I've been on nearly 30 cruises. Here are 12 things I wish I'd known sooner.

Jordana ComiterJan 27, 2024, 21:03 IST

I've been going on cruises my whole life. Jordana Comiter

I've been going on cruises since I was a baby, and now I've vacationed on nearly 30 ships.
The best time to be on the boat is when everyone else is on the island.

Growing up a short drive from a port, my family's favorite vacation has always been cruises. Since my first one as a baby, I've set sail nearly 30 times.

There are a lot of time and money-saving tips I've learned over the years.

Here are 12 things I wish I'd known sooner.

Embarkation is the best time to go to the spa.

The spa is usually a little less busy on the first day. Jordana Comiter

Even the Caribbean has bad weather some days.

It's not always going to be sunny and warm on a cruise. Jordana Comiter

You can bring some of your own alcohol on board.

Different cruise lines have their own rules, but many allow legal adults to bring a sealed bottle of wine.Joni Hanebutt/Shutterstock

I've learned ways to avoid the lunch crowd at the buffet.

You can usually eat in the dining room for lunch. Jordana Comiter

There are a few items I've added to my packing list over the years.

Towel clips are an absolute must for cruises. Jordana Comiter

Port days are actually the best boat days.

The boat is usually less crowded when people are out exploring. Jordana Comiter

Don’t be afraid to ask for things.

Cabin stewards are incredibly helpful throughout the cruise. Jordana Comiter

Read the fine print on the alcohol packages.

There are different levels to the alcohol packages on a cruise ship.Jordana Comiter

The game-show stakes are … low.

There are usually opportunities to play game shows on cruises. Jordana Comiter

I've always found the beach excursions to be a waste of money.

There are usually some all-inclusive beach packages available on the ship. Jordana Comiter

There are ways to skip the disembarkation line.

Getting off the boat can be a tedious and slow process. Jordana Comiter

If you plan ahead, there are some big ways to save on your next cruise.

Booking your next cruise on the ship comes with certain deals and perks. Jordana Comiter

I take everyone who visits Paris for the first time to a free rooftop that has better views than the Eiffel Tower

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