First-Time Cruising? Here’s What You’ll Want to Know Before You Set Sail

Planning your very first cruise? How exciting! Whether you're dreaming of island hopping in the Caribbean or exploring Europe by river, cruising offers a fun, relaxing, and adventure-filled way to travel.

The best thing about cruises is that they offer something for everyone. From family-friendly activities and thrilling excursions to luxurious dining and serene views, cruises offer the perfect combination of excitement and relaxation. But if you’re new to cruising, the very thought of planning such a unique vacation can feel a bit overwhelming.

Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, so you can plan your trip with confidence and start looking forward to your next adventure. At Smooth Winds Travel®, we’ve helped many first-time cruisers feel confident and prepared—and now we’re sharing our favorite tips to help you get ready too!

Choosing the Perfect Cruise

Every cruise line has its own vibe. The first step in planning a cruise is choosing an itinerary that fits your travel style. Some are family-focused with splash zones and character meet-and-greets, while others are perfect for adults-only serenity. We help match you with the right fit based on your travel style and destination dreams.

After you’ve picked the right cruise line, think about where you want to go. Do you picture yourself soaking up the sun on tropical beaches or exploring charming European rivers? With so many options, there’s a destination for every type of traveler.

Different cruise lines attract different types of travelers. For example, Royal Caribbean is known for its fun, family-friendly vibe, while Viking River cruises is perfect for those who enjoy luxury and fine dining.

With so many options, there’s a destination & cruise line for every type of traveler.

Choosing The Right Stateroom

Picking the right stateroom can make or break your cruise experience, so it’s worth putting some thought into where you’ll be staying. The location of your stateroom and the type of room you choose can affect your comfort, convenience, and how much you enjoy your trip.

While a basic interior cabin may be the most affordable option, it’s important to think about how much time you’ll actually spend in your room. If you’re someone who likes natural light and watching the waves, an Oceanview room might be a better choice. You'll get a great view of the ocean without the higher price tag of a balcony room.

And speaking of balconies, these are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a little more space and privacy. Imagine sipping coffee in your pajamas while watching the sunrise or enjoying the ocean breeze in your own outdoor space—it’s the perfect way to unwind.

Traveling with a group or family? Consider booking a family suite or connecting rooms. These options give you more space and privacy. Plus, balcony dividers can usually be removed to create a larger shared outdoor space.

For a truly luxurious experience, some cruise lines have suites with extra perks like priority boarding, private dining, and access to exclusive areas of the ship. These suites are perfect for special occasions or if you’re simply looking to pamper yourself during your vacation.

Booking Tips for Beginners

For your first cruise, booking early can make all the difference! As a travel advisor, I recommend securing your spot as soon as possible to make sure you get the best cabin selection and the dates you’re looking for. Many first-time cruisers are surprised to learn that some itineraries and excursions sell out months in advance. Destinations like Alaska also require extra planning, since the Alaska cruise season is limited to May through September.

Another tip that I give to first time cruisers is to carefully review your cruise details. While most cruises include meals, entertainment, basic beverages, and some amenities, add-ons like specialty dining, shore excursions, soda, juice, cocktails, and Wi-Fi typically cost extra. Planning ahead not only helps you get your ideal cruise, but it also guarantees that you’re not going to be disappointed down the road.

Cruise Ships Are Like Floating Cities

One thing that first time cruisers worry about is that there won’t be enough activities to keep everyone entertained, especially on days you’re at sea. Don’t worry—cruise ships are anything but boring! In fact, they're more like floating cities packed with endless activities and entertainment. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or someone who prefers a more relaxed vacation, there are endless options to keep you entertained during your time on board.

During the day, families love the kids' clubs. Little ones can have fun while the parents take some time to relax in adult-only areas or join a class of their own. If you’re a thrill seeker looking to have a little adventure, many ships feature rock climbing walls, water slides, zip lines, and even roller coasters!

As the sun sets, be sure to check out the Broadway-style shows, live music, and themed parties. You can also relax on deck with an outdoor movie or join in on contests and competitions. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, a spa day may be just what you need. You can also take a yoga class or cozy up in one of the ship’s lounges.

But the best part about cruising is that you get to visit multiple destinations without constantly packing and unpacking. Shore excursions give you the chance to experience local cultures - whether that means sightseeing, taking on adventurous activities, or just soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach.

Booking Tips for Beginners

For your first cruise, booking early can make all the difference! As a travel advisor, I recommend securing your spot as soon as possible to make sure you get the best cabin selection and the dates you’re looking for. Many first-time cruisers are surprised to learn that some itineraries and excursions sell out months in advance. Destinations like Alaska also require extra planning, since the Alaska cruise season is limited to May through September.

Another tip that I give to first time cruisers is to carefully review your cruise details. While most cruises include meals, entertainment, basic beverages, and some amenities, add-ons like specialty dining, shore excursions, soda, juice, cocktails, and Wi-Fi typically cost extra. Planning ahead not only helps you get your ideal cruise, but it also guarantees that you’re not going to be disappointed down the road.

Last few tips

Before you even step onboard, a little prep can go a long way. Most cruise lines have their own app—download it ahead of time so you can check daily schedules, browse menus, and book activities with ease. Flight delays happen. To avoid stress, plan to arrive in your departure port city at least one day early. Bonus: you get to enjoy a little pre-cruise exploring! Don’t forget the paperwork! You’ll need your passport, cruise documents, health forms, and possibly visas, depending on your itinerary. We’ll help you make sure everything’s in order. And on embarkation day, arrive early, keep essentials like swimsuits, medications, and chargers in a carry-on, and get ready to relax—the fun starts as soon as you board!

For more great information and to meet some of our team of expert navigators CLICK HERE for a video with more great information.

The best part? You don’t have to navigate any of this alone. At Smooth Winds Travel®, we specialize in making first cruises feel easy and exciting. From picking the perfect sailing to guiding you through the details, we offer concierge-level support and joyful planning every step of the way. Ready to set sail? Let’s chart your course!