Caribbean cruises are some of the most popular cruise ship itineraries. Unfortunately, many cruisers make some big mistakes when planning and going on their Caribbean cruise vacation!
Making some of these Caribbean cruise mistakes can result in blowing your budget, being unprepared, and even being scammed!
Although I’ve been on over 30 Caribbean cruises, I still do my research before going. This way, I can avoid any potential issues and have the best cruise vacation possible.
In this post, I share 17 Caribbean cruise mistakes to avoid so you have the very best vacation ever!
Caribbean Cruise Mistakes and Watch Outs
1. Forgetting to Wear Sunscreen
If you’ve ever been on a Caribbean cruise, then you’ve definitely seen bright red cruise passengers with sunburns. The sun just seems hotter and brighter on the Caribbean sea. Not applying sunscreen is a rookie mistake that can be super painful, and can result in ruining your cruise vacation.
It’s a good idea to pack enough sunscreen for the duration of your Caribbean cruise. While it’s better to have this on your packing list, it is available for purchase onboard your cruise ship or in port.
Whether hanging out on the lido deck, shopping in port, or going to the beach, always wear sunscreen in the Caribbean.
Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise (full packing list included)
2. Booking the Wrong Cruise Line
Before booking your cruise, it’s very important to research cruise lines and cruise ships. Booking the wrong cruise ship can ruin your vacation and overall cruise experience.
When booking a cruise, choosing a cruise line that fits your vacation style is important.
If you’re planning a family-friendly cruise vacation, you’ll likely want to sail with a contemporary cruise line like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, or MSC Cruises. These cruise lines cater to families and cruisers looking for fun and active vacation.
If you want a more relaxing and upscale cruise experience, you’ll probably want to sail with a premium cruise line such as Princess, Celebrity, or Holland America. These cruise lines attract fewer kids and prioritize great service and dining.
Virgin Voyages is a great choice if you’re looking for an adult-only cruise line with a fun atmosphere. Virgin is known for its amazing food options, modern ships, and out of the box entertainment.
3. Not Purchasing Travel Insurance
When you’re on a cruise vacation, unexpected events and accidents can happen. Whether it’s a medical emergency or a trip cancellation, you’ll want to protect yourself by purchasing travel insurance.
Not only will travel insurance provide coverage should you need it, but it will also provide peace of mind. Unfortunately, not having comprehensive travel insurance can leave you vulnerable to high medical costs, lost luggage, and disrupted travel plans.
For example, if you become ill or get injured while on the cruise, the medical facilities on the ship might not be equipped to handle your situation, necessitating an expensive evacuation to the nearest hospital.
Additionally, travel insurance can cover the cost of your cruise or flights if it gets canceled due to unforeseen circumstances like severe weather or family emergencies.
4. Not Bringing Cash (Small Bills) When Going into Port
When you’re heading into a Caribbean port of call, it’s a good idea to bring small bills ($1, $5, and $10.) When you purchase an item that costs a few dollars, you may have issues getting your change back if you pay with large bills.
However, if you have smaller bills, you won’t have any issues paying in cash. When we head into port, we always bring $50-100 in small bills for souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.
Many local vendors, street markets, and small businesses in Caribbean ports prefer cash transactions and some might not accept credit cards. Additionally, ATMs may not always be readily available or might charge high fees. Having cash on hand ensures smooth transactions, and carrying smaller bills can help you avoid the hassle of trying to get change for larger denominations.
Using small bills can be advantageous when tipping service workers, such as guides, drivers, and waitstaff, allowing you to show appreciation for good service during your time ashore.
Related: Stop Doing These 12 “Polite” Things Crew Actually Dislike
5. Not Researching Your Cruise Port
While it’s possible to “wing it” in some Caribbean ports of call, doing so can often mean missing out on great experiences. It’s always better to research your destination in advance. Depending on your plans, it’s a good idea to find out how close the nearest beach is, if the port area is walkable, and whether there are shops and other attractions nearby.
Most Caribbean ports are very walkable and have beaches close by, but some may require a taxi ride to reach the best spots. By researching ahead, you can ensure you’re prepared and maximize your time ashore.
Additionally, research can help you discover hidden gems and unique experiences that you might otherwise overlook.
6. Not Bargaining or Haggling at Local Markets
When shopping for souvenirs in port, it’s important to know that you can negotiate at the markets. The prices are often inflated, as the sellers know tourists will negotiate with them.
So, when you’re in port, negotiating and haggling with the vendors is perfectly acceptable. Over the years, we’ve negotiated for crafts and souvenirs at the markets and gotten some good deals.
Bargaining is not just accepted but expected in many Caribbean markets. Vendors often start with higher prices, anticipating that customers will counter with lower offers.
Although some haggling is part of the shopping culture in many Caribbean ports, remember to be polite and friendly.
Related: 25 Best Cruise Dresses & Amazon Ladies Resort Wear [Life Well Cruised]
7. Getting Caught Up in a Tourist Scam
Although Caribbean cruise ports of call are safe overall, tourist scams can still happen. Before going on your cruise, it’s a good idea to research the different tourist scams in the ports you visit.
You can often avoid being scammed by being extra cautious and doing some research. Furthermore, your risk of being scammed is significantly less likely when you book shore excursions through the cruise line or a reputable third party tour provider.
Related: 12 Tourist Scams that Cruisers Need to Watch Out For
8. Not Staying Hydrated
Since Caribbean cruise ports can be very hot and humid, you’ll want to stay hydrated. If you have a drink package on the cruise ship, you can often get water bottles or cans and bring them into port.
Furthermore, some cruise passengers will bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Every cruise has water stations where you can fill up your water bottle with ice and water before getting off the ship.
9. Not Leaving Enough Time to Get Back to The Ship
Not leaving enough time to return to the cruise ship is a Caribbean cruise mistake that can ruin your vacation. If you’re not back on time, the cruise ship will leave without you.
A mistake that new cruisers can often make is underestimating the time it takes to return to the cruise ship when in port. Most people won’t consider the potential traffic towards the end of the day as many cruise passengers is head back to the cruise ship. Unfortunately, getting stuck in traffic can lead to missing the cruise ship.
Although it rarely happens, there are cases of cruise passengers not making it back to the cruise ship on time, and the cruise ship leaves them. This is a nightmare scenario as you must make travel arrangements to meet the ship at the next port of call or fly home.
Related: 15 Cruise Sea Day Mistakes Cruisers (Almost) Always Regret Making
10. Wearing Camouflage Clothing in Port
Certain Caribbean cruise ports have restrictions on wearing camouflage clothing due to local laws and regulations. Camouflage attire is often associated with military or paramilitary groups, and in some countries, it’s illegal for civilians to wear such clothing to avoid any misunderstandings or security issues.
If you wear camo clothing in a port where it’s prohibited, cruise ship security may ask you to change into something else before disembarking. This rule applies in destinations like Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua, and Trinidad and Tobago.
To ensure a smooth and hassle-free visit, avoid wearing camouflage clothing when traveling to these locations.
11. Overindulging in Port
While it’s easy to get caught up in the fun of port, overindulging in alcohol is a common mistake that can dampen your enjoyment. Remember, the goal is to have a great time, not to feel sick.
Drinking in the sun can intensify the effects of alcohol, potentially leading to a ruined day if you overindulge. It’s important to be mindful of your limits and enjoy your time in port responsibly.
By monitoring your alcohol intake, you can ensure that you feel your best and make the most of your cruise experience.
Related: 13 Big Drink Package Mistakes Not to Make on a Cruise
12. Not Putting Your Phone on Airplane Mode
One of the most common mistakes many first-time cruisers make is forgetting to put their phone on airplane mode. This oversight can lead to significant charges from your cell phone provider due to international roaming fees, which can add up quickly while you’re at sea.
On embarkation day, remember to switch your phone to airplane mode and connect to the cruise ship’s Wi-Fi. This simple step ensures you can still use your phone for internet access, messaging, and apps without incurring hefty roaming charges. Most cruise lines offer Wi-Fi packages, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family back home.
Additionally, putting your phone on airplane mode helps conserve battery life, as it prevents your phone from constantly searching for a signal, which can drain the battery. By managing your phone settings properly, you can enjoy your cruise vacation without worrying about unexpected and expensive phone bills.
Related: 15 Cruise WiFi Tips, Secrets & Mistakes to Avoid
13. Waiting Until the last Minute to Book Shore Excursions
If you plan on doing shore excursions during your Caribbean cruise, it’s best to book them in advance. If you wait until you get on the cruise ship to book your shore excursions, there’s a chance they will be sold out.
It’s very common for the most popular shore excursions to sell out. If you have your heart set on a bucket list experience, be sure to book online before your cruise.
Related: 10 Shore Excursion Mistakes Cruisers Almost Always Regret
14. Forgetting Port Day Bag Essentials
When you’re heading into port, there are some essentials you’ll want to bring. Cruise port essentials like sunscreen, water shoes (for rocky beaches), snorkel gear, and sand toys for children are ideal for beach days.
Other items can include a shawl or scarf to cover your arms if you’re planning to visit a religious building (like a synagogue). Packing your Caribbean cruise essentials is a great way to ensure you have the perfect day in port.
Related: What to Pack in Your Cruise Shore Excursion Day Bag
15. Booking a Short Cruise With the Intention of Relaxing
Don’t get me wrong, it is still possible to relax on a shorter cruise. However, shorter Caribbean cruises typically attract a party cruise vibe. This means the crowd onboard will likely be drinking a lot, and it can get rowdy at times.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing cruise vacation, booking a week-long trip on a premium cruise line is a good idea. The crowd on these cruise ships tends to be more laid-back and looking for a relaxing cruise experience.
Related: I Took a 4 Day Budget Cruise… Would I Do It Again?(Under $100)
16. Feeling the Need to Get Off at Every Port
Although getting off in port is fun and exciting, remember that the choice to stay on the cruise ship while it’s in port is entirely yours. If there’s a cruise port of call that you’ve already visited, or you’re just not in the mood to get off of the ship, consider staying onboard when in port.
When you stay on the cruise ship in port, you’ll get to enjoy a quiet ship. This means no food lines, ample lounge chairs by the pool, and premium service, all contributing to a truly relaxing experience.
Staying on the cruise ship while in port is a great way to enjoy the cruise ship and have an enjoyable and relaxing day.
Related: 11 Best Reasons to Stay on the Cruise Ship When in Port
17. Not Budgeting for Extras
While cruise lines cover many aspects, planning and budgeting for extras is important. Whether it’s shore excursions, a drink package, specialty dining, or a Wi-Fi package, having a budget for cruise extras before booking your cruise will make you feel prepared and in control.
This way, you can enjoy your cruise vacation without exceeding your travel budget.
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Final Thoughts on 15 Caribbean Cruise Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Cruise
In this post, we discussed the mistakes made by Caribbean cruises that could spoil your trip. From booking your shore excursions in advance, budgeting correctly, and staying hydrated, these tips will ensure you have an amazing Caribbean cruise.
Are you going on a Caribbean cruise? Please let me know your tips and questions in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.