How to find the ‘secret’ areas on a cruise ship to avoid the huge crowds
HOLIDAYING on a cruise ship can mean sharing a small space with throngs of people.
But there are things that you can do to try and find some extra space during your cruise, especially next to the pool.
Former travel consultant Scott Laird has revealed his best tips for people to try and find their own space.
Firstly, Laird suggests that those looking for extra space pay for more expensive rooms as they get access to exclusive areas.
If a traveller wants to avoid having to battle over deck chairs to sun themselves on, they could even book their own room with deck.
Scott said the more expensive rooms also have access to their own restaurants, pools, and bars – a ‘ship within a ship’.
He said: “That way, regardless of how busy your sailing proves to be, you can still enjoy yacht-like privacy—plus the fun-loving social atmosphere and amenities of a large cruise.”
Secondly, holiday makers can reserve deck chairs next to the pool for a certain amount of time, but he said each cruise operator is different.
Or, on most cruises, deck chairs can be reserved for a small fee.
Doing one of those options saves the awkward glances and passive aggressiveness of trying to claim and keep a prime spot.
Finally, Scott suggests that those on a cruise should just wander the boat to try and find the space they are looking for.
Whether it’s a quiet bar or a busy restaurant if travellers know how the boat works they can find what they want.
He says: “If you still have difficulty finding your groove on the ship after a round of exploring, consult the experts. Cruise ship crew members live and work aboard their ships for months at a time, so they know them incredibly well.”
Scott also has tips on how to prepare for flight cancellations, which are particularly important during winter.
He suggests forming backup plans and watching your flight on the FlightRadar24 app beforehand so you know if it is likely to be cancelled.