Cruises are relaxing all-inclusive vacations, but a few missteps can quickly turn your cruise into a nightmare. Here are some cruise mistakes to avoid so your vacation stays smooth and stress-free. Some of these are common mistakes that even seasoned cruisers make!
Not Having the Right Visa for Each Port
Before going on your cruise, check the visa requirements for every port you’ll be visiting. Just because you have a U.S. passport doesn’t mean you’re clear to enter every country. You can be denied boarding if you don’t have the proper visas. So make sure to confirm all entry requirements in advance. Some countries require visas that need to be applied for weeks in advance, so start researching early. Don’t assume that your cruise line will inform you—visas are often a personal responsibility.
Missing Time Zone Changes
As your cruise ship travels between time zones, the onboard time can change. Make sure you pay attention and read the ship’s daily planner for announcements about time changes, and check with the staff to make sure your watch matches the ship’s time. Missing a time change could cause you to miss the ship. Time zone mistakes are one of the reasons passengers get left behind!
Traveling Without a Passport
U.S. citizens can go on closed-loop cruises that depart and end in the same US port with just their driver’s license. But it’s safest to bring a passport in case of emergencies. If you miss the ship or have an emergency and have to fly home from another country, you’ll need a passport. It’s safest to have a passport ready in case you encounter unexpected issues.
Bringing a Real ID Instead of an Enhanced Driver’s License
Real IDs are not acceptable for international cruise travel; you will still need to show proof of US citizenship. While an Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) gives proof of identity and U.S. citizenship (only available in limited states). Don’t get them mixed up! If unsure, bringing a passport as a universal travel document is safest.
Not Knowing the Port Agent’s Contact Information
Each port has a designated port agent who assists passengers in emergencies. Make sure you have the port agent’s contact info. It’s usually found on the port map or the cruise daily planner. They’ll be your go-to for help if you run into trouble ashore. The port agent will help you rejoin the ship if you get left behind or help you in case of emergencies at the port.
Not Having Parental Consent for Traveling with Minors
If you’re bringing a child who isn’t your own, make sure you have a notarized consent form from their parents. Single parents should also confirm any required documentation if traveling with kids alone. Check with the cruise line on the required documents to avoid any issues at boarding. Legal documentation helps avoid delays, especially if traveling to international ports. It’s always smart to bring the child’s birth certificate as additional proof.
Cruising While Over 23 Weeks Pregnant
Most cruise lines have a policy restricting pregnant travelers from going on cruises if they are past 23 weeks in their pregnancy. Make sure to confirm these policies with your cruise line if you’re pregnant and planning to cruise. The restrictions are in place for safety reasons since medical care at sea may not be equipped to handle emergencies related to late-term pregnancy. You can get denied boarding the cruise ship if you’re over 23 weeks pregnant!
Not Checking the Minimum Age Requirement for Infants
If you plan to cruise with an infant, check the cruise line’s minimum age requirement before booking. Most cruise lines require infants to be at least six months old, and for certain itineraries, like transatlantic cruises or cruises with many days at sea, the age minimum can be 12 months. Know the rules. Otherwise, they will not let you board the cruise ship! Check out 7 Worst Mistakes You Can Make When Going on a Cruise with Kids
Forgetting to Put Your Phone on Airplane Mode
Cell phone charges can be very expensive on a cruise, even if you don’t make calls. Background data from apps can trigger data roaming fees, so remember to set your phone to airplane mode as soon as you’re on board the cruise ship. Taking this extra step could save you from coming home to an unexpectedly high phone bill. Check out 8 Important Things to Do to Keep Your Luggage Safe on a Cruise
Skipping Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can be a lifesaver if you face an emergency abroad. Many U.S. health plans don’t cover you outside the country, and Medicare is not accepted internationally. If you’re cruising during hurricane season, insurance can help cover delays. Beyond medical coverage, travel insurance can also protect you from trip cancellations, lost luggage, or missed connections. This small investment is worth the peace of mind. Check out 11 Mistakes People Make When Cruising During Hurricane Season
Ignoring the All Aboard Time
Cruise ships are strict about departure times. To avoid being left behind, take note of the “all aboard” time before you leave the ship. Take a photo of the all-aboard time sign posted at the gangway and set an alarm to remind yourself. The ship will not wait for you even if you’re just a few minutes late. Plan to get back on the ship at least an hour early to give yourself room for unforeseen delays. Check out 7 Cruise Mistakes That Will Leave You Stranded at the Cruise Port
Flying in on Embarkation Day
Arriving on a flight on the same day as your cruise departure is very risky. Delays from weather, technical issues, or traffic could cause you to miss the ship. It’s safest to arrive a day early to allow for any travel delays. This also gives you time to explore the port city, enjoy a relaxing evening, and start your vacation without the mad rush. Remember, missing the cruise is usually not covered by travel insurance if you choose to fly in the same day. Check out 13 Important Things to do ASAP on the First Day of Your Cruise
Not Checking Travel Advisories
Don’t assume that every cruise port is safe. Even popular cruise ports can have travel advisories due to crime. Check the U.S. Department of State’s advisories before deciding whether to venture out on your own, stick with cruise shore excursions, or stay onboard. Staying informed helps you make safer decisions. The last thing you’d want is to be wandering around a port and end up falling victim to crime! Check out 11 Anti-Theft Cruise Tips that Every Cruiser Needs to Know
Using an Expired Passport
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your cruise. Cruise lines won’t let you board if your passport is expired or close to expiring. Also, keep an eye on children’s passport expiration dates since they are only valid for five years. Renewing a passport can take several months, so check your passport’s expiration date the moment you book your cruise! Check out The Worst Months to Go on a Cruise
Forgetting Prescription Medications
One common mistake people make is forgetting to bring their prescription medication! Or else, they bring it but pack it in their checked luggage, which is risky because it can get lost. Always keep your prescription medication in your carry-on luggage or your purse. And bring extra in case of delays—pack an extra week’s supply to be safe. Remember, many medications are not readily available internationally! Check out 25 Things People Forget to Pack for a Cruise