Hints and Tips
WILL
I GET BORED? FEEL CONFINED?
Cruise ships are like floating resorts with unlimited activities on board
from exercise and spa facilities to bridge, movies and casinos. Or, you
can choose to relax, enjoy the sun.
WHAT
CAN I DO IN PORT?
A full range of optional tours is offered in each port. All ships have a
Cruise Director on board, plus information on the TV in your cabin about
the sightseeing available in the port. You may choose to be more
adventuresome and explore on your own.
DO
CRUISE LINES WELCOME FAMILIES WITH KIDS?
Family cruising is more popular than ever. Most cruise lines provide
supervised activities for all age groups from tots to teens. Youth
counselors keep them busy and entertained in state of the art facilities
designed for play and education. Special Family cabins are available as
well as reduced rates for children.
WHAT
ABOUT ENTERTAINMENT?
Spectacular shows that rival Broadway and Las Vegas in the main showrooms
to nightclubs and lounges, the entertainment is always first rate! The
latest movies, the Captain's Cocktail Party and other special events make
the entertainment exciting and it is all for FREE!
IS
IT EASY TO MEET PEOPLE?
The
atmosphere on board ship is always cordial and relaxed so it is easy to
meet people and socialize. All kinds of people take cruises from singles,
couples and families. Based on your tastes and lifestyle, our cruise
consultants will recommend the right cruise for you.
WHAT
SHOULD I PACK?
Whether
you are on the ship or ashore, dress is very casual. In the evening, many
ships are opting for more casual evenings and dress The Captain's Gala
evening may require a cocktail dress or dark suit. Tuxedo dress is
generally optional. Preflight documents provide more detailed information
on nightly dress.
IS
CRUISING FOR SINGLE PEOPLE?
Cruising
is ideal for single people traveling alone and affords an opportunity to
meet people. Ships may have get-togethers for singles and arrange your
dinner table accordingly. Single cabins and single cruise fares are
available, but generally higher than double rate cabins. Many ships offer
same sex single/share accommodations.
HOW
IS THE DINING EXPERIENCE?
Cruise
lines take great pride in the food and ambiance that they offer their
guests. You will always find a varied menu selection in the Main Dining
rooms as well as on the breakfast and lunch buffets. There is no limit to
how much you can order and never an additional charge. If you prefer a spa
low calorie fare or have special dietary needs, this is available. The
trend on the newest ships is to offer alternate dining, which means that
guests have the option of dining in specialty restaurants that feature
Italian or French cuisine. (Surcharges may apply) Many ships offer 24-hour
room service.
ARE
THERE NONSMOKING AREAS?
Smoking
and nonsmoking areas and cabins are available. Most cruise lines are now
have nonsmoking dining rooms. Some newer ships are totally nonsmoking.
WHAT
ABOUT TIPPING?
Tipping
is a matter of discretion, but generally $2.50 to $3.00 per person per day
for your room steward and dining room waiter and half that amount for the
busboy is appropriate. You may choose to tip more for exceptional service.
A few cruise lines include tipping in the price.
ADDITIONAL
TIPS
If
for some reason you are disappointed with some aspect of your cruise,
inform the front office immediately. The majority of the time the problem
can be solved with the greatest of ease. Do not wait until you come home
to complain about a problem or experience you had on the ship. The front
office staff on the ship is trained to handle all sorts of problems and
complaints. You will be surprised to find out the level of empowerment
that the front office has on a ship.
Sea
Bands are a popular way of staying away from seasickness. They are
elasticized wrist bands that apply slight pressure on the acupressure
point near each wrist that helps control nausea.
When
going on a cruise you should always bring your own travel alarm clock.
This is really important if you have an inside state room. |
