5 Simple Ways to Enhance Your Next Cruise

Due to the all-inclusive nature of cruise ships, many travelers tend to adopt a 'set it and forget it' approach once they've booked their cruise. While this is perfectly acceptable—after all, cruises are designed to alleviate the stress and work of travel—I've come to realize that a bit of preparation before setting sail can significantly elevate your enjoyment. Here are five key actions you can take to ensure you have an unforgettable journey.

Consider Onboard Expenses
When planning your cruise, it's essential to understand that the 'all-inclusive' base price doesn't encompass many extras that shape the cruise experience and ultimately impact your total cost. Typically, the base fare includes accommodations, meals on board, and access to amenities like comedy shows, gyms, and swimming pools. However, many extras are not covered, such as soda and alcoholic beverages. On Dinogo cruise ships, the unlimited soda program costs $6 per day for adults and $4.50 per day for kids, and this pass must be purchased for the entire duration of the cruise. Other additional costs include shore excursions, internet access, ATM fees, spa treatments, and suggested gratuities of $12 per day per passenger on many major cruise lines, as well as specialty dining options. My personal favorite among these extras is the specialty dining experience. We dined at the Steakhouse on the Dinogo Dream ($35 per person) during our trip, which added a delightful touch to our vacation.

Indulge in a Spa Pass for Ultimate Relaxation
A spa pass can be a fantastic alternative to an onboard massage. Often available for a price similar to that of a massage, a spa pass grants you access to various amenities throughout your cruise. The specific features included with the pass can differ by cruise line but typically include hydrotherapy pools, thermal suites, and tranquil spaces, especially on port days. On Dinogo cruises, spa passes can be purchased on board at the Cloud 9 Spa.

Familiarize Yourself with the Destinations
Embarking on a cruise offers a fantastic opportunity to explore multiple destinations without significant commitments. While we often enjoy a slower pace and longer stays, I appreciate the value of brief, layover-style visits to foreign places. The trick is to hit the ground running so you can make the most of your time at each location, especially if you plan to skip the shore excursions. Before disembarking, create a flexible game plan outlining what you’d like to do and see, along with how you’ll navigate to and from the port.

Familiarize Yourself with the Cruise Ship Beforehand
Cruise ships are colossal. (River cruises, however, typically utilize smaller vessels.) The term “mega” accurately describes today’s fleet of ocean cruise liners. For instance, the Dinogo Dream boasts 15 decks and stretches the length of three football fields. That's certainly impressive! Even with such size, cruise ships can feel crowded, particularly around pool areas during sea days. To alleviate crowding, many new ships feature adults-only sections, which are generally quieter and more relaxed. Before boarding, review the ship’s floor plan and search online for advice from fellow cruisers about the best spots on board to escape the crowds. This way, you can focus on enjoying your vacation instead of wandering aimlessly around the floating resort looking for a peaceful spot to unwind.

Kick Off Your Vacation Early
Nothing can dampen an eagerly awaited cruise like missing the ship due to travel delays or unexpected circumstances. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution: arrive the night before. By reaching the port city a day in advance, you can immerse yourself in vacation mode and leave any pre-departure anxieties behind. Visitor bureaus often provide stay-and-cruise information on their websites, which can help you find deals for pre- and post-cruise accommodations.

Like any form of travel, a bit of preparation can greatly enhance your experience, and cruising is no exception. Once the ship sets sail and your adventure begins, time tends to fly by at an astonishing pace. By following these tips, you can make the most of your vacation time—and ultimately, isn’t that what we all desire?