HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF A WEEKEND CRUISE

by Dr. Dave Siefkes

If you’re looking for a quick escape, a weekend cruise can be the perfect fix. It’s three nights of sun, sea, and spontaneous fun. But make no mistake: this isn’t a mini version of a weeklong sailing. The vibe is different, the pace is faster, and the crowd? Let’s just say you’ll want to be strategic if you plan to do more than just float.

Here’s how to get the absolute most out of your weekend at sea.

1. Understand the Crowd:
It’s a Party. Weekend cruises—typically sailing Friday to Monday—tend to draw a younger, high-energy demographic. Think birthday groups, bachelor parties, and college friends looking for a getaway. You’ll find more first-time cruisers, more late-night activity, and yes, more drinking. Expect DJs by the pool before noon, a packed casino, and a lively nightclub scene. It’s not the cruise for a quiet book on deck. Embrace the energy—or plan your escape with spa passes and serene lounges.

2. Time Is Your Currency. Spend It Wisely.
Three nights go by fast. If you try to do everything, you’ll likely miss what matters most to you. Here’s how to prioritize: Board early. Arrive at port early on embarkation day so you can settle in and start your vacation before the first cocktail is even poured. Make reservations in advance—especially for specialty dining, shows, or spa treatments. Many things sell out by day one. Skip the muster drill crowds—complete it virtually as soon as possible.

3. Private Island Strategy:
Go Early, Stay Long If your cruise includes a private island like Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay or Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay, treat it like your main destination. These are fully developed, resort-style islands with waterparks, floating bars, beaches, cabanas, and overwater hammocks. Insider tips: Book cabanas and water park passes early. They are limited availability and worth every dollar if you want space and comfort. Eat on the island rather than returning to the ship. It’s included, fresh, and adds to the escape. Stay late if your ship offers a “late stay” or private island party. This is when the crowds thin and the sunsets shine.

4. Logistics Are Half the Battle
Weekend cruises sail out of major ports like Miami, Port Canaveral, Port Everglades, or Long Beach. If you’re flying in, always arrive the night before. One delayed flight and you’ll watch your ship sail without you. Packing smart helps too: Bring a carry-on with swimwear so you can hit the pool while waiting for luggage. Also pack a gallon zip bag to put your wet swimsuit in before your room is ready. Pre-pay gratuities, drink packages, and Wi-Fi. Fewer decisions for you once onboard and usually less expensive. Check in via the cruise line app, and keep screenshots of boarding documents.

5. Define Your Cruise Goal: Escape, Celebrate, or Recharge?
Your weekend cruise can be whatever you want it to be, but it won’t be everything. Choose your focus: Escape the routine: Unplug, hit the spa, sip champagne on your balcony. Celebrate big: Go in with friends, book a suite, buy the drink package, and dance until the decks shut down. Recharge: Wake up early, walk the deck at sunrise, grab a quiet chair at the solarium, and treat the sea like therapy. Whatever your priority, plan for it. Make decisions before boarding so you don’t waste precious time figuring it out on the fly.

Final Word
Weekend cruises are fast, fun, and full of surprises. They’re also a great way to introduce friends to cruising, celebrate something special, or just feel the ocean under your feet again. Treat a weekend cruise less like a vacation and more like a 48-hour adventure.

Know what you want, move quickly, and savor the moments.
Because Monday comes fast…