First-Time Cruising

Top 5 Rookie Cruise Mistakes

Updated June 9, 20255 min readBy the Cruise Compass editors

Affiliate disclosure: Cruise Compass is reader-supported. When you book through our CruiseDirect links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read more.

The short answer

Common cruise mistakes include not researching the ship and itinerary.

Taking a cruise for the first time can be a daunting experience, with many rookie cruise mistakes waiting to happen, such as not booking a cabin in a suitable location, which can cost between $800 and $3000 per person, depending on the cruise line and itinerary.

In this article, we will cover the top 5 rookie cruise mistakes, including not understanding the daily routine, not budgeting for extras, and not being prepared for the muster drill, which typically takes place within the first 24 hours of setting sail.

Ready to price it up?Check current sailings and fares on CruiseDirect before you commit to a cruise line.

Compare prices →

Not Researching the Ship and Itinerary

Not researching the ship and itinerary is one of the most common rookie cruise mistakes, with many first-time cruisers not realizing that different ships have different layouts, amenities, and activities, such as the Oasis-class ships having a robotic bartender on deck 12, and the Quantum-class ships having an indoor skydiving simulator on deck 13.

For example, the Norwegian Epic has a stricter dress code than the Carnival Vista, with men required to wear a jacket and tie in the main dining room on formal nights, which can be a problem if you have not packed accordingly, and can cost around $100 to $200 to purchase a suitable outfit onboard.

Check the ship's deck plan to avoid noisy cabins
Look up the itinerary to plan shore excursions in ports like Barcelona and Rome
Read reviews to get a sense of the onboard atmosphere

Not Budgeting for Extras

Not budgeting for extras is another common rookie cruise mistake, with many first-time cruisers not realizing that drinks, shore excursions, and specialty dining can add up quickly, with typical costs ranging from $50 to $200 per person per day.

For example, a drink package on the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas can cost around $60 to $80 per person per day, while a shore excursion in St Maarten can cost around $100 to $150 per person, and can be booked in advance through the cruise line's website or onboard at the shore excursion desk on deck 5.

Set aside $500 to $1000 per person for extras
Consider booking a drink package or specialty dining in advance
Look for free or low-cost activities onboard, such as the entertainment options on deck 3

Not Understanding the Daily Routine

Not understanding the daily routine is a rookie cruise mistake that can cause confusion and stress, with many first-time cruisers not realizing that there are set times for meals, activities, and entertainment, such as the early bird special in the main dining room from 5:30pm to 6:30pm, and the late-night comedy show in the theater at 10:30pm.

For example, the muster drill typically takes place within the first 24 hours of setting sail, and can be a problem if you are not prepared, with typical times ranging from 3pm to 5pm, and can be found in the daily cruise planner or onboard TV.

Check the daily cruise planner for activity times
Plan your day around meal times, such as breakfast from 7am to 10am
Attend the muster drill to learn safety procedures

Pricing up first-time cruising?

Once you know what you want, the only way to know what it costs is to check live fares. CruiseDirect compares sailings across all the major cruise lines in a single search.

Search cruise deals →

We may earn a commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you. It helps keep these guides free.

Not Being Prepared for the Muster Drill

Not being prepared for the muster drill is a rookie cruise mistake that can cause anxiety and confusion, with many first-time cruisers not realizing that it is a mandatory safety drill that takes place within the first 24 hours of setting sail, and can be a problem if you are not prepared, with typical times ranging from 3pm to 5pm.

For example, you will need to bring your life jacket and attend the designated muster station, which can be found on the back of your cabin door or in the daily cruise planner, and can take around 30 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on the size of the ship and the number of passengers.

Check the back of your cabin door for muster station information
Bring your life jacket to the muster drill
Listen to the safety briefing and follow instructions

Not Choosing the Right Cabin Location

Not choosing the right cabin location is a rookie cruise mistake that can affect your overall cruise experience, with many first-time cruisers not realizing that different cabin locations can have different views, noise levels, and amenities, such as the cabins on deck 10 having a better view of the ocean than the cabins on deck 2, and can cost between $1000 and $5000 per person, depending on the cruise line and itinerary.

For example, a cabin near the elevator or nightclub can be noisy, while a cabin near the spa or pool can be more relaxing, and can be booked in advance through the cruise line's website or onboard at the reception desk on deck 3, with typical booking times ranging from 9am to 5pm.

Check the deck plan to choose a quiet cabin location
Consider booking a cabin with a balcony for better views
Look for cabins near amenities, such as the fitness center on deck 11

Not Booking Shore Excursions in Advance

Not booking shore excursions in advance is a rookie cruise mistake that can cause disappointment and stress, with many first-time cruisers not realizing that popular excursions can sell out quickly, such as the beach break in the Bahamas or the city tour in Rome, and can cost between $50 and $200 per person, depending on the excursion and the cruise line.

For example, booking a shore excursion in advance can ensure that you get to experience the activities and sights you want, such as snorkeling in the Caribbean or visiting the Colosseum in Rome, and can be booked through the cruise line's website or onboard at the shore excursion desk on deck 5, with typical booking times ranging from 9am to 5pm.

Research shore excursions in advance to book popular ones
Consider booking through the cruise line for convenience
Look for excursions that offer a guarantee, such as a refund if the ship does not make port

Key takeaways

Research the ship and itinerary to avoid rookie mistakes
Budget for extras, such as drinks and shore excursions
Understand the daily routine to plan your day
Be prepared for the muster drill to ensure safety

Where to book this cruise

When booking your cruise, make sure to research the ship and itinerary to avoid rookie mistakes, and consider budgeting for extras, such as drinks and shore excursions, which can add up quickly. Compare current sailings and prices on CruiseDirect before booking to find the best deal for your needs.

Check today's fares on CruiseDirect

Compare every major cruise line side by side, filter by date, port and cabin type, and see the real price before you commit. Searching costs nothing.

Search CruiseDirect deals →

We may earn a commission if you book through this link, at no extra cost to you. It helps keep these guides free.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical cost of a drink package on a cruise?

The typical cost of a drink package on a cruise ranges from $50 to $100 per person per day, depending on the cruise line and the package.

How do I choose the right cabin location on a cruise ship?

To choose the right cabin location on a cruise ship, check the deck plan to avoid noisy areas, consider booking a cabin with a balcony for better views, and look for cabins near amenities, such as the spa or pool.

What is the muster drill and why is it important?

The muster drill is a mandatory safety drill that takes place within the first 24 hours of setting sail, and is important to attend to learn safety procedures and to ensure your safety in case of an emergency.

How do I book shore excursions on a cruise?

Shore excursions can be booked through the cruise line's website or onboard at the shore excursion desk, and it is recommended to book popular excursions in advance to avoid disappointment.

What are some common rookie cruise mistakes to avoid?

Common rookie cruise mistakes to avoid include not researching the ship and itinerary, not budgeting for extras, not understanding the daily routine, not being prepared for the muster drill, and not choosing the right cabin location.