Top 10 Things 'Not to Miss' on your next cruise!

Top 10 Things 'Not to Miss' on your next cruise! 

It's almost that time of year when we see some of the best prices on cruises.  In anticipation and celebration, I'm building adding another 'Top 10' list about cruising.  If you missed my first one, you can check it out here: 10 Reasons to sail away for your next vacation!

There is so much happening on a cruise, it is nearly impossible to be bored...you'd have to try really hard.  So as soon as you get that on board schedule in your hands, make a plan for where you want to be - or, don't make a plan at all and simply enjoy yourself.  But whatever you do, don't miss these 10 things:

1.  Enjoy a sunset!  With as much going on on board the ship, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle of going from one activity to the other.  Don't forget to take some time to step outside on the deck and enjoy a sunset.  It's not very often you get to enjoy it surrounded by ocean.

2.  Meet the Cruise Director/Activity directors.  They are often some of the kindest, funniest people you will meet, and it's literally their job to make sure you have a good time.  Get to know some of them through attending their activities and have fun!

3. Try all the things!  Do two entrees on the menu look amazing?  Order both!  Two desserts?  There's no shame in your game!  Remember you are on vacation and you should enjoy it to the fullest.

4.  Room Service - this is free on most cruise lines - but tipping your delivery host is appreciated.  Some things on the menu may not be included like specialty items, beverages, etc, but many things are included, and often around the clock.  Maybe you prefer to have a quiet night in your room?  You don't have to miss out on dinner, just order in. 

5.  Welcome night.  On the first night of the cruise, various places on the cruise will have a welcome/orientation night.  Go check out what the spa has to offer - you may win a special prize just by visiting!  Take your kids over to the kids club areas and tour them to check out where they will be having fun all week. 

6. A Date night/day.  Take advantage of the kids clubs on board - your kids will love them, and you will get some time with your spouse or on your own to enjoy some adult time.  Check out the adult areas on the ship like the spa or a lounge! 

7.  Nap time!  This is not just for kids anymore...take a little siesta in the afternoon without any guilt - you are on vacation!  Maybe it's a snooze by the pool, or you actually crawl in under the covers - either way, enjoy your time.

8. Trivia and Activities - if you love free swag, often cruises will offer prizes for their trivia games and other activities on board.  Participate in a game show and you might get a free drink of the day, or cruise tee shirt!

9.  Download the Cruise Line's On-board app for cruise line specific perks.  Disney's Navigator app allows you to message people on board, and view the cruise plans throughout your trip. 

10.  Visit the Future Cruise Sales Desk before you leave the ship.  Most cruise lines offer a discount or on board credit offer for people that book their next cruise before disembarking the ship.  If you booked your original cruise with a travel agent, you can keep your booking with that travel agent but still enjoy the perks of booking on board.  Just be sure to email your travel agent when you get home so they can keep an eye out for your booking info.