WILL I GET BORED? FEEL CONFINED?
Cruise ships are like floating resorts with unlimited activities on board from exercise and spa facilities to bridge, movies and casinos. Or, you can choose to relax, enjoy the sun.
WHAT CAN I DO IN PORT?
A full range of optional tours is offered in each port. All ships have a Cruise Director on board, plus information on the TV in your cabin about the sightseeing available in the port. You may choose to be more adventuresome and explore on your own.
DO CRUISE LINES WELCOME FAMILIES WITH KIDS?
Family cruising is more popular than ever. Most cruise lines provide supervised activities for all age groups from tots to teens. Youth counselors keep them busy and entertained in state of the art facilities designed for play and education. Special Family cabins are available as well as reduced rates for children.
WHAT ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT?
Spectacular shows that rival Broadway and Las Vegas in the main showrooms to nightclubs and lounges, the entertainment is always first rate! The latest movies, the Captain's Cocktail Party and other special events make the entertainment exciting and it is all for FREE!
IS IT EASY TO MEET PEOPLE?
The atmosphere on board ship is always cordial and relaxed so it is easy to meet people and socialize. All kinds of people take cruises from singles, couples and families. Based on your tastes and lifestyle, our cruise consultants will recommend the right cruise for you.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
Whether you are on the ship or ashore, dress is very casual. In the evening, many ships are opting for more casual evenings and dress The Captain's Gala evening may require a cocktail dress or dark suit. Tuxedo dress is generally optional. Preflight documents provide more detailed information on nightly dress.
IS CRUISING FOR SINGLE PEOPLE?
Cruising is ideal for single people traveling alone and affords an opportunity to meet people. Ships may have get-togethers for singles and arrange your dinner table accordingly. Single cabins and single cruise fares are available, but generally higher than double rate cabins. Many ships offer same sex single/share accommodations.
HOW IS THE DINING EXPERIENCE?
Cruise lines take great pride in the food and ambiance that they offer their guests. You will always find a varied menu selection in the Main Dining rooms as well as on the breakfast and lunch buffets. There is no limit to how much you can order and never an additional charge. If you prefer a spa low calorie fare or have special dietary needs, this is available. The trend on the newest ships is to offer alternate dining, which means that guests have the option of dining in specialty restaurants that feature Italian or French cuisine. (Surcharges may apply) Many ships offer 24-hour room service.
ARE THERE NONSMOKING AREAS?
Smoking and nonsmoking areas and cabins are available. Most cruise lines are now have nonsmoking dining rooms. Some newer ships are totally nonsmoking.
WHAT ABOUT TIPPING?
Tipping is a matter of discretion, but generally $2.50 to $3.00 per person per day for your room steward and dining room waiter and half that amount for the busboy is appropriate. You may choose to tip more for exceptional service. A few cruise lines include tipping in the price.
ADDITIONAL TIPS
If for some reason you are disappointed with some aspect of your cruise, inform the front office immediately. The majority of the time the problem can be solved with the greatest of ease. Do not wait until you come home to complain about a problem or experience you had on the ship. The front office staff on the ship is trained to handle all sorts of problems and complaints. You will be surprised to find out the level of empowerment that the front office has on a ship.
Sea Bands are a popular way of staying away from seasickness. They are elasticized wrist bands that apply slight pressure on the acupressure point near each wrist that helps control nausea.
When going on a cruise you should always bring your own travel alarm clock. This is really important if you have an inside state room.
