Have you been thinking about a cruise but not sure what to expect? Read on for some great tips from Norwegian Cruise Line.

CRUISE. MYTHS. BUSTED.

MYTH: I’LL GET BORED ON THE SHIP.

TRUTH: With so much to do on board, you’ll have to book another cruise just to experience it all! We have a seemingly endless choice of activities on board such as go-karting, wine tastings, sports and aqua parks during the day. Every night there’s entertainment like Broadway shows, live bands, nightclubs and a superb choice of bars and lounges.

MYTH: I’LL GET SEASICK.

TRUTH: Due to the ship’s size and the use of stabilizers when needed, you may not even feel that you are moving! However, if it is a concern, you can book a stateroom mid-ship where there is the least movement, and there are many medicinal and natural remedies available.

MYTH: IT’S TOO EXPENSIVE.

TRUTH: Unlike any other vacation, with Norwegian’s exclusive Free at Sea promotion depending on the stateroom category you choose, you can receive up to 5 free offers with a value of up to $2,900. You can choose from Free Open Bar, Free Specialty Dining, Free Excursions, Free Wi-Fi or Free Kids. Plus, with worldwide cruises of varying lengths and a wide range of staterooms, you’ll find a vacation that’s perfect for you and your budget.

MYTH: I’LL HAVE TO EAT WITH STRANGERS / I HAVE TO EAT ON A SCHEDULE.

TRUTH: We offer you the freedom and flexibility of dining when, where, and with whomever you want. With a variety of incredible restaurants – up to 21 dining venues to please any palate – Feel Free to be a little epicurious and follow your mood, not a schedule.

MYTH: THERE WILL BE TOO MANY PEOPLE.

Our contemporary ships are designed for comfort and space, giving you plenty of room to roam at sea. From relaxing at the Mandara Spa and reclining poolside, to strolling along The Waterfront on select ships and enjoying delicious room service on your own private balcony in a Balcony Stateroom or Suite, finding your happy place on board is a breeze. Also, Suites in The Haven by Norwegian® offer exclusive access to a private courtyard with a pool and their own bar and restaurant on select ships.

HOW TO PACK FOR A CRUISE

WHAT TO PACK

PERSONAL ITEMS

Be sure to hand carry any medications or medical equipment you may need along with your passport and travel documents.

ELECTRONICS

Remember all your tech stuff: tablets, chargers, cameras, travel power adapters, etc. All of our ships are equipped with standard, 110 volts AC outlets.

BRING A CARRY-ON BAG

Suitcases arrive at your room later on embarkation day and are collected the last night of your cruise (if you don’t opt for self-assist). So don’t forget a small overnight bag for carrying any necessary medication, valuables, important documents, and need-to-have items.

HOW MANY SUITCASES CAN I BRING ON BOARD?

Each guest is allowed two pieces of checked luggage with a 50 lb maximum each. Luggage should be clearly labeled with your name, address, and contact number. Luggage tags which you can print at home are included in your eDocs. If you’re traveling by air, you need to check with the airline for baggage allowances and restrictions.

REMEMBER TO:

• Pack for the destination – whether your destination is warm or crisp and cool, packing layers will your best bet.
• Consider your excursions – bring along closed-toe comfy shoes for your shore excursions and sports activities.
• Dress cruise casual during the day, and smart casual in formal dining rooms and specialty restaurants in the evenings.
• Kids 12 years and under are welcome to wear nice shorts in all our restaurants.
• Flip flops, baseball caps, visors and jeans that are overly faded with holes or tears and worn below the hips are not permitted in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.
• We offer laundry and dry-cleaning services on board. Express, same-day service is also available.

WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME

Guests are not allowed to bring on board alcoholic beverages (except for wine and champagne, see below), firearms, weapons of any kind, ammunition, explosive substances, irons, steamers, or any goods of a dangerous nature, nor animals of any kind, except service or guide animals.

A NOTE ABOUT WINE & CHAMPAGNE

You may bring bottles of wine and champagne on board; however, these bottles are subject to a corkage fee. But remember, alcoholic and soft drinks are included in the Free Open Bar as part of Norwegian’s Free at Sea.

Are you ready to claim aboard to your next amazing vacation? Check out the latest cruise deals from Norwegian Cruise Lines here.

Find your AAA Travel advisor here.