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.
24-hour, toll-free, travel assistance hotline
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Are there any senior discounts?
Generally, our prices are lower than the senior discounts offered by the cruise
lines. However, we recommend contacting us after you’ve booked your cruise in
order to determine if any further discounts might apply to your booking. Please
have your past passenger numbers at hand before you call.
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Are there any past passenger discounts?
Generally, our prices are lower than the past passenger discounts offered by the
cruise lines. However, we recommend contacting us after you’ve booked your
cruise in order to determine if any further discounts/amenities might apply to
your booking.
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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.
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Am I charged extra for an online
reservation?
No. We do not charge any processing/ticketing fees.
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How much do I owe and when is final
payment due?
A deposit will be charged to your credit card upon booking. Final payment is due
45-90 days prior to sailing. See below for specific cruise line policies.
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
Final Payment
60 days prior to sailing: 3-day cruises
70 days prior to sailing: 4-, 5-, 6-, 7- and 8-day cruises
75 days prior to sailing: 7-day Alaska cruises, Cruise Tours, and 10-day or
longer cruises
Celebrity
Deposits
$250 per person: 7-day cruises
$450 per person: 8-day cruises and European cruises
Final Payment
60 days prior to sailing: all cruises
Crystal
Deposits
10% of final price
Final Payment
75 days prior to sailing: all cruises
Disney
Deposits
$200 per person: all cruises
Final Payment
60 days prior to sailing: 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.
Final Payment
75 days prior to sailing: all cruises
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
Final Payment
45 days prior to sailing: 3- and 4-day cruises
60 days prior to sailing: 5-day or longer cruises
90 days prior to sailing: Europe, Repositioning, and South America cruises
Princess
Deposits
$250-$350 per person: 7-day or less cruises
$450-$600 per person: 8-day or longer cruises
Final Payment
60-75 days prior to sailing: all cruises
90 days prior to sailing: Holiday cruises & World 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
Final Payment
45 days prior to sailing: 3-, 4- and 5-day cruises
60 days prior to sailing: 7-day and longer cruises
90 days prior to sailing: Holiday cruises
Windstar
Deposits
$500 per person: 5- to 8-day cruises
$1000 per person: 9-day or longer cruises
Final Payment
75 days prior to sailing: all cruises
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How will my credit card be charged?
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.
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Do you offer payment plans?
At time of booking, customers can either make a deposit or full payment.
Deposits start at $100 and final payments are due 45-90 days prior to sailing
depending on the cruise line and length of cruise. See
Final Payment section for
further details
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How will I know that my reservation is
confirmed?
Once you have successfully completed the reservation process, you will
immediately receive an e-mail confirmation from us.
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Pre-registration/Ticketing
When will I get my tickets?
What documentation do I need?
Documents for non-US citizens?
Are there forms I need to complete before I sail?
When will I get my tickets?
Generally, you will receive your tickets within 2-4 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 issued for
all Norwegian Cruise Line sailings.
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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 2008, travelers will be required to present a valid
passport when travelling to and from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central (including
Mexico) and South America, and Canada. Travelers lacking the proper
documentation will be denied re-entry to the United States. To read more about
this new requirement, please click
here.
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What do I need if I’m not American or
Canadian?
Citizens of countries other than the United States and Canada (aliens) are
required to present both a valid passport and an unexpired 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. Aliens and resident aliens should contact
the appropriate consulate, U.S embassy, or U.S. immigration office to inquire
about necessary travel documentation.
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Are there forms I need to complete before
I sail?
Most cruiselines now require that you fill out pre-registration/immigration
forms prior to your sailing date. Please note that it is VERY IMPORTANT that you
go online as soon as possible to complete your forms. If there are fields that
do not apply to you please be sure to enter N/A.
Carnival
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.
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Flights, Transfers & Departure Times
How do I find my cruise's itinerary?
How do I get to my departure port?
What’s the latest flight I can take?
What if my flight gets delayed?
What if my flight gets cancelled?
Can I customize my air?
Should I book air through the line?
How much are airport transfers?
How do I arrange transfers?
What time do I board the ship?
When does the ship depart?
How do I find my cruise's itinerary?
To find your itinerary, please see our
Itinerary Finder.
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How do I get to the departure port?
For addresses, driving directions, and parking information, please see our
Driving
Directions page.
If you are still unsure of how to locate your departure port, contact the
cruise line directly. Please be advised that it is the customer's responsbility
to verify his or her own driving route.
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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. If you’re late, the ship will sail
without you.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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How do I arrange transfers?
You can reserve transfers by contacting us once you’ve booked your cruise. You
must make reservations at least 14 days prior to your sailing date.
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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.
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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.
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Dining
What are First & Second seatings?
Can I get special-need meals?
What is proper dining attire?
Is cruise ship dining as good as I've been told?
What if I don't like my tablemates?
Are there non-smoking areas?
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.
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Can I get special-need meals?
Special-need meals (e.g., kosher, diabetic) are available upon request, but must
be arranged in advance.
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What is proper dining attire?
Most cruise ships have one or two formal nights per cruise, when men are
encouraged to wear tuxedoes or nice suits, and women cocktail dresses or evening
gowns. Other nights are casual or semi-formal, when men can get by with
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.
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Is cruise ship dining as good as I've been
told?
Everything you've heard about cruise ship dining is true. You'll find a varied
selection of entrees (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!
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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.
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Are there non-smoking areas?
Today, virtually all ships have smoking and non-smoking tables or non-smoking
sections in lounges. Cruise ship dining rooms are now totally smoke-free, and
the Carnival Paradise is a completely smoke-free cruise ship, reflecting
passenger requests. If you want your dining table in a non-smoking area, or
prefer a smoke-free ship, just tell us! Onboard, in "open-seating situations,"
you can advise your waiter or the maitre d'.
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Cabins & Services
What are outside & inside cabins?
What’s a Cabin Guarantee (GTY, GUAR)?
What are IS, OV, V, W, X, Y and Z cabins?
What amenities will my cabin have?
Are ships & cabins accessible for passengers with disabilities?
Are there medical services onboard?
Are there laundry services aboard?
Are there meeting rooms onboard?
How does someone call/e-mail me?
What are outside and inside cabins?
Outside (oceanview) cabins have a porthole/window, while inside (interior)
cabins do not.
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What is a Cabin Guarantee (GTY or GUAR)?
A cabin guarantee means that you have reserved a specific cabin category, but
you have not yet been assigned a specific cabin. For instance, if you reserved a
guaranteed outside cabin on the upper deck, that cabin could be anywhere on the
upper deck, and it’s possible that you could receive an upgrade. You will be
assigned a specific cabin during embarkation; occasionally you will be notified
of your cabin number in advance.
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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 oceanview guarantee (category 6A and up).
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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
- Norwegian: all ships except the S.S. Norway
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
Due to safety reasons, irons are not provided in cabins, but you are allowed
to bring one aboard.
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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 while the
older ones are less so. 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.
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Are there medical services onboard?
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.
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Are there laundry services aboard?
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.
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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, ask us to contact the cruise
line's group sales department to coordinate schedules and arrange for any
catering needs. Your ship may also be able to offer audio-visual equipment.
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How does someone call/e-mail me onboard?
All major cruise ship now offer computer terminals with Internet access, which
can be rented by the minute or hour. In addition, 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.
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Life Onboard
Are there different classes of service?
Will I get bored? Feel confined?
What's there to do at night?
Is there a charge for entertainment?
Do I have to participate in the activities?
Is it easy to meet people?
Will there be people like me?
What should I pack?
Where is smoking permitted/prohibited?
Are there different classes of service?
Today's 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.
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Will I get bored? Feel confined?
Hardly. Being at sea gives you a feeling of freedom few places can offer.
There's plenty of room. And it'll probably take you two or three days just to
discover what's onboard. Plus, you get the added adventure of exploring new and
exciting ports of call.
Cruise ships are like floating resorts with all the choices fine resorts have
to offer. You can be by yourself and lie back in a lounge chair, breathe in the
sea air, soak up the sun, read good books, or watch the ever-changing view. Or,
you can join in exercise classes, dance classes, sports contests and other
organized deck activities. Perhaps you can practice your tennis stroke or golf
swing, or shoot some baskets. You can go for a swim, stretch out in the sauna or
work out in the gym. You can see a feature movie, attend a lecture by renowned
experts, play backgammon or bridge. And that's just when you're onboard!
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What's there to do at night?
At night, life aboard a cruise ship really turns on. There's dancing; live
entertainment in nightclubs, discos and lounges; feature films; and parties with
all your new friends. Most ships even have casinos. There are also many special
events like the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night, the Masquerade
Parade, the Late Night Buffet (just for one last bite to tide you over 'til
breakfast). And the night can go on as long as you want. Even until the
spectacle of sunrise at sea.
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Is there a charge for entertainment?
Never. On a cruise vacation, the entertainment is on the house. 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.
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Do I have to participate in the
activities?
On a cruise, you do what you want to. You can do everything. Or lie back and do
absolutely nothing. It's your vacation.
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Is it easy to meet people?
A cruise ship is a great place to make new friends, because everyone's so
friendly. The atmosphere is cordial, relaxed. And you'll have all kinds of
things in common to talk about. At dinner. At 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.
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Will there be people like me?
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 us for advice on the best ship for you,
based on your tastes and lifestyle.
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What should I pack?
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. On a formal dining night or at the
Captain’s Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more dressy,
such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a tuxedo or gown. (If you
don't own a tuxedo--most people don't--you can usually rent one onboard.)
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Where is smoking prohibited/permitted?
Except for the Carnival Paradise, which strictly prohibits smoking onboard,
smoking is prohibited only in dining rooms/restaurants, hallways, and most show
lounges.
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General Questions
What do I do about money?
How much should I tip?
How much is an unlimited-soda card?
Can a pregnant woman travel? Is motion
discomfort a problem?
Is cruising affordable and a good vacation value?
How long are cruises?
Where can I go?
Are all ships and cruises fairly similar?
Can I book on short notice?
Can I extend my cruise vacation?
Do cruise lines accept group bookings?
Can we celebrate a "special" day?
Do cruise lines welcome families with kids?
Can singles have fun on a cruise?
Is cruising right for honeymooners?
What do I do about money?
Most cruise lines will allow you to establish an onboard credit account which
permits you to charge onboard purchases to your stateroom. In most destinations,
American currency may be accepted or easily exchanged. It is best to bring cash
in small denominations since it is easier to get change for these bills. It is
also advisable to carry a limited amount of cash since it is irreplaceable if
lost. Traveler's checks are recommended and you may also want to carry a credit
card. Conversion rates fluctuate on a daily basis. For the latest rates, please
see our Currency Converter.
How much should I tip?
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, you pay tips in cash at the end of the cruise. Norwegian
and Princess automatically add tips to your onboard account, but the amount can
be adjusted upon request.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Is cruising affordable and a good vacation
value?
Yes! There are cruise vacations to suit every budget, from the cost-conscious to
the most luxurious. Even more important, a cruise offers the best travel value
for your money. Your fare includes all meals, your cabin, onboard daytime
activities, nighttime parties and entertainment. So for once, you'll know what
your vacation will end up costing you before you go. (Your only extra expenses
will be drinks, optional shore excursions, and personal services such as massage
or hairstyling.) You'll be amazed at the value.
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How long are cruises?
As long or as short as you want. Itineraries can range from as little as three
days to as long as three months!
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Where can I go?
Where do you want to go? Cruises visit practically any destination accessible by
water.
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Are all ships and cruises fairly similar?
Far from it. Cruise ships can range from under 200 feet to over 1,000 feet. You
can sail with anywhere from fewer than 100 fellow passengers to over 2,600.
Experience atmospheres ranging from casual to formal, classically simple to
ultra-deluxe. You can even choose between traditional propeller-driven craft,
sail-assisted cruise ships, or even a paddle-wheel river boat.
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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. Then, just sit back and anticipate all
the fun you're going to have!
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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.
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Do cruise lines accept group bookings?
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. For more details, please see our page.
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Can we celebrate a "special" day?
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.
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Do cruise lines welcome families with
kids?
More and more cruise vacations are booked by families with children. 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. Best of all, children generally travel at a substantially
reduced rate. For more information, please see our
Family Cruises
page.
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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.
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Is cruising right for honeymooners?
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. For more information,
please see our
Honeymoon Cruises page.
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Shore Excursions
What's there to do in port?
How physically challenging are the Shore Excursions?
What do Shore Excursions include?
How do I book shore excursions?
When and where do Shore Excursions depart?
Is it possible to "Miss the Boat?"
What type of transportation is used for Shore Excursions?
Will transportation be available from the ship to city centers?
How should I tip our Guide/Driver?
How can I find out more about the ports we'll be visiting?
Will I miss meals when I go ashore?
What should I wear?
Will I have time to shop?
What's there to do in port?
So much you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your own. Or take a
guided tour. You can search ancient ruins or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a
raft over river rapids, a bicycle ride down the side of a 10,000 foot volcano,
or ride a horse across miles of hills and beaches. Climb a waterfall or pyramid.
See the birthplace of civilization or listen to steel drum bands. Follow the
footsteps of history or the wake of a waterskiing boat. If there's still time,
play golf or tennis. Eat native foods. Learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim at
some of the world's best beaches. Catch a record marlin. Sail, snorkel or go
scuba diving. Go to a nightclub or glittering casino. Take a cable car to the
top of a mountain. Explore dark catacombs. In short, a cruise is the easiest way
to see new places and do all the things you dream of. Cruising is the perfect
way to sample a number of destinations that you may want to return to for
another vacation...and you never have to pack and unpack - the destinations come
to you!
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How physically challenging are the shore excursions?
It really depends on the tour. For example in some of the European cities you'll
be visiting are ancient. Their quaint, narrow, cobblestone streets have been in
existence long before motorized transportation. To preserve their beauty, some
cities and old towns are pedestrian only. Most tours require some degree of
walking; however, some excursions require extensive walking. Likewise, grand
entryways and sprawling gardens of certain castles and cathedrals make walking
and stair-climbing a necessity.
Most cruise lines indicate which tours are more physical than others in their
brochures and at the Shore Excursion Desk. Whatever your fitness level, we
highly recommend comfortable, low-heeled walking shoes.
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What do shore excursions Include?
Shore excursions include transportation according to the itinerary, and meals,
refreshments, guides, and entrance fees as indicated in the tour description
book. Fares for shore excursions are subject to change without notice.
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How do I book shore excursions?
When you receive your tickets, your package should 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. You can
also reserve selected excursions on our
Shore
Excursions page.
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When and where do shore excursions depart?
Prepaid tickets will indicate the departure location and time. If you are
reserving an excursion in advance, you will be notified as to the times and
locations along with other important details.
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Is it possible to "miss the boat?"
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. The scheduling of all shore excursions
conform with this requirement. However, if you leave a tour en route, 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.
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What type of transportation is used for Shore
Excursions?
Standards of transport vary considerably from country to country; however,
excursions utilize the best quality transportation possible in each port.
Air-conditioned vehicles are not always available. Guest wishing to travel
together with friends should leave the ship together, as this will help the tour
staff allocate space in the same vehicle.
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Will transportation be available to the city centers?
There are many ports in Europe that are not located in the city center. For the
convenience of their guests, some cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, shuttle bus
service is arranged in those ports that are located a 1/2 mile or more away from
the closest city center and do not have adequate local transportation available.
(Believe us, finding local transportation is not a problem in the Caribbean.
They will find you.) Schedules and days of operation are usually posted in the
ship's bulletin.
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How should I tip our Guide/Driver?
Extending a gratuity to your guide or driver is strictly optional; however, in
some countries, these personnel may anticipate that if you were pleased with
their services, you will reward them in a monetary way. A commonly accepted
guideline is $1 per person for a half day and $2 per person for a full day.
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How can I find out more about the ports we'll be
visiting?
On most cruise ships, a qualified lecturer will hold informative talks on each
port of call you visit. If you still have questions, the Port Lecturer will be
glad to answer them. You should also do a little research before you go. Your
local library should have all kinds of books pertaining to your destination.
Frommer's and Fodor's also have wonderfully informative books identifying local
points of interest, culture, and history.
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Will I miss meals when I go ashore?
Most tour departure times complement the ship's meal service 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.
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What should I wear?
Other countries may have more conservative ideas about dress than you're
accustomed. Attention is drawn to this matter so as not to offend. Cruise lines
suggest when visiting places of worship (cathedrals), you dress conservatively,
avoiding shorts or sundresses. Attend the port lectures for guidance.
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.
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Will I have time to shop?
Whenever possible, shopping time is allocated within the framework of the
excursions. However, tours are not designed primarily for shopping.
