Tips for First Time Cruisers - Your Guide to Smooth Sailing

If you’re planning your very first cruise, congratulations! You’re about to experience one of the most exciting and relaxing ways to travel. But between choosing the right cabin, packing smart, and understanding onboard life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Here at Nice Afts, we help first-time cruisers avoid rookie mistakes, get the best deals possible, and even save money on cruises even if they are already booked. Here are our top tips for a smooth and unforgettable first cruise.

1. Book Early for the Best Cabins, Prices, and Perks

Cruise ships have a wide variety of cabins, and the best ones go quickly. Booking early often means better selection, lower prices, and more perks.

Pro Tip: If the cruise fare drops after you’ve booked, we can help you price match and update your booking to the lower price. Contact Nice Afts to be automatically updated if your cruise price decreases — we watch the fares for you!

📩 Ready to get started? Email us at niceafts@gmail.com or call (407) 917-2387.

2. Choose the Right Cabin Location

Not all cabins are created equal. If you’re prone to seasickness, midship cabins on lower decks are more stable. If you want easy pool access, choose an upper deck near the action.

📩 Need help picking the perfect cabin? Reach out to niceafts@gmail.com.

3. Research Your Cruise Ship

Before you board, get familiar with your ship’s layout and amenities. Download the cruise line’s app to make reservations, check daily schedules, and avoid missing special activities.

4. Pack Smart — But Don’t Overpack

Cruise cabins are cozy, so bring versatile outfits you can mix and match. Don’t forget:

• Passport and travel documents

• Swimwear and cover-ups

• Formal night attire (if your cruise line has one)

• Comfortable walking shoes for excursions

5. Arrive the Day Before

If your cruise leaves from a different city, arrive at least one day early. Flight delays and unexpected travel hiccups happen — and cruise ships don’t wait!

6. Take Advantage of Onboard Credit

If you book through Nice Afts, we often secure free onboard credit for our clients. You can use this for specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, or even shopping.

📩 Ask us about getting onboard credit — email niceafts@gmail.com.

7. Try Something New Every Day

Cruise ships are packed with activities — from cooking classes to live shows to zip lines. Step out of your comfort zone and try at least one new thing each day.

8. Budget for Extras

While cruises are mostly all-inclusive, you’ll likely spend extra on things like specialty restaurants, drinks, excursions, and tips. Plan for these costs so you’re not surprised.

9. Explore Ports Like a Pro

Research your ports ahead of time so you know which excursions are worth it and which you can explore on your own. As your cruise travel agent, I can help you book the best experiences at the best price.

10. Stay Connected (If You Want To)

While cruise ship Wi-Fi can be expensive, most cruise lines now offer a variety of internet packages. The most cost-effective time to purchase is before you board, as prices often increase once you’re onboard. Decide ahead of time whether you’ll embrace being offline or choose a plan that keeps you connected during your voyage.

11. Work with a Cruise Travel Agent

Planning a cruise can be overwhelming — especially for first-timers. A professional cruise travel agent (like me!) can:

• Find the best deals and cabin locations

• Score you perks like free onboard credit

• Watch for price drops after you book

• Handle all the details so you can just show up and relax

• Move an existing booking to our agency, so you can potentially save money and get more perks on a cruise you’ve already booked

📩 Even if you’ve already booked, contact niceafts@gmail.com or call (407) 917-2387 to see if we can lower your price or add extra perks.

Your first cruise should be an adventure you’ll never forget — for all the right reasons. By following these tips (and working with Nice Afts), you’ll avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your time at sea.

📩 Let’s get your dream cruise booked today — email niceafts@gmail.com or call (407) 917-2387.