I've worked on cruise ships for over 7 years. Here are 10 things first-time passengers should know.

• I've answered many questions from first-timers on eight ships.

• Before you book, make sure to research what amenities are included with your base fare.

• With the help of the dailyplanner, you can take advantage of the onboard entertainment and dining options.

I have gathered many tips and tricks to help guests make the most of their travels after working on cruise ships for over seven years.

It's important for first-timers to know what to expect when travelling.

Look up what is and isn't included in your base fare

You need to research what dining, beverage, and entertainment options are free on your ship if you think cruises are all-inclusive.

Many passengers assume that eating in the main dining room is an extra cost when they're actually included.

Your room key is actually your lifeline

Most experienced cruisers have a sailing card.

Your ID, room key, credit card, and ticket are all contained in this card. If you want to keep track of it, it's best to buy a lanyard or pouch.

Expect to participate in a safety drill on the first day

Similar to how airlines conduct safety briefings before takeoff, maritime law requires participation in a muster drill.

Before they leave the port, ships need passengers to visit their muster station and watch a safety demonstration.

The COVID-19 Pandemic has changed how many of these drills are done to be more digital and efficient.

There may be a charge for not returning your pool towels

You can check out pool towels by scanning your card. You have to pay a fee if they don't come back by the end of the cruise.

A lot of guests leave their used towels on the pool chair. Drop them off or swap them out for dry ones at the towel stations on the ship.

Tips are automatically charged to your onboard account

Most lines have automatic gratuities that are added to your passenger account.

You can adjust this by visiting the guest services desk. If you want to tip your crew individually, you can either change the amount or remove the charge.

The staff works hard to make your time on board enjoyable, and this is their main source of income.

There are more entertainment options than you may think

I've found that a lot of first-timers don't know that the entertainment program is organized by the cruise director and their staff.

Theme nights, quiz nights, karaoke, game shows, dancing, art classes, and many more are available.

The daily cruise planner is a helpful resource

Every evening, you'll receive a printed cruise planner with the itinerary for the following day, as well as other useful information.

This is a great tool to use. Many cruise lines offer a digital version of their app.

Plan what you're going to wear ahead of time

One of the most frequently asked questions is what to pack.

There are a lot of things to consider, like the weather, dress codes, and themed nights. The cruise line's website contains most of the information.

Many guests assume that the dress codes are compulsory but they are not.

Shore excursions can help first-timers get to know the ports

One of the best ways to get to know a new port is through shore excursions on the ship. They are great for getting a lay of the land and having fun.

The most important benefit of booking through the cruise is that the ship will not leave you behind if your tour runs late. You can't get the same for excursions you book on your own.

There's food everywhere — and, in the main dining room, you can typically order as much as you want

There are a lot of places to eat on board.

In the main dining room, first-timers can usually order as much food as they want for free. A guest ate ten lobster tails.

Don't be afraid of trying things that look good.

More of my advice on cruising can be found here.

You can read the original article.