Your Questions Answered

Whether a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first sea vacation the Cruise Saver Travel team have a huge wealth of expertise so are extremely well qualified to answer any questions you have. Below is a list of frequently asked questions which you may find helpful.

What is included in my cruise fare? Your cruise fare will include shipboard accommodation, meals and entertainment while aboard the ship. Some cruise lines offering an inclusive price include gratuities, drinks and excursions as well.

What is not included in my cruise price? The price will not include organised shore excursions, soft drinks or alcoholic beverages (unless an 'All inclusive' package is purchased), gratuities (Included in the cost on some cruise lines - ask for details), medical services, photographs, expenditure in the casino, spa and beauty treatments or other miscellaneous items you have purchase on board.

What is the difference between an inside and outside cabin? An outside cabin will have a window or porthole and is considered an "Ocean View" room. An inside cabin is without any natural daylight but does have ample lighting, ventilation and air conditioning.

Are the cruise itineraries subject to change? All cruise itineraries are subject to change. For all cruise lines priority is for their guests safety so on rare occasions weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances may cause a change to the original itinerary. In these circumstances, the cruise line staff will do everything within their power to visit an alternate port of call.

Is cruising right for honeymooners? Cruising offers an atmosphere that's just right for romance... cosy dinners for two, strolling on deck at sunset, dancing the night away (even under the stars). Some cruise lines offer special programs for performing a marriage ceremony or renewing your marriage vows – ask for details.

Are there non-smoking areas? Virtually all ships have smoking and non-smoking sections in the public rooms. In fact, many dining rooms, and even some entire ships, are now totally smoke-free, reflecting passenger requests.

Will I get bored or feel confined? It's not likely. Most ships are a good size and it usually takes a couple of days to fully explore the different options available on board. You can rest by the poolside, join a dance class or sports activity, see a movie, or try your luck in a casino - the options are endless! In addition to the activities onboard, you also have the opportunity to explore new and exciting ports of call.

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 if I have medication? Please carry any medication in its original bottle. It is recommended that medications be carried in your hand luggage so will be available when needed because checked luggage may not be accessible at all times. If you are using any prescription drugs, vitamins, or other medication on a regular basis, you should bring an adequate supply since they may not be readily available aboard the ship or in ports of call. Commonly used medications may be purchased at the office of the ship's doctor.

Are there laundry services aboard ship? Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and 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.

Is there parking available at the port? There is parking at major ports. Please ask for details.

How do I get to the ship? For cruises sailing from the UK some cruise lines offer regional coach transfer or regional air connections – ask for details and prices. In the case of fly cruises, some cruise lines offer regional flights & overnight airport hotel option – ask for details & costs. If your airfare is through the cruise line, a representative from the cruise line will meet you by the baggage claim. They will escort you to the transfer shuttle that goes from the airport to the port and back again after the cruise. Most cruise lines offer these services for an additional cost to passengers providing their own airfare.

How much luggage can I bring? For cruises leaving the UK you can take as much luggage as you like as long as it can comfortable fit in your cabin. For handling purposes please ensure that each item does not weigh more than 30 kg. For fly cruises luggage will be restricted to the airline requirements. Please check at the time of booking as airline luggage allowances do tend to change.

Can I bring visitors on the ship? For safety and security reasons, no visitors will be allowed on board the ship.

Will I get seasick? Seasickness is not common on larger cruise ships. Larger ships are equipped with stabilizers designed to minimize the feeling of movement. If you should feel queasy, medicine is available from your cabin steward or the ship's doctor. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consider consulting your doctor prior to departure.

Will I need a tuxedo? Many cruise lines now feature a more relaxed and casual approach to dress throughout the cruise - while on others, 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. Plus, many ships offer tuxedo rental services.

How do I pay for onboard purchases? Most ships operate 'cash free', meaning that no money changes hands during the cruise. For your convenience, an account will be set up for you when you board the ship and all purchases such as drinks, shore excursions and purchases from the ships shops will be billed automatically to your on board account. At the end of the cruise you can pay your final bill by credit card, cash or by cashing Traveller's cheques. If you have a credit card, an imprint can be taken when you check-in, allowing a smooth departure when you leave the ship. Most cruise ships also offer currency exchange on-board.

What about tipping? It is customary, on the majority of ships, to offer tips to staff who you feel have given you excellent service and attention, as a way of saying 'Thank you'. Each cruise line varies the suggested amount but you will be given a guideline by the operator, either before you travel or in your cabin. Some cruise lines provide a facility whereby you can include gratuities at the time of booking. You can however request at the time of bookings to have the gratuities deducted from the cruise fare staement, leaving you to manage gratuities at the end f the cruise. A 15% gratuity is added to most bar and wine bills and this will be shown on your onboard account.

What are my dining options? Most cruise lines offer both a Main Seating and Late Seating in the main dining room. Dining preferences may be requested at the time of the booking, however no requests are guaranteed. Your seating and table assignment will be confirmed at embarkation. Either seating will allow you to see all shows and experience everything your cruise has to offer. As an alternative to traditional seating, some cruise lines now offer "freestyle" dining. This option provides guests with the flexibility to dine when they wish. You may also choose your dinner companions and request specific tables rather than being assigned to a particular time and table for the duration of the cruise. For your convenience, in addition to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and midnight buffets, many ships also offer complimentary room service. Low-fat and vegetarian options are often available. Some cruise lines also offer speciality restaurants. A cover charge normally applies and it is recommended that once on board you make a reservation as these venues are every popular.

Can singles have fun on a cruise? Cruising is ideal for people travelling alone, because it's so easy to meet other people. In fact, most ships have parties for singles - early on, so you can get to know people right away. Many ships even offer social hosts who can be dance partners, dinner companions or a fourth at cards. Most ships also have single cabins as well as single rates for double cabins. Some cruise lines offer a share facility in a twin cabin so you can obtain the per person/double occupancy rate.

What if I'm on a special diet? Special meals are available to accommodate different dietary needs. Requests should be made at the time of booking.

What if I am celebrating my anniversary/birthday? If you are celebrating a special occasion on the ship, we can add that information to your reservation in advance or you can let the maitre'd know. Cruise lines love to celebrate with you.

Do I have to attend a lifeboat drill? Everyone on board the ship is required to attend a compulsory safety drill comply with Coast Guard and international safety regulations.

Do I have to participate in the cruise line's organized activities? Your activities are all up to you. You can try everything or just lounge by the pool - the choice is yours!

Do cruise lines have activities for kids? As more and more families begin to cruise, most cruise lines have developed supervised programs for kids. These programmes are supervised by qualified staff and are designed to give your kids a chance to go swimming, play sports, watch movies and get to know other kids on the ship, while giving you an opportunity for some worry free rest and relaxation. Some children may be too young to participate in certain programmes.

What's available to do in the evenings? Nightly activities are just as exciting as during the day. Test your luck in the casinos, watch a West End style show, dance to the small hours in the nightclub, enjoy a quite drink, or maybe stay up to watch a breathtaking sunrise over the sea - the choice is endless.

Can we stay in touch with the outside? Very easily. Most ships have televisions in the rooms plus a daily newsletter with headlines. There are usually phones in the rooms or you can have the ship's radio operator contact the mainland for you. Also, many ships have 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. Some ships offer a mobile connection facility

Are the casinos and duty free shops open all day? They are open while you are at sea, however, they will remain closed while the ship is in port.

How will I know what activities are happening on the ship? A daily programme will be delivered to your stateroom by your cabin steward. This will provide a schedule of event, with locations and times.

How do I pay for purchases in port? Most shops accept major credit cards and traveller's cheques. Some ships and ports of call have ATMs; however, they may not always be in service and fees are involved.

What is there to do in port? There is something ashore for everyone. Each port offers a unique experience where you can explore on your own, book an organised shore excursion from the cruise line, go shopping, relax on the beach or take in some historical sites.

Do I have to get off the ship at every port of call? Not if you don't want to. You are more than welcome to stay on the ship and relax by the pool or participate in some of the organised activities.