Top 10 tips for an unforgettable cruise
By: Randel Stephens

Look forward to a holiday of smooth sailing

Have you always wanted to go on a luxury cruise, but been a little scared off by some of the 'horror stories' floating around?

These tips will have you sailing off into the sunset without a care in the world. The only thing you'll need to worry about is your credit card bill when you get home.

Embrace the journey
If you are travelling to embark in a different city/state etc, arrive the day before. This will allow you time to relax, so that you don't start your holiday off rushing. It will also give you some extra 'tourist time' to explore a city that you might not have been to before.

Arrive Early
Although the cruise companies often give suggested times to arrive at the terminal, going a little early often allows you to board early, avoid lengthy cues and make sure your luggage has been checked in, avoiding any possibility that you might (literally) miss the boat. Arriving early also gives you an added bonus of starting your holiday a little earlier!

Get organised
Upon boarding, book any alternative restaurants, spa treatments and excursions that you may want. You may want to go straight to the casino or pool, but by doing these other tasks early, you will almost always get the activities and times that you want and then have the peace of mind of knowing that you just need to turn up and enjoy!

Don't let manners fly out the window
Address the staff as human beings. These people work incredibly long hours and are often on board for up to 9 months at a time. By being friendly and not demanding or demeaning, you will be amazed at the level of service you will receive (and you might even make some lifelong friends).

Which cabin suits you?
When booking your cabin think carefully about what you want. The cheapest is not necessarily the best. If you are a night person, someone who is going to be out and about seeing shows, having a quiet drink and generally socialising, you may want to think about an inside cabin. These are generally very quiet and dark so you can have a good sleep and not be disturbed (on the rare occasion that you're actually in your room, that is). On the other hand if you are a person who gets up early and likes a little privacy, how about a balcony cabin. They are a little more expensive, but having coffee and breakfast on your own balcony is something that you will never forget.

Know your limit
Be responsible and careful about how much you drink. It's easy to get carried away as you don't pay cash for anything, and keeping track of your expenses can be somewhat difficult. Apart from the cost, the sea can sometimes become rough. Alcohol and big waves don't mix. As you become more of a regular cruiser, these things become a lot easier to control.

Join in the fun
There are million things to do on board. Join the other holiday-makers and have a good time (and don't take yourself too seriously). You will find that nearly everyone on board is relaxed, friendly and just as eager to find new friends as you. There are courses to learn new skills like computer skills, pottery and cooking. There are also games like bingo, trivia and game show competitions. Put yourself out there and you will find that you will meet new people and have a great time.

Relax
On board, it doesn't matter if you don't do everything in one day! You can do as little or as much as you want. Forget your watch. Even if you miss meals, there is usually somewhere on board that is serving food, or order room service.

Don't over pack
Most people make the mistake of taking an entire wardrobe of clothes. There's no need. Casual day wear for both men and women is usually all that's required along with a jacket or suit for formal evenings and parties. You don't need a different outfit each day. This will vary depending on your destination and cruise line. Check with them before departure.

Don't overindulge
Finally, if you don't want to put on too much weight (and you will), don't eat 3 large meals a day. Food is plentiful and with all the relaxing, drinking and eating there is a tendency to overindulge. Two meals a day or smaller portions may be the way to go.