Aussie cruise worker reveals the essential pre-cruise task that can 'save a lot of time'
Cruisers are missing out by not putting enough planning into their trip says an Aussie worker who spends his evenings treading the boards at sea.
Dancer Zac McCulloch, 22, from Perth is a dancer for Celebrity Cruises.
He'll be on board the line's newest ship, Celebrity Xcel when it sets sail in a few weeks from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
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Celebrity Xcel will set sail in November. Supplied/Celebrity Cruises
And after a year performing at seas he has plenty of tips for cruisers. The first one begins before you've even got on board one of the mammoth vessels.
"One common mistake passengers make is not familiarising themselves with the layout of the ship before their trip," he tells 9Travel.
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"There is so much to see and do – even after months on board I still find hidden gems – so I recommend taking some time to learn the ship's layout beforehand, as it can save a lot of time during the cruise."
Start out by downloading the cruise lines' app or checking their website to earmark all the spots you want to visit and the activities you want to do.
Also embrace the events put on.
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Zac McCulloch has landed a role dancing on a cruise ship. Supplied
"On Caribbean sailings, I'd also encourage guests to experience the Poolest Day Ever onboard Celebrity Xcel, which is an all-day takeover held on every final sea day that brings island vibes with Caribbean-inspired live music and DJ-spun favourites, pop-up shows and friendly pool games," he tells us.
"Then, as the sun goes down, it turns into Shine the Night poolside party."
A day in the life of a cruise ship worker
Meanwhile, unlike many cruisers, Zac gets up and out early.
"If I'm not running an early morning Latin style dance class for our guests, I usually start my mornings around 9am," he says.
"I love to get outside on the outer deck first thing to read or journal, I find it a great way to get some fresh air and clear my mind before the evening of performances."
As a performer he is allowed to enjoy the guest areas as well as get off at ports, unlike some members of the crew.
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Aruba in the Caribbean is one of Zac's favourite places. Getty
The Oceanview Café buffet, which is found on Celebrity ships, is one of this favourite places to hang out.
And while breaking out of the usual healthy routine is a must for many guests, he must be strict.
"People often underestimate the routine of a performer on a cruise ship. It takes a whole lot of discipline and dedication to remember and deliver the full repertoire of 71 numbers across five shows," he says.
"Luckily, I like the process and the challenge and there's plenty of activities and facilities on board, including the chance to work out with some of the best views."
Zac is already rehearsing for the new shows in France where Celebrity Xcel is being built. Supplied
He's already rehearsing for the new shows in France where Celebrity Xcel is being built.
They include 1920's Hollywood inspired Between Takes and festival-style Mainstage – plus, a performance in The Club called Hotel, a "comedic whodunit"
He's keen to visit new rooftop Mediterranean restaurant Bora on Celebrity Xcel's rooftop once it welcomes guests.
The best place he's visited meanwhile is Aruba in the Caribbean.
"I found a fantastic poke bowl restaurant with the freshest ingredients, and the river was incredibly relaxing and beautiful," he says.
