First-Time Cruise Boarding Checklist: 6 Things to Do Right Away

Sharon Fisher’s first priority for new cruisers is safety: find the muster station as soon as possible and review any required safety information. Some ships may ask passengers to watch a safety video after boarding, and Fisher also recommends learning where life jackets are located before they are needed.

This step is practical because it helps passengers understand emergency procedures early, before the ship’s activities and amenities become a distraction.

Once luggage arrives, Fisher recommends unpacking instead of leaving bags piled around a compact cruise cabin. That makes the room easier to use and helps avoid returning later to a bed covered with belongings.

She also advises meeting the room steward or attendant, who typically helps keep the cabin clean, provides extra towels and toiletries, and can arrange fixes for broken items. Fisher says knowing the steward has helped her in the past, including when she locked herself out of her room.

Fisher recommends walking the entire ship early to learn what is available and where key areas are located. She says this can help passengers find amenities, choose preferred spots in theaters and bars, locate the gym, and avoid getting lost later.

New cruisers should also figure out how the ship shares important updates. Depending on the cruise line, information may come through a daily newsletter, loudspeaker announcements, a mobile app, or a combination of those channels.

Fisher says food is one of the best parts of cruising, but passengers should learn the available options early. Most ships have several places to eat, including options that are free and others that cost extra.

She recommends checking which choices fit personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Because buffets can get crowded, she also looks for alternative seating areas by the pool or on an upper deck ahead of time.