Fall Cruise Etiquette: Tips for Smooth Sailing

ByDiane Gottsman
Cruise etiquette for fall | Exterior of cruise ship at sunset

A fall cruise can be one of the most enjoyable ways to see the world. Cooler temps and fall colors make the trip even more appealing to those who love to experience the change of seasons. Taking a cruise is not the same as going on a road trip, and knowing a few etiquette basics can make the travel experience more enjoyable for everyone.

Cruise etiquette for Fall | Cruise Ship at Sea with Pink Sunset Sky

Dress for the Occasion

Packing is always stressful, and knowing how to pack efficiently will take some stress off your shoulders. Even if you are cruising to someplace with warmer temps, be prepared with layers for a cool plane ride to your cruise ship, indoor decks and restaurants that can be a bit chilly. Pack a wrap that can double as a pillow on the plane, or a bathing suit cover by the pool. A waterproof layer is also a good addition to your travel wardrobe.

Breakfast food on a cruise ship dining table with view of the water

Not Every Part of the Ship is Casual

Check the website of the cruise line, and read through dress codes for particular parts of the ship. For a typical dining experience on the cruise liner, “resort casual” is probably the most popular. It means for women, a nice, casual dress, loose skirt and blouse, or a light sweater dress. For men, a pair of trousers and button-down shirt. For more specifics, look directly at their suggestions online. Dress as if you are going to a nicer restaurant or resort – because you are. No flip-flops or gym tank tops, please. 

Consider the Dress Code for Shore Excursions

Dress respectfully when visiting sacred churches and memorials. Many countries require covered shoulders and longer skirts, no shorts, and definitely no gym clothes. Think of the experience as being a guest of honor in someone’s home. Dress as if you are thanking the host for their courtesy and generosity.

Remove Your Phone from Sight

A quick picture of the meal is fine, but a complete photo shoot throughout the experience is distracting and inconsiderate to table mates. Allow yourself to be in the moment as you enjoy the company of your partner and fellow dining guests. 

Arrive and Return from Excursions on Time

The worst thing you can do is make everyone wait for you when taking a tour (be prepared to get left behind due to poor time management skills). When the group meets at 4:30 pm, arrive at 4:00 with your ticket in hand. For going off on your own, be back on board at the designated time, or a little before. Make sure you are aware of the time change – set your watch to local time.

Get to Know the Crew

Addressing them by name and showing respect to crew members, as well as fellow passengers, will be noticed and greatly appreciated. Exercise patience with busy elevators, weather changes, dining experiences, and natural weather occurrences (aka choppy waters), and remember, the cabin attendant is not in control of delays or unexpected incidents.

First Time Cruiser Etiquette – Things You Should Know

  • Check the tipping policy and be familiar with who you should (and should not) tip.
  • Be prepared to leave your luggage at the pier to be taken on ship for you – don’t pack medication, jewelry, or your cell phone in luggage you will hand over.
  • There is no bellman on the ship – cruising works a bit differently – the cruise line will deliver your bags to your cabin, and it may take several hours – be prepared.
  • Your “cabin attendant” is not the same as a hotel “housekeeper” – not your personal butler. The cabin attendant is your main contact throughout the cruise and offers you an ongoing service as opposed to a hotel housekeeper who you may not ever see – learn their name and make requests politely and courteously.
  • Fill out as much of the muster app as you can in advance. Watch the safety video and take the experience seriously, and check in at your assigned muster station. 
  • (A muster station is your emergency meeting point on the ship – so if there is an emergency, the crew can give instructions and safety briefings.)
  • Use your best elevator etiquette – don’t carry large suitcases on the overcrowded elevator unless you absolutely have to. I went into more detail about the topic of Cruise Ship Elevator Etiquette on Fox News recently. 

You may also like Bon Appétit on the High Seas: Cruise Ship Dining Etiquette.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go To” social and professional etiquette authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook and find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost. 

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.

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