Ocean cruises are one of my favorite types of travel. However, when you are aboard a large cruise ship with several thousand other passengers, there will always be those who do not follow cruise etiquette. But what is proper etiquette on board? Below is my list of tips for cruise etiquette that all passengers should consider to make the vacation more enjoyable for everyone.

Top 10 Tips for Cruise Etiquette

1. Food: One of the best things about a cruise is the food. With food served almost around the clock and a wide variety of cuisines, there’s no reason to go hungry. Avoid overfilling your plate at buffets to prevent food waste. You can always go back for more. Some cruise lines even donate leftover cooked food to underprivileged areas in port cities.
2. Saving Pool Chairs: Cruise lines ask passengers not to “reserve” pool chairs. It’s fine to hold a seat for a partner in the pool, but don’t put out towels early in the morning to claim multiple chairs. Staff may remove unattended items after a set time so others can use the seats.
3. Attire: Cruises are casual, but dress codes apply in certain areas. Swimsuits are fine during the day but not in dining rooms. Evenings in the main dining room call for casual attire such as slacks and sundresses. On formal nights, opt for dressier outfits. Offensive or profane clothing is typically prohibited.
4. Gratuities: Cruise staff often rely heavily on tips. Pre-paying gratuities when booking is the easiest way to ensure staff are compensated. If not prepaid, they are usually added to your onboard account daily. Avoid removing them unless you are tipping staff directly in cash. The average gratuity is around $14.50 per day per passenger.
5. Children: Cruises are family-friendly, but kids should not be allowed to roam unsupervised or disrupt other passengers. Encourage participation in onboard kids’ activities and ensure children follow basic etiquette.
6. All Aboard Time: Always return to the ship before the designated sailing time. Cruise ships will not wait for late passengers unless you are on a ship-sponsored excursion.
7. Muster Drills Are Mandatory: The muster drill is a required safety procedure before departure. Be at your designated station; the drill cannot conclude until all passengers are accounted for.
8. Keep Clean: With thousands of passengers on board, hygiene is essential. Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer stations, especially before meals. If you feel sick, contact the ship’s medical staff immediately to protect yourself and others.
9. Be a Good Passenger: Be mindful of noise in your cabin and public spaces. Avoid disruptive behavior; the captain has authority to disembark unruly passengers at the next port if necessary.
10. Respect Different Cultures: Cruise crews and guests come from around the world. Show respect for cultural differences both onboard and in foreign ports. Courtesy goes a long way and can lead to new friendships.

If you still have questions about cruises or are looking for a travel advisor to book your next voyage, contact me. I’d be happy to provide a complimentary quote and help plan your trip.