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7 Tips for Your Summer Cruise

By David Snyder

Cruises can be an amazing experience but sometimes not knowing the rules of cruise etiquette can make for an uncomfortable experience. For those of you who are experienced cruisers, or for those of you planning to cruise for the first time, there are certain guidelines that should be followed. These are a couple basic concepts you should follow when you're cruising.

7. Be Prepared
When you arrive at the port of call you will notice a huge line for passengers that are boarding the ship. The lines will move quickly if everyone is prepared. I can't tell how many times I have been stuck behind people who are not ready to present their passport, credit card, and cruise documents. Take out your need documents and keep them together in an easily accessible spot in your carry on.

6. Tipping the Staff
On most cruises the staff makes all of their money from gratuity left by passengers. Many cruises are "all-inclusive," meaning that you do not have to pay for food or activities. However, unless there are specific signs that ask you not to tip, you should leave at least 15%-20% for your waitress. If you do not tip, you are not only insulting the staff, but you will also make things awkward with your dinner company.

5. Always Expect the Unexpected
Remember most cruises are huge and cruisers will always outnumber the available staff. Things will not always go as plan and you should expect this. You're on vacation, so just relax and adapt to the problems. The staff will always try to cater your needs but remember there are bunch of other people they also must deal with it. So don't be rude if something doesn't go your way, calmly speak with staff if you have any problems. They will appreciate your patient and be more willing to cater to your needs.

4. You're Not the Only One on the Boat
Remember to be kind to your neighbors. A lot of cabins are very close together and slamming your door for example can be very annoying to everyone in your hall, especially at 2am. There are people on the boat that may have children that need to sleep. Depending on the size of the cruise, you will tend to see the same people around the cruise ship. Being rude and inconsiderate will lead to very uncomfortable cruise experience.

3. Keep Your Conversations Positive
It's natural to chat with those around you, especially if you are placed at a dinner table with others or at events. The one thing that everyone has in common is that you are all on the same cruise. It may be tempting share your stories, including the ups and down, but remember that is a vacation and everyone just wants to have fun. So don't be a "Debbie Downer" and enjoy your vacation.

2. Wear Proper Attire
Specific events on your cruise will require different attires. Dinner events are usually semi-formal and require you to dress appropriately. Remember to be respectful with your pool attire. You are not only the one on the boat and not everyone wants to see god's gifts to you. You will usually be alerted beforehand to the required attire for certain events and areas on the boat.

1. Moderation is Key
All inclusive cruises include unlimited food; but remember you are on cruise you don't want to overeat and get yourself sick. Depending on your cruise, alcohol will be readily available everywhere you go. Drink in moderation; no one likes a sloppy drunk ruining their cruise experience. It might make for humorous story later but remember you have to see most of these people throughout the entire cruise.

So remember, be considerate to your neighbors, expect the unexpected, tip your staff, and always drink and eat in moderation. These tips should make your future cruises very enjoyable.