If you’ve ever dreamed of setting sail on a cruise but felt a bit overwhelmed by all the options, you’re not alone! Cruising is one of the most popular ways for Aussies over 60 to travel, and for good reason – unpack once, see the world, and enjoy all the comforts of a floating resort.
But, as seasoned cruisers Scott and Leanne Gordon can tell you, there’s a bit more to it than just booking a ticket and showing up at the dock.
With an astonishing 57 cruises under their belts (and another 12 already booked – talk about dedication!), Scott and Leanne have seen it all: the rookie mistakes, the hidden gems, and the little tricks that turn a good cruise into a great one.
They’ve sailed on all the major lines and have plenty of wisdom to share, especially for first-timers.
Don’t Treat a Cruise Like a Land Holiday
One of the biggest mistakes newbies make? Treating a cruise like a regular land-based holiday. Leanne explains, ‘A ship isn’t just transport between ports, it’s part of the experience.’ Unlike a road trip or a city break, cruising is as much about the journey as the destination. Sea days – those stretches where you’re not in port – are a chance to slow down, read a book, nap in the sun, or simply watch the endless blue go by.
If you’re used to jam-packed itineraries, it might feel strange at first to have a day with ‘nothing’ planned. But trust the experts: these relaxing days often become the highlight of the trip. It’s your chance to truly unwind, meet fellow travellers, and enjoy the ship’s amenities.
Know What’s Included (and What’s Not!)
Another common pitfall is not checking what’s actually included in your cruise fare. These days, cruise lines vary widely in what they bundle into the price. Some offer all-inclusive packages, while others charge extra for things like specialty dining, drinks, WiFi, tips, and shore excursions.
Leanne’s advice? ‘Drinks, WiFi, tips, specialty dining and excursions can add up quickly, so it’s worth checking exactly what your fare covers.’ Sometimes, a seemingly more expensive cruise can actually be a better value if it includes the things you’d pay for anyway. Always read the fine print and compare packages before you book.
Avoid the Buffet on Day One
It’s tempting to head straight for the buffet as soon as you board, but Scott and Leanne recommend giving it a miss on embarkation day. The buffet is usually packed, and you’ll likely end up waiting in line and eating more than you intended.
Instead, seek out one of the ship’s restaurants for a more relaxed meal. And whatever you do, don’t miss the sailaway! Head up on deck to watch the ship leave port – it’s a magical moment that sets the tone for your adventure.
Packing: Less is More
Worried about what to wear? You’re not alone. Many first-timers stress about the dress code, but Scott and Leanne say it’s usually more relaxed than you’d expect. ‘Most cruise lines are generally more relaxed than people expect,’ they say.
Pack a couple of smarter outfits if you want to join in on dressier evenings, but don’t overthink it. Most ships have laundry services or self-serve laundries, so you don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe.
Choosing the Right Cruise Line
Not all cruises are created equal! The Gordons recommend doing your research – not just on the ports, but on the ship itself. ‘Consider the ship design, dining style, entertainment and passenger demographic,’ Leanne advises.
A short party cruise and a longer premium sailing might visit similar destinations, but the onboard experience can be worlds apart. Think about what matters most to you: quiet relaxation, lively entertainment, gourmet food, or family-friendly activities.
Top Destinations: Home and Abroad
While the Mediterranean and Alaska are on many bucket lists, Scott and Leanne say some of the best cruising is right here in our own backyard. ‘Sailing out of Sydney never gets old,’ Leanne says, and their favourite close-to-home itinerary is New Zealand – stunning scenery, friendly locals, and plenty of adventure.
Internationally, they’ve loved ports like Valletta, New York, Vancouver, and Edinburgh – each unique and memorable. For jaw-dropping scenery, Norway is hard to beat, while the Mediterranean offers a perfect blend of culture and coastline.
Key Takeaways
- Many first-time cruisers make the mistake of treating a cruise like a land holiday, forgetting that sea days are part of the experience and can be highlights for relaxation and enjoying the ocean.
- It’s important to check exactly what’s included in your cruise fare before you book, as extras like drinks, WiFi, tips, specialty dining and excursions can add up quickly.
- Avoid the crowded buffet on embarkation day and dine in one of the restaurants instead, and don’t miss the special experience of sailaway from the deck.
- Don’t stress about dress codes or overpack – most cruise lines are more relaxed than people expect, and ships usually have laundry facilities if you need to wash clothes during the trip.
Are you a seasoned cruiser or thinking about your first voyage? What are your top tips or burning questions? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!
