Do we need to pack beach towels for excursions or can we take the towels that the ship has? We are going on our first cruise at the end of October.

Usually you can take the ship's pool towels on shore.

Some cruiselines have towels in your cabins with a note that if 2(or how many they 'loan' you) towels are not returned then there is a $20 per towel fee. That is everyday not just taking them on shore. Don't leave those towels by the pool unattended or anywhere else.

If your ship is like that, I'd always bring my old beach towels from home !.

dont bother...they take up too much room in your luggage and you can get as many towels as you want usually

Don't bother. Towels are everywhere and usually provided free including shore excurson stops.

Parrot Mom and maryann are correct. Each line has it's own policy, but one way or another you'll get them from the ship and you don't need to take up valuable luggage space by bringing your own.

Eschews comment about towels being everywhere is only true on some lines. Many of the lines now give you only two in your room and will provide you with as many replacements as you wish, but they WILL charge you if you don't leave at least the two they gave you in your room when you're done (I'm talking here of course about towels meant for the pool/beach. Your room towels will be plentiful)

Thanks for all your help.