Cruising Chaos: Unraveling the Untamed Seas of Etiquette

You find yourself cruising in the buffet line, patiently waiting for your turn to indulge in a delectable bowl of fresh fruit. Standing before you is a fellow passenger who shamelessly picks out specific berries with their fingers! This audacious fruit pilferer happens to be none other than Nick Leighton, an experienced traveler and the host of the weekly etiquette podcast aptly named "Were You Raised By Wolves?"

Travel advisor and owner of Dream Journeys, LLC, Angel Wilson, shared a disturbing incident with CNN Travel via email. While gathered at a long table in a ship's bar venue, a drunken Scotsman approached their group and offered to show them what Scots really wear beneath their kilts. Shockingly, he proceeded to expose himself from the front.

When it comes to rude, uncultured, and completely unacceptable behavior on ships, travel etiquette and cruising experts have witnessed a wide range of examples. Below, these experts share numerous instances of bad behavior that passengers should avoid (and good behavior that they should strive to imitate).

Dont start your cruise on the wrong foot

Passengers line up to board the MSC Virtuosa as it prepares to depart the Port of Southampton, England. Don't expect the ship to wait on you if you're tardy.

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Bad etiquette can start before the ship ever leaves port. Being late, disorganized and impatient during boarding sets the wrong tone for the whole trip.

Maryanne Parker, founder of Manor of Manners, emphasizes the significance of punctuality for our departure and the need to have all necessary documents prepared. She also highlights the importance of patience during this process. In addition, Parker stresses the importance of timeliness for other activities during the cruise, such as shore excursions. In an email interview, she advises passengers to ensure they are not late and have not forgotten any required documents, especially when traveling as a group.

Chair squatting

This cruise ship offers a valuable feature - unoccupied lounge chairs! Feel free to enjoy the sun and claim a chair. However, please refrain from leaving your belongings on a chair and leaving for an extended period of time, as it is unfair to expect fellow passengers to reserve your spot.

The experience of cruising is truly iconic - relaxing on the deck, basking in the sun and admiring the beautiful sea. However, it unfortunately becomes a breeding ground for individuals with poor etiquette.

Leighton explains, "The top complaint on cruises is the act of chair hogging. It is when someone wakes up early, rushes to the pool deck, lays down blankets and personal belongings, and then proceeds to disappear for hours on end. They may go back to bed, have breakfast, or engage in other activities, leaving their chair unoccupied for countless hours."

Do cruise lines have rules against seat saving?

Yes, they do. According to Leighton, Carnival, for example, has a policy of confiscating items left unattended for over 40 minutes. However, it seems that cruise lines are not effectively enforcing their own regulations.

Leighton described this as a recipe for maritime conflict, stating that it is difficult to expect passengers to take on the responsibility of enforcing this rule by removing someone's belongings from their chair. He also expressed concern about the potential awkwardness when the owner of the items returns, if they ever do. Leighton advised that it would be more appropriate to report the issue to a staff member on the cruise ship.

No kidding around

Parents, it's your job to make sure your energized kids don't get so wild around the pool that they disrupt other passengers.

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The negative energy from the deck affects not only the pool area but also other zones.

It is natural for children to become extremely excited near a pool, or anywhere on the ship for that matter. However, this does not imply that parents should completely relinquish control.

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Cruise Critic, an online platform for cruising advice and news, advises parents to be mindful when enjoying the poolside with their children. They recommend cautioning them against performing cannonballs and splashing people who are sunbathing nearby.

Wilson provides additional guidance, emphasizing that parents should keep a close eye on their children unless they are participating in the ship's kids club. It is important to remind children that running down hallways and screaming is considered impolite. Encourage the use of inside voices or whispering when in the hallways.

Elevator agitators

Elevators can be a logjam on ships. Don't push your way onto an elevator while other users are trying to exit.

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Another area prone to issues on a cruise ship is vertical travel. Wilson's concern lies with individuals attempting to squeeze into an elevator while others are still in the process of disembarking. Her opinion is that everyone should be allowed to leave the elevator before anyone attempts to enter it.

Wilson observed a temporary improvement in poor elevator etiquette, albeit short-lived.

"In the early days after the pandemic, it was evident that individuals had higher expectations for personal space in elevators. However, regrettably, people are now reverting back to the crowded conditions from before Covid-19, resulting in many disgruntled passengers who feel extremely uneasy about this return to old etiquette," she explained.

Cruising for a boozing

No one is going to begrudge you a couple of relaxing drinks at sea. But an intoxicated passenger is often an obnoxious passenger.

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"Do you enjoy piña coladas? That's perfectly fine. However, please refrain from behaving in a disagreeable manner regarding it.

"Be aware of your alcohol tolerance! It is not considered endearing when you become excessively intoxicated to the point where you cannot walk, exhibit inappropriate behavior, or vomit in swimming pools," cautioned Wilson. "Avoid berating bartenders for the delay in receiving your drink. They are diligently working and serving you as efficiently as possible."

Parker received a few unsettling reminders about the potential outcomes, ranging from humiliation to fatality, of excessive indulgence.

Before embarking on a wild spree, it is crucial to bear in mind that "we will be interacting with the same individuals for at least another couple of weeks. Furthermore, it is extremely hazardous to be intoxicated while aboard a cruise - we come across alarming reports on a daily basis," she cautioned.

And Leighton reminds people to know - and follow - your cruise lines rules about bringing your own booze onto a ship. (Heres the policy for Royal Caribbean and Disney).

Food fights

Numerous famished travelers indulge in the gourmet experience aboard the majestic Costa Fortuna cruise ship. The esteemed dining rooms and inviting buffets serve as crucial gathering spots where one's exemplary etiquette is of utmost importance. A handful of patrons who lack refinement and manners may disrupt the harmonious ambiance for the entire room.

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Dont be a buffoon at the ships buffets, our experts cautioned.

"Parker emphasized the importance of appearing presentable and clean, stating that although there is no need to go above and beyond, it is crucial to avoid looking sloppy, unkempt, or dirty, as it is highly undesirable to all of us."

"Leighton kindly advises cruisers to treat the staff with respect, particularly during meal times."

Mishaps can occur, such as receiving an incorrect meal or an overcooked steak. It is essential to understand that nobody intends to deliberately ruin your vacation. In the rare event of an issue, it is preferred that we address it courteously. Wilson offers a valuable reminder, whether you are at sea or on land: "If you handle it, it becomes your responsibility. Absolutely refrain from returning it to its original place. Dispose of it in the bin if necessary, but under no circumstances should it be put back. Kindly cleanse your hands and/or use sanitizer upon entering any dining establishment."

Dont be a showtime show-off

Guests aboard the MSC Euribia can partake in the delightful evening entertainment. It is essential to display respect towards the performers and fellow passengers by refraining from exiting during a performance and ensuring that your mobile phone is set to vibrate mode.

Wilson provided some etiquette tips for those attending evening entertainment. She emphasized that it is important not to sit near the front if there is a possibility of leaving midway through the performance. She regarded it as highly disrespectful for performers to witness people walking out while they are still engaged in their act. Wilson suggested waiting until there is a break between songs or scenes before exiting the venue.

"If you must utilize your phone during a performance, please turn the screen brightness all the way down. Please silence all notifications and calls."

Not-so-private balconies

Behold the breathtaking scene of Opunohu Bay in Moorea, French Polynesia. However, it's crucial to bear in mind that performing explicit acts on these balconies, however tempting, may not be as discreet as you think. If you find yourself caught up in the amorous atmosphere, it is wiser to relocate the festivities to the seclusion of a truly private cabin.

It's a fact - embarking on a sea voyage has the potential for romance and passionate displays of affection. However, it is crucial to refrain from engaging in explicit and inappropriate activities on your stateroom balcony that are visible to onlookers from land or other ships.

"Do not engage in any activities on the balcony that you do not want the security to witness or potentially become public on the internet or be utilized as a part of a cruise line gameshow," cautioned Wilson.

"Furthermore, please be considerate of the neighboring rooms by keeping the volume of your music at an appropriate level. It is essential to acknowledge that not everyone shares the same music preferences."

Puff goes the vacation

If you need a smoke break, give your fellow passengers a break and light up in a designated area. Remember that not all outdoor areas are smoking zones.

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According to Cruise Critic, smoking is not allowed on most cabin balconies of ships. Additionally, the smoke has the potential to waft into adjacent balconies. To ensure you are aware of the current regulations, it is advisable to consult your cruise lines' most recent guidelines as they may be subject to updates.

Royal Caribbean states that smoking is allowed in specific outdoor sections, where it must be correctly discarded and never thrown overboard. Similarly, Cunard permits smoking exclusively in designated zones on open decks and within a dedicated cigar lounge which caters solely to cigars and pipes.

Standards might differ

Etiquette expectations may vary depending on the cruise line and destination, as mentioned by the etiquette and cruising experts.

According to Parker, the Caribbean and European vibes on a cruise differ, resulting in different dress codes. In the Caribbean, where the weather is warm and humid throughout the year, a relaxed and revealing attire is expected. On the other hand, when visiting Europe, a more formal dress code is appropriate, as the people there are more traditional. Additionally, considering the seasons and being prepared for them is essential.

During Wilson's 18-night cruise in Japan in April, he observed notable cultural distinctions. The locals displayed greater courtesy by frequently holding doors for others, while also exhibiting a heightened awareness of their surroundings. Notably, Wilson recognized that Asian cruises strongly discourage the practice of crowded elevators.

"On luxury cruises versus mass market cruises, the dress code is undoubtedly more sophisticated, regardless of the destination," stated Wilson.

Ultimately, Leighton emphasized that adhering to basic etiquette, which applies to everyday life, will prove beneficial during your time aboard a cruise ship.

The important thing here is to have basic good manners, showing respect, mindfulness, and acknowledging the existence of others, according to Leighton. It would be a nice bonus if you can also learn and follow the local etiquette, but good manners are the minimum requirement.