Insider Cruising Tips

First time passengers have difficulty envisioning what their cruise holiday will be like. Here are a few insider cruise tips that will help make your cruise holiday experience more enjoyable. On the Costa Web site you can reserve land excursions by the date issued by the system during the reservation process (Must be done at least 7 days before the departure date of the primary port of cruise, which may differ from the passenger's boarding port). Since most shore excursions fill up fast, registering online using the data (first and last name, date of birth) that were given at the time when you purchased your cruise, can help guarantee you can participate in the excursions you want. Costa offers a good selection of Buon Viaggio Gifts which may be purchased up to one week in advance of sailing on Costa’s website for delivery in your cabin. Gifts include fresh flower bouquets, wine and champagne and onboard credits. A lot of luggage looks the same. Attach a colored ribbon to each of your bags to make them easier to find. When packing clothing attire, keep in mind that most of the time you’ll feel comfortable in casual resort wear including light cotton clothing or swimwear and a beach robe for covering up indoors. Tennis or low-heeled walking shoes are recommended for exploring ports of call. For Northern Europe sailings, sweaters, lightweight jackets and raincoats are appropriate. On formal nights, ladies may wear evening gowns or cocktail-length dresses; gentlemen may choose dark suits or tuxedos. On other evenings, gentlemen generally wear sport coats and slacks, while ladies wear resort attire. There are laundry and valet services available onboard for a nominal fee, so don’t bring more than you need. When you arrive at the cruise terminal, keep your cruise documents handy in your carry-on bag. When checking in, you will need to present your cruise documents, along with your proof of citizenship and completed Passenger Declaration Form to the Costa reception desk. Soon after you have boarded the ship is a good time to book your favourite spa treatment as the most popular ones fill up fast. If you plan to arrive a few hours before the ship’s departure, you will find a delicious Welcome Aboard Buffet waiting for you. During your cruise, the ship will offer seminars highlighting the attractions and shopping at each port. Typically these seminars are offered the day before arriving at each destination. Plan to attend these meetings to educate yourself on the destination and its sightseeing opportunities. When in port, remember that other countries may be more conservative than your own. When leaving the ship, dressing with casual elegance will show respect for other cultures.