Q. What is included in my cruise fare?
Accommodation, all main meals, entertainment and the use of the ships many facilities such as swimming pools, spas, gym, waterslides, kid’s programmes etc.
Q. What do I wear on board?
Depending on your destination, weather appropriate, comfortable, casual clothes are generally suitable during the day. In the evening, smart casual clothing is generally required in public areas, including the restaurants. Some nights on the ship are themed, so be sure to check out the cruise line website for typical theme nights. Generally, one night will be a gala or formal night where cocktail attire is recommended.
Q. What is the currency on board?
The currency used on board will depend on the cruise line and sailing itinerary. Your consultant will be able to tell you at the time you make a booking.
Q. I get sea sick, is there anything that will help me with this?
Cruise ships have stabilizers which help minimize with the motion of a cruise ship in the ocean. It is also recommended that you take motion sickness tablets or patches or other travel sickness aides such as anti-nausea wrist bands with you. If you still experience motion sickness, the on board doctor will be able to assist.
Q. Do I have to tip on board?
Many cruise lines sailing locally in Australia/New Zealand include gratuities in your price of your cruise fare. When not included in the fare, suggested gratuities will be added to your onboard account. It is customary to tip staff to thank them for their excellent service on board. Please ask your consultant if gratuities are already included in your cruise fare, or if the suggested gratuities are charged on board.
Q. Do I need Travel Insurance for my cruise?
Definitely! You should not assume 'it won't happen to me' - accidents or illness can happen to anyone. We also recommend taking out your insurance at the time you booking your cruise, this will ensure cover from the point you pay a deposit to the point you arrive home. Or consider taking out an annual policy if you have multiple trips planned during the course of the year.
Q. Are there Visas and vaccinations required for my cruise?
We always recommend enquiring about visa, vaccination or other health requirements for your travel destinations when booking your cruise. Having the appropriate visas and health qualifications for every country visited on the itinerary are the responsibility of each cruise passenger. Please spend some time researching these requirements given your unique circumstances. Visa requirements can be found online at www.passports.gov.au. or if you are a New Zealand citizen refer to www.passports.govt.nz.
Q. I have to fly to a city to pick up my cruise, what time should I arrive prior to the cruise?
We highly recommend arriving in your embarkation port city the day prior to your cruise departure. This will ensure ample time so that you do not miss your cruise due to any unforeseen flight changes, weather issues or baggage delays. When flying home after your cruise, ensure your flight departs no earlier than 5 hours after your cruise arrives back in port. Also ensure you double check your arrival/departure times of your flights a day before you depart as airlines can change times or dates of the flights.
Q. I need medication on board, can I take this with me?
All medical conditions and medication needs requiring special attention should be advised at the time of making your booking. It is recommended that you carry your medications on board with you and are advised to take a few extra days' supply, in case of any unforeseen delays. There is also a doctor on board if any medical attention is needed.
Q. When will I receive my cruise tickets/documents?
Once your booking is complete and you receive a cruise line booking reference from your consultant, you should be able to log into the cruise line website, create an account and complete your cruise registration online. Through this online portal you will be able to personalise your cruise by adding on dining reservations, shore excursions, spa appointments, etc. Most cruise lines will provide you with electronic documents and baggage tags that you can download and save or print. Your final documents should be available when your registration is complete prior to departure as determined by the individual cruise line. A few luxury and expedition cruise lines may send documents directly to you a few weeks prior to departure.
Q. How do I find out about shore tours available in each port?
Once you receive a cruise line booking reference from your consultant, you should be able to log into the cruise line website to create an account and complete your cruise registration. From here you can view all the shore excursions that are available on your cruise and start planning to make the most of your cruise holiday. Many cruise lines allow you to pre-book these tours online. This is a great way to ensure you don’t miss out on any of the “must-do” experiences on your trip!
