Inspect Your Cabin

Before taking in the finer points of your cabin, ensure that your bags have arrived. Do not hesitate to call the purser if they haven't, especially if sailing time is drawing near.

Next, see that everything is in order. If there are two twin beds instead of the double bed you wanted, or other serious problems, ask to be moved before the ship departs. Unless the ship is full, you can usually persuade the chief housekeeper or hotel manager to allow you to change cabins. It is customary to tip the stewards who assist you in moving to another cabin.

Since your cabin is your home away from home for a few days or weeks, everything should be to your satisfaction. Take a good look around: Is the cabin clean and orderly? Do the toilet, shower, faucets, and air-conditioning work? Check the telephone and television. Again, major problems should be addressed immediately. Minor concerns, such as not enough bath towels or pillows, can wait until the frenzy of embarkation has subsided.

Your dining-time and seating-assignment card may be in your cabin; now is the time to check it and immediately request any changes. The maître d' usually will have set up shop in one of the public rooms specifically for this purpose.