Put the snow shovel away. Christmas at sea is nothing like Christmas at home or at Grandma’s. Most of those little tricks and shortcuts you’ve learned over the years to smooth your way through the holidays will be of little use as you sail out to sea. Here are a few helpful hints we think will come in handy. It’s not going to be a “normal” Christmas. Christmas at sea is going to be different. Expect this and plan for this. Your surroundings won’t be familiar, the weather is likely to be different, and the holiday routine will take on a very different pace.

You’re likely to have more pre-holiday planning to do. Planning for a cruise — any cruise — involves some organization. Throw in Christmas and you’ve made the planning process that much more important. Last minute shopping may be difficult if you’re a hundred miles out to sea. Large, heavy, or bulky presents are out of the question. There may be parents, uncles, aunts, brothers and sisters traveling with you. And it’s likely that you’ll be flying to your cruise port of embarkation, presenting a whole new set of concerns — particularly considering winter weather.

Have a pre-Christmas get together. One excellent idea is to celebrate Christmas the morning or so before your flight to the cruise. You’ll have a chance to open all those presents around the tree, have a traditional meal together, clean up and prepare for your journey. But be sure to take along at least one unwrapped gift for each family member to open at Christmas. Or, bring just your stockings and stocking gifts along!

Talk to your children. If you’re traveling with very young children, include them in your holiday plans. Kids need to know what’s happening, especially when it concerns the logistics of Santa Claus and reindeer.

Shop by weight. The bicycle or set of barbells will have to wait for another Christmas morning. So will the expensive china or delicate wood picture frame. If you’re bringing presents to the ship, look for lightweight clothes or easy to pack (as in small and unbreakable) gifts. Fun, novelty items are good ideas as are gift certificates and lottery tickets. Think light. And don’t forget, last minute shopping can be done in ports of call along the way!

Bring decorations. Decorate your cabin for the occasion. Lightweight garlands, lights (never, ever use real candles), and even a small, artificial tree will brighten your home away from home. Most cruise lines let you decorate the outside of your door but you best check with your cabin attendant to be sure you’re not in violation of any fire regulations.

Plan to arrive at your embarkation port a day early. Flight delays can throw a wrench into any holiday celebration but they’re particularly pressing when your ship sails in 15 minutes and you’re still in the air. You can virtually eliminate those hassles simply by booking a one-night pre-cruise hotel package in your port of embarkation.

Talk to your cabin attendant. If you’ve got any special in-room plans or events scheduled, let your cabin attendant know right away. He or she might be able to help you out with your decorations, food, ice, and any other special needs you’re bound to have. Keep in mind that extending an advance tip will demonstrate your appreciation for their extra effort.

Order room service or purchase special onboard packages. Make it easy on yourself. Most cruise lines have special gift packages (flowers, cakes, champagne, wine, caviar, hors d’oeuvres, etc.) available for you to make your celebrations easier and tastier. Don’t overdo it. Someone else is doing the cooking and cleaning the room. Don’t spoil your leisure time by over-scheduling your day, over-eating, or over-drinking.