Cruising Tips

We recommend carrying a backpack or other easy to carry bag wherever you may be waiting (i.e. airport, embarking, disembarking). Here is what we suggest to put in your

Bag of Tricks:

* Sunscreen
* Sunglasses
* Hand Sanitizer
* Deodorant
* Breath Mints or Gum
* Magazines &/or a good book
* Small Travel Games (cribbage, playing cards, yatzee, trivia cards)
* Compact CD player & CDs
* Chapstick
* Visor/Hat
* Water Bottle & Snacks
* Highlighter (to mark all the activities from the shipboad paper you do not want to miss!)

For Children:

* Crackers, pretzels, peanuts, raisins, trail mix, etc.
* Crayons/Coloring Book
* Invisible Ink Coloring Book
* Hand Wipes
* Bandaids
* Activity Books (Hidden Pictures, Mazes)
* Portable Games (extra batteries)

Packing Tips

It is recommended, and also very convenient to use luggage with wheels. Also, try to bring one large bag with other smaller bags that will fit into the large bag. This will save closet space in your cabin after you unpack your bags.

Tie bright colored bandanas or socks on the all handles of your luggage.
(They will be easier to identify at baggage claim!)

If you plan on shopping, you may consider packing an empty duffle bag and luggage tag.

You will most likely require at least two swimsuits and at least two pair of very comfortable shoes (sandals & tennis shoes) for shore excursions or just cruising around the ship. We also recommend packing a sweater for strolling the decks at night.

Before you leave town:

Family Vacation:

* Contact Family not living with you
* Contact Neighbors
* Contact Teachers
* Arrange Mail & Newspaper Pick-up
* Arrange for Care of Pets
* Clean out Refrigerator
* Close Curtains
* Turn off Water to Washing Machine
* Set Timers and Lights
* Water Plants
* Lock Doors & Windows
* Leave House Key with Friend or Neighbor

Vacation Without Children

* Leave Travel Itinerary for Babysitter
* Leave Name of Grandparents or Close Family Member
* Contact Neighbors
* Leave Release for Surgery or Emergency Treatment with Sitter
* Write Schedule for Children
* Contact Teachers and Carpool Members

***Board Early!

Why not get started! What can you do???

* Stroll the decks
* Explore your ship
* Check out your stateroom
* Hang out by the pool
* Sample the buffet
* Play ping-pong or shuffleboard
* Visit the lounge, library or health spa

*** See tickets for boarding information.

Disembarking
When it is time for you to disembark the ship, instead of waiting on the stairs inside the ship with everyone else, you may wait on the outside decks until you hear your instructions over the loud speaker. And remember your Bag of Tricks!