|
WHAT TO PACK WHEN YOU CRUISE
| Camera. Sunscreen. Swimsuit. Okay, now that we've got the basics out of the way, here are a few must-have cruise items that'll help make your vacation more comfortable, enjoyable and memorable. |
On the first day...
For the first day of your cruise, pack a small carry-on bag with your travel documents, a change of clothes, bathing suit, workout clothes, and any medications you may need. That way you don't have to wait for your checked bags to arrive in your stateroom.
Onboard attire...
Shorts, t-shirts, slacks, trousers, casual skirts, blouses and sundresses are all perfect during the day, whether indoors or out.
For lounging by the pool, pack two bathing suits (an extra suit in case the other is wet) and a pair of casual shoes (e.g., flip-flops, sandals, sneakers). You'll also need some casual shorts and a couple of t-shirts or a cover-up for getting to and from the pool areas.
If you're planning to visit our onboard fitness center, be sure to bring extra shorts, t-shirts and socks that you won't mind working out in - plus a pair of tennis or running shoes/sneakers.
Dinner attire...
Meals in the main dining room follow this schedule:
 |
3-, 4- and 5-night cruises: one formal night; the remainder of nights are casual |
|
6-, 7- and 9-night cruises: two formal nights, one smart casual and the remainder of nights casual |
|
10- to 13-night cruises: two formal nights, two smart casual and the remainder of nights casual |
|
14+-night cruises: three formal nights, four smart casual and the remainder of nights casual |
For formal nights you'll need cocktail dresses for women, suits and ties - or tuxedos - for men. And for the smart casual nights bring dresses or pantsuit for women, jackets for men.
Remember, shorts, T-shirts, and bathing suits are not considered appropriate attire in the dining rooms at dinner. Casual dress dining is available nightly in the Windjammer Cafe. And be aware you'll also need smart casual attire for some of our specialty restaurants.
We also offer tuxedo rentals for formal dinners and special occasions.
Onshore attire...
You'll need comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
If you are cruising to Northern Europe or Alaska, remember that nights on deck can be cool. Bring sweaters, jackets and long pants. And if you'll be touring any museums, cathedrals or churches, it's always wise to dress conservatively. You may also want to bring a raincoat, hiking shoes and a travel umbrella. And don't forget your swimsuit - it may be cool outside but it's always warm in our Solarium.
For fun... There are four very important types of books you'll want to consider packing:
|
Travel guides - to help you explore new destinations |
|
Poolside pleasures - nothing beats a great read in the sun |
|
Journal - keep an account of your adventure for sharing and reminiscing |
|
Address book - send your friends a postcard to make them jealous |
Binoculars are another often forgotten, yet indispensable travel item. Be sure to pack a pair for magnified excitement onboard and onshore.
Save space...
Be sure to leave some room in your luggage for all those souvenirs and mementos. Some space-saving ideas include:
|
Bring shirts and pants/skirts that mix and match, turning three outfits into five or six. |
|
Wear your heaviest shoes during embarkation and disembarkation so you don't have to pack them. |
|
Pack small items inside larger ones (like jewelry inside shoes) for efficiency and safe-keeping. |
|
Bring an additional empty bag for those acquired extras. | | |
|
