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Cruise Guide
Introduction Welcome to the ultimate source of information
about your cruise. We've added some new sections to the Ultimate Cruise
Guide, so even if you've been here before, you should take a good look
around. Do you have a question about cruising? Or a subject you want to
learn more about that we haven't covered in the guide? Is there a resource
you can't find? Send an E-mail to our Cruise Guide Editor, at
editor@cruisedirectonline.com so we
can make the guide even more helpful to you.
This guide is intended for reference purposes
only. It is generic in nature, the content is subject to change without
notice and is not intended to replace or supersede the information provided
you by the cruise line. You should consult the cruise line's most current
brochure and your cruise documents for information specific to your
particular cruise.
To start off,
How can my Cruise
Travel Advisor Help
There are many breathtaking destinations and
activities to peruse through. Your Cruise Travel Advisor can help you
quickly narrow down the choices that are best for you, depending on the type
of traveler you are.
Your Cruise Travel Advisor can point out some of the most popular onshore
destinations, activities you won't want to miss, items to be sure to pack,
and maybe even out-of-this-world foods to sample on board.
Your Cruise Travel Advisor can explain the fine print. Are there
restrictions? Time limitations? What's the cancellation policy? We've made
all this information available to you online, of course, but your Cruise
Travel Advisor can help make sure it all makes sense.
What else will my Cruise Travel Advisor do?
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Read The Brochure
Take the time to read
your cruise brochure thoroughly. Each brochure varies, but in general, you
will find information concerning: Itineraries & ports of call,
ship's deck plans & services, pre & post cruise tours, air sea programs,
payment, deposit and cancellation policies, legal disclaimers, proof of
citizenship, visa requirements, customs & immigration regulations, medical
services, etc and much more.
You will find in this
guide a sampling of questions you have most often asked. In addition to
those mentioned here, read "Cruising Q&A"
for an expanded list of the most frequently asked questions.
What's included in my cruise purchase
The price of your cruise ticket includes sea
transportation, all of your meals and in-between snacks on-board; your
stateroom, on board activities and entertainment; plus, an exciting voyage
to some of the most provocative and culturally-enriching places in the
world.
What’s not Included
Generally speaking, depending upon cruise line, air transportation, shore
excursions, medical services, items of a personal nature – such as bar
beverages (except
coffee, tea, or milk with meals or when expressly specified)
gift shop purchases, photography, beauty salon/barber shop and spa services,
gambling and service/porterage
gratuities are not included in the cruise fare. Also not included are
charges for passports,
visas, inoculations, laundry, travel insurance, postage, telegrams,
telephone calls and surcharges, any items of a personal nature,
Guests are urged to read
the cruise line’s brochure and cruise line confirmation from the cruise line
for complete details on what is or what is not included.
Smoking, Drinking and
Gaming
For the comfort of guests,
most cruise ships have designated smoking and non-smoking areas available
throughout the cruise ship.
Guests are urged to read the cruise line’s brochure for complete details.
Staterooms may not be
designated at all or designated as smoking, non-smoking or smoking optional.
Passengers must be 21 years
of age or older to purchase or drink alcohol or gamble aboard all ships at
all times.
Dietary Requests
Low-sodium meals, kosher meals, and certain other diet-restricted meals may
be available. Dietary requests
should be made at the time of
booking
Celebrating an Occasion
If you are celebrating an anniversary or birthday while onboard on the ship,
we can let the maitre d' know.
The cruise lines have a
special cake presentation at dinner one evening. Celebration requests should
be
made at the time of booking.
Rules
To Remember
( Just a few, but certainly
not all. Be sure to read the back of your cruise brochure for more )
Ports of Call: The cruise line
reserves the right to cancel or substitute any scheduled port of call at
any time and for any reason whatsoever without prior notice, and shall not
be liable for any loss to guests by reason of such cancellation or
substitution.
Age Requirements: Children under the
age of 21 cannot be in a cabin by themselves. Cruise lines require guests
under the age of 21 years to be accompanied by a parent, relative or
guardian 25 years of age or older in the same stateroom. On most cruise
lines Infants must be at least 4 months old to be eligible to travel.
Check with your cruise line to make sure you understand their age
requirements. Failure to comply could result in denied boarding.
Restricted Fares: If you are purchasing a restricted fare of any
kind, as an example, a Senior Citizen Rate (1 guest in each stateroom must
be 55 or older) or a Resident Rate (1 guest in each stateroom must be a
resident of the state), you may be asked to produce proof of age or
residency at the pier. If you do not qualify for these fare restrictions
or cannot prove it, the cruise line may be collecting the additional fare
at the pier. Additional restrictions may apply.
Note: Women who have entered their
24th week of pregnancy as of their embarkation date and infants under 12
weeks old may be refused passage on most cruise ships due to safety
concerns. Check with the cruise line regarding these restrictions on your
cruise ship. You could be denied boarding, if so, you will not get any
refund.
Airfare Limitation: Due to limited availability, during
peak travel dates, if you have purchased airfare through the cruiseline,
it may be necessary for them to assign charter flights, non-prime air
schedules, or schedules which require an overnight stay, either prior to
or after your cruise.
Airport/Pier
Check In : Many airports, as a result of heightened security
procedures, may have passenger processing times of between two (2) to
three (3) hours or longer. Expect delays and longer lines at the airport
and the pier. The Embark and Debark process at the pier may take longer
due to additional security measures. So, if you are flying to your cruise
ship port of embarkation we recommend you plan to arrive at the pier
at least 4 hours prior to sailing and that you do not plan your return
flight home until at least 1:00PM on the afternoon of your return
to the cruise port.
Surcharges:
Due to the nature of travel in general, fuel and security surcharges may
be imposed. Your travel agent will do everything possible to get
your cruise at the lowest price, but cannot be responsible
for cruise line or governmental imposed surcharges. These additional
charges, even on paid reservations, are your responsibility.
Guests Under 21
Guests under 21 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or
chaperone who is at least 25 years old; one adult chaperone is required for
every five people under 21. Parents, guardians and chaperones are
responsible for overseeing the on board conduct of minors. Alcoholic
beverages will not be served to guests under age 21.
Minors under age 18 traveling to any foreign country must be accompanied by
both parents or have a notarized letter of consent signed by the parent(s)
not traveling. If the other parent is deceased or the child has only one
legal parent, a notarized statement must be obtained as proof. Your travel
agent can provide additional information about this requirement.
What If I Have
A Problem
What if there is a change in the ship's itinerary or a problem onboard. Does
that entitle me to some compensation? You may find that answer under "Terms
& Conditions" on the back of the cruise line's brochure.
 |
If you encounter any
problems on board such as problems with your accommodations, cruise ship
staff, your bill etc. contact the Guest Services (aka Reception or
Pursers) desk immediately. Try to resolve any problem on board rather
than waiting until you get home to write a complaint letter. It may take
weeks for your complaint letter to be investigated and processed. |
Did You Know
Below is an abbreviated and simplified explanation of some
things you may not be aware of.
Did you know that your cruise fare entitles you only to
the specified number of days aboard ship, your accommodations as chosen and
paid for, and all listed inclusions such as meals and entertainment. Your
cruise fare does not guarantee specific ports of call, or the order in which
the ship calls on them.
If a ship changes its itinerary (either before you embark
or during the voyage), the cruise line may not be obligated to compensate
you. Cruise lines are not in absolute control of the ports, and they may
have to cancel a port call or change an itinerary for a number of reasons,
ranging from medical, weather or mechanical problems.
Cruise departures can be canceled for many reasons, like
shipyard delays, mechanical problems or a full-ship charter. If that
happens, the cruise line is only responsible for refunding your cruise fare.
If you've booked airfare or pre/post cruise arrangements separately, the
cruise line is not liable for those costs.
If you're denied
boarding due to incomplete, insufficient or total lack of proof of your
citizenship/proof of your identity, you are on your own and you will not get
a refund from the cruise line: It is the passenger's responsibility to
verify immigration requirements and secure proper proof of citizenship.
The cruise lines require that you report missing or
damaged luggage directly to the line upon boarding (or before you leave the
pier, if disembarking). In most instances, the cruise lines limit their
liability from $100 to $500.
Even if you booked air through the cruise line, the lines
disclaim any responsibility for airline problems or delays. Nor are they
responsible for problems or delays encountered with ground transfers or
shore excursions.
Remember this
above all else: Flip to the back of the brochure and read all of the terms,
conditions
and fine print.
All guests are responsible for understanding and agreeing to the Terms and
Conditions
of the cruise
line.
 |
Recommendation
We recommend
arriving at the city of your port of embarkation one day prior to the
day your ship sets sail. You may encounter during the winter months or
at times of bad weather, or flight problems,
an en-route delay on
sailing day. Be sure to ask your Cruise Travel Advisor about custom air
arrangements, and pre-cruise hotel packages. After all, you don't want
to be waving goodbye on the pier as the ship sails out of port without
you!
If you are
flying on the same day as your cruise sets sail, plan to be at the pier
for check-in at least least 3 hours prior to the time the ship is
scheduled to depart. Also, due to heighten security at the pier and at
the airport, when scheduling your return flight home allow for several
hours between the time you get off the ship and the time you need to
board your flight home. We recommend no earlier than 1:30PM for a
flight home. |
 |
Identification
|
Proof Of Citizenship/Proof Of Identity - Travel insurance |
What form of identification should I bring

- Don't leave home without proper
identification. You will need a Passport**
or a certified copy of your birth certificate if traveling to any foreign
port during your cruise. Passports Only will
be the requirement as of January 2007 ( See
IMPORTANT Note below for details ). In addition to other required documents, a
photo ID such as a driver’s license or other picture ID card issued by a
federal, state, or local government agency, must be presented by everyone
over 16 yrs old at check-in at the pier and if flying to the port of
embarkation, as most airlines require them at check-in. In some cases you
may also need a visa. Non-US citizens residing in the United States must
present a valid Alien Registration (green) card prior to boarding the
vessel. IMPORTANT: Read a more detailed
description about the requirements at this web page:
Proof of Citizenship and Proof of Identity.
If you have any doubts about proper identification, check with government
agencies, embassies or consulates to determine the proper requirements.
All travel documents such as passports, visa, proof of citizenship, etc.,
that are required for embarkation and re-entry into the United States are
the responsibility of the passenger. Passport expiration date must not
occur within six (6) months of the termination date of your cruise.
If you are divorced and traveling outside the country with your children,
you should check your divorce documents for restrictions. You should have
a letter from your ex-spouse, notarized if possible, giving permission to
leave with them. This would
also apply to others’ children who are guests of yours.
-
**Passports are required for all travel
abroad and all guests including newborn infants, are required to obtain
passports. Guests are
urged to read the information provided at this web page:
Proof of Citizenship and Proof of Identity.
and in the cruise lines brochure to see if a passport and/or
visa is required and to check with the US passport office to determine the
proper requirements. Consult the National Passport Information Center
(1-900-225-5674 or 1-888-498-3648) for guidance.
Also check
http://travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.html for Foreign Entry
Requirements.
- Note: Passport fees effective August 19,
2005. The fees for first-time adult passport issuance are $85.00 and
fees for minors under 16 are $70.00. Adult renewal passport fees are
$55.00. The cost of expedited service is $60.00. For up-to-date passport
information, please visit the Bureau of Consular Affairs' website at
www.travel.state.gov
-
IMPORTANT
Passport Rules Change
For decades, and currently, U.S.-based cruise ships have operated under
rules that permit U.S. citizens to travel to ports in Canada, Mexico, and
the Caribbean without need of a passport. New rules proposed by the U.S.
departments of State and Homeland Security, however, will soon do away
with that loophole, meaning even passengers taking weekend jaunts to the
Bahamas will need a passport -- no ifs, ands, or buts.
Called the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, the rule
changes are part of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act
of 2004.
All U.S. citizens will be required to carry passports
as of January 23, 2007. Passports are required for all air, sea, and land border crossings.
The bottom line? Our advice to guests is that if they're traveling on a
cruise in January 2007 or beyond, they should plan to get a passport."
Time to go passport
shopping. Don't dilly-dally either, since U.S. passport services are
likely to be deluged when and if the new rules take effect. Passport
applications generally take six to eight weeks to process, though
expedited service is also available (see below).
If you don't currently have a passport, the State Department website (http://travel.state.gov/passport)
provides information on obtaining one. Current fees are $97 for citizens
age 16 and older, $82 under age 16.
To get a passport for the first time (or if you have an expired
passport issued more than fifteen years ago, or issued while you were
under 16), you need to go in person to one of 6,000 passport acceptance
facilities located throughout the country, bringing two photographs of
yourself, proof of U.S. citizenship (an expired passport, certified birth
certificate, naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship, or
consular report of birth abroad), and a valid form of photo ID, such as a
driver's license. Acceptance facilities include many federal, state, and
probate courts, post offices, some public libraries and a number of county
and municipal offices. Find the one nearest you using the State
Department's search page, at
http://iafdb.travel.state.gov.
Citizens who need a new passport for travel within two weeks may visit
one of thirteen regional passport agencies, listed at
http://travel.state.gov/passport/about/agencies/agencies_913.html.
Appointments are required, and you'll need to bring a completed passport
application (downloadable at
http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/forms_847.html),
appropriate ID, proof of citizenship (see list above), and two regulation
passport-size photos. Expedited service costs $60 plus any mailing fees,
above and beyond the regular application fees.
If you don't live near a passport center, you can apply for expedited
service at a local passport acceptance facility, located in post offices,
courthouses, and so on, and then follow up through overnight mail.
You can renew an expired passport through the mail as long as you were
over age 16 when it was issued and still have the same name (or can
provide legal documentation of a name change) and your old passport is
undamaged and was issued within the past fifteen years. Forms are
downloadable at
http://travel.state.gov/passport/forms/forms_847.html. Fees for
renewal are currently $67. Expedited renewal services are available for an
additional $60 plus mailing costs.
More
Resources:
 |
Returning guests can be more
quickly cleared by US Immigration and Customs inspectors by having a US
passport rather than just showing an original or certified copy of their
birth certificate. |
I have a minor
with me, without his/her parent. What should I know before I go
For Minors (under the age of
18) traveling without parents, ( say, going with a friend and his/her
parents) other documents may be required by the cruise line and/or the
countries being visited. Minors under age 18 traveling to any foreign country must be accompanied by
both parents or have a notarized letter of consent signed by the parent(s)
not traveling. If the other parent is deceased or the child has only one
legal parent, a notarized statement must be obtained as proof.
If only one parent is going
on the trip, the other parent must sign a release form. If neither
parent is going, then BOTH parents must sign.
Your travel agent can provide additional information about this requirement.
For example, Mexico requires
a notarized affidavit signed by ANY parent not accompanying the minor.
 |
Important Note: If you
arrive without proper proof of citizenship, a visa if required, or other
required documentation, you may be denied boarding and unable to cruise.
Further, you will not get a refund if you fail to bring the required
documentation. |
Without exception, it is the
responsibility of the individual traveler to obtain visas and other
documents required to enter a foreign country. Simply put: If you find
yourself being turned away for a lack of documentation, your options for
recourse are nil. Always contact the embassy or consulate of any country
you'll be visiting and request a copy of its entry requirements.
 |
Make copies of the
photo page of your passport, and leave one copy at home or at the office
where
someone can find it
if necessary. Take one copy with you on international trips, and carry
it with you
but not together
with your passport. In the event your passport is lost or stolen, take
the copy and
other identification
to an American embassy. |
|
 |
Travel Insurance |
|
We highly recommend that everyone be insured. You can
purchase trip insurance from the cruise line or through other insurance
providers. Each Cruise Line's Vacation Protection Plan is different but in
general covers trip cancellation, trip interruption and delay, baggage
protection, medical expense coverage and emergency evacuation. There are
monetary limits and restrictions that apply to such coverage's. The price
varies based upon length of cruise.
Travel Insurance offered by the cruise lines
do not cover you if the cruise line goes out of business. Only certain 3rd
party insurance companies cover that possibility
Some policies do not cover preexisting
medical conditions, while others require that the insurance be purchased
within seven to 14 days of making the initial cruise deposit.
Many policies
purchased from the cruise lines exclude coverage for preexisting medical
conditions.
Find out more about travel insurance online with
Travel Guard International or visit
Access America, another company that offers trip insurance.
 |
To be sure you are getting
the kind of coverages you want, read all the fine print and understand
fully the benefits and limitations of the policy on offer, before you
buy. |
In addition to what most policies provide--trip interruption, travel delays,
baggage loss, emergency medical expenses and medical evacuation, here are
some suggested questions to ask when calling Travel Guard or Access America
or any insurance provider:
-
Will the policy cover loss due to default or
bankruptcy of travel suppliers?
-
Does the policy cover travel delay due to
weather or other unforeseen circumstances?
-
Will the policy cover cancellation charges and
expenses due to injury or sickness of your traveling companion though
he/she is not your family member?
-
Will the policy cover cancellation charges and
expenses due to injury or sickness of a member of your immediate family
though he/she is not traveling with you?
-
Will the policy cover cancellation due to
outbreak of strike, riot or civil disturbance at your destination or
places en-route?
-
Does the policy cover loss or injuries due to
war, acts of terrorism, hijacking and natural disasters?
-
Will the policy cover cancellation due to any
natural disaster happen to the insured person's residence before or during
your journey which requires your presence on the premises?
-
Will the policy cover breakage or damage to
fragile articles or documents in your luggage?
-
Will the policy cover loss of travel
documents, and/or travel tickets and additional travel & accommodation
expenses incurred to replace them?
Here are some things you should keep in mind
to prepare for your cruise. Not all of these may apply to you, so feel
free to use what you can and just ignore the rest.
 |
Get Your Paperwork
In Order |
- Read about the identification required for
your cruise. (see the notes above)
- If you need to replace your birth
certificate, apply for a passport, or renew one now is the time to
do it. Don't wait until the last minute.
- Apply for any visas that may be required.
Ask your Cruise Travel Advisor if one is needed for where you are going.
 |
Start Planning Early |
- Start a packing list. (see the suggestions
later on in this guide)
- If you have animals to board, make a
reservation now.
- Arrange for someone to look after your
house or apartment while you are gone.
- Leaving the kids home? Arrange for
childcare.
- If you purchased airfare with your cruise,
call your Cruise Travel Advisor for the details of your airline schedule.
- Get out your luggage and make sure the
locks and zippers work properly.
- Make two photocopies of your passport or
ID and credit cards. Leave one copy with a friend and carry the other
separately from the originals.
- Get cash and/or traveler’s checks at the
bank. If you use traveler’s checks, keep a separate record of the serial
numbers. Get a supply of one and five dollar bills for tipping.
- For some destinations, covert your
currency ahead of time.
Customs Regulations
To avoid having to pay customs tax on previously owned property upon
re-entry, U.S. residents should have a receipt or should register with
customs prior to departure for their foreign-made cameras, expensive
jewelry, video cameras, radios and other electronic equipment. Customs will
issue a certificate of ownership so you can avoid duty and taxes upon your
return home.
For all the details, contact the Department of the Treasury, U.S. Customs
Service, Washington, D.C.
 |
Read All The Fine Print |
Your cruise tickets and documents will be mailed to you a few weeks
before your sailing date. Be sure to read all the fine print and if you have
any questions call or e- mail your Cruise Travel Advisor right away. Don't
wait to the last minute to find out something is missing in your document
package or your documents are in error.
The document package may include:
- Airline and cruise tickets
- Embarkation card
- Shore tour/excursion booklet
- On-board charge account form
- Ship's guide to services
- Ship's telephone and fax contact numbers
- Luggage tags and bon voyage gift selection form
- Passenger Contract
What kind of weather should I expect during my cruise
Click here for a list of
high and low temperatures for worldwide destinations to help you plan your
vacation.
How can someone
reach me on the ship in case of an emergency
To provide some peace of mind
while you are away from home. give friends or relatives the ship's contact
information on how to telephone you. First check the information
provided with your cruise documents on how to contact the ship. Here is a
list of numbers for your reference. They are subject to change, so always
check your cruise documents or contact the cruise line to verify the latest
emergency call numbers.
|
If the ship’s telephone number is not included in your documents, in
some areas, you may be reached at
800-SEA-CALL.
|
Carnival Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Disney Cruise Line
Holland America Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
Royal Caribbean |
877 225 7447
877 266 1020
888 322 8732
900 225 5425
888 627 4477
900 225 5744
888 724 7447 |
 |
Medical |
- Be sure to carry a supply of all
prescription drugs and medications sufficient to last until you get home.
You may not be able to get your particular medication on board or in
port.
- Be sure to place all medications in a
carry-on bag. Checked baggage could be delayed or lost.
- Be sure to carry a written list of all
medications - and their dosages - on your cruise. Written prescriptions if
possible.
- If you have a medical condition, bring
medical records from your doctor. If you have a heart condition, bring
your most recent EKG.
- Always carry your all your physician's
phone numbers.
- If you are at risk for medical
emergencies, inform your doctor about your cruise plans.
- The cruise ship may not have all equipment
and/or medications necessary to meet your needs. Make sure all special
needs (mobility aids, oxygen, ADA equipment, etc.) are told to the ship
prior to your cruise.
Don't leave home without travel insurance. Coverage
should include pre-existing conditions, medical evacuation and
emergency treatment worldwide.
Inoculations and Health Advisories
Passengers are advised to check with their doctor regarding inoculation
requirements in the ports they will be visiting. Some ports strictly enforce
these requirements, and certain documents may be needed to go ashore. In
addition to contacting your personal physician for the appropriate
inoculations, for your protection we strongly recommend that you contact the
Centers for Disease Control prior to traveling to learn of any health
advisories for the region you will be visiting.
What about motion
sickness
If you are prone to motion sickness, you should take along some Dramamine or
consult your doctor about other options. If you do have a medical problem
onboard, there is a doctor and a nurse aboard. There are various over
the counter medications (Dramamine & Bonine) and, of course, the
prescriptions medications scopolamine (the patch behind the ear) and
Antivert. In addition, Consumer Reports indicates the acupressure wrist
bands are effective. Available brands include Sea-Band and Travel-Eze.
Consult a doctor for the medication that's best for you.
 |
Home Work |
- Arrange to have your mail held at the post
office.
- Stop newspaper delivery.
- Arrange for lawn, houseplant care or snow
removal.
- Check out your photographic equipment. Buy
film and check the batteries.
- Leave your itinerary, the ship’s telephone
number (plus the name of your ship and your stateroom number), and a house
key with a relative or friend.
 |
Just Before Sailing |
- Re-confirm your
airline flights and times.
- Write a note with your name, address, and
itinerary inside each suitcase.
- Fill out your luggage tags and read about
when and where you should attaching them.
- Reorganize your wallet/purse. Leave home
in a safe place any check cashing cards, department store, gas cards,
debit cards etc.
|
 |
Remember to
Bring With You |
 |
-
Camera and film ( film is too expensive
on-board or ashore, so bring a good supply )
-
Binoculars, especially on Alaska and other
adventure cruises
-
Travel guidebooks about your destination
and ports-of-call
-
Extra pair of prescription glasses or
contact lenses
-
Prescription medications
-
Proper sneakers or other walking/sport
shoes for deck sports or using the fitness center
-
Personal electrical appliances, such as
shavers, hairdryers, irons, steamers, curling irons etc. that are
compatible with the ship's electrical current.
|
 |
Baggage Requirements |
Although there is no baggage limitation
aboard most ships, for your own comfort, it is recommended that you limit
the number of pieces you bring. Note: If you are flying to your port of
embarkation, the airlines will usually permitted only two pieces of checked
luggage (not including oversized bags and sports equipment) and a carry-on
bag. Check with your airline for specific restrictions and limitations.
 |
IMPORTANT:
Do not pack your passport, medications, cruise documents or airline
tickets. Keep them close at hand in your carry-on bag, purse or jacket
pocket. We also strongly suggest that you carry important items such as
perishables, medicine, liquor, cash, credit or debit cards, jewelry,
gold, silver, or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments,
records or other valuable or business documents, laptop computers,
cellular telephones, cameras, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs,
scooters, or other video or electronic equipment, binoculars, film,
videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes or cds on your person or
in your carry-on bag. (Remember that checked baggage might not be
accessible at all times.) |
|
 |
Ships Electrical
Current Capability |
Be sure to check with us about the electrical
service on the cruise ship you are sailing on.
 |
What
to Wear |
| |
| |
Day Time
for both men and women:
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Walking shorts, jeans, blouses or polo
shirts
- Lightweight slacks or skirts
- Sneakers, walking shoes
- Comfortable, walking shoes
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen lotion.
Just in case: rain gear for that
afternoon shower or a light sweater for cooler days in winter.
Rain Gear: There is always a possibility
of rain. Since we will be outdoors quite a bit and since we will be
going on our shore excursions rain or shine you should be prepared.
Plastic ponchos are one option that is highly portable, inexpensive,
readily available, and effective.
Local customs sometime prohibit or frown
upon short-shorts, halter tops or provocative clothing. Check with the
Cruise Director on board if you are unsure of what to wear ashore.
Clothing - Shore Excursions:
Our recommendation for shore excursion wear is, with the exception of
socks, wear nylon outerwear. When you do get wet your clothes will dry
very quickly. This will also reduce or eliminate the need to have a
change of clothes with you. Also if you are wearing a nylon t-shirt it
could be worn during all water activities as part of your sunscreen
strategy.
As far as socks are concerned cotton is
the worst possible material in just about any situation. When cotton
gets damp it loses its cushioning ability, it is extremely slow to dry,
it holds moisture against your foot (softening your skin), it stretches,
becomes abrasive, and can cause blisters. The best materials for
walking/athletic socks are acrylic, polyester (Coolmax), nylon, spandex,
bulk orlon, olefin, etc. These materials, retain their cushioning
abilities, don't stretch, don't become abrasive, and wick moisture away
from your feet. Yes cotton is a bit less expensive initially, but the
synthetics are better in every way and last much longer, so in the long
run they can end up being less expensive.
One of the most important items of clothing to bring is a pair of reef
walkers, also known as aqua socks, water socks, wetshoes, etc. Basically
they have elastic uppers that fit snugly around your ankles and a rubber
type sole. They are made to be used in the water and they keep sand and
other materials out and protect the soles of your feet. When we do the
river tubing, for example, it is possible to get a cut or abrasion on
unprotected feet. Highly recommended.
In Alaska summer temperatures could be in
the 70s. Spring and fall as low as the mid 40 to 60 range.
- Shirts and blouses
- Slacks or pants
- Sweaters, and a light to medium jacket
for cooler days
- Lightweight windbreaker for misty
weather.
- Comfortable, walking shoes
- Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen lotion.
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When
visiting museums, churches, government buildings or cathedrals,
dress conservatively. Perhaps a dress that covers the knees or long
pants. Cut-off tops and shorts, not allowed. |
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Insect Repellent: It's
summer in the tropics and, since we are going to be spending a
considerable amount of time in natural settings, everyone should
have insect repellent with them.
Products containing at least 30% deet are regarded as most
effective.
Consider the following products:
Off Deep Woods For Sportsmen I 98% deet pump
3M Ultrathon34% deet cream
Off Deep Woods For Sportsmen IV30% deetaerosol
Cutter Unscented Outdoorsman30% deetaerosol
Ben's 30 Wilderness Formula30% deet pump |
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Sunscreen: Whether you
are a sun worshipper or not you should definitely have sunscreen
with you. The sun in the tropics is very aggressive and, if you've
ever had a really bad sunburn, you know it can literally ruin the
whole trip. Also consider bringing a hat with you to protect your
scalp. The best sunscreen products contain a chemical, recently
approved by the FDA, called Mexoryl. Sunscreens based on Mexoryl
have been available in Canada, Europe and other parts of the world
since 1993. There are two forms available: Mexoryl SX (water based)
and Mexoryl XL (oil based). Both are very effective, but of the two
Mexoryl XL lasts longer in hot and wet environments. Some products
contain both types. Brands containing Mexoryl, that are available on
the internet, include: Ombrelle, Capital Soleil, L'Oreal, Anthelios,
and La Roche-Posay. It is unlikely that products containing Mexoryl
are available in local stores yet. |
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Night Time
There are three distinct types of "evenings" on board most ships -
casual, smart casual and formal. Suggested guidelines for these
evenings are as follows.
Casual Nights;
- Pant-suit, dress slacks or skirts,
and blouses for women
- Sport shirt and slacks for men.
- No Jeans, Cut-Offs etc.
Informal Smart Casual Nights;
- Dress or pant-suit for women
- Jacket, shirt and (optional
) tie for men.
Formal Nights;
- Cocktail dresses or long gowns
- Dinner jackets and dark suits
- Tuxedo (Optional ) Not necessary
on most cruises these days.
If you want to wear one, but do not
have a tuxedo, one can easily be rented before you sail or through
the cruise line. |
- Three and four-night cruises consist
of one formal night and two or three casual nights.
- Seven-night
cruises include two formal nights, one smart casual night and four
casual nights.
- Ten, 11 and 12-night cruises consist
of three formal nights, three smart casual; all other nights are
casual.
- 14 & 15 night cruises have three
formal nights, four semi-formal nights and the remainder are casual.
Again, these are guidelines and your
evenings attire is left up to your discretion. In addition, many cruise
ships now provide alternative casual dining on each of our formal
evenings. Many cruises include formal evenings include the Captain's
Welcome Cocktail Party and Dinner, the Captain's Farewell Dinner, and a
third or fourth "formal" night for those cruises sailing more than seven
nights. Be sure to read the daily newsletter, delivered to your
stateroom each evening for the appropriate attire the following evening.
Theme nights afford a great opportunity
to get dressed up for the occasion. Check with us for specific scheduled
events on your cruise. |
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Bring an overnight bag for your last night at sea. Staff will collect
your bags the night before disembarkation, and you will need an
overnight bag to carry your night clothes and toiletries.
Don't forget your camera, and binoculars.
TSA approved luggage locks:
You should consider the purchase of enough TSA approved locks to
completely lock your checked on luggage. These come in the form of key
or combinations locks. The nice thing about the combination type is that
you can set them all to the same combination and don't have to carry
extra keys. TSA approved locks can be opened by the TSA, thereby
eliminating their need to cut them off. Some may think they don't need
locks because they don't intend to pack any valuables in their checked
on luggage, but remember: It's just as important to make sure nothing is
put INTO your luggage as it is that nothing is taken out! You can use
the price comparison links and search for TSA locks. They are probably
also available locally in luggage stores. Master Lock TSA approved lock
(Model: 4680DBLK). They are metal cased, 3 digit combination locks, with
a lifetime warranty. The warranty includes replacement if the TSA cuts
the lock off - if you return the cut lock to Master Lock. |
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See the notes above under
"What to Wear" for daytime and evening clothing to pack for just about
any cruise. The notes below highlight destinations with more
suggestions. Alaska, Canada /
New England
Days onboard are casual. Pack several sweaters, jeans, slacks, a
jacket and a windbreaker or raincoat. Don't forget your camera,
binoculars and a swimsuit!, for the occasional warm day. In port, wear
comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda
Days onboard tend to be casual. Pack sports clothes and resort wear.
Bring more than one swimsuit.
In port, wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
Mexico, Hawaii, Panama Canal
Days onboard are also casual. Pack sports clothes, resort wear and
swimsuits.
In port, wear comfortable walking
shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
Europe/Scandinavia
Casual clothes onboard; comfortable walking shoes in port. If you are
cruising to Scandinavia: Bring sweaters as the nights are cool, jackets
and long pants. Also pack a raincoat, and hiking shoes
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What about blow-dryers, electric razors, etc.
Bring your own blow-dryer and electric razor. On most ships you don't need
an adaptor.
Are there
laundry services aboard
Many of the new cruise ships have guest self-service launderettes.
There is
additional charges for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services.
Generally speaking;
- Use the cruise line luggage tags, which
should be filled out and affixed to each piece before you leave home.
- Insure all luggage and valuables.
- Cruise Direct Online and the cruise line
cannot be responsible for their loss or damage. Baggage insurance, as well
as medical and trip-cancellation insurance, is available. Call us for
information about these important coverages.
- Check to see that your tickets, boarding
card and other documents are in order, and pack them in a bag that you
carry with you.
What about Religious Services
Most cruise ships provide Catholic, Jewish, and Protestant services on the
following religious holidays: Passover, Easter, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur,
Chanukah and Christmas.
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If you are providing your
own transportation to the ship, make sure you arrive at the embarkation
area at least two to three hours prior to sailing time. With increased
security measures in place be prepared for long lines both at the
airport and at the pier.
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