Title: Cruise Ship Etiquette: Experts Share Behaviors to Avoid at Sea
Subtitle: From fruit looting to balcony escapades, some passengers need a lesson in manners
Date: [Insert Date]
Byline: [Insert Author Name]
Intro: Cruise ships are meant to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience for passengers. However, not everyone understands the importance of good etiquette at sea. From inappropriate behavior to simple oversights, experts in travel etiquette have seen it all. Here are some behaviors cruisers should avoid on their next voyage.
1. Don’t be tardy:
One of the first etiquette violations can occur even before the ship leaves port. Being late, disorganized, or impatient during boarding sets a negative tone for the whole trip. Passengers should be on time, have all necessary documents ready, and practice patience, according to etiquette expert Maryanne Parker.
2. Avoid chair hogging:
Securing a prime lounge chair on the deck is a coveted experience for many cruisers. However, it is considered bad manners to leave personal belongings unattended for long periods of time, preventing others from using the chairs. Passengers should refrain from claiming chairs and then disappearing for hours, urged Nick Leighton, host of the etiquette podcast “Were You Raised By Wolves?”
3. Watch your kids:
Parents should ensure that their children do not disrupt other passengers’ relaxation around the pool or in other areas of the ship. Responsible parenting includes cautioning kids not to splash sunbathers nearby or run through hallways screaming, advised travel advisor Angel Wilson.
4. Elevator etiquette:
Pushing onto an elevator while others are trying to exit is a major no-no. Passengers should wait for everyone to exit before entering the elevator to ensure smooth and respectful vertical travel, said Wilson.
5. Keep your alcohol in check:
While enjoying a drink onboard is perfectly acceptable, passengers should know their limits and avoid obnoxious behavior due to overindulgence. Flashing body parts, yelling at bartenders, and excessive drunkenness can ruin the experience for others, warned Wilson.
6. Act with grace in the dining areas:
Dining rooms and buffets can quickly become unpleasant if some passengers display bad manners. Being presentable and clean at mealtime is essential, stated Parker. Additionally, Leighton emphasized the importance of being polite to staff in case something goes wrong with the food or service.
7. Respect entertainment performers:
During evening shows, it is considered disrespectful to walk out in the middle of an act. If attendees must leave, they should wait for a break between songs or scenes, advised Wilson. Using phones during performances should be minimized, with screen brightness turned down and notifications silenced.
8. Be mindful of balcony activities:
Balconies on cruise ships may not be as private as some passengers think. Engaging in intimate or X-rated activities in full view of others can be uncomfortable and off-putting for fellow cruisers. Passengers should exercise discretion and respect for others’ privacy.
Conclusion: Cruising provides a wonderful opportunity to relax and explore new destinations. By following basic etiquette guidelines, passengers can ensure a pleasant and harmonious experience for themselves and their fellow travelers.