I've been on more than 30 cruises. Here are 10 things I wish I'd known sooner.

I've been going on cruises my whole life and learned a lot about the best ways to travel on them.

Jordana Comiter I've been going on cruises since I was a baby and have learned a lot after more than 30 sailings.

Embarkation day is a great time to visit the spa, and port days are the best time to be on the ship.

Passengers can usually bring some of their own alcohol on board, but there are limitations.

Growing up a short drive from a popular port, my family's favorite vacation has always been cruises.

Since my first one as a baby, I've set sail more than 30 times.

With each cruise, I seem to learn something new.

From time and money-saving tips to packing essentials, here are a few things I wish I'd known sooner.

Embarkation day is often the best time to go to the spa.

Jordana Comiter The spa tends to get busy throughout a cruise, and prices can be high.

In my experience, booking an appointment on the day you board the boat — usually called embarkation day — often comes with significant discounts.

Since the cruise festivities haven't begun, and your luggage may not have arrived yet, a relaxing massage is an ideal way to kick off your vacation.

Even the Caribbean has bad weather some days.

Jordana Comiter You may expect your Caribbean cruise to be full of blue skies and white sand, but don't overlook the possibility of cold, windy, and rainy conditions.