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Tips for the First Time Cruiser - Part
2
You’ve made it to the ship, through the check in process, and are on board.
It’s somewhat like a hotel, but it moves. What can you expect in this new,
yet vaguely familiar, environment? What’s expected of you?
1. Lifeboat Drill (or muster) is a mandatory participation event. On
occasion I’ve seen nice couples looking over the rail at those of us
dutifully wrapped in our orange jackets. Chuckling to themselves, they’re
oblivious to the fact that they are breaking the strict policy of proper
adherence to the Mandatory Coast Guard Lifeboat Drill. Many lines actually
check cabins and most even check off names and cabin numbers at muster
stations during the drill. Absentees are eventually scooped up by
crewmembers who are roaming the ship in search of drill skippers. In the
meantime, everyone else stands patiently, waiting in discomfort for the
stragglers!
2. Tablemates can make or break a cruise for you. I happen to like
meeting new people and have been very fortunate to have some wonderful
tablemates through the years. But the worst can happen and you could be
paired up with some folks that just aren't going to make it for you. In such
a case there is salvation. If it’s really necessary, see the Maître'd and
quietly request a different table assignment.
3. In many ways, a cruise ship operates like a hotel and, therefore, has a
very distinct pecking order. Bars have a Bar Manager. Cabin services answer
to a Head Steward. Dining rooms have a headwaiter and Maître'd. Find these
people to correct a problem if you encounter one in their respective
domains. When all else fails, there is one officer who bears ultimate
responsibility and has the authority to insure passenger comfort and
happiness. Every ship has a Hotel Manager. His or her authority is almost
comparable to the Captain’s. When all else fails, seek the Hotel Manager for
satisfaction.
4. Like me, many people suffer seasickness easily if they don’t take
precautions. My personal remedy of preference is Bonine, an over the counter
Dramamine type drug. The point that I can’t stress strongly enough is that
it’s not what you use to counteract seasickness, but that it must be used
before you encounter symptoms. Bonine or an equivalent is also usually
available free of charge at the Pursers Desk or the ship’s Medical Center.
Ask your doctor prior to taking any medications.
5. It’s often wise to make up gratuity packets at home. Most cruise lines
suggest tipping guidelines in your documentation and getting it together at
home relieves you of the task on the last day of your cruise when everyone
else just thought of it. It also assures that you have tip money available
after a week in the Casino and souvenir shopping, etc. You can always add or
delete a few bucks if one or the other staff member has greatly pleased you
or ticked you off. Most cruise lines will now automatically charge your
shipboard account for tips, however you can add or subtract from that amount
as you wish.
Tips
for the First Time Cruiser Part 1
Cruise packing for the Caribbean
Packing for Alaska
For Those Traveling Abroad
Insurance
- Everyone needs insurance. Below are some reasons
why you may wish to purchase insurance.
Proof of citizenship is Required!
Airfare from the
cruise line
Frequently asked Questions
Getting Ready to Go -
Essential check list
Know before you go
- Helpful
tips on what to expect from your cruise vacation.
Packing Tips - designed for your 7 night cruise
Welcome Aboard Guide
- Information that will assist you
Internet Information and Soda
Cards aboard Holland America -
Details on using the ships internet. Prices are subject to change by the
cruise line at anytime.
News you can use - pro's and cons of
traveling with Cash, Traveler's Check's, Credit cards, ATM's.
Weather
Hotels in Ft. Lauderdale
Pregnancy - Due to limited
facilities on ships, guests must be under 24 weeks of pregnancy to attend
the cruise.
Website Links
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