first time cruiser

[KeithnRita]

If you are planning on doing any snorkeling buy your underwater disposable cameras at your local Walmart or a facsimile. You will save $$ if you have to purchase aboard ship or on one of the islands.

[KeithnRita]

If you are planning on doing any snorkeling buy your underwater disposable cameras at your local Walmart or a facsimile. You will save $$ if you have to purchase aboard ship or on one of the islands.

[sailingrose]

As already said, the bathroom items are very important. I always pack that suitcase first so I can take my time. Make sure you carry these aboard ship so no chance of getting lost.

Second most important to me is comfortable shoes, lots of walking both on and off the ship.

2 bathing suits are very handy. Try to mix and match outfits. It will cut down on how many things you bring. I usually take dark pants and 2 shirts to go with them for dinner 2 nights. Don't bring extra t-shirts.......we always seem to buy one somewhere, usually with the ships name on it.

[sailingrose]

As already said, the bathroom items are very important. I always pack that suitcase first so I can take my time. Make sure you carry these aboard ship so no chance of getting lost.

Second most important to me is comfortable shoes, lots of walking both on and off the ship.

2 bathing suits are very handy. Try to mix and match outfits. It will cut down on how many things you bring. I usually take dark pants and 2 shirts to go with them for dinner 2 nights. Don't bring extra t-shirts.......we always seem to buy one somewhere, usually with the ships name on it.

[GottaCruz]

Very important- a great smile and a party mood.You'll then be very well prepared. :D

[GottaCruz]

Very important- a great smile and a party mood.You'll then be very well prepared. :D

[Guest]

thank everyone! as far as a big smile and pary spirit I don't have to pack that ----Ihave that ever since i booked the cruise. Like Sailing Rose====" so excited" Alice

[Guest]

thank everyone! as far as a big smile and pary spirit I don't have to pack that ----Ihave that ever since i booked the cruise. Like Sailing Rose====" so excited" Alice

[Kerry]

Being a first-timer myself, I have relied on those more experienced to give me hints about all of the essential items. I started a spreadsheet for each one of us for packing (which sounds anal retentive) to keep track of everything! Someone mentioned a miniature sewing kit, someone else suggested a shower cap and a wise cruiser mentioned baggies (both for clothes and for various liquid items which might spill during transit) and a bungee cord. The baggies could also be used for bringing back things (I have a friend who wants me to bring back sand for her collection) and for tucking your valuables into (but not your wristwatch, please) to take with you while snorkeling. The small first aid kit containing over the counter items such as bandaids, antibiotic ointment, sunburn cream, upset tummy medication, allergy pills and linament is already in the suitcase permanently, just in case.

The packing list I mentioned came in handly a few weeks ago when we had to head out of town in a rush for a family funeral. I just omitted the swimsuits and shorts and substituted appropriate funeral clothing, and away we went. When we got to the airport, I was glad that I have already purchased plastic envelopes, clips and neck chains to hold our cruise cards while on board (we have to wear ID badges at work, so this is nothing new for us) and leather boarding pass holders which everyone is getting for Christmas, as you have to provide ID at the ticket counter and again when you board the aircraft. It's a pain to have to keep hauling out your drivers license or passport all the time. You should look into that kind of thing if you plan to travel frequently.

[Kerry]

Being a first-timer myself, I have relied on those more experienced to give me hints about all of the essential items. I started a spreadsheet for each one of us for packing (which sounds anal retentive) to keep track of everything! Someone mentioned a miniature sewing kit, someone else suggested a shower cap and a wise cruiser mentioned baggies (both for clothes and for various liquid items which might spill during transit) and a bungee cord. The baggies could also be used for bringing back things (I have a friend who wants me to bring back sand for her collection) and for tucking your valuables into (but not your wristwatch, please) to take with you while snorkeling. The small first aid kit containing over the counter items such as bandaids, antibiotic ointment, sunburn cream, upset tummy medication, allergy pills and linament is already in the suitcase permanently, just in case.

The packing list I mentioned came in handly a few weeks ago when we had to head out of town in a rush for a family funeral. I just omitted the swimsuits and shorts and substituted appropriate funeral clothing, and away we went. When we got to the airport, I was glad that I have already purchased plastic envelopes, clips and neck chains to hold our cruise cards while on board (we have to wear ID badges at work, so this is nothing new for us) and leather boarding pass holders which everyone is getting for Christmas, as you have to provide ID at the ticket counter and again when you board the aircraft. It's a pain to have to keep hauling out your drivers license or passport all the time. You should look into that kind of thing if you plan to travel frequently.