Stepping off the cruise ship and onto the lively coastline filled me with an overwhelming sense of excitement. The anticipation of exploration and adventure offered by the shore excursions represented the highlight of my cruise journey.
But as I soon discovered, there were some key tips and information that every traveler should know. Booking early was essential, as popular excursions often sold out quickly. Online booking in advance was also a wise move for specific tours.
And of course, there was the matter of tipping. It was customary to give cash tips to guides and bus drivers, a gesture of appreciation for their hard work. But how much to tip? That depended on the quality of the tour and the efforts of the guide or driver.
These were just a few of the things I learned on my cruise, and in this article, I’ll be sharing more about booking tips, tipping customs, and other important details for shore excursions on a cruise. So, let’s dive in and make the most of our time ashore!
Key Takeaways
- Booking shore excursions early is recommended as popular ones tend to sell out quickly.
- Online booking in advance is a good idea, especially for specific excursions.
- Cash tipping for guides and bus drivers is customary and appreciated on shore tours.
- Some cruise lines include excursions in their fares, but it’s important to check with the cruise line for details and potential for-fee upgrades.
Booking Shore Excursions
I missed out on a popular shore excursion during my last cruise because I didn’t book early, so I learned my lesson and now always make sure to book in advance.
It’s important to be aware of the all aboard time, as the ship won’t wait for passengers on non-sponsored excursions. To avoid disappointment, I recommend online booking in advance, especially for specific excursions that tend to sell out quickly. This way, you can secure your spot and have peace of mind.
Booking early also gives you the opportunity to plan your day and make the most of your time onshore. So, don’t make the same mistake I did and miss out on an amazing experience. Take advantage of online booking and ensure you don’t miss the boat!
Tipping on Shore Tours
Consideration for tipping on shore tours should be based on the quality of the tour and the guide or driver’s work. It is customary and appreciated to give a cash tip to guides and bus drivers on shore tours. The amount of the tip can vary depending on the level of service provided and your satisfaction with the tour.
It is always a good idea to have some small bills on hand for tipping purposes. When it comes to selecting a tour operator, it’s recommended to do some research beforehand. Look for reputable and well-established tour operators that have positive reviews and a good track record. This will ensure that you have a pleasant and enjoyable experience during your shore excursion.
Included Excursions on Cruise Lines
Check with the cruise line for details on which excursions are included in the fares and if there are any options for additional upgrades. When it comes to included excursions on cruise lines, it’s important to know what is covered and what may require an additional fee.
Here are some key points to consider:
-
Upgrades availability: Find out if there are any opportunities to upgrade your included excursion to a more exclusive or immersive experience. This can enhance your shore excursion and provide a unique and memorable adventure.
-
Cruise line details: Each cruise line has its own policies and offerings when it comes to included excursions. Some may include a certain number of excursions in the fare, while others may offer a selection of complimentary options. It’s important to understand the specifics of what is included and how to make the most of these opportunities.
-
Variety of excursions: Discover the range of included excursions available. Whether you’re interested in cultural tours, outdoor adventures, or historical explorations, the cruise line may offer a diverse selection to cater to different interests.
-
Reservation process: Understand how to reserve your included excursions. Some cruise lines allow you to pre-book online, while others may have a sign-up process onboard. Knowing the reservation process will help you secure your preferred excursions and maximize your time ashore.
-
Additional fees: While some excursions may be included, it’s important to be aware of any additional fees that may apply. This could include optional upgrades, equipment rentals, or entrance fees to certain attractions. Understanding the potential extra costs will help you plan and budget accordingly.
By checking with the cruise line for all the details on included excursions, upgrades availability, and any additional fees, you can make the most of your cruise experience and ensure a memorable and enjoyable time ashore.
Information about Ashley Kosciolek
Ashley Kosciolek’s cruise articles have captured the attention of readers, sailing them through a sea of valuable information and insights. As an experienced cruise writer, Ashley has written thousands of cruise tip features, reviews, and news articles that have appeared on reputable platforms such as Cruise Critic, USA Today, Associated Press, NBC News, Miami Herald, and Huffington Post. Her extensive knowledge and expertise in the cruise industry make her articles a must-read for anyone planning a cruise vacation. Whether it’s her in-depth reviews of the best bags for a cruise vacation or her informative pieces on how to communicate with someone on a cruise ship, Ashley’s published articles provide readers with valuable insights and practical tips to enhance their cruise experience.
Miscellaneous Cruise Topics
I found some interesting articles about the best bags for a cruise vacation and how to communicate with someone on a cruise ship. When it comes to packing for a cruise, having the right bag is essential. According to the experts, here are the 10 best bags for a cruise vacation:
- Durable and spacious duffel bag
- Versatile and stylish backpack
- Practical and organized wheeled suitcase
- Compact and lightweight crossbody bag
- Waterproof and secure dry bag
- Convenient and easy-to-carry tote bag
- Secure and anti-theft travel backpack
- Stylish and functional messenger bag
- Collapsible and space-saving garment bag
- Versatile and compact fanny pack
On my first European cruise, I learned a lot from both the things I did right and the mistakes I made. Here are 3 things I did right:
- Packed comfortable walking shoes
- Researched and planned my shore excursions in advance
- Brought a power bank for my electronic devices
And here are 5 mistakes I made:
- Overpacked and had to carry heavy luggage
- Didn’t budget enough money for unexpected expenses
- Forgot to bring a universal power adapter
- Didn’t check the weather forecast before packing
- Didn’t bring enough sunscreen and ended up getting sunburned.
What Shore Excursions and Tipping Customs are Offered on the MSC Seaside Class Cruises?
The exciting MSC Seaside Class offers a variety of shore excursions, ranging from historical city tours to adventurous water activities. Tipping customs on MSC Seaside Class cruises are generally included in the cruise fare, but guests have the option to provide additional tips for exceptional service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular shore excursions that tend to sell out quickly?
Popular shore excursions? They sell out like hotcakes! From thrilling zip-lining adventures to cultural city tours, these sought-after experiences book up fast. Don’t miss out, follow my booking tips to secure your spot on these unforgettable adventures.
How much should I tip the guides and bus drivers on shore tours?
When it comes to tipping guides and bus drivers on shore tours, it is customary to give them a cash tip. The amount you give should be based on the quality of the tour and the guide/driver’s work.
Can I book shore excursions online in advance?
Yes, you can book shore excursions online in advance. The booking process is simple and convenient, allowing you to secure your spot for popular excursions. Booking in advance has the benefit of ensuring availability and avoiding last-minute disappointments.
Which cruise lines include excursions in their fares?
Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises offer included excursions in their fares, providing budget-friendly options for passengers. These excursions allow travelers to explore ports of call without incurring additional costs.
What are some dumb cruise shore excursion questions that people ask?
People often ask dumb cruise shore excursion questions, revealing common misconceptions. Questions like "Do I have to book shore excursions?" or "Will the ship wait for me if I’m on a non-sponsored tour?" can be easily answered with a little research.
Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.
With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.
