I booked my first cruise. Now what?
- SeaLandAir Travel
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
Hooray! You are setting sail for the very first time and will join passengers from all around the world. It is estimated that 37.1 million passengers will cruise in 2026 globally and that number will continue to grow.
Why book a cruise for your next vacation? Many people like to cruise for multiple reasons. Here are a few:
Convenience and Relaxation. Cruises eliminate the stress of travel logistics and they can be considered a “pack-once” vacation.
You get to visit multiple locations.
Many cruises include accommodation, meals, and entertainment in one price which can be viewed as cost-effective versus land-based resorts.
Family-friendly. Many cruises offer dedicated kids’ clubs, childcare services, and activities suitable for all age groups
Social Connection. Cruises can provide an engaging environment to meet new people from around the world.
So what should you expect on your first cruise? Our agents at SeaLandAir Travel have provided a few tips and tricks for first time cruisers.
Documents to review before your cruise
Be sure to read your travel documents and attach your luggage tags to your bags once you arrive at your port city. When booking with SeaLandAir Travel, our agents will fill out and print online boarding forms prior to departure (usually available up to three days before sailing). It's also your responsibility to ascertain whether you need a passport and any visas for travel, and to acquire the necessary documents prior to cruising.
SLA Agent Tip: It's always BEST to travel with a passport in case of an emergency. If something happens to you while in another country, returning to the US without a passport is more difficult. In general, passports are a great investment and are valid for 10 years!
What you should pack
Bathing Suits - Bring multiple and always keep one in your carryon bag so that you have access to it right when you board the boat.
Sunscreen - Make sure it is reef safe for any excursions. The bottles usually state "reef safe," meaning they are mineral-based and contain zinc oxide.
Natural, non-drowsy Dramamine with ginger - Even if you aren't prone to motion sickness, you never know how the boat will affect you. We recommend this product to our clients who may be concerned about motion sickness.
Water shoes - Great for protecting your feet during excursions or in the spa area.
Comfy clothes, dressy clothes, bathing suit cover-ups - Some restaurants require you to wear semi casual outfits so no holey jeans! Golf attire is suggested for men and sun dresses are great for women.
Lanyard for your cruise card - This way you can keep it close and lower the chances of losing it.
SLA Agent Tip: If you're cruising to Alaska, you will want a raincoat and lots of layers. We also suggest bringing binoculars to look for wild life while sailing.
Where you should go in case of an emergency
Before you set sail, you'll go through a "muster drill" on the ship. You will be assigned an area of the ship to meet in case of an emergency. If there is an emergency off the ship and you cannot get back onboard, the US embassy is your go-to.
SLA Agent Tip: It's always great to make sure someone at home has your trip itinerary!
Using the internet/making a phone call
On most ships, you need to purchase a Wi-Fi package. Internet usage is very limited unless you pay for onboard Wi-Fi. Generally, only a cruise app will work. You can use cruise apps to communicate with others on the ship. If you purchase the onboard Wi-Fi package, it usually works for Wi-Fi calling or you can use WhatsApp.
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