All About Cruising

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Cruising is an economical and enjoyable way to spend a vacation. The price of a cruise includes your accommodations, activities, entertainment, meals, and a voyage to some of the most exotic places in the world. In some cases the price may also include shore excursions. You will see the prices listed as per person rates including port charges and excluding government taxes. Call us today for more information or to make a reservation at 1-800-854-9426.

Are there myths about cruising?
Indeed. Check out this article by Tim Rubacky of cruisemates.com which covers some of the common ones.

How long are cruises?
Lengths vary from two days to many months. Three, five, seven, ten, and twelve night cruises are especially popular.

Where do cruises go?
Almost anywhere you want! Cruises visit over 500 ports worldwide - any destination accessible by water. Visit our destinations page to read about some of the most popular areas to explore.

Are there different types of cruises?
Yes, there are cruises to suit many tastes, including: boutique, luxury cruises with butler service; large, contemporary ships with a host of recreational facilities; yachts and classic vessels; special interest and exploration voyages specializing in unique destinations; river cruises that take you to the heart of your place of interest. Generally cruises may be classified as contemporary, premium, luxury, and river cruises. See each of our pages to learn more about these cruises.

Will I get bored?
Not at all! There is a wide range of activities to choose from once you are aboard the ship. This could range from swimming and soaking up the sun; exercise in the gym; dance classes; relaxing in the sauna; watching a feature film; attending a lecture; shopping; miniature golf; even ice skating!

What is there to do at night?
At night the cruise ship really comes alive. You can dance or see live entertainment. There are night clubs and lounges, feature films and parties. Most ships have casinos. There may also be a special event at night such as the Captain’s cocktail party, passenger talent show, Broadway-style show or Las Vegas-type review. Often you may be treated to a late night buffet.

Is there a charge for the entertainment?
On a cruise ship the entertainment is on the house. There is no cover, minimum, or charge for an admission ticket. The shows are live, films first-rate, and all included in your cruise fare.

What can I do when the ship is in port?
There is much to do when the ship is in port. You can take a guided tour known as a shore excursion, booked either through the ship or through a local company of your choosing, which may include searching ancient ruins, rafting, horse riding, water skiing, or tours of the locality; you can play golf or tennis; hunt for shopping bargains; go fishing, sailing, snorkeling, or scuba diving; get a sun tan on a beautiful beach, and of course you can explore on your own. These are only a few of the exciting activities that you can do once the ship reaches port.

What should I pack?
Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day whether on the ship or ashore. In the evening ships vary as to the attire, and the occasion will determine what you should wear. For example, at the captain’s gala you might want to wear something more formal such as a dark suit or cocktail dress, or even a dinner jacket or gown. Ask your travel agent about the particular cruise you are interested in.

Can I bring my hair dryer or shaver?
Most ships have 110 volt outlets in the staterooms but check with your travel agent before you go. Most ships feature hair dryers in your stateroom.

I’m single, can I still have fun?
Yes! Cruising is actually an easy way to meet new people and make friends. Most ships have parties for singles early in the cruise so you can get to know other guests right away. Many ships even offer gentlemen hosts to be dance partners, dinner companions, or a fourth at cards. Some ships have single staterooms, and others offer single rates for double staterooms. Many cruise lines will even find you a roommate so you can take advantage of the per person/double occupancy rate.

What about dining?
During the day there are many different dining options: in the formal dining room, on deck, in a pizzeria or at an espresso bar to name a few. At night most ships offer several venues including the formal dining room and smaller specialty restaurants. In the formal dining room you may have the option of a traditional dining time and assigned tables, or open seating, which operates similarly to a restaurant. More and more cruise lines are opening up their informal lido areas to evening dining.

Do I need a passport?
We strongly recommend that all travelers have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the last day of your cruise. Government regulations are continually being modified and it is best to be prepared. Currently, for cruises that depart and return to the same U.S. port, a certified copy of your birth certificate and government photo ID are sufficient documentation to board the vessel. But as was previously mentioned we strongly recommend using a valid passport.

Are there medical services on board?
While cruise ships are not comprehensive medical facilities, cruise lines understand that some people may have health needs during a cruise. Thus they are committed to providing first response and emergency care to guests until they can be transferred to a shoreside medical facility. Most cruise lines have 24-hour medical services and staff operating under guidelines developed in conjunction with the American College of Emergency Physicians (AECP). Cruise lines and travel agents encourage vacationers to obtain medical insurance, travel with adequate supplies of medical prescriptions and devices and to disclose pre-existing medical conditions before sailing.

What about money onboard the ship?
Usually there are two options for making purchases onboard the ship. With the cash option, you will typically make a cash deposit at the beginning of the cruise. Then you will be issued a card, which may also be your room key, that you use to make purchases. Each purchase reduces the amout you have available to spend based on your deposit amount. With the credit option, you will set up an account with a credit card before you board the ship. You will be issued a card /room key which will be used to make purchases, and at the end of the cruise you will get a bill that you have to sign authorizing charges to your credit card.


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