Derek's A to Z of Cruising
Everything you need to know about cruising, with tips and advice from Derek
Airport Parking
If you want to arrange airport parking even before your flight details are confirmed, many operators will let you book and adjust dates later. Sites like Holidayextras.com let you make a booking and then update the dates, times and terminal without any issues. The earlier you arrange it, the more options you will have. If you have any flight questions, speak to the Cruise1st Customer Care Team.
Boarding the Ship
As we cruise as a large group, we always try to arrange a co-ordinated early check-in time so you don't have to hang around at your hotel. We'll communicate the details by email in advance so you know exactly what time check-in begins for our group. If you can, have your booking documents either printed or ready to scan on your phone - it helps enormously for boarding swiftly (and gets you to your first cocktail quicker!).
Cruise Cabin
If you've never cruised before, you might be wondering what's in your cabin. Your cruise cabin is fully equipped with linens, towels and shower amenities (shampoo and body wash) which are topped up throughout the cruise. Once booked, you'll receive your cruise line booking number which is different to your Cruise1st CRU-XXXXXX reference. You can use it to log into the cruise line's website to manage your booking, look at excursions, and add packages before you sail - often at lower prices than on board.
Drinks Package
Drinks packages can transform your cruise experience. From all-inclusive deals to pay-as-you-go options, most cruise lines offer a range of packages to suit every taste and budget. Book in advance for the best price - packages bought before boarding are nearly always cheaper than those purchased on board.
Excursions
Most cruise lines offer shore excursions at each port of call. You should have access to these through the cruise line's app or website using your booking reference before you sail. Some may only become available when you're on board. Have a look through, see what takes your fancy, and keep checking back as new ones often appear. The shore excursions team on board are always excellent and happy to offer advice.
Flight Information
For fly-cruise holidays, your flight information might arrive some time after booking. This is completely normal and allows the flight team to take advantage of airline group bookings. Once you have your flight details, log in to your airline booking to select seats and look at any upgrades. If you ever need an update, you can always speak to the Cruise1st Customer Care Team with your CRU-XXXXXX booking number.
Gratuities
Many cruise lines now include gratuities (or tips) as part of the cruise fare, and on several of our Cruise with Derek holidays they're included in the package. However, there's nothing stopping you from recognising someone individually - your cabin steward, restaurant staff or other crew - with a personal tip. It's always greatly appreciated by the hardworking crew on board.
Hotel Stay
Many of our Cruise with Derek packages include hotel stays before or after the cruise. If you have any issues at your hotel, the first thing to do is speak to the hotel reception to try and resolve it. This often remedies any queries quickly. If it's not to your satisfaction, you can always seek advice from the Cruise1st Customer Care Team.
Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for any cruise. Make sure your policy specifically covers cruise travel, including missed port departures, cabin confinement, and medical evacuation at sea. Check the small print - not all standard travel policies cover cruise-specific situations. Book your insurance at the same time as your cruise to get the maximum cover period.
Joining Instructions
Your joining instructions will arrive from the cruise line a few weeks before sailing. Read them carefully - they contain everything from luggage tags to what time to arrive at the port or airport. If you're on a fly-cruise, make sure you have all your travel documents, passport and any visa requirements sorted well in advance. The Cruise1st team are always on hand to help with any queries.
Keeping in Touch
Most modern cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages so you can stay connected at sea. Prices vary by cruise line - some of our packages include Wi-Fi as standard. Many ships also have an internal messaging app that lets you message others in your group for free when connected to the ship's network. It's great for arranging to meet up with fellow Cruise with Derek guests!
Luggage Labels
Make sure you have your luggage labels in good time for boarding the ship. They'll be emailed to you before you travel. If you can, print them at home, fill them in, and take them in your luggage when you leave. A stapler is handy for attaching them to your cases. If you don't have them, don't panic - the team at the port will be able to help you and issue labels. It just takes a little longer to sort.
Muster Drill
The mandatory safety drill that takes place before the ship sails. Every passenger must complete it - it's the law! Most cruise lines now do this digitally through their app, or via a brief visit to your assembly station. It only takes a few minutes and shows you where to go in an emergency. Get it done early and you can get on with enjoying the ship!
Nights Out on Board
Cruise ships offer incredible evening entertainment - from West End-style shows and live music to comedy acts and deck parties. Most entertainment is included in your cruise fare. Check the daily programme (usually available through the ship's app) each morning to plan your evening. On Cruise with Derek sailings, we often have our own exclusive evening events too - details will be shared before and during the cruise.
Onboard Account
All payments on board are cashless and charged to your onboard account. When you check in, you'll register a credit or debit card for any charges. Your cruise card (or wristband on some ships) is used to tap and pay at bars, shops, the spa and more. You can check your running balance at any time through the ship's app or at guest services. Your account must be settled before you disembark.
Packing Tips
Less is more when it comes to cruise packing. Most ships have laundry facilities, so you dont need to pack for every day. Smart-casual is the standard dress code for most evenings, with formal nights on longer sailings. Dont forget to pack a small bag for port days - sunscreen, a camera, and comfortable walking shoes are must-haves.
Queue Busting
Top tip for embarkation day: arrive at your allocated check-in time and have your documents ready. Download the cruise line's app and complete online check-in before you arrive - this speeds things up enormously. On board, the buffet is always busiest at noon - try eating slightly earlier or later for a quieter experience. The same goes for shows - arrive 15 minutes early for the best seats.
Resort & Hotel Taxes
Something to be aware of - it's becoming more common for cities and states to charge resort or tourist taxes on hotel stays. These local charges are collected by the hotel directly and usually charged per room, per night. They're similar to the tourist taxes appearing in cities across the UK and abroad. These are paid to the hotel reception when you check in and are separate from your Cruise1st package price.
Speciality Dining
Most cruise ships have speciality restaurants alongside the main dining room and buffet. These usually have a cover charge but offer a more intimate dining experience with premium menus. It's worth booking early to secure a table, especially on sea days when they're most popular. Your drinks package (if included) is usually valid in speciality restaurants too - so you can enjoy a lovely meal with your favourite tipple.
Transfers
Transfers may or may not be included in your package, depending on the cruise. If they're not included, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft are usually the easiest and most cost-effective way to get around in most cities. There are always taxis available at airports and ports, and it's worth checking if there are public transport options too - these can be cheaper but often take longer. The Cruise1st team can advise on transfer options for your specific cruise.
Upgrades
Keep an eye out for cabin upgrade offers! Cruise lines sometimes offer upgrades closer to the sailing date at reduced rates. Cruise1st are brilliant at spotting these opportunities and will let you know if something comes up. It's also worth checking if the cruise line offers bid-for-upgrade schemes where you can name your price for a better cabin. A balcony upgrade is always worth considering if the price is right!
Visas & Vaccinations
Make sure you check the entry requirements for every country on your itinerary well in advance. Some destinations require visas or specific vaccinations. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. For US-bound cruises, you'll need an ESTA. The Cruise1st team can point you in the right direction, but it's your responsibility to ensure all travel documents are in order before you travel.
Welcome Meeting
When we first get on board, we'll have a welcome meeting planned. We'll let you know where and when - and it's a great idea to come along, meet the team and get an idea of what you can expect during the cruise. This is also where you can pick up your goodie bag with a full rundown of events and get-togethers we have planned. It's a brilliant opportunity to meet fellow Cruise with Derek guests and start the holiday with a smile!
Xtra Special Moments
Cruise with Derek holidays are full of xtra special moments you won't get on a regular cruise. From exclusive welcome parties and group get-togethers to Derek's personal port talks and farewell dinners, these are the touches that make the difference. Keep your camera ready - some of the best memories come from the unplanned moments with fellow cruisers. And don't forget to check in with Derek's team for any surprise events along the way!
Your Cruise Card
You'll be given a cruise card when you first get on board. This is your key to everything - it gets you into your cabin, lets you charge items at bars, shops and the spa, and is your ID for getting on and off the ship at ports. Some cruise lines also offer a silicone wristband alternative (usually for a small charge) which works like a contactless payment band. Never leave the ship without your cruise card!
Zero Worries
One of the greatest joys of cruising with Cruise1st is that everything is taken care of. From flights and transfers to accommodation and most meals, its all included. With Derek and the team on hand throughout, and Cruise1sts 25 years of expertise behind every booking, you can focus entirely on enjoying yourself.