Biggest mistake first-time cruisers make on day one, according to worker
As the person in charge of the entertainment on board a cruise ship, Lizzie Clough knows her stuff.
And the Cruise Director of Aussie-based ship, Carnival Splendor said there are a handful of things she sees cruises continually get wrong.
"One of the most common things we see from cruisers is what I like to call the 'day one everything everywhere all at once' approach," Lizzie tells nine.com.au.
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Carnival Splendor's Cruise Director Lizzie Clough has worked on cruises for eight years. Supplied
"They board the ship ready to do it all immediately and I always say, pace yourselves
"The ship isn't going anywhere, and neither is the fun," she said.
You also need to pay attention to the schedule of events. Many ships still print off daily activity lists and leave them on your bed in the evening, while others have apps.
"That little schedule is your golden ticket onboard. It's where all the magic is listed, from big shows to surprise activities," she said.
"I always tell guests: check it early, highlight your must-dos, and then let the rest of the day unfold."
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Many ships still print off daily activity lists and leve them on your bed in the evening, while others have apps. Supplied
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She said packing blunders can also be "entertaining," so do take your time to consider what you need.
"Some guests arrive with enough outfits to film a feature film, and others suddenly realise they've become very committed to wearing the same 'day three casual look'," she said.
"You'll want your relaxed poolside outfits, something a little smarter for evenings, and comfortable clothes for in between.
"And one thing I always remind guests don't forget to find out about the themed nights."
Plus, while many travellers dismiss sea days as "boring", they are far from it, she said.
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Lizzie, 30, from Devon in the UK first started as a bingo host on ships. Supplied
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"There's so much happening onboard that most guests end up wishing they had more time, not less," she said.
Lizzie, 30, originally from Devon in the UK, has been working on cruises for eight years.
She started out as a bingo host with the company's Fun Squad, as the entertainers are called. Passengers will see her at many of the activities.
While she loves travelling and performing, it's the guests which mean the most.
"Ultimately it's the people that make it so special," she said.
As for things you must do on a cruise, it's simple.
You might not do it on land, but give it a go when you're at sea. Getty
You might not do it on land, but give it a go when you're at sea.
From Bingo to dance classes and silent discos to yoga, there's so much on offer.
"A cruise is all about discovering new places while having everything you need right at your fingertips," she said.
"Get involved in the entertainment, try activities you wouldn't normally do, explore the ship and make the most of every port."
