7 Easy-To-Make Cruise Mistakes. Are You Making These?

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  • Опубліковано 19 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 336

  • @tracywestwest7012
    @tracywestwest7012 2 роки тому +84

    Travel insurance is a must! My mother passed away in Puerto Rico on a Carnival cruise on the 4th day of an 8 day trip. Got sick on the ship, off loaded at the next port, died at the hospital in Puerto Rico and Carnival took care of my Dad (who was all alone) until my brother could get there. The insurance took care of everything, my dad never got a bill and actually had the cruise fare returned. I will never go without it!

    • @patevans3709
      @patevans3709 2 роки тому +18

      I am soooo very sorry for your loss, but so appreciate your advice for others! I hope you and your family are sharing your grief and finding your way through this shocking experience.

    • @rebeccagutierrez1960
      @rebeccagutierrez1960 10 місяців тому +4

      So sorry for your ordeal.

  • @jwillisbarrie
    @jwillisbarrie 11 місяців тому +5

    Thanks for adding actual captions for the Deaf.

  • @ua_dancer
    @ua_dancer 3 роки тому +55

    Dear guests of cruise ships, you can forget about independent excursions and go to shore by your self :( and big thank you for your tips. Cruise crew call it "pool". So each department of the ship have some percent of this pool. For example in my contract I have salary 816$ and because your tips I will have 1000$ per month. And I salute for you guys, who give some tips by cash. Even 5$ tips it is ok. If you do not want give any tips you can say tganks for creww member just writting his name and department on front desk and describe how this crew members was helpfull to you. This action will be even more better than tips. Thank you and hope to see you all on cruise ship.

    • @lcflngn
      @lcflngn 8 місяців тому +3

      Cannot thank you enough for your comment. I haven’t cruised yet, but planning, and have long wondered how the prepaid tips work for the crew, and how much is appropriate to add on. I’m sure we will “overtip” in cash somehow (we used to work for tips, so that’s how we roll) but also will make sure to leave names & comments in the proper place. 🤗

  • @DonLekei
    @DonLekei 3 роки тому +37

    Not only do you need to put you PHONE in airplane mode, put your TABLET (and WATCH) in airplane mode too! If you have a roaming package, it it PER DEVICE and PER COUNTRY. On one trip, I packed my tablet in my bag without turning it to airplane mode and it cost $40 in roaming charges when we flew from Vancouver to Cancun because the red-eye to Toronto dipped into the US ($12) and the leg from Toronto to Cancun was technically the next day and cost $12 while crossing the US and $16 when we entered Mexico.

  • @johnpatz8395
    @johnpatz8395 3 роки тому +98

    When it comes to “double tipping,” if my room steward and/waiter is particularly excellent (I’ve never had any that weren’t at least very good,) I’ll give them an extra tip at the end of a cruise, but a couple times I’ve found, from chatting with a waiter/steward, that it was their turn to go ashore for a few hours off the ship in the next port, so I’d give them a nice tip the night before we made port, so they’d have a little extra money on them the next day, and although this has only happened to me a few times, each time it did, the people were extremely thrilled at receiving the tip, with one room steward literally almost crying as he thanked me profusely.

    • @lottosal
      @lottosal 3 роки тому +10

      Great advice, thank you!

    • @cruisecrazy7066
      @cruisecrazy7066 2 роки тому +5

      Whenever I hand a cash tip to my steward, or others, I always say quietly, "not for sharing."

    • @knoopsylvia
      @knoopsylvia 2 роки тому +5

      Maybe I‘m wrong but I give a tip to my cabin steward (or cleaner in the hotel) at the beginning of the trip, I never have had a shortage of toiletpaper or towels and always extra little thoughtful things. And at the end I give some more! So maybe that‘s triple but you really want a clean room !

    • @angiejoh.7156
      @angiejoh.7156 2 роки тому +1

      How much is a good extra tip?

    • @johnpatz8395
      @johnpatz8395 2 роки тому +2

      @@angiejoh.7156 not really sure. As I recall with a single room steward I think I usually give them $40 US. It’s not a lot, but it always seems appreciated.

  • @bradp8355
    @bradp8355 3 роки тому +98

    Forget airplane mode. As soon as the last rope is untied my phone gets turned off and locked in the safe until I am back in the cruise terminal. I am on holiday!

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +4

      :-)

    • @DianeRoma1
      @DianeRoma1 3 роки тому +4

      Same here!

    • @jdane2277
      @jdane2277 3 роки тому +5

      Yes, turning it off is a good idea unless you want to pay for wifi service. You can always turn it on when on shore if there is free public wifi and make sure your roaming is off. Some ports (Helsinki for example) have excellent free wifi and you can pick up your email sporadically if you must.

    • @Star-Boarder
      @Star-Boarder 3 роки тому +8

      I agree. I'm on my phone and laptop all day for work. I don't even want the internet package. The amazing thing about a cruise is that it gives your boss and clients a legitimate excuse for why you won't be able to be in contact.
      But I will take my phone to the port. But that's for emergency purposes only.

    • @docmalthus
      @docmalthus 3 роки тому +6

      Right on. The only reason I keep my phone on when I'm on holiday is because I don't wear a watch.

  • @torycook1215
    @torycook1215 2 роки тому +15

    Gary, Always love your voice tone & volume. You are easy to listen to through your continuous videos.
    Of course, your British accent is also a big plus.😎👍
    Thanks for all your tips.

  • @shelleyjennings2427
    @shelleyjennings2427 6 місяців тому +1

    I'm actually a travel professional and I LOVE your videos. You are informative, succinct, practical, and dispassionate and factual.. I so appreciate that in this business where we are often SO passionate about our own experiences and opinions. I have taken many notes watching you!

  • @larry4111
    @larry4111 3 роки тому +53

    Great tips, Gary! My very first cruise I knew to put my phone in airplane mode and made sure to do so. What I didn't realize was that the phone I had at the time was notorious for randomly turning off airplane mode on its own. The way I found out was that one day I was sunning on the pool deck, having the time of my life, when I got a text from my phone provider telling me I was about to reach my data limit. Needless to say, my heart started pounding. They did have a number you could call without incurring additional charges and we figured it out. I got very lucky because they were aware of the bug and didn't charge me. It would have been about $700. Then they told me what to do and this is what I do now. Not only do I turn on airplane mode but I go in and also turn off mobile data and international data roaming.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +12

      Phew, great to hear as the phone companies are not known for being that understanding.....

    • @elouise5593
      @elouise5593 3 роки тому +8

      @@tipsfortravellers T mobile is my provider, and they were very understanding, when I didn't realize that phone service while on the ship was really expensive. They took the charges off my phone bill.

  • @brontewcat
    @brontewcat 3 роки тому +24

    Another positive of booking excursions through local businesses is that most of your money goes to the communities you are visiting, rather than the cruise companies.
    I was living in an island country for 18 months which rarely gets cruises. I was fascinated (shocked) at the costs being charged when a cruise ship arrived. I think the passengers were being charged $10 or $15 for travelling around on the local minibuses (which themselves are an experience) which actually cost 25 cents per trip.I think it was to be taken to the best known landmark- which was a 15 minute trip and then a 5 or 10 min walk? To do it yourself would have been $1.

    • @sergel02
      @sergel02 3 роки тому +5

      I definitely agree with booking them with local business to support the Economy and usually save yourself money.
      I think cruise shore excursions are great if there is something particularly interesting, major language or distance barriers, or visa concerns, but many can be done well with local companies. We did one with a local company in Juneau, Alaska that was fantastic.

    • @chicagogyrl4846
      @chicagogyrl4846 Рік тому

      😂🤣 I would never pay $10-$15 to ride around on a bus, in a developing country, or island!! Stupid people! 😂🤣

  • @Arabsummer
    @Arabsummer 3 роки тому +11

    I've never been on a cruise nor are planning to go on one. But your videos are so entertaining as well as educational, I can't stop watching!

    • @jeffreyb3238
      @jeffreyb3238 7 місяців тому

      Totally agree with this comment. Just enjoying all the information. It's an education.

  • @cbeck01
    @cbeck01 3 роки тому +62

    I only book shore excursion through the ship because I am a nervous Nellie about independent excursions getting us back too late. It paid off when my sister and I cruised Italy a couple years ago. Our shore excursion bus to Monte Carlo etc got caught up in traffic and we were an hour and a half late getting back to the tender. Everyone was freaking out but I knew we were safe because the ship would wait.

    • @johnpatz8395
      @johnpatz8395 3 роки тому +14

      Yeah, that bit of peace of mind is well worth the cost, at least for excursions that will take you a good distance from the port.
      We never ran into that on an excursion, but on one of first cruises we took, we had a similar issue with our flight to the cruise. I can’t remember all the details, but basically our flights ended up getting us to the airport a couple hours after the ship was scheduled to sail, but thankfully, since our flights were booked through the cruise line, the ship had actually waited for us, and the 3 or 4 other people from the same flight who were booked on the cruise. The cruise line had a staff meet us as we got off the plane, expedited getting the luggage of those with checked bags, drove us directly to the cruise terminal and ushered us to a check in desk in the port (it was so strange, it’s this massive warehouse sized room but was empty except for those of us from the plane and our guides from the cruise line.) 2 of the 3 guides we had with us, checked us all in, while the third took our bags. After check in the two escorted us onto the ship, where we were greeted by the first officer of the ship, who then radioed the captain and we set sail immediately.
      Surprisingly when we got to our cabins, the third person who had picked us up, had already placed our bags into our rooms, and each room there was a note from the cruise line, signed by the first officer, apologizing for our delays and “rushing us out of the airport.”

    • @Meela234
      @Meela234 3 роки тому

      @@johnpatz8395 Wow it's good you didn't miss your cruise. This is why I plan to arrive the day before the cruise.

    • @johnpatz8395
      @johnpatz8395 3 роки тому +2

      @@Meela234 yeah, this is why I always plan on getting there at least a day early, as I prefer driving to cruises now, even if it means 14-16 hours driving. We’ve found that driving, and thus avoiding airports and airlines makes our trips much more pleasant, and by planning on getting there a day or two early means we aren’t in any rush, and if we see something interesting we can stop and check it out without being worried about missing the cruise.
      That way if we break down, we’ve got time to get it fixed or whatever, and get back on the road and still not be late, but if nothing goes wrong, and we Don stop anywhere for any length of time, worst case we spend a day or two kicking around the area we are staying, high can even be an hour or so from the port if my wife or I wanted to check out a specific area near there.

    • @Meela234
      @Meela234 3 роки тому

      @@johnpatz8395 Great info in your reply! Thanks! I either want to take a train or drive to Orlando from Southeast Virginia next year (no flying). I'd love to drive but worry about putting the miles on my car or if something breaks down because I'm not a car fixer lol. I'll do further research but thanks for your good information.

    • @ericafors6039
      @ericafors6039 2 роки тому +3

      Same happened to me and my hubby in Malta. 1-1/2 hs late due to a camera ‘theft’ at our luncheon restaurant and local Maltese traffic. It was completely worth it to take the cruise line sponsored excursion. Everyone on the decks clapped then the Captain announced our arrival! 😅

  • @MW-iu1ed
    @MW-iu1ed 3 роки тому +8

    Last year I knew 2 people who needed to be airlifted. One was $40,000 for the patient-did not include the trip for the companion- to be airlifted back to the states and it had to be prepaid. In addition, they had to get all medical bills paid before leaving. Family back home had to take out the loans to send the money. No trip insurance. The second person had the insurance for air lift and they only had to pay $10,000 for all the remaining costs associated with the incident. Still real money but not as bad as person 1

  • @dianeneglia
    @dianeneglia 3 роки тому +12

    We like to tip our cabin steward $20-100 at the BEGINNING of the cruise, with the comment that this is in addition to the auto-tips. Additionally, at the end we hand an envelope with a note that says "in addition to the auto-gratuity, we wanted to show our extra appreciation with this $___"

  • @pandastamps
    @pandastamps 3 роки тому +13

    At 01:25 you mention canceling a refundable fare and rebooking to get the lower pricing. Good idea but you have to make sure the offer or lower pricing does not exclude "rebooks". I have seen new promos that specifically state "no rebooking allowed".

    • @marcelosilva595
      @marcelosilva595 2 роки тому

      Royal Caribbean has this kind of exclusion when you cancel a cruise.

  • @timsanders9111
    @timsanders9111 3 роки тому +29

    Thanks for the suggestion about medical insurance. I never even considered that. Ironically, I was injured on a Holland America cruise once. I was sitting on the stateroom balcony. The door had a sharp corner at the bottom and it scrapped against my heel as it was closing. The bleeding was bad so I had to go to the medical center. Fortunately , no sutures were required. HAL never mentioned billing me for the medical services and there are a basket of fruit and chocolate my stateroom the next day. HAL probably felt partially responsible since the door was so sharp. It all worked out but it’s a good reminder that accidents happen.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +6

      Thanks for sharing this. I guess a they saw it as injured in part through something on there side they did not charge.

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +4

      They certainly do and as a retired Travel Consultant of 30 years I have heard some horrendously expensive medical accidents. Even to bring a body home costs many thousands of $$$$.

    • @AndrewAo
      @AndrewAo 3 роки тому

      i would have thought that personal medical insurance would cover and reimburse you on the medical expenses. is it right?

    • @deborahkn1114
      @deborahkn1114 2 роки тому +2

      @@AndrewAo Many insurance companies in the US don’t cover anything if you are out of the country. A few only cover you in your home state!

  • @Whitbypoppers
    @Whitbypoppers 3 роки тому +25

    For a long time, I wondered what this French company Pinôt was, until I realized it was merely your two-syllable pronunciation of P & O.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +10

      Oh dear... I will try and "P" "and "o" it better! Good to know

    • @vh6307
      @vh6307 3 роки тому +2

      🤭

    • @V100-e5q
      @V100-e5q 3 роки тому +1

      Pinot noir it is in its complete form. A kind of wine. ;-)

  • @michaellee3903
    @michaellee3903 3 роки тому +7

    Good point about travel insurance. I would in fact suggest you might spend an entire episode about choosing the right travel insurance if you haven't done so already. Thanks.

  • @ashleymatthews2763
    @ashleymatthews2763 3 роки тому +17

    I had never considered how incredibly high costs for medical emergencies could be. Will not be cruising without insurance again. Thank you so much for this valuable advice!!!

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +2

      Why on earth had you not. I wonder. Is that the error of youth who think they will live for ever.

    • @ashleymatthews2763
      @ashleymatthews2763 3 роки тому +7

      @@chriswilliams6568 I’m not young and I certainly don’t think I’m invincible. I haven’t cruised out of the realm of my own insurance coverage at this point but would consider it as an add on. What a rude response. Really unnecessary to belittle me.

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +2

      @@ashleymatthews2763 not rude at all, it is mostly the young that believe nothing will happen to them, hence they take more risks at a young age. Anyway hope you remember to get Medical and cancellation/ Interruption insurance for your next trip, don’t forget that if you travel more than once a year, an annual policy might be more cost effective.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +6

      It is definitely something that not enough is made of, So many people travel without it, as we never think about what can go wrong when planning a vacation. It is good that liens are starting to insist on it and even checking it is in place as it will help people in the end

    • @ashleymatthews2763
      @ashleymatthews2763 3 роки тому +2

      @@tipsfortravellers I’m glad they are doing this. Thanks as always for your helpful tips for us cruise lovers!

  • @Bonglecat
    @Bonglecat 3 роки тому +12

    Excursions are my bugbear since we did Hawaii with Princess, the excursion to Pearl Harbour was $100 but in fact it was within walking distance or short cab ride and the entry was free. We didn’t buy that excursion but it really highlighted how they can be a rip off.

  • @maddyhappy4712
    @maddyhappy4712 2 роки тому +4

    Thank you! I just called NCL and one of our cabins is 1200$ cheaper and the other is 1000!

  • @j.m.7056
    @j.m.7056 3 роки тому +5

    I've made this comment before on this site: travel insurance is a must. I had to cancel an Alaska cruise due to a health issue while flying to the port. My cruise agent took care of my claim with the insurance company. I also spent time on the phone to Delta who kindly gave me credit for the unused portion of my reservation. Don't forget insurance!

  • @Clutching.My.Pearls
    @Clutching.My.Pearls 3 роки тому +8

    Gary as always your amazing advice is so welcome. I just placed a note in my phone calendar on the day we leave for Puerto Vallarta to put my phone in airplane mode, THANK YOU!!!

  • @thomaspoke8511
    @thomaspoke8511 3 роки тому +20

    A separate video describing the various types of potential insurance would be helpful. For example, some cover accidents on the trip. Other versions get you out of the cruise before it starts, usually with an MD’s letter. Some insurance can cover the death of a non-cruising family member under the assumption you would go to the services vs. continue on the cruise. The most expensive is usually ‘cancel for any reason’ insurance.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +10

      Thanks for that suggestion. It is quite a complex area but will look at this!

    • @larry4111
      @larry4111 3 роки тому +2

      I also found out the hard way, when I cancelled a trip to Guatemala at the start of the pandemic, that most CFAR insurance only pays back up to 75% of the non-refundable cost.

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +2

      yes you need cancellation and interruption insurance to cover you from the moment any of your money is under the non refundable period. This covers you before you travel, if you had to cancel due to an illness or an immediate family illness, or a house fire. Interruption insurance pays for you to get home if i’ll and allowed to travel home, plus compensates you for the days you lost of travel. epically coverage is for when you are on your trip.

    • @larry4111
      @larry4111 3 роки тому +2

      @@chriswilliams6568 Also people need to check their credit cards. Many include trip cancellation and interruption insurance if you charge the trip to the card. For example, I have it included with my AMEX card. Of course, it MAY not be enough so you want to check the limits but you might save by not buying the same insurance twice.

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +2

      @@larry4111 thx but those coverages with credit cards are hardly ever enough. Token coverage, and for very few days.

  • @jdane2277
    @jdane2277 3 роки тому +12

    In a way, this may be one of your best videos (yes I watch them all.) I've only been on two cruises and they were rather specialized, but I could have or did make some of those errors. If I do cruise again, I'm making a laminated CHECKLIST before booking to make sure I cover those points. Thanks for all you do.

  • @owengilchrist8143
    @owengilchrist8143 3 роки тому +2

    The airplane mode for phone is a great tip. I was cruising with a friend who used AT&T. He turned on his phone to see if he had service, and thought he had service through AT&T. $200 later he turned his phone off. I have T-Mobile and only got a text telling me how much the service I was on is going to cost and asking me to reply “Y” to accept the charges. I did not reply and I did not get charged. Yes, I am a big advocate for T-Mobile because I hate getting surprise charges. Also, I have cruised several times and never bothered with getting the travel insurance. However, you brought up great examples in your video and I will definitely look into getting it for my next cruise! Thank you for the informative video!

  • @frostfire5208
    @frostfire5208 3 роки тому +17

    I don't mind double tipping. We know those guys work hard, are away from their families and probably don't make much. If you think about it, the auto-tip amount that we get charged isn't a lot - especially if you were to compare how much you'd tip if you ate out at a fancy restaurant for 7 days straight at restaurants on land. Also, every extra 20 dollars tipped is less than 3 dollars a day - probably split amongst the two waiters you get and possibly the bar staff. Same goes for the cabin stewards.

  • @timwatson-bartlam3341
    @timwatson-bartlam3341 3 роки тому +8

    Gary you mention giving a cash tip ‘at the end of the cruise’ , I strongly recommend that if you are going to double tip, which we did on our only cruise so far, that you do it at the beginning or as you go along. My wife and I were originally in hospitality and tipping like this gets you the very best service as the staff will mark you out ask a tipper! The staff appreciate it and I appreciated the extra level of service.

    • @noelt2238
      @noelt2238 3 роки тому +2

      How very American!

    • @judithstrachan9399
      @judithstrachan9399 2 місяці тому

      Sounds like “Bribe them or you won’t get their best service” to me.
      Either that or an insult that you might think that!

  • @Snappers1_
    @Snappers1_ 2 роки тому +3

    6:52 Or you can go to the customer service desk when 75% of the cruise is finished. For example, a 7 day cruise at Carnival Freedom. The dates I sent were from January 29, 2022 to February 6, 2022. The first thing to ask at the front desk is when do gratuities automatically get applied on board. They told us that they start charging automatically on February 4, 2022 at 2pm ship time. We took advantage of the time and didn’t have a line to wait for. It was such an easy process, and we even traditionally tipped those who assisted our services.

  • @dogcrazy25
    @dogcrazy25 3 роки тому +3

    Another vlogger mentioned insurance to get flown to medical care. These specific cruisers needed to be flown twice, once off the ship and once back home due to a cancer diagnosis. Travel insurance only covered one trip. Costly issue.

  • @leeannkleine6120
    @leeannkleine6120 2 роки тому +2

    I booked my cruise, and added travel insurance on it. I have since also purchased a year round plan to cover all of my travel. The year round plan covers the 3 things mentioned and pre-existing conditions. I am not cruising until November, but I am already sleeping better knowing that I am protected. Thank you, Gary! Your videos are always concise, and educational.

  • @saramoran3961
    @saramoran3961 3 роки тому +7

    I always pre pay gratuities and then if a specific person goes above and beyond, I give extra then. Many of the staff work for gratuities only.

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +2

      never pre pay anything you do not have to, e.g tips, (they get added to your shipboard account when on board) if the cruise gets cancelled that is more money you will have to try and get refunded.

  • @chriswilliams6568
    @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому +7

    Gary I like the fact of tips going on my bill, as then I pay my bill with a credit card, and I get Air Canada Aeroplan points on it. When I used to use cash, no points for my future travel on Air Canada.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +3

      Glad to hear someone else is obsessed about collecting airline points via their card :-)

  • @lindariley9934
    @lindariley9934 2 роки тому +3

    Your tip to check current fares after booking is solid gold. So glad I watched this video! Thank you!

  • @nealbapat567
    @nealbapat567 3 роки тому +3

    You can also turn off mobile data to avoid the charge as well without being on airplane mode.

  • @katkat521
    @katkat521 3 роки тому +6

    My last cruise to New England and Canada cost me about $1,000 in cell charges. Great tip!

  • @deeedwards9292
    @deeedwards9292 6 місяців тому +1

    Hi,
    Is there a U.K. website that keeps track on prices of cruises from the U.K. and in sterling. Cruise watch is an American site, deals in dollars and doesn’t seem to have P & O cruises departing from Southampton. Thanks!

  • @keithreid2550
    @keithreid2550 2 роки тому +5

    I can confirm the costly repercussions of not keeping a phone in airplane mode. My wife checked her email one evening and forgot to turn airplane mode back on overnight, the phone did a few updates and used a few hundred kilobytes. Not that big a deal right? The bill was over $6000! Yes that's not a typo. After considerable negotiations with the phone carrier we got it down to just under $700. We will never make that mistake again and arrange one of the on board packages before leaving Port.

    • @carb101
      @carb101 Рік тому

      Just reading that makes me feel sick. That's a lot of money for a simple error - and not even the kind of error where anyone is hurt!

  • @joinantonius2
    @joinantonius2 3 роки тому +1

    Too many catches to be actually worth considering. Thank you for your informative videos. I’ll avoid this trap in life.

  • @candicabral3767
    @candicabral3767 2 роки тому +1

    I am so thankful for your videos. I had never purchased the insurance because for some reason I had this belief that it only covered the cost of the cruise if I had to cancel for some reason. I didn't realize it would cover my medical expenses if there was an accident or and unexpected emergency of some sort. Now that I'm nearing 60, the insurance is an absolute!

  • @philippedemontauvant5565
    @philippedemontauvant5565 2 роки тому +1

    Gratuities for the cabin steward are given the first day of the cruise.

  • @RhymesWithSpark
    @RhymesWithSpark 3 роки тому +8

    I've found myself mixed when it comes to wi-fi. When I travel, I like to disconnect while on the ship but I do like to post photos to Instagram, etc.. I actually find it fun to land it port and find a restaurant with wifi, almost like a scavenger hunt, and have brunch or lunch of local cuisine and upload my photos and let family/friends know I am doing well. Then back on airplane mode so I can live in the moment. Something we all need to do more and more in this hyperconnected world.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +5

      Agree. That is why I like that there is a slow but on going trend for lines to include wifi as we all expect places to include it - especially as they try to attract younger families and travellers. They will expect it for sure

  • @merrywhiterose
    @merrywhiterose Рік тому +1

    If you are cheap, like us 😄 here are some tips. If you don't drink alcohol, don't buy ANY drink package. Drink ice tea, coffee, lemonade, & take drink mixes to add to water. DON'T DOUBLE TIP! If you pay tips ahead of time, don't tip anyone after that. Put your phones in the safe so you don't need a Wi-Fi package. Yes, get travel insurance. Don't pay for Specialty Dining. There are plenty of choices, w/o it.

  • @selmaz67
    @selmaz67 Рік тому

    this guy is good .a must watch before a cruise.i thought i was reasonably savy ,i was just a bunny waiting to be fitted before watching this guy.

  • @cliffnorman178
    @cliffnorman178 3 роки тому +12

    What an utterly informative video. Thanks for sharing all of these helpful and enlightening tricks and skills.

  • @katewebber1131
    @katewebber1131 Місяць тому

    What a wealth of knowledge you have, have bing watched on many of your blogs.THANKYOU.😊😊

  • @phaedoncouniniotis2183
    @phaedoncouniniotis2183 3 роки тому +5

    Thank you again Gary. A treasure of information. Keep watching your videos over and over again so info settles in.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому

      Glad you like them!

    • @phaedoncouniniotis2183
      @phaedoncouniniotis2183 3 роки тому +1

      @@tipsfortravellers Frankly Gary and all readers without your help I would have done all the Don'ts!!!!!!

  • @noworries9212
    @noworries9212 3 роки тому +7

    Thank you Gary for another wonderful video! I love your calm delivery. I will keep in mind the airplane mode tip for my May 2022 Amawaterways cruise!!!!

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому

      Thanks for watching! Great to hear your feedback. AmaWaterways are great!

    • @noworries9212
      @noworries9212 3 роки тому

      @@tipsfortravellers it’s been postponed twice already, fingers crossed for next year!!

    • @christineterry4269
      @christineterry4269 2 роки тому

      5

  • @karenkershaw6324
    @karenkershaw6324 3 роки тому +17

    I am quite shocked people don’t have travel insurance. It is an absolute must.

    • @judithstrachan9399
      @judithstrachan9399 2 місяці тому +1

      You know the saying, “If you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.”

  • @erikagholston6610
    @erikagholston6610 3 роки тому +4

    I am buying the insurance from now on.

  • @rickcudmore8156
    @rickcudmore8156 3 роки тому +4

    A pilot friend of mine told me as soon as he gets to his seat in the cockpit he places his phone on airplane mode. I've been doing this for 7 years. And on the ship, I ask the crew about the wifi spots at the ports of call. We always take our 2 bottles of wine on board.

  • @jeffgunter8507
    @jeffgunter8507 3 роки тому +1

    Gary, THANKS!
    We use a prepaid cell service at home (Cricket, but there are a lot of options). With a prepaid cell provider you will never be charged more than your monthly prepaid fee (which, by the way does not include any junk fees, taxes, etc. $25/month is $25/month. no additional charges).
    If you get service somewhere, it is included in your prepaid amount. NO SURPRISES!
    We've traveled with them for years and never had any problems. Bonus: Great service at a reasonable price.

  • @andylawson9410
    @andylawson9410 3 роки тому +3

    Hi Gary, great tips on everything cruising. Have been on 3 Princess Cruises and booked for February next year around NZ from Melbourne, which l have done before. I always do my own tipping and cancel the cruise liners.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +1

      thanks for adding this, good to know what different people do! that cruise sounds amazing

  • @msoda8516
    @msoda8516 2 роки тому

    Travel insurance is priceless. My mother in law had a brain aneurysm while on vacation. She had to be flown home on a medical flight

  • @irishinusa1615
    @irishinusa1615 3 роки тому +3

    Excellent advice. Like you, we have been cruising for years. Feel Guilty if we dont do those end of cruise envelopes. Likely, will continue, but thinking sensibly 👍 all points on here are valid 👊👍

  • @SlackerHead83
    @SlackerHead83 2 роки тому +4

    I've always self toured islands. And I agree with you it can be hectic and stressful trying to get back to your boat in Time. But it does save you some money and gives you a little bit more of a personal experience with that particular destination. Pre-planning your excursions is probably a good idea, especially for a lot of you first time cruisers.

    • @GoGreen1977
      @GoGreen1977 Рік тому

      If you "plan" for something, you don't have to "pre-plan," unless you plan to plan.

  • @inthegreatwide
    @inthegreatwide 2 роки тому

    Thanks for listing the specific websites you use to look at other excursion options! We spend SO much time researching these

  • @September_Rains
    @September_Rains 7 місяців тому

    This video has so many great advices.

  • @robwillett4960
    @robwillett4960 Рік тому

    Insurance is sooooo important. We were on a cruise around the Azores, and someone had a burst bladder (yuk I know but it really happened). They had to divert the ship to mainland Portugal within helicopter range. They had to evacuate the upper decks on one side of the ship and fly him ashore. To allow the helicopter to land they had to remove all the light from the upper deck. The cost for just that must have been massive. You MUST get good insurance otherwise you could be bankrupt.

  • @maril1379
    @maril1379 3 роки тому +2

    Your site popped up
    New and subscribing -also liked

  • @celesteinman56
    @celesteinman56 Рік тому

    Thank you so much for all these fabulous tips. My son is taking me on my first cruise this May but he's noticed that the fees are much more than originally quoted. He's thinking of reconsidering. because of it. So I've been doing lots of homework.

  • @KMA66
    @KMA66 2 роки тому

    Excellent video, Gary. I watch them all, and ALWAYS learn something new.

  • @janeharper885
    @janeharper885 Рік тому

    Another factor when evaluating drinks pkg is the additional gratuities added, even if it is added as free add on.

  • @joycehewitt7648
    @joycehewitt7648 3 роки тому

    Yes he is right book before going off the boat go on the boat long line up they have certain ones full You are right tipping I Am Canadains MORE

  • @lindarobinson2104
    @lindarobinson2104 3 роки тому +3

    Do you have a video on the different types of travel insurance?

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +3

      I don’t but a few people have asked about this so I’m looking into it

  • @loumello8813
    @loumello8813 3 роки тому +3

    Excellent tips, Gary, thanks.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +1

      Glad you enjoyed it. As always, really appreciate you support and watching so much.

  • @punstress
    @punstress 3 роки тому +3

    As a travel agent I was told that you cannot require a client to get travel insurance, at least in California.

    • @judithstrachan9399
      @judithstrachan9399 2 місяці тому

      I’d imagine not. You can only point out the benefits, can’t *make* people be sensible.

  • @Gymcoach1
    @Gymcoach1 6 місяців тому

    You are amazing and have helped me so completely thoroughly!! You help has been absolutely brilliant!! ❤

  • @playme129
    @playme129 3 роки тому +2

    Great tips on requirements for the new normal. I have my Covid shots, but there seems to be a lot of changes. Thanks for posting. Virginia

  • @tmlforsyth
    @tmlforsyth 3 роки тому

    Shore excursions group is great. Many excursions have special rates for Costco bookings.

  • @donnahodges7574
    @donnahodges7574 2 роки тому

    Thank you so very much for all of your Cruise travel tips! I've really enjoyed your videos! They have been most informative. Keep up the great work!

  • @cathyalltwen
    @cathyalltwen 11 місяців тому

    Hi Gary, so grateful to have found your channel, thank you for all your hard work. It's our 1st ever cruise coming up in April 2024 and your videos are so welcome. I just tried to find out if our cruise had dropped in price since we booked but cruisewatch doesn't cover P & O Do you know if there is something similar please for the P & O line? Thank you once again xxx

  • @terrykeenan7879
    @terrykeenan7879 2 роки тому

    Found your videos by chance , great work mate . I've learnt a lot , love your work , cheers .

  • @VegasNegus
    @VegasNegus 3 роки тому +1

    Incredibly valuable information here. I created a file in my notes on my I Phone so I will always be able to refer. Many Thx!

  • @SD-cj8sp
    @SD-cj8sp Рік тому

    So much great info thank you this is all very useful !!

  • @roseanderson7103
    @roseanderson7103 3 роки тому +2

    Thank you Gary! Love your videos- always learn such valuable information and so enjoyable to watch- really appreciate you!😁

  • @TSKseattle
    @TSKseattle 2 роки тому

    The "gratuities" goes to everyone on the crew and their wage is reduced. Handing and extra tip to a particular staff member is not really double tipping, because their share would be relatively low and you're giving money direct to them.

  • @bruciethecuz9031
    @bruciethecuz9031 3 роки тому +2

    Thanks Gary, good stuff to ponder on in this segment. I know insurance will cost us plenty for our 14 dayer next February, but peace of mind alone will be worth it. Also, we know someone who left their phone in normal mode and saw an immense bill next billing cycle. Be well! 👍👍👍

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +1

      agree. Eek, that phone thing catches far too many....

    • @tantanman2852
      @tantanman2852 3 роки тому

      Did you get insurance? Who did you use?

  • @wendykoek6757
    @wendykoek6757 3 роки тому +3

    I phoned the cruise line and pre-booked a bucket list excursion with the cruise line that was a good price for it and it was a lot less expensive that what it was a couple of years ago and I am very happy with the price of it

  • @thomaspoke8511
    @thomaspoke8511 3 роки тому

    Re shore excursions: Whether one uses the cruise offerings or makes an independent arrangement, think a bit more deeply about the precise transportation to be used. We have found (often) that what pulls up is an old van with excuses about how the normal van is in the shop. In some cases no view at all.

  • @gerharde
    @gerharde 2 роки тому

    Travel insurance.
    I think that is a MUST, not an option.
    And don't, don't, DON'T only rely on the insurance that comes with your credit card. That's very limited.
    My brother got caught in that trap.

  • @dwalker6868
    @dwalker6868 5 місяців тому

    Thank you for your video

  • @mjc8281
    @mjc8281 3 роки тому +8

    To add what was said about insurance I was living in the US a number of years ago and my daughter needed to be flown by helicopter to maybe 40miles into Boston(thankfully she recovered very quickly)but the cost ended up being over $80,000

  • @tantanman2852
    @tantanman2852 3 роки тому +1

    Do you have any advice for UK insurance providers that would cover cruises and all the Covid stuff?

  • @Teri_Head
    @Teri_Head 2 роки тому

    Very good information

  • @michaelbarraclough462
    @michaelbarraclough462 3 роки тому +1

    Good Job! This was great! Thank You!!

  • @dantheman8279
    @dantheman8279 2 роки тому

    Excellent content!

  • @angiejoh.7156
    @angiejoh.7156 2 роки тому

    How much is a good extra tip? Not sure how much cash to bring?

  • @PuenteAJ
    @PuenteAJ 3 роки тому

    Very good. Thank you

  • @davedenham8697
    @davedenham8697 3 роки тому

    To be honest the reason I would go on a cruise is to relax and chillout and wind down but from what you say here it sounds like an absolute stressful horrible nightmare

  • @ALSmith-zz4yy
    @ALSmith-zz4yy 3 роки тому +1

    I think I would take the SIM card out of my phone before I leave home. Then use Skype over whatever wifi is available. Calling most places in the world cost pennies per minute. You also have messaging, video calls and voicemail. Unless you have some heavy duty phone requirements this should do you for a vacation.

    • @FurnitureFan
      @FurnitureFan 3 роки тому

      Good tip for any international traveller. Buy a SIM locally - but do check that all your important numbers are saved to your phone after you take out your SIM.

    • @FurnitureFan
      @FurnitureFan 3 роки тому

      Also, I have US friends who had such trouble with roaming coverage that was supposed to be guaranteed in Europe. No one wants to waste time on the phone trying to sort that out. Get a local SIM if you're in another continent.

  • @dospalmascb
    @dospalmascb 10 місяців тому

    I'm curious, my sister recently went on a cruise from Oman to Singapore and I was being nosey and discovered the same cruise was half the price a couple of weeks before departure, does that mean the cruise line should refund the difference between the two, assuming there isnt a clause in the booking conditions. Your point about using an agent to put together a package is interesting. My dad has had to use the medical centre on board a cruise in the Caribbean on 2 different cruises and he's over 80. The insurer was fantastic, he didn't pay a single thing himself, then when he booked the following year there was no penalty for having claimed in the past. Staysure seem to be outstanding for medical conditions and cruising .

  • @RobertA-jj1hc
    @RobertA-jj1hc 2 роки тому

    hi, really love your videos! been binging on them for about 2 weeks now, lol. quick question, what is the ship and cabin type at 1:05 in the video? it really caught my eye. thanks in advance!

  • @brucemiller2057
    @brucemiller2057 3 роки тому +3

    Do you have any recommendations on the various insurance providers, including the cruise line?

    • @chriswilliams6568
      @chriswilliams6568 3 роки тому

      so of use the cruise line insurance, the medical coverage is for a very small amount, so inadequate.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому +1

      I never use the cruise line insurance as usually can get more coverage and better prices. In Uk I found AllClear and Avanti good and in US people use TripInsurance.com and have been pleased

  • @hassanmehmoodkhan2768
    @hassanmehmoodkhan2768 3 роки тому

    Thanks for the great tips

  • @bgregg55
    @bgregg55 3 роки тому +2

    Anyone know where to get last minute discounted cruise tickets in Port Canaveral?

  • @Primroy
    @Primroy 2 роки тому

    I was disappointed that the suggested price alert search engine cruise watch reflected a higher price than one found on the cruise site. It would be hard to successfully track price changes with inaccurate information?

  • @casondave
    @casondave 2 роки тому

    OK, so this tipping and double tipping and all that jazz ..... so if I go on a cruise that's expected or has it always been that way? Or if I go on a cruise in Europe (say the med for example) is that now a thing over there now too? I get enough of it as it now in Canada, does it apply to cruises as well?

  • @peterjones7673
    @peterjones7673 3 роки тому

    Fantastic video Gary as always but really helpful especially the Cruise Watch web site tip, I signed up for it at once. Thanks again and keep these great tips going.

    • @tipsfortravellers
      @tipsfortravellers  3 роки тому

      Thanks for watching! Hope the alerts save you money 💰

  • @LinusCello75
    @LinusCello75 3 роки тому +7

    I appreciate your past tip of bringing a dental repair kit.