Are you planning your next cruise vacation? Whether you’re a first-timer or have a few sailings under your belt, there’s always something new to learn about making the most of your time at sea.
I’ve chatted with dozens of cruise pros to find out what they’ve stopped doing after multiple voyages. These cruise veterans have learned through trial and error what truly enhances their vacation experience – and what doesn’t!
Let’s dive into the top 10 things experienced cruisers no longer do when they set sail. These insider cruise tips might just change how you approach your next cruise vacation!
10 Things Experienced Cruisers No Longer Do on Cruises
1. Avoid Getting Off the Ship in Ports They’ve Visited Before
Experienced cruisers often stay onboard when the ship docks at ports they’ve already explored. They’ve discovered that an empty ship equals maximum enjoyment of onboard amenities! With most cruise passengers scrambling to get ashore, they take advantage of nearly-empty pools, hot tubs, and lounges.
Some seasoned cruisers tell me they love having the ship to themselves while everyone else battles crowds in port. Many find this relaxing day onboard more enjoyable than repeating shore experiences they’ve already had. Plus, they save money by skipping additional excursions or shopping in ports they’ve already visited.
2. Skip the Buffet, Especially on Embarkation Day
The buffet on embarkation day is notoriously crowded as excited passengers board and head straight for food. Long-time cruise enthusiasts avoid this chaotic scene entirely. They’ve learned that specialty restaurants or the main dining room often open for lunch on the first day with much smaller crowds.
Some experienced cruisers pack a light lunch to enjoy on deck while waiting for the initial buffet rush to subside. Others use this time to explore the ship or get settled in their cabin instead. By the time they’re ready to eat, the worst of the buffet crowds have typically dispersed.
3. No Longer Attending Sail-Away Parties
While sail-away parties seem like a must-do for first-time cruisers, seasoned cruisers often give them a pass. They’ve found these events can be overcrowded and overhyped, with overpriced drinks and blaring music. Instead, they find quieter spots on deck to enjoy the departure views.
Many well-traveled cruisers prefer to create their own sail-away tradition from their balcony or a less crowded public deck. They’ll bring a drink from their cabin or from a bar they’ve already scoped out. The peaceful experience of watching the port fade away is often more meaningful without the party atmosphere.
4. Don’t Overpack
After multiple cruises, experienced sailors have mastered the art of packing light. They know exactly what they’ll use and what will just take up precious cabin space. Cruise aficionados often limit themselves to a carry-on suitcase, even for week-long voyages.
They’ve learned that cruise cabins offer limited storage, especially when sharing with others. Most stick to a capsule wardrobe of mix-and-match items rather than packing unique outfits for each day and night. Many also take advantage of onboard laundry services for longer cruises instead of packing extra clothes.
5. Avoid Formal Nights and Dressing Up
Formal nights are increasingly being skipped by experienced cruisers who prefer comfort over glamour. They’ve realized these events often feel more obligatory than enjoyable and don’t enhance their vacation experience. Many seasoned cruisers now opt for casual dining venues on formal nights.
Some cruise veterans pack just one nice outfit that can work for any special occasion rather than formal attire. Others use formal nights as an opportunity to enjoy room service or less crowded specialty restaurants. They’ve learned that vacation should be about relaxation, not stressing over dress codes.
6. Rarely Book Cruise Line Sponsored Excursions
After a few cruises, many experienced travelers stop booking the ship’s shore excursions entirely. They’ve discovered these tours are usually overpriced and overcrowded compared to independent options. Seasoned cruisers often research and book with local tour operators directly or explore ports on their own.
Many veteran cruisers tell me they save up to 50% by booking excursions independently. They’ve become comfortable navigating ports on their own terms and pace. Some simply grab a taxi at the port for a personalized tour at a fraction of the cruise line’s price.
7. No Longer Buy Drink Packages
Drink packages seem like a good deal at first glance, but experienced cruisers have done the math. They’ve learned that unless they consume 7-8 alcoholic beverages daily, these packages rarely pay off. Many now track their drinking habits on early cruises to make informed decisions about future ones.
Some veteran cruisers prefer to bring the allowed amount of wine or champagne onboard instead. Others simply budget for à la carte drinks and find they spend less overall. Many have also discovered that drink packages create subtle pressure to “get their money’s worth,” which can detract from their cruise experience.
8. Not Feeling Compelled to Attend Every Show or Event
First-time cruisers often race from activity to activity, afraid to miss anything. Experienced cruisers have learned to be selective, choosing only the events they truly enjoy. They prioritize relaxation and quality experiences over quantity.
Frequent sailors often review the daily schedule and pick just one or two must-do activities. They’ve discovered that rushing from event to event leaves them exhausted rather than refreshed. Many prefer sea days with nothing planned except lounging with a good book or enjoying the ocean views.
9. Skip Art Auctions and Onboard Shopping Promotions
Veteran cruisers have learned to recognize the sales tactics used in onboard shopping events. They now avoid art auctions, watch sales, and other promotional events that are designed to create artificial urgency. These experienced travelers know these “deals” are rarely actual bargains.
Many seasoned cruisers tell me they’d rather spend their vacation time enjoying the ship’s amenities than sitting through sales pitches. Some have purchased artwork or jewelry on previous cruises only to find better prices at home. They’ve learned that shopping rarely adds value to their cruise experience.
10. Rarely Use the Spa Due to Upselling and High Prices
After a few cruises, many experienced travelers stop visiting the onboard spas altogether. They’ve grown tired of the aggressive product sales that often follow treatments. Most find the inflated prices hard to justify, especially with the added pressure to purchase products.
Some veteran cruisers now wait for port days when spas often offer discounts to attract customers. Others have discovered that booking treatments on embarkation day sometimes comes with lower prices. Many simply pack their own face masks and lotions for DIY spa moments on their balcony instead.
Related: Is a Thermal Spa Pass Worth it on a Cruise Ship?
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Final Thoughts on Things Experienced Cruisers No Longer Do on a Cruise
The beauty of becoming an experienced cruiser is learning to customize your vacation to your preferences, not cruise line expectations. These seasoned travelers have discovered that sometimes the best cruise experiences come from what you choose not to do.
Remember that cruise vacations should be about relaxation and enjoyment, not checking boxes on activities or following the crowd. As you gain more cruise experience, you’ll develop your own list of cruise “don’ts” that help you maximize your time at sea.
What cruise activities or traditions have you stopped doing over the years? Everyone’s perfect cruise looks different, and that’s part of what makes cruising such a popular vacation choice for so many travelers!
Happy Cruising!
Ilana
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