If you've never been on a cruise ship, the first moments about one of these huge luxury liners will be like stepping into wonderland. You'll board into the atrium which is like a hotel lobby and this is where you'll get your first real idea of just how large these ships really are. You'll probably spend the better part of your first two days aboard just learning your way around.

Expect a lifeboat drill soon after everyone is on board. You'll be instructed on where your lifeboat station is and you'll have to report there with life jacket on for a head count. You'll then be given a brief overview of what to do in case of an emergency and then you'll be free to wander about and do as you please.

Here is a list of helpful tips for first timers: