Princess Cruises Common Mistakes

Booking Blunders: The Wrong Cabin, Ship, and Timing

Ah, booking a cruise—where you realize that the choice you make today will determine whether you’re gazing at a sunset through your private balcony or listening to your neighbor’s bathroom activities through paper-thin walls. Despite being a veteran in the business, Princess Cruises still manages to baffle newbies with their cabin and ship choices. First mistake? Choosing the wrong cabin. It’s tempting to save a few bucks with an inside cabin, but if you’re prone to claustrophobia or simply enjoy natural light, you’ll end up regretting that decision faster than you can say “all-you-can-eat buffet.”

Next up is picking the wrong ship. Not all Princess ships are created equal—some are floating palaces with everything you’ve dreamed of, others might be better described as floating retirement homes. Be sure to check our Ship Database to pick the right one for you.

Then there’s timing. Do you love kids? No? Then maybe avoid booking during school holidays unless you fancy your pool time being akin to a scene from “Home Alone.” On the other hand, if you’re hoping for warm weather, be mindful of cruising through Alaska in September unless you’re into sleet and gray skies.

Onboard Blunders: Missing the Ship and the Math of Drink Packages

Nothing screams “rookie” like missing the ship because you lost track of time in a charming Caribbean market. Remember, those all-aboard calls aren’t a suggestion. Set multiple alarms, and take a watch if you’re in a different time zone—your phone might not update, but the ship’s schedule won’t care.

As for drink packages, let’s do some math, shall we? Princess offers a variety of drink packages, but unless you’re planning to consume your weight in piña coladas, they might not be worth it. These packages often come with a daily cap on “premium” drinks, so if you’re not a big spender at the bar, think twice before purchasing.

Then there are the excursion traps. The allure of a ‘Princess-approved’ excursion is strong, but don’t fall for it without checking local options first. Many times, booking directly with local guides not only saves you money but also provides a more authentic experience. And while we’re on the subject, always check our Outbreak Tracker for the latest health advisories.

Packing Follies: What Not to Bring

Overpacking is the rookie mistake that’ll keep on punishing you throughout your trip. Princess Cruises have fairly strict luggage policies, and trust me, you don’t want to be that person wrestling an oversized suitcase through security. Packing thirteen pairs of shoes for a seven-day cruise might seem reasonable, but trust us, it isn’t.

Don’t forget essentials like a power strip, especially since cabin outlets are scarcer than a free deck chair on a sea day. And leave the formal wear at home unless it’s a particularly fancy cruise—Princess’s casual nights are about as laid-back as your average Sunday brunch.

Dining Disasters: Navigating Reservations

Princess Cruises offer a mix of traditional dining and “Anytime Dining.” If you’re not a fan of schedules, the latter is your savior but only if you remember to make reservations. Don’t wait until you’re hangry to realize that the dining room is full. And speaking of dining rooms, specialty dining is not just a phrase—it’s a wallet trap. While it’s fun to splurge occasionally, don’t assume specialty restaurants are always superior. The main dining room offers plenty of delicious options included in your fare.

Veteran Secrets: What the Pros Know

Veterans avoid the spa on port days—why pay a premium when you can have the ship almost to yourself and snag a sunbed with ocean views? Also, pros know to book shows and activities on the first day. Leaving it to chance is a rookie move, and you might miss out on the best entertainment.

Lastly, don’t be hoodwinked by those ‘cruise line-exclusive sales.’ From overpriced art auctions to allegedly ‘discounted’ jewelry, just steer clear unless you really know what you’re doing. For more on avoiding these traps, check out our first-timer guide.

For more information on Princess Cruises, check out our detailed Princess Cruises Dossier.