Captain Cruise Line

Feature Article

Simple Cruise Etiquette

Don't Forget Your Manners at Home

Finally, a break from life's mundane chores: you're about to go on a cruise! But are you going alone? Believe it or not, no one can answer that question affirmatively.

Even if you're not taking friends of family with you, when you step on board the cruise ship you become part of a temporary community. There are many other people like yourself there, ready to embark on a relaxing holiday. Have we forgotten anything? Well, yes: since you won't be required to cook and wash dishes for the duration of the cruise, we should also include ship staff in that sailing community. Obviously, there are some common rules of decency you need to apply in your interactions on the ship.

You probably find it natural to tip the wait staff at a restaurant or the maid at a hotel. The same staff can be found on the cruise ship, so don't let the sea or ocean drown that habit. It's true that you've already paid for the cruise, but put yourself in the staff's shoes for a moment: a tip is a nice gesture and it will be appreciated as such. After all, those people do more than just serve food and clean rooms - their smiles and politeness will make you enjoy the cruise even more, and that deserves some thanks.

Luckily, you don't have to tip the fellow passengers too. However, each cruiser can contribute to the general pleasant atmosphere on the ship. Things like cutting in line or having a conversation during a theatre show are obviously disturbing, but there are also less overt acts of uncooperative interaction that you should avoid. It won't hurt if you observe the dining dress code, for instance. If you must by all means dress casually, you can at least choose the informal restaurant on the ship, or order room service. Some of the other people might feel offended by your non-compliant apparel, and you're the only one who can do something about that.

While keeping in mind these guidelines, don't forget to relax. Sharing a boat with several hundred other people can make you feel uneasy even if you're not agoraphobic. On the other hand, to the other travellers, you yourself are part of the "other people", so you might account for their own uneasiness. Some kind words and friendly smiles will help everyone relax and enjoy the vacation.

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