Top 5 Tips For Making the Most Out of Your Weekend Cruise
Weekend cruises are an ideal way to dip your toes into the world of cruising without committing to a full week at sea. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as part of a group, a short getaway offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. However, planning a weekend cruise can feel overwhelming for first-timers, especially with limited time to enjoy everything onboard. To make the most of your experience, here are some practical tips to help you plan, relax, and maximize your time.
1. Get a Drinks Package if You Plan to Drink
If you plan on enjoying a few cocktails or sampling different drinks throughout your cruise, purchasing a drink package can save you both time and money. With an all-inclusive package, you won’t need to worry about the cost of individual beverages, and you’ll have the freedom to try new drinks without hesitation. Whether you're cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, or Carnival, these packages allow you to indulge without tracking your tab, helping you make the most of your limited time onboard.
2. Choose an Itinerary with a Private Island Stop
Many cruise lines include their private islands on short itineraries, offering a beach-day escape without extra cost. On these islands, most shipboard packages—like drink plans—work the same as onboard, giving you an opportunity to enjoy cocktails and meals while relaxing. Consider itineraries with destinations like CocoCay (Royal Caribbean), Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian Cruise Line), Ocean Cay (MSC Cruises), or Celebration Key (Carnival). These stops offer activities such as snorkeling, zip-lining, and water parks, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy during your brief getaway.
3. Consider Going Solo or Traveling with Friends
Weekend cruises offer the perfect opportunity to explore solo cruising. With only a few days at sea, it’s a great way to see if you enjoy traveling alone without committing to a longer trip. On the flip side, weekend cruises are ideal for groups of friends. They are more affordable, require less time off work, and offer a variety of onboard activities. If you’re traveling with an adult group, Virgin Voyages is a great option because it features plenty of onboard parties and a wide variety of restaurants included in the fare, making it easy to share fun dining experiences with friends. Whether you prefer spending time at the pool with friends or unwinding by yourself, a weekend cruise provides the flexibility to do both while allowing you to recharge.
4. Pack Smart and Light
Since weekend cruises are brief, overpacking can create unnecessary hassle. Aim to pack only what you need—swimwear, casual clothes, evening outfits, and basic toiletries. Avoid the stress of checked luggage by sticking to a carry-on, which also speeds up embarkation and disembarkation. The less you pack, the more time you’ll have to focus on enjoying the ship's amenities instead of dealing with luggage. For help with what to bring, check out our Top 10 Cruise Necessities to make sure you’re fully prepared without overdoing it.
5. Arrive Early to Maximize Your Time Onboard
To make the most of your weekend cruise, plan to arrive at the port early on embarkation day. This gives you extra time to explore the ship, enjoy a welcome drink, and familiarize yourself with the onboard amenities before departure. Many activities, like the buffet and pools, are available as soon as you board, so arriving early ensures you start your vacation off on the right foot.
Bonus Tip: Get an Interior Cabin
If you’re looking to cruise on a budget, consider booking an interior cabin. These rooms are often the cheapest and perfect for a weekend getaway, especially since you’ll likely only use your cabin for sleeping. With so many activities and entertainment options onboard, you won’t be spending much time in your room, making an interior cabin a smart and cost-effective choice.
Conclusion
A weekend cruise is a perfect way to explore cruising without a long-term commitment. Whether you’re testing solo travel or enjoying time with friends, choosing the right itinerary and planning ahead can make all the difference. Be sure to consider a drink package, pack light, and arrive early to maximize your time onboard. With the right preparation, your first cruise will be a relaxing and fun-filled experience that leaves you wanting more.
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