I Like It!Family Vacation: Tips for the First Day of a Cruise
Where to go and what to do as soon as you board
Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On
After boarding your ship, your large pieces of luggage may still be with the ship staff, awaiting delivery to your room. So be sure to pack in your carry-on or day pack all the items you'll need for the next few hours. Melissa Paloti of
CruiseCritic.com suggests keeping a change of clothes if you're switching climates or coming straight from the airport, and the whole family's swimsuits for a dip in the pool while you wait for your room.