Cruise life New to cruising

How to Avoid Any First-Time Cruise Mistakes

If you've not been on a cruise holiday before you may feel a little at sea. At P&O Cruises, we're here to help you navigate in the right direction and enjoy a hassle-free holiday like no other.

5 min 24 Apr 2023

Editorial Team

Author
paddle board on the beach, close up of standing legs and paddle

Preparing for your cruise holiday

1. Accommodation

Sea view or Balcony? Inside cabin or Suite? Close to the atrium or tucked away in a quiet spot? If you're a first-time cruiser, you may be wondering how to pick the best cabin for you. To help you make the right decision, we've highlighted the main aspects to consider here.

2. Packing

One of the unique joys of a cruise holiday is that you'll visit many dream destinations in just one trip and only have to unpack once. But with so many ship venues, entertainment options and days ashore, you might be wondering what you should take with you? 

 

Whatever cruise holiday you've in mind, out top packing tips article will help you avoid any potential cruise mistakes - see here.

Couple sitting on a rock and smiling with their backs to a mountainous coastline

3. Going ashore

You’ll normally arrive at each destination early in the morning and have the best part of a day to discover the sights at your leisure, sometimes seeing a different side of a destination as the sun sets. But where is the port in relation to the must-see sights? Perhaps you want to get off the usual tourist trail? Wonder no more. You’ve no need to worry about missing out on the local highlights and hidden gems. Once you’ve booked, we’ll send out digital port guides full of local recommendations. We also offer a huge range of shore experiences (and if you’re delayed on a shore experience, we won’t set sail without you!).

 

Want to know more about the shore experiences offered by local experts partnered with P&O Cruises? See here.

4. Tailor your trip 

You’re not on your cruise holiday yet (boo!) – that doesn’t mean you can’t dream about or even start planning those incredible days away though (hooray!). Get ahead of the rest and avoid missing out on preferred activities. Once you’ve booked your cruise holiday you can tailor your time away even before you set sail.

 

At my.pocruises.com you can book shore experiences, spa treatments, drinks packages and a selection of speciality dining venues (subject to change) months before your holiday begins, so you can rest assured your days away are planned to perfection and you’ve even more to look forward to.

Two people on the front of a cruise ship infront of mountains

5. The only possible cruise mistake… 

Is of course not sailing away on a P&O Cruises holiday! Your welcoming ship, the delightful destinations, friendly service and exceptional dining and entertainment options – there’s nothing quite like it. Don’t just take our word for it though – find out about the experiences of other first-time P&O Cruises guests here.