Pointers for first time cruisers

[Jezzieone]

My mom and I will be going on our first cruise at the end of July to Alaska and I was wondering what pointers and tips that you might have for us. I have already gleaned a great deal of information that is quite useful. I am still trying to understand the ultimate soda card and any other similar type things you can get to reduce costs while on the ship. Not sure what all is "included" and what is not. Also, what things would be useful to know for a first timer? I see now that a lanyard or some way of carrying the card is a good thing to plan ahead for, what else is there that someone who has never been would need to know? Thanks in advance! :eek:

[2little time]

My mom and I will be going on our first cruise at the end of July to Alaska and I was wondering what pointers and tips that you might have for us. I have already gleaned a great deal of information that is quite useful. I am still trying to understand the ultimate soda card and any other similar type things you can get to reduce costs while on the ship. Not sure what all is "included" and what is not. Also, what things would be useful to know for a first timer? I see now that a lanyard or some way of carrying the card is a good thing to plan ahead for, what else is there that someone who has never been would need to know? Thanks in advance! :eek:

There is a coffee card that gets you 15 specialty coffees and unlimited fresh brewed coffee as long as one specialty punch is left. The cost is $31. Additionally you can get an Ultimate Beverage package for $8.05/day per person which gets you unlimited milk shakes, smoothies, juices, mocktails etc. This is a sticker that goes on your cruise card. You can also purchase an unlimited fountain soda sticker.

[caribill]

Welcome to cruising.

 

I have two suggestions.

 

1. Go to the Princess web site and download the "Cruise Answer Book" which will answer many questions you may have about cruising on Princess. You can go to https://book.princess.com/captaincircle/brochureRequest.page to request the download.

 

2. Join the roll call for your cruise. There you will meet others who will be on the ship with you and they can help you with any questions. Go to http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=106# and select your ship and then select your cruise.

 

Happy cruising,

[TLC535]

First ...Welcome to Cruise Critic :D here is a thread you might want to check out that has been going on for a couple years...some good info. out there for a newbie ;) some of the early post may be a lil' out dated (so don't take everything as the "gospel") but it will give you more of an idea of things aboard...or more specific questions you may have....enjoy Alaska, it is beautiful...Happy sailing :)

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1260835&highlight=princess+secrets#

[Pam in CA]

I am still trying to understand the ultimate soda card and any other similar type things you can get to reduce costs while on the ship.

The regular soda card, which is really just a sticker that goes on the card of the person for whom it's purchased (not shareable) and includes unlimited soda dispensed from any bar on the ship. It does not include canned sodas or anything in your mini-frig in your cabin. The Ultimate card is also a sticker and in addtion to unlimited soda, includes any mocktail or virgin drink, juice (which is free at breakfast but not the rest of the day), shakes, and smoothies.

 

[Potstech]

Many people who have never been on a cruise will tell you stories or give you advice. Best thing to do is read here as much as possible. Read between the lines on many postings. You will have to form an opinion on what you THINK will happen. Just because one poster says something is terrible does not make it so. Enjoy yourself, you will never be able to do everything on the ship in a day and do not quit asking question even after you are on board.

 

Ask more questions here as they come up and someoen will usually provide an answer.

[wizard-of-roz]

May I suggest you bring a lot of patience onboard with you. There will be LINES for this and LINES for that. If you plan ahead by taking the "Patters" [the paper that is placed in your cabin every day by your Steward] and use a highlighter to mark the stuff that interests you and remember the time it starts you'll make for a more enjoyable cruise. Plan to be at the event early [avoid the crowds] and the inablility to have a "good seat" or, even a seat at all!!!!!

Princess Theatres were not built to hold the entire ship and they don't have bench seating. It's more like theatre-style and there will be stairs to climb up or down. The handicapped seating is in the rear of the theatre and again, plan ahead to get to the show at least 1/2 hour before it starts or there will be SRO [standing-room-only]!!!!!!!! :(

Remember, most of the food venues are in the middle or rear of the ship and the theatre is located in the front of the ship. So, be prepared to walk. The Promenade Deck is the best onboard Princess, it's wide enough to hold a deck chair and a couple walking hand-in-hand, enjoying the sea breezes, all at the same time [this is very rare on most ships and so much enjoyed by all!] :) It goes all the way from the back to the front of the ship.

Do go to the Afternoon Tea and don't forget that most of the movies enjoyed at MUTS [movies-under-the-stars] can be enjoyed in the privacy of your own cabin at various times during the day. READ YOUR PATTERS!

Relax, smile, have fun and get "hooked" on the most enjoyable vacation you'll ever have. You unpack once, the only traffic you'll be fighting will be the folks who have to be on the elevator first or need to be in the front of every line! Don't let them "bug" you......plan ahead and remember.....sometimes the best way to go up on an elevator is to get on the "down" elevator first, it has to go up eventually. It may take a few seconds longer but you won't be struggling trying to get on. :)

Come back and tell us all about your voyage!

[wizard-of-roz]

Don't hesitate to approach someone, who is sitting all alone at a big table in the buffet area and ask if you may sit with them, it's a great way to make a new friend.

Do have lunch or a snack at the International Cafe on Deck 5......they make the best panini sandwiches and the chicken salad is to die for.

Princess Pizza is the very best on any ship we've ever sailed.

Don't forget to get your ice cream cone on Deck 14. Just ask a crew member and they'll direct you.

Look for the red or blue in the carpeting where your cabin is.....it will help you find it every time you exit the elevator. Port [left side of ship is RED] and Starboard [right side] is Blue. Just remember PORT WINE IS RED. ;)

[skynight]

My Thoughts:

You will be busy each day on an Alaska cruise with shore side activities/tours on at least 3 days. On a few other days you will have scenic cruising which will fill up parts of the day.

 

Read the Princess Patter each day. It will be delivered to your cabin each evening. The Patter lists all the on board activities for the following day, including games, like bingo & trivia, when & where live musicians will entertain, shows and showtimes, drinks of the day, time the ship docks and departs, casino times, everything. Choose what you like. You will not be able to do it all. I have found more enjoyment and less rushing around when I plan ahead each day. You might want to carry the Patter with you. Many do.

 

Your cruise card is your ID to get on and off the ship, your room key, and your on board charge card. No cash is used, except in the Casino, and if you want to reward someone with an extra tip. So lock everything in the room safe. Some people carry the cruise card on a lanyard. If you want to do that just go to the Customer Service desk and they will punch the card for you. I just keep it in my pocket. You have to bring the lanyard with you, or buy one in the gift shop.

 

Have fun. Alaska is very nice.

[Goodtogomom]

Congratulations on your first cruise!

There are many activities on-board that don't incur an extra cost. Check your daily newsletter The Princess Patter and it will give you every activity, what time, where to be and if there is an extra cost (like Bingo & Casino). If soda is your preferred beverage, it's good to get the soda card as it can be more expensive to buy them individually than pay the flat fee up front

I usually carry a small purse to hold the following:

my cruise card (which serves as room key and for any onboard purchase)

chapstick/lipstick

small camera

sunglasses

I don't want to always be running to my room and I have found that these items are the minimum I want to have with me onboard. I just got a new one that is a cross body type so I won't lose track of it.

I also bring an inexpensive closet organizer ($10 at Walmart). I get the kind that has shelves for sweaters. I hang it in the close and it gives me more "drawer space" for undergarments, socks, etc. It's inexpensive and if I choose to leave it behind it's no big deal.

My husband drinks a lot of water and Princess allows passengers to bring a case of water. We always do because bottled water onboard is expensive. This way we always have bottled water to take on excursions. When the cruise is done, we take enough to get us home and give the rest to our room steward. Our stewards have always appreciated it.

Our last cruise was 10 days to Alaska out of San Francisco. We invested in a few travel size games to carry with us. We found a flock of new friends as we looked for places to play and admired some of the more unique games. There are games in the library that you can use as well.

My husband and I really enjoy the sea days as much as port days because there is so much to do.

One last thing, don't forget to be prepared for the gratuity. Other than deciding about the soda or coffee cards, that is the only other expense you should plan on. On our first cruise, we were on a tight budget and I kept track of all the receipts for everything we did onboard that incurred a cost (booze & souvenirs) so we wouldn't go over budget. When we received our final bill, I was right on the money (except for taxes). If you sign for something, make sure the charges are there (usually they are). If for some reason the steward doesn't write in the amount, ask them fill it in before you sign.

Plan on having a great time!

[wizard-of-roz]

Could someone explain the drink sticker to me. Not so much for soda's but for smoothies. I bring my own caffeine/free diet coke but I do like smoothie drinks. Is this a special sticker aside from the soda one? How much is it and what is the cost of a smoothie?

[caribill]

When we received our final bill, I was right on the money (except for taxes).

 

What taxes?

[Jezzieone]

Congratulations on your first cruise!

 

There are many activities on-board that don't incur an extra cost. Check your daily newsletter The Princess Patter and it will give you every activity, what time, where to be and if there is an extra cost (like Bingo & Casino). If soda is your preferred beverage, it's good to get the soda card as it can be more expensive to buy them individually than pay the flat fee up front

 

I usually carry a small purse to hold the following:

my cruise card (which serves as room key and for any onboard purchase)

chapstick/lipstick

small camera

sunglasses

I don't want to always be running to my room and I have found that these items are the minimum I want to have with me onboard. I just got a new one that is a cross body type so I won't lose track of it.

 

I also bring an inexpensive closet organizer ($10 at Walmart). I get the kind that has shelves for sweaters. I hang it in the close and it gives me more "drawer space" for undergarments, socks, etc. It's inexpensive and if I choose to leave it behind it's no big deal.

 

My husband drinks a lot of water and Princess allows passengers to bring a case of water. We always do because bottled water onboard is expensive. This way we always have bottled water to take on excursions. When the cruise is done, we take enough to get us home and give the rest to our room steward. Our stewards have always appreciated it.

 

Our last cruise was 10 days to Alaska out of San Francisco. We invested in a few travel size games to carry with us. We found a flock of new friends as we looked for places to play and admired some of the more unique games. There are games in the library that you can use as well.

 

My husband and I really enjoy the sea days as much as port days because there is so much to do.

 

One last thing, don't forget to be prepared for the gratuity. Other than deciding about the soda or coffee cards, that is the only other expense you should plan on. On our first cruise, we were on a tight budget and I kept track of all the receipts for everything we did onboard that incurred a cost (booze & souvenirs) so we wouldn't go over budget. When we received our final bill, I was right on the money (except for taxes). If you sign for something, make sure the charges are there (usually they are). If for some reason the steward doesn't write in the amount, ask them fill it in before you sign.

 

Plan on having a great time!

 

Thank you for the great tips. We are doing the 10 day trip to Alaska out of SF so anything you can tell me about that specific trip would be great.

[KevintheIrishDJ]

Bring a glow light for the room.;)

 

Pax et bonum,

Kevin

[tickford]

Could someone explain the drink sticker to me. Not so much for soda's but for smoothies. I bring my own caffeine/free diet coke but I do like smoothie drinks. Is this a special sticker aside from the soda one? How much is it and what is the cost of a smoothie?

 

This is included in the Ultimate Soda and more package. At $8-05 a day you would have to work out whether it is worth it. I have bought one of these and it was worth it for me. They put the sticker on your cruise card and you just show that whenever you want a drink.

 

Unlimited Soda & More Package

Indulge yourself with this premium Unlimited Soda & more Package,† entitling you to the above Unlimited Soda Package plus any mocktails, juices, shakes, floats and complimentary hot chocolate throughout your cruise. Price includes service charge.

 

OP,

 

Many people who have never been on a cruise will tell you stories or give you advice. Best thing to do is read here as much as possible. Read between the lines on many postings. You will have to form an opinion on what you THINK will happen. Just because one poster says something is terrible does not make it so. Enjoy yourself, you will never be able to do everything on the ship in a day and do not quit asking question even after you are on board.

 

It's not just people who have never been on a cruise that tell you stories but also seasoned cruisers who have set ideas and think that their way is the only way. As Potstech says read these forums, form your own opinion and take away what you want from all other opinions.

 

I am buying a proper lanyard to use on our next cruise, on the last one we got one (spiral) from the casino on board. I found it easier to keep the card on it and around my neck so I was basically hands free wherever I went on board.

 

On our Alaskan cruise last year there were very few lines but when there was we just dealt with it. It was a fun cruise, enjoyed every bit of it.

 

Have fun.

[RunnerGirl26.2]

Cabin hints:

1. Suitcases will fit easily under the beds and will be out of the way there.

2. Walls are metal so a few magnets are handy to hold excursion tickets, patters, etc.

3. We bring a small folding mesh "cube" to hold dirty laundry in the bottom of the closet. This also makes it easier when you choose to do laundry. We brought our own detergent "pods" and dryer sheets too.

4. Extra hangers.

5. We brought one of those narrow, rectangular shoe hangers to hang in the closet. Good for shoes, gloves and hats, and storing other small items that you may misplace.

6. Clip on "Scent Portables" from Bath and Body Works nice in the bathroom.

7. Don't forget or mis-enter the code you choose for the safe. DH was putting stuff in the safe and was tired. Entered one wrong number--oops.

8. Short extension cord with multiple outlets or small power strip for charging electronics.

[Nomsayin]

Bring a good pair of binoculars.

[paddingtonbear]

It is also a good idea to do a search on this forum for the particular ship you are sailing on. There are a few with great tips.

 

Some of the trip reviews are really helpful.

[caribill]

Cabin hints:

4. Extra hangers.

 

 

No sure if you are saying to bring extra hangers with you.

 

If so, there is no need to do so as your cabin steward will provide all the extra hangers you need.

[Belle]

I've been on her three times. Smaller ship

but nice. Only thing doesn't have a middle

elevator. So have to walk lenght of ship

to dining or theater. When you find your way

around, you'll find the best way/floors to get

here and there.

 

As others have said read your Platters each night

and see what's going on each day on the ship.

Sorry to say..you do have to go early to get a seat

for the early shows. Late shows usually have more seats open.

 

They show movies in the theater too. Not just Mutts.

TV has some too.

 

There is free coffee, tea, ice tea..water on ship

is fine to drink. Ice cream is free. Soft serve by

pool. real ice cream in dining room, lunch and dinner.

 

Food is free except the steak place. Part of Lido

at night. So have dining room,buffet, pizza, hamburger's ect.

Some days extra buffets outside around the pool.

The Lido has great windows for viewing Alaska but it's an other

place you have to get to early for seats. Think some people

sit there all day.

Room service is free. Just a small tip.

 

Of course drinks, internet, casino, tours, bingo costs extra!

If you want to buy internet, buy first day..get extra time.

 

For the room..travel clock, night light, I bring a thing

that can hold three plugs. Only one socket by the desk.

Bring a hair dryer if needed. Ones on ship not that good.

You can ask for robes.

 

Alaska is beautiful but the weather..never know what

you'll get. Dress in layers. Bring a small travel umbrella.

I loved the ports, the small towns. Talk to the locals,

learn a lot.

 

If you have any questions..just ask..will try to answer.

[PunkiC]

Don't hesitate to approach someone, who is sitting all alone at a big table in the buffet area and ask if you may sit with them, it's a great way to make a new friend.

 

Do have lunch or a snack at the International Cafe on Deck 5......they make the best panini sandwiches and the chicken salad is to die for.

 

Princess Pizza is the very best on any ship we've ever sailed.

 

Don't forget to get your ice cream cone on Deck 14. Just ask a crew member and they'll direct you.

 

Look for the red or blue in the carpeting where your cabin is.....it will help you find it every time you exit the elevator. Port [left side of ship is RED] and Starboard [right side] is Blue. Just remember PORT WINE IS RED. ;)

 

I absolutely agree on reaching out to meet people in the Horizon Court--never hesitat to join people at a table with empty places. We love making new friends.

 

Yes, the Princess Pizza is amazing. My very favorite and I have a hard time restraining myself.

 

Even though I am Elite on Princes, I have never thought about the carpet color. Crazy. The way I remember the color of the running lights on ships and boats of all sizes is, "There is plenty of red port left in the glass". For some reason, that just sticks in my mind.

[Te Aroha]

Room service is free apart from a $3 charge for pizza, food is 24 hours some where on the ship so try everything :) Breakfast they make fresh omelette and waffles for you, look for where they are being made. You can eat Breakfast lunch and dinner in the main dining room if you wish, or you can go self service at the buffet. You can get hot chocolate and tea with your coffee card no charge same as fresh brewed coffee, you only get charged for speciality coffees. The water on the ship is great to drink we take our own bottles to refill and put them in the fridge for later use. If you forget your beach towel from your room they are available at the pools also blankets if you need them. If you need anything in your room ask your steward they will get almost anything for you from extra blankets and pillows to an ice bucket and glasses. I am sure I have missed many other good things...

 

 

I always bring with me from home a small shower caddy (plastic) with suction cups to hold shampoo etc in the shower the shelf is very tiny and I always drop the soap :) A few large magnetic clips for the bottom of the over friendly shower curtain. A small travel clock and I never ever leave home without a roll of duck tape lol. That can fix any problem you come across from broken zips on bags, a hem that has to come down to creaks and squeaks in the cabin :)

 

Have fun and enjoy your cruise :)

[akeasley]

If you are wanting to buy something on the ship, wait till the end of the week when they have a big sale in one of the dining rooms. It can be crowded if yo go early but also worth the savings :)

[Cruisin' Chick]

I haven't seen this, but this is a basic tip: unless you're flying into your embarkation port, plan to arrive at least a day ahead. There are many ways a flight can get cancelled or delayed, and why risk the stress of trying to get to the ship on time.

[don'tleavewithoutme]

All of the above are great tips - do have a wonderful time!

 

If you decide you are OK with using the provided hair dryer (I am), please note that it is at the desk, mounted on the wall. You will not find it in the bathroom! My last cruise I overheard some newbies loudly grousing about there being no hairdryer provided.... Wrong.

 

Also, if you are used to using a top sheet rather than just a bottom sheet and a duvet, you will need to ask your steward to provide one for you.