10 Things I Do As Soon As I Get On A Cruise Ship

I’ve been on dozens of cruises in my life—4 just this past year alone! It’s become one of my absolute favorite ways to travel, and every experience is as unique as the ship itself.

I remember my first cruise. It felt like stepping into a completely different world—luxury, adventure, and relaxation all wrapped into one. Over the years, I’ve learned the ins and outs, from picking the best stateroom to finding hidden gems on board. But it’s not just about the ship itself; it’s about the freedom. I love the routine of cruising—my personal ritual from the moment I step on board, knowing exactly where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of my time at sea.

This past year, I made it a point to get on four different cruises. Each one was different, but the excitement was the same. Whether it was a tropical getaway or an Alaskan adventure, the thrill of embarking on a new journey never gets old. There’s something so special about being out in the middle of the ocean, waking up each day to new views, new people, and new experiences. The memories are priceless.

Cruising has become more than just a vacation for me. It’s part of the rhythm of my life, a chance to reset, enjoy amazing food, indulge in great entertainment, and always look forward to the next port of call. Every cruise holds its own story, but they all share the joy of discovering new places and making unforgettable memories along the way.

1. Go Straight to the Muster Station

The first thing I do when I step onto the ship is head straight to the muster station. It’s a non-negotiable part of the process, and trust me, it’s something I’ve learned the hard way over the years. The muster drill might not be glamorous, but it’s essential for safety, and it sets the tone for the rest of the cruise. Once I get that out of the way, I can relax and start enjoying the vacation. It’s a quick task, but I always feel better knowing I’ve followed all the necessary steps and am ready for whatever comes next.

2. Head to the Main Dining Room and Pick a Table

After the muster station, I make a beeline for the main dining room. It’s one of my favorite places to be, and I’ve learned that getting there early guarantees a good spot. I always choose a table by the window if I can, so I can watch the ocean as I settle into vacation mode. It’s the perfect spot to begin the culinary experience I’ve been looking forward to. I’ll take my time choosing a table, savoring the atmosphere, knowing this is just the start of a memorable journey ahead.

If I’m alone on the cruise, I want to make sure that I get a nice table by myself rather than getting seated with another couple of a family which is, for me, awkward. If I’m with a friend or family member, I’ll try to find a nice two-seater by a window. Once I find it, I can ask the host for that table every night.

3. Eat Lunch Anywhere Outside of the Buffet

Once I’ve picked my table and settled in, I’m ready for my first meal on board. The buffet is always an option, but I prefer to skip it on the first day and explore other dining venues instead. I’ll grab lunch somewhere outside the main buffet area—whether it’s a casual café or a quieter spot by the pool. It’s a great way to ease into the cruising experience without the rush of crowds. Plus, I love to sit back, relax, and enjoy my meal while taking in the ocean views. It’s the perfect time to soak up the ambiance and ease into vacation mode.

Most ships have free dining options throughout the ship. Small cafes, hamburger shops, pizza, etc.

On Royal Caribbean, you might find Loco Fresh, a mexican restaurant with nachos, burritos, trice, beans, and more.

4. Go to the My StateRoom

After lunch, it’s time to head to my room. I’ve been on enough cruises to know that there’s a certain joy in walking into a freshly made-up room that’s all mine, even if just for a few days. The first thing I do is check out the layout, the view, and the overall vibe. If I’m lucky, I’ve scored a balcony room, and I’m already dreaming of morning coffee with a view. The room is my personal space to unwind and get into cruise mode.

5. Set Up the Room My Way

Once I’ve dropped my bags, I immediately start arranging the room to feel like home. I know exactly where everything should go in a cruise room, based on my experience —my toiletries, my books, and anything else I need for the trip. There’s something comforting about putting everything in its place. Whether it’s adjusting the pillows, setting up a cozy corner by the window, or unpacking my personal items, it’s all about creating an environment that feels just right. It’s my little sanctuary for the next few days, and I want it to feel perfect from the get-go.

6. Wipe Down the Room with Clorox Wipes

Before I even think about relaxing, I give the room a quick wipe-down with Clorox wipes. It’s not about being overly obsessive; it’s more about feeling at ease in my environment. I’m all about creating a fresh, clean space, especially in high-touch areas like the desk, light switches, and remote. It’s a simple step, but it makes a big difference in how I feel once I start settling in. With that done, I can finally kick back and enjoy the space without a second thought.

7. Put My Own Sheets on the Bed

It might sound a bit extreme, but I always bring my own sheets to put on the bed. I’m just a stickler for comfort, and there’s something about using my own that makes the whole room feel more like home. I’m particular about the texture, the softness, and the fit. It’s a small step, but it’s one of those things that makes the biggest difference when it comes to getting cozy. Plus, once the sheets are on, I feel like I’ve truly settled in, ready to kick off the cruise in my perfect space.

8. Unpack and Hang Clothes

After making the bed, it’s time to unpack. I’m not one to leave my suitcase lying around for days, so I immediately start hanging up my clothes and organizing everything. There’s something about unpacking that makes the room feel more like a home base, rather than just a temporary space. Plus, it’s much easier to find what I need when everything is in its place. Hanging clothes, folding items, and tucking away shoes and accessories is all part of the process. Once it’s all done, I can fully relax and enjoy the rest of the cruise without any clutter hanging over me.

I also bring extra foldable hangers.

9. Eat Dinner in the Main Dining Room

By now, I’m fully settled in and ready to enjoy the highlight of the day: dinner in the main dining room. I love the whole experience—the atmosphere, the variety of dishes, and the chance to unwind after a day of exploration. There’s always something exciting about the first dinner on board, and I take my time savoring each course. Whether I’m dining alone or with others, it’s always a moment to reflect on the start of the trip and get excited for what’s ahead. The perfect end to the day before the real fun begins!

10. End the Night with a Show

After a delicious dinner, I make sure to end the night with a show. Whether it’s a Broadway-style performance, a comedian, or live music, it’s the perfect way to round out the evening. I love that feeling of sitting back, surrounded by people, watching an incredible performance, and just soaking in the atmosphere. It’s an experience that sets the tone for the whole trip, and I always look forward to the shows on board. After that, I’m ready to head back to my room, get comfortable, and unwind for the night—recharged and excited for another day at sea.