How to Pack for a Western Caribbean Cruise
By Kent Ninomiya
While packing for a Western Caribbean cruise it is important to think about the types of things you will be doing each and every day of your cruise. Western Caribbean cruises are jam-packed with activities. There will be opportunities to play golf on spectacular courses while in port. You will be changing clothes several times a day and might need special clothing for specific events. The key is to check the cruise itinerary before beginning to pack for a Western Caribbean cruise.
Instructions
Difficulty: Easy
Consider the length of the Western Caribbean cruise. They can range from 3 to 10 days. The most common length is 7 days. Do not feel pressure to bring different things to wear each day. Some items such as bathing suits and formal wear may be used more than once on your cruise.
Take only the golf equipment that you need. A full set of clubs will be heavy and consume a lot of space. Consider taking a short set or just a few clubs that are important to your game. If you don't mind using rental equipment, leave your clubs at home. It will give you much more room for other items needed for your Western Caribbean cruise. Take your golf shoes and gloves as well as any golf balls you prefer.
Pack at least two bathing suits. This way one will always be dry. A Western Caribbean cruise offers many opportunities to get wet. There are pools and hot tubs on the cruise ship and beaches at every port. You can also sunbathe nearly every day.
Pack light-weight casual clothes for each day. These include shorts, T-shirts and sun dresses for the ladies. Expect it to be warm in the Western Caribbean during the day, but chilly inside the air conditioned cruise ship. Bring at least one sweatshirt or sweater. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Break them in before you leave on your cruise. Don't forget to bring a wide-brimmed hat to protect you from the powerful Western Caribbean sun.
Check the cruise itinerary to see how many formal and semi-formal nights there will be on your Western Caribbean cruise. On a 3-day cruise there is typically one semi-formal evening. On a 7-day cruise it is usually one formal and two semi-formal evenings. On a 10-day cruise it is usually two formal and three semi-formal evenings. Men should wear a sport coat and tie for semi-formal nights, and a suit or tuxedo for formal nights. Women should wear dresses for semi-formal nights, and gowns for formal nights. Men can get away with bringing a single suit and several different ties.
Plan ahead for theme nights. Some Western Caribbean cruises have theme nights. These can range from costume parties to sock hops. Cruise ships often rent costumes but require you to order them ahead of time. It is easier and cheaper to bring your own from home.
Pack only the toiletries you will need for your cruise. Pour them into travel size containers so you won't end up bringing unused toiletries home with you. Remember that cruise ships are like hotels. Most provide soap, shampoo and conditioner. Bring prescription medication and eye glasses along with written prescriptions in case you need to replace anything.
Take all documentation with you. This includes passports, cruise vouchers and luggage tags. The cruise line will send these to you before you leave home. If you show up at the cruise ship without these items, they can delay or deny your access to the cruise ship.
About The Author
Kent Ninomiya has 23 years' experience as a TV news anchor, reporter and managing editor. He traveled to more than 100 countries on all seven continents, including Antarctica. He holds black belts in three martial arts, and writes extensively on health and fitness issues. Ninomiya has a Bachelor of Arts in social sciences from the University of California at Berkeley.
