Cruise Q&A

Which is the best cruise line?

There is so much variety among cruise lines that each cruise line could claim to be the best in some area. It is mainly up to your personal preference. Cruise lines offer a variety of amenities and services to choose from that could make them the best cruise line for you. In general most cruise lines offer similar service and a similar onboard product. However, even though the overall product is similar it is delivered in very different ways. Whether you would like a traditional and formal cruise or a relaxed and casual cruise, there is a “best cruise line” for each person’s tastes. To see how cruise lines compare please visit our cruise line rankings and cruise line pages.

What are the most popular cruise destinations?

The overall top cruise destination traditionally has been the Caribbean. Cruise lines have made it much easier to sail to the Caribbean by moving the ports of embarkation closer to the passengers. A few years ago you could only get to the Caribbean from Florida. Today you can sail on Caribbean itineraries that leave from New York, Houston, New Orleans as well as Florida ports. However cruising is becoming so diverse that seasonal itineraries especially Alaska and Europe are probably the most requested. In fact, many of the best dates for Alaska and Europe are almost sold out 8-10 months in advance. Another up and coming cruise destination is Hawaii. NCL now has year round 7-day cruises from Honolulu that are the best way to see the Islands. Other cruise lines have also added several itineraries that include the Hawaiian Islands.

What type of cabin should be purchased -- inside, outside or balcony?

This is a preference and budget issue. The recommendation is, if it fits your budget, get a balcony. It is amazing how many people say they will rarely be in the room so it doesn’t matter, but when they return they complain about being in an inside cabin. Inside cabins do not have any windows, outside cabins have a window or port hole and a balcony or veranda cabin usually have a floor to ceiling door with a balcony. It is amazing what a difference a balcony makes in your cruise experience. Here are just a few advantages to a balcony.

• Deck space is usually at a premium. On days at sea unless you arrive early it’s hard to find a deck chair. If you have a balcony you have a deck chair on your balcony. You can read your book and not be bothered by anyone.
• If you are in Alaska, Tahiti or some other scenic place you don’t have to fight the crowds, you can view the beauty from your private balcony.
• In a balcony or at least an outside cabin you have reference to the time of day (the sun).

If it is within your budget a balcony cabin is highly recommended. Many cruisers that have sailed in a balcony won’t go any other way on future cruises. In fact, balconies are the first category to sell out on a cruise. Cruise lines are recognizing this and many new ships are built with more balconies than any other type of cabin.

What is a guaranteed cabin?

A cabin guarantee is where you don’t choose your cabin location. The cruise lines often use cabin guarantees to sell unsold space. If you are on a budget and don’t care where you cabin is a guaranty is a good way to save money. A cabin guaranty will guaranty you the cabin category you paid for or higher. For instance you might pay for a category H balcony cabin, but when you get your cabin assignments it might be in the Category F balcony, which is 2 categories higher. Cabin guarantees are not available on every ship or every sailing, but if you are not particular about your cabin location it can be a good way to save money. When you choose a guarantee it is rare that you will be moved from an inside to an outside or an outside to a balcony, but you can be moved to a more preferable cabin location. If you buy a guaranteed inside cabin you most likely are going to get another inside cabin, but possibly in a more favorable area of the ship.

How large are cruise cabins?

In general cruise cabins are fairly small. Most are in the range of 150 to 180 square feet. Although cabins are fairly small they are surprisingly comfortable. If you don’t like small spaces you may want to consider getting a balcony cabin or at least an outside cabin with a window. The floor to ceiling glass door in balcony cabins really opens up the small cabin.

What should I consider when choosing a cabin, and what about motion sickness?

The preferred place on the ship is mid-ship as high as possible. Many people choose this location out of default. Here are a few things to consider. The main dining rooms and most entertainment are usually on the lower levels and the pool decks and outdoor activities are on the higher levels. When choosing a cabin look at the deck plans to see what is on the floor above and below you. Occasionally if you are above or below a lounge or pool deck you can hear the music or people walking.

If you are prone to motion sickness the best place is as low as possible and mid-ship. If mid-ship is not available then aft is better. In the aft part of the ship you usually will get some engine vibration, but the front moves more with rough seas. If you are prone to motion sickness you can also consider one of the larger cruise ships which handle motion better.

Which is better a large ship, small ship or medium size ship?

This is a question that boils down to personal preference. Even among cruise lines the overall experience is different depending on the size of the ship. In general a large ship is over 100,000 gross tons, a small ship is anything under 40,000 gross tons, and medium ships are everything in between.

Most of the larger ships are post Panamex ships because they are too large to go through the Panama Canal. Bigger seems to be the trend among cruise lines. Most large ships are fairly new and you will get all the latest amenities and features. Many cruisers today prefer the larger ships because of the amenities offered. A draw back of a large ship is they carry a lot of passengers and so at times can feel a bit crowded. Also because of the size they have to tender at more ports where medium and smaller ships may be able to dock.

Medium size ships make up the bulk of most cruise line fleets. Most medium sized ships especially the newer ones will have most of the features of the larger ships, but they are smaller and carry fewer passengers. In some ways many cruisers feel like there is better service on the medium sized ships as compared to the larger ships.

There are not many small size cruise ships among the major cruise lines. You will usually find the small cruise ships sailing in the fleets of luxury cruise lines or sailing the more specialized itineraries such as Tahiti. Small ships deliver the best service but generally have less to offer onboard. On small ships entertainment usually is very different. You generally won’t get the show type productions you see on medium and large ships. Small ships have some advantages where they can get to places larger ships can’t get to. For instance a small ship can get inside the reef in Tahiti where larger ships have to tender from outside the reef. Again, the choice of ship size really comes down to preference. You’ll have to try them all and tell us your preference!

What is the difference between an old ship versus a new ship?

It is amazing how many people insist sailing on only the newest ship. Over the past 10 years cruise lines have been building ships that are more amazing than the next. In fact, there is a new cruise ship about every 3 months. This is revolutionizing the way passengers think about cruising. Many of the older ships are being retired or moved to specialty itineraries. In general a new ship is one that has been built within the past 10-12 years. Cruise ships built within the last 5 years certainly have the best “wow” factor as cruise lines are coming up with the latest and greatest innovations and activities. All cruise ships are refurbished every 3-5 years so even the older ships remain in good shape. The main difference between an old ship and a new ship is the amenities. New ships have better entertainment venues, a variety of dining choices and amenities such as bowling alleys, drive in style outdoor movies, rock climbing walls etc. It will be interesting to see what the cruise lines come up with next!

What is the most unique cruise ship feature or innovation?

There are several unique innovations and features. One of the most basic innovations is the balcony cabin. Balcony cabins are the first to sell and have made the cruise experience more comfortable. The cruise lines are currently coming up with amazing onboard innovations and activities. Here are just a few of the most unique innovations:

• NCL has 2 ships with bowling alleys on them.
• Princess has several ships with “Movies Under the Stars.” This is a huge screen in one of the pool areas where they show Hollywood movies. In the evening they show a feature presentation with popcorn and flannel blankets if needed to keep you warm.
• Cunard on the QM2 has a planetarium.
Royal Caribbean has the Flow Rider where you can surf or body board.
• NCL and Royal Caribbean have rock climbing walls on several ships.
• Royal Caribbean has an ice skating rink on a few ships.

The innovations will just keep growing!

What is the onboard service like?

In general onboard service is excellent. There are some personal preferences that you may want to consider when choosing a cruise. Cruise lines offer great service but they deliver it in different ways. Cruise lines have many different departments to serve you from a cabin steward and waiter to the purser and entertainers. In general you will find cruise staff gives some of the best service you have ever had. Cruise staff works very hard to ensure that you have an enjoyable cruise. There is always someone there to help you.

Can the itinerary that I purchased be changed?

It is rare, but yes it can change. There are three main reasons why it might change. The main reason is the weather. Some ports require the ship to tender passengers to the shore on smaller boats because they can’t dock. If the surf is high the cruise ship may cancel or change the port due to safety reasons. If there is a large storm in the area of a port your itinerary may be modified for safety reasons.

The second reason is a mechanical failure. Unfortunately cruise ships are built by man and can have mechanical issues. Most new cruise ships have an innovative and complex propulsion system. This system allows ships to be faster and more efficient, and the system is also has a very effective stabilization system. Instead of an internal motor these new systems are in pods below the ship. It is rare but when these fail the speed of the ship is usually slowed. Because these are on pods below the ship they can only be fixed in port or sometimes the ship may need to be dry-docked to fix the issue. If there is a speed issue cruise lines will usually change the order or substitute ports but still operate the cruise. If this happens the cruise line will give you an onboard credit or something to try and make the situation right. In rare cases they will cancel the cruise and fix the problem in port or actually dry dock the ship to fix the issue.

The third reason, which is also rare, is a ship in distress. Maritime law requires all ships in the area to respond to ships in distress. Depending on what is required this may cause the ship to be late to or have to cancel a port. It has happened a few times over the past few years that cruise ships have had to change headings or turn around because they are the closest ship to a vessel in distress.

Please note that in any of these situations the cruise lines are not obligated to reimburse you for itinerary changes. They usually do and it is usually pretty fair compensation. Depending on the severity of the change cruise lines usually offer an onboard credit or a discounted future cruise.

What if there is bad weather or a hurricane?

Passenger and crew safety are the main concern in the case of a hurricane or large storm. If there is bad weather or a hurricane the cruise line will modify or in some cases cancel sailings. It all depends on the weather system and timing. It is usually easy to sail around a hurricane and change the order of ports. The cruise lines are sensitive to the customers that this may be their lifetime vacation and will do everything they can to make the sailing. Because weather is considered an act of God cruise lines (airlines too) are not required to reimburse for itinerary changes, however they usually do and will let you reschedule your cruise at no penalty (air penalties may still apply). Hurricane season in the Caribbean is June through November with the worst months being August and September.

Should I buy the cruise line air or get my own?

In general it is less expensive to not purchase your air through the cruise line. Here is a very general guide to getting airfare for your cruise:

• If your cruise starts at one port and ends at another port it is a good idea and usually similar in price to buy the cruise line air.
• If you are traveling internationally such as to Europe, Tahiti, The South Pacific etc. it is usually better to buy the cruise lines air.
• NCL America’s Hawaii Cruise has discounted air to Hawaii in conjunction with the cruise. It is frequently a better rate than on your own.

Here are the advantages of cruise line air:

• Cruise line air usually has some sort of guarantee that if you are delayed they will hold the ship or catch you up to the next port. Please note that this provision is becoming more rare as the airlines get harder to work with.
• Cruise lines air usually includes transfers or if needed an overnight hotel.
• Cruise line air includes meet and greet services at the airport.
• You can purchase everything in one transaction; it is more of a worry free vacation.

The cruise lines are in the business of selling cruises not airfare so there are several disadvantages to cruise line air including:

• You cannot choose your flight schedule. The cruise line will put you on the flight that will get you to the location of departure, but that is about all they will do. This may mean some unusual connections or overnight flights.
• Air tickets are usually not ticketed until 30-45 days prior to departure. This means that you have the last pick of seats. The cruise line also does not assign seats, which means that once your schedule is confirmed your travel agent or your self will have to call the airlines to get seats assigned. You will get whatever seats are available at that time.

Should I arrive a day early to catch my cruise?

That depends on where you are coming from. You should plan on flying in a day early if you cannot schedule a flight that arrives by noon or before for a cruise that departs between 4PM and 6PM. At most ports the recommended time is 3 hours before departure but missing the cruise departure is one thing you don’t want to do. If you fly in the day of the cruise you should plan ample time for flight delays due to weather, air traffic control or flight cancellations, especially in the winter. In fact, during the winter season you should probably fly in the day before regardless. If there is a winter storm anywhere it can affect you getting to the cruise even if the storm is not anywhere near you. For instance, suppose you are traveling from New York to Miami and there is a huge storm in Denver. Most people would think they are OK but what if your plane was scheduled to come from Denver? A winter storm in one area can disrupt the whole system especially if the storm is in a major hub. If you are flying from west to east to catch a cruise especially west of the Rockies you should plan on an overnight or at least take a red eye overnight flight.

What is a pre and post package and should I purchase one?

Cruise lines offer pre and post packages where you can arrive a few days before the cruise or stay a few days after the cruise. This is a great way to see the initial port city. For instance on NCL’s Hawaii cruise most guests do not get to see Oahu (Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center and Waikiki). By scheduling a pre or post stay you will see more of that island.

A pre package is also a good way to go if you already need to fly in a day before the cruise. When you purchase a pre or post package from the cruise line they include the transfers to the ship (pre) or the hotel (post) and all the transfers in between.

What is a cruise tour?

A cruise tour is like a pre or post package but they do a more in depth program. Cruise tours can be hosted to fully escorted depending on what you prefer. Cruise tours can be anywhere from 2 nights to 10 days. Cruise tours are offered all over the world mainly in specialty destinations. The best example of cruise tours is in Alaska. Princess Cruise Lines offers the most comprehensive cruise tours of any cruise line. Most people want to see more of Alaska than the cruise can offer. For example, Denali National Park in Alaska is a must see and a cruise tour is the best way to see Denali. Cruise tours will include transportation, sightseeing and a host or escort. Cruise tours also often provide preferred or exclusive access to certain attractions.

What is the best way to get from the airport to the pier?

There are two main ways to get from the airport to the pier. The first is to pre purchase the transfers from the cruise line. The second is by taxi. The most common way is to use the cruise line transfers. If you purchase the cruise line transfers there will be a cruise line representative waiting in the baggage claim area. Once you have claimed your luggage you will get on a bus and go to the cruise ship. Depending on the port the most economical way to get to the cruise ship is by taxi. Depending on the number of people a taxi can sometimes be half of what the cruise line charges. Taxis also are sometimes the easiest way to get to the ship.

What is the hardest part of a cruise?

There are three things you should plan for and not let them ruin your vacation. The first is air travel. Most cruise passengers have to fly to get to the port city. Unfortunately flying is not as customer friendly as it used to be. Airports are more complicated and crowded. Internationally, long immigration and custom lines need to be anticipated. Just plan that your travel day will be worth it once onboard.

The next two inconvenient components to a cruise are embarkation and disembarkation on the first and last days of the cruise. No land-based hotel has the unfortunate dilemma of checking out 2000 to 3000 guests, cleaning the whole ship and checking in 2000 to 3000 new guests in a 4-6 hour period. This is and will continue to be a challenge for the cruise ships. The cruise lines also have that challenge plus they have to comply with customs, immigration and Coast Guard rules and regulations.

Sometimes on the first day’s embarkation everyone seems to show up at the same time so the lines can be long. To avoid the lines you can try showing up later in the day. Cruise lines have tried to make the last day’s disembarkation a bit more smooth by assigning colors and times for guests to debark. This never seems to work because no one pays attention to the assigned times. To minimize your time standing in lines and crowds it is best to debark when your color or time is called.

What is the best part of a cruise?

There are just too many best parts of a cruise to name! It’s all up to you whether it’s the ports, the food, the entertainments, the scenery, the wildlife, the spa, the sun, or the relaxation. The list goes on and on!

What should I expect the first day of the cruise?

There is a lot going on the first day of the cruise. Once you are aboard the best thing to do is familiarize yourself with the ship. In your cabin or at the purser’s desk you will find a deck plan of the ship. You can use this to help with navigating the ship. There will also be some onboard seminars to help you with the cruise experience. In your room you will find a daily cruise newsletter. This will tell you the times of the shows, dinner and all entertainment and activities aboard.

agencies require a muster drill. During the muster drill guests will be required to proceed to their muster station. This is where you would go in case of an emergency. During the drill you will be instructed about safety procedures. Shortly after the drill you will set sail. It is fun to be on deck and watch the crew and then watch the landscape fade away

What should I do if I have a problem or service issue?

All cruise lines are dedicated to providing you the best service possible. If you have any problems with anything please go to the Guest Relation or Pursers Office and let them know. Most problems or issues can be resolved in a short time. Too often guests do not let anyone know of issues that can easily be resolved and improve the cruise experience. If the ship personnel do not know about a problem, they can’t fix it. Again, cruise lines are dedicated to giving you the best possible experience. Let them know what they can do to help you have the best possible cruise experience.

What should I do to prepare to disembark the ship on the last day?

The last day’s disembarkation can be one of the more stressful parts of a cruise. Here is how it works. Usually on the second to last day of the cruise you will receive disembarkation instructions. These instructions will assign you a color that corresponds to you scheduled departure time. Departure times are usually coordinated by flight times. Those with early flights will be the first off the ship. The departure letter will give you the recommended times to put your luggage out on the last night of the cruise. You will set your luggage out usually by 10PM on the last night of the cruise. Your luggage will be moved ashore and sorted by departure color or time. Please don’t pack any important medicine and remember to leave out your clothes for the next morning. On the last morning most cruise lines will want you out of the cabins by 8:00AM so they can start cleaning the cabins. They will have most passengers off the ship by 10:00AM. You can wait in a public room until your color or time is called to disembark. At most ports you will enter a large luggage room. The luggage that you left out the night before will be sorted by color. Once you have your luggage you can proceed to exit the terminal. In most cases you will need to go through customs and passport control. After you have exited the terminal cruise line representatives will help you find your transportation. This is a day that some patience will be needed. Most people do not disembark when their color is called and sometimes it seems like a mad dash to exit. Use patience and disembark at the appropriate time, it will make thing go much more smoothly.

Before you get off the ship you should check your onboard account. At least 24 to 48 hours prior to getting off the cruise you should also visit the purser’s desk and get a copy of your onboard account. Review your account and make sure everything is OK. If there are any discrepancies report them to the purser because if you wait until the last morning there will be a huge line and you may not get the issues resolved.

What will cost extra on board?

The main thing that will be an additional expense is drinks. Soda, mixed drinks and premium drinks are additional. On most cruise lines you can buy drink packages or soda cards. You purchase these once on board and they give you a certain number up to unlimited drinks or soda. Water is always available and juices are usually provided free of charge at meal times. Some of the activities and classes will also be an additional charge but most are included.

What will the cruise line try to sell me?

It is amazing what you can find on a cruise ship to purchase. Sometimes it will seem like the cruise line is trying to sell you everything under the sun. If you are not a shopper just disregard all the selling and enjoy your vacation. The main things that cruise ships are selling are photos and shore excursions. It seems there is a ships photographer around every corner. Photos are a very popular purchase on board. If you don’t want your picture taken you can politely say no, walk around the photo area or let them take your photo with no intention of purchasing. Ships also have many shops and stores. At these stores you can purchase a candy bar or a cruise souvenir or a whole new wardrobe. If you’re a shopper you’ll love it, if you’re not a shopper there are plenty of other activities.

What is the dining experience like on a cruise?

Dining on a cruise is truly an experience. From the main restaurants to the specialty restaurants it is truly a treat to dine aboard a cruise ship.

Dinnertime is the most interesting meal of the day. In the main restaurants you will be served a 3 to 5 course meal. You will have a choice of 3 to 4 appetizers, 1 to 2 soups, 1 to 2 salads, 4 to 5 entrees and 3 to 4 desserts. The menu will change every night and sometimes it is themed such as Italian night or the Captain’s Gala. Many cruise lines also have an always-available menu. This menu usually has a pasta, steak, fish and chicken dish. Some of the menu items on the regular menu can be fairly exotic. Because the items are exotic they may not be what you expected, if that is the case, do not hesitate to get a different menu item. Sometimes you may want to try two items. That is not a problem either, just order two entrees! The menus for dinner will be posted outside the main dining rooms after lunch is completed so you can start planning your evening meal. If you are not in the mood for the main restaurants there is usually a dinner buffet available. You can also eat at the specialty restaurants or enjoy room service.

Breakfast is served in the main restaurants but most people go to the buffet for breakfast. The onboard breakfast buffet usually consists of hot and cold items. The buffet is quick and easy, but the main restaurants usually have slightly better meals.

There are many options for lunch aboard. The main restaurants are usually open and you will receive similar service and meals as at dinnertime. The buffet is open and there is usually a poolside grill with hotdogs and hamburgers. Most cruise ships also have a cold sandwich station and pizza is always a lunchtime favorite especially on Princess.

Will I like the food?

Yes! There is something for everyone and the food is generally excellent. Dining is an international experience. Some of the dishes are designed for those with more sophisticated palates and some are designed for normal dining. Some menu items may not be what you were expecting and some are exactly what you were expecting. If you don’t like it send it back, If you do, order two. The onboard dining experience and especially the food is one thing that cruise lines emphasize. Cruise lines do everything they can to make dining a special experience.

What is the evening dress code, and are there formal nights?

The minimum dress code in the evening is usually business casual. No shorts, tee shirts or swim wear, etc. Most cruise lines will have some formal nights. The number of nights will be listed in your cruise documents. On the formal nights many guests will be in tuxedos and evening gowns, but you don’t have to get that dressed up in most cases. Usually a nice suit or dress will be sufficient. Getting dressed up is part of the fun but if you don’t want to get dressed up there is always the buffet or room service. Another option for those who don’t like to get dressed up is NCL, they only have optional formal nights and offer a more relaxed atmosphere.

What is a Specialty Restaurant and do they cost extra?

Many cruise lines offer specialty restaurants. A specialty restaurant is usually a more exclusive and intimate dining experience. Most specialty restaurants cost anywhere from $10 - $50 per person (NCL has some free specialty restaurants). Specialty restaurants include high-end steak houses to Teppenyaki style restaurants. At some specialty restaurants you can choose you own live lobster (NCL) to 12 course Italian luxury meals (Princess). You will need a reservation for most specialty restaurants.

Top specialty restaurants on the sea:

• Sabatini’s on Princess – 12 course Italian meal.
• The Steak House on NCL – The best cuts of meat at sea.
• Teppenyaki on NCL – Japanese style Teppenyaki.
• Sterling Steak House on Princess – Exclusive dining atmosphere.
• The Supper club on Carnival – A unique dinning atmosphere including entertainment.
• The Italian Restaurant on NCL – This is a free restaurant serving the best Italian.
• Le Bistro on NCL – French restaurant with the best filet mignon and desserts.

Can I dine 24 hours a day?

On most cruise lines you can get food 24 hours a day. Some cruise lines have a restaurant open 24 hours (NCL) and some only have a light buffet or room service open 24 hours. Some smaller ships do not have food available all the time.

Which dining is better -- first seating, second seating or anytime dining?

There are two types of dining plans -- Traditional and anytime. Most cruise lines only have traditional dining which has a first seating and second seating. If you choose traditional dining you will be assigned to tables ranging in size from tables of 4 to tables of 10. Princess Cruise Lines has both traditional and anytime dining, which they call Personal Choice Dining. NCL has all anytime dining which they call Freestyle Dining and includes up to 10 restaurants to choose from.

In traditional dining there are two seatings. First seating is usually at 6:00PM and second seating is usually at 8:30PM. Most people prefer the first seating but there are advantages to both. The seating times are chosen at the time of your reservation and if you want first seating book early. Discuss the seating times with your reservation agent.

Anytime dining is a great idea where you can dine when you want and still get the same food and service that you would expect on a cruise. There are some challenges with anytime dining because everyone wants to dine at 6:00PM. During that time the lines and waits can be quite long. If you choose anytime dining or sail on NCL the best time to plan on dining is right when the restaurant opens or around 7:30 PM or after. If you choose to dine at a specialty restaurant reservations are required and you should make the reservations as early as possible (24 - 48 hours in advance).

Should I purchase the cruise line shore excursions or arrange my own?

There are advantages to both. When you purchase cruise line excursions you can be fairly confident that you are getting the best tours and guides that the destination offers. You also have some security when purchasing the cruise line shore excursions. If your tour is delayed they will hold the ship. If you get your own excursion on shore you will usually pay slightly less for similar excursions, but you never know what you are going to get. Sometimes you will get excellent tours, and sometimes the excursions are a bust. If you do arrange your own excursions make sure you are back on time. If you miss the ship they generally won’t wait for you. Here is a general rule for shore excursions. If it is more of a specialty excursion (float plane, submarine etc) or a popular excursion (Sting Ray City) get it from the ship. If you just want a quick tour of the port or a basic excursion you can go either way.

What is the onboard entertainment like?

Entertainment is one of the best parts of a cruise. Most cruise ships have their own production teams on board that will bring you cabaret to Broadway style productions. Along with the shows cruise ships also employ comedians, magicians, jugglers and celebrity performers. In the evening time almost all lounges and bars will have some sort of live entertainment.

Will I get bored on days at sea?

That depends. Cruise ships do offer many activities during days at sea. Many first time cruisers have a hard time with days at sea. The more you cruise the more you come to appreciate days at sea. Days at sea can be filled with fun poolside activities or relaxing on a deck chair soaking up the sun or reading a book.

Are cruises family friendly?

In most cases yes! Cruise lines are targeting multi-generational family groups. It seems that a cruise is a great place for Grandma and Grandpa to take the kids and grandkids. Most of the entertainment is suitable for children and if it is not it usually is posted in the daily newsletter. You occasionally have to be careful with some of the outside talent such as comedians with younger children.

Are there programs for children?

Yes! Cruise lines have programs for children of all ages. The children’s programs are usually divided up into three age groups 4-9, 10-14 and 15-18. Cruise lines also offer babysitting service so parents can have a night out. Children’s and teen’s programs offer a variety of age appropriate activities from learning to fun. At the end of the cruise it sometimes is hard to pull the kids away from the all the fun.

Will the ship dock at every port and what is tender service?

No, some ports are too small for large cruise ships or the water is too shallow to accommodate the ships. In these ports you will go ashore by tender. A tender is usually a lifeboat specially designed for this purpose. Some cruise lines will also use local tender services. In ports where tendering is required 4-10 tender boats will run constant shuttle service from the ship to shore. Please consult you itinerary for ports that require a tender. Ports that require a tender also may be cancelled due to weather conditions. This is rare but if the seas are too rough it is not safe to operate the tenders.

Do I need to pay tips onboard and how are gratuities charged?

Tips or gratuities are usually paid at the end of the cruise. You do not need to pay additional tips as you go. In fact most bar service already has a gratuity added. You should plan on $10 per day per passenger for gratuity. Most cruise lines will charge this amount directly to your onboard account and divide it up among the staff. You can always go to the purser’s office and adjust your gratuity up or down depending on your experience. Cruise staff works hard to please you. Your $10 per day is usually divided up in the following manner: $3 for your cabin steward, $3 for your waiter, $2.50 for your assistant waiter and $1.50 for unseen restaurant staff. For cruise lines that have anytime dining the tips are divided up in a similar manner among waiters, assistant waiters and restaurant staff.

How do I pay for things onboard?

Cruise ships are cashless. When you check in you will set up an onboard account with your credit card. If you do not have a credit card the cruise line will usually require $200 - $500 per person deposit. On newer ships your key card will also double as your charge card. Anything you purchase onboard will be added to your cabin account. You will settle your account at the end of the cruise.

When should I schedule my return flight?

Each cruise line has a different recommended time so you should verify with your cruise line. In most cases you will be off the cruise ship by 9:00AM. You should schedule your return flight no earlier that 1:00PM. You should allow plenty of time in case there is an issue getting off the ship. There are a few rare issues that could delay you getting off the ship. One is Customs and Immigration. Ships are not cleared to disembark passengers until certain conditions are met. It has happened where immigration has made unannounced crew inspections and every crewmember has had to pass inspection before passengers are allowed off the ship. This can delay disembarkation by 1-3 hours. Weather can also play a role in what time cruise ships disembark. Again this is rare but it has happened where the port has been closed due to fog. It can take a few hours for the fog to burn off. You should play it safe and schedule your return flights later in the day. If you miss your flight it can be very hard to find another flight home especially on cruise days.

Do cruise ships have spas and fitness centers?

Yes! Most new cruise ships have spas that rival many of the best land based spas. You can get a simple massage to a full body treatment. Most cruise ships also have very good fitness centers onboard. The new ships have much of the latest technology in fitness and spa treatments.

Are cruise ships safe?

Yes! Cruise lines have very in depth safety programs. If a cruise ship ports in a U.S port it is subject to strict coast guard safety regulations and inspections. When you arrive onboard you will go thru a muster (safety drill) where you will learn about ship safety.

What about the Noro or Norwalk virus?

Despite some bad press lately this is a fairly uncommon thing on cruise ships. Noro or Norwalk virus is basically the stomach flu. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans contract the Noro or Norwalk virus each year on land. The virus is highly contagious so if it makes its way into the closed atmosphere of a cruise ship it can spread quickly. The virus is usually contracted by a passenger on land and brought on board by unsuspecting passengers. Symptoms do not start appearing for 24-48 hours after the virus is contracted. Cruise lines have specific programs to help combat the spread of this virus. The main thing is promoting a clean environment. Some cruise lines will make every passenger wash their hands with hand sanitizer before boarding the ship. Hand sanitizer is also available at the entrance of each restaurant and buffet line. The Noro or Norwalk virus is most often spread by hand contact. If a passenger does contract the virus they will be quarantined to their room until the symptoms pass. Then the room will be disinfected.

The CDC also has programs to help cruise ships fight the virus. The main program is called CDC green sheets. Every ship that docks in a us port is required to go through regular health and cleanliness inspections. You can view your ship green sheet on the CDC web site.

 

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