Every ship’s officer I’ve queried has admitted that the most difficult cruise of the year is the Christmas cruise. Not only are ships full of passengers expecting a fabulous holiday — hey, you paid enough! — but the staff and crew, who miss their own families, work overtime.
One year, aboard Celebrity Cruises’ Galaxy, I walked into the gift ship on December 25th and encountered a teary staff member manning the register. “I just called my family in Scotland. I missed the Queen’s Christmas radio broadcast,” she sniffled.
For many of us Christmas itself is a stressful time of year. Add to that the hassle of flying to a warm-weather port to take the ship (”will my luggage arrive?”) and worrying about whether the kids, spouse, family or friends traveling with us will have a good time. Oh, and buying presents that will fit in the luggage.
Having braved two Christmas cruises I have a few tips to pass along.
* Let Go of Expectations. I think many of us believe that since we’ve paid a lot of money the cruise line owes us a fabulous Christmas. While it’s true that staff go out of their way to create a festive onboard experience (strolling carolers, a tree and decorations, Santa arriving for the kids, a traditional meal), it’s still a cruise ship. They can’t manufacture holiday spirit, family harmony and happiness. You bring that with you. So let go of what it should be and decide to enjoy whatever you find.
* Decorate your cabin. Bring your own decorations and create a festive stateroom. I’ve taken strings of lights (don’t forget an extension cord and tape), a small tree and stung decorations around my cabin. You can also decorate the door of your cabin with holiday paper, which adds a cheery touch.
* Gifts: Think Creatively. Limit presents to those that fit in your carry-on bag. Personally I love gifts that can be used right away. For example, search Google for special activities in port such as helicopter tour, golf at a famous course, a spa day at an elegant hotel or privite snorkeling excursion. Many cruise lines allow you to book shore excursions before departure. Teenagers would probably love an email package for use in the ship’s cyber cafe. Other possible presents include a digital camera or camcorder for use during the cruise.
