"I wish I knew before..."

[RBCL]

1. Bring a good camera for the memories

2. Do not over pack, it crowds your room

3. Bring sunscreen, the Caribbean is hotter than you think

4. Bring more money than you originally planned on...you burn cash quick.

[Underwatr]

I keep seeing people saying to bring duct tape....can I ask what I may need that for? Sorry if someone mentioned it before..I only got to read about 10 pages and had to stop :)

It's good for repairing anything that may need a strong temporary repair - luggage, etc. On our first cruise we used it to strengthen a manila folder for DW's painting class.

[Marian Paroo]

It's good for repairing anything that may need a strong temporary repair - luggage, etc. On our first cruise we used it to strengthen a manila folder for DW's painting class.

 

I didn't use the roll I bought, but I would defintely bring it again -- it is the world's best Just In Case tool.

[kruzkween]

Duct tape is one of those things you take with you just like cold medicine, band-aids, diarrhea medicine, ect. that you might not need, hope you don't need, but boy if you do you better have it! I'd rather be safe than sorry when it comes to needing something desperately and not having it while away from home.

 

Someone mentioned taking you own wine. Depends on which cruise line you're sailing, but some don't allow you to do that at all. If you even try, they will confiscate it and you may never see it again. BE SURE to check and make sure your cruise line allows this before you go to the trouble & expense.

 

kruzkween

[andy11]

I go to the Purser's Desk when I get onboard and prepay my tips in cash and usually put 500-700 on our account even though we don't use it all. But I've discovered on my few cruises that we are sooo laid back we don't use the dining room, we just become free spirits and eat whatever, wherever. Do I have to TIP the maitre' d and waitstaff when we don't grace the dining room?

We did the same, so we put our tips in the box for the buffet staff

[SilverGS]

I go to the Purser's Desk when I get onboard and prepay my tips in cash and usually put 500-700 on our account even though we don't use it all. But I've discovered on my few cruises that we are sooo laid back we don't use the dining room, we just become free spirits and eat whatever, wherever. Do I have to TIP the maitre' d and waitstaff when we don't grace the dining room?

Hi elainmir, just to confirm you prepaid your tips in cash and then kept 500-700 (in cash?) on your ship account and you ended up not using it?

 

Did you do that so that you didn't have to give them a credit card number for your trip or was it because of some other reason?

[johneeo]

I go to the Purser's Desk when I get onboard and prepay my tips in cash and usually put 500-700 on our account even though we don't use it all. But I've discovered on my few cruises that we are sooo laid back we don't use the dining room, we just become free spirits and eat whatever, wherever. Do I have to TIP the maitre' d and waitstaff when we don't grace the dining room?

 

The tips go to the MDR staff (some of which work the WJ also) the WJ staff, and other dining venues throughout the ship.

 

Even if you are not using the MDR, you are using other facilities that those tips go to, so, yes, you should tip what is recommended.

[jaycat]

Pack as much or as little as you like.

 

I, thankful, packed two dressy shoes. One broke so I'm glad I had a second pair. I had to find some tape to temp fix the shoe. Wished I had duct tape....

 

Board looking picture ready because you will want that first picture.

 

Small pair of scissors was helpful

[cruiser1time]

Seriously, best thread ever! I have over 100 days left before my first cruise, but happy to be making a packing list.... this thread helped a lot!!!

[mommyto3girls:)]

You can bring soda on some cruise lines, but if you are flying this may cost more for the extra bag than just buying a soda card. Lemonade, tea, water, juice and milk(at breakfast) is free.

[Scecy]

Question to those who suggest wiping everything down in the cabin with Lysol-- do you normally do this also when you go to a hotel, or are the cabins on a cruise ship dirtier than what you would expect in a hotel? Also, do they get cleaned during the week (like a hotel) or is the room left alone? Thanks!

[NHsnowpup]

I figured these out ahead of time because we don't check bags when flying TO our destinations. When packing, limit the things that you will only use once, for only one reason, and or never again after you are off the ship--

 

1.) Shoes--I found cute and very comfortable thong sandals that I used for formal nights and for walking around the ship, to and from laundry, by the pool, etc. and Water/hiking sneakers that flatten out to pack in the suitcase as my back-ups and for water days. Wore the waterproof low hikers on the plane and every day cause they take up half my bag, but save my back and feet.

2.) I bought a good-sized can of nuts at our first stop of a 16 day Alaska land/cruise for room snacks and then used the empty can to pack those small trinkets that get lost in drawers and pockets or left behind when re-packing or lost/broken in your suitcase.

3.) Tiny battery votive added a warm glow to the bathroom.

4.) Charging--Small outlet expander on a swivel with three spots did the trick rather than a large power strip. Rotate the days you charge things. Nothing dies all at once. Also many things can be charged using the usb ports on your netbook/laptop. Invest in extra batteries and travel sized chargers or usb cord and plug to wall with usb port opening combinations. We have one for the outlet in the car, too. All cords pack into a small zipped pouch, so nothing gets left behind and you don't need to dig to find it.

5.)Luggage--A lot of carry-on rolly bags have an expandable option, which comes in handy when returning home with more than you left with. (We mailed our formal wear and second half of the trip's toiletries to the last hotel before the ship) Then we MIGHT check a bag heading home. A daypack is useful on port days; carries the netbook, all camera equip., and documentation when flying; and is a great second carry-on allowable item.

 

As long as you have your documents, ID, money source, and chosen traveling companion (optional, I know) you should have a WONDERFUL time.

Edited October 20, 2011 by NHsnowpup

[Anne50]

Boyfriend and I are going on our first cruise (Carnival) next month, very excited! This thread has been pretty helpful (never would have thought to bring a power strip!), although we're going to go against some of the advice here. :)

 

Anyway, a couple of questions:

What's the dress code for the "formal" night? I keep reading conflicting advice, and boyfriend does not currently own a suit/tux (or a jacket, I don't think)--would a shirt and tie be ok if we decide to do the formal thing?

 

This is a dumb question, especially from someone who has traveled internationally, but what currencies to Caribbean ports accept (Nassau, Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk)?

 

I haven't went yet, but from reading the FAQs at the Carnival site and the message boards there, Carnival does not have a "formal" night, they have what they call an "elegant" nite. According to the dress code posted at Carnival a jacket or tie is not required for a man. A nice dress shirt or polo shirt or any nice shirt with a collar is acceptable with a pair of dressyer pants. For a woman a dressy sun dress or dressy skirt and blouse or dressy pants and blouse is acceptable. They suggest a light sweater or shrug or shawl for chilliness.

 

As someone said on here somewhere: check the site for the specific cruise line that you are using.

[suzyed]

I figured these out ahead of time because we don't check bags when flying TO our destinations. When packing, limit the things that you will only use once, for only one reason, and or never again after you are off the ship--

 

1.) Shoes--I found cute and very comfortable thong sandals that I used for formal nights and for walking around the ship, to and from laundry, by the pool, etc. and Water/hiking sneakers that flatten out to pack in the suitcase as my back-ups and for water days. Wore the waterproof low hikers on the plane and every day cause they take up half my bag, but save my back and feet.

2.) I bought a good-sized can of nuts at our first stop of a 16 day Alaska land/cruise for room snacks and then used the empty can to pack those small trinkets that get lost in drawers and pockets or left behind when re-packing or lost/broken in your suitcase.

3.) Tiny battery votive added a warm glow to the bathroom.

4.) Charging--Small outlet expander on a swivel with three spots did the trick rather than a large power strip. Rotate the days you charge things. Nothing dies all at once. Also many things can be charged using the usb ports on your netbook/laptop. Invest in extra batteries and travel sized chargers or usb cord and plug to wall with usb port opening combinations. We have one for the outlet in the car, too. All cords pack into a small zipped pouch, so nothing gets left behind and you don't need to dig to find it.

5.)Luggage--A lot of carry-on rolly bags have an expandable option, which comes in handy when returning home with more than you left with. (We mailed our formal wear and second half of the trip's toiletries to the last hotel before the ship) Then we MIGHT check a bag heading home. A daypack is useful on port days; carries the netbook, all camera equip., and documentation when flying; and is a great second carry-on allowable item.

 

As long as you have your documents, ID, money source, and chosen traveling companion (optional, I know) you should have a WONDERFUL time.

Do you have any photos of the shoes you brought with you?

[NHsnowpup]

Do you have any photos of the shoes you brought with you?

 

My hikers were from Sports Authority. Mens 10, cause I have big feet. This is a picture of a different year's model. Mine were dark brown and green. Didn't see them there last time I was shopping. http://compare.ebay.com/like/230679839153?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar&_lwgsi=y

http://www.sportsauthority.com/product/index.jsp?

 

Similar one is the one made by Hi-Tec, both were regularly on sale for $40. http://www.sportsauthority.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3539220&cp=3077570.3079720.766059.1335214.766063&pg=6&parentPage=family

 

My watershoes/hiking sneakers were made by Salomon. Tech Amphibian 2, got on super low sale. Mine were actually ladies and light blue http://www.backcountry.com/store/review/200002518/Hiking-Shoes-meet-Water-Shoes.html

 

My cute sandals were closeouts at Wal-mart. Light blue leather/suede with silver accents on the straps and a thick cushy bottom/sole, not totally flat. Sorry no pics of that one. I still wear all three regularly

Edited October 20, 2011 by NHsnowpup
link didn't link

[qbanrican84]

What a GREAT thread! I've been on a few cruises but I still could use some of these tips that I never even thought about! ...

[suzyed]

My hikers were from Sports Authority. Mens 10, cause I have big feet. This is a picture of a different year's model. Mine were dark brown and green. Didn't see them there last time I was shopping. http://compare.ebay.com/like/230679839153?var=lv&ltyp=AllFixedPriceItemTypes&var=sbar&_lwgsi=y

http://www.sportsauthority.com/product/index.jsp?

 

Similar one is the one made by Hi-Tec, both were regularly on sale for $40. http://www.sportsauthority.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3539220&cp=3077570.3079720.766059.1335214.766063&pg=6&parentPage=family

 

My watershoes/hiking sneakers were made by Salomon. Tech Amphibian 2, got on super low sale. Mine were actually ladies and light blue http://www.backcountry.com/store/review/200002518/Hiking-Shoes-meet-Water-Shoes.html

 

My cute sandals were closeouts at Wal-mart. Light blue leather/suede with silver accents on the straps and a thick cushy bottom/sole, not totally flat. Sorry no pics of that one. I still wear all three regularly

Thanks!!

I have a whole "shoe issue", especially with dressy shoes....I had surgery on my achilles tendon and it prevents me from wearing most kinds of heels. I'm short (5'1"), so I look like I'm standing in a hole anyway in a long dress..LOL....so I wish I could find something with a lower heel, but dressy looking....GRRRR!

[Scecy]

Thanks!!

I have a whole "shoe issue", especially with dressy shoes....I had surgery on my achilles tendon and it prevents me from wearing most kinds of heels. I'm short (5'1"), so I look like I'm standing in a hole anyway in a long dress..LOL....so I wish I could find something with a lower heel, but dressy looking....GRRRR!

 

I totally sympathize! I have just spent three days running around to every shoe store I could find looking for glitzy, snazzy or sparkly evening shoes with little to no heel. Instead I find that 5 inch heels are "in" right now so every time my eyes went "ah! That's pretty" I then got frustrated because they just don't make versions of those shoes in low heel. My shoe size (9) also presents a problem. Ah well, people don't really look at your feet, right? :D

[juju2454]

I totally sympathize! I have just spent three days running around to every shoe store I could find looking for glitzy, snazzy or sparkly evening shoes with little to no heel. Instead I find that 5 inch heels are "in" right now so every time my eyes went "ah! That's pretty" I then got frustrated because they just don't make versions of those shoes in low heel. My shoe size (9) also presents a problem. Ah well, people don't really look at your feet, right? :D

 

I broke both ankles at one point or another so wearing high heels is out completely, try Zappos on line, or Kohl's or even Target.... ;)

I am a size 9&1/2 and have good luck with these places... JC Penny's too

[pinkpumpkin]

I have a few questions…. As far as heals goes should I trade them in for flip flops? I was thinking I might wear then at the casino or if we go dancing on the ship or to formal night… or is the even too much? Also how “formal” is formal night for women, would I look silly in a cocktail/ short prom looking dress? And do people get “dressed up” to go the bar/clubs on the ship? Also we are sailing on Carnival and they said gratuity is included 10 buck a day per guest.. Should I still tip on top of that? Do they check your bags for wine? We are not flying so i am going to bring some. I know its ok but just wondering,:) Last one … so we are sailing with 2 other couples and booking separately will we be able to eat together , can we be seated together or do we have to make plans in advance or can we changes it up every night? LoL that’s all for now and thanks to every one for all ur helpful tips!!

[rmurray847]

Very nice post, Vickster. Don't worry about the length. When there is quality content, the more the merrier!

[suzyed]

I broke both ankles at one point or another so wearing high heels is out completely, try Zappos on line, or Kohl's or even Target.... ;)

I am a size 9&1/2 and have good luck with these places... JC Penny's too

My bum left ankle started with a fracture, and then two arthroscopies and then the tendon surgery!

Last year on the Ruby, I still had my big black boot/cast on my leg and a pretty little sandal on the other foot....very stylish! NOT!!

 

I traipsed through Pompeii, and Capri and Barcelona and Venice and Monaco and the Azores all in the boot....very interesting!! LOL :eek::p:rolleyes:;)

[suzyed]

I have a few questions…. As far as heals goes should I trade them in for flip flops? I was thinking I might wear then at the casino or if we go dancing on the ship or to formal night… or is the even too much? Also how “formal” is formal night for women, would I look silly in a cocktail/ short prom looking dress? And do people get “dressed up” to go the bar/clubs on the ship? Also we are sailing on Carnival and they said gratuity is included 10 buck a day per guest.. Should I still tip on top of that? Do they check your bags for wine? We are not flying so i am going to bring some. I know its ok but just wondering,:) Last one … so we are sailing with 2 other couples and booking separately will we be able to eat together , can we be seated together or do we have to make plans in advance or can we changes it up every night? LoL that’s all for now and thanks to every one for all ur helpful tips!!

Call your travel agent!!!!

Just kidding...that seems to be the answer I always get!! LOL

"How formal" depends on which cruiseline/ship you are sailing on. Seems to me that a short cocktail dress would be fine. I think if you are dressed up for formal night and then want to go dancing, you could change into something more comfortable. Many people change after dinner...some stay dressed...again it depends on which cruiseline.

As far as dinner with your friends...that should definately be arranged ahead of time if you all want to be seated together....and this is a case where you really should call your travel agent so that can connect your reservations. You will need the confirmation numbers of each of the parties in order to do this.

No need to tip above the regular daily charge unless you want to and someone has gone above and beyond. If you buy drinks, a gratuity of 15% will be included.

Each line has a different policy as far as bringing wine onboard...I believe Carnival says "none", but check the web site for their policy.

[CinWay]

Suzyed and Scecy - check out amazon.com - I have a difficult to find size as well and have ordered from them and they are great. I had a look and if you go under shoes, womens, sandals and then dressy there are all kinds of dressy flats and low heels in many sizes including size 9. I take a size 4 in women's. They will also have great deals on here - The last low heeled dress sandal I bought on there was originally $250 and I got them for $40. I love them! Also, many of the shoes will have reviews so if you have something to watch out for (I have a high instep) you can usually see if the shoes are right for you.

Edited October 22, 2011 by CinWay

[suzyed]

Suzyed and Scecy - check out amazon.com - I have a difficult to find size as well and have ordered from them and they are great. I had a look and if you go under shoes, womens, sandals and then dressy there are all kinds of dressy flats and low heels in many sizes including size 9. I take a size 4 in women's. They will also have great deals on here - The last low heeled dress sandal I bought on there was originally $250 and I got them for $40. I love them! Also, many of the shoes will have reviews so if you have something to watch out for (I have a high instep) you can usually see if the shoes are right for you.

I shop on Amazon all the time, usually for books and stuff...maybe I will check out the shoes there!! I wear a 71/2 which is usually pretty easy to find....thanks for your imput! :D