As longtime cruisers know, early preparation and smart packing are the keys to a more relaxing and enjoyable cruise. Our Essential Cruise Planning Checklist puts insider knowledge in your hands, with the 10 most important tips – plus some bonus ones – to follow when you’re getting ready to take a cruise. Whether it’s your first cruise or your tenth, be sure to check this list – so you can enjoy the stress-free voyage you’ve dreamed of.

1. Be an early bird.
   If your cruise is not embarking from your “home port”, plan to arrive at least 1 day in advance to avoid delays and ensure you feel rested before your trip. And there’s nothing like exploring a new city as the excitement builds before your adventure.

2. Plan for your ports.
   To enhance your experience, look into the local culture and highlights of your destinations. Decide on your must-see attractions in each port. Then plan your days well in advance – including booking your shore excursions, to ensure you don’t miss a thing.

3. Do your research.
   Don’t be afraid to dive into the details. Watch room tour videos online to help you make choices. Read your cruise contract to see what power adaptors you may need, and what is, or not permitted to bring on board.

4. Use a packing list.
   First things first: Check the packing list provided online. Or, if you prefer, make your own – and be sure your passport is #1 on the list. Make sure your expiration date is further than 6 months after your cruise sailing date.

5. Dress to impress… and decompress.
   When packing clothes, strike a balance between practical and “wow.” Pack lightweight, wrinkle-free clothing to ensure your days exploring ports are comfortable. Bring more than one swimsuit so you always have a fresh one. Lastly, consider the ship’s dress code and formal night policies, so you’ll always feel dressed for the occasion.

6. Bring your just-in-case essentials.
   The phrase "better safe than sorry” applies when you’re at sea too. It’s always best to bring what you might need, from antiseptic wipes, over-the-counter medications and band-aids to pen & paper. If you’re prone to losing something – like your sunglasses – bring extra just in case. The retail shops onboard will also have some necessities just in case as well, duty-free.

7. Note your ship’s laundry amenities.
   Seabourn offers wash and press services for your convenience. Taking advantage of them comes with a cost, but the packing space you save can be invaluable. In addition, a complimentary launderette with washers, dryers, laundry soap and ironing facilities are available onboard all of our ships.

8. Don’t let delays get you down.
   On the off chance that your luggage is delayed, you can ensure your embarkation day is still fun filled. Pack a separate bag with items you might need in the first 12 hours, such as medication, a spare outfit & spa/swim wear.

9. Plan to maximize your space.
   To keep your suite clutter-free, bring magnetic hooks to secure hats, jackets, backpacks, pool bags to the walls of your room. This also adds an additional touch of “home” onboard.

10. Say no to motion sickness.
    Be prepared with non-drowsy medication (over the counter or prescription), ginger chews and/or motion sickness wristbands. If rough seas catch you unawares, veteran cruisers also recommend stocking up on green apples from the ship’s dining options.

Bonus tips: Seabourn Insiders Share Their Advice for First-Time Cruisers

We asked our most experienced guests for advice they’d offer to first-time cruisers with Seabourn. We hope their suggestions help you enjoy the most rewarding experience possible.

• Find the best spot for a relaxing day with 180-degree sea views. The aft pool behind The Club on our Ocean ships (Seabourn Sojourn, Seabourn Quest, Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation) can often feel private and secluded.

• Indulge in the suite life. Did you know our complimentary in-room dining is offered 24/7? You can even request to have your dinner served course-by-course in your suite. Start every day with a delicious breakfast on your veranda or delight your appetite with late night snacks and nightcaps.

• Download the Seabourn Source App before you board. It will make your life easier throughout your voyage. Check the app for up-to-the-minute details that help you stay on top of your plans, including:

  • Announcements about the daily schedule and destination details.
  • Dinner menus for the following day – so you can plan for tomorrow’s dinner before you even go to bed and more.

• Customize your voyage with shipboard credit. Many Seabourn promotions include shipboard credit, which can be used toward shore excursions, spa services, onboard boutique shopping, reserve wine packages, bespoke epicurean experiences, Stream Wi-Fi Package powered by Starlink, and more.

• Use today’s cruise to make tomorrow’s special. Already have your next cruise in mind? While enjoying your current cruise, take the opportunity to secure a Future Cruise Credit and onboard savings, plus be among the first to learn about our new promotions. Our onboard Future Cruise Consultants work in tandem with both Travel Advisors and Personal Cruise Consultants to seamlessly and expertly plan your future voyage.

Now that you know all the tips and tricks for taking the perfect cruise, it’s a great time to start planning your next ultra-luxury Seabourn voyage – because it’s never too early to get ready for the experience of a lifetime.