The name is "22 Cruise Secrets and Tips Compiled by Cruzely.com" and it's all about revealing some insider information for an amazing cruise experience. From tips on getting freebies in the casino to avoiding getting locked out of your room, this article covers it all. These secrets and tips apply to all cruise lines, so no matter which one you're sailing with, you'll find valuable information here. The article also recommends checking out more cruise tips on Cruzely.com for further guidance. Discover the truth about cruise sales, learn about ordering multiples of appetizers and entrees in the dining room, and explore the hidden wonders of cruise ship cameras. You'll also find advice on taking advantage of cheaper prices on ship activities when the ship is in port, the cost-saving benefits of choosing older ships, and the importance of carrying your room key card at all times. Dive into these cruise secrets and tips that you'll never forget!
In "22 Cruise Secrets You'll NEVER Forget" by Cruzely.com, you'll uncover a treasure trove of valuable cruise secrets and tips. Find out the truth about cruise sales, why some ships skip the 13th deck, and how to score freebies in the casino. Learn about the importance of being a member of AARP for discounts, the mysterious control of room thermostats on older ships, and the suggestion to bring air freshener to combat small cabin smells. Discover the secret of easily finding the direction in cabin hallways, the perks and classes offered at cruise ship casinos, and the money-saving benefits of purchasing drink or Wi-Fi packages in advance. Plus, gain insights into the world of cruise ship symbols, the rates and statistics of incidents on cruises, and the potential for incorrect charges on your onboard spending account. If you want to enhance your cruising experience and become an expert on all things cruise-related, this article is a must-read!
This image is property of i.ytimg.com.
Cruise Sales and Pricing Secrets
Understanding Constant Cruise Line Sales
When it comes to booking a cruise, you may have noticed that cruise lines are always advertising sales. These sales can seem tempting, promising huge discounts and exclusive offers. However, it's important to understand that cruise line sales are a constant occurrence. This means that there is always a sale running, and while the sales may be tweaked here and there, they often result in the same price regardless of the specific sale. Cruise lines adjust their pricing strategies to fill cabins by lowering costs on certain trips instead of offering big discounts across the board. So, instead of waiting for a significant sale, it's best to book when you find a price that you like.
Prices Are Often the Same Regardless of the Sale
Continuing from the previous point, it is essential to know that the prices of cruises are often the same regardless of the sale. Cruise lines seldom change the overall price of a cruise, even during a sale. Instead, they may adjust the onboard credits or offers, but the base fare will remain consistent. This means that if you find a price that you are comfortable with, there's no need to wait for a sale because it's unlikely to make a significant difference in the cost.
Saving Money by Buying Packages in Advance
Many cruise lines offer various packages, such as drink packages or Wi-Fi packages, that can enhance your experience onboard. These packages often come at an additional cost, but you can save money by purchasing them in advance. Cruise lines frequently offer discounts on these packages if you pre-purchase them before your cruise. So, if you know you will be interested in these amenities, it's worth checking out the pre-cruise offers and taking advantage of the savings.
Dining Tips and Tricks
Ordering Multiples of Appetizers and Entrees
When dining in the main dining room on a cruise ship, it's essential to know that you can order multiples of appetizers and entrees. If you're having trouble deciding between two appetizers or can't resist trying more than one entrée, go ahead and order them both. While there might be an additional charge for extra entrées beyond two, in most cases, you can indulge in as much food as you'd like without any added cost. So, feel free to explore the menu and order to your heart's content.
Tips for Dealing with Small Cabin Smells
One of the common challenges of staying in a cruise ship cabin is dealing with small cabin smells. With limited space, it's not uncommon for odors to linger. To combat this, it's a good idea to bring air freshener with you on your cruise. A few sprays can go a long way in freshening up your cabin. Additionally, you can also take advantage of less-used public restrooms on the ship. These bathrooms tend to get less foot traffic and can provide a pleasant alternative when you need it.
Safety and Security Tips
Areas of the Ship Passengers Don't Have Access To
While passengers have access to most areas of a cruise ship, there are certain areas that are off-limits. These areas include crew quarters, the galley (where everything is cooked), behind the scenes at the theater, and even the bridge. These parts of the ship are reserved for the crew and are not open to passengers. However, some cruise lines offer tours that allow passengers to explore these restricted areas, giving them a glimpse into the inner workings of the ship.
Always Carry Your Room Key Card
Your room key card is the most important item you'll carry around the ship. It not only grants you access to your cabin but also serves as your credit card for onboard purchases. It's crucial to always carry your room key card with you when leaving and returning to the ship in port. Forgetting your key card can be a hassle, as you'll need to visit guest services to get back into your room. To avoid this inconvenience, a helpful trick is to take off your shoes as you enter the cabin and place your room key card on top of them. This way, you're unlikely to leave without your key card since you wouldn't go far without your shoes.
Money and Onboard Spending
Save 10% on Cruises with AARP Membership
If you're looking to save money on cruises, consider becoming a member of AARP. AARP membership, available to anyone regardless of age, offers numerous benefits, including the ability to buy gift cards to major cruise lines at a 10% discount. This means you can purchase a $500 gift card for just $450 or a $100 gift card for $90, saving you a significant amount on your cruise fare. To maximize your savings, consider using a credit card that offers cashback on purchases when you buy these discounted gift cards.
Tips for Managing Onboard Spending Account
When you board a cruise ship, you'll typically set up an onboard spending account. This account allows you to charge any purchases made onboard to your cruise ship account, which will be settled at the end of your cruise. To manage your spending account effectively, make use of the cruise line's app or other digital platforms that allow you to check the balance and monitor your expenses. It's especially important to stay vigilant and regularly review your account, as incorrect charges can sometimes occur. By checking your account regularly, you can identify any discrepancies and have them resolved promptly.
Ship Amenities and Tips
Exploring the Thermostat Control on Older Ships
If you're sailing on an older cruise ship, you may notice that the thermostat control in your cabin doesn't have much effect on the temperature. Unlike newer ships where you can hear and feel the air conditioning kick on or off when you adjust the thermostat, older ships often have a centralized control system. This means that the air conditioning is controlled at one point all over the ship, and individual adjustments in your cabin may not make a significant difference. While it may vary from ship to ship, it's best to set your expectations accordingly and be prepared for the possibility that you may not have full control over the temperature in your cabin.
Using Shoe Organizers for Extra Storage
One of the challenges of cruise ship cabins is limited storage space. To maximize the available space and keep your cabin organized, consider packing a shoe organizer. This simple item can be hung over the back of a door or on a wall and provides additional storage pockets for shoes, toiletries, electronics, and other small items. Using a shoe organizer can help keep your cabin tidy and provide convenient access to everyday essentials.
Navigating the Ship
Understanding Cabin Hallway Clues
Navigating a cruise ship can sometimes be confusing, especially when it comes to finding your cabin. However, cruise lines often provide helpful clues in the cabin hallways to indicate cabin locations. For example, some cruise lines, like NCL, use fish designs to help you remember which direction to go in. Others, such as Royal Caribbean, use unique markers or artwork to distinguish sections. Paying attention to these clues can make finding your cabin a breeze and save you from getting turned around in the maze-like corridors.
Superstitions about the 13th Deck
Superstitions have always played a role in maritime history, and the cruise industry is no exception. One interesting superstition that some cruise lines adhere to is the omission of the 13th deck. In many cultures, the number 13 is considered unlucky, and cruise lines often skip labeling the 13th deck due to this superstition. Instead, they would label the deck as 12A or another number to avoid any negative connotations. While this superstition may not affect your cruise experience directly, it can be an intriguing fact to share with your fellow passengers onboard.
Entertainment and Activities
Perks and Free Classes in the Casino
If you enjoy spending time in the casino onboard a cruise ship, you'll be pleased to know that there are often perks and free classes available. Casinos on cruise ships often offer loyalty programs that provide various benefits, such as free play, discounted or complimentary drinks, and even invitations to exclusive events. Additionally, the casino staff may offer free classes to teach you how to play specific games and improve your skills. Taking advantage of these perks and classes can enhance your casino experience and potentially increase your chances of winning.
Taking Advantage of Cheaper Ship Activities in Port
When a cruise ship is docked in a port of call, many passengers choose to disembark and explore the destination. However, this can also be an opportunity to take advantage of cheaper prices on ship activities. While most people are off the ship, some cruise lines offer special deals on activities such as spa treatments or attractions that allow you to enjoy the ship at a discounted price. By scheduling these activities for the times when the ship is in port, you can save money and still have plenty of time to explore the destination.
Cruise Industry Challenges
Threats Faced by Cruise Lines
Like any industry, the cruise industry faces various challenges. Some of the common threats that cruise lines encounter include anti-tourism sentiments from local communities, competition from other vacation options, and concerns related to environmental impact and emissions. Cruise lines continually strive to address these challenges and implement sustainable practices to minimize their environmental footprint. As cruise passengers, being aware of these challenges can help us make informed choices and support cruise lines that prioritize sustainability and responsible tourism.
Environmental Concerns and Emissions
Cruise ships are often criticized for their environmental impact, particularly regarding emissions. However, the cruise industry has made significant strides in recent years to reduce its environmental footprint. Many cruise lines have implemented measures to improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and explore alternative fuel options. Additionally, cruise lines are investing in technologies and practices to ensure proper waste management and protect marine ecosystems. As passengers, we can contribute to these sustainability efforts by being conscious of our own environmental impact during our cruise and supporting cruise lines that prioritize sustainability.
Safety and Incidents on Cruise Ships
Understanding Cruise Ship Crime Statistics
Safety is a top priority for cruise lines, and they work diligently to ensure the well-being of their passengers and crew. While no means of transportation is entirely free of risk, it's important to note that the occurrence of crime incidents on cruise ships is relatively low. Cruise lines are required to report crime statistics, and these reports are made public. By reviewing these statistics, potential cruise passengers can gain a better understanding of the safety measures in place and make informed decisions about their travel plans.
Maintaining Awareness on Board
While safety is a priority on cruise ships, it's always important for passengers to maintain awareness of their surroundings. This includes taking precautions such as locking your cabin door when inside, using the peephole before opening the door, and utilizing the safe in your cabin for valuable belongings. It's also essential to familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures and follow the instructions provided by the crew during safety drills. By remaining vigilant and aware, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise experience.
Additional Resources
Check Out Cruzely.com for More Cruise Tips
If you're interested in learning more cruise tips and secrets, be sure to check out Cruzely.com. They offer a wealth of information and articles covering a wide range of topics related to cruising. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or an experienced traveler, Cruzely.com is a valuable resource for all things cruise-related.
Visit Cruise1.com for More Information on Cruising
For those looking for more comprehensive information on cruising, Cruise1.com is an excellent resource to explore. They provide a wealth of information, including destination guides, cruise line comparisons, and tips for planning your cruise vacation. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned cruiser, Cruise1.com offers valuable insights to help you make the most of your cruising experience.
In conclusion, understanding cruise sales and pricing, optimizing your dining experience, prioritizing safety and security, and managing your onboard spending are all essential factors to consider when planning a cruise. Additionally, being aware of ship amenities, navigating the ship effectively, taking advantage of entertainment and activities, and staying informed about industry challenges and safety incidents can enhance your overall cruise experience. By utilizing the tips and information provided in this article, you'll be well-prepared to embark on a memorable and enjoyable cruise vacation.
