The Ultimate Cruise Checklist: Water You Forgetting?

Is there a better way to see the world than on a cruise ship? Leave the dirty hostels and cramped cross-country buses to Interrailing students, and enjoy both life on the high seas and the experience of a world-class hotel, with a new locale to explore each day.

What you should pack depends on where you’re cruising, how long you’ll be aboard, and what you plan to do while you’re there: sightseeing, shopping, on- or offshore activities, whatever takes your fancy. Most cabins will have a low-wattage hair dryer, towels and toiletries. But there are a few essentials that every passenger should consider for cruise travel. Insurance is of course advisable, but here are a few things you may not have considered…

Seasickness Medication

The first is a no-brainer. If you’ve ever been aboard a vessel on the open ocean, you’ll know that conditions can change in an instant. From prescription drugs to Sea-Band Wristbands, or green apples and ginger tea (often available via on-board room service), speak to your doctor for a full list of options suitable for cruise travel – insuranceagainst spending your whole trip in the medical centre.

A Smaller Bag for Essentials

When you board, you’ll often reach your room before your bags will. For the few hours while they’re loaded aboard, take a carry-on bag for sunscreen, swimwear, hat and sunglasses – maybe a book or camera, or warm clothing if you’re travelling somewhere cold. Your passport and travel documents may be useful too.

Bring your Own Drinks

Most operators are happy for you to take a bottle or two aboard, so if there’s something nice you’ve been saving, what better time than sunset on the high seas? It’s also worth carrying a bottle opener and a stopper.

A Jacket

Even if you’re in the Caribbean, night can fall fast and get cold on open water. Bring a light jacket for use on deck. If in doubt, check with your operator.

Small Speakers

Picture the scene: relaxing on your balcony with the tipple from Tip #3, watching the sunset with a loved one. What would make it better? Some of your favourite music while you take it all in.

Ear Plugs

The other side of this last tip is that other passengers may have the same idea. While you’ll most likely get restful sleep lulled by the waves, just in case you’re beside an onboard nightclub or the engine room, ear plugs can help.

Formal Wear

Part of the traditional pageantry of cruising is dressing up for dinner and drinks. Most gents wear business suits rather than tuxedos these days, and formal dining is of course optional if you’d prefer to avoid the fuss with room service or a buffet. But I think it’s part of the fun.

Last but Not Least: Cruise Travel Insurance

It’s best to have peace of mind before you set sail in case of mishaps with luggage, illness or injury, so investing in a policy which covers these eventualities is a wise move. Cruise travel insurancecan put you at ease to fully enjoy your trip and make the most of one of the great experiences any traveller can have.

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Patrick Chong is the Managing Director of InsureMore, an award-winning team of specialists in global single trip, family, annual and cruise travel insurance policies. Besides offering great deals on travel insurance, Patrick also collects and shares the best free travel competitions to help his clients get the most out of their holidays.