Cruise nails: how to get a set that lasts from Port Everglades to port of call

When to book before you sail

Aim for one to three days before embarkation. That gives your set a little time to settle and leaves room for a fix if something catches. The day of sailing is busy with luggage and travel, so it is not the time for a nail appointment.

Element is open Monday to Saturday 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM and Sunday 11 AM to 5 PM at 8151 W Sunrise Blvd, Plantation. Walk-ins are accepted, but call 954-236-7922 if your sailing week is tight. Think about the itinerary. A cruise can include formal nights, pool days, shore excursions and long walks on cobblestones in port. Your nails should work for all of it. A neutral or sheer base goes with the dress code and with the beach, and you can add color on your toes for fun.

Fingers: strong and simple

On a ship you will be at the pool, on a beach excursion, holding drinks, packing and unpacking. A moderate length with builder gel, dip or acrylic holds up better than polish alone. Color-wise, think about your formal nights as well as pool days. A sheer pink, milky white or soft neutral goes with a swimsuit and a gown. Add a thin gold line or one design nail for a dressy touch, starting at $10+.

Shore excursions deserve a thought too. Snorkeling, kayaking or climbing can all be hard on nails, so a moderate length is safer. Some people choose a set that is a little shorter than usual for a cruise week, then go longer again when they are home.

Toes: the sandal and pool set

Your toes will be seen all week, and sand, salt and deck surfaces are rough on polish. A pedicure before you sail keeps them neat, and a bright color feels right for a tropical trip. Spa pedicures at Element start at $35 for the Classic and go up to $120 for Gold Enchantment. The Organic Spa Pedicure is $65. Tell your tech your sailing date, and skip shaving your legs on the day of the pedicure.

Many ships have a nail or spa service, but booking before you leave means you can arrive with your set done and take your time. It also means you know the results before you sail, and any small fix can be done in the days before you leave rather than at sea.

What to pack and what to do when you get back

Pack a small file, cuticle oil and a clear top coat. If a nail catches, the file smooths it. Rinse hands after pool and ocean time, and dry them well. When you are home, book a fill or a soak-off so the set does not overgrow. Set prices start at $60+ for color acrylic, $65+ for dip, $70+ for builder gel and $75+ for Aprés Gel-X. Check your cruise line's rules for anything you plan to pack.

Plan your timing around travel day. Port Everglades can be busy, and highways in Broward County can be slow, so leave more time than you think you need. Finish your nail appointment the day before or earlier, so you are not racing between the salon and the ship.

Questions guests ask

Is Port Everglades close to Plantation?

Port Everglades is the cruise port in Fort Lauderdale, in the same part of Broward County as Plantation. Check your route and traffic on the day, since highway times vary, and leave more time than you think you need.

When should I get a pedicure before a cruise?

One to three days before sailing works well. The polish has time to settle and your skin is smooth, but you are not rushing on travel day. Skip shaving on the day of the pedicure.

What nail length is best for a cruise?

Short to medium, with a strong overlay such as builder gel, dip or acrylic, is easiest. You will carry bags, swim and use deck surfaces, so a shorter nail is less likely to snag.