• Identification requirements vary with every trip. Be sure to know exactly what type of I.D. you will be required to present before you go.
   
• Notify the cruise ship of any special dietary restrictions or requests at least 60 days prior to departure.
   
• Leave copies of your passport, airline tickets, traveler's cheques and credit cards with a family member or a friend back on the mainland.
   
• Some countries require certain immunizations to enter. Discuss you travel plans with a doctor. It may be necessary to bring proof of immunizations with you.
   
• If you are prone to motion sickness, consult your doctor prior to departure. Motion sickness medications (such as Dramamine and patches) often do well to curb nausea.
   
• Setting up a web-based e-mail account before you depart (such as Hotmail, Yahoo or AOL) makes it easy to e-mail friends and family while you're abroad.
   
• Always call to confirm your flight 24 hours prior to departure.
   
• If you have any ongoing medical conditions, ask your doctor to write up a brief medical history for you to travel with.
   
• When you receive your cruise documents in the mail, take the time to go over them in detail and verify that all the information is correct.
   
• Double-check your flight information and airline documents for accuracy.
   
• Remember, if you book "cruise only", you are responsible for arriving at the port in time for check-in, security and departure.
   
• If you plan to bring a hair dryer or an electric razor, inquire with your cruise line as to what the cabin voltage will be. You may need an adaptor.
   
• Leave the ship's contact information with a friend or family member back home. This information can usually be found on the cruise line's web site or by contacting them directly by phone.
   
• If you book an air/sea package and you miss the ship because of late or cancelled flight, rest assured. The cruise line will take care of getting you to the next port.
   
• Check-in and security procedures can be involved. Be sure to arrive at the embarkation area at least two hours prior to sailing. If you board early, there are plenty of activities that begin before the ship leaves port.
   
• Most lines send an onboard credit card application form with the tickets. To save time, complete the form beforehand and bring it with you when you check-in.
   
• Some lines help you save time by allowing you to complete your immigration and embarkation forms online. Check with your cruise line.
   
• You'll be given a receipt when you hand over your passport upon boarding. If not, ask for one.
   
• Don't purchase duty-free alcohol to drink onboard. It is confiscated until the last day of the cruise.
   
• Reading up on your ports of call (in guidebooks and on the Internet) can greatly enrich your journey. In addition, most ships have a library with information on your destinations.
   
• Want to learn to scuba dive? Consider doing the class work at a local dive center before you leave and save the open water portion for your trip. This will minimize your time sitting at a desk while on vacation.

Planning ahead
What are the benefits of taking a cruise vacation?
There are many benefits to cruising. Some of our favorites include all-inclusive meals, unlimited entertainment options, and traveling from one destination to the next from the comfort of your ship (plus, only having to unpack once). Rather than spending your travel time in a car or on a train, you can be watching Broadway-style shows, eating fine cuisine, swimming in the pool, and sleeping in your private stateroom.
 
Can I add a passenger to my stateroom at a later date?
You may be able to add another passenger, depending on the stateroom’s passenger capacity and the point at which you decide to add the passenger; however, there is no guarantee that the person can be added, or that the price would stay the same. If you would like to add another passenger, please call your Travel Agent.
 
Can I change a passenger in my stateroom?
Many cruise lines will not let you change a passenger’s name after you complete your reservation. If they do allow changes, a large fee will likely be tacked on to the change.
 
Should I upgrade to an oceanview or balcony stateroom?
Different passengers have different stateroom preferences. Some passengers book an inside stateroom in order to save money, especially if they're active types who spend little time in their staterooms. However, if you plan to spend a lot of time in your stateroom, we suggest booking one with an ocean view. If the idea of having breakfast on your private balcony every morning appeals to you, you may want to splurge a bit and upgrade to a balcony stateroom. Many new ships now have a large quantity of balcony staterooms, making them more affordable than ever before.
 
I made a last-minute reservation. How will I get my travel documents?
If you made a last-minute reservation, you’ll likely have to make arrangements to pick up your travel documents. Generally, you’ll pick them up right at the pier on the day of embarkation. If you booked cruise line airfare and the cruise line uses paper tickets, your tickets will likely be sent to you via overnight delivery or an e-ticket will be sent to you via e-mail.
 
How early should I arrive at the pier?
Ship boarding usually begins four to five hours before the ship is scheduled to depart, and all passengers must be onboard 90-120 minutes prior to departure. Check with your cruise line about their policy.
 
Where can I find the details about the ship?
Most of the details you'll want to know can be found at Cruise Reviews Online.
 
What to bring
Do I need a passport?
If you’re a U.S. citizen, just about every destination now requires that you have a passport, while a few simply require a government-issued photo ID and an original or certified copy of a birth certificate with raised seal. You should check proof of citizenship requirements for the countries you'll be visiting by contacting the cruise line. Do keep in mind that all non-U.S. citizens boarding a ship in the U.S. will need a valid passport. Failure to have the proper documentation will lead to denied boarding and you will not get a refund.
 
Do I need a travel visa? or Green card?
Most countries don’t require that U.S. citizens carry travel visas; however, you will need one if you are traveling to St. Petersburg, Russia; or Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (along with a handful of other ports of call). Be sure to check your travel documents carefully to see whether you’ll need a travel visa.  Also, keep in mind that non-U.S. citizens living in the U.S. may need a travel visa or a green card to gain reentry into the U.S.
 
What travel documents and identification do I need?
For most cruises, you simply need a passport, though some cruise itineraries only require a birth certificate with raised seal and government-issued photo ID. A few cruises also require travel visas, and non-U.S. citizens boarding a ship in the U.S. will need a valid passport. Check your travel documents carefully to ensure that you are traveling with the proper documents.  Be sure to check all countries you'll be visiting. For example, if you're taking a Mexico cruise that stops in Jamaica, be sure to check Jamaica's requirements, not just Mexico's.
 
What documents might I need when traveling with children?
Some countries have special requirements for children under 18 who are not traveling with both birth parents. Documentation requirements vary depending on the country you are visiting. Country-specific information is available by reviewing the Consular Information Sheets on the U.S. Department of State Web site. It is also available from the consulate of the country to which you are traveling. Please note that the requirements can change at any time, so be sure to confirm them close to your departure date.

The following information is provided as a general guideline only. Exact documentation requirements will depend on your specific situation and the country to which you are traveling. Check with your cruise line first.

These documents may be requested by the cruise line upon boarding, and without them you could be denied boarding. They may also be requested by immigration officers at ports of call, so be sure to bring the documentation with you when visiting each port. According to many accounts, the cruise lines and, depending on the port, the immigration officials, are inconsistent in the enforcement of these requirements, so you may never be asked to produce these documents. Bring them anyway to guarantee you are allowed to board and avoid any delays in your ports of call.

Generally, a notarized “permission to travel” letter from the absent parent(s) must be provided. We strongly recommend bringing such a letter even if it is not an official requirement. The letter should be signed by the non-traveling parent(s) and should state that he/she gives the child permission to travel. It should also include: the name of the child and the names of all people traveling with the child; information about the trip including the dates of travel, country (or countries) being visited, and the name of the cruise line and ship; address and phone number of the non-traveling parent(s); permission to approve treatment should the child become Ill or require hospital or emergency health care and the document must have a notary’s signature and seal.

In some circumstances, legal documents will be required to clarify custody rights and/or the parental relationship. It’s especially important that documentation be supplied by travelers with different last names, same-sex couples, adoptive, or divorced parents. Travelers falling under any of these categories should provide custody and other supporting documents. Widowed parents should provide a death certificate. In all cases, you must bring your own identification and the child’s identification.
 
I currently don't have a passport or birth certificate. How can I get them?
If you are a U.S. citizen and you have a birth certificate with raised seal and simply need a passport, you can purchase one through your local post office, or online. You should expect to receive your passport within six -eight weeks (two weeks if you put a rush on your order).

If you are a U.S. citizen and you need a copy of your birth certificate, contact the city hall located in your town of birth.

If you need a passport and you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with the appropriate government agencies within your country of citizenship.

Do I need cash onboard the ship?
We suggest that you bring some cash. Some cruise lines require that you use cash for tipping and casino gambling. It's also handy to have in port. Most cruise ships do have ATMs onboard; however, the ATM service fee may be quite high.
 
Is there a weight limit for how much luggage I bring?
Not on the cruise ship. When in doubt, contact the cruise line. Airlines do have weight limits.
 
What is a medical release form, and how do I know if I have to submit one?
To ensure proper treatment in case of an emergency, cruise lines require that all guests with special medical needs submit this information to them prior to travel. Passengers who carry syringes for medical use must also carry a letter from their physicians indicating such.
 

What types of clothing should I pack?
Keep both your destination’s climate and the cruise ship’s dress code in mind when deciding what clothes to pack. If you’re traveling to Alaska, be sure to bring protective rain coverings for Alaska’s and Canada’s rainy days. If you’re traveling to the Caribbean, be sure to bring plenty of cool clothing and sunscreen for warm days. In addition, if your ship has formal nights, men should bring a dark suit or tuxedo, and women should bring a pantsuit or cocktail dress. If you don’t own these items, no worries: Most ships have casual dining venues to cater to those who aren’t interested in dressing up, and some ships also have formal wear rental shops.
 
Getting to the ship
I’m booking airfare on my own. When should I schedule my flights to arrive and depart?
You should schedule your flight to arrive a minimum of four hours before your ship is scheduled to set sail, which should give you enough time to make it to the pier and check in to your cruise.

We suggest you schedule your return flight to depart a minimum of six hours after you're scheduled to arrive in port. That should give you enough time to disembark the ship, clear customs, and make it to airport check-in. The more time you give yourself, the better.
 
How do I get from the airport to the ship?
If you booked cruise line airfare, ( and paid for transfers ) you will be met at baggage claim by a cruise line representative who will provide transportation from the airport to the pier.

If you booked your own airfare, you will be required to get yourself from the airport to the pier. When you receive your cruise packet, your ticket will provide the name of the pier from which your cruise departs. If you are not familiar with the area from which you are departing, we suggest that you use a map to get the best directions to the port. Most taxi drivers will also be familiar enough with the area to easily transport you to the pier.
 
Can I park at the pier?
Most ports do have parking right at the pier. However, like airport parking, it can be a bit pricy.
 
What happens if my flight is delayed?
If your flight is delayed and you booked the cruise line’s airfare, the cruise line will be made aware of the delay (but you should still call the cruise line to inform a representative of the delay). If you miss the ship, oftentimes the cruise line will assist in helping you get to the ship’s next port of call.

If your flight is delayed and you did not book cruise line airfare, please call the cruise line immediately and let them know of the delay.
 

• Most ships have exercise facilities and classes. If you plan on working out, don't forget gym clothes and shoes.
   
• Some cruises travel through multiple climates. Make sure to pack accordingly.
   
• Life aboard a cruise ship is generally laid-back and casual. Pack for comfort.
   
• Footwear should include walking/running shoes and, if you're headed someplace warm, sandals.
   
• Even when cruising warm weather destinations, consider packing a sweater/sweatshirt, water repellant jacket and hat.
   
• Though most dining areas on larger ships have a dress code, not all do. Options outside of the main dining room, such as a pizzeria or buffet, will generally allow t-shirts, jeans and shorts.
   
• When the dress code for a dining area is described as "casual", plan to dress in "golf" attire. T-shirts, jeans and shorts are not allowed.
   
• When the dress code for a dining area is described as "informal", plan to dress "business casual". Women generally wear dresses or pantsuits, while men usually wear lightweight jackets.
   
• When the dress code for a dining area is described as "formal", women should be prepared to wear cocktail dresses or gowns, while men should consider wearing business suits or tuxedos (though not required).
   
• Most ships that have formal events offer tuxedo rental onboard, eliminating the hassle of packing one.
   
• Almost every ship has laundry service (including dry cleaning), but the tab can add up. Consider bringing a small amount of detergent for washing clothes in your own cabin.
   
• Most ships have powerful air conditioning. A sweater or sweatshirt may come in handy.
   

Packing: Necessities
 

• It's easy to forget sunscreen and sunglasses with all the excitement of an upcoming cruise. Be sure to pack them if you're traveling to a sunny destination (including Alaska).
   
• Bring a camera. Don't forget extra film, memory cards, batteries, charger, etc.
   
• Never pack your passport, visa, license, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets in checked luggage. Keep such items with you.
   
• If you take prescription medication, be sure to pack enough for the entire voyage. Ships tend to only stock general medications and ports may what you need.
   
• Pack a written list of your medications, including the name of the drug, dosage and times taken, in case they are lost.
   
• Items to pack in your carry-on bag include: perishables, liquor, cash, credit/debit cards, jewelry, business documents, travel and health insurance information, laptops, computer disks, cell phones, cameras, binoculars, film, videotapes, CD's and cassette tapes.
   
• Bring credit cards and travelers cheques instead of large amounts of cash.
   

Packing: Luggage
 

• It's wise to use hard-sided luggage. Garment bags with hanger hooks protruding from the  may snag and do damage.
   
• Put a card with your name and address inside your luggage as well as on the outside.

• Thousands of pieces of luggage come onboard at roughly the same time. Don't panic if your luggage isn't in your cabin when you arrive. It may take a few hours to get to your room.
   
• Two-way walkie-talkies are a great way for family members to keep in touch while onboard the ship. If you don't have your own, many ships rent them for the duration of the voyage.
   
• Many ships sell an "unlimited soft drink" cup for kids. If you're traveling with young ones, this can be a wise investment and save you some significant cash.
   
• The staff onboard your ship are an invaluable source of information. Most have visited your ports dozens of times. Ask your cabin stewards, waiters, etc. any questions you may have.
   
• Plan to spend an average of $10 USD to $15 USD a day for tips.
   
• Plan on giving gratuities to waiters, headwaiters, shore guides, spa and salon experts, cabin stewards and other staff who display exceptional service.

Some recommendations include $1.50 per person in your party to your assistant waiter, and a total of $2.50 per person for your headwaiter on three- and four-night cruises. For seven-night and longer cruises, headwaiter gratuities are at your discretion.  Double-check that bill. Many lines add a 15% gratuity automatically to bar, beverage, wine and deck service tabs.
 

• It's never wise to leave valuables out in the open in your cabin. Lock them in your luggage or see if the ship has a safe.
   
• Many cruise lines offer in-cabin babysitting. Take advantage of this service.
   
• Learn the exit route from your cabin to the open decks, in case of emergency.
   
• Sign up for spa services, sporting events, salon appointments and other activities as early as possible.
   
• In the unlikely event that you book an air/sea package and your luggage does not arrive, the airline is responsible for delivering it to the next port. Give the airline an itinerary and a list of port agents.
   
• If you have any issues with your cabin, report them immediately.
   
• Though not all ships offer tables for only two dining, yours may. If it's your preference, ask if your request can be accommodated when being seated.
   
• At first, you may wish to carry the deck plan with you. Take a walk and familiarize yourself with the layout of the ship, and learn how to reach your cabin from the main stairways.
   
• Items that are not included in your cruise fare may include: alcoholic beverages, soft drinks not consumed at dinner, laundry, phone calls and casino gaming.
   
• Got your eye on that something special in the onboard mall? Resist the urge to buy until the last day of the cruise. Many items inevitably go "on sale".

Do I have to get off the ship at each port of call?
No, you are never required to get off the ship. Some passengers prefer to spend the day onboard the ship, particularly when stopping at a port they’ve previously visited. Many ships have scheduled shipboard activities, even on port days.
 
How do I get from the ship to the pier?
Depending on the size of your ship and the port of call, you'll either dock right at the pier, or be shuttled into port via tender (free of charge).
 
Can I charge items to my shipboard account when I'm in port?
Shipboard accounts are for shipboard charges only. While in port, you can generally use a major credit card or traveler’s check for most purchases. Most ports also have ATMs and money exchange centers.
 
Are there planned activities at ports of call?
At each port of call, you have the option of booking a cruise line's shore excursions, or exploring on your own. All shore excursions can be booked at the ship's shore excursion desk.

Of course, guests aren't required to get off the ship at all, and may prefer to spend a quiet day onboard.
 
How do I find out what to do at ports of call?
The best way to research port-of-call activities is by reading the port reviews, or by checking the ship’s shore excursion offerings. We also suggest that you do a bit of independent research, either by searching the Internet or buying a respected guide book.
 
Is there full meal service on port days?
Yes, all ships have full meal service on both port and sea days.
 
Are meals paid for while I'm ashore in port?
No, you must pay for your own meals while ashore in port. One exception is when your ship is visiting the cruise line's private island (generally on Caribbean itineraries), during which time a beach buffet is generally served free-of-charge.
 

• Shore excursions can book up fast. If you haven't booked them before you depart, think about doing so as soon as possible after boarding.
   
• Remember to budget for shore excursion expenses. Excursion prices can vary greatly depending on your port of call, cruise line and activity.
   
• If you are elderly or physically challenged, check with the cruise line to make sure all the ports can accommodate your needs.
   
• If you're concerned about the drinking water and food onshore, ask your cruise director or physician for recommendations. In certain ports, some items (particularly water) may be off limits.
   
• You're never obligated to take an organized shore excursion. To explore a city more in depth or see something not included on an organized excursion, consider exploring on your own.
   
• If you explore on your own, you may not be covered by your ship's insurance. It's wise to check the details of your ship's policy beforehand.
   
• If you explore on your own, keep an eye on your watch. If you miss a launch, you'll have to meet the ship at the next port, at your expense.
   
• During a shore excursion, always carry identification, the name of your ship and its docked location. Bring a photocopy of your passport with you as well.
   
• Leave valuables, excess cash and unneeded credit cards aboard while on shore excursions.

• At the end of the cruise, you will receive a bill for signed items. If extra charges appear, ask to see all the charge slips and get a copy of a modified bill.
   
• If your cruise is less than satisfactory, inform a cruise line representative as soon as possible.