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How to Stay Festive and Stress-Free on a Christmas Cruise

Spending the Christmas holidays plowing the ocean waves on a festive cruise is a fantastic way to embrace the festive season. Cruises departing from Florida, Seattle, New York, or California are an enchanting alternative to a traditional Christmas and a great way to mix things up.

But the holidays can be a stressful time, wherever you are. Whether you are sailing through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean or exploring Florida’s hidden gems, it is still important to pay attention to your stress levels and find ways of maintaining the festive spirit.

So if you are planning on sailing away for a Christmas cruise adventure, here are a few tips on how to stay festive and stress-free on your magical maritime getaway!

Plan Ahead for Festive Fun

While planning and research are rarely considered a huge part of the fun, a little preparation in advance can help make the main event a far more enjoyable and stress-free occasion. Before embarking, take a look at the planned festive events and holiday activities, and work out which ones are unmissable and which ones you want to avoid. That way, you can make the most of your time on board ship and stop worrying about FOMO!

Deck the Halls – or Your Cabin

Bringing a full-size Douglas fir on board might be frowned upon, but you can still make your cabin a festive delight with some slightly subtler Christmas decorations. Pack your bags with fairy lights, tinsel, stockings, and other small ornaments, and add a magical touch of seasonal joy that will keep you in the mood all the way through your trip.

Gifts and Stocking Stuffers

While a cruise ship is a very social space, it can feel slightly lonely at Christmastime, if you are away from your friends and family. A great way to make a new Christmas community is to pack small, thoughtful gifts and stocking stuffers for your fellow passengers, spreading holiday cheer and bringing a little extra joy to others. You could even consider organizing a gift exchange, especially if you are stopping at a few interesting ports before Christmas day!

Festive Attire

Christmas cruises are always full of festive events and seasonal activities, which are a great excuse to get glamorous and put on your finest festive attire! Whether this means vibrant Christmas sweaters, Santa hats, something glitzy with sequins, or full black tie, embracing the holiday spirit by dressing up is a great way to enjoy yourself.

Schedule Some ‘Me Time’

Taking time for yourself is a crucial part of ensuring stress-free celebrations. While it can be tempting to try and enjoy every single second of your cruise, putting extra pressure on yourself to ‘have fun’ even if you are feeling tired, unsociable, or just a little grumpy, can be damaging. Allow yourself time to relax and check in on how you are feeling, and don’t forget to pamper yourself with a few spa treatments, a massage, or even just a well-timed nap!

Connect with Family Back Home

Don’t forget that Christmas is a time for family, and there’s no reason you can’t connect with your loved ones back home, even if you are sailing around the world! Arrange for a video call on Christmas morning or send a few heartfelt messages to let them know you are thinking of them.

Heading off on a cruise vacation over the festive season is a charming and alternative way to spend Christmas. It can be a heady mix of fun and excitement, but it is important to remember to be mindful of your state of mind, even when you are in the midst of seasonal celebrations. Staying stress-free is just as important as being festive and will help you enjoy your Christmas adventure all the more!

Amber Louchart
Author: Amber Louchart

Amber is the proud mother to four beautiful children, Damian (27), Rosaleigh (14), Carlyn (11), and Naomi (8). Her family also includes four cats. She loves being a stay-at-home mom and feels blessed to be able to care for her children full-time and provide them with so many opportunities through Metro Detroit Mommy. In addition to Metro Detroit Mommy, Amber has a passion for hosting karaoke with Malibu Entertainment.  She enjoys the metro Detroit nightlife especially, singing, dancing and meeting new people.