruisers, it’s important to think about the type of traveler they are. Are they beach lovers? A history buff? Adventure seeker? Taking the time to consider their interests will help you find the perfect gift that reflects their personality and love for cruising.

The Wrap-Up: Gift Ideas for Cruise Lovers

Giving a gift for Christmas or a cruiser’s birthday can bring extra happiness and thrill to their celebration. You may want to think about items that can make their trip more comfortable or fun, such as noise-canceling headphones, waterproof pouches, or a GoPro camera.

Choose something special from our Gift Ideas for Cruisers list that reflects their adventurous nature and love for cruising!

First-time cruisers typically need all of the essentials to make the most out of their voyage. Useful gifts include dry bags, a waterproof phone case, and a portable charger that will help them stay connected while away from home. Making sure they have everything they need for the trip is sure to ensure they have an unforgettable experience!

Giving gifts to your favorite cruiser is always fun and exciting. Whether you’re gifting for a birthday, Christmas, or even as they embark on their first cruise, thoughtful items that speak to the cruiser’s needs and interests are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Consider these gift ideas to ensure you pick the perfect present every time!

Gifting doesn’t have to be difficult and it should be an enjoyable experience for both the giver and receiver. Don’t forget also to include presents for yourself, like a waterproof dry bag or a GoPro camera, so that you can join in on the fun too!

With these gift ideas for cruisers, you’re sure to make any cruiser’s voyage even better. Whether they’ve been exploring the world’s waters for years or are just venturing out on their first cruise, you can help ensure they make the most of their adventure. Happy sailing!

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Melodie Rush is an avid traveler and a passionate explorer. Born in North Carolina, my journey from road trips with my parents to exploring diverse cultures across five continents has fueled my love for practical and immersive travel. Join me and Gary as we share straightforward insights, must-dos, and travel tips to make your adventures seamless and memorable. Let's explore the world with purpose!

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Perfect Holiday Gift Ideas for Cruises

Many travelers, when they have experienced their first cruise, they will book many future cruise vacations time and time again. 

Many guests even book the next cruise with guest services while still on board their current cruise.

This often comes with perks offered by the cruise line, such as extra onboard credit, a low deposit payment, or offers of complimentary shore excursions included in the price.

And for those friends and family members, you suddenly have the perfect gift ideas for cruises. Great! All at once, birthdays, holidays and Christmas are taken care of, and your shopping list suddenly becomes much easier. 

And if you are someone who loves to sail from port to port in luxury, then these gift ideas for cruises are perfect for your wishlist. After all, it’s most often the little luxury non-essentials that we don’t need, but would like that make the ideal gift.

Quick navigation

Top 12 gift ideas for a cruise vacation

1. in-cabin surprise.

Did you know that once you know which cruise your friend or family member is going on, you can call the cruise line and arrange an in-cabin surprise for them? For example, have a bottle of bubbly delivered to their cabin when they check in, or a selection of chocolate strawberries or a basket of fresh fruits delivered on their first morning? There are many things to choose from, and the cruise line is only too happy to arrange this.

You book and pay over the phone. Remember to ask the cruise line not to show this anywhere on the customer confirmation, so it remains a secret and is a surprise for your friends when they are on board.

2. On board spa treatment

All modern luxury cruise ships have fantastic spa and wellness centers.

For some cabin categories, guests have access to a smaller, luxurious spa restricted only to those cruise customers.

Call the cruise line to book a spa treatment for your friend! Often you can do this up to 2 days before the cruise starts. There is even a spa menu for treatments suitable for 13 to 17 years olds.

Prices can vary depending on ship and sailing, so talk to the cruise line and let them know you want spa gift ideas that fit your budget.

3. Specialty restaurant dinner for 2

Of course breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included in the cost of a cruise. Dinner is served in one of the main dining rooms, and the menu changes regularly. But in addition, there are several specialty restaurants to choose from. And this costs a little extra.

While the main dining rooms offer great food, the specialty restaurants go above and beyond, and you can have a fantastic gourmet experience on board. An evening at one of the specialty restaurants is sure to be appreciated and is an ideal gift idea for cruises.

Just call the cruise line, and they can help you. Alternatively if you know the name of the cruise ship, then check out the website of that particular ship and you can easily see the specialty restaurants on board. Choose the one that suits the gift recipient the best and book directly with the cruise line.

4. Water-resistant, lightweight backpack 

Do you have adventure-loving friends and family that love cruising? Then any shore excursions they do could be an activity, from hiking and climbing to water sports.

A water-resistant, lightweight backpack for those full days in port is a life-saver to carry all your gear, and it doesn’t matter if the bag gets wet, it keeps all your valuables safe and dry. This is an often overlooked packing essential that makes a great gift.

5. Cruise power strip with USB adapters sockets

If you are a family sharing a cabin or you just carry a lot of electronic gadgets with you when travelling, then you need to be able to charge without a problem.

Cabins have limited USB adapter sockets and power points, so a handy little travel power strip is the answer. And it takes up zero space in your packing. It makes a great stocking-stuffer.

6. Anti-theft cross-body bag

For visits to cities where there are sure to be crowded, keeping an eye on your wallet, camera and cell phone can be tricky when sightseeing. Reduce your risk of being pick-pocketed by keeping valuables safe and close to you with a cross-body bag.

There are some super stylish alternatives out there for both men and women. Often with extra pockets to keep cabin keys, city maps, and sunscreen within easy reach too.

7. Insulated mugs for refills of hot or cold drinks

Who doesn’t love to get a refill of your favorite beverage at any time from the buffet restaurant? Make things safe and easy by bringing your refill mugs to keep it hot or cold, and minimize the risk of spreading germs by using plastic mugs from the counter.

Pick up a travel mug for your gift recipient who loves to cruise; if it’s nautical-themed, it’s even better!

8. Travel-size hanging soft jewelry case

A must for anyone wanting to take a selection of their favorite jewelry for those special nights on board the cruise ship is a travel size handing soft jewelry case. Keep all your jewelry safe, organized, and in one place.

Using a hang hooking where it’s easy to reach – like on the back of your cabin bathroom door, for example – you also keep it out of the way in a cabin with limited space.

9. Plastic water filter bottle 

Shore excursions can last a whole day. Fill up your water bottle before you leave the cruise ship in port then you’ll have something to drink all day with you. And this way you can minimize the expense of buying bottled water.

10. Binoculars

Great for children and adults alike, if you are going on a nature adventure on a shore day, then binoculars are essential!

Especially if you are traveling to destinations such as Alaska, Norway, or the Arctic, you can quickly increase your chances of spotting unique birds and wildlife with good binoculars – a perfect gift.

11. Packing cube luggage organizers

Packing suitcases for the whole family is made much easier when using packing cubes. One for each family member, color coordinated, or one for each daily outfit, you can design your system for easy access to clothes as you unpack on board. These make an easy, lightweight gift for cruise friends and family members.

12. Leather passport and vaccine card holder

Not many of us spend money on passport holders, but they help you keep your travel documents all in one place. It also keeps your passport from getting torn or damaged when traveling, which can make it invalid.

As many countries require proof of vaccination when we travel, the latest good quality passport holders also come with a pocket to keep your vaccine card safe.

Stocking Stuffers – The top 8 Christmas cruise gift ideas that do not take up extra luggage space

Past cruise customers have given up their best tips for stocking-stuffers at Christmas time for cruise guests who about have enough space left over in their luggage to squeeze in a few of these fun essentials:

• Cruise plaque with a funny nautical saying or slogan to decorate the cruise cabin door
• On board, flip-flops to use around the pool area
• Magnetic hooks for cabin walls
• Waterproof pouch for your cell phone and cruise card/room key 
• Plastic luggage tag holders
• Digital hanging scale for weighing luggage
• Hanging Travel Makeup Bag
• Soft fold-away waterproof beach bag

Need more tips on cruising? We’re here to help!

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Meet the author: Sarah has created and booked hundreds of travel itineraries for thousands of customers during a career in the travel industry that spans 20 years. Having worked hand in hand with cruise lines, hotels, airlines and tour operators worldwide, she offers inspiring & detailed insights in the world of travel and tourism.

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12 Perfect Christmas Gifts for Cruise Lovers

By Carnival Cruise Line

• A Paid Cruise!
• A Cruise-Themed T-Shirt
• A Digital Video Camera
• A New Set of Luggage
• Snorkeling Gear
• A Travel Map
• A Waterproof Bag
• Power Adapters
• A Cruise-Themed Christmas Tree Ornament
• A Fancy Bottle of Wine
• A Digital Picture Frame
• Onboard Credit

The holiday season can be a stressful time, especially when it comes to finding gifts for all your close friends and family members. Finding a meaningful gift can be challenging, but it helps to know some of their interests when looking for a gift.

If you have friends or family members that love cruising, you’re in luck! There are lots of gifts that are perfect for people that love to go on cruises. Here are 12 gifts perfectly suited for cruise lovers:

1. A Paid Cruise!

If you feel like doing something extra special for the cruise lover in your life, a cruise is perhaps the most appropriate gift. Instead of simply giving them a physical item, you will be providing them with days (or weeks) of memories.

2. A Cruise-Themed T-Shirt

If gifting a cruise isn’t in this year’s Christmas budget, a cruise-themed T-shirt can be an appropriate (and more affordable) gift option. Best of all, cruise shirts aren’t limited to being worn just on a cruise. If the person you’re gifting to truly loves cruises, chances are they’ll wear that shirt every chance they get.

3. A Digital Video Camera

A digital video camera is an excellent way to remember special events — cruises included! There are a few excellent options on the market, depending on the types of activities your cruise lover prefers doing during their cruises.

If possible, remember to also include a waterproof case. That will help ensure that their video camera stays safe and can even go with them into the pool or the beach!

4. A New Set of Luggage

Frequent travelers and cruisers get a lot of use out of their luggage and chances are their current set is showing more than a little wear and tear. A new set of luggage is a great way to provide a practical gift. You can also try to match their color and style preferences, further personalizing the gift.

5. Snorkeling Gear

If that cruise lover also loves getting into the water, snorkeling gear can be a useful addition in their luggage. Since cruise-goers have the opportunity to swim in lots of new and exotic waters, snorkeling gear is a perfect way to see all there is to see in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean , The Bahamas or wherever else the cruise takes them .

6. A Travel Map

Frequent cruise-goers tend to visit a lot of places around the world — many of them on a cruise! A travel map they can hang on the wall and add pins to is a great way to help them remember all of the experiences they’ve had around the world.

7. A Waterproof Bag

Between the pool deck and the sandy beaches, water is a fact of life on a cruise. A waterproof bag can be a useful way to keep the essentials — such as a phone, wallet, cash and keys — from getting wet and ruined.

8. Power Adapters

So many people bring phones, tablets, laptops and digital video cameras with them when they travel — and chances are, your cruise lover is one of them. Having so many different devices can make it difficult to charge everything at once from the stateroom. That makes a power adapter another perfect and practical gift.

9. A Cruise-Themed Christmas Tree Ornament

While your cruise-goer only gets to see a Christmas tree ornament once a year, it’s a great way to memorialize their love for cruises. There are lots of different styles out there, and you can even make a personalized Christmas ornament with their name on it.

10. A Fancy Bottle of Wine

At Carnival, cruise-goers over the age of 21 can bring one bottle of wine on board — why not make it a fancy one!

A nice bottle of wine can be the perfect send-off if you know a cruise lover that is going to be on a cruise during the holidays. Since Carnival cruises have festivities that run from November 24 through Christmas Day, there’s a good chance that bottle of wine will be a part of their holiday festivities.

11. A Digital Picture Frame

With so many photos taken on smartphones and digital cameras, it can be difficult to remember truly special and memorable photos. A digital picture frame is a perfect complement for frequent cruise-goers. They’ll be able to put one or more photos from each of their cruises on their dedicated “cruise frame.”

12. Onboard Credit

If you aren’t sure exactly what to get that cruise-lover, onboard credit is always a safe bet. They’ll be able to enjoy one of the many meals, drinks, excursions or other events available on board, and they’ll have you to thank! If you want to enhance their cruise experience but don’t want to pay for the entire trip, an onboard credit is a perfect compromise.

These are just a few examples of the many different gifts you can get for cruise lovers. The most important thing is to get them a gift that is meaningful and comes from the heart. If you can do that, then anything you get them is sure to be appreciated.

Related articles

Plan for fun.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

Christmas Cruise Gift Ideas For Cruise Lovers On Your Christmas List

Updated: Jan 25

Have a cruiser on your Christmas list? Explore Christmas Cruise Gift Ideas for kids, teens, women, men, couples, families, single cruiser - from gifting an entire cruise to stocking stuffers, we have ideas for you!

Disclosure: genXsolo is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Ultimate Gift: Gifting a Cruise

Experience Gifts: Gifts the Cruiser Can Use Onboard

Universal Gift Ideas: Perfect for Any Cruiser

Gift Baskets

Gift Ideas for Holiday Cruises

Stocking Stuffers

Additional Resources

Introduction to Christmas Cruise Gift Ideas

Looking for the best cruise gift ideas or the perfect gift for someone going on a cruise? You've come to the right place!

Whether it's for a holiday voyage or a tropical getaway, our guide offers tailored gift ideas for every kind of cruiser. From essential items to luxury experiences, we've got you covered.

Introduction to the Ultimate Gift ideas for cruise lovers

Are you looking for a gift that really stands out? Something that offers not just a moment, but an experience?

If so, gifting a cruise might be the perfect present! In this section, we’ll cover how you can purchase a perfect cruise gift idea for someone special and then wrap up this big surprise in a way they’ll never forget!

How to Purchase a Cruise as a Gift

Through a Travel Agent (Recommended) : A specialized cruise agent offers personalized advice and handles the booking for you, ensuring a seamless gifting experience.

Online Booking via the Cruise Line's Website (Recommended) : Directly book through a reputable cruise line's website for more control over the selection and payment process. Just make sure to double-check all information for accuracy.

Contact the Cruise Line : While this method offers personalization, it's often more time-consuming than using a travel agent or booking online.

Cruise Line or Cruise Ship Gift Certificates : This option allows your gift recipient to choose their own cruise adventure, but may limit them to specific cruise lines.

Ideas for Presenting the Cruise Gift

In a Creative Card : Craft a handmade card that hints at the cruise destination and tuck the booking confirmation or gift certificate inside.

With Themed Goodies : Accompany the booking confirmation or gift certificate with themed items like sunglasses and sunscreen for a tropical cruise.

Digital Surprise : Lead them on a mini-email scavenger hunt, with the last clue revealing the booking confirmation or gift certificate.

A Pre-Packaged "Travel Kit" : Create a travel kit with essentials like a guidebook and toiletries, inserting the cruise booking details inside.

With a Fun, Personalized Jib Jab Card : Create a fun and personalized message and either send it digitally or play it for them in person.

Gift-wrapped Globe or Map : Wrap up a small globe or map and pin the cruise destination, placing the booking details inside the wrapping.

Themed Breakfast or Dinner : Serve a meal that's themed after the cruise destination, like a tropical breakfast for a Caribbean cruise, and reveal the gift then.

With a personalized ornament : Create a personalized ornament with the cruise date, etc., from a reputable place such as Ornament Shop - click the link below for free personalization and shipping on destination and vacation ornaments.

Experience Gifts: Gifts Cruisers Can Use On Their Vacation

For information on where to purchase onboard experiences, see the section above: ''How to Purchase a Cruise", as the same options apply for gifting onboard cruise experiences.

Gift Shore Excursions to Enjoy at a Cruise Port

A shore excursion voucher is a pre-booked experience that allows the cruiser to explore and enjoy activities at various port stops during the cruise.

It's an exceptional way for cruisers to make the most of their time ashore, offering organized activities that range from cultural tours to adventurous activities.

Great for: All Cruisers. Cruise excursions are available for all all activity levels and ages. Be sure to check with the cruise line or travel agent for details.

Onboard Spa Voucher

Unwind and rejuvenate with a spa day on the cruise.

Great for: Women, Men, Couples, Elderly, and many Teens enjoy these activities as well.

Private Photography Session on the Cruise Vacation

Capture memories on board with a private session from the ship’s professional photographer.

Great for: Families, Couples, Special Occasions

Cruise Ship Hair Salon and Barber Voucher

Stay stylish even at sea with a fresh haircut or styling session.

Great for: Women, Men, Elderly

Indoor Skydiving or Surf Simulator Session Offered on Many Cruise Ships

Some cruise ships offer exciting onboard activities like skydiving and surf simulators.

Great for: Adventurers, Teens, Families

Massage for Relaxation Seekers or Couples

Enjoy a relaxing spa day as an individual or as a couple.

Great for: Teens, Adults, Couples, Elderly

Ice Skating or Rollerblading Pass

Some cruise ships have ice skating rinks or rollerblading tracks.

Great for: Families, Teens, Kids

Specialty Dining Experience

Elevate the dining experience with a reservation at one of the ship's specialty restaurants.

Great for: Couples, Families, Luxury Cruisers

Drink Package - Offered On Most Cruise Lines

A beverage package is a pre-purchased plan that allows cruisers to enjoy a variety of drinks without worrying about the cost accumulating during their trip.

These packages can provide significant savings and convenience, especially for those who plan to indulge, and therefore are great Christmas cruise gift ideas for cruise lovers!

Beverage Package with Alcohol: This package allows cruisers to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, wine, and beer. It's a convenient way to enjoy beverages without worrying about racking up a bill at the end of the cruise. Great for: Adults who enjoy alcoholic beverages.

Premium Coffee or Tea Package: Elevate your morning or afternoon ritual with a selection of high-quality coffees and teas. This package is a treat for those who appreciate finer brews. Great for: Coffee Lovers, Tea Lovers, Early Risers.

Soda Package: This package provides unlimited access to soda and a selection of other non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise. It's a cost-effective option for families or individuals who prefer non-alcoholic drinks. Great for: Kids, Teens, Non-Alcohol Drinking Cruisers, All Cruisers.

These beverage packages can simplify the cruise experience, offering convenience and potentially adding value to your vacation.

Universal Cruise Gift Ideas for All Cruisers

Whether they're seasoned cruisers or setting sail for the first time, there are certain gifts that every cruiser will find indispensable, enjoyable, or downright essential.

This section aims to provide you with a comprehensive list of items suitable for anyone planning a serious cruise vacation, covering practical necessities and delightful surprises alike.

Gift The Essentials

Travel insurance.

Give the gift of peace of mind with coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Suitable for: All Cruisers

Luggage, Luggage Tags, Compression Packing Cubes

Give the luggage essentials that can make the packing and travel portions a breeze, and compression packing cubes that will help organize and save space.

International Power Adapter

[ Click Here for Power Adapters ]

Essential for international cruises.

Entertainment Gifts

Noise-cancelling headphones.

Enhance the onboard experience by blocking out distractions.

Suitable for: Teens, Adults

Travel-Size Board Games

Compact and easy to pack for entertainment during cozy evenings onboard.

Suitable for: Families, Couples, All Cruisers

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Enhance the cruise experience with music.

Suitable for: Teens, Young Adults, Music Lovers

Waterproof Deck of Cards

A compact option for entertainment.

Suitable for: All Cruisers, Families

Audiobook Subscription

Endless options for listening.

Suitable for: Book Lovers, All Cruisers

Eco-Friendly Gifts

Collapsible water bottle.

Convenient for staying hydrated and easy to stow away.

Suitable for: Active Cruisers, All Cruisers

Reusable Travel Coffee Mug

Keeps drinks hot and is eco-friendly.

Suitable for: Adults, Eco-conscious Cruisers

Stainless Steel Straws

Sustainable and handy for drinks.

Suitable for: Eco-conscious Cruisers, All Cruisers

Comfort and Convenience

Quick-dry travel towel or water shoes.

[ Click Here to Find Towels ]

Essentials for water-based activities.

First Aid Kit, Travel Pill Organizer, Motion Sickness Medication, Bug Repellent

[ Click Here for Medicine Aids ]

For health basics and organization.

Inflatable Travel Pillow or Neck Pillow

Provides neck support during transit.

Leisure and Adventure

Digital camera.

For capturing high-quality memories.

Suitable for: Adults, Photography Enthusiasts

Dry Bag or Water Resistant Bag

Essentials for water-based shore excursions and time at the pool deck.

Suitable for: Adventure Seekers, All Cruisers

Snorkel Gear Set

For underwater exploration.

Suitable for: Active Cruisers, Adventure Seekers, Kids, Teens

GoPro Action Camera

Captures action-packed activities.

Suitable for: Adventure Seekers, Teens

Sleep Mask with Built-in Bluetooth Speakers

Ensures a peaceful night's sleep.

Suitable for: All Cruisers, Music Lovers

Novelty T-Shirts

Get creative with themes for each family member or for the holiday season cruise.

Cruise Gift Basket

Creative and thoughtful Gifts For the Cruise Lover

Imagine getting a gift that's like a treasure chest filled with cool stuff you love. That's what a gift basket is all about!

These are awesome because you can pick things that match what the person you're giving it to likes.

Whether it's for Christmas on a cruise or a cruise planned for a later time, a gift basket is a super generous idea.

You can make these baskets all sorts of themes and styles, so they're great for everyone.

In the next sections, we'll give you some awesome ideas for Christmas Cruise Gift Baskets made especially for kids, teens, women, men, and couples.

Gift Basket for Kids

Items to Include:

Children's Activity Book or Coloring Book: Keeps little hands busy and stimulates creativity.

Non-Toxic Crayons or Markers: Safe for use and perfect for coloring in their new books.

Small, Safe Toys or Stickers: Lightweight and easy to pack, these items provide quick entertainment.

Kid-Friendly Snacks (fruit gummies, pretzels): Tasty and easy-to-eat optio ns for litt le ones.

Travel Journal to Document Their Adventure: Encourages kids to write or draw about their experiences, creating a keepsake for the future.

Reusable Sippy Cup or Water Bottle with Fun Design: Makes staying hydrated fun and fuss-free.

Disposable Camera to Capture Memories: Simple to use and great for encouraging an interest in photography.

Bathing suits, flip flops, vacation pajamas: summer wear is practical, yet it can get the little ones excited for their upcoming cruise vacation.

Travel Board Games - to keep the little ones busy and entertained during travel

This basket aims to keep kids entertained and engaged, providing both educational and fun items that are travel-friendly.

Gift Basket for Teens

Bluetooth Earbuds or Noise-Cancelling Headphones [ Link ]: High-quality audio for listening to music or watching movies during downtime.

Smartphone Stand or Holder [ Link ]: For watching videos or FaceTiming friends and family more comfortably while using cell phones.

Portable Charger for Cell Phones [ Link to Today's best Price Options ]: To ensure their devices are always ready for selfies and social media updates.

Instant Camera or Disposable Camera: For capturing memories in a more tangible form than just digital photos.

Travel Journal or Sketchbook: A place to jot down thoughts, doodle, or document the adventure.

Healthy Snacks: Granola bars, trail mix, or other health-conscious but tasty snacks.

Personalized Stainless Steel Reusable Water Bottles: Eco-friendly and keeps beverages hot or cold for longer periods.

Reusable Travel Coffee Mug or Insulated Tumbler: For carrying their favorite hot or cold drinks.

Compact Board Games or Waterproof Deck of Cards: For entertainment that doesn't rely on a screen.

High-Quality Sunscreen: Protects against harmful UV rays during outdoor activities.

This basket aims to cater to the interests and needs of teens, offering both practical and fun items that make travel more enjoyable. Whether they're into music, photography, or simply staying connected, this gift basket has something for everyone.

Gift Basket for Women

This thoughtfully curated gift basket for women brings a touch of luxury to her cruise experience with a selection of pampering items:

Luxury Travel-Sized Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body lotion): High-quality products to elevate her self-care routine onboard.

A Spa Voucher for an onboard pampering session: Allows her to indulge in relaxation without worrying about the cost.

A Scented Travel Candle to create a soothing ambiance: Adds a cozy touch to her cabin, making it feel more like home.

A Silk Eye Mask for a better night's sleep: Promotes restful sleep by blocking out light.

A Reusable Water Bottle in a Stylish Design: Keeps her hydrated during excursions and onboard activities, with the added bonus of being fashionable.

A Mini Skincare Kit featuring facial mist, lip balm, and hand cream: Provides a quick and easy skincare routine to keep her feeling fresh.

A Book or Magazine targeted to her interests: Offers leisure reading that she'll genuinely enjoy.

Artisanal Chocolate or Gourmet Snacks: A delicious treat for indulgent moments, perfect for enjoying while lounging by the pool or watching the sunset.

A Piece of Jewelry: Adds a touch of elegance to her cruise wardrobe, ideal for formal nights or special family photos.

Swimsuit Cover : easy flowing fabric to enjoy time on the pool deck or beach.

This gift basket is designed to enhance relaxation and self-care, elevating her cruise experience with a touch of luxury and pampering.

Gift basket for men.

This gift basket for men includes essential items for a cruise:

High-Quality Razor with Toiletry Bag : For a clean shave and less irritation, especially useful for formal nights on the ship.

Flip Flops and Swim Trunks : Great gift for the pool deck and beach lover.

Leather Wallet: Stylish and functional, perfect for carrying essential card s and cash.

Travel-Size Shaving Cream: Compact and convenient for maintaining grooming habits on the go.

Pocket Multi-Tool (ensure it meets guidelines for air and ship travel): Versatile and useful for small fixes or tasks.

Portable Phone Charger: Keeps devices powered up during excursions or when outlets are scarce.

Craft Beer or Non-alcoholic Beverage Sampler (some cruises allow certain beverages on board in small amounts): Offers a taste of different brews, enhancing the cruise experience.

Beef Jerky or Gourmet Snacks: Satisfies hunger pangs dur ing the day or late-night cravings.

Travel Magazine or Guidebook: Provides ideas for excursions or simply offers leisure reading material.

These items combine practicality and enjoyment to enhance his cruise experience.

Gift Basket for Couples

This gift basket is designed to make the cruise experience for couples even more enjoyable:

His & Hers Personalized Beach Towels [ Link Here ]: Matching beach towels add a cute touch for a couple's trip.

Star Map of Cruise Dates [ Link Here ]: A beautiful keepsake, a star map of the sky on the dates of the cruise offers a lasting memory.

Romantic Flameless Candles [ Link Here ]: Set the mood with a selection of romantic candles to create a cozy ambiance in their cabin.

Travel-Size Board Games: Compact and easy to pack, these games provide entertainment for evenings on the ship.

Champagne or Sparkling Wine: Toast to their love with a bottle of champagne or sparkling wine. Many cruise lines allow some beverages to be brought on board in small quantities, or you can typically purchase champagne or wine from the cruise line to have in the couples' room upon arrival.

Dining Voucher for a Specialty Restaurant: Fine dining during the cruise is a treat. A dining voucher can make a meal a memorable part of their journey.

Mini Photo Album: Provide a mini photo album where they can store snapshots of their cruise memories.

This gift basket is all about enhancing their romantic cruise experience, from personalized towels to memorable activities and treats for two.

Holiday Decor for Interior of Cabin

Make the cruise cabin festive with compact, easily packed holiday decor.

Holiday Cabin Door Decor

Everyone passing by can enjoy the festive decorations on the door, as well as it can make the cabin easy to find.

Themed Cruise Wear

Add to the holiday spirit on board with themed cruise wear.

Specialty Dining Voucher for Holiday Feast

Enhance the holiday meal on the cruise with a specialty dining voucher.

Great Stocking Stuffers for the Cruise Traveler

Mini Hand Sanitizer

Passport Holder

Travel-Sized Sunscreen

Portable Phone Charger

Waterproof Phone Case

Travel Sewing Kit

Cruise-Themed Keychain

Mini First Aid Kit

Deck of Cards

Digital Luggage Scale

Clip-on Reading Light

Towel Clips or Towel Bands

Additional Cruise Resources

For more Travel articles, click on the articles below or go to GenXsolo.com/cruises ..

Christmas Cruise & Christmas Gift Ideas for Cruisers

Christmas Cruise Gift Ideas For Cruise Lovers

Christmas Cruise: The Ultimate Solo Cruising Adventure of 2023

Cruise Articles Series for GenX Women Cruising Solo:

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 1: Choosing a Cruise Line

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 2: How to Prepare For A Cruise

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 3: What To Expect On a Cruise Your First Day

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 4: Seas the Day - Things To Do on Cruise Sea Days

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 5: Exploring Cruise Port Days

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 6: Disembarkation Process on a Cruise Ship

Gen-X Women Cruising Solo - Part 7: Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Resources

Royal Caribbean and Coco Cay:

Royal Caribbean Corkage Fee Explained and How To Avoid It

Royal Caribbean Luggage Tags

Coco Cay Excursions and Comparison of Cabanas

Coco Cay Weather: What to Do Rain or Shine

Coco Cay What is Free at Coco Cay

Cruise Articles General Information:

How Long Does It Take To Disembark A Cruise Ship

Cruise Tips - Extra Tips for Gen-X Women Cruising Solo

Details for Tipping On a Cruise - Printable PDF - Who To Tip and Total Trip Tip Estimation

Cruise Quotes To Help You Lose Sight of Shore

Cruising Duck Tags

Cruise Door Decoration Ideas

Detailed Packing Lists with Downloadable, Printable Checklist PDF:

3-Day Caribbean Cruise Packing List

5-Day Caribbean Cruise Packing List

7-Day Caribbean Cruise Packing List

Cruise Critic : This is an invaluable online resource for cruise enthusiasts and first-timers alike. Cruise Critic offers detailed reviews of cruise lines, ships, and destinations, as well as forums where you can ask questions and share experiences.

Click the photo below to see what Cruise Critic has to offer:

Whether you're looking for the best excursions in a particular port or tips for cruising solo, Cruise Critic has you covered.

Related Posts

7-Day Caribbean Cruise Packing List - What To Pack for a 7 Day Cruise

Unwrapping the Joys of a Christmas Cruise: The Ultimate Solo Cruising Adventure of 2023

Tom Cruise has given Dakota Fanning a birthday gift every year since she was 11

Tom Cruise must really love giving gifts. The 61-year-old famously gives his friends a coconut cake every year on Christmas, but it turns out he’s sending gifts to people throughout the year too. Dakota Fanning, who he starred with in the 2005 film “War of the Worlds,” says she has received a gift from the actor since she was 11.

Fanning sat with Harper’s Bazaar for an interview where she revealed Cruise was the first person to give her a cell phone. “It was a Razr, Motorola Razr,” she confirmed. He gifted it to her when they were filming the science fiction action thriller. “Oh, my God, I was so excited,” she reminisced.

Although she “didn’t have anybody to call or text at that time,” since she was 11, it still made her feel very awesome. “But I loved having it. I loved it. I felt so cool,“ the Twilight star explained.

Suri Cruise enjoys her final days before becoming a legal adult

Tom cruise reportedly broke up with elsina khayrova because of her ex-husband, tom cruise still sends kristen dunst his famous christmas coconut cake.

But it wasn’t the only time Cruise, who r ecently broke up with Elsina Khayrova , made her feel special. She has received a gift from the Mission: Impossible star every year since then.

“Tom sends me a birthday gift every year, and has since that birthday,” the Twilight actress said. Fanning just turned 30 in February, and she confirmed, “30, I got a birthday gift.” “So thoughtful, yeah really really nice.”

Fanning played Tom’s character, Ray Ferrier’s daughter, Rachel Ferrier, in the film. His biological daughter, Suri Cruise , will also be celebrating a big milestone this month - her 18th birthday. Although it has been reported that Tom no longer has a relationship with her, so it’s unclear if he will be sending her a gift.