Top Ten Cruise Holiday Tips

Considering a cruise for the very first time but not entirely sure of what to expect then let us help with some tips.

This is not a conventional list, we have included tips both pre and post cruise just to make sure nothing is left to chance.

1 Read through all information before you leave, attach luggage tags and fill out any boarding paperwork well in advance of departure

2 Celebrating something at sea? Check with your cruise line for pricing information and deadlines for ordering cakes, streamers etc. Usually this means booking them six weeks before departure

3 Discuss special dietary needs with your cruise line six weeks before you depart and get a written confirmation that they understand your diet in case of any problems

4 Friends and family are welcome to see you off, but for security reasons only cruise passengers are allowed onto the ship so say goodbye on dry land

5 Sea-sickness is best discussed with your doctor before you leave home – that way you can carry the right treatment, just in case

6 Most staterooms have 110-volt AC electrical outlets and hair dryers. Check your ship's specifications – but you will almost certainly need an adaptor and these are far cheaper to buy before you leave!

7 Most cruise lines ask you to have your cases packed and put them outside your stateroom the night before you disembark, so remember to keep everything you need in your carry-on bag for the last night of your stay

8 Medical treatment on board must to be paid for but can usually be reclaimed through your holiday insurance

9 If you have a child that takes a nap each afternoon (or even if you do!) arrange with your room steward that the cabin will cleaned either before or after that time

10 If you enjoy your first cruise, sign up for more! Repeat cruisers can join cruise line loyalty schemes and receive additional benefits.