Finding the perfect gift for someone who loves cruising can be a bit of a challenge. Whether they’re setting sail for the first time or they’re seasoned cruisers, it’s all about the little things that can make their trip more comfortable and enjoyable. From useful gadgets to unique accessories, the right cruise essentials can make their time on the water even more memorable. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of 45 perfect gift ideas for the cruise lover in your life. These thoughtful essentials are not only practical but will also make their cruising experience smoother and more fun!

Action Camera

An action camera makes an incredible gift for cruisers who love capturing their adventures in the water, on ziplines, or exploring rugged port excursions. GoPro and DJI Osmo Action models are waterproof, compact, and durable—perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or filming slides on the ship. While you can use them elsewhere, action cams really shine on cruises where water, movement, and unforgettable scenery are part of every day.

Airfare Gift Card

A gift card or voucher toward airfare takes one of the biggest trip expenses off the table and ensures your favorite cruiser can easily get to their embarkation port. Since many cruises depart from cities that require a flight, covering their airfare removes a major planning hurdle and unexpected cost. It’s a thoughtful, practical gift that shows you care about their entire journey—from home all the way to the ship’s gangway.

Celebration Package

Celebrating a special occasion on a cruise—be it a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or other milestone—can be made even more memorable with tailored celebration packages offered by various cruise lines. These packages often include stateroom decorations, specialty dining experiences, spa treatments, and personalized gifts, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere at sea.

Shore Excursion Credit

Gifting a cruise excursion is a thoughtful way to elevate someone’s vacation by giving them the opportunity to explore unique destinations and create unforgettable memories. It’s an essential part of cruising because shore days are limited, and pre-booked excursions ensure access to the best experiences—from snorkeling adventures to cultural tours—without the hassle of last-minute planning.

Drink Package

A drink package makes an excellent gift because it allows cruisers to indulge in their favorite beverages without worrying about the bill adding up. Whether it’s cocktails by the pool, specialty coffees, or bottled water on excursions, having a drink package adds convenience and relaxation to every part of the cruise. Would you like similar write-ups for other cruise add-on gifts?

Drink Koozie

A drink koozie is a practical and fun gift that helps keep drinks cold in the warm cruise climate. It’s perfect for relaxing by the pool, on the beach, or during excursions, as it prevents condensation and ensures your beverage stays at the ideal temperature. Lightweight and easy to pack, it’s a convenient accessory that enhances comfort while cruising. Plus, it’s easily personalized, making it a thoughtful and useful gift for any cruiser.

Binoculars

Binoculars are perfect for spotting distant wildlife, islands, or coastal views while on the ship or during excursions. They enhance the experience of sightseeing and help make the most of the stunning views. A must-have gift for any cruise lover, especially for those with a keen interest in nature or wildlife watching.

Prepaid Wi-Fi Package

A prepaid Wi-Fi package ensures that cruisers stay connected at sea without dealing with exorbitant roaming fees. It’s an essential item for those who want to stay in touch with family or share their experiences on social media. A considerate gift for those who want reliable internet access while cruising.

Waterproof Cruise Luggage Tags

Designed specifically for cruise boarding passes, these tags protect your documents from rain and handling, making embarkation smoother and more secure.

Magnetic Hooks

Cruise cabin walls are metal, so these are perfect for adding hanging space for wet swimsuits, hats, or even birthday/anniversary decorations.

Passport Holder

We mainly use our passport holder when we’re cruising or flying internationally. It keeps our passports, boarding passes, and travel documents all in one place, which makes airport days and embarkation smoother.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Cruise bathrooms are often small, making a hanging toiletry bag an essential item for keeping grooming products organized and accessible. Most designs include hooks, which makes it easy to hang on bathroom doors or towel racks. A great gift for anyone who wants to maximize cabin space while staying organized.

Cruise Lanyard with Keycard Holder

Cruise keycards are used for room entry, purchases, and excursions, so a lanyard is the perfect way to keep them handy and accessible. This small but thoughtful gift helps cruisers avoid fumbling for their card when they need it most, making it an essential for a smooth and stress-free experience.

Cabin Door Decor Magnets

A custom cabin door magnet is a fun and practical way to personalize your room and easily spot it in long hallways. Whether it’s to mark a special occasion or simply add some personality, it’s a gift that helps make their cabin feel more like home. Plus, it’s an easy way to locate your room in a sea of similar doors!

Crossbody Bag – Lululemon

This Lululemon crossbody bag is great for exploring the ship and ports. It’s compact, sleek, and holds just the essentials like a phone, wallet, and a few small extras. It’s especially useful in places where pickpocketing can be an issue, since it stays close to your body and zips securely.

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Sunscreen is something no one wants to buy but everyone needs. It rotects your skin, especially important in destinations like the Caribbean and other common cruise ports.

Waterproof Phone Holder

These are especially useful on cruise excursions where travelers are swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or even walking in unpredictable tropical weather. They allow cruisers to keep their phones protected and accessible for photos or navigation. On land trips, these may go unused—but on a cruise, they’re practically essential.

Towel Bands

These elastic bands wrap around pool or beach loungers to keep towels from blowing away in the wind—a surprisingly common issue on windy pool decks or breezy beach ports. It’s a small gift, but one that cruise-goers will be very thankful for once they experience the gusts at sea.

Polarized Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses reduce glare from the ocean and provide better visibility when out on deck or exploring the islands. They also protect the eyes from harmful UV rays, making them a necessary item for long days in the sun. As a gift, they’re both stylish and practical, ensuring the recipient can enjoy the views without strain.

Swimsuit

Whether lounging by the pool, enjoying the beach, or taking part in water activities, a swimsuit is a cruise essential. Having a couple of options measn not having to let your swimsuit dry in the bathroom. This makes a thoughtful gift, especially for someone who loves spending time in the water or enjoys cruise ship pools.

Dry Bag

As a gift, it’s both practical and versatile, especially for cruisers who enjoy outdoor activities. A dry bag is essential for keeping electronics, clothes, and other valuables safe from water during excursions like kayaking, snorkeling, or visiting waterfalls. It’s a must-have for those who want to protect their belongings during adventurous shore stops.

Cruise-Approved Power Strip

Cruise cabins often have limited outlets, and a cruise-approved power strip is perfect for charging multiple devices at once. Many cruisers rely on their phones, cameras, and tablets for documenting their travels, making this a highly useful item. It’s a great gift for cruisers who need to keep their devices charged without hassle.

Motion Sickness Bands or Patches

A considerate gift for anyone prone to seasickness, it ensures they don’t miss out on the fun.Motion sickness can be a real challenge on the water, especially during rough seas. Motion sickness bands or patches help alleviate nausea and keep cruisers comfortable during excursions or sea days.

Nightlight

Cruise cabins can be dark, especially at night, and having a nightlight or clip-on light makes it easier to navigate the space. These lights are compact and portable, perfect for avoiding stubbed toes or just creating a soothing ambiance. A practical gift for anyone, especially families with young children or light sleepers.

Day Backpack – North Face Vault or Recon

We switch between the North Face Vault and Recon backpacks depending on the trip. Both are comfortable to wear all day and have plenty of space for everything we need without being too bulky. From hikes to city days, this is our everyday bag when we’re on the move.

Packable (Sun) Hat

A stylish and functional gift, it helps keep cruisers cool and protected from harmful UV rays. A sun hat with a wide brim offers essential protection from the sun while exploring on deck or during shore excursions. It’s foldable and lightweight, so it won’t take up much room in luggage.

Reusable Insulated Tumbler

Cruise drink stations often provide free beverages. A reusable insulated tumbler or cup is perfect for keeping drinks at the desired temperature during long shore days or sea days. It helps cruisers stay hydrated during their adventures.

Water Shoes

Water shoes are great for beach landings, rocky shorelines, or water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. They offer protection and comfort when exploring, ensuring feet stay safe from sharp rocks or hot sand. A practical gift for anyone who enjoys active shore excursions or outdoor activities.

Kindle

For cruisers who love to read, a Kindle or e-reader is a game-changer. It holds dozens of books without adding weight, making it ideal for relaxing by the pool or during sea days. This lightweight, space-saving gift ensures that your loved ones can enjoy endless reading options without the bulk of physical books.

Mini Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is a must-have for staying healthy while moving between crowded areas like buffets, excursions, and the ship’s public spaces. Conveniently small, it fits in a purse or pocket for easy access. A thoughtful gift for anyone who wants to stay fresh and avoid germs, especially during busy ports or excursions.

Travel-Size Disinfectant Wipes

Travel-size disinfectant wipes are perfect for quickly cleaning surfaces like tray tables, remote controls, and other commonly touched areas in public spaces. They help cruisers maintain cleanliness and reduce exposure to germs while traveling. A practical gift for anyone who values hygiene and convenience on the go.

Ziploc Bags (Various Sizes)

Ziploc bags are incredibly versatile and essential for bring snacks back to your room, wet clothes, small electronics, or keeping things dry during excursions.

Instant Cold Pack

An instant cold pack is perfect for relieving sore muscles or treating bumps and bruises after active shore excursions. It provides quick relief without needing a freezer and is compact enough to carry in a bag. A thoughtful and practical gift for cruisers who are planning outdoor activities or active days on land.

Reusable Hand Warmers

Reusable hand warmers are perfect for Alaskan cruises or colder excursions, providing much-needed warmth during glacier-viewing or early morning port stops. Compact and portable, they fit in pockets and offer a convenient way to stay warm. A thoughtful gift for anyone heading to chilly destinations or anyone who tends to get cold easily.

Waterproof Jacket

A waterproof jacket or rain shell is essential for Alaskan cruises, where rain, mist, and wind are common. It keeps cruisers dry and comfortable during outdoor excursions, ensuring they can still enjoy the views and activities despite the weather. A great gift for anyone heading to cooler, wetter destinations, like Alaska.

Beach Bag

A beach bag is almost a daily necessity on cruises that visit warm destinations. Unlike typical vacations, cruisers often hop off the ship and head straight to beaches or water excursions—so a lightweight, sand-proof, and spacious bag is perfect for carrying towels, sunscreen, a book, and more. It’s a great gift because it’s specifically tailored to the ship-to-shore lifestyle.