Are you going on a cruise? But before you set sail, let’s make sure you don’t fall into the trap of common cruise mistakes that can ruin your sea days. These mistakes could range from missing out on cruise activities to spending too much at the art auction. Don’t make these cruise mistakes that can ruin your sea days!
Cruise Mistakes to Avoid on Sea Days
1. Overspending at Art Auctions
A mistake that some people make on sea days is they fall into the trap of overspending at art auctions. It’s easy to get carried away when you are on vacation mode- getting swept away in the excitment of bidding!
The art auction staff also have a way of making bidders feel like VIPs, which can further fuel their desire to purchase the art pieces. My dad experienced this first-hand during his cruise. He got swept up in the excitement of the art auction and ended up buying several pieces that he had no room for back home. Now, these pieces of art are just collecting dust in his attic!
2. Not Checking the Cruise Clock
A mistake that people make during cruises is they’re not aware of time changes. For example, my sister experienced this during her Bermuda cruise. On the first day, which was a sea day, they kept missing the cruise activities. They would show up at a movie trivia only to find out it had just ended. This happened a few times, they were so frustrated that they decided to complain to guest services.
However, that’s when they finally realized that the cruise ship was on Bermuda time, which is ahead by an hour from New York time! Thankfully, they discovered this early on and didn’t end up missing the ship because of this minor mistake!
3. Not Reading the Cruise Daily Planner
When you’re on a cruise, one of the most common mistakes people make during sea days is not taking the time to review the cruise daily planner. The cruise planners contain a wealth of information about onboard activities, entertainment, and dining options.
By neglecting to check the cruise planner, you are missing out on fun sea days experiences and even basic cruise announcements like time changes! You’re not just missing out on bingo, sometimes the cruise ship will offer one-of-a-kind experience like a behind-the-scenes tour of the kitchen for free! Even if you’re not a joiner, it’s always a good idea to take a few moments each morning to review the planner to plan your sea day.
4. Not Going to Afternoon Tea
If you’re on a cruise ship that offers afternoon tea, don’t miss it. It’s one of my favorite sea days activities- indulge in freshly brewed tea, scones, delicate sandwiches, and exquisite pastries. The best part is it’s completely free!
If I were to enjoy afternoon tea at a local restaurant near my home, it would cost me $45 per person. So, do yourself a favor and don’t miss out on this great value!
5. Not Checking Out the Cruise Gift Shop Sale
A mistake people make is not checking the cruise gift shop on sea days. Many cruise ships offer $10 bargain deals on sea days, where you can find hats, watches, t-shirts, and even costume jewelry for $10.
I always wait for the $10 sale to buy my souvenirs! It’s also a great opportunity to buy gifts for friends and family back home. So, make sure to keep an eye out for these bargain deals at the gift shop during sea days!
6. Not Joining Any Cruise Activities
A mistake that people make on sea days is not joining in on any cruise activities. Cruise lines have really improved their offerings of activities, it’s not just bingo and art auctions. On sea days, you can find activities like culinary demonstrations, galley tours, scavenger hunts, pamper parties at the spa, skincare events, wine tasting, movie trivia, and more.
7. Spending too Much at Casinos
One of the common mistakes people make when cruising is spending an excessive amount of time and money at the casino on sea days. They get addicted, spending the entire day at the casino, neglecting other fun and exciting activities offered on the ship.
This can ultimately ruin their cruise experience. It’s important to remember that while the casino can be fun, don’t let it consume your entire cruise vacation!
8. Not Booking Spa Treatments
A common mistake people make on sea days is they don’t book their spa treatment. They think they can just show up. But sea days are the busiest times for spa treatments, and they tend to get booked up quickly. And if you plan to use the thermal spa room, it’s best to buy the passes early on because they do limit the quantity that they sell.
That’s why you should plan ahead and book your spa treatment in advance so that you don’t miss out on the opportunity to pamper yourself and relax during sea days!
9. Not Booking Specialty Restaurants
If you’re planning to dine at specialty restaurants during a cruise’s sea days, you should make advance reservations to avoid disappointment. These restaurants tend to fill up quickly on sea days, which means that if you don’t book ahead, you may not be able to get a reservation at your preferred time.
10. Not Booking Fitness Classes
One common mistake that many people make while on a cruise is not booking fitness classes in advance, especially on sea days. Some fitness classes are in high demand on cruise ships, and if you don’t book your spot in advance, you may not be able to join in on the exercise session. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check the cruise planner and book your fitness classes ahead of time so you don’t miss out on it.
11. Not Going to the Pool Early
The pool will be the busiest place on the cruise ship on sea days. If you plan to spend your day lounging by the pool, it’s best to head there early. Those lounge chairs fill up fast, so the earlier you get there, the better your chances of getting one.
Another option is to consider buying a thermal spa pass and spend your day luxuriating in the spa. It’s a great way to escape the crowds, and you’ll have access to the jacuzzi and sauna as well. Just make sure you buy your thermal spa pass in advance, or they may run out!
12. Not Controlling Seasickness
One of the most common mistakes made by cruisers is failing to control seasickness during sea days. Sea days are usually when people get seasick. You need to plan ahead to avoid it.
For example, whenever I cruise out of New York, I know that on the first day, we will be sailing on the Atlantic Ocean, which can make me feel a little seasick. So, I take an anti-seasick medication in the morning and steer clear of activities that could trigger seasickness. As a result, I never have any issues with seasickness.
Knowing how to control it so it doesn’t even get triggered is the key. Once seasickness starts, it can spiral out of control, making it difficult to manage. You can read my article on how to avoid seasickness on a cruise.
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