Sea days are a great opportunity to unwind and recharge after those busy port days! They’re the perfect chance to take full advantage of all the amenities and fun onboard activities on the cruise ship. However, there are certain things you should avoid doing on your cruise sea day if you want to fully enjoy your vacation.
Don’t Ignore the Cruise Planner
Make sure to check out the cruise planner, especially on sea days. There are so many free onboard activities, from trivia game shows to learn-to-dance classes—don’t miss out.
Don’t Skip the Port Talk
Many cruise ships give free port talks on sea days. These are useful seminars led by experts or the cruise shore excursion staff. They will give useful tips and advice about the upcoming port of call, such as the best attractions to visit at the port, where to eat, where to shop, and helpful transportation advice. If it’s your first time visiting a port, don’t miss out on the talk because you will learn a lot about the port.
Don’t Miss the Gift Shop Sale
Many cruise gift shops hold special sale days during sea days, often featuring incredible blowout deals. For example, it’s common to find souvenirs like T-shirts for just $10 on sea days! Be sure to stop by the gift shop on sea days to take advantage of their sale!
Don’t Overschedule
There’s plenty to enjoy on a cruise during sea days, with a long list of activities available in the cruise planner. It’s easy to fill up your schedule but try to resist that temptation! Remember to take some time to relax. Give yourself a break and avoid overscheduling. After all, you are on vacation!
Don’t Go to the Main Pool During Busy Times
The main cruise pool is one of the busiest places on the cruise ship on sea days. It will be hard to find a lounge chair, and the pool and hot tubs will be crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, don’t go to the main pool during the busiest times, which is typically late morning through the afternoon. Instead, go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when everyone is getting ready for dinner. Or you should skip the main pool and find a less busy pool on the cruise ship.
Don’t Stay in Your Cruise Cabin All Day
Don’t stay in your cruise cabin all day during sea days; you’ll miss out on fun onboard activities. Make it a point to explore and participate in some cruise activities. Plus, if you only do room service, you’ll miss out on the amazing food at the buffet and main dining room.
Don’t Overeat at the Buffet
During your sea day, try not to overeat at the buffet in the morning. You might feel sick and miserable for the rest of the day. Overindulging on unlimited food is tempting, but make sure you pace yourself and enjoy what you eat throughout the day.
Don’t Drink Too Much
Like overeating, it’s best to enjoy your drinks in moderation on sea day! Even if you have that cruise beverage package, remember to pace yourself. Getting drunk on sea day will make you feel awful and ruin your sea day.
Don’t Forget the Sunblock
If you plan to spend your sea day poolside, remember to apply and reapply sunblock throughout the day. Even if it’s a bit cloudy, it’s a good idea to still use sunblock. Getting sunburned during your cruise is no fun, and it can easily ruin your cruise vacation.
Don’t Forget to Make Spa Reservations
Book your reservations in advance if you plan to go to the spa during your sea day. Sea days are the busiest at the cruise spa, and walk-ins are usually not an option since most guests have already scheduled appointments. If you don’t book your spa appointment ahead of time, you will end up with the worst times. Take care of this early, or else you will regret it.
Don’t Miss Dinner in the Main Dining Room
Sea days are when the main dining room has its special menus. It’s when they have formal nights, Captain’s dinners, Gala dinners, and Farewell dinners. Be sure to attend these dinners in the main dining room because that is when they serve the best food—lobster, steak, and baked Alaska. You definitely won’t want to miss out! Check out 9 Cruise Main Dining Room Mistakes You’ll Regret Making
Don’t Miss the Art Auction
If you want free champagne, go to the art auction. Art auctions usually take place on sea days, and the staff will give out free champagne to all attendees. The best part is that you are not obligated to buy art, and you don’t even have to stay the entire time! Check out 10 Ways to Score Free Champagne at a Cruise (How to Get Free Drinks!)
Don’t Go to the Buffet When It’s Busy
The cruise buffet is busiest on sea days. If you want a more relaxing experience, go to the main dining room for meals. Or, if you prefer the buffet, make sure you go when it’s not busy—late breakfast and late lunch. Check out 10 Food I’ll Never Eat at a Cruise Buffet
Don’t Forget the Anti-Seasick Medication
Sea days are when there is the most movement on a cruise ship, especially when the waters are choppy. If you’re prone to seasickness, taking your anti-seasickness medication on sea days is important so you’ll feel comfortable. Check out Cruise without Seasickness: Genius Tricks You Need to Know
Don’t Forget to Find the Quiet Places
Don’t just hang out at the buffet, atrium, or pool during sea days—these are the busiest places on the cruise ship. There are so many quiet places on the ship where you can go to relax. Look for a lounge or go to the observatory. These places are usually not crowded on sea days and are great places to relax and read a book. Check out 11 Relaxing Things to Do on a Cruise Ship During Sea Days