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Top 10 Cruise
Traveler Tips
& Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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What is Included with your cruise vacation:
Shipboard accommodations
Ocean transportation
Most meals
Some beverages
Most entertainment aboard the vessel
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What is Not Included with your cruise vacation:
Air transportation
Transfers
Items of a personal nature such as shore excursions, specialty
restaurant fees, some beverages, photographs, gratuities/service fees,
medical services, AquaSpa® service, etc.
Travel Insurance
Top 10 Cruise Traveler Tips
- Purchase trip/vacation interruption insurance.
This is worth the nominal investment and will give you peace of mind.
- Review your cruise documents in advance for
important guidelines and travel tips.
- Prior to leaving home, call the airline, or
check their website for flight arrival/departure information. Ask if
you flight is coming from another city or if it already at the airport.
- Be at the airport early, 2 hours or more
unless local circumstances dictate allowing a longer time. Security
screenings take additional time.
- Minimize carry on luggage or be prepared to
have them searched and suspicious items confiscated (nail files,
scissors/clippers, etc.) Please make sure luggage is clearly tagged inside
and out.
- Make sure necessary medical items are with you
rather than in checked luggage.
- Make sure you have your passport and other
travel identification on your person, not in checked bags.
- Lower the stress level of "getting to the
ship on-time" by arranging a pre-cruise land package. Consider arriving
a delay early, especially when flying a long distance to the cruise or from
November through April, the East Coast can experience weather delays and
shut downs.
- Expect delays and longer lines, and be
pleasantly surprised if they are not that bad.
- Be patient, once onboard your cruise, you will
have a fantastic time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Pregnancy
or other medical conditions.
Socializing
Clothing
 Dining
Medical
 Services
Safety & Information
Useful Websites
Q.
Can singles have fun on a cruise?
A.
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, have single cabins as
well as single rates for double staterooms. In many cases, when reserving one of
our celebrity groups we can put you in touch with other singles in the group.
You can talk and see if you feel compatible enough to room together so you can
both save money.
Q.
Is it easy to meet people?
A.
A cruise ship is a great place to make new
friends, because everyone's so friendly. The atmosphere is cordial,
and relaxed.
Being part of our group will give you all kinds of things in common to talk
about: at dinner, during cocktails, around the pool, or along the promenade rail. And don't be surprised
if you find yourself making arrangements to meet them aboard ship again next
year.
Q.
Will there be people like me?
A.
No matter what you've heard to the contrary,
there's no such thing as a typical cruise passenger! All kinds of people take
cruises... of all ages... from all walks of life... singles, couples and
families. Passengers can vary from ship to ship and cruise to cruise. Just ask
your "certified cruiseaholic" for advice on the best ship for you,
based on your tastes and lifestyle.
Q.
What should I pack?
A.
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. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion.
For the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more
formal, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a dinner jacket or
gown.
Q.
Will I need a tuxedo?
A.
On some cruises, formal dinners or parties are
part of the fun. But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. If you do want to
dress in the latest style many ships offer tuxedo rental services. Even on the most
formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions.
Q.
Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?
A.
Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the
staterooms. But do check with us to be sure. Many ships even feature hair-dryers
in your cabin.
Q.
What are different meal seatings?
A.
Some ships' dining rooms can accommodate all
passengers in one seating. But most ships have two seatings which differ only by
time. To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine early or late and request your preference when you book.
Which ever seating you choose,
remember that one of the best ways to make new friends is to ask for a large
table.
Q.
Is cruise ship dining as good as I've been
told?
A.
Everything you've heard about cruise ship dining
is true. You'll find a varied selection of entrées (appetizers, salads, soups,
vegetables, and desserts, too) every time you sit down. And there's virtually no
limit on what or how much you can order. Just because your cruise ship offers
plenty of delicious food doesn't mean you'll come home out of shape. You can
choose low-cal, spa, or fitness menu selections that are just as tempting as the
regular menu.
You can also jog, do aerobics,
work out in the gym, swim, golf, play tennis, and much more. Burning calories
was never so much fun! Best of all, the one thing you'll never see on a cruise
ship menu is a price!
Q.
Can I get a special diet?
A.
Most ships can accommodate salt-free,
low-carbohydrate, Kosher, or other diet preferences. This request must
be made in advance, so be sure to send it to us in writing at least 90 days
prior to sailing.
Q.
What if I don't like my tablemates?
A.
Rarely is this 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.
Q.
Are there non-smoking areas?
A.
Today, virtually all ships have smoking and
non-smoking sections in the bars and night clubs.
Many cruise ship dining rooms are now totally smoke-free.
Q.
Can we celebrate a "special" day?
A.
Absolutely! Most cruise lines will even treat you
to a complimentary cake and a chorus of Happy Whatever to honor the occasion.
Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers,
canapes, wine or cheese. You can even arrange for a special private party. All
you have to do is advise us in advance.
Q.
Is cruising right for honeymooners?
A.
Without a doubt. Cruising offers an atmosphere
that's just right for romance...cozy dinners for two, strolling on deck at
sunset, dancing the night away (even under the stars) and so much more to
remember forever.
Most lines provide special
services from Sunday or Monday departures to welcome champagne and breakfast in
bed. (And, speaking of beds, most ships have them in double, queen, or king
sizes!) Also, some ships offer special programs for performing a marriage
ceremony or renewing your marriage vows in port.
Q.
Can we stay in touch with the outside?
A.
Quite easily. Most ships have a daily newsletter
with news, headlines, selected stock quotes and sports scores. Staterooms on
many ships are even equipped with televisions.
While most ships now have
telephones in passenger cabins, you can also call someone on shore through the
ship's radio operator while at sea. And, you can make phone calls from most
ports. In addition, many ships have fax capabilities and newer ships offer
Internet access and e-mail capabilities to passengers.
Q.
What about tipping?
A.
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A
general rule of thumb is to plan for about $3.00 per person per day for
your room steward and dining room waiter, and $2.00
per person for your
busboy. Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services at your
discretion.
Q.
Are there medical services onboard?
A.
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some
smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully-equipped medical
facility and staff to handle almost any emergency.
Q.
Are there laundry services aboard?
A.
Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities
and a great many provide dry-cleaning services. There is, however, an additional
charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services. Most ships also have
self-service launderettes.
Q.
Can I extend my cruise vacation?
A.
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.
Q.
Is motion discomfort a problem?
A.
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.
If you are concerned, check with your family doctor for his recommendations.
Q.
It sounds too good to be true! Is it?
A.
The one major complaint we hear over and over
again is that cruises end far too soon! Beyond that, it's hard to find any
negatives. After all, you don't have to run to make plane connections to get
from one port to the next. You don't have the hassles of making dinner or
nightclub reservations. You don't have the bother of packing and unpacking as
you move from place to place. You don't get unexpected, expensive surprises at
restaurants or nightclubs.
You have a wealth of options for
shopping, adventure, sightseeing, exploring, entertaining and sports activities.
All you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying your vacation. Most
importantly, every crew and staff member onboard is dedicated to making your
cruise vacation the best vacation of your life (until you top it next year with
your next cruise!)
Safety
& Information
Some items should not be carried
on an aircraft in either carry-on or checked luggage because of the danger
they represent for the passengers and crew. Many of these items are commonly
used at work or in the home, but may become a hazard in flight due to changes
in temperature and pressure that can cause items to leak, generate toxic fumes
or start a fire. Some exemptions are allowed for medical devices and personal
care items. If in doubt, check with your air carrier. http://airsafe.com/danger.htm
A
Few Words about Airport Security
We want your trip to be relaxing and free from
disruptions. If you follow these security tips, you'll speed your way through
the airport and feel more comfortable about each airport's efforts to protect
you and your fellow passengers.
If you have any questions, please contact me: Susan@CruiseEvents.net
- Keep your photo ID and your ticket, boarding
pass, or a copy of your itinerary ( if you are traveling on an electronic
ticket) easily accessible. You will need to show your photo ID and travel
documents several times.
- Each piece of checked luggage must have a name
tag that matches the name on your ticket. You also need a sticker inside
your luggage with your name and address in case your tag gets removed. Most
luggage today is soft sided and black. Do not risk someone erroneously
removing your bag from a luggage carousel. Make your luggage appear
differently. Use large colored tape, place stickers on all sides, tie
brightly colored yarn around the handles, etc.
- Pack sharp or hazardous objects such as
razors, knives, matches, lighters, remote controls, scissors or anything
that could be used as a weapon in your checked luggage. Do not carry these
items onboard or they will be taken from you. If security takes anything
from you, ask them to mail it to you in an envelope you can get from the
gift shop or airline clubs if you are a member. Address it to your
destination, stamp it and mail it. It is wise to travel with a stamped
envelope...just in case. Some airports, however, have removed all mail boxes
for security. If you experience this, ask a shopkeeper to mail you envelope.
Shopkeeper are usually more cooperative than airline or security personnel.
- Remove any laptop computer, cell phone, or
similar electronic device from your carry-on luggage before passing through
security. They want to individually inspect these items. Remove these items
before approaching security to save time for you and those behind you. More
and more security check-points are providing plastic baskets to hold these
items while them move through the scanner.
- Travel with shoes that come on and off easily,
in case security requests a shoe inspection.
- If you use curbside luggage check-in and
you're selected for a random security check you may be asked to take your
luggage to the ticket counter for inspection. You may also be subject to a
thorough luggage search at security screening and again before boarding your
flight. Some of these checks are random and some result from changes to your
itinerary, paying cash or check for a ticket, and one-way flights. Just
remember that these security checks are for your safety and they take time.
By arriving at the airport 2 hours before flight time, the worst thing that
can happen is that you'll have extra time with your favorite magazine. The
rule of thumb is that you never know how long it will take you to clear
security and board your flight and extra time is a good insurance policy.
- Do not pack film in your checked luggage
unless you place it in one of the specially approved pouches available most
camera stores. Checked luggage is being scanned with x-ray equipment which
can fog your vacation pictures.
- Limit your carry-on to two pieces. Airline
personnel are very strict about this. Due to the enforcement of this rule,
you'll enjoy faster boarding and more room inside the plane.
- If you're carrying wine or alcohol in your
carryon luggage, make sure it is easily accessible, it has an original
label, and that the corks or caps are secured by the original seals.
Security personnel will ask you to remove any container filled with liquid
to check the container's label and seal. If the seal is broken or the label
is questionable, security will confiscate the container.
- Do not carry ammunition in your checked or
carryon luggage. While this may sound obvious, it's amazing how many shot
gun shells and bullets are confiscated by airport security everyday. What's
even more amazing, is how upset passengers get when they're informed that
they must leave these items behind.
- Remove and place in your carry-on luggage all
large jewelry, watches, belt buckles, pens, glasses, coins, credit cards and
other items that might trigger a metal detector. This will speed you through
security and keep those behind you in a much better mood. Enjoy your trip
and know that these heightened safety measures are for your protection and
peace-of-mind.
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Premiere Cruise Planners 800 695 5253