I've Been On 14 Cruises So Far. Here Are 9 Things Every Traveler Should Do To Have A Perfect Trip.

After going on 14 cruises, I've picked up lots of tips to ensure the best trip possible.

Kelly Magyarics

• I love cruising and have picked up lots of tips to ensure the best possible experience on board.
• To avoid any possible delays, I I highly recommend building ample travel time into your itinerary.
• If your budget permits, it's worth booking a private enclave or treating yourself to other upgrades.

Cruises are a lot of fun but can require some planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. Over the past few years, I've been on cruises to places like the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal.

However, I used to be cruise-averse, mainly because of the stories I'd heard about overcrowded buffet lines and pool decks, and being trapped on a ship with thousands of people.

I've since come to enjoy most things about this kind of trip, mainly because I've learned there's an itinerary and a ship for every type of cruiser. I've also gleaned tips and hacks during my journeys to avoid the crowds and make the experience feel more special.

Here are nine tips I've learned that have made sailing less stressful and more enjoyable.

Arrive the day before the cruise departs

Although it might be tempting to save money on a hotel by booking a flight for the day you depart, the potential stress isn't worth it.

Delays and cancellations due to weather or mechanical issues might mean that you arrive at the dock after embarkation — and the ship won't wait for you.

I highly recommend building ample travel time into your itinerary — plus, you'll get to start your vacation a day sooner.

Book restaurants as soon as you board

Kelly Magyarics

Getting on the ship is exciting, and you'll understandably want to explore the pool deck or hang out on your balcony. Before you do, though, hit up the concierge to make restaurant reservations.

The most popular restaurants and reservation times will likely book up quickly, especially on sea days when everyone is on board.

Getting your preferred times and spots for dining will give you peace of mind — especially if you're cruising with a large group — allowing you to relax and enjoy your sailing.

Consider skipping port to enjoy the ship

Conventional wisdom might lead you to believe that a day at sea is the best time to enjoy all the ship has to offer.

When all the passengers are on board, though, the pool will likely be woefully crowded, spa appointments may be difficult to book, and there will probably be long lines for waterslides and other attractions.

If your cruise is making a port stop at a locale that doesn't really excite you, there's no crime against staying on board and blissfully having the ship practically to yourself.

Book excursions directly through the cruise line

Kelly Magyarics

If you do a Google search for tours and things to do at your various port stops, you'll inevitably find lots of operators whose prices are cheaper than similar activities offered through your cruise line.

However, if you book the official excursions, the ship's activities director knows where you are. So, if there's a delay or hold-up getting back to the ship, they'll wait for you.

On the flip side, if you do your own thing and then hit traffic after sunbathing at a local beach in Aruba or going on a taco crawl on Cozumel, you may end up getting left behind.

Spring for breakfast in bed

If waiting in line for pancakes and bacon first thing in the morning isn't your thing, I recommend ordering room service at least once during your trip.

The service may incur a small surcharge, but sipping coffee while enjoying an omelette and fruit platter on your balcony is the perfect, solitary way to start the day.

Check out the back of the ship

Kelly Magyarics

My favorite part of the ship is the back, referred to as the "aft."

It's relaxing and borderline mesmerizing to watch the wake the ship leaves behind. However, in talking with my fellow passengers over the years, not everyone heads back there.

Your ship may even have a bar or restaurant overlooking the wake. Even if it doesn't, I recommend grabbing a coffee or a cocktail and heading to the back of the ship, which is arguably the most zen-like area.

Consider staying in a private enclave

If your cruise line offers it and you can afford it, book a cabin in a private enclave, like the Yacht Club on MSC Cruises, The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line, and the Suite Class on Royal Caribbean.

Each aforementioned experience comes with amenities like a more sumptuous cabin, and a separate pool deck, restaurant, and lounge — all of which feel like an oasis from the crowds.

These VIP passengers also get priority check-in and a butler who can make the best reservations for restaurants and shows.

Although the experience doesn't come cheap, it lends a feeling of exclusivity to the on-board experience.

Bring attire for theme nights

Kelly Magyarics

FOMO can be strong on gala night, white night, or for a poolside pajama party if you don't have something fitting to wear.

Check the cruise line's website or app ahead of time to find out if there are theme nights — and pack accordingly.

On cruise lines with dress codes, you may be excluded from certain dining options if it's an elegant night and you show up in shorts and flip-flops.

Treat yourself to one special experience

Even if you're budget-conscious, it's nice to upgrade yourself during your cruise.

This could mean a multi-course tasting menu at one of the upscale dining concepts, an afternoon at the thermal spa or hydrotherapy circuit, a high-end excursion like a private sunset sail, or an expensive bottle of wine that's not included in your drink package.

Sure, part of the allure of a cruise is that many things are already included, but adding something extra can make the trip more memorable.