We recently took our first ever cruise, Silver Shadow Ft. Lauderdale and return, and we learned a few things.
First, despite bad weather, not taking part in any day time activities or viewing any of the shows, we absolutely loved it. We're booked again for December next year, back to back Ft. L. to Barbados and Barbados to Ft. L.
We also learned:
Not to take so much stuff as to require a porter.
Take fewer books. The ship has a really good library for recreational reading.
Take fewer clothes. Laundry service was outstanding, with clothes handed in by 8am back by noon beautifully done.
Take sea-sickness medecine before sailing!
No doubt this is all old hat to you experienced cruisers, but all new to us!