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T&Dcruisers

By T&Dcruisers,
in First Time Cruisers

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johneeo

johneeo

Posted
Posted
Hi!

So if we order a drink on the cruise, we don't have to include a tip? It is already included when we get the slip to sign for? Ug...if this is the case I way over-tipped on my last cruise!

Also, is there a way to asign a different debit card to each person in a cabin? My kids each have their own bank accounts and they are staying in their own cabin. I know they will get a room key that will be their payment card for the cruise, but is there a way to use one bank account for one son and another bank account for the other son?

 

The tip is included on every drink. Just sign the slip.

 

You can set up an account for everyone. You can use a credit card or cash to do so.

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canadianlynxie

canadianlynxie

Posted
Posted

we just completed our 1st cruise (a 28-day trans pacific), and this board was super-helpful, but one thing was missed that we REALLY wish someone had mentioned:

 

TAKE AT LEAST 24 HOURS wORTH OF MEDICATION, AND EXTRA SPENDING MONEY (or credit card) OFF THE SHIP WITH YOU IN EACH PORT

 

 

we had a lovely trip but experienced some bad weather while on a port excursion. for the safety of all, they suspended tender service, and about 750 passengers and crew were "stuck" in port. the ship arranged for us all to have lodging overnight, and we got back on the ship the following afternoon. we had the cc/extra cash, so enjoyed our extra time in port by sightseeing, but many ppl did not have any money with them (or had spent it all on souvenirs) so they couldn't buy a toothbrush, extra snacks (the ship had us fed dinner then breakfast), admission to touristy-places.... and MANY ppl didn't have their medications with them (we didn't, but our meds aren't as urgent as things like insulin, heart medications etc). the ship arranged for a local doctor to obtain any life-sustaining medications (insulin, warfarin, heart meds etc) for those of us stranded, but it took a while to get them all in (and i think it was just luck that such a small port had enough of, and all the types of, medications that we needed)

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teecee46

teecee46

Posted
Posted

  • Bring plenty of Euro coins/dollars for tips. I feel quite strongly about “gratuities” which by definition are something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service. I therefore have a problem with paying gratuities up front to the cruise company and would much prefer to tip staff directly. Let’s be realistic here, the cruise company aren’t collecting these to make your cruise “easier” – they’re getting to decide how your money will be allocated and spent! The staff on our ship were much more interested in getting good ratings on the feedback forms!
  • Board the ship as soon as you are able on the first day. Arrive at the pier as soon as you can - usually 11:00 AM for a 5:00 PM sailing – you’ve paid for it so enjoy the first day!
  • Explore the ship as soon as you board – it’s a lot of fun! Dining rooms are on multiple levels so 1st stop, find your dining room and locate your table. Enjoy the food, and the room service – it’s all part of the experience.
  • You won't get checked-in until possibly after 3/4pm. Carry on a small bag with bathing suit, etc. if you want to hop in the pool after you grab lunch.
  • Take time to unpack and organize, you will appreciate it in the long run. There’s lots of suggestions on this forum for extra items to bring and I would say they are neither right nor wrong – everyone’s needs are different. We were glad that we brought the over the door organizer, the highlighter pen for marking the Cruise Compass and the little luggage scales which saved any red faces at the airport – any other suggestions we didn’t use and didn’t miss.
  • Suitcases fit under the bed. Check behind mirrors for extra storage areas.
  • Let the ship photographers take lots of pictures of you. It costs nothing, unless you buy.
  • If going to a show, arrive early. Even if you have reservations since they release those to walk-ups 15min prior. Know where the theatre is.
  • Don't pay for food, unless there's something really unique in the other restaurants that you want to try. You already paid for food in your ticket.
  • Read the daily paper to know what's going on board the ship the next day.
  • You don't HAVE to do something in each port. You can always enjoy the ship amenities without a crowd.
  • Read the board when leaving the ship that states when you need to be back on board the ship.
  • Confirm your watch is the same as the ships clock before getting off.
  • Order room service if going on an early shore excursion- this way you can continue getting ready while eating, sipping coffee, etc. It’s an excellent alarm clock (they always call before bringing it) and ensures a nice cup of coffee. We would always order a pitcher of water to fill out water bottles with also.
  • If you don't intend to use the expensive mini-bar items-or have small children that may get into them-ask the room steward to remove them to make room in fridge for your drinks you carried on.
  • Take 2 bathing suits (they don’t dry overnight!) Don't be self-conscious about your appearance in a bathing suit, shorts etc. There will be all body types aboard in all types of attire.
  • Be prepared to be treated like you're at a cattle call. But if you can ignore all that annoying stuff, you'll have a great time!
  • Check your bill on the interactive tv regularly to it over and make sure everything is in order. We have found mistakes. You can then correct them before the last day when the desk is very busy.
  • At around 10pm on the last night, your fairy tale holiday hits reality. You must pack up all your stuff and get your bags out into the corridor before you go to bed.
    You must also decide what to put in your daypack/carry on to get you through the entire journey home. It has to accommodate the nightwear you sleep in on the last night, and the toiletries and meds you need until you arrive home and if you're likely to fly home to ice and snow, you'd better give a thought before midnight on that last night about what you'll be wearing when you step off your plane!

During the day the ship’s dress code is entirely casual. You’ll need swimwear for the pool and sunbathing, plus a selection of t-shirts, shorts, trousers or jeans, casual skirts and blouses and sundresses for all other areas of the ship and for excursions. You’ll also need a selection of casual, smart casual and formal clothes for evening meals in the main dining room. Whether you choose to wear a tuxedo or ball gown, or opt for something less formal like smart trousers and a shirt for men and a dress for women, its all acceptable… after all its your holiday!

Don’t bring too many shoes - trainers, 1 or 2 day-time & formal is fine- wear your slacks or shorts or capris more than one day, and two bathing suits is plenty.

Finally...the best advice I have ever read here is:

Enjoy the romance...stars, moonbeams, sunrises and sunsets.

Every evening my hubby and I take a few minutes to walk on the deck and tell each other how happy we are to be there together! Years ago when we were first married and did not have 2 pennies to rub together little did we believe we would ever be on such a beautiful ship, in such a beautiful place, with nothing to do but stroll the deck and gaze at the stars.

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suzyed

suzyed

Posted
Posted
we just completed our 1st cruise (a 28-day trans pacific), and this board was super-helpful, but one thing was missed that we REALLY wish someone had mentioned:

 

TAKE AT LEAST 24 HOURS wORTH OF MEDICATION, AND EXTRA SPENDING MONEY (or credit card) OFF THE SHIP WITH YOU IN EACH PORT

 

 

we had a lovely trip but experienced some bad weather while on a port excursion. for the safety of all, they suspended tender service, and about 750 passengers and crew were "stuck" in port. the ship arranged for us all to have lodging overnight, and we got back on the ship the following afternoon. we had the cc/extra cash, so enjoyed our extra time in port by sightseeing, but many ppl did not have any money with them (or had spent it all on souvenirs) so they couldn't buy a toothbrush, extra snacks (the ship had us fed dinner then breakfast), admission to touristy-places.... and MANY ppl didn't have their medications with them (we didn't, but our meds aren't as urgent as things like insulin, heart medications etc). the ship arranged for a local doctor to obtain any life-sustaining medications (insulin, warfarin, heart meds etc) for those of us stranded, but it took a while to get them all in (and i think it was just luck that such a small port had enough of, and all the types of, medications that we needed)

 

Wow! Never heard of that happening! Thanks for sharing and Kudos to Celebrity for providing for you while you were stuck in port.

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canadianlynxie

canadianlynxie

Posted
Posted

that cruise was with princess - our celeb cruise is next month :)

 

Wow! Never heard of that happening! Thanks for sharing and Kudos to Celebrity for providing for you while you were stuck in port.

 

we just completed our 1st cruise (a 28-day trans pacific), and this board was super-helpful, but one thing was missed that we REALLY wish someone had mentioned:

 

TAKE AT LEAST 24 HOURS wORTH OF MEDICATION, AND EXTRA SPENDING MONEY (or credit card) OFF THE SHIP WITH YOU IN EACH PORT

 

 

we had a lovely trip but experienced some bad weather while on a port excursion. for the safety of all, they suspended tender service, and about 750 passengers and crew were "stuck" in port. the ship arranged for us all to have lodging overnight, and we got back on the ship the following afternoon. we had the cc/extra cash, so enjoyed our extra time in port by sightseeing, but many ppl did not have any money with them (or had spent it all on souvenirs) so they couldn't buy a toothbrush, extra snacks (the ship had us fed dinner then breakfast), admission to touristy-places.... and MANY ppl didn't have their medications with them (we didn't, but our meds aren't as urgent as things like insulin, heart medications etc). the ship arranged for a local doctor to obtain any life-sustaining medications (insulin, warfarin, heart meds etc) for those of us stranded, but it took a while to get them all in (and i think it was just luck that such a small port had enough of, and all the types of, medications that we needed)

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sydneyrain3333

sydneyrain3333

Posted
Posted

So I just got done reading this whole thread!!!:D Great advice! This will be my 2nd cruise and i still love to hear from the pros! The only thing i can say is that if u relax and let the fun come to u on your cruise you will have a blast! i can't remember anything bad about my first cruise! One of the best nights, we were heading to bed and happen to stumble into a room where they were learning the thriller dance!! (bunch of drunks at 2 am):eek: dont ask me how to do it now but it was a totally unplanned blast!;)

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gr8times4us

gr8times4us

Posted
Posted
enjoy the romance...stars, moonbeams, sunrises and sunsets.

every evening my hubby and i take a few minutes to walk on the deck and tell each other how happy we are to be there together! Years ago when we were first married and did not have 2 pennies to rub together little did we believe we would ever be on such a beautiful ship, in such a beautiful place, with nothing to do but stroll the deck and gaze at the stars.

 

 

well said!

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Steviewonder1

Steviewonder1

Posted
Posted

A couple of things here. We are over Formal Night. I have many pictures of me pouring Champaign on the glass tower in the Main Atrium. It takes another medium sized suitcase for a formal dress, Tux and the accessories. That is one less thing to hoss off the ship and around the port to the Limo. I do have a large sized Key Fob with 2 sets of my meds in them just in case we get stranded somewhere off the ship. We only do excursions via the ship so they are responsible to get us back on or hold the ship. Last we always take travel and medical insurance. You cannot imagine what it cost to medivac my wife off one of our Alaskan Cruises with a gall bladder issue. It paid all the costs and for half the cruise and our First Class air fare from Alaska back to Seattle to catch our original flight back home. You just never know what will go on in a cruise anywhere, including us going thru the tail of a Hurricane in the NE 4 years ago with 8-14 foot seas all night.

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g0ingn0w

g0ingn0w

Posted
Posted
If you had to list your top 5 points/tips that you wish you had known before you went on your first cruise what would they be? Examples, like binder clip for the shower curtain or that the first drink is NOT free, etc.

 

My friend is going on a cruise for her honeymoon and neither have been on one before and she just doens't have time to read these boards, wedding planning and all, so I thought I might compile a list for her. I tried composing one myself but found that I just kept forgetting things. Thanks for everyone's help!

 

Just returned from our Venice to Rome cruise on Regent Seven Seas Voyager 10/17 - 24 plus another week in Germany. Hope I don't sound preachy or judgmental. Here are my top 5:

 

1) Read something about your ports of call. It will make it more interesting.

2) Seriously consider the travel insurance. We had it and didn't need it but the peace of mind was priceless.

3) Dine with other passengers when you have the opportunity. People are so friggin' nice and most are interesting enough to get through a meal.

4) Dress nice (that doesn't mean up) when you travel. I know it's your vacation but you can look nice and be comfortable.

5) Recognize good service by completing the survey at the end, tip when it's appropriate and be generous. That means you need to have some cash with you so you're prepared. Even on those all included cruises, there is usually an opportunity to recognize and thank someone that provided special service.

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Whimzy!

Whimzy!

Posted
Posted
We didn't have problems on Allure, similar bed setup. There is, unfortunately, a noticeable "dip" in the bed in the area where they join. We laughingly referred to it as the "crevasse" all week long.

 

As for shoes in the MDR, I thought it was "no open toes"? We listened to one couple in one of the solarium hot tubs complain to no end one evening because (god forbid!) they couldn't go to the main dining room in their tank tops and shorts. Sheesh, if you can't be bothered to put on proper attire there are PLENTY of other dining options aboard the ship where you can go in a banana hammock and little else if that's what you desire.

 

HAHAHA.. Banana Hammock!!

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cmd121587

cmd121587

Posted
Posted

Hello!

I leave for my 1st cruise with my BF on the 15th of this month. I am going on a 4 day Carnival cruise that goes to Cozumel. I am still unsure about how much cash I should bring. I know we need cash for tipping, the casino, and for shopping, etc on the port, but I am totally lost as far as how much I should even be looking at bringing. Can anyone share a ballpark estimate?!

Thanks!;)

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2bthereagain

2bthereagain

Posted
Posted

  • Bring plenty of Euro coins/dollars for tips. I feel quite strongly about “gratuities” which by definition are something given voluntarily or beyond obligation usually for some service. I therefore have a problem with paying gratuities up front to the cruise company and would much prefer to tip staff directly. Let’s be realistic here, the cruise company aren’t collecting these to make your cruise “easier” – they’re getting to decide how your money will be allocated and spent! The staff on our ship were much more interested in getting good ratings on the feedback forms!
  • Board the ship as soon as you are able on the first day. Arrive at the pier as soon as you can - usually 11:00 AM for a 5:00 PM sailing – you’ve paid for it so enjoy the first day!
  • Explore the ship as soon as you board – it’s a lot of fun! Dining rooms are on multiple levels so 1st stop, find your dining room and locate your table. Enjoy the food, and the room service – it’s all part of the experience.
  • You won't get checked-in until possibly after 3/4pm. Carry on a small bag with bathing suit, etc. if you want to hop in the pool after you grab lunch.
  • Take time to unpack and organize, you will appreciate it in the long run. There’s lots of suggestions on this forum for extra items to bring and I would say they are neither right nor wrong – everyone’s needs are different. We were glad that we brought the over the door organizer, the highlighter pen for marking the Cruise Compass and the little luggage scales which saved any red faces at the airport – any other suggestions we didn’t use and didn’t miss.
  • Suitcases fit under the bed. Check behind mirrors for extra storage areas.
  • Let the ship photographers take lots of pictures of you. It costs nothing, unless you buy.
  • If going to a show, arrive early. Even if you have reservations since they release those to walk-ups 15min prior. Know where the theatre is.
  • Don't pay for food, unless there's something really unique in the other restaurants that you want to try. You already paid for food in your ticket.
  • Read the daily paper to know what's going on board the ship the next day.
  • You don't HAVE to do something in each port. You can always enjoy the ship amenities without a crowd.
  • Read the board when leaving the ship that states when you need to be back on board the ship.
  • Confirm your watch is the same as the ships clock before getting off.
  • Order room service if going on an early shore excursion- this way you can continue getting ready while eating, sipping coffee, etc. It’s an excellent alarm clock (they always call before bringing it) and ensures a nice cup of coffee. We would always order a pitcher of water to fill out water bottles with also.
  • If you don't intend to use the expensive mini-bar items-or have small children that may get into them-ask the room steward to remove them to make room in fridge for your drinks you carried on.
  • Take 2 bathing suits (they don’t dry overnight!) Don't be self-conscious about your appearance in a bathing suit, shorts etc. There will be all body types aboard in all types of attire.
  • Be prepared to be treated like you're at a cattle call. But if you can ignore all that annoying stuff, you'll have a great time!
  • Check your bill on the interactive tv regularly to it over and make sure everything is in order. We have found mistakes. You can then correct them before the last day when the desk is very busy.
  • At around 10pm on the last night, your fairy tale holiday hits reality. You must pack up all your stuff and get your bags out into the corridor before you go to bed.
    You must also decide what to put in your daypack/carry on to get you through the entire journey home. It has to accommodate the nightwear you sleep in on the last night, and the toiletries and meds you need until you arrive home and if you're likely to fly home to ice and snow, you'd better give a thought before midnight on that last night about what you'll be wearing when you step off your plane!

During the day the ship’s dress code is entirely casual. You’ll need swimwear for the pool and sunbathing, plus a selection of t-shirts, shorts, trousers or jeans, casual skirts and blouses and sundresses for all other areas of the ship and for excursions. You’ll also need a selection of casual, smart casual and formal clothes for evening meals in the main dining room. Whether you choose to wear a tuxedo or ball gown, or opt for something less formal like smart trousers and a shirt for men and a dress for women, its all acceptable… after all its your holiday!

Don’t bring too many shoes - trainers, 1 or 2 day-time & formal is fine- wear your slacks or shorts or capris more than one day, and two bathing suits is plenty.

 

Finally...the best advice I have ever read here is:

Enjoy the romance...stars, moonbeams, sunrises and sunsets.

Every evening my hubby and I take a few minutes to walk on the deck and tell each other how happy we are to be there together! Years ago when we were first married and did not have 2 pennies to rub together little did we believe we would ever be on such a beautiful ship, in such a beautiful place, with nothing to do but stroll the deck and gaze at the stars.

 

 

Loved this post! Especially this,

 

Don't be self-conscious about your appearance in a bathing suit, shorts etc. There will be all body types aboard in all types of attire.

 

and this,

 

Finally...the best advice I have ever read here is:

Enjoy the romance...stars, moonbeams, sunrises and sunsets.

 

Theses are the key to having the cruise of a lifetime, everytime!

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CarnivalGirl3

CarnivalGirl3

Posted
Posted
Hello!

I leave for my 1st cruise with my BF on the 15th of this month. I am going on a 4 day Carnival cruise that goes to Cozumel. I am still unsure about how much cash I should bring. I know we need cash for tipping, the casino, and for shopping, etc on the port, but I am totally lost as far as how much I should even be looking at bringing. Can anyone share a ballpark estimate?!

Thanks!;)

 

It really depends! Basically, set a daily/overall budget that you can afford. We use cash and envelops to keep up with our budget.

 

Tips are $10 per person, per day. We pay with our bank card, not cash.

Typically you tip the bag porter a buck per bag (cash)

tip room service a buck each time (cash)

 

Set a budget for casino. How much are you willing to lose? We don't go. lol.

 

Set a budget for shopping. How much do you want to spend? Are there any big items you want? (example, I bought a camera lens in St. Thomas, that I put on my bank card. I also bought a pair of ear rings somewhere. And I'm a sucker for the gift shop sales....). The lens was preplanned, as was the jewelry. I didn't have a budget, per say, but knew I had x amount in my account to spend.

 

Pictures are $20 each, how many do you want?

 

I take 20 ones. I can always get more at front desk. But small bills are best to spend in port.

 

do you drink? We get 1-2 dod's.

do you want a soda card?

 

We have a $100 obc for our next cruise. I will get the photo taken when we board the ship, and a $15 day pass to rainforest. Then we each have $50 to spend on whatever else.

 

Most places take bank/credit cards if you're looking for bigger buys (like jewelry/lens/whatever).

 

We budget $20 pp as blow money for each port (that's for tee's, post cards, a wooden box, blanket, whatever). that doesn't include excursions.

 

Next cruise, we've already been to those ports, so I'm not really expecting to spend money.

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kba1988

kba1988

Posted
Posted (edited)
It really depends! Basically, set a daily/overall budget that you can afford. We use cash and envelops to keep up with our budget.

 

Tips are $10 per person, per day. We pay with our bank card, not cash.

Typically you tip the bag porter a buck per bag (cash)

tip room service a buck each time (cash)

 

Set a budget for casino. How much are you willing to lose? We don't go. lol.

 

Set a budget for shopping. How much do you want to spend? Are there any big items you want? (example, I bought a camera lens in St. Thomas, that I put on my bank card. I also bought a pair of ear rings somewhere. And I'm a sucker for the gift shop sales....). The lens was preplanned, as was the jewelry. I didn't have a budget, per say, but knew I had x amount in my account to spend.

 

Pictures are $20 each, how many do you want?

 

I take 20 ones. I can always get more at front desk. But small bills are best to spend in port.

 

do you drink? We get 1-2 dod's.

do you want a soda card?

 

We have a $100 obc for our next cruise. I will get the photo taken when we board the ship, and a $15 day pass to rainforest. Then we each have $50 to spend on whatever else.

 

Most places take bank/credit cards if you're looking for bigger buys (like jewelry/lens/whatever).

 

We budget $20 pp as blow money for each port (that's for tee's, post cards, a wooden box, blanket, whatever). that doesn't include excursions.

 

Next cruise, we've already been to those ports, so I'm not really expecting to spend money.

 

THis is excellent advice. You sound like a Dave Ramsey "Financial Peace University" graduate....LOL! :p We use the envelope system too. I didn't know others spoke about "blow money" the way Dave does.

 

Again - great advice given here.:)

Edited by kba1988
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cruisingjunkie

cruisingjunkie

Posted
Posted

Hope you enjoy your first cruise! I have taken as little as $200 and as much as $800 for a cruise... I love slots so they usually get most of it. Instead of a soda card, take your own sodas. If you like certain drinks (bourbon and coke, vodka/cranberry) you can have a bottle of booze waiting in your room when your board and then save a bundle by fixing your own drinks. I almost always get a couple of the souvenir drinks, which are a huge ripoff but I love them.

 

We tip the guys on the lido deck $1 every other visit. There is a built in gratuity on each alcoholic drink but these guys can be your best friend. Be sure to check your "tear away schedule" every day that is left in your room. You can find fun (free) things to do and win your own souviner.

 

Have a blast!!!:)

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Erica&David

Erica&David

Posted
Posted

My husband and I are going on our honeymoon and first cruise just after Thanksgiving. Any last minute packing tips/recs for things to do on board/any thing else before we leave or to enjoy while on board?

 

Any advice and ideas are welcome and appreciated! Getting so excited!!

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