Everything I wish I knew before my first cruise

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Cruising has slowly become my favourite way to travel. Ticking off multiple destinations in one trip and doing it in style whilst only having to unpack once? Perfection. However, if you’ve never cruised before, knowing where to start can be daunting.

I’ve had the opportunity to travel on 7 cruises now and I love it. But, there is so much I have learnt and that I am still learning about cruising, so I’m putting together this guide on all the things I wish I knew before my first cruise to hopefully help you have the perfect first cruise experience.

Is a Cruise Even Right for You?

Being completely honest, cruises are not for everyone. If you decide to cruise, you need to be able to fully relax into the experience and not be too disheartened if your ship doesn’t make it to one of the ports (this can happen based on a number of reasons, usually bad weather). If motion sickness is something you struggle with, then that might also be a reason to avoid cruising. Al;though if you take the right precautions, motion sickness shouldn’t be an issue.

But, if you are someone who wants to relax, be catered to constantly and open to the variety of fun and entertainment and the convenience that a cruise ship can offer, then I think cruising is for you. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or even as a group or family, cruising can be a fun way to travel and cater to all ages.

Types of Cruises Explained

This is sometimes where beginners get confused as there are so many different types of cruises. You can choose between; 

• Ocean cruises (Caribbean, Mediterranean, etc.)
• River cruises (Europe, Nile)
• Expedition cruises (Antarctica)

You can then also tailor your cruise to the type of vibe that you want. A friend once said to me that each cruise line is like their own personality and you need to go with the personality that matches yours, or matches the vibe that you want your trip to be.

• Want adults-only, modern, high-energy? Virgin Voyages
• Want elevated but not ultra-luxury pricing? Celebrity Cruises
• Travelling with kids who need constant entertainment? Royal Caribbean
• Want waterslides, go-karts and a lively vibe? Norwegian Cruise Line
• Want a European feel with optional luxury areas? MSC Cruises
• Do you absolutely love disney? Disney Cruise Line

Each cruise line can offer something completely different and even if you don’t have kids, Royal Caribbean might be the cruise line for you. Or, you might be a Disney adult and want to experience it at sea as they offer adult only spaces on their ships. You truly have so much choice to craft the perfect trip.

How Much Does a Cruise REALLY Cost?

One of the biggest misconceptions about cruises is that everything is included… and while cruises can offer amazing value, the price you see upfront is rarely the final amount you’ll spend. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect ??

What Is Included in Your Cruise Fare

Your base cruise price typically covers the essentials:

• ?? Your accommodation (your cabin)
• ?? Meals in main dining rooms and buffets
• ? Entertainment (shows, live music, activities)
• ????? Access to pools, gyms, and onboard facilities
• ? Travel between destinations

For many people, this is already great value — especially when you compare it to booking hotels, transport, and meals separately.

What’s Not Included (And Adds Up Quickly)

This is where first-time cruisers get caught off guard. Here are the most common extras:

• ? Drinks packages – Soft drinks, cocktails, and even bottled water often cost extra unless you purchase a drinks package (which can be £30–£80+ per day
• ? WiFi – Internet at sea isn’t cheap — expect to pay around £10–£25 per day depending on the package.
• ?? Shore excursions – Guided tours and activities in each destination can range from £30 to £200+ per excursion.
• ? Specialty dining – While main meals are included, premium restaurants (steakhouses, sushi, etc.) usually come with an extra charge.
• ????? Spa & extras – Massages, treatments, fitness classes, and some onboard experiences are additional.
• ? Gratuities (tips) – Most cruise lines automatically add daily gratuities (typically £10–£20 per person, per day).

Now, can you book an all inclusive package? Yes. This will mean that once you’re on the ship, everything is included within the package you have booked. Meaning you can order whatever you want off the drinks menu, you can post endlessly on instagram and keep in touch with everyone at home and not have to worry about racking up a bill throughout your trip.

 A Realistic Budget Example

Let’s say you book a 7-night cruise for £800. Here’s what you might actually spend:

• Cruise fare: £800
• Drinks package: £350
• WiFi: £100
• Excursions: £200
• Gratuities: £100

?? Total: ~£1,550

That’s almost double the original price — and this is why planning ahead is key. However, this is all dependent on the cabin you choose, the cruise line you sail with and the itinerary you have chosen.

How to Keep Costs Under Control

The good news? You can absolutely cruise on a budget — you just need to be intentional.

• Skip the drinks package if you don’t drink much
• Choose a few key excursions instead of all of them
• Take advantage of free onboard activities
• Look out for cruise deals that include extras (like drinks or WiFi)
• Book with a travel advisor (like me?) who can bundle perks and save you some money

How to pick your Cabin

To balcony or not to Balcony, that is thy question. There’s a lot to consider when it comes to picking your cruise cabin and it can ultimately come down to your budget and itinerary you plan to sail on.  Most cruise lines usually have a number of cabin options;

• Interior Cabins
• Ocean View Cabins
• Balcony Cabins
• Suites

Often within these cabin options, are other options. For example, Celebrity Cruises offer a balcony cabin in Concierge Class or Aqua Class. These two different classes can also give you other perks throughout your cruise. Royal Caribbean also offers two different Balcony cabins. One is your typical ocean view and the other overlooks the central atrium of the ship. Your cabin choice really can affect the cost of your cruise. For me personally, a balcony is a non-negotiable but for others, they aren’t too fussed. Interior Cabins are often the cheapest and your balcony cabins and suites are usually the higher priced options. 

The question to ask yourself is, what would make you feel like you’re getting the most out of your cruise? Are you someone who would be okay with no windows in your room or do you want the option to sit on your balcony and watch the world go by..

Time to go cruising

Now that you’ve got all the information, it’s time to book your first cruise! There are endless options for all budgets and cruising is truly one of the most special ways to travel whilst doing it in style.