The last-minute questions every first-time cruiser asks before setting sail

Mum had just realised her cabin was way up high on Deck 15, not down on the more stable Deck 5. Would this mean she'll get seasick? What medicine should she get? Can they move her to a better room? Why is M534 not on the fifth floor and what the heck is the Marina deck?

These were all valid questions. My answers were "more likely but not necessarily", "Kwells or Travacalm", "probably not, but it can't hurt to ask" and "it's Princess tradition to name decks with words instead of numbers, but you're right, that's confusing".

Then came the queries about power points and whether to buy the drinks package. Yes, bring a US or EU travel adapter. And no, most people cannot sustain that level of drinking daily for two weeks.

Finally, she asked what time to arrive if her assigned boarding slot is 2pm-4pm. I advised 3.45pm, because there would be no queue. (To ensure this was not too risky, I checked the ship's scheduled departure time on the Port Authority of NSW website.

These things come easily to me but may be overwhelming for newbies. Although the required information is provided to passengers, many people don't read it until the last minute.

Everyone asks the same questions, so do lots of reading or talk to your cruise-loving friends. Take notes and start getting organised in the weeks before the trip. Unfortunately, I am not available via WhatsApp unless we are related.

When I invited Mum on her first cruise in 2013, I taught her nothing practical and hoped she would be blown away by the ship's luxury. As we entered the golden lobby, she took one look at the oversized chandeliers and declared "it looks like Canterbury League Club".

This moment proved that my flowery reviews of the decor are not nearly as important as the basic how-to stuff.

I have also since learned that Canterbury League Club is quite fancy. I just don't think it was the vibe that Crystal Cruises had in mind.

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Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Traveller

How big: 98 cabins, 196 guests

Who would love it: Over-40s lovers of luxury and adventure.

Who would not: Those who enjoy big-ship amenities like casinos, rides and slides.

Point of difference: A sleek, yacht-style ship for all-inclusive polar explorations to the Arctic and Antarctica, and cultural and epicurean experiences in Europe and South America.

Don't miss: The Explorer's Table, an omakase-style dinner for 10 guests, offered once per sailing.

Price point: From $US9044 ($13,660) per person twin-share, for a nine-night Antarctic voyage including drinks, meals, gratuities and pre-cruise accommodation in Buenos Aires.

Explore more: cruisetraveller.com.au