Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Embarking on a Cruise? Avoid This Faux Pas for a Smooth Sailing
Millions of Britons are drawn to the allure of cruises, with over two million British and Irish vacationers projected to embark on a voyage this year. They represent a part of the 32 million cruise travellers globally in 2023, all seeking leisure on vessels equipped with entertainment, sun decks, and swimming pools. But before you set sail, brush up on cruise etiquette to avoid being ship-shamed.
British Cruisers’ Favorite Destinations
2023 was a banner year for British cruise devotees. The Mediterranean emerged as the premier destination for British cruisers, attracting about 35% of patrons. Northern Europe followed with 29%, and the Caribbean welcomed 12%.
The One Activity to Avoid on a Cruise Ship
However, one beloved British pastime is heavily discouraged aboard cruise ships, a revelation that might surprise those preparing for a summer getaway. Unacceptable conduct can resonate throughout the vessel. Considering the enclosed environment, maintaining decorum while at sea is advisable. But what to avoid?
Karaoke Caution
Gillian Carmoodie, writing for World of Cruising, cautions that karaoke can be a recipe for trouble on board. Loud warbling can disturb neighboring rooms and incite tension in the hallways.
Cabin Considerations
She notes: “Walls on cruise ships aren’t as soundproof as you’d think. While you are afforded a certain level of privacy, louder activity can translate into surrounding cabins and corridors.”
- Loud music
- Obnoxiously-high frequencies
- Loud noises on the balcony
- Practising what you’ve seen in Basic Instinct
- Turning the TV up to deafening levels
- Hosting impromptu karaoke sessions
“Not the move we’d recommend.”
Cruise Tips for Worry-Free Travel
Carmoodie offers a number of cruise pointers to prevent passengers from becoming the subject of gossip, including abstaining from reserving pool loungers too early.
Poolside Protocol
According to Carmoodie, “reserving” chairs at the crack of dawn is “not cool” and creates an “awkward” situation.
Buffet Behavior
At the buffet, resist the urge to overload plates causing others to stand by longer. “There will always be more of each dish on the way from the kitchen”, so “there’s no need to panic”.
Respecting the Crew
Extending kindness and politeness to the crew members who serve you and ensure your comfort and safety is always a good idea.
Crew Courtesy
As Carmoodie emphasizes, remember that the crew is “not your personal assistants.”
“Snapping you fingers or acting in an entitled fashion is not appreciated. Chances are, while the crew will not react in an untoward manner towards your aggression, other passengers will gladly put you in your place.”
She advises that those who respect crew members “get so much more” from their holiday.