Cruise Pilot Tips

Here you will find our collection of cruise pilot tips to help you get the most out of your next cruise.

If you are NEW to cruising – click HERE (when ready) for our First mate’s guide to cruise ships.

1. Planning

It’s a good idea to know what you want out of your cruise well ahead of time. Sure you can have a good time if you just turn up with no expectations – but getting to grips with “the way things work” ahead of time can save you vital hours and minutes of your – let’s face it – expensive trip on a boat.

2. Preparation

Proper preparation prevents poor performance. It’s a good idea to prepare for your trip well in advance – packing your case and going over your kit list until you’re sure you’ve got everything you need in one place. Some cruises go to warmer climates and some require a little warmer clothing. Preparing ahead of time can prevent you from missing out on opportunities and excursions because of improper clothing or equipment.

3. Know your ports

Knowing where you are going should come as part of your planning. There’s no better way to waste a day in port – than stepping off the ship with no clue about what’s in the immediate and surrounding areas. Your cruise operator will have information about excursions you can take – but nothing beats getting a real life perspective on what’s good to do ashore in each port.

4. Learn the layout

Some ships have a similar build theme and share some design features that are recognisable when on-board – but most ships have their own unique quirks and layouts that differ from other ships. It’s a great idea to orientate yourself around the ship familiarising yourself with the different features and places you might visit as soon as you get onto the ship. Watching videos and seeing images before you set sail can help you to feel familiar when boarding the ship but it’s no substitute for walking the decks yourself.

5. Read your mail

Most ships print their own daily newsletters and have plenty of information for you to read on arrival. You should do your best to read through it all as soon as you can. It might contain changes in the pre-advertised schedule or include updates about other features on the ship.

6. Listen up

Throughout the day you will hear announcements from the captain and from the officers of the watch. These may contain specialist instructions for crew – or general safety instructions for passengers in instances like a helicopter being used to transport someone off the ship – or perhaps a fuelling vessel is alongside. Often crew stage drills which can include simulated fire response and closing of watertight compartment doors. You will always hear notification of this on the ship’s speakers. These announcements don’t ordinarily play inside your cabin so it may be necessary to open your door if these announcements happen suddenly.

7. Plan your meals early

It might be necessary to book yourself in for speciality dining. Often you’ll find this available up to 10 days prior to cruising on your app or website. If you’ve got your heart set on eating at a particular restaurant – make sure to book in early and if your table isn’t available for your desired night – you can always keep checking back as some guests do overbook and then later release their slots when not required.

(We will be adding to this page daily – If you would like to submit your own tip please email us at info@cruisepilot.co.uk )