Star Cruise Packing and Onboard Tips for First Timers

Please note: The tips in this article are based on general StarCruises guidelines as of September 2026 and may vary by ship, itinerary and departure port. Always confirm current policies with StarCruises before sailing. Last checked: September 2026.

Browse Dhesu tour packages to see current cruise departure options alongside land-based holidays, or find out more about Dhesu Travel and how we plan cruise bookings for Malaysian families.

Pack light layers rather than bulky items. Days on deck are hot and humid, while the restaurants, theatre and casino are strongly air conditioned, so a light cardigan or jacket saves you shivering at dinner. Cotton shirts, shorts, sundresses and comfortable sandals cover most daytime needs.

Bring at least two sets of swimwear so one is always dry, along with a cover up for walking between the pool and your cabin. Most ships have a formal or gala night where guests dress up, so pack one smart outfit such as a batik shirt, a dress or a jacket. Policies on dress codes vary between ships and itineraries. As a general guideline, most evenings are smart casual with one formal night on longer cruises, but confirm the current expectations for your specific voyage with StarCruises before you sail. Non slip shoes are useful on wet decks.

The most important of all Star Cruise packing tips is to carry regular medication in your hand luggage with enough for the whole voyage plus a few extra days. The onboard clinic charges for consultations and may not stock your specific medicine. Add plasters, paracetamol, antihistamines and any motion sickness remedy your pharmacist recommends.

A power bank is handy because cabins have limited sockets and you will use your phone for photos. Bring a universal adaptor, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a small day bag for shore excursions and copies of your passport and cruise documents.

Policies on baggage limits vary between ships and itineraries. As a general guideline, there is typically no strict baggage weight limit for cruise cabins the way airlines impose, but very large bags can be difficult to manoeuvre in smaller cabin corridors. Confirm the current guidance for your specific voyage with StarCruises.

The Resorts World ships sailing from Port Klang and Singapore are large and stable, and many first timers feel nothing at all. If you are prone to motion sickness, choose a cabin on a lower deck near the middle of the ship where movement is least noticeable.

Eat light meals, avoid too much alcohol on the first evening and spend time on deck looking at the horizon if you feel queasy. Ginger sweets and acupressure wristbands help some people. Speak to your pharmacist before sailing about preventive options that suit you.

Interior cabins are the most affordable and perfectly comfortable if you plan to spend your time out and about. Ocean view cabins add a window, while balcony cabins let you enjoy sunrise coffee in private and are worth considering for couples or anniversaries.

Families often choose connecting cabins or larger suites. If you are travelling with elderly parents, ask for a cabin close to the lifts to reduce walking.

Main dining rooms and buffet restaurants are typically included in your fare, with speciality restaurants charged separately. The variety is generous, from Asian favourites to Western grills, and the buffet runs long hours so nobody goes hungry.

Malaysian Muslim travellers should confirm halal dining arrangements at the time of booking. Ships departing from Malaysia and Singapore usually cater to this, but options vary by restaurant, so ask your agent to note the requirement on your reservation. Vegetarian and children's menus are also widely available.

Policies on bringing your own alcohol on board vary between ships and itineraries. As a general guideline, most cruise lines restrict alcohol brought from outside the ship, but confirm the current rules for your specific voyage with StarCruises before packing any bottles.

Study the daily programme delivered to your cabin each evening. Shows, cooking demonstrations, kids clubs and deck parties fill the schedule, and the best seats go early. Book shore excursions in advance because popular tours sell out, and always return to the ship well before the all aboard time.

Mobile signal disappears at sea and onboard wifi packages can be pricey. One of the simplest Star Cruise packing tips is to download entertainment before departure and enjoy the break.