Travel

Top 8 Tips For First Time Cruisers

Cruise holidays have grown in popularity over recent years, with the appeal of visiting a number of countries in one trip and having everything you need in one place giving holidaymakers an experience they’ll never forget. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, 1.79 million Brits went on a cruise holiday in 2013.

With so many people taking to the high seas, and some for the very first time, it’s important to understand just what is required of you, especially as there are differences between cruises and other holidays that you need to take into account. Personal injury law firm Aequitas Legal has come up with some top tips to ensure you’re fully prepared for your first time on a cruise ship.

Take out travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any holiday, and with policies costing as little as £15 it’s well worth taking out cover. If you’re planning on taking more than one trip in a year, you should consider an annual policy because this can often prove better value. Before agreeing to a policy, check to see if it’s right for you and your family by making sure it covers existing illnesses or excursions you may have booked as part of your trip.

If cruising around Europe, a valid E111 card will permit you to medical treatment in any European country. The card is free of charge and all you need to do is prove you are a UK resident of British nationality by providing a National Insurance or NHS number. It’s important to remember to leave up to 10 days before your cruise holiday for your E111 card to be processed and sent. To apply for an E111 card, click here.

Check for charges with your mobile phone provider

Using your mobile phone abroad can often cost a lot more than in the UK, so check with your provider to see if there are any extra charges. Most suppliers will have special tariffs or ‘roaming packages’ that can be added onto your plan so you can make and receive calls and texts and use mobile data while travelling to various countries. It’s also worth turning your data connection off when you’re not using it, as this can often result in hefty phone bills.

Understand the dress codes

Some cruise liners have specific dress codes for the evenings, which can include formalwear. This means a tuxedo or dark suit for men and an evening or cocktail dress for women. Be sure to check for dress codes before you pack, as you don’t want to be told to leave a restaurant for not wearing the right clothing.

Pack your carry-on bag sensibly

Due to all passengers checking onto a cruise ship at the same time, your luggage may not arrive at your cabin for a few hours, so it’s essential you have everything you need to get your holiday started. We would advise you pack the following into your carry-on bag:

● Medications

● Swimwear

● Sun lotion

● Change of clothes

● Toiletries

If you’re travelling with small children, make sure you pack enough nappies and wipes to see you through.

Find your bearings on the ship

Waiting for your cabin to be ready is a great time to explore the ship, familiarising yourself with the onboard facilities, including the many restaurants, shops, spas and entertainment options available. You should also make a point of finding out where you need to go should you need medical treatment.

During your first few hours on board, a safety drill will take place to allow passengers and crew members to practice the steps that need to be taken if an emergency should occur, including how to put on a life jacket and where you need to assemble. This meeting is mandatory and can give you peace of mind during your cruise holiday.

Dine in or out, it’s up to you

There are many restaurant options available to passengers apart from the main dining room. Take advantage of the ship’s many eateries, which can include anything from pizza parlours to burger bars to fine dining, and try something new or return to an old favourite.

Know what to do if an accident happens

Becoming unwell or suffering an injury can ruin a holiday, so it’s important to understand what can happen and what action you should take to ensure you make the most of what’s left of your holiday.

If you suffer an injury or illness that was caused by something onboard on the ship, you should report the incident as soon as possible and seek medical attention. You should also alert your tour operator as you may be able to make a claim under the Package Tour Regulations (1992).

For accidents off the ship, the country’s law of the land applies, although you may be able to make a claim under the Package Tour Regulations (1992) by seeking legal advice.

Settle your bill

On the last evening of your cruise holiday, your account will be closed and you’ll be given an itemised bill. Be sure to check through this fully and dispute any charges you are unfamiliar with. The balance will be charged to the credit card you provided at the start, although some cruise liners allow you to settle in cash. It is also worth checking your account before the final day, as any problems will be easier to settle.

Photo by Vincent Lock via Flickr Creative Commons

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