4 things that will surprise you on your first cruise
We all remember our first time – our first cruise, that is. There’s something very special about stepping onboard to experience the grandeur of a vessel, the saltiness in the air and the buzz of all the travellers you will spend the duration of your time with.
Although you may know what to expect, there are always little quirks that can surprise you. Here are the myriad of little shocks you may get when you first set sail on your oceanic getaway.
1. The ship is massive
We all know cruises carry thousands of passengers and crew members. However, taking in the sheer size of it is shocking when you see it for the first time. Even if it is a relatively small ship, getting your bearings and learning your way around takes a fair few days until you’re completely confident to know where you are at any given moment on the large ship.
The great thing about technology in relation to cruises though, is that getting lost isn’t such a big deal anymore because there are apps that allow you to find your way around without having to ask one of the staff members or another traveller who is just as confused as you.
2. The Wi-Fi is expensive
We have all heard the rumours and warnings to “beware” of the wireless internet that is offered onboard to passengers. Not only is it incredibly expensive to have the most basic access to your friends and family back on land, the actual connection is not that great.
Take our advice when we say the Wi-Fi is not a wise investment unless you absolutely need to maintain contact with family and friends who are not onboard the ship with you.
3. The food is better than you expect
Some ships carry more than 7,000 crew members and cruises, so it is very easy to assume the food is not as good as it is off land.
However, despite what might seem like an accurate assumption, skilled chefs are hired to fulfil your stomachs cravings.
Onboard, there are exceptional food standards and it may be your favourite part of the trip. The best part about cruising, is that the food is not only incredibly tasty – it is never-ending!
4. Everyone dresses up
The occasional wedding might be one of the only places you see people dress to the nines, as on land there are not too many reasons to pull out your best suit or party dress. What you can definitely expect to see while cruising is people dressed to their absolute best during fancy dinner nights.
If that’s not your cup of tea though, you can always opt for room service, head to the buffet or even rock your day shorts and summer blouses to the dress up nights – no one really minds.
What surprised you on your first cruise? Let us know in the comments below.