Taking the tips of well-traveled cruisers is the very best thing for very first time cruise voyagers to do. After all, why not learn from somebody else’s errors or mishaps? Of course, you will still have a few of your own, but that is what makes your very first cruising experience remarkable.

You have actually got your cruise booked and are counting the days up until you set sail. Nevertheless, there are a couple of things for you to do before you even begin to think about packing. Contact the cruise line to see what vaccinations, if any, are needed for your journey. You’ll need to make a trip to your doctor to get current on any shots.

While you are at the doctor, ask about pointers on staying healthy and avoiding the influenza or colds before you depart for your cruise. It is no fun needing to take a trip ill or canceling all together. Also inquire about seasickness solutions. A few of these medications are prescription only.

Stock up on any other prescription medications just in case they are scheduled to run out during your journey. Often, insurance companies will make exceptions and allow a prescription to be filled up early if you are taking a trip without any access to a chain pharmacy. One last thing– get a letter from your doctor on official letterhead noting your prescriptions and mentioning that they were all legally recommended for you. If you have to go through customs, a letter will in some cases keep you from being apprehended while your medication is examined.

If you are on a special diet, let the cruise line be aware of this fact when you reserve your cruise. Many diet plans are easily accommodated, but it is always much better to be safe than sorry. A few weeks before you depart, check in with the cruise line once again to review your bookings and unique needs diet.

Pack a modest emergency treatment kit for those “just in case” emergency situations. Include antacids and anti-diarrhea medications for those episodes of “Montezuma’s Vengeance” that seem to strike no matter where you take a trip. Aspirin, antibiotic cream and aloe vera gel for sunburns also come in handy.

Stow away sun block, moisturizer and lip balm in your luggage too. When you are having excessive fun outdoors, you tend to forget things like sunburn. Be sure to apply the sun block cream right before heading outdoors. Moisturizer and lip balm keep your skin soft. Sometimes the temperature level changes from the cold air conditioning system to the heat outside can wreak havoc on the skin and dry it out.

Aside from the sun block, protect your skin by wearing hats and sunglasses. When you are on the ship’s deck gazing at the waves, the sun’s reflection off the water can be quite bright. The sunglasses will protect you from hazardous UV rays from the sun. Certainly, the hats will protect you from the sun’s rays and possible sunburn on your ears and face, 2 areas that individuals in some cases forget to administer sun block cream.

With the right preparation and safety measures, you are well on your way to a healthy and happy very first cruise. And when in doubt about something, ask your cruise line. They want to make sure your cruising experience is hassle-free. After all, they want you to sail with them once again.