Planning a Short Cruise
Short trip, no wasted time: how to plan a two-to-five-night cruise.
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- Choose midweek if you can: Monday-to-Friday sailings are often cheaper and less crowded than weekend ones.
- Check in online early and choose the earliest boarding time, so your first afternoon is part of the vacation.
- Reserve dining and shows before you sail; on a three-night cruise there is no time to wait for a table.
- Drive to the port if you can; it saves both a flight and a hotel.
- Plan a simple port day. A beach and lunch beats a rushed tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pack only a carry-on for a short cruise?
Usually, yes. Three or four nights needs little: swimwear, a couple of casual outfits, one nicer evening outfit, sandals, sunscreen and any medication. Keep documents and medication in your hand luggage.
Should I fly in the day of my cruise?
No. Fly in the day before. On a short cruise, missing the ship means missing the whole trip, and the next port may be in another country.
Is a drink package worth it on a short cruise?
Only if you will drink enough each day to cover the daily price, for every day of the cruise. Many lines require everyone in the cabin to buy it. Do the math before you buy.
Documents
US citizens on a closed-loop cruise (leaving from and returning to the same US port) can usually sail to the Bahamas or Mexico with a government photo ID and an original or certified birth certificate — but a passport makes an emergency flight home far simpler. Check your cruise line’s current rules before you go. Need a hotel near the port? Try RoomsCheap.com.
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