Before you leave, check out information on your specific cruise and ship by visiting both the cruise line’s website and a great site called cruisecritic.com. Our home site at CruiseExperts.com also has neat tools you can browse. This will help you get an idea of the ship’s layout, restaurants and features. Also make sure and check out the shore excursions, which are organized tours and activities (like whale watching) at your port cities. You can even reserve them on line. If you’re not sure, don’t worry, you can also sign up for these tours when you get on the ship.
Check the ship’s website and itinerary to get an idea of the dress code. Most cruises have at least one formal night, which means at least a cocktail dress for women and a dark suit for men. Of course, if you don’t feel like getting dolled up on your vacation, you can always order room service or hit one of the ship’s more casual restaurants that evening. NCL is very popular for their “Freestyle Dining” experience. Many mid and luxury cruise lines like Oceania is “Country club” dress code only so you may appreciate that. Most cruise lines have an issue with jeans in the dining room so I would avoid that on the casual nights.
A little secret for you is that on most cruise lines their is always a New York steak, Salmon Steak and grilled Chicken breast available off the menu so if you are not interested in the days menu ask for one of these. I usually like to try more then one entrée because many times I cannot make up my mind, so I just get both 
. It is even more fun with the deserts and don't worry if cannot not finish your plate. Feel free to order after an after dinner espresso or cappuccino coffee at no extra charge but you usually have to ask for it.
Pack a carry-on bag for your first day on the ship. You may not see your suitcases for awhile after you board, so carry essentials and a change of clothes with you, just in case.
Arrange your travel so you’ll be at the ship by noon on your cruise day, so you can take advantage of your first free lunch! Make sure to factor in any possible flight or travel delays. If you are not comfortable with having to meet deadlines then I suggest flying (or driving) in the day before and stay at a hotel to relax and get ready to board.
