Welcome to MonTataneTour (MTT) and your page “Complete cruise guide”.
I’m Sarah (also known as Miss Tatane 😛), a cruise enthusiast and fellow traveler just like you!
For over 10 years, I’ve been sharing real experiences and expert tips to help you navigate the world of cruises with confidence. On this page, you’ll find clear, honest, and 100% human advice — straight from my own life as an avid cruiser. Thanks for reading and for being part of this adventure!
Enjoy your read, have an amazing cruise… and remember: live life to the fullest! ONE LIFE!!!
Complete cruise guide
Onboard payment options
To make the most of your cruise, it’s essential to understand the different onboard payment options. The table below outlines the main methods and offers practical tips for managing your money with peace of mind.
| Method | Details & Tips |
|---|---|
| 1. Cash Payments | Load your cruise card with cash to easily control your expenses and avoid surprises at the end of your trip. |
| 2. Credit/Debit Card | Provide your card details at check-in. The process is 100% secure, and charges are billed directly to your account. |
| 3. Top-Up Stations | Recharge your cruise card at onboard kiosks using either cash or a credit card — a quick and easy way to add funds. |
| 4. Refunds at the End of the Cruise | If your card balance is positive, you can collect your refund at the reception or designated kiosks before disembarking. |
| 5. Spending Tracking & Management |
|
| ATTENTION | For transactions over €250, an authorization request is made each time. Some banks may hold this amount for several weeks. To avoid this, limit spending to €250 per week or prefer cash payments for larger purchases. |
With this clear table, you’ll be able to manage your onboard budget easily and enjoy your cruise without financial stress.
Cruise drink prices
When sailing on a cruise ship, it’s important to plan your onboard drink budget. You generally have two main options: purchase drinks individually or opt for a drink package. These packages usually include both non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages depending on your preferences.
On average, a non-alcoholic drink package for a cabin of four costs around €575. Many travelers (myself included!) find this price excessive — especially if you don’t drink alcohol. In that case, it’s often smarter to buy drinks individually. On most cruise ships, the buffet offers unlimited water, tea, coffee, and other soft drinks throughout the day.
| Item / Service | Average Price (€) |
|---|---|
| Soda | 3.70 – 4.26 |
| Coffee | 2.40 – 4.80 |
| Beer | 5 |
| Mocktail (no alcohol) | 7 |
| Cocktail (with alcohol) | 10 |
| Glass of wine | 3 – 5 (depending on wine) |
| Hair blow-dry | 34 |
| SPA (massages) | 60 – 500 |
| Photo (per picture) | 15 – 30 |
| Photo album (5 pictures) | 100 |
| Excursions | 60 – 200+ |
| Medical consultation (24h) | From 120 |
| Internet package | €12/hour to €120–150 (8-day package) |
Thanks to this guide and clear table, you can plan your drink and service budget efficiently — and enjoy your cruise without unpleasant surprises.
Baggage and onboard restrictions
Complete cruise guide
Before boarding, it’s essential to understand the cruise luggage restrictions to avoid any last-minute surprises. Here’s a complete guide to help you pack smart and stress-free:
| Category | Restrictions & Tips | Real-life Notes & Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol | Bringing your own alcoholic beverages onboard is not allowed. However, if you’re purchasing bottles as gifts during a stopover, you can usually bring them back discreetly. | Each time I go on a cruise, I bring back bottles for my friends and family — never had an issue. Personally, I don’t drink, but as long as you’re discreet and don’t consume onboard, it’s fine. |
| Electronics & Drones | Drones, irons, heating plates, and other hazardous devices are prohibited. | If you bring a restricted item, it will be confiscated at embarkation and returned at the end of your cruise. For example, my kettle was given back upon disembarkation. |
| Medications | Allowed. | You can travel confidently with your prescribed medications and usual treatments. |
| Beauty Products & Liquids | Perfume, shampoo, shower gel, and other toiletries are permitted. | Feel free to bring your essentials — no issue here. |
| Dangerous Items | Weapons, explosives, flammable products, and specific tools are strictly prohibited. | Do not attempt to bring these onboard: they will be confiscated, and penalties may apply. |
By following these restrictions, you’ll pack safely and avoid unnecessary issues during boarding. Always double-check your cruise line’s specific policy before departure!
How to plan your cruise budget
Complete cruise guide
Once you’ve chosen your cruise, it’s time to plan your budget. Costs vary depending on the experience you’re looking for. The table below summarizes the main cruise budget ranges to help you pick the one that fits your travel style and expectations:
| Type of Cruise | Recommended Budget | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Cruise | ~€50 / person | Enjoy the trip without extras: basic entertainment and activities included, no spa or hair salon. |
| Comfort Cruise (Mid-range) | ~€300 / person | Extras possible: massages, hairstyling, small indulgences. Many activities already included in the base price. |
| Luxury Cruise | ~€1,000 / person | Premium services: spa, salon, casino, shopping, and top-level comfort — luxury at sea. |
With this budget breakdown, you can easily plan according to your goals and enjoy your cruise without any unpleasant financial surprises.
Service fees
Since 2021, service fees (SF) must be paid at the time of cruise booking. Previously, they were payable onboard. These mandatory fees vary by cruise line and are usually calculated per night of your cruise.
| Category | Average Fee per Night | Examples by Cruise Line |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | €11 – 12 | MSC Cruises: €12 | Costa: €11 | Cunard, Royal Caribbean, Oceania: up to €13 |
| Children (2–12 years) | €5 – 6 | Varies by cruise line |
These fees are not paid directly to the crew. After speaking with many crew members during my 15 years of cruising, I learned that these fees mainly cover administrative, operational, facilities, and marketing costs.
In short: it’s a rip-off!!!
Cruise gratuities
Complete cruise guide
On a cruise, it’s customary to leave gratuities in recognition of the exceptional service provided by the onboard staff. Suggested amounts are indicative and left to the passenger’s discretion.
| Crew Member | Suggested Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin Steward | €10 – 50 / week | Usually handed directly or left on the desk on the last day. They work 7 days/week, 14+ hours/day for roughly $200/week 😥. Our tips contribute to their well-being and that of their families. |
| Fine Dining Waiter | €10 – 40 | Indicative amount, up to each passenger’s budget. |
| Restaurant Servers | €1 – 10 | Indicative amount to show appreciation for daily service. |
Some passengers leave no gratuities, while others are more generous. The main goal is to show your appreciation for the exceptional service of the crew.
Special diets
Complete cruise guide
If you have specific dietary needs, cruise lines are ready to accommodate you. Here’s a practical summary to ensure a smooth journey:
| Dietary Requirement | Information & Tips | Applicable Cruise Lines |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Most cruise lines offer gluten-free options. Notify them as early as possible before departure. | All major cruise lines |
| Vegetarian | Many carefully prepared vegetarian options available from onboard chefs. | All major cruise lines |
| Kosher Meals | Request at least 2 months before departure to ensure availability. | Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line |
| Halal Meals | Request at least 2 months before departure to ensure availability. | Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line |
For MSC Cruises, simply download and fill out the special request form. For Costa, Royal Caribbean, or Ponant, indicate your dietary needs when booking, and the cruise line will handle the rest.
Don’t hesitate to contact your cruise line before departure to ensure all your dietary requirements are properly managed onboard.
Clothing – Dress code
Complete cruise guide
Honestly, except on luxury ships where everything is very formal, nobody is judging your outfit! On mainstream cruise lines, it’s total relaxation: come as you are and just bring your nicest clothes for the Captain’s Dinner 😉.
| Category | Tips & Restrictions | Key Points & Anecdotes |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Ships (e.g., Ponant) | Strict dress code: no shorts, elegant attire required at all times. | Personally, I don’t travel on these ships: I don’t want to be stiffly dressed during my vacation 😅. |
| Mainstream Ships (e.g., Royal Caribbean, Costa, MSC, Virgin) | Casual attire is accepted for most meals and activities. Just dress up for the Captain’s Dinner if you want. | For official photos at the Captain’s Dinner, wear your nicest dresses or suits. But if you show up in shorts and flip-flops, the captain won’t pose with you 😎. |
| Excursions | Wear comfortable clothing suitable for activities and weather conditions. | Walking shoes, windbreakers, hats, and sunglasses are often essential depending on your destination. |
Family or solo travel
Complete cruise guide
Whether you’re traveling with family or solo, planning your cruise carefully is essential to fully enjoy your experience. Here’s a summary table to guide you based on your travel type:
| Type of Trip | Practical Tips | Key Takeaways |
|---|---|---|
| Family Travel | Choose a cruise line offering family activities, suitable facilities, and family cabins. Inform the cruise line to stay together on flights if outside the Mediterranean. | Family-friendly activities and cabins, flight coordination to stay together. |
| Solo Travel | Join onboard solo traveler activities to meet others and share memorable moments. | Activities to meet fellow travelers, opportunity to make connections. |
| Affordable Solo Cabin | Opt for cabins designed for solo travelers but check prices to find an affordable option. | Solo cabins available, compare offers to save money. |
| Cruise with Included Flight | Avoid included flights, often more expensive. Booking cruise and flight separately can save up to 30%. | Compare separate cruise and flight options to save. |
With this table, you can organize your cruise according to your profile, fully enjoy your trip, and optimize your budget.
Tips for a smooth boarding
Complete cruise guide
Before boarding, follow these practical tips to ensure a hassle-free cruise:
| Step | Practical Tips | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in | Arrive at the port for check-in. Your luggage will be collected and delivered directly to your cabin. | Pack a small backpack with swimsuit, camera, and boarding pass to avoid waiting for luggage. |
| Required Documents | Ensure you have ID/passport, flight or train tickets, cash, and foreign currency. | Make photocopies for added security. |
| Packing | Label your luggage, bring sunscreen, phone, and charger. Bulky books and games aren’t necessary; everything is available onboard. | For children, bring medications, diapers, toys, etc. |
| Enjoy Your Cruise | Follow these tips for a smooth boarding and start enjoying your cruise from the first moment. | Peace of mind and optimal experience upon arrival onboard. |
With this table, you have all the key steps for a stress-free boarding and a successful cruise.
Choosing the ideal cruise duration
Complete cruise guide
Choosing the length of your cruise is crucial to ensure a memorable experience. Depending on your preferences, time constraints, and budget, several options are available. Here’s an overview of different cruise durations to help you make the best choice:
| Duration | Type of Cruise | Benefits & Key points |
|---|---|---|
| 4–5 days | Short cruises 😏 | Perfect for tight schedules or limited budgets. Quick getaway, discover multiple destinations without staying too long in each port. Ideal for a first-time cruise. |
| 8 days | The perfect balance 🤩 | Excellent balance between onboard relaxation and exploration. Enjoy ship activities and varied shore excursions with local cultural immersion. Ideal duration for a complete experience. |
| 11+ days | Deep exploration 🥳 | For adventure enthusiasts. Distant destinations with longer port stays, full immersion in local culture and traditions. Ideal for those craving in-depth exploration. |
Ultimately, the cruise duration you choose depends on your preferences, schedule, and budget. Pick the one that matches your expectations and enjoy an unforgettable experience onboard!
How to choose your cruise
Complete cruise guide
Choosing the perfect cruise might seem complex, but by considering a few key factors, you can select the option that perfectly matches your expectations. Here are the most important criteria to consider:
| Criterion | Key Points & Tips |
|---|---|
| Destinations & Itineraries | Some cruise lines offer a wide variety of destinations, while others focus on specific regions. Make sure the itinerary matches your interests and the places you want to explore. |
| Budget & Pricing | Set a clear budget before starting your search. Prices vary depending on the cruise line, season, duration, and cabin type. This helps avoid being influenced by overly expensive options. |
| Type of Cruise | Choose between luxury, family, adventure, or themed cruises (gastronomy, wellness, culture, etc.) based on your preferences and the onboard experience you seek. |
| Duration & Number of Ports | Pick a duration and number of stops that match your expectations for discovery and relaxation. More ports = more destinations explored. |
| Ship Size | Smaller ships offer privacy and calm; larger ships have more activities and amenities. Choose based on the ambiance you want. |
| Time of Year | High season (summer, holidays) is more expensive, low season more affordable. Consider the weather at your destinations as well. |
| Reviews & Testimonials | Check other travelers’ reviews to assess cruise quality and important considerations. |
In short, by examining these criteria – destination, budget, cruise type, duration, ship size, season, and traveler reviews – you maximize your chances of having an unforgettable cruise.
How to choose your cabin
Choosing your cabin is like choosing your apartment for the week: location is CRUCIAL! Don’t be swayed only by price or size. A poorly placed cabin can ruin your sleep and your stay.
Here’s my guide to break down the options and make the best choice based on your preferences (and especially… your ears 😄):
| Cabin Type | Advantages (MTT) | Attention Points (The Trap!) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside | Best budget option! Very dark (perfect for sleeping). You’ll spend most of your time outside. | Location matters! Under the buffet or pool? Hello early morning chair noise at 6 AM. | Party-goers, heavy sleepers, and budget-conscious travelers. |
| Ocean View / Porthole | Good compromise. See outside without paying for a balcony. | Fixed window! Can’t open for fresh air. Sometimes view partially blocked by lifeboats. | Those who want daylight cues without splurging. |
| Balcony | Luxury! Breakfast with a sea view, romantic sunsets, privacy at ports. | Price can double! Is it worth it if you spend only 10 min/day there? Avoid lower decks: engine noise and neighbors possible. | Couples, claustrophobic passengers, those seeking indulgence. |
| Suite | Space, premium service, private areas (MSC Aurea, Yacht Club…) | Expensive! If you don’t spend days inside, value for money can be questionable. | Those seeking true luxury and don’t count the cost. |
Secret tips to avoid cabin surprises
Check the ship map! Before booking, take 2 minutes to see what’s around your cabin. It makes all the difference.
- ABOVE: Pool deck, buffet, or nightclub? Avoid it! You’ll hear chairs, music, or heels until 3 AM.
- BELOW: Theater, restaurant, or casino? Same issue. Too much noise during peak hours.
- Smart choice: cabin surrounded by other cabins (above and below) = guaranteed silence and comfort!
Front, back, or middle?
Everyone has an opinion! Some swear front is best, others prefer middle or back… Honestly? It’s all the same to me.
I’ve tried inside, ocean view, and balcony cabins all over the ship, and I’ve never had issues with noise or motion. The secret isn’t location—it’s deck choice and what’s around you. Avoid noisy areas (like under the buffet or above the theater), and you’ll be fine!
👉 In short: don’t stress about front, back, or middle. Just pick a well-placed cabin, and you’ll sleep like a baby!
Ultimate tip: Traveling solo or as a couple for a short trip? Take a well-placed inside cabin. Spend the difference on a fun excursion or a cocktail instead (MTT style 😜)! Your wallet will thank you.
Sea sickness
Tips to avoid It and enjoy your cruise
Sea sickness can ruin a cruise if you’re unprepared. Here’s a practical guide to understand, prevent, and relieve symptoms while fully enjoying your time at sea.
| Aspect | Practical Tips | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| Prevention | Choose a cabin in the middle of the ship, near the waterline. Avoid areas where motion is felt most, like the back or upper deck during rough seas. | Stability, comfort, and better motion absorption. |
| Food | Avoid heavy, fatty meals before and during the voyage. Prefer light meals, dry crackers, or fruit. Stay hydrated with water. | Reduces nausea and helps your body adapt to ship movements. |
| Medication & Remedies | Anti-seasickness medications (like meclizine or dimenhydrinate) can be taken before boarding. Acupressure bracelets and ginger chews may also help. | Prevention is better than cure—start before departure. |
| Onboard Activities | Try to stay active by walking on deck or looking at the horizon. Avoid reading or staring at screens during rough passages. | Movement and focusing on the horizon help reduce dizziness. |
| Rest & Relaxation | Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Sleep can help forget unpleasant sensations. Try to relax and stay calm. | Reduces stress and improves tolerance to motion. |
By following these simple tips, sea sickness won’t ruin your cruise, and you can fully enjoy every port and onboard activity!
Excursions
Personal tips
MonTataneTour (MTT) was born because I’ve always been (without bragging) the ultimate deal finder and I’ve always traveled on a budget.
I created this site because after talking to many cruise passengers, I noticed people paying a fortune for onboard excursions when I could reach the same spots for free or with shuttles at four to five times lower cost.
Cruise lines make a killing with excursions, and I never take them! Just like most of my readers.
My anti-scam guide for shore excursions
If you’re looking for info on ports of call, you’ll find everything on my site. Bookmark it and use it before and during your cruises.
Here’s what you’ll get when I talk about a port:
- How to leave the port
- How to get to the city for almost nothing, sometimes free via shuttles
- How to pay less for activities and tours
Today, after 10 years running this site, hundreds of thousands of readers worldwide follow me and use my tips to save big on every cruise. So, thank you!
Complete cruise guide
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MTT wishes you the smoothest and most beautiful cruise!
