How To Master The Cruising Lingo

Are you a first-time cruiser? Ready to book your cruise but wondering about all the different terms and cruise-related words? Sweat no more! Get ready to master the cruising lingo with us!

Below you will find all the useful words and phrases you need to know before booking your cruise and hopping on your aquatic adventure!

We took a two-week cruise in February 2024 with NCL in the Caribbean and had a blast. While booking the cruise, we also wondered what all the terms meant and which stateroom to book. So, we have compiled a list to help you understand the terminology and save time.

Understanding cruise ship terminology and definitions can help you avoid spending too much time searching for things during your trip.

However, even on board, you will never be completely lost. Each ship provides a deck plan you can familiarize yourself with at home before your vacation. In the meantime, here is a quick overview of key terms to help you master the cruising lingo.

Know Your Cruise Ship

Bow – The front part of the ship.

Starboard – The right-hand side of the ship.

Stern/aft – The back part of the ship, typically near casual dining areas.

Upper deck – The area near the outdoor decks, entertainment, and fun activities.

Bridge – The area from where the captain navigates the ship.

Galley – A ship’s kitchen, with multiple galleys on a cruise ship.

Gangway – The ramp or stairs used to board and leave the ship.

Helm – The section of the bridge containing the steering wheel, accessible only to the crew.

Hull – The exterior of the ship.

Keel – The central bottom part of the ship.

Leeward – The side of the ship most protected from the wind.

Lido – The deck where the outdoor pools are located.

Midship – As the name suggests it is the middle portion of the ship.

Port – The left-hand side when facing forward; just remember that both “port” and “left” have four letters.

Know Cruise Terms

Crossing – A journey across the sea, essentially what a cruise is. For example, you could sail from Barcelona to Miami while passing ports like Seville or Lisbon.

Departure port/embarkation port – The embarkation port is a departure port, it is where you will join the ship at the start of your cruise holiday. For example, our cruise departed from La Romana in the Dominican Republic.

Embarkation – When you board your cruise ship at the start of your trip.

Disembarkation – The process of leaving the ship after completing your cruise.

Port of call – A port of call is a stop along your cruise route where you can enjoy shore excursions. For example, our cruise in the Caribbean departed from La Romana in the DR and stopped at several ports of call, like Aruba, Barbados, St Kitts, etc.

Shore excursion – An off-ship activity at a port of call that can be booked as part of your cruise itinerary. For instance, during a Bahamas cruise, you could book a Stingray Adventure excursion at Half Moon Cay.

Tender – Also known as a lifeboat, a tender is a small boat that ferries passengers from the ship to shore when the cruise ship is anchored offshore.

Know Stateroom Terms

Before booking a cruise, knowing the different types of staterooms available is helpful to ensure a comfortable stay. Whether traveling alone or with a group, this list will help you pick the right option:

Interior or inside stateroom – This type of stateroom is usually the cheapest option and a great way to cruise without breaking the bank. Located in quieter areas of the ship, interior staterooms are perfect for those who prefer a peaceful spot to rest after a day of activities.

Ocean view stateroom – With a window or porthole, an ocean view stateroom allows guests to take in ocean views and nearby ports of call.

Balcony stateroom – This room comes with a small outdoor balcony. A balcony stateroom is ideal for people who want to chill and enjoy the gorgeous views from the comfort of their rooms.

Suite stateroom – Spacious rooms perfect for families, offering plenty of space for everyone to relax during the cruise.

Specialty stateroom – Some cruise lines offer specialty staterooms. These rooms have specific themes designed for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Dining Guidelines

Cruise Casual – The standard attire for most dinners onboard. Men can wear slacks, khakis, jeans, dress shorts, and collared sports shirts. Women may opt for casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, dressy shorts, or jeans.

Cruise Elegant – On one or two evenings, guests are encouraged to wear more formal evening wear in the main dining room and select restaurants. Men should wear dress slacks, and dress shirts, with optional sports coats, while women can wear cocktail dresses, fancier pantsuits, or skirts. Certain restaurants, like the Steakhouse, require refined attire.

Formal Night – Typically occurring on longer cruises, this event invites formal dress. Men may choose suits, ties, or tuxedos, while women can wear evening gowns. Formal attire isn’t mandatory but is welcomed.

Main Seating/Late Seating – This refers to assigned dinner times and seats in the main dining rooms.

Open Seating – Guests can dine without a fixed schedule or pre-assigned seating arrangements.

Know Your Crew

Cabin Steward – Responsible for cleaning and maintaining your stateroom.

Captain – The person in charge of the ship, overseeing the crew and passenger safety.

Cruise Director – Organizes the ship’s entertainment and activities, often acting as the host for onboard events.

Maître d’ – Manages the dining room and seating arrangements.

Porter – Handles luggage curbside on land before you board the ship.

Purser – Manages all onboard billing and financial transactions.

Nautical Terms

Knot – A sea speed measurement, equivalent to one nautical mile per hour.

Mooring – The spot where the ship is docked or tied up in port.

Wake – The trail of water left behind the ship (at the stern) as it moves forward.