Cruise Tips

Need Cruise Tips ? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I pack to wear?
2. Is cruising affordable and a good value?
3. Is the food on a cruise as good as I've heard?
4. Is food for special diets available?
5. Are there non-smoking sections?
6. Do cruise lines welcome families with children?
7. Do I need a passport?
8. What is there to do on board?
9. Is participation in ship activities obligatory, or can I be on my own?
10. What is included in the price of the cruise?
11. Is tipping required? If so, how much?
12. How much money should I take with me?
13. What seating options do I have at mealtime?
14. What about shore excursions?
15. What's there to do in port?
16. How long are cruises?
17. Where can I go?
18. How do I book a cruise?
19. How do I pay for my cruise?
20. What happens if I need to cancel my cruise?
21. Can I book on short notice?
22. When will you send my tickets?
23. Do cruise lines allow group bookings?
24. How many people are needed to get a group discount?
25. What is an air/sea package?
26. What airline will I fly on if I purchase an air/sea package?
27. Can I get frequent flier miles when I use an air/sea package?
28. What if I want to extend my cruise vacation?
29. What about passengers with special needs?
30. Will I get seasick?
31. What activities are there to do after the sun goes down?
32. What choices do I have with cabins?
33. Will I enjoy a cruise as a single person?
34. Are all ships and cruises fairly similar?
35. Are there different classes of service?
36. What if we want to celebrate a special day?
37. Is a cruise a good choice for honeymooners?
38. Are there phones available?
39. Can I check my email from the ship?
40. What about TVs and news?
41. Are there medical services onboard?
42. Are laundry services available?
43. Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?
44. Are parking facilities available for my car and/or RV while I'm on board?
45. Are there meeting rooms onboard?

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Answers

1. What should I pack to wear?

Remember to bring comfortable clothes and shoes, and a bathing suit-just as you would for a resort vacation. Casual dress is appropriate for the daytime. Evening dress can vary, depending upon the ship as some host formal dinners or parties. You may want to pack formal clothing such as a dark suit, dinner jacket or cocktail dress or gown. A tuxedo is not required and is up to you. Many ships offer tuxedo rental services for your convenience.

2. Is cruising affordable and a good value?

Definitely. The Cruise Marketplace has cruise vacations for every budget. Imagine having your accommodations, entertainment, meals, and activities covered in one package deal. You choose the level of comfort and style that meets your needs. Of course, extras are available depending upon your wants.

3. Is the food on a cruise as good as I've heard?

Picture a varied selection of entrées at every meal (appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables, main dishes, and desserts), and the ability to order as much as you can eat. There are also, however, low calorie, fitness and spa menu selections that are just as tempting for those who are health conscious. The best thing is not seeing prices on the menu!

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4. Is food for special diets available?

Most ships will accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate, Kosher, or other dietary requirements. However, this request must be made in advance, so please let your representative know your dietary needs at the time you book your cruise.

5. Are there non-smoking sections?

All ships have non-smoking areas in the dining room, and some public areas have smoking sections. Many cruise ship dining rooms are now totally smoke-free, as a result of passenger requests.

6. Do cruise lines welcome families with children?

All key cruise lines offer children's programs and supervised activities with age appropriate activities including camps and day care services. They will love a family cruise if they like swimming, games, movies and exploring new places. We recommend that you check with us to ask about special programs. And remember, children usually travel at a substantially reduced rate!

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7. Do I need a passport?

It depends on the type of cruise and the destination. United States and Canadian citizens should travel with proof of citizenship. This could be a valid passport, or birth certificate (with raised seal) and picture id, or a certified naturalization certificate with picture id. Non-United States citizens who are residing in the United States are required to travel with an Alien Registration Card and valid passports. All others must have valid passports and necessary visas at disembarkment. We will provide complete information on required documents in advance of your departure. You will have plenty of time to make arrangements.

8. What is there to do on board?

There are many organized activities on ships which may include water sports, exercise classes, fitness centers, games such as bingo, backgammon or bridge, casinos, live entertainment, karaoke, dance lessons, first-rate movies, and lots more. There are also activities that you may choose to undertake for some peace and quiet such as sunbathing, reading, or just taking in the view. It may take you a few days just to discover what's on board. And don't forget the shore excursions and all the exciting adventures awaiting you in ports of call!

9. Is participation in ship activities obligatory, or can I be on my own?

You have complete freedom to do as you wish, but you are required to have fun!

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10. What is included in the price of the cruise?

Just about everything -- cabin, taxes, meals, on-board activities and entertainment. Sometimes airfare is included. Be prepared to pay separately for alcohol, sodas, gambling, tips, phone calls, faxes, shore excursions, souvenirs, massages, hair styling, etc. Make sure you ask our cruise representative ahead of time so you will be prepared.

11. Is tipping required? If so, how much?

Tipping is your option. Some cruise lines include tipping in the price and will notify you if that's the case. Other lines have a no tipping policy. A safe rule of thumb is to plan for about $10 per day per person for the cabin steward, dining room waiter, and busboy. Other cruise personnel can be tipped for extraordinary services at your judgment.

12. How much money should I take with me?

This depends upon your spending habits and the extra expenses that you incur. See the questions above on what is included in the cost of the cruise and tipping. When you board ship you will be asked to start an account, which is similar to running a tab. All expenses will be charged to your cabin, and at the end of the cruise your credit card will be charged for on-board extras. Your representative can advise you on which cruise lines vary from this policy, and answer any questions you may have regarding this type of payment agreement.

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13. What seating options do I have at mealtime?

Most ships have two different times at which they seat guests during mealtime, called first or second seating. You choose your preference to dine early or late. However, some cruise lines are starting to change seating methods, calling them either Personal Choice with dining anytime from 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm, or Free Style Dining.

In addition, some ships offer theme restaurants such as Italian, Chinese, Japanese or Southwestern that are separate from the main dining room. Keep in mind that sitting at a large table will allow you to meet more people and be more social if you desire.

14.What about shore excursions?

Ships normally arrive in port early in the morning to give you time to get ashore, shop and explore the area. You would pay extra to go on any planned excursions that have been arranged by the ship's crew or local sightseeing companies. Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 per person in this case.

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15. What's there to do in port?

Cruises are an easy way to try out many different activities and travel to new destinations to see what you like. There are many adventures you can have on shore ranging from shopping at the local stores, riding horses across hills and beaches, climbing waterfalls, and searching ancient ruins. Not to mention fishing, golf, tennis, bicycling, rafting, scuba diving and windsurfing! And don't forget the nightlife-try the local nightclubs and casinos. Listen to the local native music, eat local foods, and discover other cultures and the birthplace of civilization! You can do all of this independently, or take a guided tour.

16. How long are cruises?

There are very short cruises running from three days, up to three months. You choose the cruise that fits your budget and schedule.

17. Where can I go?

The major cruise lines travel to just about any location that is available by water. Just give us a call and find out if there is an itinerary for your dreams, or click here. (designer: link to ?)

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18. How do I book a cruise?

Just call us at Toll Free: 1-800-826-4333 or complete our quote form. Your cruise consultant will help you choose the cruise that fits your vacation schedule, tastes, and budget. Your chosen consultant will be with you to plan every step of the way-from your doorstep, to your cabin and back home.

19. How do I pay for my cruise?

Normally you can make two payments -- a small deposit of $100 and up depending on your cruise per person to confirm your trip, with the balance due about 75 days before departure. If you make your arrangements within 60 days of departure, you must pay for the full amount. We accept major credit cards, personal checks and money orders.

20. What happens if I need to cancel my cruise?

Trip cancellation / interruption insurance is available for this purpose. Each cruise line will notify you of cancellation penalties or other requirements on their cruise brochure. Be sure to read this information, and ask us about this important insurance.

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21. Can I book on short notice?

It's best to plan ahead if you want a certain ship, cabin, and sailing date. You may even get a discount if you book early. However, if this isn't possible, many popular cruises have cabins available as a result of cancellations.

22. When will you send my tickets?

We will send your tickets about 15 days before departure. We will check the accuracy of the documents and make sure all is in order before sending them via US Priority Mail.

23. Do cruise lines allow group bookings?

Most cruise lines will accommodate groups, and often give reduced rates depending upon the number of people concerned. Availability varies depending upon the cruise line and the time of year.

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24. How many people are needed to get a group discount?

A minimum of eight cabins is needed for a group booking. Please ask us about this in order to ensure you receive the best rate for your group.

25. What is an air/sea package?

An air/sea cruise (fly/cruise) vacation package includes an air add-on in addition to the cruise rate. Call us about arrangements available from most major North American cities. They normally include transfers between the airport and ship, in addition to baggage handling.

26. What airline will I fly on if I purchase an air/sea package?

Cruise lines block space with major airlines depending on your place of departure. Your airline flights will be confirmed 30 days from the date of sailing, and at that time we will be able to contact the airline for your seat assignment.

27. Can I get frequent flier miles when I use an air/sea package?

You will receive credit for the mileage depending on the airline you have been assigned to. If you prefer a certain airline because of your mileage program, the cruise line will charge you an air deviation anywhere from $35 to $50 per person.

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28. What if I want to extend my cruise vacation?

We can arrange pre- or post-cruise land packages at the time of your booking. Often, your airline ticket will include helpful options such as free stopovers that enable you to make your own special arrangements.

29. What about passengers with special needs?

Cruise lines work hard to aid guests with special needs throughout their trip. However, in order to provide any necessary medical, physical or other services we must be notified well in advance. Most up-to-date cruise ships offer cabins specially designed to accommodate wheelchairs, or guests that require TTY communications. Please let us address your needs in order to make your cruise more enjoyable.

30. Will I get seasick?

It is unlikely. The most popular cruise areas have some of the calmest waters in the world, and accurate weather information is available in advance.

In addition, due to the ship size and stabilizers on modern ships, you will probably not notice any motion. However, preventative medicine is available on board to eliminate motion sickness.

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31. What activities are there to do after the sun goes down?

You are in for a treat if you like nightlife. Try dancing and disco in nightclubs and lounges, live entertainment, casinos, films, and special events and parties like the Captain's Cocktail Party, talent nights, masquerade balls, and late night buffets.

32. What choices do I have with cabins?

You have a choice of an inside or outside (ocean view) cabin. An inside cabin will not have a window, porthole or veranda. However, outside cabins have a window that is either a picture window or porthole. Some outside cabins also have a veranda and suite.

Cabins on the majority of cruise lines are relatively small. Many cabins with twin beds can be converted to a queen size bed. A cabin steward is available to help you with this, or to accommodate your needs for other items such as extra towels, blankets and pillows. You may ask about room safes, movies in your room, and other conveniences.

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33. Will I enjoy a cruise as a single person?

Yes. Many people go on cruises alone just to meet other people. Ask about singles parties on your ship, and for single rates on cabins and staterooms. Often, a cruise line will locate a roommate for you to share a double cabin.

34. Are all ships and cruises fairly similar?

No, there is a wide selection of cruise ships. You can sail with fewer than 100 passengers to more than 3,250. The environment ranges from casual to formal, and classically simple to ultra-luxurious.

35. Are there different classes of service?

All of the cruise ships offer the same class. The facilities are available to all passengers. The difference is the size and location of your cabin, which determines its price. The same polite service, on-board activities, menus, and entertainment are offered to everyone.

36. What if we want to celebrate a special day?

Indulge yourselves! Most cruise lines will be happy to sing to you and/or offer you a complimentary cake or dessert to honor the event. Special requests such as flowers and champagne may also be made. For this option or to arrange for a special private party, please let us know during the booking process.

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37. Is a cruise a good choice for honeymooners?

Yes, most definitely. The romantic environment on a cruise sets the stage for cozy dinners for two, sunset strolls on deck, and dancing at night under the stars. Most ships provide special services from a Sunday or Monday departure to champagne and breakfast in bed. Ask ahead of time about being married onboard or renewing your marriage vows in port!

38. Are there phones available?

The newer ships typically offer ship to shore phone services and offer telephones in passenger cabins. Be forewarned, however, that the rates are extremely high. You may also make a call to someone on shore through the ship's radio operator. Of course, telephones are available from most ports. In addition, many ships have fax capabilities.

39. Can I check my email from the ship?

A lot of the newer ships offer Internet access and business centers with computers. Computer use is available at a reasonable rate, but direct dial to your Internet access provider through your laptop is very expensive possibly at $10 + per minute. Check with us for service availability before booking your cruise.

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40. What about TVs and news?

Staterooms on many ships are equipped with televisions, and most ships have daily newsletters with news, headlines, selected stock quotes and sports scores.

41. Are there medical services onboard?

Just about every ship has a fully equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters).

42. Are laundry services available?

Almost all ships offer laundry and dry-cleaning facilities and many provide professional services at an additional charge. Most ships also have self-service facilities.

43. Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?

Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms, and many ships have hair dryers in cabins.

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44. Are parking facilities available for my car and/or RV while I'm on board?

Yes. They will charge a daily rate for parking your vehicle.

45. Are there meeting rooms onboard?

Almost every size ship has community rooms available for group meeting space. If you'd like to reserve a room ask us to contact the cruise line to coordinate schedules and make catering arrangements. Your ship may also offer audio-visual equipment.

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If you have any other questions please feel free to contact one of our friendly cruise consultants.

See also Travel Information >>

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