I've been on nearly 30 cruises. Here are 16 big mistakes passengers make.

Jordana ComiterFeb 4, 2024, 18:15 IST

I've been vacationing on cruise ships since I was a baby. Jordana Comiter

I've been going on cruises since I was a baby, and nearly 30 trips later, I know the top mistakes.
Some people don't realize that even in different time zones, cruises may opt to stay on "ship time."

My parents brought me on my first cruise when I was still rocking pacifiers and diapers.

Nearly 30 trips around the Caribbean Sea later, there are plenty of mistakes I've seen fellow passengers (and my family) make.

It's easy to lose track of time zones.

Cruise ships sometimes operate on their own time zones for consistency. Jordana Comiter

Booking a "surprise" cabin is a gamble.

It may be easier to let the cruise pick your room, but there are some less-than-ideal locations. Jordana Comiter

Overpacking makes everything more arduous.

I usually pack a capsule wardrobe for cruises. Jordana Comiter

Not researching the cruise line can lead to disappointment.

Some cruise lines attract younger, rowdier crowds. Jordana Comiter

You don't want your things to end up on the "table of shame."

Don't bring prohibited items on a cruise. Jordana Comiter

Not checking in online may waste your time.

You can save yourself some hassle on the day of the cruise by checking in online. Jordana Comiter

Don't try to drink any alcohol you buy from a port city on the boat.

You usually have to check your alcoholic purchases when you reboard the ship. Lea Rae/Shutterstock

Underestimating the sun is a recipe for disaster.

When you're in the middle of the ocean all day, the sun can be especially strong. Jordana Comiter

Flying in on the day of the cruise is a rookie mistake.

You can't control delays or flight cancellations. Jordana Comiter

Going to the pool without a plan may leave you seatless.

The pool deck can get really crowded on a cruise. Jordana Comiter

You might be wasting money on Wi-Fi.

Think about what you're going to use the Wi-Fi for before purchasing. Jordana Comiter

Not reviewing your final bill can cost you.

Always take the time to go through your bill to check for inaccuracies. Jordana Comiter

If you go in with an "all-inclusive" mentality, you'll probably get sticker shock.

The drinks in the cabins are shockingly expensive. Jordana Comiter

Don't expect there to be last-minute open spots for nighttime entertainment.

It's best to plan ahead for shows, even when they're free to attend. Jordana Comiter

Leaving something behind is a hassle.

Do a couple of checks before you leave the boat.Jordana Comiter

Whatever you do, make sure you have your passport.

Make sure you find a safe and secure place to pack your passport.Jordana Comiter

I went on my first solo cruise to the Caribbean and worried about getting bored on the ship. I ended up having more fun than expected.

Cookies on the Business Insider India website