You and your awesome travel consultant (me) have selected the perfect cruise ship and itinerary for your vacation. Booking is completed, air transportation, pre-cruise hotel arranged, and ground transportation set up. OK, maybe you DIY! Either way, here are four more reservations you should consider before departure.
Shore Excursions. Whether you are going with the cruise line’s excursions, utilizing a third-party, or hiring a private guide, book in advance! The most popular shore excursions sell out. There are only so many zip-lines, whale watching excursions, or Segway tours available. Not to mention, skipping the line at the Vatican, heading straight to the Acropolis, or being first inside the Hermitage of St. Petersburg.
So, if you have your heart set on a particular tour or experience, make sure you have it nailed down before you leave. Even if your specific activity isn’t capacity impacted, you don’t want to spend your limited shore time arranging or negotiating tours and transportation.
Specialty Dining. If you’re planning to celebrate a special occasion at a Specialty Dining venue and you want a specific date, reserve before departure. Some of the more popular venues fill up quickly – especially on scheduled sea days. If you aren’t picky about the date or which restaurant, you can probably wait until after sailing.
Salon Appointments. The busiest salon days coincide with formal nights. If you need your hair or nails done for a formal night, book the appointment in advance. There will be no availability by the time you board.
Spa Appointments. Does a relaxing massage or facial as the ship gently glides through the ocean sound like a great way to spend a sea day? So do half the ship’s passengers! Sea days are the most popular spa days. Conversely, shore days usually have discounted offerings from the spa.
Maybe you’re one of those who likes spontaneity while on vacation and this all sounds a little too Type A. I get it. But, if you have something that’s super important to make your vacation successful, go ahead and book it to avoid disappointment.
Do you have a special activity or experience that requires advance reservation? Let me know!
Like this article? Sign up for my weekly newsletter to keep up with hints, tips, and the latest travel must dos.