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Put a card with your name and address inside your luggage as well as on the outside.

Bring credit cards and travelers cheques instead of large amounts of cash.

Items to pack in your carry-on bag include: perishables, liquor, cash, credit/debit cards, jewelry, business documents, travel and health insurance information, laptops, computer disks, cell phones, c

If you take prescription medication, be sure to pack enough for the entire voyage. Ships tend to only stock general medications and ports may what you need.

Never pack your passport, visa, license, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets in checked luggage. Keep such items with you.

Bring a camera. Don't forget extra film, memory cards, batteries, charger, etc.

It's easy to forget sunscreen and sunglasses with all the excitement of an upcoming cruise. Be sure to pack them if you're traveling to a sunny destination (including Alaska).

Most ships have powerful air conditioning. A sweater or sweatshirt may come in handy.

Almost every ship has laundry service (including dry cleaning), but the tab can add up. Consider bringing a small amount of detergent for washing clothes in your own cabin.

Most ships that have formal events offer tuxedo rental onboard, eliminating the hassle of packing one.

When the dress code for a dining area is described as "formal", women should be prepared to wear cocktail dresses or gowns, while men should consider wearing business suits or tuxedos (though not requ

When the dress code for a dining area is described as "informal", plan to dress "business casual". Women generally wear dresses or pantsuits, while men usually wear lightweight jackets.

When the dress code for a dining area is described as "casual", plan to dress in "golf" attire. T-shirts, jeans and shorts are not allowed.

Though most dining areas on larger ships have a dress code, not all do. Options outside of the main dining room, such as a pizzeria or buffet, will generally allow t-shirts, jeans and shorts.

Even when cruising warm weather destinations, consider packing a sweater/sweatshirt, water repellant jacket and hat.

Footwear should include walking/running shoes and, if you're headed someplace warm, sandals.

Life aboard a cruise ship is generally laid-back and casual. Pack for comfort.

Most ships have exercise facilities and classes. If you plan on working out, don't forget gym clothes and shoes.

Dining preferences such as dining time and traveling companions can be requested when making your cruise reservations. Requests are not guaranteed and all are subject to availability. Table size, tabl

Guests with diet requirements can be accommodated on board. We do not have Dieticians onboard; therefore, we can only offer assistance with simple requests such as the method of preparation of menu it

Reading up on your ports of call (in guidebooks and on the Internet) can greatly enrich your journey. In addition, most ships have a library with information on your destinations.

Some lines help you save time by allowing you to complete your immigration and embarkation forms online. Check with your cruise line.

Check-in and security procedures can be involved. Be sure to arrive at the embarkation area at least two hours prior to sailing. If you board early, there are plenty of activities that begin before th

Leave the ship's contact information with a friend or family member back home. This information can usually be found on the cruise line's web site or by contacting them directly by phone.

When you receive your cruise documents in the mail, take the time to go over them in detail and verify that all the information is correct.