What to Pack for Your First Cruise
Magnetic hooks, non-surge power strip, refillable water bottle, the cruise-specific items that actually matter.
We help you navigate everything from picking the right cabin to budgeting for that perfect shore excursion.
Free tools we built for our own cruise planning: compare packages and budget before you book.
Track every dollar from base fare to beverage packages without surprises.
Try the ToolCompare drink and dining packages across cruise lines before you book.
Compare PackagesBow, stern, port, starboard, what to know, which cabins to avoid, and how to match cabin type to trip.
View GuideNew episodes land on YouTube first, cruise dining walkthroughs, ship reviews, and package comparisons. Subscribe to get each one on day one.
In-depth guides to help you cruise like a pro from day one.
Booking, embarkation day, tipping basics, packing, and the arrival sequence that sets up the whole cruise. The pre-cruise reading new cruisers need.
Inside, oceanview, balcony, suite. How to pick the right cabin category for how you actually use the room, sleeping only, lounging, or balcony time at sea.
The full planning library: dining honesty, money and hidden fees, the free starter checklist, and the planning flow from booking through your first day onboard.
Two free games we made for the days between cruises. No account, no download, saves in your browser.
Climb ten decks as Oleg or Zhanna, dodge the buffet seagulls, and find ten hidden rubber ducks.
Play Deck Dash
Drive a golf cart around four Caribbean islands, beat four challenges, and make it back before all aboard.
Play the island gameMagnetic hooks, non-surge power strip, refillable water bottle, the cruise-specific items that actually matter.
Gratuities, beverage service charges, Wi-Fi, what's actually extra on top of your fare, and how to budget for it.
Location matters more than cabin type. Decks to avoid, the motion-free sweet spot, and a 5-minute deck-plan cheat sheet.
A few years ago we took our first cruise and simply enjoyed it. A few cruises later, we decided to take it seriously: comparing packages, testing what actually works on board, and taking notes. Now we share everything helpful we learn along the way, so your next cruise is easier to plan than our first one was.