If you’re planning to set sail in 2025, you’re not alone. With cruise ships sailing at full capacity again and new vessels entering service, it’s more important than ever to plan smart. In this guide, we’re sharing our best cruise tips and hacks for 2025—to help you save money, avoid first-timer mistakes, and have a smoother, stress-free vacation at sea.

1. Never Fly In on the Same Day Your Cruise Departs

One of the most critical cruise planning tips: don’t fly in on embarkation day. Delayed flights, missed connections, and lost luggage are far more common than you think—and if you’re not in the port city when your ship sails, you’re out of luck (and out of pocket).

Always arrive at least one day early before your cruise departure, whether you’re flying or driving. Not only will this buffer reduce stress, but it also gives you the chance to enjoy your embarkation port city and start your vacation early.

2. Don’t Cruise Without Travel Insurance

This one’s non-negotiable. Cruise travel insurance is a must in 2025. Cruises are expensive, and anything from cancellations to emergency medical treatment onboard could cost you thousands.

Choose a policy that specifically covers cruise travel, including medical evacuation at sea, itinerary changes, missed ports, and trip delays. It’s affordable peace of mind—and essential in today’s unpredictable travel climate.

3. Use the Cruise App and Book Activities in Advance

Every major cruise line now offers a dedicated mobile app—and it’s a powerful tool before and during your trip. Our advice? Download the cruise line’s app and book everything early, including:

Shore excursions
Specialty restaurants
Entertainment shows
Spa treatments

Some of these sell out weeks before embarkation. The cruise app also helps you check daily schedules, track spending, chat with other guests, and in some cases, even order food and drinks from anywhere on the ship.

4. Book Wi-Fi, Drink Packages & Dining Early

David enjoying a drink from the drinks package he booked

Cruise lines frequently run pre-cruise discounts on internet packages, beverage packages, and specialty dining. Booking early can save you up to 40% compared to onboard pricing.

Here’s a pro tip: keep checking prices after you book. If the price drops, cancel and rebook at the lower rate. Some cruise lines make this easy online; others require a call. But it’s one of the simplest ways to save money before your cruise even begins.

5. Beat the Crowds with Smart Cruise Planning

Cruise ships in 2025 are busier than ever, especially on newer and larger vessels. That means more lines, crowded decks, and packed venues. To avoid the rush:

Visit pools and hot tubs early or late
Use port days to enjoy onboard facilities (they’re quieter when most guests are ashore)
Schedule spa treatments on port days for better prices and a more relaxing experience

Planning around the crowds can dramatically improve your overall cruise experience.

6. First-Time Cruiser? Do Your Homework

Not all cruise lines are the same. Some are party-centric, others are family-focused, and some offer ultra-luxury experiences. If you’re a first-time cruiser, do your research before booking:

Match the cruise line to your travel style (relaxing, active, luxury, budget)
Research the ship’s features and amenities
Choose an itinerary that suits your interests and comfort level

Also, prepare for seasickness, just in case. Bring medication, and choose a midship, low-deck cabin—the most stable spot onboard.

7. Review Cruise Line Policies Before You Pack

What you could bring five years ago might be banned today. Most cruise lines now ban surge-protected power strips, steamers, and even some snacks and drinks. Read our full cruise packing list here for everything we recommend bringing.

Check your cruise line’s prohibited items list before packing. Rules vary by cruise brand, and the last thing you want is to lose an expensive item at embarkation security.

See: Can You Bring an Iron on a Cruise? Rules, Restrictions, and Alternatives Explained

8. Check-In Early for the Best Boarding Time

Cruise lines now offer online check-in through their apps or websites. Check in as soon as it opens—often 45 to 90 days before sailing. Early check-in gives you:

Earlier boarding group times
Shorter wait at the terminal
More time to enjoy the ship on embarkation day

Some cruise lines even let you choose your embarkation window, so don’t delay.

9. Watch for Price Drops Before Final Payment

Before your cruise’s final payment date, do a dummy booking online and compare the price with what you paid. If it’s cheaper:

Some cruise lines will match the lower fare or issue onboard credit
You could cancel and rebook—even after losing a deposit, it might still save you more

We’ve personally saved hundreds by monitoring cruise fare changes—definitely worth a look.

10. Fix Onboard Problems Before You Disembark

If something’s wrong on board—your cabin, food, service, or billing—report it immediately. Don’t wait until you’re home to file a complaint. Guest services can fix issues quickly while you’re still onboard.

Document everything (names, times, what was said) so you have proof if you need to escalate things later. You paid good money for your cruise—get what you’re owed.

11. Bring Cash for Ports and Tipping

Ben at a local market — *Bring cash for local markets and snacks*

ATM machines on cruise ships charge hefty fees and use terrible exchange rates. Bring US dollars for Caribbean cruises or euros for European ports.

You’ll need cash for:

Tipping tour guides and drivers
Small souvenir purchases
Local markets and snacks

Many places still accept cards, but a small stash of cash always comes in handy.

12. Avoid the Buffet on Embarkation Day

We get it—you’re hungry. But the embarkation day buffet is chaos. Head instead to the main dining room, a specialty venue, or a lesser-known café. Fewer crowds, better service, and a calmer start to your cruise.

Ask a crew member what’s open—they often know about secret spots most guests miss.

13. Pack the Right Chargers—But Not Extension Cords

Cabins vary widely in plug socket availability. Some modern ships have multiple USB ports and international plugs, while older ships are lacking.

Pack:

A USB charging hub
Long USB cables for hard-to-reach sockets
International plug adapters

But do not bring surge protectors or extension cords—most cruise lines ban them for safety reasons.

14. Book Cruises During Off-Peak Months

For cheaper fares and fewer crowds, aim to cruise in:

May
Early June
November
Early December

Avoid school holidays and summer break, when prices surge and ships are packed. Also, look for no-fly cruises—sailing from a port near you cuts out airfare, saving both money and stress.

15. More Cruise Money-Saving Hacks

Let’s wrap it up with our favorite budget cruise tips:

Book last-minute deals (if you’re flexible)
Choose an inside, interior view or guaranteed cabin for the lowest prices
Sail on older ships—they often offer amazing value. See our guide to Royal Caribbean ships.
Consider repositioning cruises (like transatlantic sailings such as our 2023 Transatlantic Cruise on Carnival) for unique experiences at lower fares

Cruising can be affordable if you know where to look and how to plan.

Final Thought

With cruise travel evolving so quickly, 2025 is the year to plan smarter. From cruise insurance and pre-booking strategies to choosing the right cabin and saving big on extras, these cruise tips and hacks are here to help you cruise like a pro.

🎥 Watch our full video for even more insights and tips:

15 Must-Know Cruise Tips for 2025: Save Money, Avoid Mistakes & Cruise Smarter