Alright, let’s be real – nothing ruins a perfectly good cruise faster than people who act like they’re the only ones on board. A cruise ship is basically a small, floating city, which means a little etiquette goes a long way in making sure everyone has a good time.
Want to be the passenger everyone loves instead of the one everyone side-eyes at dinner?
10. Don’t Be That Deck Chair Hog
Look, I get it. That prime spot by the pool? Chef’s kiss. But if you think throwing a towel on a lounger at sunrise and disappearing for hours makes it yours, think again. Crew members are allowed to remove unattended items, and fellow passengers? They’re getting real tired of playing the “Is someone sitting here?” guessing game.
If you’re actually using the chair—great! Otherwise, let someone else enjoy it. The sun shines on everyone, my friend.
9. No, Your Music Taste Isn’t Everyone’s Vibe
We all love a good vacation soundtrack, but blasting your personal playlist on the pool deck like you’re DJing a beach club? Not it. There’s a reason headphones exist—use them. The rest of us are trying to sip our overpriced cocktails in peace without a full-volume remix of Livin’ on a Prayer intruding on the moment.
8. Watch Your Kids (Seriously, Watch Them)
I know, vacations are for unwinding—but they’re not for treating the ship like free babysitting. Lifeguards aren’t always on duty, and a distracted parent + an unsupervised kid + a slippery deck = a surefire way to spend your afternoon in the medical bay.
If you brought the little ones, own the responsibility—that means keeping an eye on them at the pool, in restaurants, and definitely at the buffet where tiny, sticky hands have been known to cause absolute chaos.
7. Adult Pools Are For… Adults
I know it’s tempting to sneak the kiddos in when the family pool feels like a Lord of the Flies situation, but adult-only areas exist for a reason. Sometimes, people just want to float in peace without dodging cannonballs or pool noodles.
There are plenty of splash zones for kids—respect the boundaries, and everyone wins.
6. Respect the Smoking Rules (It’s Not the Wild West)
Just because you’re on the open sea doesn’t mean you can light up wherever you please. Cruise ships have designated smoking areas, and ignoring them isn’t just inconsiderate—it could actually get you fined or kicked off at the next port.
Want to keep your vacation drama-free? Follow the rules and don’t make strangers passive-smoke your way through the trip.
5. The Hot Tub is Not Your Private Suite
A hot tub on a cruise is not your personal backyard spa. If it’s packed, maybe don’t stretch out like you’re on an episode of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. Keep your soak to 20 minutes or so, especially if there’s a line.
Also, if you’re traveling with a group, don’t all pile in like it’s a family reunion—leave some space so strangers don’t have to be uncomfortably close to your uncle’s sunburned shoulder.
4. No Diapers in the Main Pool (Yes, This Needs to Be Said)
Parents, I promise I’m not out to get you, but this one is important. Even if your baby is rocking the latest and greatest swim diaper, they’re still not allowed in the main pools. Cruise ships follow strict health codes, and one wrong move can shut the whole pool down for hours.
The good news? Many ships have designated splash areas where the little ones can enjoy the water without ruining everyone else’s day. Use them.
3. The Jogging Track is Not a Lounge
You found the perfect sun angle—great! But if you dragged your lounge chair right onto the designated running track, you’re about to get some death stares from early-morning joggers.
Those tracks are there for people trying to sneak in some cardio between buffet runs—not for sunbathers trying to claim extra real estate. Keep the loungers where they belong, and nobody gets hurt.
2. Keep the Bikini Top On
Sure, topless sunbathing is a thing in some places, but most mainstream cruise lines? Not one of them. Unless you’re on a ship that specifically allows it, keep it covered. There are families, grandparents, and unsuspecting retirees on board who didn’t sign up for the full European beach experience.
Want to go topless? Find a private balcony or a ship that allows it. Otherwise, save yourself (and everyone else) the awkwardness.s.
1. Sunscreen. Apply It. Then Apply It Again.
Nothing screams “rookie mistake” louder than turning into a human lobster on day one. The ocean breeze tricks you into thinking you’re fine, but that sun does not care.
Lather up with high SPF before heading out, and don’t forget weird spots like your feet, ears, and scalp (yes, your scalp). Sunburn doesn’t just make you miserable—it makes everyone miserable when you’re hobbling around in pain for the rest of the cruise.
A little consideration goes a long way when you’re sharing a ship with thousands of other people. Stick to these unspoken rules, and you’ll not only have a great time—you won’t be the reason someone else doesn’t.
Now go forth, enjoy the buffet, and for the love of all things tropical, don’t leave your towel on that chair and disappear.