There’s something magical about stepping onto the deck of It’s The Ship for the first time. That mixture of excitement, anticipation, and yes—perhaps a touch of nervousness that flutters in your stomach as you prepare to embark on what many veterans will tell you is a truly transformative experience. If you’re reading this as a first-time shipmate, let me assure you: those butterflies are completely normal, and you’re about to join a community that welcomes you exactly as you are.
Entering a Different World
From the moment you board, you’ll notice there’s something different about the energy on It’s The Ship. It’s not just another festival or party—it’s a floating community of like-minded souls temporarily separated from the constraints of everyday life. Here, accountants dance with artists, doctors with designers, and CEOs with creatives. The beautiful thing about being at sea is how quickly those everyday labels dissolve.
What makes this experience unique is the sense of belonging that develops almost immediately. Perhaps it’s the shared adventure, or maybe it’s the understanding that everyone aboard has chosen to be part of something extraordinary. Whatever the reason, first-timers are often surprised by how quickly they find their tribe—people who accept them without judgment and celebrate the authentic self you bring onboard.
Is The Ship Really That Intense?
When you see photos and videos from previous voyages, It’s The Ship can appear overwhelming. Multiple stages pumping music simultaneously, pool parties that seem to never end, themed nights with elaborate costumes, and activities scheduled around the clock—it’s natural to wonder if you’ll be able to keep up.
The truth? You dictate your own journey.
The beauty of It’s The Ship lies in choice. Yes, there are non-stop activities and music, but there are also quiet corners for meaningful conversations, sunrise yoga sessions, and peaceful moments watching the ocean stretch to the horizon. Some shipmates dance until dawn every night, while others balance high-energy moments with relaxation and self-care.
Tips for managing the intensity:
- Study the schedule beforehand and prioritize what truly excites you
- Don’t be afraid to take breaks—find a quiet spot on the upper deck to recharge
- Stay hydrated and pace yourself
- Remember that FOMO (fear of missing out) is an illusion—whatever experience you’re having is exactly the right one
Making Lifetime Memories
There’s a reason why veteran shipmates speak about their first voyage with such reverence—the memories formed on It’s The Ship tend to imprint themselves deeply in your consciousness.
What makes these experiences so significant? It’s the perfect storm of elements: the novelty of being at sea, the freedom from judgment, the heightened sensory experiences, and most importantly, the human connections made in this unique setting.
When you’re truly present, existing as the most authentic version of yourself, magic happens. Conversations go deeper. Laughter becomes more genuine. Music feels more transformative. Dancing becomes an expression rather than a performance.
You Never Forget Your First… Ship
Interestingly, there’s actual science behind why your first ship experience will likely stay with you forever. Novel experiences trigger the release of stress hormones like epinephrine and corticosterone, which might sound negative but actually serve an important purpose—they help consolidate memories into long-term storage.
When you combine these neurochemical processes with emotionally charged positive experiences, you create memories that are particularly resistant to fading. It’s why so many shipmates can recall specific moments, conversations, and feelings from their voyage with unusual clarity years later.
Tips for Virgin Shipmates
As you prepare for your journey, here are some practical tips to help maximize your experience:
- Embrace spontaneity: Some of the best moments happen when you least expect them
- Make connections early: Don’t be afraid to start conversations and connect with other shipmates
- Take care of yourself: The ship has everything you need, but an open mind ,good vibes and comfortable shoes are must-haves
- Document mindfully: Take photos to capture memories, but don’t experience the entire voyage through a screen
Back to Reality
When the ship finally docks and you return to solid ground, something will have shifted. It might be subtle—perhaps you’ll carry a new openness to experiences, or maybe you’ll have formed friendships that transcend geographical boundaries. Many first-timers report a newfound confidence that stays with them long after the voyage ends.
Whatever you take away from your first It’s The Ship experience, one thing is certain: you’ll never forget it. And like so many before you, you might find yourself already planning your return before you’ve even stepped off the gangway.
Welcome aboard, virgin shipmate. The community is waiting to embrace you, the adventures are ready to unfold, and your story with It’s The Ship is just beginning. Trust us when we say—it’s going to be unforgettable.