Couple who've done 57 cruises say these are the things first timers get wrong
Aussies Scott and Leanne Gordon have not only notched up a total of 57 cruises, but have 12 more booked.
The Brisbane pair in their 50s have retired early from their jobs - Leanne in HR and Scott as an electrical engineer - to cruise.
They have sailed on all the major lines and have plenty of tips for first timers.
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Crusie first timers are being advised not to treat it like a land holiday. Getty
There's one major thing thing a lot of newbie cruisers get wrong.
"One of the biggest mistakes is treating a cruise like a land holiday," Leanne tells 9Travel. "A ship isn't just transport between ports, it's part of the experience.
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"Sea days are a chance to slow down, read a book, nap in the sun, or just watch the ocean go by.
"If you're used to constant activity, a few days at sea can feel weird at first, but they often become the highlight."
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Scott and Leanne have not only notched up a total of 57 cruises. Supplied
Another common mistake, especially these days, is not checking what's included in your cruise fare when you book.
Some cruise lines demand you pay extra for some things such as speciality dining, while others bundle everything in packages.
It might seem more expensive but it may not be if you plan to spend money on those things anyway.
"Drinks, WiFi, tips, specialty dining and excursions can add up quickly, so it's worth checking exactly what your fare covers," Leanne, who shares their travels online as @cruisingtravellers say.
The buffet is not always the best experience on your first day on a cruise. Supplied
Like many experts, they say avoiding the always-busy buffet on the first day is best.
You'll likely have to wait in a line and will probably eat too much.
Instead, dine in one of the restaurants.
But don't forget to go up on deck to see the ship leave, known as sailaway.
"That first departure is so special and reminds you why you're there," Leanne says.
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Scott and Leanne Gordon have 12 more cruises already booked. Supplied
What to pack for a cruise
The couple reckon a lot of holidaymakers stress about the dress code.
But they say it's "unnecessary," adding you'll probably take too much.
You can also use laundry services or even wash your own clothes as some ships have laundry rooms.
"Most cruise lines are generally more relaxed than people expect," they say.
"Pack something a bit smarter if you want to join the dressier evenings, but don't worry about perfecting every look."
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Scott and Leanne Gordon, from Brisbane are sailing the world in retirement. Supplied
Which cruise line to choose
As for deciding which cruise line to choose, the couple say to do your research and don't forget it's not always about ports on the itinerary.
"Consider the ship design, dining style, entertainment and passenger demographic," Leanne says.
"A short party cruise and a longer premium sailing might visit similar ports, but the onboard experience can feel completely different."
Researching the best cruise line for you is important. Callum Snape/Supplied
Best places in the world to cruise
While sailing the Mediterranean or glacier bay in Alaska might be bucket list stuff for many, the experts reckon some of the best cruise experiences in the world are right here in Australasia.
"From Australia sailing out of Sydney never gets old," Leanne tells us.
Cruising from Sydney is one of the best places in the world. Getty
"Our favourite itinerary close to home is New Zealand.
"Internationally, we've loved ports like Valletta, New York, Vancouver and Edinburgh - completely different, but each memorable.
"Norway is hard to beat for scenery, and the Mediterranean offers a great blend of culture and coastline."
