Cruises are designed for relaxation and enjoyment, offering a getaway from the hustle and bustle of daily life. However, even this floating paradise can turn into a frustrating experience. Recognizing and steering clear of these types of personalities can enhance your cruising experience significantly.
The Treadmill Hogs
Free gym access is a perk on many cruises. However, treadmills overlooking the ocean are prime real estate, and lines can form quickly, especially on bad weather days. Inconsiderate gym-goers who linger for extended periods on cardio machines while others wait can be an actual source of frustration. Be mindful of your workout duration, especially during peak times.
The Buffet Bully
With a single-minded determination to fill their plate like a human mountain, they shove and elbow their way through the buffet line, disregarding personal space. Their mission is to conquer the entire breakfast spread in one go. Remember, the delicious dishes will be replenished throughout the cruise, so there’s no need to rush or fight for your food.
The Loud Taker
Such individuals can be a nuisance, particularly in confined spaces like dining rooms or lounges. They seem oblivious to their volume, disrupting the peaceful atmosphere with their boisterous conversations. Respecting others by keeping conversations at a reasonable volume is vital for maintaining a serene environment.
The Chair Hogs
These early birds come to the pool deck before dawn to stake their claim on prime loungers, leaving their towels acting as territorial flags. Moreover, they often disappear for hours, leaving others scrambling for a spot to soak up the sun. Fortunately, some cruise lines have policies against reserving loungers for extended periods.
The Drunk Partier
Drunk partiers often display antics that quickly become bothersome. Excessive drinking leads to loud, obnoxious behavior, which can disturb fellow passengers. Unfortunately, these individuals disregard personal space and can even become aggressive. Responsibly enjoying a few drinks enhances the fun without infringing on others’ enjoyment.
The Line Jumper
Whether for the main dining room, the elevator, or the shore excursion tender, they believe the queuing rules don’t apply to them. Fellow travelers who are queue-crashing cruisers disrupt everyone’s flow. A gentle reminder or letting a crew member know can help ensure a smoother experience.
The Elevator Abuser
Cruise ship elevators can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Unless you have mobility limitations, young children, or a lot of luggage, consider taking the stairs for short trips between decks. It’ll save you time waiting, help you get some exercise, and avoid holding up others who might need the elevator more.
The Unsupervised Child
Unsupervised children sprinting amok can turn a relaxing voyage into a chaotic experience. Such incidents disrupt other passengers’ enjoyment, and running kids might splash in the pool, run through hallways, or cause commotion in dining areas. Cruise lines tend to offer many activities for kids to engage in safely.
The Selfie Addict
Every corner of the ship becomes their photo studio. Armed with selfie sticks or impressive wingspans, these shutterbugs are on a mission to capture every moment for their social media audience. Beautiful destinations become mere backdrops for their self-portraits, and relaxation takes a backseat to documenting the trip.
The Smokers
Generally, liners strictly prohibit smoking on guest balconies due to fire hazards and the discomfort it causes other passengers. Designated smoking areas are available onboard for those who choose to smoke. In recent years, there have been reports of illegal substance use on balconies.
The Serial Complainer
No detail escapes their critical eye. From lukewarm soup to slightly slow service, they need help with everything. They become walking complaint machines, voicing their dissatisfaction to anyone within earshot. While it’s okay to bring genuine concerns to the crew’s attention, focusing on the positive aspects of the voyage is also necessary.
The Overly Affectionate Couple
Indeed, public displays of affection are natural, but there’s a time and place for everything. Couples who get overly affectionate in public spaces, like constant smooching or cuddling, can make others uncomfortable, especially for families or those who prefer a more modest environment.
The Know It All
By proclaiming their vast cruising experience, these individuals offer unsolicited advice and critiques about everything from the best shore excursions to the most efficient way to pack. Such self-proclaimed cruise connoisseurs can be overbearing. A polite smile and a “thanks for the tip” is usually enough to decline their expertise politely.
The Germ Spreaders
Food on a vessel is undoubtedly a feast for the senses, but hygiene is key to a healthy vacation. Sadly, some passengers skip the handwashing stations before hitting the buffet line. It can be a major turn-off for others, as germs spread easily in crowded environments. We recommend you do your part to stay healthy.
The Human Roadblock
Staff have a nickname for a specific passenger type: the “traffic cone.” Like those bright orange obstacles, these oblivious cruisers come to a complete standstill in busy hallways or restaurant entrances as they chat and linger, forcing everyone to maneuver around them.
