First time cruiser and icon - tips and reminders

[cusematt4]

 

Hi all,

 

Some friends of ours are going on their first cruise ever in a few weeks, onboard the icon of the seas.  They are in their mid 60s and love all forms of entertainment and types of food.

 

They’ve been reluctant to cruise for years but have been looking forward to finally giving cruising a chance.

 

Does anyone have any tips both for first time cruisers and for a first time icon cruise?  I’m trying to compile a list for them ranging from reminders to things to try and look out for.  Examples include

 

-check out small venues such as blues jazz bar

-check out the non bookable shows and entertainment such as showband live, red nightclub in studio b, tribute band in music hall, comedian add ons in the theater and game shows such as quest

-enable wifi calling, keep phones on airplane mode when onboard and connect wi wifi for iPhone messages and calls

-tip extra for an staff who go above and beyond 

-check out all the free food options - buffet, aqua theater, pearl cafe, park cafe

 

Anything else that comes to mind for first time cruiser or first time icon cruise for tips and reminders would be appreciated.

 

Thank you.

 

 

[Ashland]

I hope they've already booked the shows that can be prebooked on Icon.

[smokeybandit]

Just don't try to book up every hour of your day.  Save some time for spontaneous decisions and save some time just to relax.

[Ken at the beach]

Seafood buffet in thr Windjammer on boarding day

Dueling Pianos bar was fun

[Ashland]

18 minutes ago, Ken at the beach said:

Seafood buffet in thr Windjammer on boarding day

Dueling Pianos bar was fun

Also one night near the end of cruise lobster and seafood buffet in the WJ. Ask staff which night.

[broadwaybaby123]

Download the app and do your online check-in

 

On Turnaround Day, do your E-Muster Drill in the app.

 

Reserve shows that require reservations either before you leave or as soon as you board.

 

Get passports or BCs/DLs before you check-in online

 

Order your drink package before boarding to score deals

 

Pack swimsuits in your carry-on for Turnaroud Day as well as any medications you may need.  You won't see your luggage until later in the afternoon or evening, and the pools are usually open the first day

 

Reserve any Shore Excursions before Turnaround Day.  If there's one that you want to take and you wait until you board to book, that tour may be sold out

Edited 11 hours ago by broadwaybaby123

[PhillyFan33579]

Lots of good suggestions in previous posts. One thing I would mention to them is most RCI ships will not be packed with kids like Icon.