I've been on a lot of cruises. I swear by spending at least one port day on the ship.
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- One of the best ways to enjoy a cruise is to stay on the ship while it's docked at least once.
- Ships are often pretty empty on port days, so spas offer deals, and lounge chairs are easy to snag.
- On port days, I love enjoying the ship's amenities at a slow, laid-back pace without crowds.
One of the most exciting parts of a cruise is when the ship docks at its next destination. As passengers rush off the boat to explore the stop, though, I sometimes prefer to stay put.
This may sound odd, but many experienced cruisers like myself know one of the best ways to make the most of this type of vacation is to stay back on the ship during at least one port day.
Skipping a stop may not be for everyone, but it's an especially great option if you're visiting a place you've already seen or one you're not very eager to explore.
In most cases, the shops and casinos will be closed while in port, but there are several benefits to staying on the ship while it's docked.
Skipping port allows me to sleep in and enjoy the day at a relaxed pace
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Itineraries with several ports often require travelers to wake up early if they want to make a timed excursion or have enough hours to enjoy the port before the ship leaves.
However, when I skip the port, I don't need to set an alarm or rush to the buffet to grab an early breakfast.
Instead, I like to enjoy a slow morning with my husband, ordering room service to our cabin or visiting a sit-down breakfast venue instead of the buffet.
Snagging reservations to sit-down spots is much easier, and even if we stop at the buffet, we rarely have to wait in line since most cruisers are already on land by then.
In addition to having a slow start to the day, I've also found that port days are the best time to relax by the pool in peace.
On our last cruise, did my husband and I take turns running to the pool deck at 7 a.m. to reserve lounge chairs (even though you're not supposed to)?
Did we often plan to relax in an onboard hot tub only to change our minds when we realized it was too crowded? And have I attempted to read my book poolside only to be bothered by crowds of loud children? Yes, yes, and yes.
These things don't happen on port days. Now, we know that staying on the ship while thousands of people disembark can be the surefire way to reach these sundeck goals, on our own schedule.
A port day is a good time to seek out onboard deals and book hard-to-snag reservations
If you're not getting off the ship, head to the spa.
It can be tricky to snag appointments on sea days because everyone has the same idea to book a massage or a facial while the ship is sailing and there's nowhere to go.
On port days, you have a better shot at getting your desire time slot and, even better, you might get a discount. Many cruise lines offer port-day spa specials.
I've had great experiences enjoying discounted massages, pedicures, and facials on port days at a discount on both Celebrity and Norwegian ships
Be sure to check your ship's daily program or call the spa directly — the staff is usually happy to answer questions.
By staying on the ship, I have more time to enjoy its many amenities
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My husband and I use port days as a chance to enjoy the ship's amenities and the upgrades we paid for even more.
For example, many ships have great gyms that can be very popular on sea days. They're often less crowded on port days, which are the perfect time to exercise on your own schedule and not have to wait to use your preferred equipment.
On a recent sailing, I paid extra to access the Norwegian Cruise Line Vibe Beach Club — a private pool deck with hot tubs, a dedicated bar, upgraded loungers, and comfy sunbeds.
I went almost every day of my cruise, but it was especially exclusive-feeling on a port day because there were fewer people. I took a nap, read my book, and sipped frozen cocktails in total peace.
After all, there's nothing like avoiding crowds.