|
Is Cruising affordable and a
good vacation value?
Cruising is the best vacation
value! There are cruise vacations to suit every budget. Your cruise fare
includes all meals, your cabin, onboard daytime activities, nighttime parties
and entertainment. 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 shore excursions, and personal services such as massage
or hairstyling, though some cruises include excursions prices also.)
How long are cruises?
As long or as short as you want it
to be.
Where can I go?
You can go wherever you want.
Cruises visit over 1,800 ports worldwide and practically every destination
accessible by water.
How do I book a cruise?
By contacting Cruise Direct Online
by e-mail or phone, you can expect one of our friendly professionals to help you
pick the cruise that fits your vacation schedule, tastes and budget.
Can I book on short notice?
Even the most popular cruises
sometimes have space available because of late cancellations. So, have one of
our Cruise Travel Advisors check for you. But to get exactly the ship, cabin,
and sailing date you want, you should plan and book early. can often get early
booking discounts for customers who plan ahead.
Are all ships and cruises
fairly similar?
Far from it. Cruise ships range
from under 200 feet to over 1,000 feet long. You can sail with fewer than 100
fellow passengers or over 2,600. Experience atmospheres ranging from casual to
formal, classically simple to ultra-deluxe. You can even choose between
traditional propeller-driven vessels or sail-assisted cruise ships.
What's an air/sea cruise?
A fly/cruise or an air/sea cruise
vacation package includes either free or much reduced airfare along with your
cruise ticket. These money-saving options are available from most major North
American cities and include transfers between the airport and ship as well as
baggage handling.
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 lines will do everything
in their power to visit an alternate port of call.
Do I need a passport?
This depends on the type of cruise
and your destination. You will need some proof of citizenship. You'll receive
complete information on required documents well in advance of your departure.
Are there different classes of
service?
Today's cruise ships are
"one-class." Everyone on board 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 on board.
When can I board the ship?
Embarkation normally begins
approximately 4 hours prior to departure. Passengers must be on board no later
than 30 minutes prior to sailing.
What is the "Life Boat" drill,
and do I have to go?
Everyone onboard is required to be
in attendance for a compulsory safety drill before departure to comply with
Coast Guard and international safety regulations.
Will I get bored? Feel
Confined?
Hardly! Being at sea gives you a
feeling of total freedom that no land-based resort can offer. There's plenty of
room. And it will probably take you two or three days just to discover
everything that's on board. Plus, you get the added adventure of exploring many
exciting ports of call.
Cruise ships are like floating
resorts with all the choices fine resorts have to offer. You can 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, if you're more active, join in exercise classes,
dance classes, and sports contests. Practice your tennis stroke of golf swing,
or shoot some baskets. Swim, stretch out in the sauna or work out in the gym.
You can also see a feature film, attend a lecture by renowned experts, play
backgammon or bridge. ....and that's just when you're on board!
What can I do in port?
So much you'll have a hard time
choosing! You can explore on your own or take a guided tour. Search ancient
ruins or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, a bicycle
down the side of a 10,000 foot volcano, or a horse across miles of hills and
beaches. Climb a waterfall or pyramid. Follow the footsteps of history or the
wake of a water-skiing boat. If there's still time, play golf or tennis. Learn
how to windsurf. Sun and swim at some of the world's best beaches. Catch a
record Marlin. Sail, snorkel, or scuba dive. Take a cable car to the top of a
mountain. Explore dark catacombs. In short, cruising is the perfect way to
sample a number of new destinations and try all the things you've ever dreamed
of doing, while never having to pack and unpack!
Do I have to participate in the
activities?
On a cruise, you do what you want,
when you want. You can do everything or do absolutely nothing. It's your
vacation!
Do cruise lines welcome
families with kids?
More and more cruise vacations are
booked by families with children. Most cruise lines provide plenty of
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 that children adapt to
shipboard life with ease, and you won't have to wonder what they're up to every
minute. The youth counselors will help keep them busy and entertained. Ships
even offer youth camps that cater to all ages, from toddlers to teens. Best of
all, children generally travel at a substantially reduced rate.
What's there to do at night?
At night, life aboard a cruise
ship really turns on. There's dancing, live entertainment, nightclubs and
lounges, feature films, and parties with all your new friends. Most ships also
have casinos. What' more, there are many special events like the Captain's
Cocktail Party. Passenger Talent Night, and the Masquerade Parade.
Is there a charge for
entertainment?
Never. On a cruise vacation, the
entertainment is on the house. There's no cover, minimum, or charge for an
admission ticket. The shows are live, films first-rate and all included in your
cruise fare.
Is it easy to meet people?
A cruise ship is a great place to
make new friends. The atmosphere is cordial and relaxed. And, you'll have all
kinds of things in common to talk about at dinner, 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.
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 now...all ages...from all walks of life...singles, couples
and families. Just ask your agent for advice on the best ship for you, based on
your tastes and lifestyle.
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. As the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want
to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps
even a dinner jacket or gown.
What about electrical
appliances?
Electric razors and hairdryers can
be brought with you. Most staterooms are equipped with 110 volts AC and are
capable of handling all normal appliances. Some appliances may require the use
of an adapter.
What about my medication?
Please carry all medication in its
original bottles. It is recommended that medications be carried in your pocket
or purse so that they 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 since they may not be readily available either aboard ship or in ports of
call. Commonly used medications 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. But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. Even on
the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest
occasions. If you do want to dress to the nines, many ships offer tuxedo
rental services.
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 get to know people 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.
Can I use my hair dryer or
shaver?
Most ships have 110-volt outlets
in the staterooms. Call us to be sure. Most ships even feature hairdryers in
your cabin.
What are different meal
seatings?
Some ships' dining rooms can
accommodate all passengers in one "seating." But most ships have two seatings,
which differ only by time. To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine
early or late - then have your travel agent at Cruise Direct Online request your
preference when you book your cruise. Whichever seating you choose, remember
that one of the best ways to make new friends is to ask for a large table. In
addition, some ships offer alternative dining options, such as Italian, Chinese,
Japanese or Southwestern themed restaurants, separate from the main dining room.
Some also offer some form of "freestyle" dining where you can pick where, when
and with whom you wish to dine.
Is cruise ships 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. But,
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. Best of all, the one
thing you'll never see on a cruise ship menu is a price!
Can I get a special diet?
Most ships can accommodate
salt-free, low-carbohydrate, Kosher, or other diet preferences. However, this
request must be made in advance, so be sure to advise your travel agent at Trip
Quest of this requirement when you book your cruise.
What if I don't like my
tablemates?
Rarely is this 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.
Are there non-smoking areas?
Today, virtually all ships have
smoking and non-smoking tables and/or sections in the dining rooms and lounges.
In fact, many cruise ship dining rooms, and even some entire ships, are now
totally smoke-free, reflecting passenger requests.
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). Most lines
provided 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 wedding vows.
We're honeymooners. Should I
book this trip under my married name or my maiden name?
You may reserve your cruise in
your maiden name and carry Proof of Citizenship that reflects your maiden name.
Or, you may reserve your cruise in your married name and carry Proof of
Citizenship that reflects your married name. Please note that if you are
carrying several types of identification reflecting two different names, it is
suggested that you also carry a copy of your marriage certificate to document
your name change.
Can we stay in touch with the
outside world?
Quite easily. Most ships have a
daily newsletter with news, headlines, selected stock quotes and sports
scores. Staterooms on many ships are equipped with televisions. While most
ships now have telephones in passenger cabins, you can also call someone on
shore through the ship's radio operator while at sea. And, you can make phone
calls from most ports. In addition, most ships have fax capabilities.
What about tipping?
Tipping is a matter of individual
preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about $2.50 to $3.00 per
person per day for your room steward and dining room waiter, and about half that
amount for your busboy. (A few cruise lines included tipping in the price and
will so inform you.) Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special
services at your discretion.
Are there medical services
onboard?
Virtually every cruise ship
(except for some small vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully-equipped
medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency.
Are there laundry services
aboard ship?
Almost all cruise ship shave
laundry facilities and a great many provide dry-cleaning services. There is,
however, an additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning
services. Many ships also have self-service launderettes.
Do cruise lines accept group
bookings?
Most lines will work with
groups-often at reduced rates-depending on how many people are involved.
Policies vary from company to company and sometimes during certain times of the
year. Just call your travel agent for details.
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, contact our group sales department to coordinate schedules
and arrange for any catering needs. Your ship may also be able to offer
audio-visual equipment.
Can I extend my cruise
vacation?
Your travel agent can arrange pre-
or post-cruise 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.
Is motion discomfort a problem?
Rarely. Popular cruise
itineraries boast some of the calmest waters in the world. In addition,
stabilizers on modern ships, advanced availability of accurate weather
information, and development of effective preventative medications have, for the
most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort.
Where can I find directions to
the pier if I am providing my own transportation?
Click here for pier directions and general information.
It sounds too good to be true!
Is it?
The one major complaint we hear
over and over again is that cruises end far too soon! Beyond that, it's hard to
find any negatives. All you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying your
vacation. Most importantly, every crew and staff member on board is dedicated
to making your cruise the best vacation of your life (until you top it with your
next cruise!)
Who should I see if I have
questions that haven't been answered?
Travel Agents are only too happy
to discuss all the available options for your cruise vacation.
|
