Cruise Holidays FAQS

All the most common questions about cruise holidays in one place. 

Do cruise lines have a babysitting service
Many of the large cruise lines do have a babysitting service onboard for a nominal cost and are run by trained child carers.
Can I bring my infant onboard
The majority of cruise line will not allow infants onboard under 6 months old. Infants older than this are very welcome, however we always advise that you bring your own milk formula if required. The ship can provide baby food but it may not be what youa re used too so again bring your own is always best
I am travelling with a large family – can we have connecting cabins?
If you are travelling with more than 4 people in your party we would always advise to book your cruise as early as possible. Ships do have connecting cabins and some of the larger ships have super family cabins but these are always limited in number and book up early.
What if I have been assigned “guaranteed” cabin
“Guaranteed” cabins are usually the most budget friendly as you will not be able to choose your cabin but will be assigned one usually within 2 weeks of departure. Once your cabin has been assigned, we will inform you of the details
Am I able to choose the cabin that I want
Yes you can do this at the time of booking. Our cruise experts will recommend a cabin based on your requirements, but you can also access the cruise ship deck plans on the cruise websites of you want to have a better look at cabins onboard.
What if my flight is delayed or cancelled and I miss the cruise departure
This is very rare, however not impossible and hence we would always advise you to have “cruise connect” cover on your travel insurance policy. Dependent on your policy provider, this would normally ensure that your costs are covered to transport you to the next port of call.
What is the legal age for drinking alcohol onboard a ship?
The age is dependent on the rules of the cruise line and will vary between 18-21 years of age. It can also be dependent on where the ship is sailing too. If you have anyone under 21 in your party we will advise you of the specific details at time of booking
What if I need special accommodations (e.g., disability services)?
Cruise lines are required to offer accessible accommodations and services for passengers with disabilities. However you are obliged to make us aware of any special requirement at time of booking so we an ensure the correct cabin type is booked for you and the relevant facilities are available. If this is not done at time of booking, they cannot be guaranteed later on.
Can I change my cruise reservation after booking?
Yes your booking can be changed dependent on the length of time it is before your cruise departure date, and changes will be subject to a change fee. Any changes requested within 30 days of departure are usually not possible but always contact us so we can discuss the best options for you
Do I need to take the cruise lines own excursions when in port?
The cruise lines will always have a great variety of well organized excursions for you so they are good choice but that choice is yours. You can get off in port and do your own thing. Just be vigilant and aware of any precautionary information provided by the cruise line. In addition if you are exploring the port by yourself, ensure you arrive back at the ship at least 1 hour before the ship is due to depart – they don’t wait for anyone!
Can I use my phone on the ship?
You can use your phone for onboard calls, but be aware of roaming charges. Many ships offer satellite-based Wi-Fi to stay in touch, but it can be expensive.
Is there a dress code on the ship?
Casual wear is typically fine during the day, but certain dining areas or events may have a dress code, like “smart casual” or “formal night” for dinners. We can provide this information to you when you book your cruise.
How do I stay healthy onboard?
Most ships have fitness centres and wellness facilities. Many of the larger ships also have running tracks round the top deck of the ship. Always remember to keep your hands sanitized at all times
What happens if there’s bad weather eg hurricanes in the caribbean
Safety of its passengers is always the cruise lines’ first priority. They will know well in advance of any potential weather issues and will change the course/itinerary of the ship if required, but at the same time doing their best not to reduce your enjoyment of your cruise.
How do I stay safe during a cruise?
Follow all safety drills and instructions from the crew. Always know the location of your life jacket and muster station. Ships also have security staff on board for your safety. Your muster stations and all the safety. information will be provided to you the day you board the cruise. It is also very important to ensure your hands are always sanitised and most ships have sanitiser stand throughout the ship. We all need to do our part in reducing any chance of infections.
How do I pay for things on board?
Cruise ships use a cashless system where your onboard account is linked to your credit or debit card, or to a cruise-specific card. You use this card for purchases like drinks, excursions, and shopping.
Are there age restrictions or accommodations for children?
Most cruises are family-friendly, and most ships have kids’ clubs, daycare, and family-oriented excursions. There are often age-specific programs, including activities and services for babies, toddlers, kids, and teens. But please let us know your requirements when you contact us and we will match the right ship and sailing to your needs
What documents do I need to board a cruise?
You will always require a valid passport which has at least 6 months validity on it from the date you return. For some countries you may require a visa, but we will advise you of this when you book your cruise. If you are sailing out of the USA you will require an ESTA – please refer to our “Important information page” on our website
What happens at embarkation of the cruise?
For ocean cruising, most of the time these will leave form large cruise ports, who will have facilities similar to a small airport to check in. Once you check in, your suitcases will be taken from you, and will be personally delivered to your cabin within a few hours of you embarking the cruise. (You will be given bag tags with your cruise documents prior to your cruise to attach to your suitcases).
What if I fall seriously ill onboard
Ships are well equipped with medical care including medically trained staff onboard who can professionally assess the seriousness of your condition and how best to treat it. Make sure you always have valid travel insurance, as medical costs can be very expensive
What should I do if I get seasick?
Ships today are very stable, but if you’re prone to seasickness, there are remedies like seasickness bands, patches, or medication, or consult your doctor before departure.
Can I bring my own alcohol?
In most circumstances, a very limited amount of alcohol can be brought onboard – usually the equivalent of a bottle of wine, but each cruise line has different rules, so please check with us
Is there Wi-Fi on the ship?
Nowadays most ships provide wifi onboard at an additional cost, and some include it in the overall price of your cruise. If paying separately for it, it can be expensive, so we always recommend to ensure you connect to wifi when you are on land and download anything at that time
What if I have any allergies or dietary requirements?
It is important that you make us aware the time of booking of any special requirements you have and we will ensure these are passed onto the cruise line. They will cater for most requirements, but will often need to know in advance to ensure the ship is stocked accordingly
What’s the food like on a cruise?
All cruise lines will provide a vast array of International cuisine to suit all tastes and cultures
How do I book excursions during my cruise?
Nowadays once you have booked you can book excursions through the cruise line app or via their website. They are usually available from 6 months to 1 month pre departure. Book early to ensure you get the excursions you want
What’s included in the price of a cruise?
Typically, the base price includes accommodations, most meals, and entertainment onboard. Some activities, excursions, speciality dining, and drinks may cost extra. Some of the more “luxury” cruise lines will include extras as standard. Our cruise experts will advise you on exactly what is included when providing you with a price
What should I pack for a cruise?
Pack casual clothes for daytime activities, swimwear for pool time, and more formal attire for dinners or themed nights. Don’t forget sunscreen, medications, comfortable shoes, and a waterproof bag for excursions.
What if I don’t want to pay for tips upfront?
That’s fine – the tips will be added to your onboard account. However if you wish to pay a specific steward onboard with cash you can do that and request at Guest services that the tips be removed from your bill
Why do we need to pay gratuities when we book a cruise?
In most circumstances, cruise lines do not deal with cash onboard – everything is paid by your acct card you are given when you check in. This makes life easier onboard as you don’t feel obliged to tip everytime you order a drink or have a meal or get your room cleaned. So most cruise lines set a daily fee for tips that you can pre pay before your cruise.

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