Ready to Set Sail from the “Venice of America”? Fort Lauderdale Cruise Port — officially known as Port Everglades — is one of the busiest cruise hubs in the world. With its golden beaches, buzzing nightlife, and location just minutes from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood...
What to pack on your cruise beach excursion
Maximizing your cruise beach excursion
A day at the beach during a cruise is unlike any other. Imagine stepping off the ship and being greeted by azure waters, golden sands, and the gentle murmur of waves—a picturesque setting where relaxation and adventure coexist. However, to make the most of these idyllic moments, being well-prepared is key. Knowing what to do on cruise port days can transform a simple beach visit into an unforgettable excursion. Whether you're looking to bask in the sun, dive into aquatic adventures, or explore the local culture, planning ahead is crucial.
The question of what to wear on a cruise during the day has a simple answer: comfort, functionality, and style. Light, breathable fabrics are your best friends, coupled with swimwear that enables you to dive into spontaneous water activities. Yet, the essence of your preparation lies in your cruise beach bag—a treasure trove of essentials that ensures a seamless beach day. From sun protection and hydration to entertainment and personal care, every item in your bag plays a pivotal role in crafting the perfect beach experience.
As we delve deeper, we'll uncover the intricacies of what to bring on a beach day during your cruise excursion, ensuring you're equipped for every possibility. Whether it's your first cruise or you're a seasoned voyager, join us as we navigate through the essentials of a fulfilling beach excursion, making every moment ashore as enriching as those spent on the open sea.
What to Pack for a Cruise Beach Day: 12 Essentials
Short on time? Toss these in your beach bag and you’re set. Links marked * are affiliate links — as an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
- Sun Protection
- Hydration
- Protect Your Gear
- Swim & Snorkel
- Water Shoes
- Beach Towel
- Beach Bag
- Handy Extras
1) Reef-Safe Sunscreen (SPF 50)
The Med/Caribbean sun is no joke and sand + water reflect UV. Go reef-safe mineral (zinc oxide), water-resistant, and reapply every 2 hours.
- Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB, SPF 50
- Oxybenzone & octinoxate-free (reef-friendlier)
- Travel size for carry-on days
2) Collapsible Water Bottle
Refill onboard, roll it up when empty ashore. Saves money, space, and plastic.
- Food-grade silicone, leakproof lid
- Clips to your bag; folds flat for security checks
- 500–750 ml sweet spot for hot days
3) Floating Waterproof Phone Pouch (IP68)
Keep the phone safe from surf and sand, still usable for photos and Face ID.
- IP68 waterproof; lanyard for hands-free
- Float insert so it doesn’t vanish in a wave
- Clear touch window for pics/videos
4) Mask & Snorkel (Dry-Top)
Dry-top valves block splashes so you’re not drinking seawater between fish sightings.
- Pure Silicone - FDA regulation compliant.
- Clearvu Tempered Glass lenses provide superior clarity
- Hyperdry Elite - DRY TOP - The latest innovation in dry snorkel technology keeps the snorkel completely dry by quickly and efficiently closing the tube opening
5) Quick-Dry Water Shoes
Hot sand, slick rocks, mystery shells—protect the feet and keep your dignity.
- Grippy sole; drains fast
- Breathable uppers; snug fit for swimming
- Great for kayaks, tenders, rocky entries
6) Microfiber Beach Towel
Dries fast, packs tiny, and doesn’t bring half the beach back to your cabin.
- Quick-dry microfiber, sand-shake-off weave
- XL size that still rolls small
- Loop for hanging on a chair/rail
7) Mesh Beach Tote (with Zipper Pocket)
Airflow for wet gear; pockets for sunscreen and snacks; zipper for valuables.
- Multiple exterior pockets + internal zipper pouch
- Wide straps; easy to rinse clean
- Optional cooler pocket = cold drinks all day
8–12) Small Extras That Save the Day
Beach Day FAQs
Can I bring hotel/ship towels ashore? Most lines allow it, but return them to avoid charges. A microfiber towel packs smaller and dries faster.
Do I need reef-safe sunscreen? Many destinations encourage it to protect coral; it’s a smart default.
Glass bottles on the beach? Hard no—dangerous and often banned.
As our journey through the essentials of a cruise beach excursion comes to a close, it’s clear that the right preparation can turn a simple day at the beach into an extraordinary adventure. From selecting the perfect attire to pack in your cruise beach bag to making the most out of your time on cruise port days, each element plays a crucial role in shaping your experience. Remember, the key to a memorable beach day lies not just in the beauty of the destination but in the details of your preparation.
