As cruises are more popular than ever among Brits, a former crew member spoke to the Express, revealing the best tricks for clients to have the best trip, Devon Live reports.
Paul told every secret he wished he could have told the holidaymakers back then - but couldn’t.
While some activities might seem peculiar, fun and intriguing to cruisers, Paul warns about rips off, such as the casino and buying onboard photos.
“I wish I could tell passengers not to buy any photos of themselves on board. Way too pricey!” Paul said.
“Also to tell them not to play the casino slot machines.
“They set the payouts so low that hardly anybody wins a jackpot.
“And the lines can get away with it because we are in International Waters.”
Booking a cabin might look easier than it actually is, but Paul knows how to pick the best ones for the best prices.
He explained that getting a balcony cabin on cruises is not worth it.
“[I wish I could tell passengers] not to get a balcony cabin, waste of money for such a small area and if you want to enjoy yourself, you don't want to be in your cabin too much anyways.”
Being extra-nice to staff is a sure way to get a great pay-off.
“Tip your Hotel Steward the first day in cash to ensure you get lots of freebies and better service throughout the cruise,” he said.
“Ask them if you can get any amenities for them while you are off the ship and they cannot get off that port day. You will be their Rock Star for life.”
One last thing: avoid the hot tubs - at all costs.
Don't use the hot tubs,” he told Express.co.uk. “All cruise lines don't run them hot enough.
“Trust me it's easy to pick up some bacterial infections like ringworm because of this.”
It’s also worth making sure you choose the right ports to disembark - not all stops will appeal to everyone.
