Stepping onto a cruise ship opens up a world of possibilities for your vacation at sea! However, many first-time cruisers (and even some veterans!) don’t realize just how much the crew can do to make your sailing extra special.
I’ve learned that a simple request can transform your cruise experience from good to absolutely fantastic. The crew members are there to serve and ensure you have the time of your life on board.
In Your Cabin
1. Extra Hangers for Your Wardrobe
Running out of closet space? Your cabin attendant can bring extra hangers to your stateroom. If you’re an overpacker like me who brings outfits for every possible occasion, these extra hangers are lifesavers.
You can ask for these first thing on embarkation day, though remember your cabin attendant is super busy that day. They’re perfect for keeping your clothing organized in those compact cabin spaces.
Smart packing tips:
- Ask for hangers right away on day one so they’re ready when you unpack
- Some cruisers bring their own foldable travel hangers to avoid waiting
- Hang two light items on one hanger to maximize your closet space
- Use hangers with clips for pants and skirts to save even more room
2. Bathrobes On Request
Not all cabin categories automatically have bathrobes, but most ships carry extras. Your stateroom attendant can bring fluffy bathrobes to lounge in comfort after a dip in the pool.
3. Daily Ice Service
Want to keep your drinks cool in your cabin? Ask for an ice bucket refill schedule. Many cabin attendants will happily keep your ice bucket filled throughout your cruise.
4. Special Bed Configurations
Whether you need twin beds instead of a queen or extra pillows for comfort, your cabin attendant can reconfigure your sleeping arrangements to suit your preferences.
5. Maintenance and Repairs
Notice a dripping faucet or a TV that’s not working right? Your cabin attendant can quickly arrange for maintenance to fix these issues, often while you’re enjoying activities elsewhere.
In the Dining Room
6. Off-Menu Dishes
The main dining room menu isn’t always set in stone. Many cruise waiters can arrange for off-menu items or even prepare something special if the galley has the ingredients.
Common off-menu items you can request:
- Indian vegetarian dishes (available on most major lines)
- Simpler versions of menu items without sauces
- Special desserts like chocolate lava cake or ice cream sundaes
- Menu items from previous nights that you particularly enjoyed
- Order from the kid’s menu for anything from a chicken tender meal to an ice cream sundae
7. Table Reassignment
Not loving your assigned table? The maître d’ can often help with a switch to a better location or a more suitable dining time. On my recent Royal Caribbean cruise, they were incredibly accommodating with this request.
8. Consistent Service
Found a waiter whose service you love? Ask the maître d’ if you can be seated in their section each night. We did this on our Princess Cruise after connecting with a wonderful waitress on night one.
9. Special Dietary Needs
Whether you have allergies or dietary restrictions, dining staff can accommodate with advance notice. They’ll often prepare special versions of menu items just for you.
10. Wine Storage
Didn’t finish that bottle of wine? Your waiter can store it for you to enjoy another night, no matter which restaurant you’re dining in next.
Around the Ship
11. Tracking Down Special Drinks
Bartenders can often get your favorite drink from another bar if they don’t stock it themselves. They might even remember your preferred cocktail throughout your cruise. I’ve had bartenders send assistants to specialty bars to grab specific liquors or mixers just to make my requested drink.
Your bartender might also:
- Create a custom cocktail based on your flavor preferences
- Remember your drink order from day to day (sometimes even your favorite seat!)
- Provide stronger or weaker versions of standard cocktails upon request
- Track down special garnishes from the dining room if you have a preference
- Serve your favorite wine, even if it’s not usually stocked at this specific bar
12. Reservations Assistance
Guest services can help secure reservations for specialty dining or shows that appear fully booked online. They sometimes have access to reserved space not visible in the booking system. It does tend to be very rare as a last resort, but it can sometimes happen.
13. Lost Item Recovery
Left something at the pool or in a restaurant? The crew has an impressive system for tracking down lost items across the ship.
14. Shore Excursion Advice
Beyond the official shore excursion desk, many crew members can offer insider tips about ports they visit regularly. They know which beaches are less crowded or where to find authentic local cuisine.
Crew members often spend their days off exploring these destinations and can share recommendations you won’t find in any guidebook.
What to ask the crew about ports:
- Safe areas for independent exploration
- Authentic local restaurants where crew members actually eat
- The best times to visit popular attractions to avoid crowds
- Reliable local transportation options and fair pricing
- Which ship-sponsored excursions actually deliver the best value
Related: Shore Excursion Mistakes Cruisers Almost Always Regret
15. Celebration Arrangements
Marking a special occasion? Let guest services know, and they can arrange for cabin decorations, specialty cakes, or even champagne to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or honeymoons. Many cruise lines offer complimentary celebration packages when notified in advance, while more elaborate options can be purchased.
Celebration perks you might receive:
- A birthday cake served at dinner
- Anniversary or honeymoon decorations in your stateroom
- Special recognition at shows or entertainment venues
- Priority seating at specialty restaurants
- Surprise in-cabin treats or wine delivery
16. Language Assistance
Need help communicating in a port? Many ships have crew members from dozens of countries who are happy to translate or write down phrases for you.
17. Tech Troubleshooting
Having issues with the cruise app or onboard Wi-Fi? The Wi-Fi desk team may be able to help resolve connection problems or explain features you might be missing.
18. Medical Supplies
Forgot essential medications or need basic first aid? The medical center can provide common over-the-counter medications (at a cost) and some basic supplies (like a bandage). It is always best to bring your own supplies but it can be helpful for those unexpected situations.
19. Laundry Emergencies
Spilled something on your formal night outfit? The housekeeping team can sometimes handle emergency cleaning or pressing, even outside normal laundry service hours. There’s no guarantee that the service is available or that they can have it back and ready for when it’s needed. But you can always ask if the situation comes up.
Related: How to Do Laundry on a Cruise? Tips, Tricks and Must-Knows
20. Priority Disembarkation
If you have an early flight or special circumstances, guest services can sometimes arrange priority disembarkation, saving you valuable time on the final morning.
Making the Most of Crew Assistance
Remember that a friendly approach and reasonable expectations go a long way. The crew wants to help make your cruise memorable, but they’re juggling many responsibilities.
Timing your requests during less busy periods will usually get you better results. Embarkation day is hectic for everyone, so save non-urgent requests for day two if possible. And while tipping isn’t required for these extra services, recognizing exceptional help with additional gratuity is always appreciated.
Best practices for requesting special assistance:
- Be specific about what you need, rather than making general complaints
- Learn crew members’ names and use them when making requests
- Show genuine appreciation for their efforts with a smile and thank you
- For significant special assistance, consider a small cash tip on the spot
- If someone truly goes above and beyond, note their name for special recognition at the end of your cruise
Next time you set sail, don’t be shy about asking for these little extras. The crew’s willingness to go above and beyond is what truly makes cruising such a special vacation experience. Just remember, a little kindness and patience on your part will go a remarkably long way in making the crew eager to help make your vacation perfect. go a remarkably long way in making the crew eager to help make your vacation perfect.
