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Click here to read hundreds unedited and unbiased cruise reviews by travelers and professional cruise critics. Cruise Guide 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
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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 )
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.
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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.
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Recommendation 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. |
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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 2008 ( 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
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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, 2008. 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:
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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.
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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.
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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. |
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Travel Insurance |
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Don't think you need the travel insurance. Think
again.
What if you became ill and have to be taken off the ship and evacuated by
helicopter. Can you afford to pay for it? Probably, but only if you
purchased travel insurance. Domestic air medical evacuation services average
$10,000 to $20,000, while international transports can exceed $75,000.
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If you travel more than once a year, consider buying an annual policy; both MedjetAssist and Travel Guard offer this kind of policy, which can be purchased for as little as $185 a year. |
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
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.
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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:
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Will the policy cover loss due to default or bankruptcy of travel suppliers?
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Does the policy cover travel delay due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances?
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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?
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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?
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Will the policy cover cancellation due to outbreak of strike, riot or civil disturbance at your destination or places en-route?
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Does the policy cover loss or injuries due to war, acts of terrorism, hijacking and natural disasters?
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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?
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Will the policy cover breakage or damage to fragile articles or documents in your luggage?
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Will the policy cover loss of travel documents, and/or travel tickets and additional travel & accommodation expenses incurred to replace them?
It's
important to understand that your own medical insurance coverage doesn't
work on aboard a ship as it does within the United States. In most casses
your at-home insurance coverage doesn't extend to foreign travel at all.
Medicare coverage does not work outside the country.
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Pre-Cruise Check List Other topics: Medical - Read The Fine Print -Remember To Bring With You - Baggage |
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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 |
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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Remember to Bring With You |
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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.
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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.) |
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Ships Electrical Current Capability |
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Most cruise ships: North American standard, 110 volts AC
- Some also have use European standard 220 volts AC
- Some require an outlet adapter if only equipped for European standard.
Be sure to check with us about the electrical service on the cruise ship you are sailing on.
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What to Wear | |||||||||||
| Day Time for both men and women:
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: 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. In Alaska summer temperatures could be in the 70s. Spring and fall as low as the mid 40 to 60 range.
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:
What I should I prepare for, if I lose my
luggage? |
| 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 Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda Mexico, Hawaii, Panama Canal
Europe/Scandinavia |
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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