I Know Cruises Inside Out — These Are the 8 Things I Always Do As A Passenger

After sailing on over 25 cruise ships across six continents, I’ve learned what makes a voyage truly unforgettable. Cruise vacations offer incredible value, but knowing a few insider tricks can transform your experience from good to extraordinary.

Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned sailor, these are my non-negotiable cruise habits that maximize both fun and value every time I set sail.

1. Book My Own Shore Excursions

The ship’s excursions often cost double what you’d pay booking directly with local tour operators. I research each port months ahead using TripAdvisor and Viator to find highly-rated local guides. This strategy has saved me thousands while delivering more authentic experiences with smaller groups.

Last year in Cozumel, while ship passengers paid $129 for a crowded beach trip, I enjoyed a private cenote tour for just $65. My guide even took us to his mom’s restaurant for the best homemade tamales! Just ensure you’re back before the ship departs – cruise lines won’t wait for independently booked tours.

2. Arrive at Port a Day Early

Flying in the same day as departure is gambling with your vacation. Weather delays, canceled flights, or traffic jams can leave you watching your ship sail away without you. I always book a hotel near the port for the night before.

This buffer day isn’t just insurance – it’s bonus vacation time! I explore the departure city, adjust to any time changes, and start my cruise refreshed instead of stressed. Many hotels offer cruise packages with free breakfast and port shuttles, making the extra night both practical and enjoyable.

3. Pack a Magnetic Dry-Erase Board

Cruise ship walls are metal, making this $5 item my secret communication weapon. I stick it outside my cabin door for leaving notes for my travel companions or room steward. When traveling with family, we avoid constant phone calls trying to locate each other.

“Meeting at pool deck at 2pm” or “Gone to trivia, back at 4” keeps everyone informed without hunting each other down across 15 decks. If you’re worried about theft, magnetic hooks work too – I hang a small whiteboard inside the cabin for daily reminders about dinner reservations or show times.

4. Bring a Power Strip and Nightlight

Most cruise cabins have exactly one accessible outlet – woefully inadequate for today’s device-heavy travelers. My flat cruise-approved power strip (without surge protection, which isn’t allowed) turns one outlet into five, solving family charging battles instantly.

The nightlight prevents stubbed toes and waking companions during midnight bathroom trips. Cruise cabins become pitch black at night, and unfamiliar layouts become obstacle courses.

Look for power strips specifically marketed as cruise-approved – regular ones may be confiscated during security checks since surge protectors are considered fire hazards on ships.

5. Skip the Main Dining Room on First Night

While other passengers wait in long lines for first-night seating assignments, I’m enjoying a peaceful meal at one of the specialty restaurants. First-night specialty dining typically offers substantial discounts (sometimes 50% off) because most cruisers default to the main dining room.

You’ll experience better service with half-empty restaurants and often score prime reservation times for the rest of your cruise while chatting with staff. Steakhouses are usually my first-night choice – the quality rivals high-end land restaurants but at half the price you’d pay for equivalent meals on shore.

6. Attend the Art Auction for Free Champagne

I never intend to buy cruise ship art, but I never miss the auctions either. These events offer complimentary champagne, fascinating art stories, and air-conditioned entertainment when you need a break from the sun. The trick is enjoying the freebies without feeling pressured to bid.

I’ve learned to politely decline the auctioneer’s enthusiasm while still appreciating the experience. Some cruise lines even raffle free artwork just for attending. I’ve won small prints that made perfect souvenirs, and the champagne buzz before dinner makes for a delightful sea day tradition.

7. Use the Spa on Port Days

Massages and treatments cost significantly less when most passengers are exploring ports. I schedule my spa indulgences for port afternoons, enjoying both discounts (sometimes 25-40% off) and a nearly empty facility. Many ships offer port day spa specials that aren’t advertised until you’re onboard.

Check your daily cruise newsletter for these unadvertised deals. The thermal suites and thalassotherapy pools are practically private during port days too. I’ve had entire hydrotherapy areas to myself while watching the beautiful coastline through panoramic windows – ultimate luxury for a fraction of the price.

8. Befriend the Crew Members

Real kindness toward hardworking staff pays dividends beyond better service. I learn crew members’ names, ask about their home countries, and show genuine appreciation for their work. These connections have led to insider tips that changed my cruising experience forever.

My bartender friend John from Philippines told me about a secret deck area perfect for sunset viewing. The pastry chef I complimented gave me his personal recipe for the chocolate soufflé I loved.

Crew work incredibly long contracts away from family – a little human connection means everything to them and often results in special touches that money can’t buy.