Visualize it: You’ve been planning your upcoming trip for months. Friend Choose the perfect ship and itineraries, round out your holiday wardrobe and browse the endless list of dining options and spa treatments. Then you board the train and head to the excursion desk only to discover that there is no room left for the once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will be the climax of your trip.
Don’t let this happen to you. If you’ve signed up for the cruise and don’t want to miss out, you can pre-order a variety of activities, experiences, and meals at the restaurant, online or through the website. Mobile application of shipping lines.
Whether you’re a planner or someone who enjoys playing your vacation by ear, you should absolutely consider booking a number of cruise activities in advance. Discover what’s available before your cruise so you can better prepare for your next trip.
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food reservation
One of the biggest components of any trip is eating. Sure, you can choose the main dining room or the buffet every night. However, if you want to branch out and try one or two of your ships alternative restaurantyou can reserve a spot, even before you step on the train.
If you wait until the reservation starts, you run the risk of being stuck with the earliest or latest dinner time or – worse – out of luck at all. This is especially true if you’re traveling on a newer ship with eateries that aren’t as common elsewhere.
beach excursion
Have you kept an eye on specific coast tours? Lock them up early, especially if you’re embarking on a bucket list journey to a place you might not get a chance to visit again. Take it from me: There are some feelings worse than being inhabited beach excursion the desk tells you “Sorry, but that tour is full.”
Looking at something expensive and not sure you want to pay that much? Here’s a tip: Book in advance. If you change your mind, you can usually cancel 24 to 48 hours in advance (depending on cruise line policy) and get a full refund.
spa treatment
You can wait to reserve spa treatment until you’re on board—unless you’re headed for something special. Do you need to reserve a large number of manicurists for a bachelorette party? Do you want your hair done on a certain day so that it is perfectly groomed for the formal night? Are you yearning for a couple’s massage to celebrate an anniversary? Book your itinerary in advance to ensure there are enough seats.
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If not, you can wait until you cross the runway. On docking days, when people disembark, spas often try to lure people in by offering discounts on treatments received on those days. They may also offer special offers or discounts if you book multiple treatments. These offers are not available in advance.
stage show
Although there are only a few itineraries — Royal Caribbean InternationalNorwegian cruise ship, MSC Cruises And Virgin Trip — requires passengers to book a free seat for nightly entertainment, Royal Caribbean only, NCL and Virgin allow pre-boarding reservations.
For some shows like Royal Caribbean’s comedy show and AquaTheater productions, as well as Norwegian Broadway shows and Virgin Voyages’ dinner theater, reservation is crucial. important. If not, chances are you won’t be able to see them. Although there are many performances on each ride, seating may be limited.
(Tip: If you forget to reserve, arrive 15 minutes in advance, when trains usually release any unclaimed seats, meaning there may be a last-minute spot for you.)
arrange special occasion
Are you celebrating something special on board? If you are in need of anniversary flowers, graduation cakes or birthday decorations for your companion, it is best to order in advance.
If arrangements are not possible online or through the cruise line’s app, contact your travel agent or carrier directly to make sure they know what to expect and what you need to have on hand.
package
All major cruise lines sell packages that can save you money, ease the stress of planning, or both. Some of the most common are eating and drinking wine packas internet package.
The former two are generally a good value for those who drink a lot of soda, coffee or fancy wine, or who want to change their dining experience. The last one is essential for anyone looking to stay connected while at sea. Pre-booking any of these packages can save you some money compared to buying the same packages once aboard your ship.
Less common but still offered are photo packages and wedding package. Pre-booking is not required, but wedding photography packages are available with prior notice only. What they include varies by carrier, but example services might be flowers, photo packages, a ceremony for certain people, and a few romantic amenities in the cabin like chocolate covered strawberries. la and champagne.
bottom line
Cruise lines offer a plethora of add-ons that you can book before you set sail. However, in most cases you should only do so if you are sure that you will save money by booking early or if your trip will be adversely affected if something is not available. for you when you board the plane.
In general, it’s a good idea to book restaurants and shore excursions in advance, as well as any special arrangements you may need. Spa and leisure treatments can often be left on until you board and have a chance to view the daily schedule.
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