Cruise Trends

I recently received an email from Cruise Critic detailing several different trends, based on guest feedback/reviews and comments on their website. To say it was a bit disturbing is putting it mildly. We have probably all seen some of these scenarios as we’ve cruised, both on water and dry land. I’ve decided to share some of them here, in hopes that none of us repeat them. I understand it’s our vacation. We feel entitled. However…

…Mind Your Manners
1. The elevators on a ship are small. Wait for the elevator to empty of current guests, before barging in. Packing in an elevator can produce unwanted results, including stepped on toes, spilled drinks/food and more. We are all in a hurry to get to our preferred deck but patience is a virtue and needs to be exercised by all on board. Also, stepping out to let a guest at the back of the elevator exit comfortably is common courtesy – same as at home. Worse case scenarios are if you use a scooter or on disembarkation day when the elevators are almost constantly full.

2. Alcohol may present obnoxious behavior. Especially since cruise ships offer special drink programs. Cruises are well-known as floating frat parties or pre-wedding celebrations. Know your limits. And don’t be surprised when you see the bar bill on your sail account!

3. Buffets are a great way to select the foods you like or would like to try. But, once again, there is a code of etiquette that should be followed. Take a look at the line, and start at the end of it. It usually begins where the plates are located. Always use the utensils provided in the pan (not the other pan!) to place the food on your plate, for sanitary reasons. If the utensil is missing, just ask for it to be replaced. It’s never OK to use your fingers! There’s no need to pile up your plate or fill several plates on your first pass. A buffet is just that…the opportunity to go back and get a clean plate as many times as you wish to enjoy your favorite offerings. If, for instance, you’ve forgotten the butter and cut the line, do so with an apology, grab the butter and then step back out. Not all buffet lines move quickly. Remember: There’s always the option of eating in the MDR (Main Dining Room).

4. People love to chat you up. In the elevator, at the bar, in the hallway, at the pool, in the restaurants. Generally, it’s a fun way to enjoy their company if only for a few moments. The most often asked questions are, “where are you from” and “what excursions are you taking”. Try to avoid controversial topics such as level of guest membership and service as well as politics and religion. It’s amazing how people feel free to share their political opinions with us when we say we are from the Washington, D.C. area. Better to talk about the wonderful experiences on board. And, if you can’t say anything nice, then it’s better to say nothing at all. At least that’s what I learned as a child.

5. In this world, there are many who enjoy a smoke. And many who don’t. If you are in the first category, it’s important to only smoke in the approved areas/decks. And never throw your cigarette butt overboard! If you are in the second category, avoid those areas. They can be determined by the ashtrays on the tables and the posted signs. Don’t sit on deck or stand near a table with an ashtray and complain about second-hand smoke. There are more places on board that offer a smoke-free area than there are smoking areas. Remember that many enjoy this habit, just as many enjoy alcoholic beverages. (See item 2 above.)

6. Finding an available deck chair on a crowded ship can be like finding a needle in a haystack. Many people go out first thing in the morning to claim their chair by leaving a towel or some other personal item on it. Please be kind. If you are done with your chair, remove the towel so others can enjoy it.

7. Parents please control your children. We are all on the ship for fun and relaxation. Unsupervised children can be a hazard to others. Running and raucous behavior is not pleasant to other guests. There are children’s programs on board that may be used. They supply supervision and activities suitable for various age groups. Know where your children are at all times. Many ships have serenity areas that do not allow children. These can be a haven for adults who wish a bit more serene atmosphere. Also, please do not allow your children in the hot tubs! This can be very dangerous to their health. These are NOT small wading or swimming pools! Children should be kept to a semblance of a schedule for meals and bedtime. There’s little worse than a cranky, hungry or tired child…unless it’s a cranky, hungry or tired adult!

I’m sure there’s many more behaviors that could be discussed here, but I think you get the picture. For more enlightenment on the do’s and don’ts of cruising etiquette, please visit Cruise Critic at cruisecritic.com.

May your day be filled with
good thoughts,
kind people,
and happy moments.