Do’s and Dont's For Your First Sixthman Cruise

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So you’re booked for your first epic cruise vacation with us and looking for some guidance? Well you’re in luck! I was a guest just like you a few years ago going on my first Sixthman cruise and now have the benefit of seeing everything from both perspectives as a music fan turned Sixthman Warrior. Warped Rewind at Sea 2017 was my first experience with festival cruises and as promised it was in fact my “best vacation ever”– but here’s a few things I wish I had known back then to make it even more incredible.

Kalie’s top tips to make sure you get the most out of your first Sixthman cruise:

DO:

WARP17 - Derek Sanders Mayday Parade.JPG

Chatting with Derek Sanders of Mayday Parade

  • Check out the online schedule in advance – Usually a few weeks before we set sail a schedule will be released online for you to plan out which shows/activities you want to attend. While you will get a copy of that schedule on board and could totally go with the flow like I first did, it helps a ton to have an idea of what your “must see’s” are for each day.

  • Hit up the Merch Store on Day 1 or Day 2 – If you’re looking to bring home a souvenir to remember your time at sea, be sure to visit the Merch Store early to get the best selection of sizes and items! (I went on the last day and the t-shirt size I needed was sold out...rookie mistake)

  • Interact with the artists - If you see your favorite bands around the boat or after a show, feel free to say hi or strike up a quick conversation because we’re all here to have a good time!(just don’t go overboard and respect their boundaries...watch this for a quick etiquette lesson on interacting with artists: https://vimeo.com/51636860)

  • Book an excursion – Part of the fun on any cruise is exploring the port stop! While you could always wander around on your own, Norwegian Cruise Line “NCL” has a great assortment of excursions which will definitely enhance your experience. Plus, when you book an NCL excursion you are guaranteed to be back on time and NOT miss the boat!

  • Participate in theme nights – Something unique about cruise festivals compared to a regular music festival are the theme nights aka giant costume parties on board! You’ll know what the themes are in advance so pack a costume and join in, it’s way more fun when everyone participates!

DON’T:

  • Forget your Passport/Proper Identification – While this didn’t happen to me thankfully, I can’t stress this one enough. If you forget your passport or other approved travel identification, you cannot board the ship (and yes this does happen!).

  • Miss the “Family Photo” – Usually as the ship pulls away from the cruise terminal and sets out to sea there’s a big show onPool Deck where everyone gathers for a “sailaway” toast & family photo. It’s the unofficial start of your vacation and being part of the photo is a great memory!

  • Only eat at the buffet – There are tons of free and specialty dining options on board! While the buffet is definitely convenient if you’re running from show to show, take advantage of everything else that is offered(a lot is already included in your cruise fare).

  • Worry about making friends – If you’re flying solo or only know your cabinmate, I can guarantee you will make friends on board.I was traveling by myself for the first 2 days of the trip (my cabinmate hopped aboard at our port stop) and found so many awesome people to talk to, even from the moment I got to the cruise terminal. You’re always in good company when everyone shares a passion for the music!

  • Spend too much time in your cabin – As much as I thought I’d be relaxing in my cabin reading a book out on the balcony, I soon realized there was way too much fun going on all day and night all over the boat! So definitely recharge in your cabin when you need to but be sure to get back out there and enjoy every second of the party –the memories are definitely worth it!

Warped Rewind at Sea2017 Family Photo

Warped Rewind at Sea2017 Family Photo