So, you’ve booked your first cruise or maybe you’re still considering it. Either way, how exciting! Cruising is a fantastic way to see multiple destinations in comfort; with everything you need just steps away. Whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, or with the whole whānau, a few insider tips can take your cruise experience to the next level.
What do I love most about cruising? You unpack once and let the adventures begin. Lounge by the adults only pool (if you have children – they can have their own special adventures in the well-equipped kids’ clubs), indulge in a spa treatment, learn to shake up the perfect martini, dive into a good book, enjoy live music, or catch a Broadway-style show - the choices are endless.
Having cruised extensively myself and helped hundreds of Kiwis plan their ideal voyages, I’ve put together some of my favourite tips to help you make the most of your time at sea.
🧳 Which One is Right for You?
- Choose an ocean cruise if you love variety, bigger ships with endless entertainment, and exotic destinations like the Caribbean, Alaska, or the Mediterranean.
- Choose a river cruise if you prefer a slower pace, cultural immersion, and scenic towns in regions like Europe, Asia, or the U.S.
- Expedition cruises are adventure-focused voyages that take you to remote, often untouched destinations—like Antarctica, the Arctic, the Kimberlie’s or the Galápagos—with expert guides, small ships, and a strong emphasis on wildlife, nature, and exploration.
- Small Ship – Ocean Cruising – perfect for couples who don’t want the hustle and bustle of a mega-liner style cruise ship. Less crowds, often child-free and small ships can get into many ports of call that larger ships are unable to get to. This means far more diverse itineraries and less tourists onshore!
🧳 What to Pack (and What to Leave at Home)
✔️ Cruise Packing Essentials:
- Power board (non-surge protected): Outlets are limited in cabins. Check with the cruise line to make sure these are allowed to be used on board. I found a 2 metre charging cord useful in case the plugs are a little further away than where you want them.
- Power Bank: Great for recharging while on shore excursions or when exploring the ship.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Perfect for shore excursions. Don’t forget your reef shoes if you are in a tropical destination.
- Smart casual outfits: Most cruises have a dress code for dinners – pack one or two slightly dressier outfits. Use a Mix and Match combo to give yourself more options.
- Swimwear & cover-ups: Even in cooler destinations, pools and spas are usually open.
- Reef friendly Sunscreen: Even if you are not planning to swim this is far better for the environment.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste. Some cruise lines no longer allow plastic bottles on board.
- Light jacket or cardigan: It can get breezy on deck, even in tropical climates.
- Medications & small first-aid kit: It's easier (and cheaper) than buying onboard.
- Small folding Clothes drying rack for the togs and smalls – or a roll up clothes line with hooks.
- Snorkel and mask if you are planning to hit the beach.
❌ Leave These at Home:
- Towels: Provided in your cabin and at the pool. You are also allowed to take these ashore
- Hairdryer: Most cabins have one.
- Iron or steamer: These are usually prohibited for safety reasons.
- Too many shoes: You’ll likely live in jandals, walking shoes, and one dressy pair.
🛳️ Tips to Make the Most of Your Cruise
- Get to know the ship early: Take time on day one to explore the layout, check out the activities, and make bookings for specialty dining or spa treatments. Remember to allow time to dine either before or after the evening shows so you aren’t rushing.
- Join daily activities: From trivia to yoga, dancing lessons to ping pong tournaments there’s something for everyone – and it’s a great way to meet fellow cruisers.
- Book shore excursions in advance: The best tours can sell out quickly. These are often available to book online prior to cruise departure. If you are not familiar with a destination it is best to book your excursion through the cruise line. Ships won’t wait if you are late and did not book with the cruise line.
- Download the cruise line app: Many ships use apps to share daily schedules, dining reservations, and onboard spending.
- Don’t overpack your itinerary: Leave time to relax and enjoy the onboard atmosphere. With so many onboard activities the ship itself can be a destination! From
- Take the stairs when possible: It’s an easy way to stay active and avoid the busy lifts!
👨👩👧👦 Cruising with Children
Cruising is a brilliant option for families! Many ships offer:
- Kids’ clubs with supervised activities by age group
- Family-friendly pools and water parks
- Movie nights, games, and scavenger hunts
Family tips:
- Choose early dining times for little ones
- Bring a few snacks and toys from home
- Take advantage of port days where kids can run around and explore onshore
- Some cruise lines offer a nanny or baby sitting service after kids clubs are closed
💑 Cruising as a Couple
For couples, cruising offers a mix of romance and adventure:
- Book a balcony cabin for those sunset moments at sea
- Try a specialty dining night or couples' spa treatment
- Enjoy quiet areas like adults-only pools or lounges
- Choose a small ship itinerary for a more port intensive itinerary
- Choose a Child-Free cruise for a more relaxed voyage
🌟 Cruising Solo
Solo travel is on the rise, and cruising is a safe, social way to see the world alone:
- Look for cruise lines that offer solo cabins or reduced single supplements
- Join group activities and hosted dinners to meet other solo travellers
- Don’t be afraid to join an escorted cruise – it’s a great way to have built-in company without being tied to others’ plans
- Book as early as possible to get the best solo deals – some cruises can be booked 2 – 3 years in advance.
💬 Final Tip: Book with an Expert
Planning your first cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming – and that's where I come in!
At Stellar Cruise and Travel Limited, I offer expert advice, personalised service, and access to the best cruise deals – from family-friendly holidays to luxury getaways, expedition voyages, solo travel, and group departures.
🧭 I’ve cruised extensively, I know the ships, the ports, and the insider tips – and I love helping people discover just how magical cruising can be.
📞 Ready to book your first (or next) cruise? Let's chat!
Melanie Peacock – Stellar Cruise and Travel Limited
📱 +64 (0)22 157 6390
📧 stellar@cruiseandtravel.co.nz
🌐 www.stellarcruiseandtravel.co.nz