Cruise Reservations & Information
How do I book a cruise?
You may book directly with the cruise line through this website or contact us at 1-800-921-0458 for assistance. There are no service charges to book online or speak with an agent.
Can I place a cabin on hold?
Yes! If you see something you like and are not ready to confirm your cruise, contact a Sales Agent at 1-800-921-0458. A courtesy hold can be placed on a cabin while you make your final decision. Generally, Courtesy Holds are from 24 hours to 7 days depending on your departure date.
Are the rates the same if I book online or with an agent?
Absolutely! Whether you book online or with one of our agents the rate is the same.
What are Port Taxes/Government Fees?
Port Taxes are the port charges, which are fees assessed by government and other agencies, relating to the ship entering, leaving, docking, anchoring and/or remaining in port (e.g., stevedoring, waste removal, payroll for port employees). Government Fees include any and all fees, charges, and taxes imposed by U.S. and/or foreign governments or quasi-governmental authorities, including U.S. custom fees, head taxes, hotel taxes, air taxes incurred as part of a land tour, inspection fees, immigration and naturalization fees, and Internal Revenue Service fees.
What Is the Total Cost of My Cruise?
You can quickly and easily access the final price of your cruise by following these steps:
From the “Cruise Search Results” page:
1. Click the “Check Availability” link next to the date you want to sail on.
2. Select number of passengers (hint: In order to find the best rates fill in all the appropriate information) and click the “Continue” button.
3. Click the "Select" link located next to your desired cabin category. Please note the rates you see listed on this page is the cruise fare including the port charges.
4. Click the "Select" link located next to your desired cabin number/type.
5. This page--“Pricing Summary”--displays the Grand Total of your cruise including all port charges and government fees.
The final price of your cruise includes port charges and taxes, accommodations, meals and most snacks, and most onboard activities and entertainment. Airfare, airport transfers, and insurance are usually not included unless noted in your final cruise breakdown.
What is not included in the final price?
Your cruise price does not include shore excursions, alcoholic beverages or carbonated soft drinks, photographs, gratuities, spa and beauty treatments, medical services, casino expenditures or other miscellaneous items you may purchase on board. Airfare, airport transfers, and insurance are also usually not included.
Can I cancel my cruise or move to another sailing date?
Generally if you are 75 days from your cruise you can cancel or move your reservation to another sailing date without penalty. Please note that some cruise fares are highly discounted and may be a special non-refundable/ non changeable fare. If final payment has been made certain penalties apply for canceling or moving your cruise reservation. When you confirm a reservation, we will send you a full brochure in the mail which will advise you of exact penalties based on the cruise you have selected.
Do I need Insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance. Trip insurance offers protection if you have to cancel or interrupt your cruise due to injury, sickness, or death to you, a traveling companion, or immediate family member. Please note insurance only is available if you are physically able to go on a cruise. Pre-existing conditions are covered but certain restrictions do apply. Please contact Customer Service for details.
What does Insurance cover?
Trip insurance offers protection if you have to cancel or interrupt your cruise due to injury, sickness, or death to you, a traveling companion, or immediate family member. It does not cover unstable, pre-existing conditions. In addition, trip insurance provides emergency assistance while you are on vacation, baggage protection, and trip delay coverage. Insurance must be booked before or upon final payment of your cruise. For details on specific cruise line insurance programs, please contact a Customer Service Agent to assist you.
Are there any further discount promotions and incentives?
The rates reflected on our site are directly from the cruise line and are typically the lowest available rate. However, you may qualify for additional incentives such as group discounts and and other discounts depending on the cruise and type of cabin purchased. Please contact a Customer Service Agent for details.
Will the price of my cruise change?
Once you have confirmed your cruise with a deposit, the rate of the cruise price will not increase. However, the taxes and government fees are subject to change. This is a rare occassion, but we are unable to forsee changes by state or federal governments' tax policies.
Do children sail free or at a discount?
Most cruise lines do not offer discounts for children. The major exception is Disney Cruise Line. On Disney ships (with 2 full-fare adults sailing), children under the age of 3 are charged only port fees and taxes; children ages 3-12 sail at a discounted children’s rate plus port charges and taxes; children over the age of 12 sail at 3rd/4th passenger rate plus port charges and taxes.
Norwegian Cruise Line also lets children under 2 sail for port charges and taxes only; Holland America Line offers child rates on select sailings. Please call us for more details.
Please note age of the child is at the time of sailing not at the time of booking your cruise.
Are there hidden charges such as ticketing or processing fees?
No. We do not charge any processing/ticketing fees or mailing fees.
Do I have to pay the full amount of my cruise?
You may pay the full amount or a deposit if your cruise is more than 80 days from your departure date. Please note some Holiday Cruises, European, South America, and Panama Canal Cruises final payment is due 90 days from your departure date. Your invoice will reflect the appropriate balance due date based on your curies.
See below for a guideline of deposit requirements.
Carnival
Deposits
$100 per person: 3-day cruises
$150 per person: 4-day cruises
$200 per person: 5-day cruises
$250 per person: 7-day cruises (except Alaska)
$300 per person: 8-day cruises
$350 per person: 7-day Alaska cruises and Cruise Tours
$400 per person: 10-day cruises
Celebrity
Deposits
$250 per person: 7-day cruises
$450 per person: 8-day cruises and European cruises
Crystal
Deposits
10% of final price
Disney
Deposits
$200 per person: all cruises
Holland America
Deposits
Deposits are based on itinerary and length of cruise. For example, a 7-day Alaska cruise requires a deposit of $350 per person.
Norwegian
Deposits
$100 per person: 1- to 5-day cruises
$250 per person: 6- to 7-day cruises
$400 per person: 8-day or longer cruises
Princess
Deposits
$250-$350 per person: 7-day or less cruises
$450-$600 per person: 8-day or longer cruises
Royal Caribbean
Deposits
$100 per person: 3-, 4-, and 5-day cruises
$250 per person: 6- and 7-day cruises
$450 per person: 8-day and longer cruises
Windstar
Deposits
$500 per person: 5- to 8-day cruises
$1000 per person: 9-day or longer cruises
How will my credit card be charged?
All charges to your credit card are direct with your selected Cruise Line.
A deposit will be charged to your credit card upon booking (Holland America waits 24 hours). Please be sure that your credit card information (name, address, card #, etc.) is accurate. Any incorrect information could cause your booking to be cancelled by the cruise line, with no guarantee that you will recoup any charges to your card.
The final payment of your cruise will be automatically charged on the date noted on your invoice. If you would like to change your form of payment, please contact us before this date. If we are unable to authorize the final payment of your cruise, we reserve the right to cancel your cruise in order to avoid costly penalties to you. The cruise may be rebooked at the rate available at the time we are able to authorize payment. We are unable to extend final payment due dates.
Debit Cards may also be used for payment of your cruise. However, some debit cards have a daily limit. Please check with your financial institution before using your debit card.
Can I pay by check?
Sorry checks are not accepted. For your protection, we recommend that you use your Credit Card when making payments.
Do you offer payment plans?
After the appropriate deposit is made you may pay as much or as little on your cruise each month as long as all payments are made before the final due date. Please contact our Customer Service Center for details.
How will I know that my reservation is confirmed?
Once you have successfully completed the reservation process online, you will receive a confirmation number from the cruise line. We will verify that all cruise and insurance payments were confirmed and send you a final e-mail confirmation with further instructions within 48 hours.
Back to Top
Pre-registration/Ticketing
When will I get my tickets?
Generally, you will receive your tickets via express mail within 5 days to 4 weeks of your sail date. For last-minute bookings (within 30 days of sail date), tickets may be issued as pier-pickup (you pick up the tickets at the pier on the day of your sailing).
Please be advised that electronic documents are sent via email for Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, and Celebrity Cruise Line sailings.
If you do not receive your tickets within five days of your cruise date please contact our Customer Service Center.
What types of documentation do I need?
Apart from your tickets, U.S. and Canadian citizens must present proof of citizenship in two of the following forms: passport; federal or state government-issued photo I. D. card (e.g., driver’s license); birth certificate (original or certified copy).
For example, you’re covered if you have the following combinations of identity:
1. Passport and driver’s license
2. Passport and birth certificate
3. Driver’s license and birth certificate
If you are married, have taken your spouse’s surname, and plan to use your birth certificate as a form of identification, you will need a marriage certificate or a valid photo I. D. card to support the name change.
Children under the age of 16 need proof of citizenship (e.g., passport, birth certificate) and should present photo identification as well; children ages 16-18 need photo identification.
*Starting in January 2007, travelers will be required to present a valid passport when traveling to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central (including Mexico) and South America, and Canada. Travelers lacking the proper documentation may be denied boarding or re-entry to the United States without a refund. To read more about this new requirement, please click here. (US Requirements Page)
What do I need if I’m not American or Canadian?
Citizens of countries other than the United States and Canada are required to present both a valid passport and U.S. multiple re-entry visa (B-2 Visitor’s Visa) or a visa waiver. Resident aliens need both a passport and an alien resident card. Non US Residents and resident aliens should contact the appropriate consulate, U.S. embassy, or U.S. immigration office to inquire about necessary travel documentation.
Are there forms I need to complete before I sail?
The United States Department of Immigration requires that each passenger pre-register no later than 14 days prior to your sailing date. Everyone must pre-register. Failure to pre-register may result in denied boarding. You may pre-register for your confirmed cruise by clicking this link: Pre-registration Page
Back to Top
Age Requirements
Are there age requirements?
Different cruise lines have different policies, so please be advised of the following before booking:
Carnival
· If you are under the age of 21 and SINGLE you MUST be accompanied by a parent, relative, or guardian 25 years of age or older in the same stateroom. The only exception to this policy is when parents are traveling with their children in different cabins.
· If you are under the age of 21 and MARRIED, you and your spouse can cruise so long as proof of marriage is presented.
· Infants are REQUIRED to be at least 4 months at the time sailing.
Celebrity
· No guest under the age of 21 will be booked in a stateroom unless accompanied by an adult 21 years or older. The only situations where minors (under 21) can be berthed without an adult (21 or older) in the stateroom are when at least one parent is sailing or when the stateroom guests are legally married.
· Infants of all ages are welcome aboard Celebrity Cruises.
Crystal
· If you are under the age of 18, an adult MUST accompany you over the age of 21. If the accompanying adult is not the minor's parent or legal guardian, a notarized parental/guardian consent letter that authorizes the minor's travel and further authorizes medical treatment in case of an emergency must be delivered to a Crystal Cruise representative at the pier.
· Infants MUST be at least 6 months at the time of sailing.
· Crystal reserves the right to restrict the number of those less than 3 years of age aboard the ship.
Disney
· Minors under the age of 18 not traveling with a parent or legal guardian must be accompanied by an adult over the age of 21 in the same stateroom and must have the Cruise Contract signed by a parent or legal guardian. The signed Cruise Contract must be received upon Walt Disney World Resort check-in or prior to embarkation.
· Infants less than 12 weeks old will not be allowed to travel aboard Disney Cruise Line ships.
Holland America
· Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone who is at least 25 years old; one adult chaperone is required for every five people under 21.
· Minors under age 18 traveling to any foreign country must be accompanied by both parents or have a notarized letter of consent signed by the parent(s) not traveling. If the other parent is deceased or the child has only one legal parent, a notarized statement must be obtained as proof.
· Infants 12 weeks or younger will NOT be allowed to travel aboard Holland America ships.
Norwegian
· A passenger under 21 years of age must be accompanied in the same or connecting stateroom by a passenger 21 years or older who expressly agrees to be responsible for the under 21 passenger throughout the cruise. If the accompanying adult is not the minor's parent or legal guardian, a notarized parental/guardian consent letter that authorizes the minor's travel and further authorizes medical treatment in case of an emergency must be delivered to an NCL representative at the pier.
· Two people under the age of 21 may travel together in the same stateroom without someone over the age of 21 in the same stateroom, if they purchased the cruise under the family plan and have at least one person who is 21 years or older in the adjoining stateroom.
· Infants of all ages are welcome aboard NCL Cruises.
Princess
· The minimum passenger age is 6 months on Alaska and Caribbean cruises, 18 months on Exotic cruises and 12 months on all other cruises.
· Passengers under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by a Passenger over the age of 21. If the adult is not the parent of the Passenger under the age of 18, Parental/Guardianship Consent must be signed by his/her parent or legal guardian and delivered to Carrier before sailing.
Royal Caribbean
· No guest under the age of twenty-one (21) will be booked in a stateroom unless accompanied by an adult twenty-five (25) years of age, or older. This age limit will be waived for minor children sailing with their parents or guardians in adjacent staterooms or under-aged married couples (proof of marriage is required).
· Infants of all ages are welcome aboard Royal Caribbean Cruises.
· Please note: An individual's age on the date of sailing determines his or her status for the entire cruise vacation.
Windstar
· Passengers less than 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or chaperone that is at least 25 years old; one adult chaperone is required for every five people under 21.
· Windstar does NOT encourage children on board its ships, owing the adult oriented atmosphere and intimate size of its vessels. However, if you must bring a child, the official policy will admit them so long as they are OVER 24 weeks of age.
Back to Top
Flights, Transfers, Directions to the Port, & Departure Times
How do I get to the departure port?
For addresses, driving directions, and parking information, please click on the appropriate city on the top left of this page.
If you are still unsure of how to locate your departure port, please contact our Customer Service Center. Please be advised that it is the customer's responsibility to verify his or her own driving route.
What is the latest flight I can take?
You should plan to arrive at the airport nearest your port of departure at least three hours before embarkation begins. We recommend if you are planning the air yourself and not through the cruise lines Air/Sea program that you arrive at your departure port a day early. If you’re late, the ship will sail without you.
What happens if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
If you have purchased travel insurance or arranged air through the cruise line, you are eligible for up to $500 in reimbursement costs incurred while catching up with your ship at its next port of call. This applies only to carrier-caused delays or other covered reasons.
If you have arranged air privately and have not purchased travel insurance, you are responsible for all costs incurred while catching up with your ship at its next port of call.
Can I customize my air through the cruise line?
Yes. You can customize your flight by selecting the dates, times, airlines, departure cities, and other flight-related options of your choice. The cruise lines charge $35-$50 per person for this service, in addition to any airline charges.
Should I book air through the cruise line?
Booking air through the cruise line protects you if your flight is delayed and you either miss your cruise or are running late. If you are running late for your cruise, cruise line representatives will make every effort to get you to the ship before departure. If you miss your cruise altogether, the cruise line will reimburse you up to $500 in costs incurred while catching up with your ship at its next port of call.
In addition, air rates offered by the cruise lines are often less expensive than those available to the general public--especially on holidays and during high seasons--and the departure times and dates ensure that you will reach your departure port on time, barring any prolonged delays.
How much are transfers from airport to ship?
Transfer costs depend entirely on the cruise line, your airport of arrival, and the distance from the airport of arrival to the departure port.
How do I arrange transfers?
You can reserve transfers by contacting us once you’Ave booked your cruise. Please note if you book your cruise within 30 days of your departure date transfers may not be available.
What time do I board the ship?
Ship embarkation usually begins approximately 3 hours prior to departure. You should check your ticket package for an exact time.
When does the ship depart?
Your ticket package will include a detailed cruise itinerary. Most ships depart in the late afternoon (around 4 or 5 pm), but be sure to check your detailed itinerary for an exact departure time.
Back to Top
Dining
What are first and Second seatings for dining?
First seating is the earliest evening dining time available, usually around 6:00 pm or 6:30 pm. Elderly passengers and families with children tend to select this seating. Second seating is the later dining time, usually around 8:00 pm or 8:30 pm.
Norwegian offers “Free Style” cruising which you may dine when you want. Princess offers along with set dining times “Personal Choice” which you may dine when you want.
Can I get special-need meals?
Special-need meals (e.g., kosher, diabetic) are available upon request, but must be arranged in advance.
What is proper dining attire?
Most cruise ships have one or two formal nights per cruise, men are encouraged to wear tuxedoes or nice suits, and women cocktail dresses or evening gowns. Other nights are casual or semi-formal; men can wear khakis/dress pants, collared shirt and sports jacket (semi-formal), and women skirts, dresses, or pantsuits.
Lunch and breakfast are casual, and if you don’t relish the idea of formal night, alternative dining options are always available.
What if I don't like my tablemates?
This is rarely a problem. However, if you wish to move to another table, speak with the maitre d'. He'll make every effort to seat you with more compatible dining companions...discretely and politely.
Are there non-smoking areas?
Today, virtually all ships have smoking and non-smoking tables or non-smoking sections in lounges. Dining rooms are non-smoking.
Back to Top
Cabins & Services
What are outside and inside cabins?
Outside (ocean view) cabins have a porthole/window, while inside (interior) cabins do not.
What is a Cabin Guarantee (GTY or GUAR)?
When booking a GTY / GUAR / GUARANTEED cabin, passengers are Guaranteed the best cabin available within the category booked. For example, passengers booking a GTY / GUAR / GUARANTEED Ocean view cabin are guaranteed a cabin with an ocean view. Your cabin may be located on any passenger deck of the ship, but you will be guaranteed AT LEAST the category for which you paid, or the best available BETTER cabin on a better deck or higher category. You will receive your cabin assignment when you check in for your cruise.
What are W, X, Y and Z cabins?
On Celebrity's and Royal Caribbean’s ships, X, Y, and Z cabins are guaranteed cabin designations for outside with balcony, outside, and inside cabins, respectively. On Holland America’s ships, V designates a guaranteed verandah cabin, W and X designate guaranteed outside cabins, and Y and Z designate guaranteed inside cabins. On Carnival's ships, IS is an inside guaranteed (category 4A and up), and OV is an ocean view guarantee (category 6A and up).
Can I change cabins once on board?
If available you may upgrade to a higher cabin at check-in or on board. The upgrade will usually not free. If you are dissatisfied with your cabin once on board – The Pursers Office will try to accommodate your request based on the availability on board. If you are completely dissatisfied with your ship and accommodations, most cruise lines will allow you disembark at the first Port of Call. A refund is generally pro-rated for the unused portion of your cruise. However, transportation home is at your expensive.
What amenities will my cabin have?
Cabin amenities vary depending on cruise line, ship, and category, but most ships include the following: shampoo and soap, safe, TV, closet, private bathroom, hairdryer, and refrigerator. Please note the following exceptions:
Hairdryers:
- Carnival: only on the Conquest, Destiny, Legend, Pride, Spirit, Triumph, and Victory
- Holland America: all ships except the Noordam
Refrigerators:
- Carnival: only on the Conquest, Destiny, Legend, Pride, Spirit, Triumph, and Victory; some suites on older ships
- Disney: coolers only; refrigerators can be rented for duration of cruise and are supplied free of cost for medical reasons
- Norwegian: depends on category; some outside cabins and most suites on older ships
- Royal Caribbean: Adventure, Explorer, Navigator, and Voyager only; some outside cabins and most suites on older ships
- Princess: all cabins on all ships
Due to safety reasons, irons are not provided in cabins, and you are not allowed to bring one onboard. Most ships have laundry services and/or laundry rooms with irons. Check your brochure for your particular ship's offerings.
Are ships & cabins accessible for passengers with disabilities?
The level of accessibility for passengers with disabilities varies significantly from ship to ship. In general, the newer ships are more accessible than the older ones. In response to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), however, the major cruise lines have been making concerted efforts to bring all their ships up to code. For detailed information on the accessibility of most major cruise ships, we recommend Access-Able's website: www.access-able.com.
Other services such as wheelchairs, oxygen, and dialysis are available and must be requested in advance.
Are there medical services onboard?
Yes, all cruise ships (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) have a fully-equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency. The infirmary charges for service, just like a doctor or emergency room.
Are there laundry services aboard?
Yes! Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and dry-cleaning services. However, there is an additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services. Most ships also have self-service launderettes.
Are there meeting rooms onboard?
Just about every full size ship has public rooms to offer as meeting space for groups. If you'd like to make such arrangements please contact us.
How does someone call/e-mail me onboard?
Your tickets and cruise line brochure will have detailed phone numbers on how to contact the ship while at sea. Ships can be reached via direct-dial satellite or fax. You can also telephone, telex, radiogram or fax to anywhere in the world and be billed at applicable ship-to-shore rates. Nearly all-major cruise ships now offer computer terminals with Internet access, which can be rented by the minute or hour.
Back to Top
Life Onboard
Are there different classes of service?
Cruise ships are "one-class." Everyone onboard can use all of the ship's facilities. The price of a cabin is based primarily on its size and location. Regardless of the category you book, you'll enjoy the same courteous service, menus, activities, and entertainment as everyone else onboard. Some luxury cruise liners may offer more amenities in certain cabin types such as private dining rooms and priority boarding.
Is there a charge for entertainment?
No. All cruise lines offer entertainment as part of your cruise ticket. There's no cover. No minimum. No charge for an admission ticket. The shows are live. The movies are first-rate. The variety is limitless.
What should I pack?
Your cruise tickets and brochure will outline various suggestions for your cruise itinerary. Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. On a formal dining night or at the Captain’s Gala, for example, formal attire is generally required, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a tuxedo or gown. (If you don't own a tuxedo you can usually rent one onboard.) Give our Customer Service Center a call for details.
Where is smoking prohibited/permitted?
Smoking is prohibited only in dining rooms/restaurants, hallways, and most show lounges. Designated areas have been provided for smoking.
Is there security on board?
All Cruise Lines consider your safety as their number one priority.
Back to Top
General Questions
How to purchase items on board?
Most cruise lines will set up an on board account for purchases at check-in. You can secure your on board account with cash, travelers checks, or a credit card. When going ashore it is best to use a credit card. Cash should be carried in small denominations. The Pursers office is available for currency exchange if needed.
How much are the gratuities/tips?
Most cruise lines suggest $9-$10 per day, per guest. This amount covers tips for your cabin steward, waiter, and busboy. A 15% gratuity is usually added to all bar tabs. Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion. In general, the gratuities/tips are added to your on board account.
How much is an unlimited-soda card?
The cost of an unlimited-soda card depends on the age of the cardholder and the length of the cruise. For example, on a 7-day cruise, a card for a child under 18 would be approximately $20, while passengers over 18 would be charged around $35. Cards apply exclusively to fountain soda (no cans) and may only be purchased onboard. Please note that these rates are subject to change and should be verified upon booking.
Can a pregnant woman travel?
Pregnancy is regarded as a medical condition. The cruise line may require a medical certificate establishing the passenger's due date and fitness to travel. In no case will the cruise line permit passengers who are 24 weeks or more into pregnancy to travel.
Is motion discomfort a problem?
Not really. The most popular cruise areas boast some of the calmest waters in the world. In addition, stabilizers on modern ships, advance availability of accurate weather information, and development of effective preventative medications have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort.
How long are cruises?
Itineraries can range from as little as 1 day to as long as three months!
Where can I go?
Explore the world! Cruises visit practically any destination accessible by water.
Are all ships and cruises fairly similar?
Cruise ships can range from under 200 feet to over 1,000 feet. You can sail with anywhere from fewer than 100 passengers to over 2,600. Experience atmospheres ranging from casual to formal, simple to ultra-deluxe. Ships range from large yachts, sailing vessels, to ocean liners.
Can I book on short notice?
Even the most popular cruises sometimes have space available because of late cancellations. But, to get exactly the ship, cabin and sailing date you want, you should plan and book early. Most cruise lines also offer early booking discounts for customers who plan ahead. However, due to increase security and homeland security cruises are not available to be booked 24 hours prior to departure.
Can I extend my cruise vacation?
We can arrange pre- or post-cruise land packages at the same time you book your cruise. And, in many cases, your airline ticket will include helpful options, such as free stopovers, that enable you to make your own special arrangements. If you need accommodations at your departure seaport before or after your cruise - visit our website at www.CruiseSeaportHotels.com to see a list of hotels sorted by proximity to the seaport.
Do cruise lines accept group bookings?
Yes, anyone can be considered a group. All you need is a minimum of 16 people in eight cabins. Most lines will work with groups, depending on how many people are involved. Policies vary from company to company and sometimes during certain times of the year. Contact us for more details.
Can we celebrate a special occasion?
Yes! Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers, wine or cheese. You can even arrange for a special private party. All you have to do is advise us in advance. Most cruise lines offer complimentary cakes, birthday wishes table side for the occasion.
Even if you are not celebrating an occasion you may wish to order a special bon voyage gift for your stateroom. Impress that someone special with a bon voyage gift. Contact our Customer Service Center for details.
Do cruise lines welcome families with kids?
Most cruise lines make a special point of providing supervised activities for youngsters, especially during school holidays. If your children enjoy swimming, sports, games, movies and the adventure of new places, they'll love a family cruise. You'll find the kids adapt to shipboard life with ease, and you won't have to wonder what they're up to every minute. The cruise staff will help keep them busy and entertained.
Can singles have fun on a cruise?
Cruising is ideal for people traveling alone, because it's so easy to meet other people. In fact, most ships have parties just for singles early on, so you can start to be involved right away. Most ships also have single cabins as well as single rates for double staterooms. In many cases, a cruise line will even find you a roommate to share a double if you ask them. Contact us for details on a Single Share Program.
Can I get married on a cruise? Honeymoon Packages?
Our Romance Department can help. Most cruise line offer wedding and honeymoon packages. Packages range in price visit our Romance Website: www.cruiseweddingpackages.com
Back to Top
Shore Excursions
What's there to do in port?
There is so much to do the decision is what to do! Here is a helpful hint – Research the ship and the city you want to leave from before choosing any specific shore excursions or ports of call. The Cruise Lines can change the itinerary at any time based on weather, congestion at the port or for any reason. You’ll spend more time on the ship than you will in port so make sure your choice for a ship is one that offers as much for you to do on board as well in the port of call. You have the choice of arranging your shore excursions on board or you may book them in advance. Another helpful hint – Shore Excursion vendors in every port cater to the Cruise Line Industry. Cruise Lines contract with various vendors, which are the ones you see online, or with your tickets. Shore excursions through the Cruise Line are more expensive so it pays to shop around.
We recommend visiting Viator - which offers world wide shore excursions. We highly recommend you research all the possibilities. If you see something that is a “must do” then book it in advance, or if you can “live without it", then book it on the ship. Either way the choice is yours. Keep in mind if for some reason the ship must skip a port or is running late and it affects a shore excursion you have booked, your money is refunded. If you should need any assistance with planning your shore excursions, please give our Customer Service Center a call.
How physically challenging are the shore excursions?
Shore Excursions are designed from high energy levels to low energy levels. Each excursion will describe the degree of fitness that is required each excursion.
What do shore excursions Include?
Shore excursions usually include transportation or reimbursement for transportation according to the itinerary, meals, refreshments, guides, and entrance fees as indicated in the tour description book. Please read the descriptions, which are sometimes noted as symbols carefully and look for the above mention items as inclusive in the fare. Fares for shore excursions are subject to change without notice.
How do I book shore excursions?
After you have confirmed your reservation you may begin your research on Shore Excursion through the Cruise Lines Website. Please note depending on how far in advance you have made your reservation shore excursion might not yet be available. You may also book your shore excursions when you receive your tickets. Your package will include a shore excursion guide. Once you’ve selected the excursions you wish to take, you can make reservations by booking on the cruise line’s website, calling the cruise line directly, or booking once you’re onboard the ship. Many popular excursions sell out quickly, so we recommend reserving as far in advance as possible. Don’t forget to shop around and compare pricing on our recommended shore excursion websites, Viator.
When and where do shore excursions depart?
Advance reservation tickets will instruct times and meeting places for your shore excursion.
Will the ship wait if I'm late from a Shore Excursion?
No! All guests are required to be back aboard their ship no later than 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, which is listed in the daily bulletin and at the gangway as you leave the ship. Regardless of whom you book your shore excursion with, it is a good idea to confirm with your tour guide or shore excursion vendor the time you must be back at the ship. Shore Excursion Vendors cater to the Cruise Line so, they are aware of the ships schedule – remind them anyway! However, if you leave your tour, or schedule a tour knowing that it may be late it will be your responsibility to secure transportation and return to the pier on time. If you don't make it, they'll see you at the next port at your expense.
What types of transportation are used for Shore Excursions?
Transportation varies from port and the country. Your shore excursion description will describe the transportation used. If it does not ask! If transportation is not included, know if cabs are readily accessible back from your excursion to the ship. Some Cruise Lines provide transportation from a city center or meeting point within each port, especially in European Ports. While on board, ask the Pursers Office if such transportation exists for your ship.
Should I tip our Guide or Driver?
This is optional, however, in some countries, these personnel may anticipate that if you were pleased with their services, then it is customary to extend a gratuity in a monetary way. A commonly accepted guideline is $1 per person for a half day and $2 per person for a full day.
Will the ship offer details about each Port of Call?
Yes, on most Cruise Lines a qualified lecturer will hold informative talks on each port of call you visit. Most ships also provide a daily newsletter, which will offer helpful information about each port of call. If you still have questions, the Shore Excursion desk or the Pursers Office will be glad to answer them. You should also do a little research before you go. Your local library or bookstore should have all kinds of books pertaining to your destination. Frommer's and Fodor's are wonderful sources of information identifying local points of interest, culture, and history.
My shore excursion is early or all day will I miss a meal?
No, Most tour departure times work with the ship's breakfast hours, so you can enjoy your meal aboard then go ashore. However, on some full day tours, or if you take more than one tour in a day, your return on board may not coincide with meal hours. A buffet, snack, or room service is usually available all the time.
What should I wear or bring?
Please be mindful of that other countries may have more conservative ideas about dress than you're accustomed. Your ships newsletter or Shore Excursion Lecture will offer suggestions. Cruise lines suggest when visiting places of worship (cathedrals), you dress conservatively, avoiding shorts or sundresses.
Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes at all times. When visiting ruins or walking on cobblestone streets, wear rubber-soled shoes. It's also smart to wear a sun hat.
Shore Excursions plus Shopping?
In most cases shopping time is allocated within the framework of the excursions. However, tours are not designed primarily for shopping.
Back to Top
|
International Cruise Center®