Top Etiquette Tips for Cruising

Posted on January 25, 2013 by

If you’ve ever been on a cruise ship, then you’ve probably encountered your share of impolite people on board. Unfortunately, there’s no way to keep them from being insufferable to other people. However, you can do something about your conduct. Here are several etiquette tips to follow on your next cruise.

Tip #1: Close your cabin door quietly

It’s not polite to slam your cabin door, or any door for that matter, at any time. You never know who’s relaxing in a nearby room. It’s a vacation, after all, so passengers are actually trying to unwind. When you close your door, do so slowly and quietly. Since cabins are close to each other, any racket you make could be heard several rooms down the corridor.

Tip #2: Drink in moderation

Yes, it’s your vacation, so you’re partying with your friends. There’s nothing wrong with that, right? Of course not. But if you drink too much and go crazy, you might get injured in your drunkenness. Worse, if you’re utterly smashed and start disturbing other passengers, you might get booted off the ship, thus ending your party. Have fun but keep it easy on the liquor.

Tip #3: Follow the dress code

While the dress code may not be strongly enforced in some cruise ships, your overall enjoyment of the trip is affected by your compliance to these rules. Consider that at the very least, being underdressed would make you feel out of place. With a compulsory dress code, you’d eat alone in your cabin on formal nights if you don’t have a tux or suit. And since almost every evening is formal night, it’s doubtful that you’ll enjoy the trip then. Bottom line: following the dress code is a sign of respect; do so and your trip will be better for it.

Tip #4: Manage your expectations

Cruise ships today can carry more than 3,000 people so don’t expect the trip to be perfect all throughout. The elevators may be filled to capacity each time; you asked for a double bed but got two separate ones; your tablemates are ill-mannered; or your cabin’s TV is acting up. The trick is to manage your expectations as things can go wrong. If you quit whining and try to have a more positive mindset, you can turn these setbacks around and still enjoy your cruise.

Tip #5: You’re not the only passenger

When you go on a cruise, remember there are several thousand other passengers with you. That means you’re not the only customer. When you take a poolside seat, refrain from leaving your things on empty seats beside you, especially if your companions won’t be joining you soon. While talking to someone on your mobile phone, keep your voice down. If you’re with people from other countries, don’t expect them to speak English to accommodate you.

Tip #6: Be a polite viewer

You should be a polite audience member and keep your snide comments to yourself, even when the musician makes a mistake; or even if the stand-up comedian isn’t very funny. If you’re already sleepy, stay away from the front seats of the theatre. Imagine how performers would feel if they saw you doze off during the show.

Tip #7: Tips are welcome

Cruise ship employees are paid an average of $800 per month, which is why they depend greatly on tips. Look, it’s natural to try and save money when you’re on your trip, but gratuity is a part of cruising. If you’re impressed with the service, see to it that you reward that crew member. However, don’t overdo it—excessive tipping can make waiters more attentive to you, but they might ignore everyone else.

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