First Time Cruisers Q&A
QUESTION: How do we know what length of cruise we should take?
ANSWER: There are a couple of things to consider when deciding on the length of your first cruise. First, decide on a budget and the maximum amount of time you can be gone for. Second, what itinerary interests you most? If you are interested in seeing the Virgin Islands, or Aruba you will need to plan on a seven night departure. Lastly, are you concerned that cruising may not be for you? Many people opt to take a shorter, three or four-night departure to the Bahamas or the Western Caribbean, to "test the waters" per say.
QUESTION: Which ship should we choose?
ANSWER: There is such an array of different ships and cruise lines to choose from today that trying to decide which one is right for you may seem like an impossible task. Cruise World travel counselors will steer you in the right direction when choosing the ship and cruise line that will suit you best, but here are a few things to consider when making that final decision:
What types of activities do you enjoy? Are you the type of person who likes to be invloved in lots of games and social activities? If so, Carnival Cruise Line will certainly satisfy. Are you looking for a cruise line that caters to your taste buds? Then try a Celebrity cruise, they've won numerous awards for their five-star cuisine. Taking the kids along? How about a Disney Cruise, they have something to entertain the entire family. Interested in that much needed romantic getaway? How about trying out one of Princess Cruise Line's "Love Boats." Or are you the type who likes to lounge in the library, view fine art, and be pampered from head to toe? If so then Holland America may be your choice. Whatever you enjoy your Cruise World travel counselor will help you choose a Cruise Line and ship to satisfy your every desire!
QUESTION: Who and how much should we tip?
ANSWER: Tipping is at your discretion on any cruise line. However, there are suggested guidelines to help. In general there are three very important people on board who you don't want to forget at the end of your cruise. Your room steward receives approximately $3.50 per guest per day. Your head waiter receives $3.50 per guest per day, and your assistant waiter receives $2.00 per guest per day. You may also want to consider anyone who wend above and beyond to assist you with any special requests you may have had. A 15% gratuity is automatically added to your bar bill so you need not worry about tipping when you order a drink. Many of the cruise lines are now automatically adding all of your gratuities to your ship board account and you may have them adjusted as you see fit with the persors desk on board. Some cruise lines also follow a "tipping not required" policy, howerver most people will tip at the end of their cruise simply to show thanks for the incredible service they received.
QUESTION: What type of documentation will I need to travel?
ANSWER: This all depends on the itinerary that you choose. Different countries have different requirements so be sure to check with your Cruise World travel counselor to verify that you have everything that is expected of you when you board.
QUESTION: What should I pack, is there a limit to the number of items I can bring?
ANSWER: There is no limit to the number of items you can bring with you on a cruise ship. However, if you are flying to your departure port the airlines do limit the number of pieces that you may bring so be sure to check their policy. As far as clothing is concerned, ask your travel counselor what the average temperature is for your destination and plan your clothing around it. Temperatures can vary drastically depending on your destination and the time of year you plan to travel. Be sure to bring along a windbreaker or raincoat, and a tote bag or fanny pack to carry your personal items. Be sure to bring a good pair of walking shoes, this is very important, especially on many shore excursions! Sunscreen is a must. Even when traveling in winter months, the sun can be deceiving. Don't forget your film, although film can be purchased on board it is best to bring your own, it tends to sell very quickly. Beach, pool and cabin towels are provided for you so you can leave yours at home if you like. Travelers checks are the most secure way to carry your money, although you will want to take some cash with you. Be sure to get any medications filled before you leave and let your travel counselor know of any special requirements you may have for storage of your medical supplies prior to departure.
QUESTION: When do we eat?
ANSWER: Today's cruise ships give you a myriad of choices when it comes to dining. If you want to experience traditional dining on board you can choose from two dining times and have a formal sit down meal in one of the ship's main dining rooms. For those passengers who prefer to take the more casual route, buffet style dining is available during every meal, dress as you please. Many of the new cruise ships also offer a formal, reservations only dining experience. Although there is a small fee to dine in these areas, the cuisine and service you receive is "first class" to say the least. 24 hour room service can also be ordered from a seperate menu, at no additional charge. You certainly won't go hungry, food is available to you whenever you like.
QUESTION: What is there to do during our days at sea?
ANSWER: Many people think, there isn't possibly enough to keep them occupied for an entire day on a cruise ship. This is certainly not the case, in fact there are so many things for you to do on board that you may not have time to DO IT ALL! One of the best things about the cruise experience is that you can do everything, or nothing, it's your choice. Just some of the activities available to you while you're "cruisin: include the following:
- Spa Treatments
- Exercise Facilities and Fitness Classes and Seminars
- Educational Seminars
- Pool Side Parties and Entertainment
- Workshops
- Casino Gambling
- Rock Climbing (on select ships)
- Ice Skating (on select ships)
- In Line Skating (on select ships)
- Passenger Talent Shows
- Internet Access
- Musical Entertainment
- Basketball (on select ships)
- Ping Pong
- Shuffle Boards
- Bingo
- Night Clubs
- Bars and Lounges
- Comedy Shows
And the list goes on and on. For more information ask your Cruise World Travel Counselor for a list of amenities available on your particular cruise ship.
QUESTION: What are shore excursions? Can we get around on our own?
ANSWER: Shore excursions are organized tours or activities that are available through the cruise line at an additional charge. These activities vary depending on your itinerary and can be anything from a simple bus tour, to climbing a waterfall, to helicopter rides. Shore excursions are a fun and safe way to explore a destination. Although shore excursions are a fabulous way to experience a local culture they certainly are not required to have a complete and fun filled adventure. In most ports of call the local shopping are, beaches, and attractions are within walking distance, or a short cab ride from your debarkation point. It is however, always a good idea to attend the port of call seminars offered by your cruise director the day before you arrive at each destination.
QUESTION: Do I need travel insurance?
ANSWER: Although travel insurance is optional, Cruise World highly recommends it to all of our customers. Travel coverage is offered to protect you against many unforseen circumstances that may arise before you depart and also when you are gone. Insurance costs vary depending on your age and the cost of your trip. Be sure to ask your Cruise World Travel Counselor for details.
Hopefully this guide helped in answering some of the questions that you may have as a first time cruiser. There is additional information available to you in your cruise brochure. Be sure to read all of the information on the pages located in the back of your brochure. As always, feel free to contact your Cruise World Travel Counselor for any other qustions you may have. We are here to ensure that your cruise experience is fun, relaxing, and worry free!
