Embarking on a cruise is an exhilarating experience. The sun-kissed decks, the endless buffet of delectable food, and the mesmerizing views of the open sea create memories that last a lifetime. However, as your voyage comes to an end, there are crucial tasks to ensure a smooth departure. Here are 9 important things to do before you leave the cruise ship.
1. Fully Enjoy the Ship
Don’t leave the ship without trying out anything and everything available on the ship that you are remotely interested in. This can be a challenge. But, with careful planning starting before you even board the ship, you can totally do it all!
Start exploring the ship before you even leave home. Then check it out in person on day one. Use your cruise app to schedule spa, dining, and other experiences early to ensure they don’t fill up. So, whether your thing is the water slides, cooking classes, Bingo, or just hanging at the pool, make sure you do it all!
2. Visit the Next Cruise Office
Cruise lines offer guests amazing deals while they are onboard the ship. Make sure you visit the Next Cruise Office to grab yours! Not only are these deals amazing, but you will find the office is a great source of inspiration for your next journey.
Concerned that booking through Next Cruise will sever your relationship with your Travel Agent? Don’t be. Most cruise lines automatically credit the cruise to your TA. If not, they offer an opportunity to transfer the cruise to the TA when you get home. Either way you can still enjoy the added value a TA brings to your booking and the amazing discount offered by the Next Cruise Office.
3. Review Disembarkation Procedures
The cruise staff will communicate disembarkation procedures a day or two before the end of your cruise. Familiarize yourself with the process outlined by the cruise staff. Understand the timing, location, and any specific instructions provided before you prepare to leave your cruise.
Many cruises conduct disembarkation meetings to explain essential information about the process. Attend these meetings to address any questions you may have.
4. Check Your Travel Itinerary
Review your post-cruise plans and ensure you have transportation arrangements from the port to your next destination. Make sure you have all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and identification cards, readily accessible. Keep them secure in your carry-on luggage for easy access during disembarkation.
5. Pack Smart
Organize your belongings and pack them efficiently. Ensure that your luggage meets the weight and size restrictions specified by your air carrier. Don’t just toss it all in the suitcase! It doesn’t have to be as tidy as when you packed originally, but you will regret it when you get home if you just throw it in. Place items that need to be laundered together so you can just throw them in the washer when you get home. Then neatly arrange other items to make unpacking easy.
Don’t forget to retrieve any valuables or important documents stored in the safe. Double check drawers, closets, and the bathroom to ensure nothing is left behind. Make sure any purchases you made onboard or in port. And pick up photos you purchased!
6. Return Borrowed Items
Return any borrowed books from the onboard library. If you participated in any organized activities that required equipment, return them before leaving the ship. Also, don’t forget to return any rented items such as snorkeling gear, beach towels, or other items before you leave the cruise ship. Leave cork screws and other stateroom amenities behind or expect to be charged for them.
7. Settle Your Bill
Make sure all your onboard expenses are settled before you leave the ship. Check your account statement to review any additional charges and clear them to avoid surprises.
Most cruise lines include gratuity charges in your onboard account. If this is the case, verify that the gratuity has been applied correctly. You can still give particularly helpful crew members a little something extra if you wish, but don’t be a scrouge and stiff the staff. They work really hard for very low wages.
Most importantly, don’t wait till the last night to clear up any billing issues. There will be a long line that last evening so address any concerns early.
8. Save Something Special For The Last Night
While it can be nice to keep the last night simple, it can also be really nice to save something special for then. Maybe save a specialty dining experience for that evening. Or dance the night away. It is much easier to face that last day if you have something special planned for the final evening.
9. Say Farewell to Crew Members
Take a moment to express your gratitude to the hardworking crew members who made your cruise experience memorable. A simple thank you goes a long way in acknowledging their efforts.
Most cruise lines have surveys and comment card you can do to express your gratitude. Not only do these gestures mean a lot to staff on a personal level, they are also directly tied to performance reviews, salaries, and bonuses.
Are You Ever Really Ready To Leave Your Cruise Ship?
No matter how long a cruise, the time to leave the ship seems to come all too soon. Following these essential steps will help ensure a seamless transition and allow you to cherish the wonderful memories of your voyage for years to come.
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Bon Voyage!
