If you’ve never been on a cruise before, the idea of boarding a vast ship with thousands of other holidaymakers might seem a little daunting. Yet cruising is one of the most rewarding ways to travel — offering the chance to explore multiple destinations, indulge in fine food, enjoy top-notch entertainment, and all without ever having to repack your suitcase. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your first cruise is smooth sailing.
Cruising blends the joy of travel with the comfort of a floating hotel. Unlike traditional holidays, where you might spend hours in transit between destinations, a cruise allows you to see the world while enjoying consistent comfort and service. Each morning brings a new port or coastline, and your travel time is filled with dining, shows, spa treatments, pools, and more. It’s the ideal holiday for those who love variety but don’t want the hassle that often comes with it.
One of the most important decisions when booking your first cruise is choosing the right ship and cruise line for your preferences. Big ships, such as those operated by Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, or Norwegian Cruise Line, are floating resorts. They’re packed with activities like waterslides, theatres, zip lines, rock climbing walls, and a vast choice of dining options. These are great for families, groups, or travellers who enjoy a high-energy atmosphere and plenty of entertainment around the clock.
On the other hand, smaller ships offer a more intimate and relaxed experience. Lines like Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, Azamara, or even Windstar focus more on personal service, immersive itineraries, and a quieter onboard ambiance. Smaller vessels can access ports that mega-ships simply can’t reach, which means you may visit less crowded, off-the-beaten-track destinations. These cruises are ideal for travellers who value culture, cuisine, and a slower pace over onboard thrills.
Luxury lines such as Silversea, Seabourn, and Regent Seven Seas combine the best of both worlds: smaller ship sizes with exceptional service, all-inclusive pricing, and meticulously crafted itineraries.
Packing for a cruise is about preparing for both shipboard life and excursions ashore. During the day, casual and comfortable clothing is perfect for strolling the deck, lounging by the pool, or heading ashore. In the evenings, however, many cruise lines encourage a more polished look. Formal nights are still a tradition on some ships, particularly on lines like Cunard, where black tie is the norm. Others, like Celebrity Cruises or Princess Cruises, are more flexible, leaning towards ‘smart casual’ attire with optional formal evenings.
Swimwear is a must, as most ships have pools, hot tubs, and sun decks. If you plan on using the spa or fitness centre, don’t forget gym clothes. You’ll also need your passport, any required visas, travel insurance documents, and boarding passes. A small day bag is handy for shore excursions, and if you’re prone to seasickness, it’s wise to bring remedies — although many guests are surprised by how stable cruise ships feel, especially on calmer routes.
Boarding day can be busy, so it’s worth arriving at the terminal early to beat the crowds and make the most of your first afternoon on board. Once settled in, you’ll receive a daily schedule — often delivered to your cabin — outlining everything from entertainment and meal times to fitness classes and enrichment lectures. It’s entirely up to you how busy or relaxed your days are. You might join a wine tasting, attend a Broadway-style show, or simply find a quiet spot on deck with a good book.
Dining is a highlight of cruise life. Larger ships offer an incredible range of eateries, from formal dining rooms to buffets, burger joints, sushi bars, and specialty restaurants. Smaller ships tend to focus on quality over quantity, with elegant à la carte menus and local ingredients, especially on lines like Oceania or Silversea.
Keep in mind that while most things are included in your fare, some extras can add up. Speciality dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, and drinks (unless on an all-inclusive line) often come at an additional cost, so it’s worth reviewing what’s included when you book.
Waking up in a new destination is one of cruising’s greatest pleasures. Whether you dock in a bustling city, a tranquil island, or a historic port, you can usually explore on your own or join a guided excursion arranged by the cruise line. Shore excursions are particularly useful for first-timers, as they take care of transport, guides, and timing — crucial when you need to be back before the ship departs.
That said, independent exploration offers greater flexibility and is often more affordable. Just remember: the ship won’t wait if you’re late returning, so keep an eye on the all-aboard time. Smaller ships often stay longer in port or even overnight, giving you more time to experience the destination, especially in places where nightlife or dining ashore is part of the charm.
Your first cruise is likely to be the beginning of a lasting love affair with life at sea. Whether you opt for the buzz of a mega-ship with countless activities, or the quiet elegance of a smaller vessel visiting lesser-known ports, there’s a cruise experience to suit every taste and budget. Take the time to research your options, pack wisely, and embrace the adventure with an open mind. You might find that once you cruise, you’ll never want to holiday any other way again.
