Cruise secrets: Passengers’ worst cruise ship experiences revealed

Rather than drinking the iced tea served from the juice dispenser, this cruise-goer explained: “I brew a cup of hot tea using three tea bags that I’ve brought from home, and pour it over ice in a large refillable cup. I bring this on board, and fill the rest with water until it’s the proper strength.”

Another user shared their cruise drinking tips, specifically for frozen cocktails.

“Get an empty cocktail cup from the bar in the buffet and get a scoop of coconut sorbet or ice cream from the buffet,” the user advised. “Mix with milk or pineapple juice if available. Add a slice of pineapple from the salad/fruit bar. Add your smuggled on board rum and enjoy your free Pina Colada.”

Beyond alcoholic beverages, users also shared advice on cutting costs during their cruise adventures.

One commentator suggested that cruise goers request for the room mini-refrigerator to be emptied as soon as possible. “Day one, hour one, don’t wait. Have the room steward take every darn thing in the room that costs extra. Funny, even if you don’t use the items, you sometimes can get charged.”

Another recommended one way to take in the sites without spending money with on-board excursions.

“I say skip the excursions offered on board and venture out on your own. However if you do one, look online at the excursions outside of the cruise line. Cruise lines charge a premium and you can book it cheaper. Same excursion, cheaper.”