
Originally Posted by
greenidlady1
I've been on a couple. I see you don't want to reveal which line but it makes a difference IMO. Your first day is typical embarkation. You are basically showing your passport, tickets, license, etc. to the agents checking in your luggage and getting on the ship. You won't get your luggage till later that afternoon before you actually leave port. They also do a drill before leaving port. You have to find your life jacket in your room and go to your assigned station on the deck. It's aggravating, you have to get in a line back to back with people in front of a boat hanging off the ship. The people in front and behind me I don't think had showered in a week prior to this lovely event. But they prepare you just in case something were to happen. Leaving port is kind of a big deal they have a party, play music and such.
You can book excursions (activities at the ports of call you visit) that evening or the next day. You can also get beverage plans, etc.
I remember being a little dizzy and feeling off balance as the ship was turning around and we were heading out to sea. But it's nothing a little champagne won't cure at the champagne bar. There is no shortage of alcohol on these ships.
The rest of the time till you reach your port-of-call (usually not the next but the day after) you're just hanging out and getting acquainted with things. You usually have a maid and assigned people to take care of you at your meals. Most of the people that work the cruise ship are from different countries all over the world which makes for some interesting conversation if you've ever been curious about different countries and their cultures. You'll also likely have tablemates at dinner. Most cruiselines also have an on-going buffet throughout the day and evening. The buffet is more casual while they prefer you to dress for dinner. And by dress I mean just something decent not walking around in your swimsuit top, shorts and flip-flops. Our cruise had midnight chocolate buffets and such. You'll gain a couple of pounds if you don't take advantage of the gym. They also have one formal night in which you can meet the Captain and get formal photos made.
The ship usually has a wide variety of bars and entertainment from shows to your silly Newlywed game. There is always something to do or not do if you prefer like I did most days. I found the rocking of the ship to be sedating. My ex got sea sick but they had a bracelet he got which seemed to help.
Sigh.....just enjoy yourself, bring your camera and take pictures. You can pm me if you have more questions. Have fun and let us know how it goes.
Bookmarks