5 Indicators You’re Truly Hooked on Cruising

In recent years, the number of individuals opting for cruise vacations has surged. Yet, an essential distinction exists.

Some individuals simply enjoy cruises, while there are those who are completely devoted to them. I certainly belong to the latter group, given that cruises comprise my profession, but I’ve encountered numerous passengers who are truly enthusiastic about this realm!

Interestingly, not many people realize that there are definitive indicators that you—or someone you know—might be a cruise aficionado. How do you identify them? Well, if they exhibit any of the following behaviors, it’s pretty much a certainty!

Own a “Cruise Countdown” App… or More

Let’s be real: on your device, there’s at least one specialized countdown app that meticulously tracks each hour, minute, and second until you step aboard your next ship.

You check it every day (or perhaps even several times a day) as if it’s your own personal holiday countdown.

And if you don’t have an app, you manually count the days to your next cruise, wishing they whizz by as fast as possible.

Confession: I’m guilty of glancing at mine during tedious work meetings, just to think: “Only 43 days and 8 hours until my next cruise? Yay!”

Fluent in Cruise Terminology

When someone mentions “port,” you immediately think “where the ship docks” instead of “a wine type.”

You discuss “Lido deck,” “Windjammer,” and “muster drill” effortlessly. Meanwhile, your friends back home have no clue what you’re saying.

Let’s be honest: only a true cruise lover casually uses “disembark” in everyday discussion. Bonus points if you can identify a ship’s class merely by examining its hull design.

Ready to Bargain for Extra Vacation Days

Need to sweeten the deal with your boss by baking brownies for a few extra days off? Already strategizing around your cousin’s wedding to accommodate your upcoming cruise?

You have no qualms about reshuffling your schedule or putting in extra work to fit in one more fantastic cruise. A genuine cruise enthusiast always discovers a way to sneak in some time off for another adventure.

Sadly, that’s not always feasible, and if obligations interfere, all we can do is fantasize about the next cruise.

Possess a Collection of Cruise Tips

A sign of a cruise addict is being essentially a walking encyclopedia of cruise knowledge.

They’re knowledgeable about the cruising universe, especially their preferred cruise line.

Which deck is ideal for avoiding crowds? How to outsmart chair hogs? They’ve also got insider knowledge on how to discreetly bring an extra bottle of wine on board.

What’s great is that many of them enjoy sharing their tips and feel compelled to offer guidance whenever someone mentions considering a cruise.

One simple inquiry and suddenly, they’re inundating you with their expertise. “Wait, don’t reserve that cabin, it’s directly below the karaoke lounge!“

If you’re pondering what these “expert insights” entail, check out the list of 10 travel hacks only seasoned cruisers know.

Constantly Scanning for the Latest Cruise Deals

newsletter and text alert, ensuring they are the first to hear about flash sales on that dream itinerary.

Sometimes, they don’t even require a specific destination. “Oh, it’s a last-minute cruise to a place I barely know?” Count me in.

Measuring Every Other Vacation Against a Cruise

I can attest that this is a phenomenon I’ve personally experienced, and I believe it’s rather common. When you are truly passionate about cruising, every other vacation type simply cannot compare.

I have had occasions when I’ve stayed at luxurious five-star hotels, yet none of them provided the same feeling of joy or anticipation I get from a cruise.

Maybe it’s the proximity to the ocean, the onboard attractions, or the vast array of dining options, but many land-based vacations simply lack the enchantment of a cruise.

Knowledgeable About Cruise Cabins

While first-time cruisers may feel daunted when stepping aboard a giant cruise ship, seasoned cruisers know everything about the layout and are experts on cabin selection.

They are aware of the 7 hidden features you can discover in a cruise cabin, as well as the best hacks to enhance a cabin’s comfort.

They also know which cabin placements to steer clear of, how to optimize storage, and the little-known benefits that can significantly enhance the cruise experience.