Stormy Weather

Stormy Weather

Dealing with Weather on a Cruise Vacation

A cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to take a vacation. Who wouldn’t want to travel to some of the most alluring locales on the planet in total luxury? Unfortunately, every cruise comes with the inherent risk of bad weather. But with the right provisions and precautions, you can still have a fun and relaxing vacation.

Occasionally, bad weather, like a hurricane, can cause a cruise to be cancelled completely. But most of the time, the weather is just a minor inconvenience. Here are some tips to help you have fun on your next cruise, even if it seems like Mother Nature is out to get you.

Bring the Right Gear on the Cruise

Before you leave for your cruise, make sure you check the weather in the regions where you’ll be travelling and pack accordingly. Many cruise ships provide complementary umbrellas, and some even have raincoats for guests to borrow. However, you should also be prepared for hot weather with hats and sunglasses. It’s also a good idea to bring shoes with good traction for slippery, wet decks, and jackets for cool weather. Since it’s often hot and humid during the day, but cool at night, try to plan outfits that you can layer.

Enjoy Indoor Activities on the Cruise

It might be disappointing not to be able to use the pool or shuffleboard deck, but that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to do. Cruise ships are full of activities, so there’s no reason you have to sit in your room all day. Most have gyms, and some even have courts for sports like basketball and tennis. Your ship probably also has a library, and there may be shows and classes going on during the day. You won’t even notice the dreary weather when you’re having fun ballroom dancing or watching a cooking demonstration.

Be Prepared for Seasickness on the Cruise

There’s a chance that stormy weather could make you feel seasick. Most cruise lines prepare for a certain percentage of guests to fall ill, especially on the first day, so the infirmary is packed with medication to help you feel better. You can also bring your own, and talk to your doctor before you leave about natural ways to treat seasickness.

Practice Patience on the Cruise

In most areas of the world, periods of rain are always combined with periods of sunny weather. Sometimes, you just have to wait a day or two for the clouds to clear, so if you’re patient, you can still have a great trip. Relax indoors while it storms, and enjoy the sun as soon as it peaks through the clouds.

Enjoy the Food and Drinks on the Cruise

You don’t need good weather to enjoy the food on a cruise. Your stomach may be a little sensitive until you get used to being on the water, but there are tons of choices on any cruise ship. Many also have special activities surrounding meals, such as formal dinners, captain’s tables, diner theatre and much more.

Ask the Cruise Director for Recommendations

If the weather is poor and you start to feel bored, head to the cruise’s information desk and ask about amenities and events that can help you stay active. Cruise directors plan special activities for days when the weather is poor, ensuring that you get your money’s worth. All you have to do is ask! Remember, they may not appear on your itinerary.

Go to Shore Whenever Possible

As long as the weather isn’t too violent, there will still be excursions to shore when you come into port. Take the opportunity to get off the ship and check out what the port city has to offer in terms of shopping, tourist attractions and cuisine. With a raincoat and umbrella, you can still have an amazing experience on land.

Make New Friends on the Cruise

Of course, you don’t have to socialize when you are on a cruise, but when you’re in such close quarters; it is a great time to meet new people. Everyone’s in the same boat, literally. So don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with others as you wait for the weather to clear. Some cruises actually set up tables in a family style, so you can meet new people if you want. Take advantage of these opportunities whenever you can.

Ask for Discounts on the Cruise

Most of the time, you can’t get a discount on the cruise just because the weather is bad. That’s the chance you take when you book a trip, and the cruise line doesn’t have control over it. However, what you can do is ask for discounts on indoor activities that you’d normally have to pay to do. For example, if it is raining and you can’t use the indoor pool, talk to the customer service reps about getting free access to the racquetball courts, which might normally cost a few dollars to use. The worst they can do is say no, so it always pays to ask.

About the Author

Jennifer Bailey is a freelance writer who writes about vacationing, often discussing a specific kind trip such as cruise vacations.

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