Cruises can be the perfect escape to explore the world and unwind in style, but your onboard stateroom comes with a few unique rules. Whether you have a balcony cabin or an inside stateroom, there are things you should absolutely avoid to ensure a smooth and safe journey. Here’s your guide to staying savvy on your next cruise.
1. Don’t Raid the Mini Bar Without Checking
It might be tempting to grab a drink from your in-cabin mini bar, especially if you have a beverage package. However, these items are often not included. Mini bar charges can add up quickly and become an unwelcome surprise at the end of your trip. To avoid accidental charges, you can even request that your cabin attendant remove the mini bar items for safekeeping.
2. No Smoking Inside Your Cabin
Cruise cabins are strictly non-smoking zones. Smoking indoors is not just about courtesy; it’s a safety hazard. Cruise lines typically offer designated smoking areas on the ship’s exterior, so stick to these locations. Lighting up in your cabin could lead to hefty fines or even being asked to leave the ship.
3. Skip the Balcony Cigarette Break
Many popular cruise lines, especially in North America, prohibit smoking on private balconies. This rule exists to prevent accidental fires and avoid smoke drifting into neighboring rooms. If you enjoy a cigarette, head to the designated smoking spots instead.
4. Avoid Damaging the Room Walls and Doors
Using adhesive hooks or putting up decorations might seem like a great way to personalize your cabin, but be cautious. Adhesive damage can lead to fines for repair. Use magnetic hooks instead, as they won’t leave a trace. Also, if you’re a fan of over-the-door organizers, make sure they won’t harm the door.
5. Resist Taking Cruise Room Items Home
It’s best to leave the luxurious cruise towels and bathrobes behind when you disembark. Cruise lines may charge you for any missing items like pool towels, binoculars, or umbrellas. That said, if you’re gifted a tote bag or slippers, they’re typically yours to keep.
6. Don’t Open Both Balcony and Cabin Doors Simultaneously
Opening your cabin door and balcony door at the same time can create a powerful wind tunnel. This not only risks items flying around but can also cause severe injury if a door slams shut. Safety tip: Always close one door before opening the other.
7. Never Sit or Lean on the Balcony Railings
Cruise ship balconies may seem inviting, but accidents can happen. Cruise lines strongly advise passengers against sitting or standing on railings, and this goes double if you’re traveling with kids. Set clear rules with children to keep everyone safe.
8. Be Kind to Your Cabin Attendant
Your cabin attendant plays a crucial role in ensuring your comfort, so it’s worth showing a bit of gratitude. They often clean your room at least once daily, making your cruise more enjoyable. Avoid leaving an overwhelming mess for them to tackle, as they might struggle to clean your cabin thoroughly if it’s in complete disarray.
9. Remember to Use Your “Do Not Disturb” and “Make Up Room” Signs
These signs are there to help cabin attendants know when to come in or stay out. If you’re resting or want privacy, make sure to display the “Do Not Disturb” sign. Conversely, the “Make Up Room” sign signals your cabin attendant that it’s okay to clean up, so your room is always tidy when you return.
10. Don’t Sneak in Prohibited Items
Leave items like irons, steamers, and extension cords at home. Cruise ships take fire safety extremely seriously, and these items are not allowed on board. If you’re concerned about wrinkles, look into wrinkle-release sprays, which are travel-friendly alternatives.
11. Extension Cords and Surge Protectors
If you’re planning to bring an extension cord on your cruise, double-check with your cruise line beforehand. Some cruises provide extension cords in your cabin along with distilled water, while others may restrict you from bringing your own. As for surge-protected power bars, these are prohibited on most cruise ships due to potential fire hazards. A safe alternative is a non-surge power strip or a USB power cube, especially ones with USB-C ports for versatility.
12. CBD Gummies: Strictly Off-Limits
While CBD gummies are becoming popular, they’re a big no-no on cruises. Due to federal regulations, bringing CBD products on board could have serious consequences. There was even a case where a passenger got kicked off a cruise and banned for life after a cabin attendant discovered CBD gummies. Avoid any potential legal issues and leave CBD items at home!
13. Secure Your Valuables
Keeping valuables such as jewelry, cash, passports, and even essential medications in your cabin’s safe is a smart move. This precaution can prevent loss or theft and ensure peace of mind during your trip.
14. Avoid Open Flames
Never light candles, incense, or any open flames in your cabin. This rule is strictly enforced for safety reasons, as cruise ships are highly regulated environments when it comes to fire hazards.
15. Cruise Bathroom Etiquette
Cruise ship bathrooms use a unique plumbing system, so be cautious with what you flush. Only use the provided cruise ship toilet paper; anything else, like flushable wipes or even personal toilet paper, can clog the system and create a mess for everyone onboard.
If you need a sharps container for disposal, simply ask your cabin attendant. And for an added touch, consider bringing a bathroom spray like Poo-Pourri—your cabin mates will thank you!
16. Respect Door Slamming Rules
Be mindful of cabin door noise, especially during late or early hours. Cruise cabin doors tend to be heavy, so keeping a hand on them can prevent unintentional slamming that might disturb your neighbors.
17. Be Courteous with Outdoor Lighting
If your cabin has a balcony, be sure to turn off the outdoor light at night to avoid disturbing nearby guests. Also, avoid loud music, yelling, or arguments that could disrupt other guests. Walls are thin, and cruise security can be called for noise issues.
18. Cruise Balcony Don’ts
While cruise ship balconies offer fantastic views, there are strict rules to follow. Never hang clothing or towels on the balcony railing as they could easily blow overboard. This is both a safety and environmental concern. Avoid drying clothes in the cabin sprinkler system as well, as this can accidentally trigger it. Most bathrooms include a retractable clothesline, or you can use magnetic hooks for added convenience.
19. Keep Kids Supervised
Leaving young children unattended in a cruise cabin or balcony is risky. There have been incidents where unattended children were found by cabin attendants and taken to guest services for safety. Avoid these situations by ensuring a family member is always present.
20. Leave Safety Equipment in Place
Life jackets and safety equipment should remain in their designated spots. Moving or hiding them can create confusion during emergencies and is prohibited.
21. Closing Blinds for Privacy
For ocean-view and balcony cabins, remember to close blinds, especially on port days. If you leave blinds open, nearby ships can see directly into your cabin.
22. Don’t Fish or Hang Clotheslines on the Balcony
As tempting as it might be, fishing or setting up clotheslines on your balcony is not permitted. These activities can lead to serious consequences for both safety and environmental reasons.
23. Final Day Essentials: Check Your Safe
One of the most common disembarkation mistakes is leaving valuables behind in the safe. Items like car keys, passports, and money are irreplaceable once you leave the ship, and reboarding is often prohibited. So, double-check your cabin before saying goodbye.
Final Cruise Tip: Gratuities Are Vital
On many cruise lines, tips are automatically included in your bill to cover staff who work tirelessly behind the scenes, including your cabin attendant. Removing these gratuities is optional, but keep in mind that it’s a significant part of their earnings. If you appreciate their efforts, consider tipping extra for exceptional service.
Cruise cabins are your cozy haven during a voyage, but following these guidelines ensures you’ll have a safe and enjoyable time. As always, the best travel memories come from being mindful and prepared. So, relax, enjoy your journey, and make the most of your cruise without a worry!
Tips for Enjoying Your Cruise Experience:
By following these tips, you’ll have a smooth sailing experience while keeping safety and courtesy top of mind. Are there any cabin rules or experiences you think should be added? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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