No fees.
No penalties. Just rates that are guaranteed to be less than the cruise lines
and most online agencies!*
*For
any cruise line such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival that prohibit all agencies
from discounting their prices, we will apply your discount towards travel
insurance or an on-board credit.
Real audio testimonials from
some of our customers! Listen
What is included in
the final price?
The final price for your cruise includes accommodations, meals and most
snacks, most onboard activities and entertainment, port charges, and
taxes. Airfare, airport transfers, and insurance are not included.
What is not included in the final price?
Your cruise price does not include organized shore excursions, alcoholic
beverages or carbonated soft drinks, photographs, gratuities, spa and
beauty treatments, medical services, casino expenditures or other miscellaneous
items you may purchase on board. Airfare, airport transfers, and insurance
are also usually not included.Back
to top
What is the Non-Commissionable Fare?
Non-commissionable fare is cruise line terminology for port charges,
which are fees and taxes assessed by government and other agencies,
incident to the ship entering, leaving, docking, anchoring and/or remaining
in port (e.g., waste removal, payroll for port employees).Back to top
What is the NON-COMM Fare?
NON-COMM or non-commissionable fare is cruise line terminology for port
charges, which are fees and taxes assessed by government and other agencies,
incident to the ship entering, leaving, docking, anchoring and/or remaining
in port (e.g.,waste removal, payroll for port employees).Back
to top
What are Port Charges?
Port charges are fees assessed by government and other agencies, incident
to the ship entering, leaving, docking, anchoring and/or remaining in
port (e.g., stevedoring, waste removal, payroll for port employees).Back to top
What are Government Fees?
Government fees, also known as miscellaneous charges and additional
taxes, may include any and all fees, charges, and taxes imposed by U.S.
and/or foreign governments or quasi-governmental authorities, including
U.S. custom fees, head taxes, hotel taxes, air taxes incurred as part
of a land tour, inspection fees, immigration and naturalization fees,
and Internal Revenue Service fees.Back
to top
What are Miscellaneous
(MISC) Charges?
Miscellaneous charges, also known as government fees and additional
taxes, may include any and all fees, charges, and taxes imposed by U.S.
and/or foreign governments or quasi-governmental authorities, including
U.S. custom fees, head taxes, hotel taxes, air taxes incurred as part
of a land tour, inspection fees, immigration and naturalization fees,
and Internal Revenue Service fees.Back
to top
What are Additional
Taxes?
Additional taxes, also known as government fees and miscellaneous charges,
may include any and all fees, charges, and taxes imposed by U.S. and/or
foreign governments or quasi-governmental authorities, including U.S.
custom fees, head taxes, hotel taxes, air taxes incurred as part of
a land tour, inspection fees, immigration and naturalization fees, and
Internal Revenue Service fees.Back
to top
What does Modified
Cruise Rate mean?
Modified cruise rates are My Cruise Club's specially negotiated rates,
which reflect a substantial discount off the cruise lines' published
prices.Back to top
What is the Pre/Post Package?
Pre/post package is Princess Cruises' term for airport-to-ship transfers.
If you do not need transfers for a Princess cruise, please contact us
at 888 847-4555 after you book your cruise and we will make the necessary
price adjustments. If you do need transfers, however, we recommend taking
Princess' pre/post package--it's usually much cheaper than privately
arranged ground transportation. Other cruise lines use the term to mean
adding extra days to your vacation with hotels, tour bus or train excursions.Back to top
Do I need Insurance?
We highly recommend purchasing trip insurance. Trip insurance offers
protection if you have to cancel or interrupt your cruise due to injury,
sickness, or death to you, a traveling companion, or immediate family
member.Back to top
What does Insurance cover?
Trip insurance offers protection if you have to cancel or interrupt
your cruise due to injury, sickness, or death to you, a traveling companion,
or immediate family member. It does not cover unstable, pre-existing
conditions. In addition, trip insurance provides emergency assistance
while you are on vacation, baggage protection, and trip delay coverage.
Insurance must be booked before or upon final payment of your cruise.
For details on specific cruise line insurance programs, please see below.
You may also purchase insurance directly through My Cruise Club's preferred
provider by going to our Travel Insurance
page.
What are Single, Double, and 3rd/4th/5th rates?
The double rate is the standard per-person price for a cabin occupied
by two passengers. The single rate is usually twice the double rate,
although some lines will occasionally offer reduced single rates for
selected sailings. The 3rd, 4th, and 5th passenger rates apply only
to cabins that can accommodate more than two guests, and are usually
less expensive than the double rate.Back
to top
Are there any
senior discounts?
Generally, our prices are lower than the senior discounts offered by
the cruise lines. However, we recommend contacting us after you've booked
your cruise in order to determine if any further discounts might apply
to your booking.Back to top
Are there any
past passenger discounts?
Generally, our prices are lower than the past passenger discounts offered
by the cruise lines. However, we recommend contacting us after you've
booked your cruise in order to determine if any further discounts/amenities
might apply to your booking.Back to top
Do children sail free or at a discount?
Most cruise lines do not offer discounts for children. The major exception
is Disney Cruise Line. On Disney ships (with 2 full-fare adults sailing),
children under the age of 3 are charged only port fees and taxes; children
ages 3-12 sail at a discounted children's rate plus port charges and
taxes; children over the age of 12 sail at 3rd/4th passenger rate plus
port charges and taxes.
How much do I owe and when is final payment due?
A deposit will be charged to your credit card upon booking. Final payment
is due 70-90 days prior to sailing. See below for more specific cruise
line policies. Cancellation charges begin once the final payment date
has been reached. Click here to
read Carnival's policies and here for Royal
Caribbeans policies. Note: These policies are
subject to change. It is your responsibility to know the policy of your
cruise line at the time of booking!
How will my credit card be charged?
A deposit will be charged to your credit card upon booking (Holland
America waits 24 hours). Please be sure that your credit card information
(name, address, card #, etc.) is accurate. Any incorrect information
could cause your booking to be cancelled by the cruise line. We NEVER
charge your card. Your card is always and ONLY charged directly by the
cruise line.Back to top
How will I know that my reservation is confirmed?
Once you have successfully completed the reservation process, you will
immediately receive an e-mail confirmation from us. After you deposit
your booking you will receive a plastic embossed lifetime membership
card for My Cruise Club!Back to
top
When will I get my
tickets?
Generally, you will receive your tickets approximately 2 weeks proior
to your sail date. For last-minute bookings (within 30 days of sail
date), tickets may be issued as pier-pickup (you pick up the tickets
at the pier on the day of your sailing).
Be sure to do your embarkation forms
online a few weeks prior to sailin!
What types of documentation do I need?
Apart from your tickets, U.S. and Canadian citizens must present proof
of citizenship in two of the following forms: passport; federal or state
government-issued photo I.D. card (e.g., driver's license); birth certificate
(original or certified copy).For example, you're covered if you have the following combinations
of identity:
1. passport and driver's license
2. passport and birth certificate
3. driver's license and birth certificate
Click HERE for more
details
If you are married, have taken your spouse's surname,
and plan to use your birth certificate as a form of identification,
you will need a marriage certificate or a valid photo I.D. card to support
the name change.Children under the age of 16
need proof of citizenship (e.g., passport, birth certificate) and should
present photo identification as well; children ages 16-18 need photo
identification.Back to top
What do I need if I'm not American or Canadian?
Citizens of countries other than the United States and Canada (aliens)
are required to present both a valid passport and an unexpired U.S.
multiple re-entry visa (B-2 Visitor's Visa) or a visa waiver. Resident
aliens need both a passport and an alien resident card. Aliens and resident
aliens should contact the appropriate consulate, U.S embassy, or U.S.
immigration office to inquire about necessary travel documentation. Back to top
What is the latest flight I can take?
You should plan to arrive at the airport nearest your port of departure
at least three hours before embarkation begins. If you're late, the
ship will sail without you. For your return flight, assume 5 hours for
you to get off the ship, clear customes and check in at the airport.Back to top
What happens if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
If you have purchased travel insurance or arranged air through the cruise
line, you are eligible for up to $500 in reimbursement costs incurred
while catching up with your ship at its next port of call. This applies
only to carrier-caused delays or other covered reasons.If
you have arranged air privately and have not purchased travel insurance,
you are responsible for all costs incurred while catching up with your
ship at its next port of call.Back to top
Can I customize my air through the cruise line?
Yes. You can customize your flight by selecting the dates, times, airlines,
departure cities, and other flight-related options of your choice. The
cruise lines charge $50-$75 per person for this service, in addition
to any airline charges.Back to top
Should I book
air through the cruise line?
Booking air through the cruise line protects you if your flight is delayed
and you either miss your cruise or are running late. If you are running
late for your cruise, cruise line representatives will make every effort
to get you to the ship before departure. If you miss your cruise altogether,
the cruise line will reimburse you up to $500 in costs incurred while
catching up with your ship at its next port of call.However,
air rates offered by the cruise lines are often more expensive than
those available to the general public--except on holidays and during
high seasons. The trade off is that the cruise line makes sure that
departure times and dates are such that you will reach your departure
port on time, barring any prolonged delays.Back to top
How much are transfers from airport
to ship?
Transfer costs depend entirely on the cruise line, your airport of arrival,
and the distance from the airport of arrival to the departure port.
Ask us when you book. We will need all your flight information to provide
the cruise line with the pre-arrange the transfers. You would then look
for the cruise line rep at the baggage claim area at the airport.
How do I arrange transfers?
You can reserve transfers by contacting us once you've booked your cruise.
You must make reservations at least 14 days prior to your sailing date. Back to top
What time do I board the ship?
Ship embarkation usually begins approximately 3 hours prior to departure.
You should check your ticket package for an exact time.
When does the ship depart?
Your ticket package will include a detailed cruise itinerary. Most ships
depart in the late afternoon (around 4 or 5 pm), but be sure to check
your detailed itinerary for an exact departure time.
What are First and
Second seatings for dining?
First seating is the earliest evening dining time available, usually
around 6:00 pm or 6:30 pm. Elderly passengers and families with children
tend to select this seating. Second seating is the later dining time,
usually around 8:00 pm or 8:30 pm.
What are Freestyle and Personal Choice dining?
Freestyle dining is Norwegian's term for its open-dining policy. Basically,
you can eat whenever (you must be seated by 10:00 pm), with whomever,
and wherever you want. That is, all onboard restaurants, cafés,
buffets, and dining rooms are available whenever you feel like dining.
At certain restaurants there may be a nominal per-person fee for reservations.Personal Choice dining is Princess' term for its open-dining
policy. Essentially, one dining area is reserved for passengers who
enjoy the flexibility of dining whenever they want, and one dining area
is set aside for traditional first and second seatings.Back
to top
What is proper dining attire?
Most cruise ships have one or two formal nights per cruise, when men
are encouraged to wear tuxedoes or nice suits, and women cocktail dresses
or evening gowns. Other nights are casual or semi-formal, when men can
get by with khakis/dress pants, collared shirt and sports jacket (semi-formal),
and women skirts, dresses, or pantsuits.Lunch
and breakfast are casual, and if you don't relish the idea of formal
night, alternative dining options are always available.Back to top
What does Waitlist mean?
A waitlisted cabin rate or dining seating designates a rate or seating
that is currently sold out. By putting your name on the waitlist, you
may be able to get the option of your choice when someone else cancels
or changes a booking.Back to top
Is cruise ship dining as good as I've been told?
Everything you've heard about cruise ship dining is true. You'll
find a varied selection of entrees (appetizers, salads, soups, vegetables,
and desserts, too) every time you sit down. And there's virtually
no limit on what or how much you can order. Just because your cruise
ship offers plenty of delicious food doesn't mean you'll come
home out of shape. You can choose low-cal, spa, or fitness menu selections
that are just as tempting as the regular menu. You can also jog, do
aerobics, work out in the gym, swim, golf, play tennis, and much more.
Burning calories was never so much fun! Best of all, the one thing you'll
never see on a cruise ship menu is a price!Back to top
What if I don't like my tablemates?
This is rarely a problem. However, if you wish to move to another table,
speak with the maitre d'. He'll make every effort to seat you
with more compatible dining companions...discretely and politely.Back to top
Are there non-smoking areas?
Today, virtually all ships have smoking and non-smoking tables or non-smoking
sections in the dining rooms and lounges. In fact, many cruise ship
dining rooms are now totally smoke-free, and at least one ship is a
completely smoke-free cruise ship, reflecting passenger requests. If
you want your dining table in a non-smoking area, or prefer a smoke-free
ship, just tell us! Onboard, in "open-seating situations,"
you can advise your waiter or the maitre d'.Back
to top
What is a Cabin Guarantee (GTY or GUAR)?
A cabin guarantee means that you have reserved a specific cabin category,
but you have not yet been assigned a specific cabin. For instance, if
you reserved a guaranteed outside cabin on the upper deck, that cabin
could be anywhere on the upper deck, and it's possible that you could
receive an upgrade. You will be assigned a specific cabin during embarkation;
occasionally you will be notified of your cabin number in advance.Back to top
What are W, X,
Y and Z cabins?
On Celebrity's and Royal Caribbean's ships, X, Y, and Z cabins are
guaranteed cabin designations for outside with balcony, outside, and
inside cabins, respectively. On Holland America's ships, W and X designate
guaranteed outside cabins and Y and Z designate inside cabins. Back to top
What amenities will my cabin have?
Cabin amenities vary depending on cruise line, ship, and category, but
most ships include the following: shampoo and soap, safe, TV, closet,
private bathroom, hairdryer, and refrigerator. Please note the following
exceptions:Hairdryers:
Carnival: only on the Conquest, Destiny, Legend, Pride, Spirit,
Triumph, and Victory
Holland America: all ships except the Noordam
Norwegian: all ships except the S.S. Norway
Refrigerators:
Carnival: only on the Conquest, Destiny, Legend, Pride, Spirit,
Triumph, and Victory; some suites on older ships
Disney: coolers only; refrigerators can be rented for duration of
cruise and are supplied free of cost for medical reasons
Norwegian: depends on category; some outside cabins and most suites
on older ships
Royal Caribbean: Adventure, Explorer, Navigator, and Voyager only;
some outside cabins and most suites on older ships
Due to safety reasons, irons are not provided in
cabins, but you are allowed to bring one aboard.Back to top
Are there medical services onboard?
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating
in coastal waters) has a fully-equipped medical facility and staff to
handle almost any emergency.Back to top
Are there laundry services aboard?
Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and a great many provide
dry-cleaning services. There is, however, an additional charge for professional
laundry and dry-cleaning services. Most ships also have self-service
launderettes. Back to top
Are there meeting rooms onboard?
Just about every full size ship has public rooms to offer as meeting
space for groups. If you'd like to make such arrangements, ask us
to contact the cruise line's group sales department to coordinate
schedules and arrange for any catering needs. Your ship may also be
able to offer audio-visual equipment.Back to top
How does someone call/e-mail me onboard?
All major cruise ship now offer computer terminals with Internet access,
which can be rented by the minute or hour. In addition, ships can be
reached via direct-dial satellite or fax. You can also telephone, telex,
radiogram or fax to anywhere in the world and be billed at applicable
ship-to-shore rates. The number for all Royal Caribbean ships is 888-724-7447.
The number for all Carnival ships is 877-225-7447. Cost is $9.50 per
minute.Back to top
Are there different
classes of service?
Today's cruise ships are "one-class." Everyone onboard
can use all of the ship's facilities. The price of a cabin is based
primarily on its size and location. Regardless of the category you book,
you'll enjoy the same courteous service, menus, activities, and
entertainment as everyone else onboard.
Will I get bored? Feel confined?
Hardly. Being at sea gives you a feeling of freedom few places can offer.
There's plenty of room. And it'll probably take you two or three
days just to discover what's onboard. Plus, you get the added adventure
of exploring new and exciting ports of call.
Cruise ships are like floating resorts with all the choices
fine resorts have to offer. You can be by yourself and lie back in a
lounge chair, breathe in the sea air, soak up the sun, read good books,
or watch the ever-changing view. Or, you can join in exercise classes,
dance classes, sports contests and other organized deck activities.
Perhaps you can practice your tennis stroke or golf swing, or shoot
some baskets. You can go for a swim, stretch out in the sauna or work
out in the gym. You can see a feature movie, attend a lecture by renowned
experts, play backgammon or bridge. And that's just when you're
onboard!
Back to topWhat's there to do at night?
At night, life aboard a cruise ship really turns on. There's dancing;
live entertainment in nightclubs, discos and lounges; feature films;
and parties with all your new friends. Most ships even have casinos.
There are also many special events like the Captain's Cocktail Party,
Passenger Talent Night, the Masquerade Parade, the Late Night Buffet
(just for one last bite to tide you over 'til breakfast). And the
night can go on as long as you want. Even until the spectacle of sunrise
at sea.Back to top
Is there a charge for entertainment?
Never. On a cruise vacation, the entertainment is on the house. There's
no cover. No minimum. No charge for an admission ticket. The shows are
live. The movies are first-rate. The variety is limitless.Back
to top
Is it easy to meet people?
A cruise ship is a great place to make new friends, because everyone's
so friendly. The atmosphere is cordial, relaxed. And you'll have
all kinds of things in common to talk about. At dinner. At cocktails.
Around the pool. Or along the promenade rail. And don't be surprised
if you find yourself making arrangements to meet them aboard ship again
next year.Back to top
Will there be
people like me?
No matter what you've heard to the contrary, there's no such
thing as a typical cruise passenger! All kinds of people take cruises...
of all ages... from all walks of life... singles, couples and families.
Passengers can vary from ship to ship and cruise to cruise. Just ask
us for advice on the best ship for you, based on your tastes and lifestyle.Back to top
What should I pack?
Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day,
whether you're on the ship or ashore. In the evening, ships vary
as to dress. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. On a formal
dining night or at the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably
want to wear something more dressy, such as a dark suit, or cocktail
dress; perhaps even a tuxedo or gown. (If you don't own a tuxedo--most
people don't--you can usually rent one onboard.)Back to top
Where is smoking prohibited/permitted?
Except for the Carnival Paradise, which strictly prohibits smoking onboard,
smoking is prohibited only in dining rooms/restaurants, hallways, and
most show lounges.Back to top
What do I do about money?
Most cruise lines will allow you to establish an onboard credit account
which permits you to charge onboard purchases to your stateroom. In
most destinations, American currency may be accepted or easily exchanged.
It is best to bring cash in small denominations since it is easier to
get change for these bills. It is also advisable to carry a limited
amount of cash since it is irreplaceable if lost. Traveler's checks
are recommended and you may also want to carry a credit card. Conversion
rates fluctuate on a daily basis.
How much should I tip?
Most cruise lines suggest $9-$10 per day, per guest. This amount covers
tips for your cabin steward, waiter, and busboy. A 15% gratuity is usually
included in all bar tabs. Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for
special services at your discretion. In general, you pay tips in cash
at the end of the cruise. Norwegian and Princess automatically add tips
to your onboard account, but the amount can be adjusted upon request.
How much is an unlimited-soda card?
The cost of an unlimited-soda card depends on the age of the cardholder
and the length of the cruise. For example, on a 7-day cruise, a card
for a child under 18 would be approximately $20, while passengers over
18 would be charged around $35. Cards apply exclusively to fountain
soda (no cans) and may only be purchased onboard.Back
to top
Can a pregnant woman travel?
Pregnancy is regarded as a medical condition. The cruise line may require
a medical certificate establishing the passenger's due date and
fitness to travel. In no case will the cruise line permit passengers
who are 24 weeks or more into pregnancy to travel. Click here
for more information.Back to top
Is motion discomfort a problem?
Not really. The most popular cruise areas boast some of the calmest
waters in the world. In addition, stabilizers on modern ships, advance
availability of accurate weather information, and development of effective
preventative medications have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence
of motion discomfort.Back to top
Is cruising affordable and a good vacation value?
Yes! There are cruise vacations to suit every budget, from the cost-conscious
to the most luxurious. Even more important, a cruise offers the best
travel value for your money. Your fare includes all meals, your cabin,
onboard daytime activities, nighttime parties and entertainment. So
for once, you'll know what your vacation will end up costing you
before you go. (Your only extra expenses will be drinks, optional shore
excursions, and personal services such as massage or hairstyling.) You'll
be amazed at the value.Back to top
How long are cruises?
As long or as short as you want. Itineraries can range from as little
as three days to as long as three months!
Back to top
Where can I go?
Where do you want to go? Cruises visit practically any destination accessible
by water.Back to top
Are all ships
and cruises fairly similar?
Far from it. Cruise ships can range from under 200 feet to over 1,000
feet. You can sail with anywhere from fewer than 100 fellow passengers
to over 2,600. Experience atmospheres ranging from casual to formal,
classically simple to ultra-deluxe. You can even choose between traditional
propeller-driven craft, sail-assisted cruise ships, or even a paddle-wheel
river boat.Back to top
Can I book on
short notice?
Even the most popular cruises sometimes have space available because
of late cancellations. But, to get exactly the ship, cabin and sailing
date you want, you should plan and book early. Most cruise lines also
offer early booking discounts for customers who plan ahead. Then, just
sit back and anticipate all the fun you're going to have!Back to top
Can I extend my cruise vacation?
We can arrange pre- or post-cruise land packages at the same time you
book your cruise. And, in many cases, your airline ticket will include
helpful options, such as free stopovers, that enable you to make your
own special arrangements. Back to
top
Do cruise lines accept group bookings?
Most lines will work with groups, depending on how many people are involved.
Policies vary from company to company and sometimes during certain times
of the year.
Can we celebrate
a "special" day?
Absolutely! Most cruise lines will even treat you to a complimentary
cake and a chorus of Happy Whatever to honor the occasion. Your birthday
or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers, canapes,
wine or cheese. You can even arrange for a special private party. All
you have to do is advise us in advance.Back to top
Do cruise lines welcome families with kids?
More and more cruise vacations are booked by families with children.
Most cruise lines make a special point of providing supervised activities
for youngsters, especially during school holidays. If your children
enjoy swimming, sports, games, movies and the adventure of new places,
they'll love a family cruise. You'll find the kids adapt to
shipboard life with ease, and you won't have to wonder what they're
up to every minute. The cruise staff will help keep them busy and entertained.
Best of all, children generally travel at a substantially reduced rate.
For more information, please see our Family
Cruises page.Back to top
Can singles have
fun on a cruise?
Cruising is ideal for people traveling alone, because it's so easy
to meet other people. In fact, most ships have parties just for singles
early on, so you can start to be involved right away. Most ships also
have single cabins as well as single rates for double staterooms. In
many cases, a cruise line will even find you a roommate to share a double
if you ask them.Back to top
Is cruising right
for honeymooners?
Without a doubt. Cruising offers an atmosphere that's just right
for romance...cozy dinners for two, strolling on deck at sunset, dancing
the night away (even under the stars) and so much more to remember forever.
Most lines provide special services from Sunday or Monday departures
to welcome champagne and breakfast in bed. (And, speaking of beds, most
ships have them in double, queen, or king sizes!) Also, some ships offer
special programs for performing a marriage ceremony or renewing your
marriage vows in port.Back to top
What's there to
do in port?
So much you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your
own. Or take a guided tour. You can search ancient ruins or hunt for
shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, a bicycle ride down
the side of a 10,000 foot volcano, or ride a horse across miles of hills
and beaches. Climb a waterfall or pyramid. See the birthplace of civilization
or listen to steel drum bands. Follow the footsteps of history or the
wake of a waterskiing boat. If there's still time, play golf or
tennis. Eat native foods. Learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim at some
of the world's best beaches. Catch a record marlin. Sail, snorkel
or go scuba diving. Go to a nightclub or glittering casino. Take a cable
car to the top of a mountain. Explore dark catacombs. In short, a cruise
is the easiest way to see new places and do all the things you dream
of. Cruising is the perfect way to sample a number of destinations that
you may want to return to for another vacation...and you never have
to pack and unpack - the destinations come to you!
Back to topHow physically challenging are the shore excursions?
It really depends on the tour. For example in some of the European cities
you'll be visiting are ancient. Their quaint, narrow, cobblestone
streets have been in existence long before motorized transportation.
To preserve their beauty, some cities and old towns are pedestrian only.
Most tours require some degree of walking; however, some excursions require
extensive walking. Likewise, grand entryways and sprawling gardens of
certain castles and cathedrals make walking and stair-climbing a necessity.
Most cruise lines indicate which tours are more physical
than others in their brochures and at the Shore Excursion Desk. Whatever
your fitness level, we highly recommend comfortable, low-heeled walking
shoes.
Back to topWhat do shore excursions Include?
Shore excursions include transportation according to the itinerary,
and meals, refreshments, guides, and entrance fees as indicated in the
tour description book. Fares for shore excursions are subject to change
without notice.
How do I book shore excursions?
When you receive your tickets, your package should include a shore excursion
guide. Once you've selected the excursions you wish to take, you
can make reservations by booking on the cruise line's website, calling
the cruise line directly, or booking once you're onboard the ship. Many
popular excursions sell out quickly, so we recommend reserving as far
in advance as possible. On Royal Caribbean, You can pre-reserve selected
excursions on their website by clicking here . Another
company also sells excursions you can pre-book here .
Back to topWhen and where do shore excursions depart?
Prepaid tickets will indicate the departure location and time. If you
are reserving an excursion in advance, you will be notified as to the
times and locations along with other important details.
Back to topIs it possible to "miss the boat?"
All guests are required to be back aboard their ship no later than 30
minutes prior to the scheduled departure time, which is listed in the
daily bulletin and at the gangway as you leave the ship. The scheduling
of all shore excursions conform with this requirement. However, if you
leave a tour en route, it will be your responsibility to secure transportation
and return to the pier on time. If you don't make it, they'll
see you at the next port at your expense.
Back to topWhat type of transportation is used for Shore Excursions?
Standards of transport vary considerably from country to country; however,
excursions utilize the best quality transportation possible in each
port. Air-conditioned vehicles are not always available. Guest wishing
to travel together with friends should leave the ship together, as this
will help the tour staff allocate space in the same vehicle.
Back to topWill transportation be available to the city centers?
There are many ports in Europe that are not located in the city center.
For the convenience of their guests, some cruise lines like Royal Caribbean,
shuttle bus service is arranged in those ports that are located a 1/2
mile or more away from the closest city center and do not have adequate
local transportation available. (Believe us, finding local transportation
is not a problem in the Caribbean. They will find you.) Schedules and
days of operation are usually posted in the ship's bulletin.
Back to topHow should I tip our Guide/Driver?
Extending a gratuity to your guide or driver is strictly optional; however,
in some countries, these personnel may anticipate that if you were pleased
with their services, you will reward them in a monetary way. A commonly
accepted guideline is $1 per person for a half day and $2 per person
for a full day.
Back to topHow can I find out more about the ports we'll be
visiting?
On most cruise ships, a qualified lecturer will hold informative talks
on each port of call you visit. If you still have questions, the Port
Lecturer will be glad to answer them. You should also do a little research
before you go. Your local library should have all kinds of books pertaining
to your destination. Formers and Fudo's also have wonderfully informative
books identifying local points of interest, culture, and history.
Back to topWill I miss meals when I go ashore?
Most tour departure times complement the ship's meal service hours,
so you can enjoy your meal aboard then go ashore. However, on some full
day tours, or if you take more than one tour in a day, your return on
board may not coincide with meal hours. A buffet, snack, or room service
is usually available all the time.
Back to topWhat should I wear?
Other countries may have more conservative ideas about dress than you're
accustomed. Attention is drawn to this matter so as not to offend. Cruise
lines suggest when visiting places of worship (cathedrals), you dress
conservatively, avoiding shorts or sundresses. Attend the port lectures
for guidance.
Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes at all times.
When visiting ruins or walking on cobblestone streets, wear rubber-soled
shoes. It's also smart to wear a sun hat.
Back to topWill I have time to shop?
Whenever possible, shopping time is allocated within the framework of
the excursions. However, tours are not designed primarily for shopping.
home
sitemap
email
Tell
a friend
