You're a first time cruiser and it's all a bit overwhelming. I got you!
Before I booked a Virgin Voyages cruise to Spain and France, I had a lot of preconceptions. I thought cruising was strictly for older folks with pensions to burn, spending their golden years sipping cocktails in the sun. Would I be stuck on the sea for days, surrounded by strangers? Would I be bored out of my mind? And what about the food? These were all the thoughts racing through my head as I packed for what I imagined would be a trip filled with regrets.
Oh, and speaking of packing—what on earth do you bring on a cruise? Turns out, you can pack whatever makes you feel fabulous. But, one pro tip: don’t bother packing a steamer if you’re travelling from the UK (it’s a no-no). However, you can pack two bottles of wine for your room, which is an absolute win.
I stepped onto that ship fully prepared to feel out of place. Instead, I was hit with the most unexpected reality check: this wasn’t just a holiday, it was a vibe. From the moment we left Portsmouth, I left the everyday me on the dock. Suddenly, I became a free-spirited, up-for-anything, let’s-party-till-3-am kind of woman. Gym classes? Yep, I was there. VHS-style workouts that felt like a throwback to the ‘80s? You bet. And don’t even get me started on the nights—dressed up, talking to everyone, and being the first on the dancefloor like I owned it.
Who was this woman? I had no idea I could be her, but I loved every second of it. And the best part? It wasn’t just me. Everyone on that ship seemed to be living their best life. There was no judgement, just people enjoying themselves in whatever way they wanted—whether it was a quiet dinner with new friends or dancing the night away.
But let’s address the elephant in the room: sea sickness. Yes, the ship did sway, and it was noticeable, especially at night. But here’s the thing—you actually get used to it. In fact, I kind of started to miss the swaying once I left the ship. I was convinced I was still rocking back and forth for three days after I got home! It’s a weird sensation, but by the end of the trip, it was almost comforting.
As for the people on board, it was a real mix. This wasn’t your stereotypical pensioners-only club. There were all sorts of people—young couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and yes, even the odd retiree living their best life. You could do as much or as little as you wanted. Some people spent their days lounging by the pool, while others were out exploring every port, or taking advantage of all the activities on board. It’s entirely up to you how you spend your time.
Now, let’s talk food. I had been bracing myself for the worst, imagining endless buffet lines with food that had been sitting out for hours. But wow, was I wrong. This cruise had some of the best food I’ve ever eaten, and it was all made to order. Every meal was fresh, flavourful, and more than a little Instagram-worthy. You won’t find any dodgy sausage rolls here.
Ultimate Guide for First-Time Cruisers
All You Can Eat: You can literally order EVERYTHING on the menu. Yes, the surf, the turf, and dessert(s). Live your buffet dreams!
Get the Balcony Room: Trust me, nothing beats sipping coffee with a sea breeze. Plus, insta-worthy sunsets!
Stay “Ship Time” Savvy: Ports might have different time zones—don’t get left behind!
Pack Snacks: Midnight cravings? Bring your favorite snacks for cabin munchies.
Meet the Captain: Yep, there’s often a fancy captain’s dinner—get dolled up and snap a pic!
No Seasickness Drama: Worried about getting seasick? Get motion-sickness bands or ginger chews, and stick to mid-ship rooms for a smoother ride. Plus, the ship’s stability tech makes it less of a concern.
Theme Nights = Costume Party: Cruises love theme nights—Hawaiian shirts or 80s gear? Pack a fun outfit and join the deck party. pack red for the scarlet night.
Excursion Pro Tips: Book excursions early but compare prices with local providers. Sometimes a private tour gets you the same experience at half the cost (and a local touch!).
Smart Luggage: Take a small carry-on with your essentials because your checked luggage might not arrive in your room for hours. Don’t get caught swimsuit-less!
Wi-Fi Wonder: The ship’s Wi-Fi is free, but the download speed can be slow, so load your fave playlists and shows in advance. You’re cruising, not binge-scrolling!
Get Competitive: From trivia challenges to pool volleyball—there are contests for everyone. Don’t forget to claim your free cruise swag for winning.
The Spa Life: Treat yourself! Cruise spas often offer discounts on port days, so book a relaxing treatment and sail into zen.
Laundry? Nope!: Pack lightly. You won’t need as many outfits as you think. Plus, on most ships, casual cruise-wear is all the rage.
Hydrate for Less: Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up at drink stations. It’s a budget-friendly hack to avoid pricey bottled water.
Cabin Crawl Fun: Some cruisers organise cabin crawls (like a pub crawl but from cabin to cabin). Join in or host your own for a fun, social experience.
Meet and Mingle: First night? Head to a meet-and-greet event. It’s a great way to make cruise buddies, especially for solo travelers.
Breakfast in Bed? Yes, Please: Take advantage of room service for a lazy morning or romantic breakfast in your cabin.
Pack for Adventure: Bring comfy shoes for exploring ports and water shoes if you plan on beach or waterfall hikes.
Join the Sail-Away Party: As your ship departs, hit the pool deck for a live DJ, cocktails, and some serious fun vibes.
Duty-Free Treats: Stock up on duty-free goodies like alcohol and perfumes—just remember the onboard store prices can be higher than at ports.
Dockside Dreams: In port towns, don’t be afraid to explore beyond the main tourist spots. Ask locals for hidden gems—quaint cafes, unique beaches, and secret sunset spots.
Bring Some Cash: Not every port accepts card payments, so having a few smaller bills handy can be a lifesaver for tipping or shopping in markets.
Dress Codes Are Chill: Forget the idea that cruises are ultra-formal all the time. Most nights, smart casual will do, unless it’s a specific formal event.
Download the Ship’s App: Many cruise lines have apps that keep you updated on activities, dining reservations, and even allow you to chat with other cruisers for free!
Stay Sun-Safe: Pack that SPF and a sunhat. You’ll be spending a lot of time outside soaking up those rays, but sunburns are not the kind of souvenir you want.
Solo Cruising Perks: If you're cruising solo, take advantage of singles’ meetups, and don’t be shy—cruise-goers are super friendly!
Budget for Tips: Gratuities are often added to your bill, but it’s nice to leave a little extra for your room steward or the bartender who nailed your favorite cocktail.
Late-Night Pizza: Most ships offer 24/7 food, including pizza. After a night of dancing, nothing hits better than a slice by the pool.
Photographer Finesse: Cruise photographers can be pricey, so take your own photos or ask a fellow passenger for a quick snap. You’ll be making so many memories, so keep your phone or camera handy.
The Crew Knows Best: Got questions? The crew are your best resource for hidden gems both onboard and at ports—don’t hesitate to ask!
And if you’re going to take my advice on one thing, let it be this: get the balcony room. Trust me, it’s worth it. There’s something magical about stepping out onto your own private space in the middle of the sea, swinging in your chair and just soaking it all in. Plus, if you know, you know—those pineapples are very real.
So, was I bored? Absolutely not. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. It’s like a grown-up version of Llangrannog, but with better food, more booze, and a lot more freedom. If you’re not sure if cruising is for you, I say give it a go. You might just discover a new side of yourself you didn’t know existed.
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