Cruises are full of fascinating secrets and hidden features that can enhance your experience onboard. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, here are 10 intriguing cruise secrets to consider for your next cruise:

1. Unlimited Main Dining Room Meals: There are literally no limits on what you can order from the main dining room menu. It’s okay to go rogue and order only appetizers or three desserts. Oh, and it’s also okay to take your dessert to go if eating under the stars on the pool deck is your thing.
2. Cheap or Free Room Service: Room service on a ship is one of the small joys you’ll find on a cruise. Fancy a donut with your morning coffee before heading up to your real breakfast? Go for it, but pay attention to those room service menus. Some lines charge for certain room service menu items, others charge during peak dining times. However, no matter how you cut it, room service fees on cruises are far and away cheaper than at hotels and resorts on dry land.
3. Breakfast Options Are Often Numerous: You just might have more breakfast options than you think (read: The buffet often isn’t the only place to dine in the morning). Free breakfast at Johnny Rockets is one of Royal Caribbean’s yummiest cruise secrets, though there are fees to eat here at other times of day. And free all-day breakfast at Big Chicken is a late sleeper’s best cruise secret on Carnival. Check your daily program or the cruise line’s app to see which restaurants are open in the morning.
4. Don’t Limit Yourself During Lunch: You may be surprised to find free pasta bars at your ship’s Italian specialty restaurant or sliders at your favorite lounge. These are sometimes posted in the daily program, but it never hurts to do a little lunch reconnaissance in the early days of your cruise to help you break away from the standard fare – and the crowds.
5. Free Light Bites Throughout the Day: Specialty coffee at the coffee shops onboard comes with an extra fee, but the pastries, sandwiches, and other food at these venues are often free. While some specialty items will have a charge, don’t assume all the small bites do. And don’t forget to check the bars.
6. Hidden Navigation Clues in Hallways: Cruise ships often have subtle navigation clues in the hallways, such as carpet patterns or artwork. Pay attention, and you might find shortcuts or interesting areas.
7. Strange Markings on the Hull: Ever noticed markings on the ship’s hull? These indicate waterlines, draft levels, and other technical details. They’re not just random graffiti!
8. Clever Ship Layouts: Cruise ships are like floating cities, and their layouts are carefully designed. Look for smart features like minimizing long corridors or placing popular venues near each other.
9. Crew Areas Hide Another World: Behind the scenes, crew members have their own living quarters, dining areas, and even a morgue (yes, there is one!). These hidden crew spaces keep the ship running smoothly.
10. Smart Techniques to Get You to Spend More: From onboard shopping promotions to strategically placed bars, cruise lines employ clever tactics to encourage passengers to spend. Keep an eye out for these subtle nudges during your voyage.

Remember, these secrets add an extra layer of intrigue to your cruise experience. Bon voyage!