Cruise Lingo 101: Essential Terms Every Cruiser Should Know

Embarking on your first cruise? The unique terminology used on board can sometimes feel overwhelming, but a little knowledge can go a long way. At Haven Travel, we want to make sure you feel like a cruise pro before you even set foot on the ship. Here’s a breakdown of essential cruise vocabulary, grouped into helpful sections, to get you ready for smooth sailing.

1. Navigating the Ship

When you're exploring your cruise ship, knowing the layout and directional terms can make it easier to get around.

• Forward: This refers to the front of the ship. When navigating on board, signs will often direct you to different parts of the vessel, so it’s helpful to know that "forward" means toward the bow (the front).

• Aft: This refers to the back of the ship. Many passengers enjoy staying in aft-facing cabins for the stunning views of the ship's wake as it glides through the water.

• Midship: This is the midpoint of the ship. Cabins located here often offer more stability, which is great if you're worried about seasickness.

• Port: When standing on the ship and facing forward (towards the bow), the "port" side is on your left. It’s a key term for navigation while you’re on board.

• Starboard: The opposite of port, the starboard side is on your right when facing forward. You’ll often hear crew members refer to these terms when docking or maneuvering the ship.

• Deck: "Deck" refers to a floor level on the ship. Cruise ships have multiple decks, which serve as different areas for staterooms, dining, entertainment, pools, and more.

2. Your Onboard Experience

Cruising is all about comfort, relaxation, and entertainment. Here’s a look at the spaces and amenities you’ll encounter onboard.

• Cabin/Stateroom: Your home away from home while on board! A "cabin" or "stateroom" is your room on the ship. They range from cozy interior cabins to luxurious suites with balconies.

• Atrium: This central area is often the heart of the ship’s social scene. Similar to a hotel lobby, the atrium typically features shops, bars, and live entertainment.

• Lido Deck: The Lido Deck is where you’ll find the ship's main pool, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and outdoor dining. It’s one of the most vibrant areas on board.

• Specialty Restaurant: Beyond the main dining room, cruise ships often offer specialty restaurants, which serve premium meals for an additional charge. These venues may require reservations but offer unforgettable dining experiences.

• OBC (Onboard Credit): Onboard credit (OBC) is money you can use during your cruise to pay for drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions, and more. It’s often included as a booking perk.

• Gratuities: At the end of your cruise, gratuities are tips given to the ship’s hardworking crew members. They’re typically added to your final bill, but some cruise lines allow you to prepay them.

3. Cruise Itinerary & Ports

Your cruise will take you to exciting destinations, and understanding your itinerary can help you plan each day.

• Itinerary: Your cruise itinerary includes a detailed schedule of your destinations and sea days. This plan lays out which ports you'll visit and when you’ll have days at sea to explore the ship's amenities.

• Sea Day: A "sea day" means that the ship is at sea, without visiting a port. These are perfect days to enjoy the ship’s pools, restaurants, entertainment, and activities.

• Shore Excursions: These are tours and activities organized by the cruise line at each port of call. From snorkeling to city tours, there’s something for everyone to experience during shore excursions.

4. Embarkation & Disembarkation

The beginning and end of your cruise are just as important as the time spent at sea. Here's what to expect.

• Embarkation: This is the process of boarding the ship at the start of your voyage. It’s an exciting time as your vacation officially begins!

• Debarkation/Disembarkation: At the end of your cruise, you’ll go through debarkation, which is the process of leaving the ship. Haven Travel ensures that your departure process is as seamless as possible.

• Gangway: The gangway is the walkway used to board and exit the ship. You’ll cross it at embarkation, debarkation, and when visiting ports of call.

• Transfer: A transfer is transportation from the airport or your hotel to your cruise ship’s port. At Haven Travel, we can arrange seamless transfers to start your trip stress-free.

5. Safety & Navigation

Cruise safety is always a priority, and you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the safety terms and procedures onboard.

• Bridge: The "bridge" is where the ship’s captain and crew navigate and control the vessel. While passengers rarely get to visit, it's fascinating to know that the ship’s command center is always working hard to ensure smooth sailing.

• Muster Station: Your muster station is a designated emergency checkpoint where you’ll gather if needed. Each passenger is assigned a muster station, and you’ll learn its location during the safety drill.

• Safety Drill: Every cruise begins with a mandatory safety drill on embarkation day. The crew will walk you through procedures in case of an emergency and familiarize you with your muster station.

6. Entertainment & Activities

Cruising is about more than just relaxing; it's also filled with fun activities and entertainment to make your voyage memorable.

• Cruise Director: The cruise director is in charge of all onboard entertainment. They make sure there’s never a dull moment by organizing games, shows, parties, and other fun activities.

Ready to Set Sail?

Understanding cruise terminology is just the start of your adventure. Whether you're planning your first cruise or are a seasoned sailor, Haven Travel is here to ensure every detail is handled. For expert guidance and to plan your dream cruise, contact us at 281-886-3628 or visit us online at www.haventravel.co/contact.

Let’s get your next adventure underway!