Pre-planning for a cruise vacation is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, it allows travelers to secure the best deals on accommodations, ensuring that they have access to preferred cabins, amenities, and even early booking discounts. Additionally, careful pre-planning enables individuals to create a well-thought-out itinerary, maximizing their time in each port of call and making the most of onboard activities. It provides an opportunity to research and select excursions, dining options, and entertainment preferences, allowing for a customized and stress-free vacation. I will have a guide and break down for each part to consider when packing for a cruise in Hawaii.
Pre-Cruise Checklist
Aloha, cruisers! Justin here, ready to help you prepare for your Pride of America cruise. Here’s a simple checklist to ensure you’ve got everything covered before you set sail. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on a good path to having a smooth Hawaii cruise.
- Apply for Passport: Do this 4-6 months in advance to avoid any delays.
- Download the Cruise Line’s App: Do this at home while you’re on Wi-Fi to save data and time.
- Luggage Tags: Purchase and attach a tag to each piece of luggage, including carry-ons and personal items.
- Set Up Travel Protection: It’s best to do this within 15 days of your initial trip deposit.
- Book Hotels: If you need accommodations before or after your cruise, make those reservations early.
- Purchase Airfare/Arrange Transportation: Get this sorted out well in advance.
- Verify Shuttle Services: Check if your hotels offer shuttles and whether there’s a fee.
- Pre-Pay Gratuities: This is optional but can make your trip more convenient.
- Specialty Dining: Explore and pre-book any specialty dining options you’re interested in (optional).
- Excursions: Look into and pre-book any excursions you want to do (optional).
- Wi-Fi Options: Check out and pre-purchase Wi-Fi packages (optional).
- Order Water: Have a case of water delivered to your cabin before your sail date (optional).
- Pet Care: Arrange for someone to take care of your pets and create a vet info sheet if needed.
- Mail: Arrange to have your mail held or picked up while you’re away.
- House Key: Leave a spare key with someone you trust.
- Bank Notification: Call your bank to let them know you’ll be traveling internationally.
- Unplug Electronics: Unplug any unnecessary electronics before you leave.
- Refrigerator: Throw away any perishable items.
- Take Out Trash: Make sure to take out the trash as you leave for your trip.
Still need to buy some cruise essentials? Make sure not to wait until the last minute! I found some below that are a great deal. Click the image to view more.
