The Ultimate Guide To Cruise Etiquette

Cruise Ship Etiquette While On Board The Ship

Cruise etiquette is important for the same reasons neighborhood etiquette is — you’re sharing a space with thousands of people, all trying to relax and explore. A little awareness goes a long way. Most cruise rules are common sense, but a few — like not saying “Titanic” on board — are not as obvious when you’re cruising for the first time. Even after all these years, it’s still too soon. Here are a few more unspoken cruise ship rules to make the journey smoother for everyone:

Keep Noise Respectful

Noise carries differently on a ship, so keep hallway conversations and balcony theatrics to a minimum. There’s no official curfew, but keeping volumes respectful after hours is a no-brainer that keeps everyone happy.

Onboard Tipping and Staff Etiquette

Crew members work hard — often behind the scenes — so follow the cruise rules for tipping and gratuities provided. Bring a little patience, show genuine gratitude and give staff the space to do their job. Then, you’ll blend in as a thoughtful guest.

Dress Codes

There are no fashion police on board the ship, and no one expects you to dress like you’re attending a royal gala (unless, of course, it’s formal night). However, you’ll find that some dining venues do have a dress code. For example, you can wear jeans to many complimentary restaurants, but certain specialty restaurants require smart casual or semi-formal attire. Do a quick check of your ship's guidelines to keep your outfits flexible.

General Cruise Ship Rules

Different locations will have different protocols around activities like consuming alcoholic beverages, gambling and the type of items you can bring on board. Before you set sail, it’s a good idea to check the Royal Caribbean rules to make sure you’re drawing within the lines on board. 

Now you know how to stay respectful, let’s explore good cruise etiquette in some of the locations you might be visiting.

Staying Formal Yet Fun In Bermuda

Maybe you decide to spend your time in port in Bermuda, checking out the Royal Navy Dockyard, botanical gardens, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity or the boutiques on Front Street in Hamilton. Wherever you go, expect friendly folks who revere politeness.

Greeting Etiquette

Instead of giving a quick "hi" or "hello" as a greeting, try to engage a bit more. If you're meeting someone in a formal setting, a handshake is best. As old-fashioned as it might seem, in Bermuda, addressing others by their title (such as Mrs., Mr. or Ms.) and last name is the ideal way to address someone. Wait for them to give you permission to call them by their first name.

Dining With Locals

As much as I love Bermuda, this beautiful isle may seem quite formal in its cultural energy compared to more carefree Caribbean islands like Jamaica. This comes through during dining etiquette. When sharing a meal in someone's home, you should wait until your host begins eating before starting your meal. Then, graciously thank the host for their efforts and heap on praise — flattery is appreciated.

Keeping the Island Clean

Bermudans take pride in the island's beauty. The squeaky-clean image of everything isn't that way by accident. Not only are beaches pristine, but so are the streets that always look like someone just swept them five minutes ago (because they likely did). Take any litter with you and help the locals uphold the stunning and clean environment they live in.

Mind Your Manners In Mexico

In Mexico, it's all about the handshake. If you're meeting a group of people, it's best to shake hands with each person rather than only addressing the group as a whole.

Respect Social Norms

Though English is commonly spoken throughout Mexico, you'll gain the respect of locals if you try to speak Spanish. Study up on a few useful conversational phrases so you know how to greet others, ask for directions, ask for recommendations, get medical attention and say "thank you." Additionally, it's important to always accept the hospitality offered to you. For example, if someone gives you their seat on public transportation, a beverage when in someone's home or assistance if you look lost, say "gracias" and let them help you.

Dining Etiquette

If you end up dining with locals on your cruise to Mexico, wait for the host to seat you. Don't start eating before everyone at your table has their food and until the host says, "buen provecho," which is like bon appétit. You might get side-eyes if you switch knives and forks between your hands and if you rest your elbows on the table. When you've had enough, lay the knife and fork side by side across the right side of your plate.

Tipping in Mexico

You also want to do the right thing when it comes to tipping. The rules are likely different than what you're used to. While in bars and restaurants, 10-15% gratuity is typical, you might be surprised that at Mexico's gas stations, a tip of five to 10 pesos is standard for attendants who wash your windows and provide other services. In some clubs, fancy restaurants and hotels, you might find a washroom attendant. It's up to you and what you feel comfortable tipping, but 10 or 20 pesos in the tip jar will make their day.

Visiting Markets and Religious Spaces

You can try bargaining at artisan and craft markets, but be polite and don't expect a huge discount. As for what to wear, casual clothes are fine, but when you're in one of Mexico's beautiful cathedrals, churches or chapels, remove your hat and cover your shoulders and knees.

Know What's Ok In Asia

An Asia cruise offers a chance to experience diverse, unique cultures. But there are some similarities with other parts of the world.

Dressing Conservatively

You won't go wrong if you dress conservatively, as in Asia, that's considered respectful. If you're in temples in Thailand and elsewhere in Asia, cover your shoulders and knees. In most places, you should remove your shoes before entering certain businesses and temples.

Local Greetings

In some Asian cultures, like Japan, people bow when greeting one another to show respect, especially to elders. In Thailand, the “wai” is a traditional greeting where you place your palms together in a prayer-like position and bow slightly. Foreigners are not expected to initiate a “wai,” but it is considered an insult not to return one.

Everyday Customs

Avoid major flubs, like tipping in Japan, which is considered an insult. Crossing your fingers in Vietnam can also feel insulting to locals. Study up on the laws, as there are some you'll find surprising — chewing gum, for example, is illegal in Singapore.

Chopstick Etiquette

And who knew chopsticks could be in the middle of controversy? What you don't want to do with your chopsticks is to stick them upright in food (it's associated with death, because upright chopsticks resemble funeral incense sticks). Instead, lay them together on the edge of, or beside, your plate or bowl.