Should You Tan Before A Cruise?

The author is planning their first Caribbean cruise in December and is considering getting a tan before the trip. They are currently dark due to summer, except for their stomach and back. They believe that once they are tan, they can avoid burns. They plan to get a base tan if they plan to be in the sun, but they don’t pre-tan. Self-tanners are an option, and they always spray tan before a cruise.

The author usually tans for around a month before their cruise, which makes a significant difference. They still apply sunscreen but no longer have to use SPF50 every 2 hours. They usually don’t tan in a bed, except two weeks prior to a cruise. To keep their spray tan looking fresh and natural throughout their winter cruise, they recommend starting with a clean canvas and using a tanning bed.

The author also shares 37 best cruise tips that every new cruiser must know before booking their first cruise. They suggest going with the tanning bed, as the spray on will start wearing off and once a good base tan is achieved, the darkening will only increase. They also provide a comprehensive pre-cruise checklist, which includes what to do before a cruise from the three-month mark.

The author advises against spray tanning before a beach vacation, as chlorine and salt water can wash it off. Applying a spray tan onto a clean canvas ensures maximum absorption of the pigment that provides instant color. They would absolutely tan before a week-long cruise if they want to be exposed to the sun on the cruise.

Safely tanning is a great way to prepare for your trip, as getting burned the first day and ruining the rest of your skin is not ideal.