Truth or Myth: 30 Cruise Secrets You Might Not Believe

Can you bring your own wine?
✅ Truth!
Many cruise lines let you bring a small amount of wine or champagne, usually one or two bottles per cabin. It’s perfect for a quiet drink on your balcony. Hard liquor is not allowed, and if you bring too much, the staff may keep it until the end of your trip. Always check the rules before you pack your favourite bottle.

Do ships really have a morgue?
✅ Truth!
Every big cruise ship has a small, quiet morgue hidden below deck. It sounds a bit strange, but it’s there for practical reasons, especially on long trips with many older guests on board. Most passengers never see or hear about it. If needed, the crew handles everything with great care and respect, so your holiday stays calm and comfortable.

Everyone gets seasick?
❌ Myth!
Most cruise ships have special fins under the water to help the ship move smoothly. Because of this, many people don’t feel any waves at all. Some feel a little dizzy on very windy days — but fresh air on deck or a cup of ginger tea helps a lot. And if you are really worried, bring seasick pills. It’s better to have them and not need them.

Is tipping included in your ticket?
✅ Truth!
On most ships, tips — or gratuities — are added to your cabin bill automatically. This money is shared by many crew members you never see, like kitchen staff and cleaners. If someone makes your trip extra special, it’s always nice to say thank you with a small extra tip in cash at the end.

Is there really a secret deck on board?
✅ Truth!
Many big ships have small open decks that feel hidden because they are hard to find — like a quiet corner at the front or a tiny platform at the very back. They are not for VIPs, but anyone can discover them. Frequent cruisers often love these spots for peaceful sea views, away from the busy pool deck.

Can you sneak into crew areas?
❌ Myth!
Crew-only zones are private for a reason — they are tiny homes, break rooms, and busy workspaces. Some curious guests try to wander in, but security and signs keep most people out. If you get caught behind the wrong door, you’ll get a polite but firm escort back to guest areas. Best to stick to your side of the ship!

Can you really live on a cruise full-time?
✅ Truth!
Some people really do it — they book back-to-back cruises for months or even years. It’s like living in a moving hotel with no house chores and new views every few days. Retired couples do this to see the world slowly, and some even say it costs less than a care home!

Do cruise ships dump waste into the sea?
❌ Myth!
In the past, this sometimes happened, but modern ships must follow strict rules. Food waste is treated and often broken down in special machines. Wastewater goes through cleaning systems before it’s released far from shore. Big ships even sort plastic, glass and cans, just like at home. So, no, the ocean doesn’t become your rubbish bin.

Do you have to pay for laundry?
✅ Truth!
Yes — unless you book a suite or reach a high loyalty level, washing clothes on board costs extra. Many ships have self-service laundries with coin machines and dryers. Some guests skip it completely and just pack extra clothes for the trip.

Do cruise ships have their own money?
❌ Myth!
No special coins on board — everything you buy goes on your cabin card. Drinks, souvenirs, spa treatments: it’s all added up. At the end of your cruise, you pay the total in your own currency or in US dollars, depending on the line.

Do people gain weight on a cruise?
✅ Truth!
Most guests do gain a little — and most don’t mind. With buffet breakfasts, long lunches and five-course dinners, it’s easy to enjoy a bit more than usual. Add soft ice cream and cocktails by the pool, and a kilo or two extra is almost part of the holiday souvenir!

Can you watch movies under the stars?
✅ Truth!
Many modern ships have a big screen on deck, right by the pool. In the evening, they show family films or blockbusters. You can watch with popcorn and a blanket, feeling the sea breeze — a small outdoor cinema at sea.

Are all cabins windowless?
❌ Myth!
Not at all. Inside cabins have no windows, but many cabins have a big window or even a private balcony. Some luxury suites feel like a small holiday apartment, with a sofa, bathtub and your own sea view — pure comfort at sea.

Is there a daily printed program?
✅ Truth!
Yes. Each night, your cabin steward leaves a paper guide with all events for the next day: show times, meal hours, special offers. Many guests read it at breakfast. Some ships also show it in the cruise app, but the paper copy feels cosy and old-school.

Are excursions always better than going alone?
❌ Myth!
Booking a tour is easy and safe, but exploring by yourself can be fun too — and often cheaper. Many ports are close to town, perfect for a gentle walk, a coffee and a little adventure without a big group. Sometimes the best stories happen when you get a little lost.

Do all ships have slides and go-karts?
❌ Myth!
Some of the newest mega ships have wild extras: big water slides, rope courses or even tiny racetracks. But many classic ships keep it simple — a pool, a few hot tubs, and a quiet deck for reading. So check your ship’s features before you pack your swimsuit and racing helmet!

Are last-minute deals real?
✅ Truth!
Yes — sometimes you can grab a great price just a few weeks before sailing. It’s cheaper if you are flexible with your cabin and where you want to go. But the best cabins and tours often sell out early, so it’s always a little gamble. Good places to check are VacationsToGo.com, CruiseDirect.com and the cruise line’s own website — they often post surprise discounts.

Is everything included?
❌ Myth!
Your cruise fare covers your cabin, most meals and entertainment. But drinks, Wi-Fi, spa treatments and special restaurants cost extra. Many first-timers get a small surprise at checkout — so always read what is (and isn’t) included. For tips on food and extras, check my Cruise Dining Guide.

Can the captain really marry couples at sea?
✅ Truth!
On some ships, the captain has the power to say “I now pronounce you…” right in the middle of the ocean. Many couples love this idea for a special wedding. Some cruise lines even offer packages with flowers, cake and a sunset ceremony.

Do cruises stop for bad weather?
✅ Truth!
Bad storms rarely stop a cruise completely, but they can change the plan. Captains watch the weather closely and often choose a safer route. Sometimes a port is skipped or replaced with a sea day. It’s all about keeping guests safe and comfortable — so pack a good book, just in case.

Do people fall overboard often?
❌ Myth!
It is very rare and almost never an accident. Ships have high railings and security cameras everywhere. Most stories come from guests behaving carelessly or ignoring safety rules. So stay smart near the edge — and hold your phone tight when taking selfies!

Is it true that cruise staff remember your name?
✅ Truth! 

rights to MSC

Yes — and it surprises many first-timers! Dining staff and cabin stewards often learn your name and your coffee order by day two. It’s a small touch that makes a big ship feel friendly. For more about the people who make cruising special, read my Crew Guide.

Can you use your phone in the middle of the sea?
✅ Truth!
Most ships have satellite internet and special roaming, but it can be expensive and sometimes slow. Many guests switch to airplane mode and enjoy a few tech-free days. If you want to stay connected, check Wi-Fi packages before you sail.

Is room service available 24/7?
✅ Truth!
Many cruise lines offer room service day and night, so you can enjoy a sandwich or small snack without leaving your cabin. Some items are free, but late-night orders or special treats may cost a few dollars extra. It’s perfect for a lazy breakfast in bed or a midnight tea after a long day at sea.

Can you get free drinks on a cruise?
❌ Myth!
Water, basic tea and coffee are usually free, but soft drinks, fresh juices and alcohol cost extra. Many guests buy a drinks package to save money. Without it, your daily cocktails and cappuccinos can quickly become the most expensive part of your holiday bill.

Do cruise ships run out of food?
❌ Myth!
Cruise kitchens are experts at planning. Chefs order huge amounts of fresh food before sailing and often restock in ports along the way. It’s rare to run out — even if everyone suddenly wants extra pancakes at breakfast and extra desserts at dinner.

Can you swim while the ship is sailing?
✅ Truth!
Yes! Most pools and hot tubs stay open while the ship moves across the sea. On very windy days, staff may close the pool for safety. But on calm days, there’s nothing like floating in warm water while watching the ocean roll by.

Do all cruises have a formal night?
✅ Truth!
Almost every cruise has at least one evening when guests dress a little nicer. Some people love it and wear shiny shoes, ties or sparkly dresses. Others keep it simple with a nice shirt or blouse. A tuxedo is never required — comfort first!

Are pets allowed on cruises?
❌ Myth!
Most cruise lines do not allow pets, except trained service animals for guests with special needs. One famous exception is the Queen Mary 2 — it has a real dog kennel for four-legged friends on its long trips across the Atlantic Ocean.

Is there free ice cream on a cruise?
✅ Truth!
Yes! Many ships have a soft serve machine near the pool or buffet. It’s free and open almost all day, which makes it very tempting after lunch or dinner. Some ships also sell fancy gelato or big ice cream sundaes for a small extra price.