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Marengo, Iowa | cruise experience was Holland America following a week inland in Alaska and the Lurline from Honolulu to San Francisco - we got hyper about captain's formal dinner and packed too much ~ yes, guy needs a jacket and tie but make a decent pair of slacks work with the jacket that can be worn on casual nights, too. Your wife may want to pack her sparkles but they aren't necessary ~ again put together mix and match and some fake jewelry to be respectable, but flat out formal is a waste of money and suitcase space.
casual mix & match ~ too much stuff is the novice traveler's first big mistake and a massive burden you will regret ~ don't be shy about wearing garments 2 or 3 times, if they look clean ~ absolutely nobody will care but you. Do include your FAVORITE walking shoes (boots will tag you, but what the heck, be your own man ~ people will be curious & want to meet you ~ but they really look dorky with Bermuda shorts )
Passports are a MUST ~ they are good for 10 years and invaluable if there is an incident.
Be sure your state room has a safe so you can secure your valuables and just carry the ship's card/key. DO NOT make your wife carry your stuff in a purse/tote bag everywhere!
booking tours on board the ship is way more expensive, but if it is a life's dream to do the tour, better to have it locked in, otherwise, the booths at each port are friendly and helpful and cheaper.
Be respectful of the service staff ~ they work hard and deserve decent tips at the end.
Relax! Get ready to mingle with folks from all over the world ~ listen to their fascinating stories! Big mistake to just hang with your little group the whole time.
Wow! I'm ready to go again! Great memories! Have a wonderful time!
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going on first cruise. have no idea
