Tips for First Time Cruisers
What is included in the price of a cruise?
It depends on the cruise ship you choose, but most include: Accommodations, travel to your port destinations, food (including room service), shows, games. The spa, alcohol, soft drinks, specialty restaurants and casinos are extra.
What documents do I need to take?
A Passport.
How do I pay for items on the ship.
Your credit card will be documented when you check-in to the ship and you will receive a card that will act as your room key and credit card for anything you need on the ship.
What about tipping aboard the ship?
The only people you have to tip are the room service staff. It is customary to tip the service people on the ship, but you will be asked when you check-in if you would like to put this on your credit card.
Are there activities onboard for children?
Yes, wonderful children's programs. In fact, you'll never see them. Some ships are not so encouraging to have young people, discuss this with your travel agent to know the ones that will give your family the best experience.
Do I have to participate in the activities or can I do my own thing?
You can "play or lay". You choose how much you want to do. You will get a program of activities at the start of each day and you decide what appeals to you, then go forth and enjoy!
Will I get bored?
There are at least 3 choices of activities every hour plus spas, shopping, golf etc If you get bored it is YOUR fault. I normally need a vacation after I leave a cruise ship.
Do I need to pack a tuxedo or a formal gown?
This depends on you. Do you want to be formal, then choose a ship that fits this category. Do you want to be informal, there are grand experiences to accommodate informal travel. This is something you should discuss with your travel agent.
What should I wear?
That depends on where you are going.
What about motion sickness?
If you are inclined, get the patch from your doctor that fits snugly behind your ear to help. Many people have patches. But ships are built with stabilizers and the ride of this 15 story ship is very smooth indeed.
What about my luggage? Where does it go when?
You check it in at the curb, it is delivered to your cabin by about 2 pm.
How can I be reached while I am on board?
Today, there are all kinds of communication on board ships. Email, text, phone are all available.
Are there medical services on the ship?
Excellent medical services BUT they are expensive so don't go for anything that is not serious.
Can I call home from the ship?
Yes, the Pursers office can help you with this.
Can I get or send emails from the ship?
Certainly, they have entire computer areas just so you can keep in touch.
How do I learn about shore excursions?
The website should have all that information. Once you have your booking number you can see and book shore excursions. Once on the ship the Pursers office can book shore excursions for you.
Are shore excursions necessary?
Absolutely not. However, if you are going to venture a long way from the ship, it is best to go with the ships excursions because they guarantee that you get back to the ship in time. Non-contractors may miss the ship.
When do I get my cruise documents?
A month before you go.
What about airfare?
You can get air through the cruiseline but you won't know the actual flight until 45 days from the departure date. OR your travel agent can secure air for you BUT you have to be sure to get to the dock by noon. Airline delays can ruin your vacation. Sometimes it is better to go a day early and leisurely get to the ship.
What is a cabin "Guarantee"?
The cruise lines "guarantees" you the category you requested. Usually inside or outside on a specific level. You CANNOT get lower than this level or cabin style, but you can get higher category upgrade at no additional cost.
How does a single save on a cruise?
Single Supplements are typically 200% of the cabin price. Some cruise ships have single friendly programs, charging 110% to 150% of the cabin price. Check with your travel agent for details.
I want to know more about your "special" cruises?
Check the "Specials" page on this website.
