MSC cruise: 5 things to pack on your first cruise trip

South Africa has some of the best beaches in the world, but have you ever wondered what lies beyond the horizon?

The best way to find out the answer to that question is to take a cruise.

Pentravel has some exciting MSC cruise packages you will definitely want to try in 2018.

The cruises are perfect for a romantic weekend away, a solo trip to clear your mind, or as a fun holiday for the entire family (kids under 18 travel for free on some MSC cruises).

From relaxing poolside, playing tennis while pretending to be Serena Williams, to dancing the night away underneath the stars - there is so much to do onboard.

Read: Planning on travelling this holiday? Here are some travel tips

The fun never seems to end – except when you need to call it a night, and even then you are rocked to sleep like a baby.  

You can keep it local and sail from Durban to nowhere and enjoy a few days surrounded by the big, beautiful ocean or you can sail to the Portuguese Island and play some beach sports before enjoying a braai.

But regardless of which package you take, don’t forget to pack these five things:

Carry-on bag

It’s a good idea to keep a small carry-on bag with you when you board while waiting for your bags to be delivered to your cabin. You can keep your travel documents, a pair of flip-flops, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.  

Camera

Those Instagram pictures aren’t going to take themselves! While your smartphone is likely to be sufficient, a camera will make sure you have back-up when your phone battery dies.

A variety of outfits

MSC cruises have a jam-packed itinerary planned for guests, so you will need to pack more than just casual outfits. You will need some formal attire for dinner and a fun party dress for some of the evening activities. It’s all up to you, but it’s better to have different options. You will also need a good mix of shoes, including comfy flip flops, sneakers for working out, and dressy shoes for the evening. And don’t forget to pack socks. Everyone always forgets their socks!

Book

A good read is a must for any trip. A book will keep you company while you tan by the pool and are enjoying some alone time in your cabin.

Binoculars

If you can afford them, binoculars are a good thing to take on a cruise ship. With beautiful views on offer from all angles of the ship, you won’t regret it!

Listen below as we chat to Mel Rebeck and Jasmine Monk, two of Pentravel’s best MSC experts, about what you can expect on an MSC cruise. 

Visit a Pentravel agent at one of their nine branches in KwaZulu-Natal, or check out their site www.pentravel.co.za for more information.