I am not certain how my name and my traveling companion's name are spelled on our passports. Can we book our cruise now and update the names later? It is very important that the names you use to book are the same names that appear on your passport or other proof of citizenship. If you are not sure of the exact spelling of any of the names as they appear on your passport or other proof of citizenship, please verify the information before booking your vacation cruise or tour.
How do I know when my final payment is due? There are several ways that you will know this information. Your confirmation letter will contain this information. Also, you can call our travel consultants and they will be happy to assist you with any such question.
What does my cruise price include? Your price includes accommodations on board the ship, meals, and most entertainment aboard the ship.
What is not included in the price of my cruise? The cruise price does not include organized shore excursions, soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, shopping, casino gaming, gratuities, spas, medical services, and other such expenses aboard your cruise. Please note that what is included varies by cruise line. Some cruise lines include beverages for example. Please ask our tour consultants what is included in your particular cruise.
What is the difference between an "Outside" and an "Inside" stateroom? An outside stateroom will have a window to the outside of the ship. An inside stateroom will not have a window in the cabin.
Are the cruise itineraries subject to changes? Yes, the cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.
When do I need to board the ship? Embarkation usually begins about 4 hours prior the departure. Please make sure that you arrive no later that 30 minutes before scheduled departure time.
Can I bring electric appliances on board? Hairdryers, electric razors, and other small appliances may be brought onboard. Most staterooms are equipped with electrical outlets that operate at 110 Volts AC current and can handle typical appliances. Some appliances may require special adapters.
How do I get to the ship? If you have purchased air through the cruise-line, then a cruise line representative will meet you at the airport baggage claim to escort you to a shuttle that will take you to the ship. If you have made your own air arrangements, it may be possible to purchase this type of transportation directly from the cruise line. In all other cases, a taxi or shuttle may be hired from the airport to the dock.
Will I get seasick on the ship? Seasickness is uncommon in very large cruise ships. The large ships are equipped with special stabilizers that are designed to stabilize the ship. There may also be a doctor on large ships to aid with any problems.
How may I pay for purchases made while on the ship? A special account will be set up for you to record any purchases that you may make while onboard. This account can be deducted from a credit card, a cash deposit or travelers checks.
What are the usual guidelines for tipping? Tipping is customary. Please use your discretion and recognize outstanding service. The recommended amounts are: waiters and staterooms attendants $3.00 per passenger per day, assistant waiters $1.50 per passenger per day and head waiters $2.00 per passenger per day.
What dinning options are available? Each cruise line varies in its dinning options, please ask our cruise consultants for specific options available to you. Generally, two options are offered: Main Seating and Late Seating. Dinning preferences may be indicated at the time of booking but cannot be guaranteed. Seating and table assignments will be confirmed at the time of embarkation.
Do we have to participate in a ship's organized activities? Organized activities are optional and you do not have to participate in them.
Are there children's activities onboard cruise ships? Families often book cruises together. More cruise lines are offering activities for children each day. Many cruise lines have programs specifically designed for children so that adults can relax worry-free. Please ask our cruise consultants for any such activities that may be specific to your cruise.
What activities are available for evenings? There are many exciting activities available during evenings. Casinos, nightclubs, and shows are commonly available in most ships.
Should I purchase trip insurance? We strongly recommend that you purchase trip insurance. Trip insurance often offers protection if you have to cancel your cruise due to illness or a death in the family. Insurance usually does not cover pre-existing conditions. Trip insurance usually also offers re-imbursement for medical coverage while on vacation. Please note that insurance policies typically vary from cruise line to cruise line. Please ask our cruise consultants for details on complete coverage terms and conditions.
What is included in the taxes and port-charges? Port-charges are levied by state and city agencies to cover the costs related to operating and maintaining the port facilities. The charges include such services a pilotage, waste removal and port personnel. Taxes typically cover airport taxes and related fees.
What is meant by a "category guarantee"? This means that you have purchased a stateroom in a category that has no been assigned yet. Normally, these cabins are assigned at embarkation time. Sometimes these staterooms will be issued in advance and you may be notified. You stateroom will fall in the category that you have purchased. Sometimes, free upgrades are assigned.
What is mean by "run of ship"? Run of ship means that you may be issued any category within the ship. This guarantees a stateroom, but it does not guarantee any particular category. The assigned stateroom could be anywhere from the least desirable to the most desirable category.
What happens if my flight to the cruise is delayed? The cruise lines and the airlines will work together to get you to your cruise as best as possible. If your flight is delayed please advise the airline that you have to meet a cruise. Airlines will often prioritize you to make sure you get to your destination by embarkation time. Should you arrive once your cruise has departed please contact the airline to attempt to schedule a flight to the first port of call.
Why is a cruise so costly for passengers traveling alone? Cruise rates are based on double occupancy per stateroom. A single passenger occupies the same stateroom that 2 passengers would occupy. Therefore, private cabins for single passengers tend to be more expensive.
What kind of clothes should I pack? In cold weather destinations we recommend layering of clothes. In warm weather shorts and t-shirts are fine. Please note that many ships require a collared shirt and slacks in their dining rooms. Jeans and t-shirts are often not permitted in the dinning rooms. Many ships also offer a formal night where a jacket and tie may be required.
What is the average age of passengers by cruise line? Passenger ages vary somewhat by sailing, but usually they are as follows: Carnival Cruise Line: 0 - 45 years of age Royal Caribbean Cruise Line: 25 - 55 years of age Crystal Cruise Line: 55+ years of age Celebrity Cruise Line: 35 - 64 years of age Norwegian Cruise Line: 27 - 56 years of age Holland America Cruises: 30 - 60 years of age Princess Cruise Line: 35 to 65 years of age
What time does my flight have to arrive and depart for the cruise? If you are booking your own flights there are several rules of thumb to follow. Please plan to arrive at port at least 2 hours before scheduled departure time. You need to allot additional time to retrieve your luggage and to transport from the airport to the cruise port. Please book flights that are early enough in case of a delay. Please note that ships will leave when scheduled. It is much better to arrive early and have to wait than to miss your cruise departure due to poor planning or delays. On departure please schedule flights about 7 hours after scheduled arrival time. Please make sure you leave enough time after scheduled arrival time since passengers must clear customs, disembark and transport to the airport.
