FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Cruise Basics
- What is a stateroom category?
- What is the difference between an outside and an inside stateroom?
- Are there different classes of service?
- What is an upgrade?
- What is shipboard credit?
- What is a cruise tour?
- What Proof of Citizenship do I need for my vacation? Do I need a passport?
- How do I get a passport?
- What if I have to cancel?
- Why should I book with your company?
Group Cruise Basics
- How many staterooms make a group?
- Can I reserve all of my group's staterooms next to each other?
- Do I have to reserve all of my group's staterooms next to each other?
- Who is a Group Leader?
- Do groups get special deals?
- How could I sail for free?
- Do groups have the same prices and bonus offers as regular individual bookings?
- Does everyone in the group have to do everything together?
Itinerary Basics
- What's the best time to take a cruise?
- When is the most affordable time to take a cruise?
- When is Hurricane Season?
- Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
Life Onboard
- Will I get seasick?
- When can I board the ship?
- Can I bring visitors on the ship?
- Can we stay in touch with the outside?
- What are my dining options?
- I'm on a special diet. Can I get special meals on board?
- What if I am celebrating my birthday/anniversary?
- Will I get bored or feel confined?
- Are the casinos and shops open all day?
- Do cruise lines have activities for kids?
- Do they have babysitting on board?
- What about the evenings?
- Will I need a tuxedo?
- How will I know what activities are happening aboard the ship?
- Do I have to participate in the cruise line's organized activities?
- What is an assembly drill, and do I have to go?
Life In Port
- What is a port?
- What are shore excursions?
- How do I pay for purchases in port?
- What can I do in port?
- Do I have to get off of the ship at each port of call?
- Is it better to purchase shore excursions in advance?
Payments & Insurance
- What does my cruise price include?
- What does my cruise price not include?
- How do I pay for onboard purchases?
- How do I pay for purchases in port?
- What are the tipping guidelines?
- When is the most affordable time to take a cruise?
- Should I purchase the cruise line's Air/Sea Package
- When will I get my Air Schedule? Can I pick my own flights?
- Should I buy travel protection?
- What if I have to cancel?
Before You Go
- How do I get to the ship?
- Can I park at the pier?
- When will I receive my cruise documents?
- What Proof of Citizenship do I need for my vacation? Do I need a passport?
- What is the United States Border Security Act? How do I need to prepare?
- Do they have babysitting on board?
- What about my medication?
- Will I need a tuxedo?
- What about electrical appliances?
- What should I bring?
Cruise Basics
What is a stateroom category?
A group of staterooms that are assigned the same rank because of their size, amenities, deck level, and location. Prices vary according to category.
What is the difference between an outside and an inside stateroom?
An outside stateroom or "Oceanview" will have a window or porthole. An inside or "No View" stateroom will have artwork or draperies on the walls.
Are there different classes of service?
Today's cruise ships are "one class." Everyone on board can use all of the ship's facilities.
What is an upgrade?
When you receive a better stateroom category than you pay for.
What is shipboard credit?
A credit that is posted to your account upon embarkation. It's yours to spend at the spa, in the boutiques, or almost anywhere onboard.
What is a cruise tour?
A cruise combined with a land vacation. The land portion may consist of anything from a hotel stay before or after the cruise to a fully escorted tour and airfare.
What Proof of Citizenship do I need for my vacation? Do I need a passport?
The U.S. Department of State and Homeland Security has announced that U.S. Citizens will soon be required to present a valid passport to exit or re-enter the United States. The requirement will be implemented in stages, as follows: December 31, 2005: U.S. citizens will now be required to present a valid U.S. passport for all air and sea travel to or from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America. December 31, 2006: U.S. citizens will now be required to present a valid U.S. passport for all air and sea travel to or from Mexico and Canada. December 31, 2007: U.S. citizens will now be required to present a valid U.S. passport for all air, sea and land border crossings. Please keep in mind that you will need to allow 6-8 weeks for your passport to be processed. For further details regarding the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, as well as further information regarding obtaining a passport, please consult: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. Non-U.S. citizens should contact the consulates or embassies of the countries visited regarding the proper documentation necessary for travel. We recommend all travelers confirm the entry requirements for all countries prior to departure. The following website may assist you in verifying the required documentation for travel: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1229.html. Please be advised that knowing, securing and bringing the required identification is solely the responsibility of the passengers. We are unable to provide refunds for clients who do not possess the necessary documentation.
How do I get a passport?
You may apply for a passport at your local post office. Many cities also have local passport offices. For further information regarding obtaining a passport, please consult: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. Please keep in mind that you will need to allow 6-8 weeks for your passport to be processed.
What if I have to cancel?
Cancellation policies vary between cruise lines. When you book your cruise, you will be advised of the cancellation policy applicable to your cruise. Our Customer Service Department is always available to answer any questions regarding these policies. It is the sole responsibility of the passenger to be familiar with the penalties assessed for cancellation. In addition to any fees assessed by the cruise line, we will apply a $75.00 administrative fee for all cancellations. To protect yourself from penalties for canceling due to medical reasons, we highly advise that you purchase Travel Protection, as described above.
Why should I book with your company?
There are a number of reasons to book with us. Among them: fast, courteous, service with the best rates in the country.
Group Cruise Basics
How many staterooms make a group?
A group is considered six or more staterooms booked on the same sailing. You must make your reservations over the phone with one of our group cruise consultants.
Can I reserve all of my group's staterooms next to each other?
Yes, if there is availability. Your can choose which categories, deck, and stateroom numbers you want. Remember — the bigger your group, the earlier you should book your group to ensure the widest selection.
Do I have to reserve all of my group's staterooms next to each other?
No. If you'd like to reserve staterooms all across the ship on different decks, there will almost certainly be enough availability to do so. But if you have strong preferences about stateroom categories or locations, then it's best to book a few months in advance to ensure the widest selection.
Who is a Group Leader?
YOU ARE! As the group leader, you'll coordinate all the travel needs of the group members with one of our group cruise consultants. You'll also lead the recruitment of group members.
Do groups get special deals?
About 80% of groups at sea receive special amenity points, called "tour credits". These exclusive onboard extras vary by group size, fleet, and each particular sailing. Tour credits are normally shipboard credits — often valid toward the purchase of spa services, shore excursions, casino credits, and alcoholic beverages — or stateroom gifts like a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates, a basket of fresh flowers, or complimentary gratuities. Each group signs a unique booking contract that includes unique terms and conditions for any available bonus offers and tour credits. We use our superior cruise line relationships to negotiate the absolute best prices and special amenities available for each group. Usually, the bigger the group, the more tour credits you'll enjoy. Ask your group cruise consultant for details.
How could I sail for free?
This special offer varies by group size, fleet, and each sailing — not all groups will be eligible. A minimum number of staterooms must be booked as a group via telephone to qualify. The cost of non-commissionable fares, U.S. Government Taxes and Fees, and airfare is not included, however the cruise fare is absolutely free to the group leader of an eligible group. Each group signs a unique booking contract that includes unique terms and conditions for any available bonus offers, tour credits, and special deals such as the sail-for-free offer. We use our superior cruise line relationships to negotiate the absolute best prices and special amenities available for each group. In general, the more staterooms reserved in your group, the more likely you'll be eligible. The offer is capacity-controlled, subject to change, and may be withdrawn at any time. Ask your group cruise consultant for details.
Do groups have the same prices and bonus offers as regular individual bookings?
Not necessarily. Each group signs a unique booking contract that includes terms and conditions for any available bonus offers, tour credits, and special deals such as the sail-for-free offer. Prices and offers advertised on our website and in our various marketing and promotional pieces may not be valid for group cruise bookings. Your group cruise consultant will provide you with your group's unique quote (and offers, if applicable).
Does everyone in the group have to do everything together?
No. Cruising with a group provides unmatched flexibility. There's a dining option for every taste and an activity for every age, interest, and lifestyle. Onboard or ashore, your group members are free to split up and find fun in smaller groups. Of course, if your group wants to stick together, that's easy enough, too! For dining all together in restaurants with table service, be sure to give the venue advance notice if you have a large group. It might also be possible to reserve an entire restaurant for a couple of hours ... ask your group cruise consultant for details.
Itinerary Basics
What's the best time to take a cruise?
Anytime is the best time to take a cruise, but it also depends on where you'd like to go. The Caribbean is fantastic year round; however, some of the more exotic destinations are seasonal. For example, you can only cruise to Alaska between May and September; to Europe between April and November; to Bermuda, between April and October; the Panama Canal, between September and April. So you see, no matter what time of year it is, it's a perfect time to cruise.
When is the most affordable time to take a cruise?
If you are looking for the very least expensive time to take a cruise, then consider sailing between the end of August and the sailing before Christmas, but not over Christmas or Thanksgiving. Most families have children who are back in school, folks begin saving vacation time for holiday travel, and everyone is saving money for the holiday season. If you're looking for a senior citizen rate, a regional promotion, a past passenger promotion, or a last minute deal, you'll likely find it during this period (not Winter, Spring, or Summer).
When is Hurricane Season?
Officially, the U.S. National Hurricane Service states that hurricane season starts on June 1 and ends November 30th. That's 6 months of the year. However, history has shown us the greatest concentration of hurricane and tropical storm activity tends to be between late August and mid-October. Does this mean you shouldn't cruise during September? Not at all. Some of your best rates are during this period and your Captain would never jeopardize your safety. Cruise ships are certainly safer than land-locked Caribbean Islands during a hurricane. With speeds of 20 to 22 knots, cruise ships can outrun a 14-knot hurricane. Today's ships are equipped with state-of-the-art weather equipment that keeps the Captain and his crew fully aware of a storm's position and if he feels that there is any danger to his passengers, crew, or his vessel, he can simply "move" this floating resort to safer waters.
Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
Yes, all cruise itineraries are subject to change. Guest safety is the number one priority for the cruise lines. On rare occasions, weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances require a change in itinerary. In these situations, the cruise line staff will do everything in their power to visit an alternate port of call.
Life Onboard
Will I get seasick?
Seasickness is rare on larger cruise ships because they are equipped with stabilizers that are designed to minimize the feeling of movement. If you should feel queasy, medicine is available from your stateroom steward or the ship's doctor. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consult your physician prior to travel.
When can I board the ship?
Embarkation normally begins approximately 4 hours prior to departure. Passengers must be aboard no later than 30 minutes prior to sailing.
Can I bring visitors on the ship?
For safety and security reasons, no visitors are allowed on board.
Can we stay in touch with the outside?
Quite easily. Most ships have televisions in the rooms plus a daily newsletter with headlines. There are either phones in the rooms or you can have the ship's radio operator contact the mainland for you. Also many ships offer fax capabilities or Internet lounges. There are charges to contact the mainland in any form. Please check with the purser to find out exact amounts.
What are my dining options?
Most cruise lines offer two seatings for the main dining room: Main Seating and Late Seating. Dining preferences may be requested at the time of the booking. No requests are guaranteed. Your seating and table assignment will be confirmed at embarkation. Either seating will allow you to see all the shows and experience everything your cruise has to offer. For your convenience, in addition to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and midnight buffets, many ships also offer complimentary room service. Low-fat and vegetarian entrees are often offered at lunch and dinner. In addition to the traditional seatings, some cruise lines now offer "freestyle" dining. This provides guests with the flexibility to dine when they wish. You may also choose your dinner companions and request specific table sites rather than being assigned to a particular time and table for the duration of the cruise.
I'm on a special diet. Can I get special meals on board?
Low-sodium meals, kosher meals, and certain other diet-restricted meals will be available. Dietary requests should be made at the time of booking.
What if I am celebrating my birthday/anniversary?
If you'd like to celebrate an anniversary or birthday on the ship, we can add that to your reservation in advance or you can let the maitre d' know. The cruise lines love to celebrate with you.
Will I get bored or feel confined?
Not likely. Cruise ships are like floating resorts and offer just as many options as a fine resort. It usually takes a couple of days to fully explore all the onboard possibilities. In addition, you have the opportunity to explore new and exciting ports of call. You can take time to yourself lying poolside on a deck chair or you can join a dance class or sports activity. Later, catch a movie or play backgammon. The choices are endless.
Are the casinos and shops open all day?
Shops and the casino are open while you are at sea; however, they will be closed while the ship is in port.
Do cruise lines have activities for kids?
More and more cruises are booked every day by families. Most cruise lines have supervised activities for the kids. Choose from swimming, sports, movies, and games. The cruise staff will keep them busy so you don't have to worry. Some children may be considered too young to participate in these programs.
Do they have babysitting on board?
Most contemporary cruise lines cater to families with children and almost always offer babysitting services; however, availability can depend on the destination and time of year. Cruise lines with limited facilities for children may not provide a children's program or babysitting services unless a certain number of children are onboard. Cruise lines that do not cater to children may not offer any babysitting services. Ask your Vacation Consultant to check with the cruise line about the policy in place for the specific cruise you are considering. Most contemporary cruise lines offer babysitting in a group-style format in the children's room. These are conducted by the Children's Program Counselors. Toddlers and older children often have playtime before retiring to individual, sheet-covered mats while watching videos with the other children. Infants are rocked and placed in individual cribs. Some cruise lines offer this for free while others may charge a small fee. Babysitting services are offered during certain evening hours when the children's program is not in operation, but generally not on the first or the last night of the cruise. Babysitting during daytime hours is usually offered only while at sea, but a few may have more flexible hours.
What about the evenings?
The evenings are just as exciting as the days. From the casinos, to the nightclub, to the entertainment, to passenger talent shows, there is always something going on. If you are a real night owl, you may even have a chance to see a sunrise at sea.
Will I need a tuxedo?
On some cruises, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun. However, don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. If you do want to dress to the nines, many ships offer tuxedo rental services. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for even the dressiest occasions.
How will I know what activities are happening aboard the ship?
Your stateroom steward will leave a news update in your stateroom that will provide a schedule of events for the following day. This update will tell you where and when everything is happening.
Do I have to participate in the cruise line's organized activities?
On a cruise, the choice is yours. You may do what you want. You can do it all or just relax by the pool.
What is an assembly drill, and do I have to go?
These are commonly referred to as lifeboat drills. Everyone on board the ship is required to be in attendance for a compulsory safety drill before departure to comply with Coast Guard and international safety regulations.
Life In Port
What is a port?
A destination or city visited by a ship.
What are shore excursions?
An activity or tour in a port. You may book many popular shore excursions with us in advance, saving you time, money, and hassle while in port.
How do I pay for purchases in port?
Most shops accept major credit cards and traveler's checks. Some ships and ports of call have ATMs; however, they may not always be in service and fees are involved. It is not necessary to convert your money in advance.
What can I do in port?
There's lots to do depending on your preference. Each port of call offers a unique experience. You can explore on your own, take the cruise line's organized shore excursions, browse the many shops, relax at the beach, or take in some historical sites. There is truly something for everyone.
Do I have to get off of the ship at each port of call?
Absolutely not! You can relax at the pool or participate in one of the cruise line's organized activities. You can do anything you wish.
Is it better to purchase shore excursions in advance?
Yes. You'll save time, money, and hassle. Why wait in line to reserve your shore excursion? There's always a chance that the most popular shore excursions in the most popular ports will sell out. Don't risk disappointment — add them to your cruise package today!
Payments & Insurance
What does my cruise price include?
Your cruise includes shipboard accommodations, meals, and most entertainment aboard the vessel.
What does my cruise price not include?
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 onboard.
How do I pay for onboard purchases?
For your convenience, you may charge most of your purchases on board. A personal account will be set up when you board and purchases will be billed automatically to your major credit card. If you do not have a credit card, you may use a cash deposit. The amount of this deposit varies from cruise line to cruise line, usually ranging from $100 for the week to $100 per day. Traveler's checks may be cashed at the purser's desk to cover gratuities and to pay off your onboard account if you don't want the charges to be applied to your credit card.
How do I pay for purchases in port?
Most shops accept major credit cards and traveler's checks. Some ships and ports of call have ATMs; however, they may not always be in service and fees are involved. It is not necessary to convert your money in advance.
What are the tipping guidelines?
The following guidelines are suggestions only. Please remember to recognize outstanding service. Waiters and stateroom stewards, $3.00 per passenger per day; Assistant Waiters, $1.50 per passenger per day; Head Waiters, $2.50 per passenger per day. A 15% gratuity is added to all bar and wine checks.
When is the most affordable time to take a cruise?
If you are looking for the very least expensive time to take a cruise, then consider sailing between the end of August and the sailing before Christmas, but not over Christmas or Thanksgiving. Most families have children who are back in school, folks begin saving vacation time for holiday travel, and everyone is saving money for the holiday season. If you're looking for a senior citizen rate, a regional promotion, a past passenger promotion, or a last minute deal, you'll likely find it during this period (not Winter, Spring, or Summer).
Should I purchase the cruise line's Air/Sea Package?
A cruise line's air/sea package works very well for most passengers. Booking airfare with your cruise package provides two important advantages: 1. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the airline is responsible for your transportation to the next port of call. 2. Your airfare cost includes roundtrip transfers from the airport to/from the ship (except for all Princess cruises and select Holland America cruises).
When will I get my Air Schedule? Can I pick my own flights?
Cruise lines assign flights approximately 21 days prior to departure. Only then will you know your airline and flight schedule. You may request to customize your flights for an additional fee, plus any additional airfare costs. Without doing so, we are unable to guarantee seat assignments, non-stop flights, specific flight times, or a specific airline. In addition, we are unable to guarantee the same flight schedule if more than one cabin is booked together. If these are important to you, we recommend customizing your flights. In some cases, custom flight itineraries may not be an option.
Should I buy travel protection?
We recommend the purchase of travel insurance, as some things cannot be anticipated. Travel protection will cover you if you have to cancel due to injury, sickness, or death to you, a traveling companion, or family member. It does not cover unstable, preexisting medical conditions. It will cover you should a medical emergency occur on your trip. If you cancel your vacation for a covered reason, or incur medical expenses while on your trip, you would need to pay these fees in advance and then file a claim for reimbursement. If you have specific questions about the travel protection policy and its coverage, please contact Berkely Leisure Care at (800) 453-4059.
What if I have to cancel?
Cancellation policies vary between cruise lines. When you book your cruise, you will be advised of the cancellation policy applicable to your cruise. Our Customer Service Department is always available to answer any questions regarding these policies. It is the sole responsibility of the passenger to be familiar with the penalties assessed for cancellation. In addition to any fees assessed by the cruise line, we will apply a $75.00 administrative fee for all cancellations. To protect yourself from penalties for canceling due to medical reasons, we highly advise that you purchase Travel Protection, as described above.
Before You Go
How do I get to the ship?
If you have airfare booked through the cruise line, you will be met by a representative from the cruise line. The representative will meet you by the baggage claim and escort you to the transfer shuttle that travels from the airport to the pier and back again after the cruise. Most cruise lines offer these shuttles for an additional cost to passengers providing their own airfare.
Can I park at the pier?
Parking is available at the major piers. The exact rates and style of lot vary. You may want to check with www.seaportsinfo.com for valuable information pertaining to these details, as well as the piers.
When will I receive my cruise documents?
You should receive your travel documents no later than 7 days prior to your departure; in some cases, you will receive them sooner. If you have a cruise-only reservation, it may be necessary to pick your travel documents up the day of departure at the pier. For reservations that include airfare, you can make arrangements to set up an overnight delivery. The cruise line may arrange your reservation to be e-ticketed; in this instance, an email confirmation with your itinerary will be sent to you.
What Proof of Citizenship do I need for my vacation? Do I need a passport?
The U.S. Department of State and Homeland Security has announced that U.S. Citizens will soon be required to present a valid passport to exit or re-enter the United States. The requirement will be implemented in stages, as follows: December 31, 2005: U.S. citizens will now be required to present a valid U.S. passport for all air and sea travel to or from the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America. December 31, 2006: U.S. citizens will now be required to present a valid U.S. passport for all air and sea travel to or from Mexico and Canada. December 31, 2007: U.S. citizens will now be required to present a valid U.S. passport for all air, sea and land border crossings. Please keep in mind that you will need to allow 6-8 weeks for your passport to be processed. For further details regarding the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, as well as further information regarding obtaining a passport, please consult: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. Non-U.S. citizens should contact the consulates or embassies of the countries visited regarding the proper documentation necessary for travel. We recommend all travelers confirm the entry requirements for all countries prior to departure. The following website may assist you in verifying the required documentation for travel: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1229.html. Please be advised that knowing, securing and bringing the required identification is solely the responsibility of the passengers. We are unable to provide refunds for clients who do not possess the necessary documentation.
What is the United States Border Security Act? How do I need to prepare?
The United States Border Security Act is legislation, signed by President George Bush in May 2002, that requires all airlines and cruise lines to collect immigration information from each passenger prior to their cruise to or from the United States. As of March 1, 2003, all cruise lines must electronically report a manifest of all passengers on each cruise prior to their arriving at the port on embarkation day. This manifest includes personal information about each passenger including name, gender, birthday, residence, citizenship, and passport data. Any passengers who have not submitted all the required information before they get to their ship can expect very long delays at the pier. If a passenger does not supply any piece of required data, he may be denied boarding without a refund. The Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) will be standard for all airline and cruise reservations. Your cruise line will include additional information about APIS with your cruise documents. You'll be asked to send or fax this information prior to your cruise.
Do they have babysitting on board?
Most contemporary cruise lines cater to families with children and almost always offer babysitting services; however, availability can depend on the destination and time of year. Cruise lines with limited facilities for children may not provide a children's program or babysitting services unless a certain number of children are onboard. Cruise lines that do not cater to children may not offer any babysitting services. Ask your Vacation Consultant to check with the cruise line about the policy in place for the specific cruise you are considering. Most contemporary cruise lines offer babysitting in a group-style format in the children's room. These are conducted by the Children's Program Counselors. Toddlers and older children often have playtime before retiring to individual, sheet-covered mats while watching videos with the other children. Infants are rocked and placed in individual cribs. Some cruise lines offer this for free while others may charge a small fee. Babysitting services are offered during certain evening hours when the children's program is not in operation, but generally not on the first or the last night of the cruise. Babysitting during daytime hours is usually offered only while at sea, but a few may have more flexible hours.
What about my medication?
Please carry any medication in its original bottle. It is recommended that medication be carried in your pocket or purse so that it will be available when needed. Checked luggage may not be accessible at all times. If you're using any prescription drugs, vitamins or other medication on a regular basis, you should bring an adequate supply with you. Many types of medication may not be readily available either aboard ship or in ports of call. Commonly used medication may be purchased at the office of the ship's doctor.
Will I need a tuxedo?
On some cruises, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun. However, don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. If you do want to dress to the nines, many ships offer tuxedo rental services. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for even the dressiest occasions.
What about electrical appliances?
Electric razors and hair dryers can be brought with you. Staterooms for most cruise lines are equipped with 110 volts AC and are capable of handling all normal appliances. Some appliances may require the use of an adapter.
What should I bring?
Because a cruise offers such a high value and large variety of activities, you won't need to bring much beyond clothes and basic travel gear.
