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There is something special about boarding a cruise ship and knowing exactly how you will spend your days at sea. We asked avid cruisers to share their favorite cruise traditions, those personal touches they add to every itinerary, no matter the ship or destination. 

From savoring quiet mornings on the balcony to treating themselves to a special meal and cocktail, these are the time-tested cruise rituals seasoned travelers swear by. 

Whether it is your first voyage or your fifteenth, you are sure to find inspiration here for your next sailing.

Fun Things Avid Cruisers Always Do on a Cruise

1. Dine at a Specialty Restaurant

Seasoned cruisers often treat themselves to at least one dinner in a specialty restaurant, where the food and ambiance set the experience apart from the main dining room. Popular options include the bustling hibachi (teppanyaki) experience, where chefs cook right at your table, and upscale steakhouse restaurants.

Some cruisers book these dinners for embarkation night while others save the splurge for a special evening at sea.

While evenings at specialty dining venues were mentioned often, some additional interesting things that some pro cruisers do is opt to eat in a specialty restaurant for lunch on boarding day. Others shared that they have started a new tradition of ordering a lobster (at an upcharge) in the main dining room on the final night of the cruise.

2. Have a Special Embarkation Day Ritual

From the moment they step on board, experienced cruisers establish traditions that set the tone. One cruiser hops onto the deck and exclaims “I made it,” while another always buys a new “walking on the boat” shirt and takes a first-day photo.

Embarkation day drinks are a cruise ritual for many. From a “fun ship” cocktail in honor of a loved one to the classic Bloody Mary or mimosa, cruisers don’t miss an opportunity to raise a glass to the journey ahead.

These small rituals help cruisers to get fully into vacation mode!

3. Start the Day with Coffee and an Ocean View

Many cruisers make it a point to enjoy their morning coffee and a light bite on the balcony or top deck. Some love sipping coffee with a croissant and fresh fruit while watching the waves roll by, while others add a little extra something, like espresso with a splash of Baileys, to make it feel truly vacation-worthy. 

Many cruisers jokingly refer to this as “pre-breakfast”.

Waking up to the ocean, rather than a busy schedule, sets a relaxed tone that helps you appreciate every moment ahead.

4. Explore the Ship from Top to Bottom

One of the best parts of sailing on a new cruise ship is exploring it from the bottom to the top deck. Many cruisers joke that they always “get lost trying to find our cabin”. While it might not be planned, it’s definitely part of the inevitable fun for many cruisers.

Avid cruisers treat the ship itself as part of the adventure. They wander each deck to find cozy reading nooks, late-night snacks, or a quiet window seat to watch the world drift by.

Some make a habit of exploring during off-peak hours, strolling along the promenade after midnight when the ship is calm and peaceful. Many make a point to discover hidden bars, lounges, and serene spots away from the crowds.

5. Attend Live Shows and Entertainment

The evening entertainment scene is a major draw for regular cruisers. They love catching Broadway-style productions, live music, comedians, and themed parties.

Some mention getting picked to go onstage as a “volunteer” for a comedian, while others look forward to the Love and Marriage show or the festive deck parties. From Broadway-style productions and late-night comedians to live music and trivia sessions, there’s no shortage of onboard fun.

Related: 75 Best Gifts for Cruise Travelers

6. Wake Up Early for the Sunrise (or Stay Late for the Sunset)

“Watch the sunrise from the balcony” and “Watch the sunset and get up early to watch the ship maneuver into port” are recurring themes for cruise lovers. 

Night owls find magic late at night too, roaming the empty decks under the stars. Either way, sunrises, sunsets, and that special glow of daybreak or twilight are moments cruisers savor every single time.

7. Try New Foods and Indulge in Old Favorites

Cruise passengers love the culinary adventures at sea. Many look forward to trying local specialties in port or new dishes in the main dining room. Some make a beeline for a burger at Guy’s on Carnival, while others head for signature tacos or a scoop of soft-serve ice cream.

One cruiser joked that they eat, then eat again, and just when they think they are full, they find room for one more treat. On a cruise, it seems there is always something worth tasting!

Related: 50 Genius Cruise Food and Drink Hacks You Wish You Knew Sooner!

8. Embrace New Adventures and Step Out of the Comfort Zone

Many seasoned cruisers take advantage of onboard activities and excursions that push their boundaries in some way.

For some, it is zip-lining or climbing a ropes course at sea. For others, it is trying a painting class, singing karaoke, or joining the morning walk on deck. For many, it’s trying new foods that are part of the included dining menus.

9. Spend Time on the Balcony or a Quiet Deck Spot

Seasoned cruisers know the value of a balcony cabin or a peaceful spot on deck. Many say they sit outside each day, listening to the waves and enjoying the gentle breeze.

Others find cozy corners where they can read, have a cocktail, or simply stare at the passing seascape. For some, this quiet moment of reflection becomes the highlight of the entire trip.

Some even make a point of heading to forward decks to watch the ship glide into port, while others return to the aft deck to view the glowing wake at sunset. It is a simple pleasure that never gets old.

Related: Are Balcony Cabins Worth it on a Cruise? 10 Pros & 4 Cons

10. Plan the Next Cruise Before Disembarking

Perhaps the most telling ritual is that many cruisers cannot resist planning their next voyage before the current one is over. Some drop by the Future Cruise desk to pick a date and ship, while others put down a deposit and start their cruise planning once they disembark.

This forward-looking tradition keeps their love of cruising alive and ensures there is always another adventure waiting on the horizon.

Related: 20 Disembarkation Day Do’s & Don’ts All Cruisers Need to Know

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Are you a seasoned cruiser or will you be cruising for the first time? Please let me know your own cruise ritual or what you’re most looking forward to, in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

Ilana

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