11 Mistakes You Should Never, Ever Make on a Cruise

A cruise promises relaxation and endless ocean views, but making the wrong moves can turn your vacation into a disaster. From expensive mistakes to safety hazards, some missteps can ruin your trip before you even set sail.

If you want to start traveling more without unnecessary stress, avoid these 11 cruise mistakes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage.

Running late for your cruise, or even just for port departures, can have serious consequences. Ships stick to strict schedules and won’t wait for late passengers unless they’re on an official cruise excursion.

If you miss the boat, you’ll be responsible for arranging (and paying for) transportation to the next port — even back home.

Elevators on cruise ships can be slow and overcrowded, especially during peak times. If you’re only going up or down a few decks, take the stairs instead. It’s often faster and leaves space for those who truly need the elevator.

Plus, walking is a great way to stay active and balance out those extra cruise buffet indulgences.

Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can lead to massive roaming charges, even if you think your data is off. If it turns out your data roaming is left on and your phone plan doesn’t cover the countries you are visiting, you can get hit with unexpected fees.

Instead, switch to airplane mode as soon as you board and use the ship’s WiFi if you have a plan. Don’t forget to check your Apple Watch, too.

Don’t miss out on exclusive onboard deals. Cruise lines often offer discounts, reduced deposits, and onboard credits if you book your next cruise while still on your trip.

These perks disappear once you leave the ship, so take advantage of the savings by reserving your next adventure before you disembark — you can always change the details later.

Sticking to just one restaurant on a cruise means missing out on incredible dining experiences. Ships offer a variety of complementary and specialty restaurants with diverse cuisines, and you might just discover a new favorite.

To make the most of your trip, try different venues and pre-book specialty dining before you board. Popular spots fill up fast, and you don’t want to miss out.

Packing the wrong outfits can leave you unprepared for both onboard events and shore excursions. While swimsuits are great for pool days, you’ll need proper attire for formal dinners, religious sites, and active excursions.

Bring sneakers for adventure tours, modest clothes for cultural visits, and dress-code-appropriate outfits for dining.

Forgetting to exchange your currency may leave you scrambling in port. Many smaller shops and local restaurants may not accept credit cards, especially in remote areas.

Research the currency of the countries you’ll visit and use an ATM at the port for a good exchange rate. Having local money on hand ensures smooth transactions and offers extra security in case of an emergency.

If you forget to add cruising to your travel insurance, you’ll leave yourself unprotected in case of unexpected issues like medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Standard travel insurance policies often don’t automatically cover cruise-specific risks, such as missed ports or medical care on the ship.

Always double-check your policy to ensure cruising is included, or consider purchasing additional coverage tailored to cruises.

Bringing a drone on a cruise ship can lead to serious problems, as cruise lines don’t allow flying drones from the ship due to safety concerns.

While some cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival may let you bring drones for use on shore, there are strict regulations and restrictions in place. It’s best to leave your drone at home to avoid potential issues and enjoy your trip without complications.

Power strips with surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships due to being fire hazards. The extra electrical load they create can be dangerous, especially in tight-packed cabins.

While you can bring a power strip, it must not have surge protection. So, make sure your power strip is simple and compliant with the cruise line’s guidelines to stay safe and avoid complications.

Cruise crew members work hard behind the scenes to ensure your vacation runs smoothly and exceeds expectations. Forgetting to show kindness or appreciation can make their already demanding job harder.

A simple smile and “hello” goes a long way in making them feel valued. If you want to go the extra mile, consider tipping crew members for their exceptional service.

A cruise offers incredible experiences, but avoiding common mistakes can make your trip even better. From booking dining reservations early to remembering to exchange currency, thoughtful planning can prevent stress and disappointment.

Did you know that many cruise lines also offer discounts or perks for guests who book through travel agents? Using the best travel credit cards can also help you earn rewards and save on onboard expenses.