This will be particularly helpful when you first get on the ship, regardless of its size, and it'll help at least a bit of time go by. Smaller ships should have a map with locations of life vests, fire extinguishers, and other safety protocol available.  Most cruise lines have a large map including a wide variety of restaurants, activities, and events. Take time to look look at the map provided and learn where everything is in relation to your room. This will help you decide what to do first! There might also be a schedule of events for you to read for the cruise. Pick a few events or shows that seem interesting to you and try to attend them! For smaller ships, you might have to make your own entertainment, but on cruise lines there will likely be a lot provided for you! In addition to shows and concerts, there are plenty of options for entertainment that you can take part in, including karaoke, auctions, carnival games, gambling (if you’re of age), and other competitive events. A lot of entertainment events will have awesome prizes. You never know what you might win! On a smaller ship, this is easy as you will likely know many of your shipmates. However, on a cruise there may be formal dinners or designated times for mingling with other passengers. Take the time to get to know them and make new friends.  On a cruise ship, there are plenty of places to meet people, including the bar, nightclubs, the pool, live shows, and planned activities. Don’t be afraid to reach out and talk to someone new! If you’re of legal age on a cruise, a visit to the bars and nightclubs might be a fun activity for your group of friends. Dancing, singing, and getting silly will really help you let loose and relax on your cruise!  Always make sure you are being safe and are aware of your surroundings. Use the buddy system by assigning partners to watch out for each other throughout the night. On a cruise, participating in activities all day can really make you work up an appetite. Check out the different dining options on the ship. From buffets to fine dining, take the time to try something new that you can’t get anywhere else. Aboard a smaller ship, you can take advantage of local restaurants at a port, or you can practice cooking for yourself and your shipmates. Take the opportunity to visit a new place and have an adventure. Many cruise lines will offer on-land excursions for people on the cruise, so check out their packages and select an activity that interests you. If you’re on a smaller ship and have plans to dock at a port, choose a local restaurant or event to attend.

Summary:
Inspect a map of the ship and get your bearings. Participate in and enjoy the entertainment. Socialize with other people aboard the ship. Visit bars and the nightclubs available on a cruise. Eat and drink to your heart’s content. Sightsee at each port of call.