Are you ready for the perfect cruise experience? Look no further than a sea day on a cruise ship. With a slower pace and opportunities for relaxation, sea days are meant for enjoying leisure activities and making the most of your time on board. But, as with any vacation, there are mistakes to avoid. From avoiding crowded buffets to planning too many activities, this article outlines the top 10 mistakes to steer clear of on a cruise ship sea day. So, sleep in, book your specialty dining and spa appointments in advance, and make sure to enjoy the nightlife the night before your sea day for an unforgettable experience.
10 Mistakes to Avoid Making on a Cruise Ship Sea Day
Sea days on a cruise ship are a time for relaxation and leisure activities. It’s important to make the most of these days and avoid making certain mistakes that could impact your overall experience. Here are 10 mistakes to avoid making on a cruise ship sea day:
Mistake #1: Eating Only at The Buffet
Royal Caribbean’s Windjammer buffet is a popular dining option due to its variety of great food and inclusion in the cruise fare. However, it can get quite crowded on sea days, especially during breakfast and lunch. Instead of solely relying on the buffet, consider exploring alternative dining options on board.
You might want to try grabbing a salad from Park Cafe, a burrito from El Loco, or enjoy freshly sliced pizza from Sorrentos. Additionally, you could opt for a sit-down meal at the main dining room or a specialty restaurant. Checking the Royal Caribbean app for alternative options can help you discover hidden gems on board.
Mistake #2: Not Checking All the Activities
Royal Caribbean offers an extensive list of activities on sea days. It’s essential to check the cruise compass or the Royal Caribbean app to see what’s happening each day. Planning ahead ensures that you don’t miss out on any exciting activities.
Consider checking the schedule the night before to plan your day. Keep in mind that while it’s good to participate in activities, it’s essential to strike a balance and avoid overbooking your day. Remember, sea days are meant for relaxation, so don’t feel pressured to do too much if you’d rather just unwind and take it easy.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Apply Sunscreen
Spending time in the sun is a popular choice on sea days. However, many passengers end up with painful sunburns because they forget to apply sunscreen. Remember to generously apply sunscreen throughout the day and reapply frequently to protect your skin.
A sunburn can quickly turn your cruise vacation into a miserable experience, so it’s crucial to take precautions and avoid unnecessary discomfort. Make sunscreen a priority to ensure a pleasant day in the sun.
Mistake #4: Forgetting to Take Sea Sickness Medication
If you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t forget to take your sea sickness medication before it’s too late. Feeling ill during a sea day can ruin your entire experience. It’s better to be prepared and take your medication preemptively to prevent any potential discomfort.
Whether you prefer over-the-counter remedies like Dramamine or Bonine or natural solutions like ginger tablets, make sure you have them on hand. Taking precautions in advance can save you from any seasickness issues while on a cruise.
Mistake #5: Waking Up Too Early
A cruise vacation is all about relaxation, so take advantage of sea days by catching up on sleep. In contrast to port days, which often require early wake-up calls, sea days offer the opportunity to sleep in.
Instead of waking up at the crack of dawn, give yourself the freedom to enjoy a leisurely morning. Use this time to recharge and prepare yourself for the rest of the day. You’ll appreciate the extra rest, especially if you have been waking up early for port excursions.
Mistake #6: Getting to the Pool Deck Too Late
On sea days, the pool deck tends to be busier compared to port days. If you want to secure a prime location for your pool chair, make sure to arrive early. By heading to the pool deck around 8:30 or 9:00 a.m., you increase your chances of finding a desirable spot.
However, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t be a chair hog. While some passengers may reserve chairs early in the morning and leave them unoccupied for an extended period, this practice goes against the rules. Avoid adding to the problem and be mindful of other passengers.
Mistake #7: Forgetting to Make Specialty Dining Reservations
If you plan to dine at a specialty restaurant on a sea day, don’t forget to make reservations in advance. Specialty restaurants tend to be in high demand on sea days, and availability can fill up quickly.
To ensure you secure a table at your desired restaurant, make reservations before the cruise through the Royal Caribbean website or via the cruise planner. Even if you have a dining package, you may still need to wait until you’re on board to make a reservation.
Mistake #8: Forgetting to Book Spa Appointments
Spending time at the spa is a popular choice on sea days. It’s common for many passengers to want spa treatments during this time since their schedules are usually open. If you’re flexible with your schedule, consider booking a spa appointment on a port day to enjoy better prices.
While booking a spa treatment on a port day allows you to save money, it doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice spending time in port. You can book your appointment before or after your time in port to enjoy the treatment and still explore. Keep in mind that spa appointments on sea days tend to sell out quickly, so make sure to make an appointment in advance if it’s a priority for you.
Mistake #9: Going to Bed Too Early the Night Before a Sea Day
Since sea days are meant for relaxation, it’s a great idea to stay up late the night before. Unlike port days, where early wake-up calls are common, there’s no need to worry about waking up early on a sea day.
Take advantage of the nightlife and entertainment options on board, whether it’s enjoying a show or dancing the night away at the nightclub. Don’t be the person who goes to bed early and misses out on the fun. Just remember to allow yourself some time to recover if you feel a little hungover the following morning.
Mistake #10: Not Making the Most of Your Sea Day
Lastly, the biggest mistake to avoid on a sea day is not making the most of it. Sea days are meant for relaxation and enjoyment, so take full advantage of this time. Whether you choose to participate in activities, lounge by the pool, indulge in delicious cuisine, or simply enjoy the scenic views, ensure that you embrace the spirit of a sea day.
Remember, sea days offer a unique opportunity to unwind and recharge. While there are many activities and experiences to choose from, don’t feel pressured to do everything. Customize your sea day according to your preferences and prioritize relaxation and enjoyment.
In conclusion, sea days on a cruise ship are a special time. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the most of this leisurely day at sea. Take advantage of alternative dining options, check all the activities, apply sunscreen, take sea sickness medication if needed, get enough sleep, arrive early at the pool deck, make specialty dining and spa reservations in advance, stay up late the night before, and most importantly, enjoy your sea day to the fullest. Bon voyage!
Source: Royal Caribbean Blog
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