You just stepped aboard the cruise ship. Your cruise cabin is not ready. What should you do? Here are “8 Things to Do Immediately After Boarding the Cruise Ship” so that you don’t waste time or money:
1. Turn Your Cell Phone to Airplane Mode
Put your cellphone on Airplane Mode to avoid any unexpected “roaming” fees that your cellphone provider might charge as you sail off into the sunset on international waters. Be sure that everyone in your crew does the same to avoid any hefty cell phone fees.
2. Log into the Free Cruise WIFI
Connect to the free Cruise WiFi on your cruise ship.
If you are sailing on Royal Caribbean, the free Cruise WiFi will give you access to the Cruise App ONLY. The free Cruise WiFi aboard Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas cruise ship will look something like this:
After you connect to the free WiFi onboard, the Cruise App will upload activities specific to your cruise ship.
- Cruise Tip: If you want to access the internet, you need a separate plan. Plan before you go for best price options.
3. Check-In at Your Muster Station
What is a Muster Station?
A Muster Station is a meeting place where passengers assemble should there be an emergency. At the Assembly Location (i.e. Muster Station), cruise passengers are provided with safety information about life jackets and more.
Do I have to Check-In at the Muster Station on my Cruise?
Yes, checking-in at the Muster Station is MANDATORY.
Where is the Muster Station Located on a Cruise Ship?
There are multiple Muster Stations on a cruise ship. To locate your Assembly Station (also called Muster Station), use the Cruise App or ask a crew member. Go to your assigned Muster Station and check-in with the crew member at your Muster Station.
4. Reserve Entertainment (e.g., Laser Tag, Skating, Nightly Shows)
Depending on your cruise sailing, you may have to reserve a spot for the free nightly shows. Do that now to avoid disappointment later. You can always cancel your reservation should your plans change. Most reservations can be made on the Cruise App.
Reserve a spot for Laser Tag, Skating, and all other activities that interest you. There are certain activities that limit you to one reservation per sailing. Book a time and day that is most convenient for you. Reservations for the most popular time slots fill quickly.
- Cruise Tip: If sailing with Royal Caribbean, take a photo of all of the available time slots for Laser Tag before you make your reservation. You can only make one reservation per sailing and once you make your reservation, you cannot see the available time slots. If you have time in your schedule, you can wait in the “stand-by” line and possibly get in an extra game or two if people do not show up for their reservation time.
5. Eat
Find the complimentary buffet onboard and go eat!!!
6. Register your children at the Kid’s Club
Beat the rush!! Register your children (under 12) at the Kid’s Club. Some cruise lines promote their Kid’s Club and offer free merchandise if your child is one of the first kids to register. Registering your children for the Kid’s Club will save you time if you choose to drop them off later in the day or week.
Many cruise lines will require your child to wear his/her sea pass card for identity purposes while inside the Kid’s Club. Buy a Lanyard (with a Safety Breakaway clasp) for your child’s Sea Pass card.
7. Check Out Your Cabin Room
Chances are your Cabin Room is now ready. Most rooms will not be ready until 1pm. Sometimes later. Go to your room and use the safe inside the room to lock away any valuables. Your safe might be located in the closet or inside a cabinet.
8. Grab a Chair at the Poolside
While others are exploring the ship, grab a chair at the poolside (before they are all gone). Dip your toes in the water and let your kids splash around! If you are not quite ready to jump in the pool, check out the Cruise App and “Add to Calendar” every event and activity that sounds interesting.
Once you have finished my list of “8 Things to Do Immediately After Boarding the Cruise Ship”, it’s time to relax. So, go ahead, lay back on your poolside chair, breathe deeply, and enjoy your trip!!
Here are a few cruise jokes to tell your kids.
Until next time….
Have a wonderful cruise!!
-Shelley