Planning your first voyage can be overwhelming, but these cruise tips are designed to help you navigate the high seas with the grace of a Duchess. Whether you’re heading to the Caribbean or Alaska, mastering these cruise tips ensures you spend more time relaxing and less time stressing.
Stepping aboard your first cruise is nothing short of magical—endless ocean views, world-class dining, and the excitement of discovering new destinations. But before you set sail, there are a few insider cruise tips that will take your experience from good to exceptional.
From packing smart to maximizing onboard perks, I’ve gathered all the must-know strategies to help you navigate your maiden voyage like a seasoned cruiser. And yes, there’s even a little pie involved—because what’s luxury without a touch of indulgence? 🍽️🚢
The Royal Checklist: 10 Cruise Tips Every First-Time Cruiser Should Know
Cruise Tips Every First-Time Cruiser Should Know With Some PIE by Duchess DJ Love, Author, Blogger, Influencer, & Show Host of Gallivanting Like A Royal
Welcome to Gallivanting Like A Royal where we discuss travel inspiration and living a royal lifestyle. In this episode, we have exciting stories to share about our recent cruise adventures. From the sunny shores of the Caribbean to the towering glaciers in Alaska, we share tips to uncover the best journey. Sailing onward to the picturesque port stops of the Greek Islands and other magical destinations, listen to our expert cruiser, Shannon Sellers. She loves traveling and cruising is her favorite way to see the world.
🥧 The “PIE” Approach to Cruising
- P – Preparation: Pre-book your excursions and specialty dining.
- I – Inspiration: Allow the ocean views to reset your mindset.
- E – Experience: Indulge in the luxury of doing nothing at all.
While aboard the ship, you receive the floating hotel resort experience taking you from one amazing port to the next while filling your evenings with Broadway-style shows, live music, art galleries and auctions, gourmet dining, and the finest spa pampering imaginable. Are you ready to book a cruise? This episode prepares you for the ultimate cruise. You will learn tips and techniques to enjoy your next cruise with ease, comfort, and luxury.
Expert Cruise Tips for Onboard Savings
What goes well with cruising? How about some PIE? The amazing Austin J Haines joins me this Sunday, September 10th on my show, Gallivanting Like A Royal, to share a Poetic Inspiration Experience with my cruise expert, Shannon Sellers. We discuss the top 10 things a first-time cruiser should know prior to sailing and lessons learned from years of cruising. Austin is a speaker, author, mentor and if you are seeking a life reset, then join him in Costa Rica for the Midlife Oasis Retreat. If you want to cruise, then join Shannon or Duchess DJ on one of our next cruises.
Cruise Tips 101: 10 Things Every First-Time Cruiser Should Know
Ahoy, Sailor:
- Pre-Book activities before you leave home. …
- Plan to arrive at your departure city a day or more before the cruise. ..
- Pack a carry-on bag. …
- Switch your cell phone to airplane mode. …
- Don’t assume the cruise is all-inclusive. …
- Pace yourself. …
- Understand automatic gratuities. …
- Watch the clock. …
- Don’t overschedule yourself. …
- Prepare for motion sickness. ..
Bon voyage!
Royal Cruise Tips and Insights
1. The “Sample Cruise” Strategy (New for 2026)
In 2026, cruise lines are finally putting their newest, biggest ships on short 3-to-4-day itineraries. Historically, these “weekend” cruises were reserved for older ships, but that has changed.
- Royal Insight: “If you’re a first-timer, don’t feel like you have to commit to 7 days. In 2026, you can experience the absolute best of Royal Caribbean or Norwegian on a ‘sample’ weekend voyage. It’s the perfect way to test your ‘sea legs’ without the long-term commitment.”
2. “Zebra-Striping” & The Low-ABV Trend
Wellness is a massive theme for 2026. Many cruisers are now practicing “Zebra-Striping”—alternating between an alcoholic cocktail and a high-end, zero-proof mocktail to stay hydrated and enjoy the next day’s port.
- Royal Insight: “Ask the bartender about their ‘Sessionable’ menu. Most 2026 sailings now offer sophisticated botanical mocktails that are just as royal as the champagne, but keep you ready for those early-morning shore excursions.”
3. Smart Tech: Beyond the App
By 2026, wearable tech is the standard. Whether it’s the Princess Medallion or a smart band, these devices do more than just unlock your door.
- Royal Insight: “Wear your tech! In 2026, your wearable device can help the crew find you anywhere on the ship to deliver a fresh drink or pizza. It’s the ultimate ‘Royal Service’—you don’t find the food; the food finds you.”
4. The Rise of the “Private Beach Club”
Cruise lines are shifting away from public ports in favor of massive, exclusive private islands like Royal Caribbean’s expansion in Nassau or NCL’s improvements to Great Stirrup Cay.
- Royal Insight: “When booking for 2026, look for itineraries that include a ‘Private Beach Club’ day. These are curated, high-end environments where your drink package usually still works, and the service is more personalized than a crowded public beach.”
2026 Royal Cruise Tips Trends: Theme Nights, Tech, & The Great Drink Debate
Cruising in 2026 has evolved into a curated lifestyle experience. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the industry is on track for its fourth consecutive year of record growth, with passenger volumes projected to surpass 37 million. To help you gallivant like royalty amidst this booming popularity, here are the latest cruise tips for navigating modern amenities.
🎭 Theme Nights & Specialty Dining: Pack Like a Pro
In 2026, theme nights have moved beyond “Formal Night” to include immersive, era-specific parties like “Totally 90s” and “Silent White Hot Night.”
- Royal Insight: Always check your cruise line’s app 2–4 weeks before departure to see specific themes. If you’re planning on booking Specialty Dining for a romantic night away from the crowds, make sure you have all the cruise-approved accessories from my Amazon Storefront—like magnetic hooks for your outfits or cruise-safe power strips—to keep your cabin organized while you get ready.
📶 The WiFi Revolution: Powered by Starlink
Forget the slow speeds of the past. By 2026, almost every major line has upgraded to Starlink Maritime, providing land-like speeds at sea.
- The Reality Check: While faster, it’s pricier. Expect to pay between $20 and $35 per day.
- Money-Saving Tip: Look for “Multi-Device” packages if you’re traveling with a group; it’s often cheaper than buying separate plans for each person.
🥂 The Drink Package: Is It Still Worth It in 2026?
This remains the number one question for new cruisers. For 2026, many lines have increased prices, making the “break-even” point higher than ever.
- The Math: Most packages now cost $70–$125 per day. To make it worth it, you typically need to consume 6–9 alcoholic drinks every single day.
- The 2026 Hack: Watch for “All-In” bundles during your booking process. These often combine WiFi, gratuities, and drinks for a single discounted price that is much better than buying them à la carte.
Finding Your Cruise Vibe for 2026
Choosing the right cruise line is like finding the perfect pair of shoes—it has to fit your style and budget perfectly. As we look ahead to 2026, cruise lines have more distinct personalities than ever.
Here’s a breakdown of which lines are ruling the seas for every type of traveler:
The 2026 Cruise Line Vibe Check
| Traveler Type | Recommended 2026 Line | The “Royal” Insider Tip |
| Partyers | Virgin Voyages, Carnival | Virgin is adults-only with a “festival at sea” vibe. Carnival is the “Fun Ship” with constant high-energy activities. |
| Senior Citizens | Holland America, Viking Ocean | These lines focus on classic luxury, enrichment programs, and a calmer, more refined atmosphere. |
| Adventure Seekers | Royal Caribbean, Ponant | Royal has onboard thrills (flowriders, zip lines), while Ponant offers expedition-style luxury to remote locales. |
| Families with Kids | Disney, Royal Caribbean | Disney offers unmatched character immersion, while Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class ships are essentially floating theme parks. |
| Solo Travelers | Norwegian (NCL), Virgin | NCL pioneered studio cabins and solo lounges. Virgin offers great “no single supplement” deals for social singles. |
| Thrifty Sailors | MSC Cruises, Carnival | MSC often has “Kids Sail Free” and some of the lowest per-night rates (starting as low as $29 on some routes). |
| Foodie Lovers | Oceania, Celebrity | Oceania is famous for the “Finest Cuisine at Sea.” Celebrity offers modern, Michelin-star quality dining and 3D dinner shows. |
Deep Dive: The “Foodie” Experience
For those who cruise to eat, 2026 is bringing more specialty dining than ever. Many lines now partner with world-renowned chefs to create menus that rival land-based gourmet restaurants.Gourmet New York Dinner Cruise | Excursions | Scenic Cruises | New Jersey | New York City | Virgin Gifts / Vouchers$264.00 Opens in a new window Virgin Gifts 2 Tickets for Gourmet Dinner Cruise – Chicago$459.00 Opens in a new window Virgin Gifts 2 Tickets for Gourmet Boston Dinner Cruise – Boston$433.99 Opens in a new window
- Oceania Cruises: Often cited as the ultimate foodie choice, they feature menus designed by legendary Chef Jacques Pépin and include all specialty dining in the fare.
- Virgin Voyages: They have famously scrapped the buffet in favor of 20+ unique eateries, ranging from experimental test kitchens to high-end Korean BBQ.
- Celebrity Cruises: Known for modern luxury, their “Le Petit Chef” experience uses 3D projection mapping to entertain you while you eat.
The “Thrifty” Strategy: How to Save in 2026
If you are a “thrifty sailor,” timing is everything. Look for Transatlantic crossings in the spring or fall. These “repositioning” cruises are often the best value, sometimes costing as little as $30–$60 per night because they have more sea days.
Royal Tip: If you’re on a budget, MSC Cruises and Carnival consistently offer the most “bang for your buck,” especially if you book an interior cabin and focus on the included activities.
Princess Cruises 2026: Why the ‘Love Boat’ is the Ultimate Voyager’s Choice
Princess Cruises is the ultimate choice for travelers seeking refined elegance and world-class service without the high-energy “theme park” noise of other mega-ships. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, Princess shines with its MedallionClass technology, featuring a wearable device that effortlessly unlocks your stateroom door and allows you to order a cocktail to your exact location on deck.
For 2026, the value is in their Princess Plus and Premier bundles, which offer massive savings by grouping high-speed Starlink WiFi, daily gratuities, and premium beverages into one daily price. Whether you’re indulging in the legendary pizza at Alfredo’s or enjoying a “Movies Under the Stars” night, Princess delivers a “Love Boat” experience that feels both classic and cutting-edge.
Cruising Tips 2026 FAQ
Is Starlink WiFi available on all cruises in 2026? Yes, most major lines (Princess, Royal Caribbean, NCL) have fully transitioned to Starlink Maritime, providing land-like speeds. Expect to pay roughly $20–$30 per day.
Which cruise line is best for a 2026 Alaska voyage? Princess Cruises remains the #1 choice for Alaska, offering over 180 sailings in 2026, including their new Signature Sale deals.
Do I need a drink package in 2026? If you drink more than 6-8 beverages (including premium coffees and sodas) a day, the package is usually worth it. For 2026, Princess Plus is the standout value for covering drinks, WiFi, and tips.
Meet the Creator: Wealth, Wanderlust, and a Royal Mission of TravelTude 
I use my background in commercial banking and investment to find the ‘Alpha’ in travel—maximizing luxury while protecting your legacy.
Strategies for a Royal Money Mindset
Before I began gallivanting across continents, I spent years mastering the world of finance. I have an MBA and a BS in Finance specializing in Commercial Banking and Investments. Additionally, I have experience as a former licensed securities trader. I don’t just look for ‘pretty’ travel—I look for value, legacy, and wealth-building opportunities. 
Many of you know me as Duchess DJ Love, your guide to luxury travel. However, there is a foundation of grit that drives everything I do. Beyond the bucket-list itineraries, expertise plays a crucial role in my journey. Specifically, my background in finance allows me to look for value and legacy in every trip. As a result, I am able to help you leap from passenger to protagonist in your own life.
Dementia Caregiving Experience Traveling the World
My journey hasn’t always been easy. For a decade, I was a dedicated caregiver for my mom, Lady Lexie.
Undoubtedly, this experience taught me more about resilience than any boardroom ever could. Furthermore, this unique blend of financial authority and real-world caregiving inspired the creation of my Travel and Wealth Resources. As a result, my goal is to empower women to master their money mindset and help them turn their passions into profitable side hustles. 
🤱 The Caregiver’s Compass: Traveling with Grace and Strategy
Many caregivers believe that their world has to shrink when a loved one receives a dementia diagnosis. I’m here to tell you that with the right TravelTude, the world can still be yours to explore. My decade of caregiving for my mom, Lady Lexie, taught me that travel isn’t just a luxury for caregivers—it’s a vital form of restoration.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, start with these three “Royal Rules” for caregiving on the road:
- The 50% Rule: Plan for half of what you think you can accomplish. This leaves room for the “divine pauses” and the extra time your loved one may need to adjust to new surroundings.
- Routine is Your Anchor: Even in a 5-star hotel in Paris, keep the “Home Base” rituals. Bring a familiar pillowcase or a favorite playlist to keep the environment grounded.
- Stewardship of Self: You cannot pour from an empty passport. Using my Budget Traveler’s Blueprint strategies, you can find affordable ways to bring a companion or hire local support, ensuring you get the rest you need while abroad.
📚 Deepen Your Journey
For a comprehensive roadmap, I’ve dedicated specific resources to this mission:
- The Specialized Guide: Navigating the World: Traveling with a Loved One with Dementia provides field-tested strategies for safety and meaningful connection.
- Daily Support: Use the TravelTude Journal to document the small wins and moments of gratitude that sustain you.
- Free Resource: Don’t forget to claim your free TravelTude Too eBook below—it includes a special section on maintaining a mindset of peace during complex travel days.
Today, I am a Luxury Travel Business Strategist, UGC Creator, and Media Storyteller. Whether I’m exploring all 50 U.S. states, checking off another country, or cruising the high seas, my mission is to help you leap from passenger to protagonist in your own life.
Ready to build your own royal empire? 
Shop my guides. 
Join the Inner Circle: Subscribe for Exclusive Access
Let’s wander with wealth and gallivant with grace. The legacy starts now! 
Conclusion: Your Legacy Starts with One Step
Join the Royal Community
Are you ready to transform your travel dreams into a legacy-rich reality? Are you looking for expert itineraries? Do you need financial strategies for luxury living? Or perhaps you enjoy heartwarming stories from the road? If so, I invite you to join our growing community of royal explorers. Follow along for daily inspiration. Access exclusive creator tools. Gain first-hand insights that prove you can see the world with both style and substance. Let’s share the love, one heart at a time. Stay connected across all my platforms for daily adventures and wealth insights:
- Facebook: Follow my main updates and community discussions on my three Facebook Pages.
- Instagram: Get a visual look at my travels and lifestyle through my two Instagram accounts.
- YouTube: Watch cinematic travel stories and financial strategy deep-dives on my two YouTube channels.
- Professional & Creative: Connect for business on LinkedIn, find travel inspiration on Pinterest, or see my full directory via Linktree.
- Caregiver & Travel UGC Creator | GallivantingLikeARoyal.com ( Duchess DJ Love)
- Pinterest: DuchessDjLove
- Linktree: Duchess DJ love
- Other Blogs:
- Amazon Influencer Storefront
- Curated Creator Tools & Luxury Essentials
- Step inside my Amazon Influencer Storefront. Discover the exact gear I use to capture cinematic travel stories. Find the luxury essentials that make global exploration seamless. From professional photography kits to field-tested travel must-haves, every item is hand-selected. These selections help you travel with purpose, precision, and style.
- Author Bookshelf on Amazon
- The Duchess DJ Love Collection
- Travel & Mindset Mastery: These works focus on the spiritual and mental side of exploring the world.
- TravelTude: A 30-Day Trip Tips Gratitude Devotional: A guide to cultivating a positive, grateful mindset while on the road.
- TravelTude Journal: A companion for travelers to record their own reflections and gratitude during their journeys.
- Budget Travel & Financial Strategy: These books draw on your MBA and wealth management background. They teach readers how to experience luxury for less.
- Exploring the World on a Shoestring Budget: Field-tested tips for high-end travel without the high price tag.
- The Budget Traveler’s Blueprint: Strategic planning for affordable global adventures.
- Money Mindset for the Millionaire: Inspirational builders for those seeking financial empowerment and freedom.
- The Art of Wealth: A deep dive into making your money work for you.
- Specialized Caregiving & Compassion: Books that offer practical help for unique travel challenges.
- Navigating the World: Traveling with a Loved One with Dementia: This is a niche guide. It provides essential strategies for caregivers. These strategies help them to travel safely and meaningfully with dementia patients.
- Creator & Storytelling Tools: Resources designed to help modern bloggers and influencers build their own brands.
About Duchess DJ Love
Duchess DJ Love is a Wealth Strategist, Dedicated Caregiver, and Frequent World Traveler who believes that luxury is a mindset and stewardship is a lifestyle. With an MBA and a background as a licensed securities trader, she brings “Wealth Wisdom” to the world of travel, showing others how to experience the royal treatment without compromising their financial legacy.
Having spent a decade navigating the world alongside her mother, Lady Lexie, through a dementia diagnosis, she is a leading voice for caregivers who refuse to let their worlds shrink. As the creator of TravelTude and author of The Budget Traveler’s Blueprint, she empowers a global community of Royal Explorers to leap from passenger to protagonist in their own lives. When she isn’t checking off her next country or all 50 U.S. states, you can find her sharing prophetic insights and strategic travel tips across the Wanderlust & Wealth Wisdom platform.
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