Some say the most important aspect of a cruise is your destination. Some say it's the itinerary. Others say it's the cruise line. They're all wrong.
The most important choice you'll make when choosing a cruise is the ship.
Here's why: Whatever ship you choose will be your home for seven days or more. The ship you choose will determine what kinds of sleeping quarters you'll have, what kind of food you'll eat, what kind of entertainment you'll see, and even what ports you'll visit. If you don't like your ship, you won't like your cruise.
With dozens of lines, hundreds of ships, and thousands of itineraries available, it's no wonder that many people become anxious when planning a cruise. But choosing and booking a cruise can be fun -- if you have a plan. The following pages contain advice about everything from where to gather information to how to evaluate cruise-ship features... Some are; cruise lines, carnival cruises, princess cruises...
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
First Safety
The greatest danger facing cruise-ship passengers is fire. All cruise lines must meet certain international standards for fire safety. The rules that went into effect in October 1997 require that ships have sprinkler systems, smoke detectors, and other safety features. In November 2000, the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) announced that audible smoke alarms would be installed in all cabins, staterooms, and cabin corridors on their ships, as recommended by the National Transportation Safety Board. Each member cruise line agreed to install local alarms as soon as feasibly possible, so check with your line to see if they have been installed.
In March 2001, the ICCL adopted new mandatory safety standards regarding life jackets,
requiring members to have an infant flotation device for every infant on board and to increase the number of adult life jackets by 30-50% by July 1, 2001. These rules are designed to protect against loss of life. They do not guarantee that a fire will not happen; in fact, fire is a relatively common occurrence on cruise ships. The point here is not to create alarm, but to emphasize the importance of taking fire safety seriously.
Fire safety begins with you, the passenger. Once settled into your cabin, find the location of your life vests and review the emergency instructions inside the cabin door or near the life vests. Ensure your vests are in good condition and learn to secure the vest properly. Make certain the ship's purser knows if you or your companion has some physical infirmity that may hamper a speedy exit from your cabin.
In case of an emergency, the purser can quickly dispatch a crew member to assist you. If you are traveling with children, be sure child-size life jackets are placed in your cabin.
Within 24 hours of boarding your ship, you will be asked to attend a mandatory lifeboat drill. Do so and listen carefully. If you have any questions, ask them. If you are unsure of how to use your vest, now is the time to ask. Only in the most extreme circumstances will you need to abandon ship -- but it has happened. The few minutes you spend learning the right procedure may serve you well in a mishap.
In March 2001, the ICCL adopted new mandatory safety standards regarding life jackets,
requiring members to have an infant flotation device for every infant on board and to increase the number of adult life jackets by 30-50% by July 1, 2001. These rules are designed to protect against loss of life. They do not guarantee that a fire will not happen; in fact, fire is a relatively common occurrence on cruise ships. The point here is not to create alarm, but to emphasize the importance of taking fire safety seriously.Fire safety begins with you, the passenger. Once settled into your cabin, find the location of your life vests and review the emergency instructions inside the cabin door or near the life vests. Ensure your vests are in good condition and learn to secure the vest properly. Make certain the ship's purser knows if you or your companion has some physical infirmity that may hamper a speedy exit from your cabin.
In case of an emergency, the purser can quickly dispatch a crew member to assist you. If you are traveling with children, be sure child-size life jackets are placed in your cabin.
Within 24 hours of boarding your ship, you will be asked to attend a mandatory lifeboat drill. Do so and listen carefully. If you have any questions, ask them. If you are unsure of how to use your vest, now is the time to ask. Only in the most extreme circumstances will you need to abandon ship -- but it has happened. The few minutes you spend learning the right procedure may serve you well in a mishap.
Photography
The staff photographer, a near-universal fixture on cruise ships, records every memorable, photogenic moment. The thousands of photos snapped over the course of a cruise are displayed publicly in special cases every morning and are offered for sale. If you want a special photo or a portrait, the photographer is usually happy to oblige.
Many passengers choose to have a formal portrait taken before the captain's farewell dinner -- the dressiest evening of the cruise. The ship's photographer usually anticipates this demand by setting up a portable studio near the dining-room entrance.
If you're more of a do-it-yourselfer and would rather spring for the convenience of seeing your own shots right away, many cruise ships have color-film processing and printing equipment to develop film overnight.
Many passengers choose to have a formal portrait taken before the captain's farewell dinner -- the dressiest evening of the cruise. The ship's photographer usually anticipates this demand by setting up a portable studio near the dining-room entrance.
If you're more of a do-it-yourselfer and would rather spring for the convenience of seeing your own shots right away, many cruise ships have color-film processing and printing equipment to develop film overnight.
Laundry
All but the smallest ships and shortest cruises offer laundry services -- full-service, self-service, or both. Use of machines is generally free, although some ships charge for detergent, use of the machines, or both. Valet laundry service includes cabin pickup and delivery and usually takes 24 hours. Most ships also offer dry-cleaning services.
Room Services
A small number of ships have no room service at all, except when the ship's doctor orders it for an ailing passenger. Many offer only breakfast (Continental on some, full on others), while others provide no more than a limited menu at certain hours of the day. Most, however, have certain selections that you can order at any time. Some luxury ships have unlimited round-the-clock room service. There usually is no charge for room service, other than for beer, wine, or spirits.An increasing number of ships equip their more expensive cabins with small refrigerators or minibars stocked with snacks, soft drinks, and liquors, which may or may not be free.
Promenade Deck
Many vessels designate certain decks for fitness walks and may post the number of laps per mile. Fitness instructors may lead daily walks around the Promenade Deck. A number of ships discourage jogging and running on the decks or ask that no one take fitness walks before 8 AM or 
after 10 PM, so as not to disturb passengers in cabins. With the advent of the megaship, walking and jogging have in many cases moved up top to tracks on the Sun or Sports deck.
For additional information about sports and fitness activities, refer to Tips for Sports Enthusiasts in the "Choosing Your Cruise" section.
after 10 PM, so as not to disturb passengers in cabins. With the advent of the megaship, walking and jogging have in many cases moved up top to tracks on the Sun or Sports deck.For additional information about sports and fitness activities, refer to Tips for Sports Enthusiasts in the "Choosing Your Cruise" section.
Exercise
Most newer ships and some older ones have well-equipped fitness centers, many with massage, sauna, and whirlpools. An upper-deck fitness center often has a view of the sea; an inside, lower-deck health club is often dark and small unless it is equipped with an indoor pool or beauty salon.
Many ships have full-service exercise rooms with bodybuilding equipment, stationary bicycles, rowing machines, treadmills, aerobics classes, and personal fitness instruction. Some ships even have structured, cruise-length physical-fitness programs, which may include lectures on weight loss or nutrition. These often are tied in with a spa menu in the dining room.
Spas have become increasingly popular on cruises. They may have giant thalassotherapy pools (a combination Jacuzzi and massage), indoor heated swimming pools, and treatment rooms. The list of treatments may include ionotherapy, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, and reflexology. The spas may also sell beauty products not available at home.
Many ships have full-service exercise rooms with bodybuilding equipment, stationary bicycles, rowing machines, treadmills, aerobics classes, and personal fitness instruction. Some ships even have structured, cruise-length physical-fitness programs, which may include lectures on weight loss or nutrition. These often are tied in with a spa menu in the dining room.Spas have become increasingly popular on cruises. They may have giant thalassotherapy pools (a combination Jacuzzi and massage), indoor heated swimming pools, and treatment rooms. The list of treatments may include ionotherapy, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, and reflexology. The spas may also sell beauty products not available at home.
Sun Deck
The top deck is usually called the Sun Deck or Sports Deck. On some ships this is where you'll find the pool or whirlpool; on others it is dedicated to volleyball, table tennis, shuffleboard, and other sports. A number of ships have paddle-tennis courts, and a few have golf driving ranges. (Skeet shooting is fast becoming a thing of the past on cruise ships; when available it's usually offered at the stern of a lower deck.) Often, at twilight or after the sun goes down, the Sun Deck is used for dancing, barbecues, limbo contests, or other social activities.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Pools
All but the smallest ships have at least one pool, some of them elaborate affairs with water slides or retractable roofs; hot tubs and whirlpools are quite common.Pools may be filled with fresh or salt water; some ships have one of each. While in port or during rough weather, the pools are usually emptied or covered with canvas. Many are too narrow or too short to allow swimmers more than a few strokes in any direction; none have diving boards, and not all are heated. Often there are no lifeguards. Wading pools are sometimes provided for small children.
Bingo
The daily high-stakes bingo games are even more popular than the casinos. You can play for as little as a dollar a card. Most ships have a bingo game with a jackpot that snowballs throughout the cruise into hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Another popular cruise pastime is the so-called "horse race": Fictional horses are auctioned off to "owners." Individual passengers can buy a horse or form "syndicates." Bids usually begin at around $25 and can top $1,000 per horse. Races are then "run" according to dice throws or computer-generated random numbers. Audience members bet on their favorites.
Another popular cruise pastime is the so-called "horse race": Fictional horses are auctioned off to "owners." Individual passengers can buy a horse or form "syndicates." Bids usually begin at around $25 and can top $1,000 per horse. Races are then "run" according to dice throws or computer-generated random numbers. Audience members bet on their favorites.
Game Rooms
Most ships have a game or card room with card tables and board games. These rooms are for serious players and are often the site of friendly round-robin competitions and tournaments. Most ships furnish everything for free (cards, chips, games, and so forth), but a few charge $1 or more for each deck of cards. Be aware that professional cardsharps and hustlers have been fleecing ship passengers almost as long as there have been ships.
There are small video arcades on most medium and large ships. Family-oriented ships often have a computer learning center as well.
There are small video arcades on most medium and large ships. Family-oriented ships often have a computer learning center as well.
Casinos
Once a ship is 12 miles off American shores, it is in international waters and gambling is permitted. (Some "cruises to nowhere," in fact, are little more than sailing casinos.) All ocean liners, as well as many cruise yachts and motor-sailing ships, have casinos. Larger vessels usually provide such table games as poker, baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and craps. On most ships the maximum bet is $200; some ships allow $500.
Payouts on the slot machines (some of which take as little as a nickel) are generally much lower, too. Credit is never extended, but many casinos have handy credit-card machines that dispense cash for a hefty fee.
Casinos are usually open from early morning to late night, although you may find only unattended slot machines before evening. In adherence to local laws, casinos are always closed while in port.
Payouts on the slot machines (some of which take as little as a nickel) are generally much lower, too. Credit is never extended, but many casinos have handy credit-card machines that dispense cash for a hefty fee.Casinos are usually open from early morning to late night, although you may find only unattended slot machines before evening. In adherence to local laws, casinos are always closed while in port.
Lectures
Some ships may offer a lecture series featuring expert speakers. You can attend the lectures in person (usually they're held in the main lounge) or watch them on your in-cabin TV. These lectures can be the highlight of your cruise, providing insight into your next port of call. They can also be (and often are) nothing more than shopping talks.
If enrichment is high on your list of cruise priorities, check the credentials of the speakers. Cruise lines with serious lecture programs usually list the participants in their brochures and outline their expertise. On a few big ships, there may be as many as five expert speakers on any given cruise, representing anthropology, archaeology, astronomy, geology, oceanography, and other fields. There may even be a theme tying all the disciplines together. The smallest ships may have only one speaker -- a historian or naturalist -- who conducts shipboard talks and leads excursions ashore.
If enrichment is high on your list of cruise priorities, check the credentials of the speakers. Cruise lines with serious lecture programs usually list the participants in their brochures and outline their expertise. On a few big ships, there may be as many as five expert speakers on any given cruise, representing anthropology, archaeology, astronomy, geology, oceanography, and other fields. There may even be a theme tying all the disciplines together. The smallest ships may have only one speaker -- a historian or naturalist -- who conducts shipboard talks and leads excursions ashore.
Movie Theaters
All but the smallest vessels have a room for screening movies. On older ships and some newer ones, this is often a genuine cinema-style movie theater. On other ships, it may be just a multipurpose room. The films are frequently one or two months past their first release but not yet available on videotape or cable TV. Films rated "R" are edited to minimize sex and violence. On a weeklong voyage, a dozen different films may be screened, each one repeated at various times during the day. Theaters are also used for lectures, religious services, and private meetings.Many shipboard libraries also stock videotapes that can be played on the in-cabin VCRs. Almost all ships these days show recently released movies on their closed-circuit television systems. Some also show satellite news programming like CNN International, which has become standard fare on most in-cabin TVs.
Nightlife
On ocean liners, the main entertainment lounge or showroom schedules nightly musical revues, magic acts, comedy performances, and variety shows. During the rest of the day the room is used for group activities, such as shore-excursion talks or bingo games.Generally, the larger the ship, the bigger and more impressive the productions. Newer ships have elaborate showrooms that often span two decks. Some are designed like an amphitheater while others have two levels -- a main floor and a balcony. Seating is sometimes in clusters of armchairs set around cocktail tables. Other ships have more traditional theater-style seating.
Many larger ships have a second showroom. Entertainment and ballroom dancing may go on here late into the night. Elsewhere you may find a disco, nightclub, or cabaret, usually built around a bar and dance floor. Music is provided by a piano player, a disc jockey, or by small performing ensembles such as country-and-western duos or jazz combos.
On smaller ships the entertainment options are more limited, sometimes consisting of no more than a piano around which passengers gather. There may be a main lounge where scaled-down revues are staged.
Entertainment
Many cruise lines publish a daily schedule of events, listing all of your entertainment options. It becomes the equivalent of your daily newspaper, delivered to your cabin every evening.
You will probably want to get a sense of what a typical day on board will be like before you sail. To see a sample daily events schedule, it's possible to call the cruise line and request a recent copy of the onboard newsletter. Some cruise lines also send out booklets detailing the daily schedules before sailing. Most cruise line Web sites list the entertainment options available on board. Both Holland America and Princess Cruises publish their daily itineraries on their Web sites.
You will probably want to get a sense of what a typical day on board will be like before you sail. To see a sample daily events schedule, it's possible to call the cruise line and request a recent copy of the onboard newsletter. Some cruise lines also send out booklets detailing the daily schedules before sailing. Most cruise line Web sites list the entertainment options available on board. Both Holland America and Princess Cruises publish their daily itineraries on their Web sites.
Bars
Ships bars, whether adjacent to the pool or attached to one of the lounges, tend to be their social centers. Except on a handful of luxury-class ships where everything is included in the ticket price, bars operate on a pay-as-it's-poured basis. Rather than demand cash after every round, however, most ships allow passengers to charge drinks to their accounts. On most ships, drinks range from $3-$5 for beer, $4-$6 for wine and spirits, and up to $8 for specialty drinks.
Almost all ships require passengers to be over 21 to purchase alcoholic drinks. Many cruise ships have chapters of Alcoholics Anonymous (a.k.a "Friends of Bill W") or will organize meetings on request. Look for meeting times and places in the daily program slipped under your cabin door each night.
Almost all ships require passengers to be over 21 to purchase alcoholic drinks. Many cruise ships have chapters of Alcoholics Anonymous (a.k.a "Friends of Bill W") or will organize meetings on request. Look for meeting times and places in the daily program slipped under your cabin door each night.
The Captain's Table
It is both a privilege and a marvelous experience to be invited to dine one evening at the captain's table. Although some seats are given to celebrities, repeat passengers, and passengers in the most
expensive suites, other invitations are given at random to ordinary passengers. Any passenger can request an invitation from the chief steward or the hotel manager, although there is no guarantee you will be accommodated. The captain's guests always wear a suit and tie or a dress, even if the dress code for that evening is casual. On many ships, passengers may also be invited to dine at the other officers' special tables, or officers may visit a different passenger table each evening.
expensive suites, other invitations are given at random to ordinary passengers. Any passenger can request an invitation from the chief steward or the hotel manager, although there is no guarantee you will be accommodated. The captain's guests always wear a suit and tie or a dress, even if the dress code for that evening is casual. On many ships, passengers may also be invited to dine at the other officers' special tables, or officers may visit a different passenger table each evening.
Cuisine
Most ships offering cruises out of U.S. ports serve food geared to the American palate, but there are also theme dinners featuring the cuisine of a particular country. Some European ships, especially smaller vessels, may offer a particular cuisine throughout the cruise -- Scandinavian, German, Italian, or Greek, perhaps -- depending on the ship's or the crew's nationality. Aboard all cruise ships, the quality of the cooking is generally good, but even a skilled chef is hard put to serve 500 or more extraordinary dinners per hour.
If you're unhappy with your meal, don't be shy about sending it back or requesting a different
one from the menu -- your rights as a diner are the same here as they would be in any land-based restaurant. Often, you'll be able to combine different menu items to create the meal you'd like. And if you're completely displeased with what's on the menu at any given meal, it is possible -- especially on the larger ships -- to request a substitution on the spot. Omelettes and simple pasta dishes likely will dominate the offerings, but larger ship kitchens might be willing to produce a steak or rustle up other items from their well-stocked larders.
With notification well in advance, many ships can also provide a kosher, low-salt, low-cholesterol, sugar-free, vegetarian, or other special menu. Large ships usually offer an alternative "light" or "spa" menu based upon American Heart Association guidelines, using less fat, leaner cuts of meat, low-cholesterol or low-sodium preparations, smaller portions, salads, fresh-fruit desserts, and healthy garnishes. Some smaller ships may not be able to accommodate special dietary needs.
Wine at meals costs extra on most ships; the prices are usually comparable to those in shoreside restaurants and are charged to your shipboard account.
If you're unhappy with your meal, don't be shy about sending it back or requesting a different
one from the menu -- your rights as a diner are the same here as they would be in any land-based restaurant. Often, you'll be able to combine different menu items to create the meal you'd like. And if you're completely displeased with what's on the menu at any given meal, it is possible -- especially on the larger ships -- to request a substitution on the spot. Omelettes and simple pasta dishes likely will dominate the offerings, but larger ship kitchens might be willing to produce a steak or rustle up other items from their well-stocked larders.With notification well in advance, many ships can also provide a kosher, low-salt, low-cholesterol, sugar-free, vegetarian, or other special menu. Large ships usually offer an alternative "light" or "spa" menu based upon American Heart Association guidelines, using less fat, leaner cuts of meat, low-cholesterol or low-sodium preparations, smaller portions, salads, fresh-fruit desserts, and healthy garnishes. Some smaller ships may not be able to accommodate special dietary needs.
Wine at meals costs extra on most ships; the prices are usually comparable to those in shoreside restaurants and are charged to your shipboard account.
Seatings
When it comes to your dining-table assignment, you should have options on four important points: early or late seating; smoking or non-smoking section (if smoking is allowed in the dining room); a table for two, four, six, or eight; and special dietary needs. When you receive your cruise documents, you will usually receive a card asking for your dining preferences. Fill this out and return it to the cruise line, but remember that you will not get your seating assignment until you board the ship.
On some ships, seating times are strictly observed. Ten to 15 minutes after the scheduled mealtime, the dining-room doors are closed. On other ships, passengers may enter the dining room at their leisure, but they must be out by the end of the seating. When a ship has just one seating, passengers may enter at any time while the kitchen is open and are never rushed.
Seating assignments on some ships apply only for dinner. Several have open seating for breakfast or lunch, which means you may sit anywhere at any time. Smaller or more luxurious ships offer open seating for all meals.
If for whatever reason you don't enjoy the company at your table, the maître d' can usually move you to another one if the dining room isn't completely full -- a tip helps. He will probably be reluctant to comply with your request after the first full day at sea, however, because the waiters, busboys, and wine steward who have been serving you up to that point won't receive their tips at the end of the cruise. Be persistent if you are truly unhappy.
On some ships, seating times are strictly observed. Ten to 15 minutes after the scheduled mealtime, the dining-room doors are closed. On other ships, passengers may enter the dining room at their leisure, but they must be out by the end of the seating. When a ship has just one seating, passengers may enter at any time while the kitchen is open and are never rushed.
Seating assignments on some ships apply only for dinner. Several have open seating for breakfast or lunch, which means you may sit anywhere at any time. Smaller or more luxurious ships offer open seating for all meals.
If for whatever reason you don't enjoy the company at your table, the maître d' can usually move you to another one if the dining room isn't completely full -- a tip helps. He will probably be reluctant to comply with your request after the first full day at sea, however, because the waiters, busboys, and wine steward who have been serving you up to that point won't receive their tips at the end of the cruise. Be persistent if you are truly unhappy.
Restaurants
The chief meals of the day are served in the main dining room, which on most ships can accommodate only half the passengers at once. So meals are usually served in two sittings -- early (or main) and late (or second) seatings -- usually from 1½ to 2½ hours apart. Early seating for dinner is generally between 6 and 6:30, late seating between 8 and 8:30. Some smaller, upscale ships have open seating for dinner.
Most cruise ships have a cafeteria-style restaurant, usually near the swimming pool, where you can eat lunch and breakfast (dinner is usually served only in the dining room). Many ships provide self-service coffee or tea in their cafeteria around the clock, as well as buffets at midnight.
Increasingly, ships also have alternative restaurants for ethnic cuisines, such as Italian, Chinese, or Japanese food. These are found mostly on newer vessels, although some older liners have been refitted for alternative dining. Other ships have pizzerias, ice-cream parlors, and caviar or cappuccino bars; there may be an extra charge at these facilities.
More and more lines are banning smoking in their main dining rooms. Check the policies of the various cruise lines before sailing if this is an issue either way.
Most cruise ships have a cafeteria-style restaurant, usually near the swimming pool, where you can eat lunch and breakfast (dinner is usually served only in the dining room). Many ships provide self-service coffee or tea in their cafeteria around the clock, as well as buffets at midnight.
Increasingly, ships also have alternative restaurants for ethnic cuisines, such as Italian, Chinese, or Japanese food. These are found mostly on newer vessels, although some older liners have been refitted for alternative dining. Other ships have pizzerias, ice-cream parlors, and caviar or cappuccino bars; there may be an extra charge at these facilities.More and more lines are banning smoking in their main dining rooms. Check the policies of the various cruise lines before sailing if this is an issue either way.
Dining
Ocean liners serve food nearly around the clock. There may be up to four breakfast options: early-morning coffee and pastries on deck, breakfast in bed via room service, buffet-style breakfast in the cafeteria, and breakfast in the dining room. There may also be two or three choices for lunch, mid-afternoon hors d'oeuvres (generally called "afternoon tea"), and midnight buffets. You can eat whatever is on the menu, in any quantity, at as many of these meals as you wish. Room service is traditionally, but not always, free (see Shipboard Services, to the right).
Tipping On Board
For better or worse, tipping is an integral part of the cruise experience. Most companies pay their cruise staff nominal wages and expect tips to make up the difference. Most cruise lines have recommended tipping guidelines, and on many ships "voluntary" tipping for beverage service has been replaced with a mandatory 15% service charge, which is added to every bar bill. On the other hand, the most expensive luxury lines include tipping in the cruise fare and may prohibit crew members from accepting any additional gratuities. On most small adventure ships, a collection box is placed in the dining room or lounge on the last full day of the cruise, and passengers are encouraged to contribute anonymously.
Shipboard Accounts
Virtually all cruise ships operate as cashless societies. Passengers charge onboard purchases and settle their accounts at the end of the cruise with a credit card, traveler's checks, or cash. You can sign for wine at dinner, drinks at the bar, shore excursions, gifts in the shop -- virtually any expense you may incur aboard ship. On some lines, an imprint from a major credit card is necessary to open an account. Otherwise, a cash deposit may be required and a positive balance maintained to keep the shipboard account open. Either way, you will want to open a line of credit soon after settling into your cabin if an account was not opened for you at embarkation. This can be arranged easily by visiting the purser's office, located in the central atrium or main lobby.
Inspect Your Cabin
Before taking in the finer points of your cabin, ensure that your bags have arrived. Do not hesitate to call the purser if they haven't, especially if sailing time is drawing near.
Next, see that everything is in order. If there are two twin beds instead of the double bed you wanted, or other serious problems, ask to be moved before the ship departs. Unless the ship is full, you can usually persuade the chief housekeeper or hotel manager to allow you to change cabins. It is customary to tip the stewards who assist you in moving to another cabin.
Since your cabin is your home away from home for a few days or weeks, everything should be to your satisfaction. Take a good look around: Is the cabin clean and orderly? Do the toilet, shower, faucets, and air-conditioning work? Check the telephone and television. Again, major problems should be addressed immediately. Minor concerns, such as not enough bath towels or pillows, can wait until the frenzy of embarkation has subsided.
Your dining-time and seating-assignment card may be in your cabin; now is the time to check it and immediately request any changes. The maître d' usually will have set up shop in one of the public rooms specifically for this purpose.
Next, see that everything is in order. If there are two twin beds instead of the double bed you wanted, or other serious problems, ask to be moved before the ship departs. Unless the ship is full, you can usually persuade the chief housekeeper or hotel manager to allow you to change cabins. It is customary to tip the stewards who assist you in moving to another cabin.
Since your cabin is your home away from home for a few days or weeks, everything should be to your satisfaction. Take a good look around: Is the cabin clean and orderly? Do the toilet, shower, faucets, and air-conditioning work? Check the telephone and television. Again, major problems should be addressed immediately. Minor concerns, such as not enough bath towels or pillows, can wait until the frenzy of embarkation has subsided.
Your dining-time and seating-assignment card may be in your cabin; now is the time to check it and immediately request any changes. The maître d' usually will have set up shop in one of the public rooms specifically for this purpose.
U.K. Customs
Allowances. If your cruise was wholly within European Union (EU) countries, you no longer need to pass through customs when you return to the United Kingdom. If you plan to bring back large quantities of alcohol or tobacco, check in advance on EU limits. Current guidelines for goods bought for personal use within the EU are 800 cigarettes, 400 cigarillos, 200 cigars, 1 kg smoking tobacco, 10 litres of spirits, 20 litres of fortified wine, 90 litres of wine, and 110 litres of beer.
When returning from cruises that called at countries outside the European Union, you may import duty-free 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco; 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of fortified or sparkling wine or liqueur; 2 liters of still table wine; 60 milliliters of perfume; 250 milliliters of toilet water; plus £145 worth of other goods, including gifts and souvenirs. If you bring in something worth more than £145, you will have to pay charges on the full amount, not just the amount over £145. Tobacco and alcohol allowances do not extend to passengers under 17 years of age.
For More Information. For further information or a copy of "A Customs Guide for Travellers," which details standard customs procedures as well as what you may bring into the United Kingdom from abroad, contact HM Customs and Excise (Dorset House, Stamford St., London SE1 9PY, tel. 020/7202-4700), or view the guide online at the Customs Web site.
When returning from cruises that called at countries outside the European Union, you may import duty-free 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco; 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of fortified or sparkling wine or liqueur; 2 liters of still table wine; 60 milliliters of perfume; 250 milliliters of toilet water; plus £145 worth of other goods, including gifts and souvenirs. If you bring in something worth more than £145, you will have to pay charges on the full amount, not just the amount over £145. Tobacco and alcohol allowances do not extend to passengers under 17 years of age.For More Information. For further information or a copy of "A Customs Guide for Travellers," which details standard customs procedures as well as what you may bring into the United Kingdom from abroad, contact HM Customs and Excise (Dorset House, Stamford St., London SE1 9PY, tel. 020/7202-4700), or view the guide online at the Customs Web site.
Canadian Customs
Allowances. If you've been out of Canada for at least seven days, you may bring in C$750 worth of goods duty-free. If you've been away less than seven days but more than 48 hours, the duty-free exemption drops to C$200. If you've been away more than 24 hours but less than 48 hours, the duty-free exemption is C$50. You cannot pool exemptions with family members. Goods claimed under the C$750 exemption may follow you by mail; those claimed under the lesser exemption must accompany you.
Alcohol and Tobacco. Alcohol and tobacco products may be included in the seven-day and 48-hour exemption, but not in the 24-hour exemption. For both alcohol and tobacco, you must meet the age requirements of the province or territory through which you reenter Canada. You may bring in, duty-free, 1.14 liters (40 imperial ounces) of liquor or 1.5 liters of wine or two dozen 12-ounce cans or bottles of beer or ale. You may bring in, duty-free, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or cigarillos, and 200 tobacco sticks, and 200 grams of manufactured tobacco. Alcohol and tobacco must accompany you on your return.
Gifts. An unlimited number of gifts valued up to C$60 each may be mailed to Canada duty-free. These do not count as part of your exemption. Label the package "Unsolicited Gift -- Value Under $60." Alcohol, tobacco, and advertising matter are excluded.
For More Information. For additional information, including details of duties on items that exceed your duty-free limit, contact Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (2265 St. Laurent Blvd. S, Ottawa, Ontario K1G 4K3, tel. 800/461-9999 in Canada, or 613/993-0534 after 4:30pm and on weekends) for a copy of the free brochure "I Declare/Je Déclare," or view it online at the agency's Web site. For recorded information (within Canada only), call 800/461-9999.
Alcohol and Tobacco. Alcohol and tobacco products may be included in the seven-day and 48-hour exemption, but not in the 24-hour exemption. For both alcohol and tobacco, you must meet the age requirements of the province or territory through which you reenter Canada. You may bring in, duty-free, 1.14 liters (40 imperial ounces) of liquor or 1.5 liters of wine or two dozen 12-ounce cans or bottles of beer or ale. You may bring in, duty-free, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or cigarillos, and 200 tobacco sticks, and 200 grams of manufactured tobacco. Alcohol and tobacco must accompany you on your return.Gifts. An unlimited number of gifts valued up to C$60 each may be mailed to Canada duty-free. These do not count as part of your exemption. Label the package "Unsolicited Gift -- Value Under $60." Alcohol, tobacco, and advertising matter are excluded.
For More Information. For additional information, including details of duties on items that exceed your duty-free limit, contact Canada Customs and Revenue Agency (2265 St. Laurent Blvd. S, Ottawa, Ontario K1G 4K3, tel. 800/461-9999 in Canada, or 613/993-0534 after 4:30pm and on weekends) for a copy of the free brochure "I Declare/Je Déclare," or view it online at the agency's Web site. For recorded information (within Canada only), call 800/461-9999.
U.S. Customs
Before your ship lands, each individual or family must fill out a customs declaration, regardless of whether anything was purchased abroad. You will need to itemize your purchases in writing on the back of the declaration form if they exceed the allowable duty-free exemption plus $1,000. (The first $1,000 beyond the duty-free exemption is taxed at a flat rate of 2%). Be prepared to pay whatever duties are owed directly to the customs inspector, with cash or check.
U.S. Customs now preclears a number of ships sailing into and out of Miami and other ports -- it's done on the ship before you disembark. In other ports you must collect your luggage from the dock, then stand in line to pass through the inspection point. This can take up to an hour.
Allowances. You may bring home $400 worth of foreign goods duty-free if you've been out of the country for at least 48 hours and haven't already used the $400 exemption, or any part of it, in the past 30 days. Note that these are the general rules, applicable to most countries; passengers on certain Caribbean or Panama Canal itineraries may be entitled to bring back $600 worth of goods duty-free, and if you're returning from a cruise that called in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the duty-free allowance is higher -- $1,200. If you haven't been out of the country for at least 48 hours, or if you've been out of the country more than once in a 30-day period, you are still entitled to a duty-free allowance of $200.
Alcohol and Tobacco. Travelers 21 or older may bring back 1 liter of alcohol duty-free, provided the beverage laws of the state through which they reenter the United States allow it. In some Caribbean countries, 2 liters are allowed, and in the case of the U.S. Virgin Islands, 5 liters are allowed. In both cases, one of the liters must be a product of that country. In addition, 100 non-Cuban cigars and 200 cigarettes are allowed, regardless of your age. From the U.S. Virgin Islands, 1,000 cigarettes are allowed, but only 200 of them may have been acquired elsewhere. Antiques and works of art more than 100 years old are duty-free.
Gifts. You may also send packages home duty-free: up to $200 worth of goods for personal use, with a limit of one parcel per addressee per day (and no alcohol or tobacco products or perfume containing alcohol and worth more than $5); label the package "Personal Use" and attach a list of its contents and their retail value. Do not label the package "Unsolicited Gift," or your duty-free exemption will drop to $100. Mailed items do not affect your duty-free allowance on your return.
For More Information. For a copy of "Know Before You Go," a free brochure detailing what you may and may not bring back to the United States, rates of duty, and other pointers, contact the U.S. Customs Service (Box 7407, Washington, DC 20044, tel. 202/927-6724). The brochure is also available to view in full at the U.S. Customs Web site.
U.S. Customs for Foreigners
If you hold a foreign passport and will be returning home within hours of docking, you may be exempt from all U.S. Customs duties. Everything you bring into the United States must leave with you when you return home. When you reach your own country, you will have to pay appropriate duties there.
U.S. Customs now preclears a number of ships sailing into and out of Miami and other ports -- it's done on the ship before you disembark. In other ports you must collect your luggage from the dock, then stand in line to pass through the inspection point. This can take up to an hour.
Allowances. You may bring home $400 worth of foreign goods duty-free if you've been out of the country for at least 48 hours and haven't already used the $400 exemption, or any part of it, in the past 30 days. Note that these are the general rules, applicable to most countries; passengers on certain Caribbean or Panama Canal itineraries may be entitled to bring back $600 worth of goods duty-free, and if you're returning from a cruise that called in the U.S. Virgin Islands, the duty-free allowance is higher -- $1,200. If you haven't been out of the country for at least 48 hours, or if you've been out of the country more than once in a 30-day period, you are still entitled to a duty-free allowance of $200.
Alcohol and Tobacco. Travelers 21 or older may bring back 1 liter of alcohol duty-free, provided the beverage laws of the state through which they reenter the United States allow it. In some Caribbean countries, 2 liters are allowed, and in the case of the U.S. Virgin Islands, 5 liters are allowed. In both cases, one of the liters must be a product of that country. In addition, 100 non-Cuban cigars and 200 cigarettes are allowed, regardless of your age. From the U.S. Virgin Islands, 1,000 cigarettes are allowed, but only 200 of them may have been acquired elsewhere. Antiques and works of art more than 100 years old are duty-free.
Gifts. You may also send packages home duty-free: up to $200 worth of goods for personal use, with a limit of one parcel per addressee per day (and no alcohol or tobacco products or perfume containing alcohol and worth more than $5); label the package "Personal Use" and attach a list of its contents and their retail value. Do not label the package "Unsolicited Gift," or your duty-free exemption will drop to $100. Mailed items do not affect your duty-free allowance on your return.
For More Information. For a copy of "Know Before You Go," a free brochure detailing what you may and may not bring back to the United States, rates of duty, and other pointers, contact the U.S. Customs Service (Box 7407, Washington, DC 20044, tel. 202/927-6724). The brochure is also available to view in full at the U.S. Customs Web site.
U.S. Customs for Foreigners
If you hold a foreign passport and will be returning home within hours of docking, you may be exempt from all U.S. Customs duties. Everything you bring into the United States must leave with you when you return home. When you reach your own country, you will have to pay appropriate duties there.
Disembarkaiton
The last night of your cruise is full of business. On most ships you must place everything except your hand luggage outside your cabin door, ready to be picked up by midnight. Color-coded tags, distributed to your cabin in a debarkation packet, should be placed on your luggage before the crew collects it. Your designated color will later determine when you leave the ship and help you retrieve your luggage on the pier.
Your shipboard bill is left in your room during the last day; to pay the bill (if you haven't already put it on your credit card) or to settle any questions, you must stand in line at the purser's office. Tips to the cabin steward and dining staff are distributed on the last night.
The next morning, in-room breakfast service is usually not available because stewards are too busy. Most passengers clear out of their cabins as soon as possible, gather their hand luggage, and stake out a chair in one of the public lounges to await the ship's clearance through customs. Be patient -- it takes a long time to unload and sort thousands of pieces of luggage. Passengers disembark by groups according to the color-coded tags placed on luggage the night before; those with the earliest flights get off first. If you have a tight connection, notify the purser before the last day, and he or she may be able to arrange faster preclearing and debarkation for you.
Your shipboard bill is left in your room during the last day; to pay the bill (if you haven't already put it on your credit card) or to settle any questions, you must stand in line at the purser's office. Tips to the cabin steward and dining staff are distributed on the last night.
The next morning, in-room breakfast service is usually not available because stewards are too busy. Most passengers clear out of their cabins as soon as possible, gather their hand luggage, and stake out a chair in one of the public lounges to await the ship's clearance through customs. Be patient -- it takes a long time to unload and sort thousands of pieces of luggage. Passengers disembark by groups according to the color-coded tags placed on luggage the night before; those with the earliest flights get off first. If you have a tight connection, notify the purser before the last day, and he or she may be able to arrange faster preclearing and debarkation for you.
Visitors' Pass
Some cruise ships permit passengers to invite guests on board prior to sailing, although most cruise lines prohibit all but paying passengers for reasons of security and insurance liability. Cruise companies that allow visitors usually require that you obtain passes several weeks in advance; call the lines for policies and procedures.
Most ships do not allow visitors while the ship is docked in a port of call. If you meet a friend on shore, you likely won't be able to invite him or her back to your stateroom.
Most ships do not allow visitors while the ship is docked in a port of call. If you meet a friend on shore, you likely won't be able to invite him or her back to your stateroom.
Boarding The Ship
On many cruises, before you walk up the gangway, the ship's photographer will take your picture; there's no charge unless you buy the picture ($7-$10 for 5x7 prints, $20-$25 for 8x10 prints). On board, stewards may serve welcome drinks in souvenir glasses -- for which you're usually charged around $6.
You will be escorted to your cabin by a steward, who will carry your hand luggage. The rest of your bags will either be inside your cabin when you arrive or will come shortly thereafter. If your bags don't arrive within a half hour before sailing, contact the purser. If you are among the unlucky few whose luggage doesn't make it to the ship in time, the purser will trace it and arrange to have it flown to the next port.
You will be escorted to your cabin by a steward, who will carry your hand luggage. The rest of your bags will either be inside your cabin when you arrive or will come shortly thereafter. If your bags don't arrive within a half hour before sailing, contact the purser. If you are among the unlucky few whose luggage doesn't make it to the ship in time, the purser will trace it and arrange to have it flown to the next port.
Check In
On arrival at the dock, you must check in before boarding your ship. (A handful of smaller cruise ships handle check-in at the airport.) A cruise-line official will collect or stamp your ticket, inspect or even retain your passport, and give you keys to your cabin. Seating assignments for the dining room are often handed out at this time, too.
After this you may be required to go through a security check and to pass your hand baggage through an X-ray inspection. These are the same machines in use at airports, so ask to have your photographic film inspected visually.
Although it takes only five or 10 minutes per family to check in, lines are often long, so aim for off-peak hours. The worst time tends to be immediately after the ship begins boarding; the later it is, the less crowded. For example, if boarding begins at 2 PM and continues until 4:30, try to arrive after 3:30.
After this you may be required to go through a security check and to pass your hand baggage through an X-ray inspection. These are the same machines in use at airports, so ask to have your photographic film inspected visually.
Although it takes only five or 10 minutes per family to check in, lines are often long, so aim for off-peak hours. The worst time tends to be immediately after the ship begins boarding; the later it is, the less crowded. For example, if boarding begins at 2 PM and continues until 4:30, try to arrive after 3:30.
Emberkation
If you have purchased an air-sea package, you will be met by a cruise-company representative when your plane lands at the port city and then shuttled directly to the ship in buses or minivans. Some cruise lines arrange to transport your luggage between airport and ship -- you don't have to hassle with baggage claim at the start of your cruise or with baggage check-in at the end. If you decide not to buy the air-sea package but still plan to fly, ask your travel agent if you can use the ship's transfer bus anyway; if you do, you may be required to purchase a round-trip transfer voucher. These vary greatly in price, depending on the distance between the airport and the ship, and can range from $10 to over $100 per person. In popular cruise ports such as Miami, voucher prices are generally $20-$30. You can also take a taxi from the airport to the ship.
If you live close to the port of embarkation, bus transportation may be available. If you are part of a group that has booked a cruise together, this transportation may be part of your package. Another option for those who live close to their point of departure is to drive to the ship. The major U.S. cruise ports all have parking facilities.
If you live close to the port of embarkation, bus transportation may be available. If you are part of a group that has booked a cruise together, this transportation may be part of your package. Another option for those who live close to their point of departure is to drive to the ship. The major U.S. cruise ports all have parking facilities.
What to Pack
Although you will naturally pack differently for the tropics than for Alaska, certain packing rules apply to all cruises: Always take along a sweater in case of cool evening ocean breezes or overactive air-conditioning. A rain slicker usually comes in handy, too, and make sure you take at least one pair of comfortable walking shoes for exploring port towns.Shorts or slacks are convenient for shore excursions, but remember that in Asia and Latin America women are expected to dress modestly and men to wear slacks. If you are going to Asia and plan to visit any holy places, both men and women will need a pair of slip-off shoes and
garments that cover their knees (although these are usually available for rent at the site for a nominal charge). For European ports of call, pack as you would for any American city: casual clothes by day, dressier fashions for going out on the town at night. For visits to churches, cathedrals, and mosques, avoid shorts and other outfits that could be considered immodest: In Italy, women should cover their shoulders and arms (a shawl will do). In Turkey, women must have a head covering; a long-sleeve blouse and long skirt or slacks are also required.Most cruise lines have dress codes for dining that vary during the cruise. To prepare for formal evenings, men should pack a dark suit, a tuxedo, or a white dinner jacket. Tuxedo rentals are offered on many ships. Women should pack one long gown or cocktail dress for every two or three formal evenings on board. Most ships have semiformal evenings, when men should wear a jacket and tie and women a dress or skirt and blouse. Ships will often suggest attire for their particular theme nights, with information available before the cruise. A few lines have no dress codes or guidelines. Check individual cruise lines for dress codes and packing guidelines.
Generally speaking, plan on one outfit for every two days of cruising, especially if your wardrobe contains many interchangeable pieces. Ships often have convenient laundry facilities as well. And don't overload your luggage with extra toiletries and sundry items; they are easily available in port and in the ship's gift shop (though usually at a premium price). Soaps, and sometimes shampoos and body lotion, are often placed in your cabin compliments of the cruise line.
Take an extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses in your carry-on luggage. If you have a health problem that requires a prescription drug, pack enough to last the duration of the trip or have your doctor write a prescription using the drug's generic name, because brand names vary from country to country. Always carry prescription drugs in their original packaging to avoid problems with customs officials. Don't pack them in luggage that you plan to check in case your bags go astray. Pack a list of the offices that supply refunds for lost or stolen traveler's checks.
Non-U.S. Citizens
If you plan to embark, disembark, or call at ports in the United States, you may need a passport and possibly a visa, depending on your country of citizenship. Check with your cruise line or the U.S. embassy for the latest documentation requirements.
Passport Applications. Canadian citizens interested in obtaining or renewing a passport should contact the Passport Office (tel. 800/567-6868). Citizens of the United Kingdom should contact the U.K. Passport Agency (tel. 0901 4700 110, nat'l hotline tel. 0870 521 0410)
Passport Applications. Canadian citizens interested in obtaining or renewing a passport should contact the Passport Office (tel. 800/567-6868). Citizens of the United Kingdom should contact the U.K. Passport Agency (tel. 0901 4700 110, nat'l hotline tel. 0870 521 0410)
U.S. Citizens
In years past, cruise lines sailing from Florida ports to the Caribbean rarely asked to see passports from American passengers. That has changed, and it's advisable to be prepared to show your passport. If you don't, you may be asked to fill out a citizenship form -- delaying your embarkation.
If you are boarding a ship outside the United States, you'll need the appropriate entry requirements for that country. On cruises to or from some countries, you may be required to obtain a visa in advance. Check with your travel agent or cruise line about specific requirements. If you do need a visa for your cruise, your travel agent will usually help you obtain it, through a visa service by mail or directly from the consulate or embassy. Cruise lines often provide this service as well.
Passport Applications. For information on obtaining or renewing a passport, contact the National Passport Information Center (tel. 900/225-5674 or 888/362-8668), or print passport applications from the Passport Services and Information page on the U.S. State Department Web site.
If you are boarding a ship outside the United States, you'll need the appropriate entry requirements for that country. On cruises to or from some countries, you may be required to obtain a visa in advance. Check with your travel agent or cruise line about specific requirements. If you do need a visa for your cruise, your travel agent will usually help you obtain it, through a visa service by mail or directly from the consulate or embassy. Cruise lines often provide this service as well.
Passport Applications. For information on obtaining or renewing a passport, contact the National Passport Information Center (tel. 900/225-5674 or 888/362-8668), or print passport applications from the Passport Services and Information page on the U.S. State Department Web site.
Passport and Visas
Carrying a passport is always a good idea, and entry requirements do change, so read your cruise documents carefully to see what you'll need for embarkation. (You don't want to be turned away at the pier!)
Tickets and Documents
After you make the final payment to your travel agent, the cruise line will issue your cruise tickets and vouchers for airport-ship transfers. Depending on the airline, and whether you have purchased an air-sea package, you may receive your plane tickets or charter-flight vouchers at the same time; you may also receive vouchers for any shore excursions, although most cruise lines issue these aboard ship. Should your travel documents not arrive when promised, contact your travel agent or call the cruise line directly. If you book late, tickets may be delivered directly to the ship.
Once aboard, you may be asked to turn over your passport for group immigration clearance or to turn over your return plane ticket so the ship's staff may reconfirm your flight home. Otherwise, keep travel documents in a safe place, such as the safe in your cabin or at the purser's office.
Once aboard, you may be asked to turn over your passport for group immigration clearance or to turn over your return plane ticket so the ship's staff may reconfirm your flight home. Otherwise, keep travel documents in a safe place, such as the safe in your cabin or at the purser's office.
Travel Insurers
Travel insurance is the best way to protect yourself against financial loss. The most useful plan is a comprehensive policy that includes coverage for trip cancellation-and-interruption, cruise line default, trip delay (including missed cruise connections), and medical expenses (with a waiver for preexisting conditions).
Without insurance you will lose all or most of your money if you cancel your trip, regardless of
the reason. Should your cruise line go out of business, default protection will reimburse you for any payments you've made -- or pay to get you home should you find yourself stranded. Another way to protect yourself is to book with a line that belongs to the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA, 342 Madison Ave., Suite 1522, New York, NY 10022, tel. 212/599-6599 or 800/468-7862, fax 212/599-6744), which requires members to maintain $1 million each in an account to reimburse clients in case of default.
Trip-delay provisions will cover unforeseen expenses that you may incur due to bad weather or sometimes mechanical delays. It's important to compare the fine print regarding trip-delay coverage when comparing policies.
For overseas travel, one of the most important components of travel insurance is its medical coverage. Supplemental health insurance will pick up the cost of your medical bills should you get sick or injured while traveling. U.S. residents should note that Medicare generally does not cover health-care costs outside the United States, nor do many privately issued policies.
Always buy travel insurance directly from the insurance company; if you buy it from a cruise line that goes out of business, your default coverage will be invalid.
In the U.S., Access America (6600 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23230, tel. 804/285-3300 or 800/284-8300, fax 800/346-9265); ASA Inc. (12223 S. 45th. St., Phoenix, AZ 85044-2415, tel. 888/ASA-8288 or 480/753-1333, fax 480/753-1330); Customized Services Administrators (CSA; P.O. Box 939057, San Diego, CA 92193-9057, tel. 800/873-9855); International Medical Group (IMG; 407 Fulton St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, tel. 800/628-4664 or 317/655-4500, fax 317/655-4505); TravelGuard International (1145 Clark St., Stevens Point, WI 54481, tel. 715/345-0505 or 877/216-4885, fax 800/826-0838).
In Canada, Royal Bank Financial Group/RBC Life Insurance Company (tel. 800/565-3129 from US & Canada or 905/799-4930 collect from anywhere, fax 905/791-5807); Travel Insurance Coordinators (#300 - 2609 Westview Dr., North Vancouver, BC, Canada V7N 4M2, tel. 604/986-4292 or 800/663-4494, fax 604/986-5797).
Without insurance you will lose all or most of your money if you cancel your trip, regardless of
the reason. Should your cruise line go out of business, default protection will reimburse you for any payments you've made -- or pay to get you home should you find yourself stranded. Another way to protect yourself is to book with a line that belongs to the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA, 342 Madison Ave., Suite 1522, New York, NY 10022, tel. 212/599-6599 or 800/468-7862, fax 212/599-6744), which requires members to maintain $1 million each in an account to reimburse clients in case of default.Trip-delay provisions will cover unforeseen expenses that you may incur due to bad weather or sometimes mechanical delays. It's important to compare the fine print regarding trip-delay coverage when comparing policies.
For overseas travel, one of the most important components of travel insurance is its medical coverage. Supplemental health insurance will pick up the cost of your medical bills should you get sick or injured while traveling. U.S. residents should note that Medicare generally does not cover health-care costs outside the United States, nor do many privately issued policies.
Always buy travel insurance directly from the insurance company; if you buy it from a cruise line that goes out of business, your default coverage will be invalid.
In the U.S., Access America (6600 W. Broad St., Richmond, VA 23230, tel. 804/285-3300 or 800/284-8300, fax 800/346-9265); ASA Inc. (12223 S. 45th. St., Phoenix, AZ 85044-2415, tel. 888/ASA-8288 or 480/753-1333, fax 480/753-1330); Customized Services Administrators (CSA; P.O. Box 939057, San Diego, CA 92193-9057, tel. 800/873-9855); International Medical Group (IMG; 407 Fulton St., Indianapolis, IN 46202, tel. 800/628-4664 or 317/655-4500, fax 317/655-4505); TravelGuard International (1145 Clark St., Stevens Point, WI 54481, tel. 715/345-0505 or 877/216-4885, fax 800/826-0838).
In Canada, Royal Bank Financial Group/RBC Life Insurance Company (tel. 800/565-3129 from US & Canada or 905/799-4930 collect from anywhere, fax 905/791-5807); Travel Insurance Coordinators (#300 - 2609 Westview Dr., North Vancouver, BC, Canada V7N 4M2, tel. 604/986-4292 or 800/663-4494, fax 604/986-5797).
Cancellation
Your entire deposit or payment may be refunded if you cancel your reservation between 45 and 75 days before departure; the grace period varies from line to line. If you cancel later than that, you will forfeit some or all of your deposit. An average cancellation charge is the deposit amount 30 to 45 days before sailing, 50% of the fare between 15 and 30 days prior to departure, 75% of the fare between 7 and 14 days ahead of sailing, and often 100% of the fare 7 days or less ahead of time. If you simply fail to show up when the ship sails, you will lose the entire amount. The sales cancellation policies of most cruise lines are available at the i-cruise.com. Many travel agents also assess a small cancellation fee.
Deposit
Most cruises must be reserved with a refundable deposit of $100-$600 per person, depending upon how expensive and how long the cruise is, due generally within seven days of making the reservation; the balance is due 45-90 days before you sail. If the cruise is less than 60 days away, however, you may have to pay the entire amount immediately.
Payment
Once you have made a reservation for a cabin, you will be asked to put down a deposit. Handing money over to your travel agent constitutes a contract, so before you pay, review the cruise brochure to find out the provisions of the cruise contract. What is the payment schedule and cancellation policy? Will there be any additional charges before you can board your ship, such as transfers, port fees, or local taxes? If your air connection requires you to spend an evening in a hotel near the port before or after the cruise, is there an extra cost?
Ways to Save Money
Getting the Best Cruise for Your Dollar
By selecting the right agent, you have the greatest chance of getting the best deal. But having a basic knowledge of how and why cruises are discounted will benefit you in the end. Since your vacation experience can vary greatly depending on the ship and its ports of call, it's best to pick your vessel and itinerary first, and then try to get the best price. Remember, it's only a good deal if the cruise you book, no matter what the price, meets your expectations.
Each cruise has a brochure list price. But like the sticker price on a new car, nobody actually pays this amount. These days, if you asked any 10 cruise passengers on any given ship what they paid, they would give you 10 different answers. Discounts from cruise lines and agencies can range from 5% on a single fare to 50% on the second fare in a cabin.
Approach deep discounts with skepticism. Fewer than a dozen cabins may be offered at the discounted price, they may be inside cabins, and the fare may not include air transportation or transfers between the airport and the ship.
Deals and Discounts
Seasonal Discounts. Cruise-brochure prices are typically divided into three categories based on the popularity of sailing dates and weather: high season, shoulder season, and low season. (Some lines divide their Alaska sailings into five seasons.) Obviously, prices will be higher for a Caribbean sailing in December than for the same sailing in August. Before you take advantage of a low-season rate, think about the pros and cons of off-season travel. It may be hotter (or colder) than you'd prefer -- but it also may be less crowded.
Off-season sailings always cost less, but even within the off-season, prices for different departure dates can differ considerably. Two of the major cruise lines, for instance, price their seven-day cruises in six different "seasons." The difference from the highest "high season" to the lowest "low season" can be considerable. Again, this is for the same ship on the same itinerary.
For some destinations, it may be harder to get a seasonal deal. For places like the Amazon, there is only one cruise season and it's short; the rest of the year, it's is too hot or too rainy to cruise. Some lines have departures for Canada and New England only from August through October; there may be only two or three fall foliage cruises a year. If you want to cruise Antarctica, you can do so only during the austral summer, which coincides with the North American winter. Departures typically begin in December and run through February.
Early-Bird Specials. More than ever, it's important to book early. This is especially true for the newest ships and for cabins with private verandas -- both sell out quickly. If you wait to book, you'll probably pay more even if you don't get shut out from the ship or cabin of your choice.
That's because almost all cruise lines provide a discount for passengers who book and put down a deposit far in advance; an additional discount may be provided if payment is made in full at the time of booking. These discounts, given to passengers who book at least six months before departure, range from 10% to 50% off the brochure rate. (Brochures are usually issued a year or more in advance of sailing dates.) Cruises to some of the more exotic destinations, such as Southeast Asia, are sometimes sold on a two-for-the-price-of-one basis from the outset. Most early-booking discounts in the Caribbean include round-trip airfare.
As the sailing date approaches, the price of a cruise tends to go up. Not only that, but as the ship fills, the best cabins are no longer available and you'll be less likely to get the meal seating of your choice. So it certainly pays to book early.
Last-Minute Savings. If a particular cruise is not selling well, a cruise line may pick certain large cruise-only travel agencies to unload unsold cabins. Keep in mind that your choice of cabin and meal seating is limited for such last-minute deals. On older ships -- those built before the 1980s -- special deals may be limited to smaller cabins in undesirable areas of the ship. Last-minute deals may be available only to people living in certain cities. For example, people in Vancouver may get a break on a cruise to Alaska. People in Miami may get a deal on a cruise to the Bahamas. Or people who live in Kansas City may get a discount on a cruise to the Caribbean -- because the cruise line booked too many plane tickets. Typically, these specials are unadvertised, but they may be listed in the agencies' newsletters and on their cruise telephone hot lines or Web sites.
Mixed Bag. Besides the major discounts mentioned above, agencies and cruise lines might attract passengers with price promotions such as "Sail for 12 Days and Pay for Only 10," "Free Hotel Stay with Your Cruise," and "Two Sail for the Price of One." Read the fine print before you book. The offer may be a bargain -- or just slick advertising. How can you tell? Compare the advertised price to the standard early-booking discount, and check if the promotion includes airfare. Free or discounted air on cruise-only prices are common for Caribbean sailings. Also check on senior-citizen discounts and "cruise dollars" accrued on participating credit cards. Cruise lines that target families sometimes take on a third or fourth cabin passenger for free. Some of the best cruise prices are available on repositioning cruises, when, for example, ships move from their summer cruising ground to their winter cruising ground and vice versa (between Alaska or Europe and the Caribbean, for example).
Upgrades. There are two types of cabin upgrades: One is guaranteed; the other is not. The first kind of upgrade is a promotional offer by the cruise line. For example, you may be offered a two-category upgrade if you book by a certain date. In this case, the cabin assignment that you receive with your documents prior to sailing should reflect your better accommodations. The second kind of upgrade is dispensed on board at the discretion of the cruise line. Like airlines, cruise lines overbook at their cheapest price in order to attract as many passengers as possible. When the number of bookings at these low rates exceeds the number of cabins available, some people are given better accommodations. How does the cruise line decide? Sometimes, those passengers who booked early get priority for upgrades. Other times, passengers who booked through top-selling travel agencies are at the top of the upgrade list -- just two more reasons to book early and book with a cruise-only agency that does a lot of business with your line.
By selecting the right agent, you have the greatest chance of getting the best deal. But having a basic knowledge of how and why cruises are discounted will benefit you in the end. Since your vacation experience can vary greatly depending on the ship and its ports of call, it's best to pick your vessel and itinerary first, and then try to get the best price. Remember, it's only a good deal if the cruise you book, no matter what the price, meets your expectations.
Each cruise has a brochure list price. But like the sticker price on a new car, nobody actually pays this amount. These days, if you asked any 10 cruise passengers on any given ship what they paid, they would give you 10 different answers. Discounts from cruise lines and agencies can range from 5% on a single fare to 50% on the second fare in a cabin.
Approach deep discounts with skepticism. Fewer than a dozen cabins may be offered at the discounted price, they may be inside cabins, and the fare may not include air transportation or transfers between the airport and the ship.
Deals and Discounts
Seasonal Discounts. Cruise-brochure prices are typically divided into three categories based on the popularity of sailing dates and weather: high season, shoulder season, and low season. (Some lines divide their Alaska sailings into five seasons.) Obviously, prices will be higher for a Caribbean sailing in December than for the same sailing in August. Before you take advantage of a low-season rate, think about the pros and cons of off-season travel. It may be hotter (or colder) than you'd prefer -- but it also may be less crowded.
Off-season sailings always cost less, but even within the off-season, prices for different departure dates can differ considerably. Two of the major cruise lines, for instance, price their seven-day cruises in six different "seasons." The difference from the highest "high season" to the lowest "low season" can be considerable. Again, this is for the same ship on the same itinerary.For some destinations, it may be harder to get a seasonal deal. For places like the Amazon, there is only one cruise season and it's short; the rest of the year, it's is too hot or too rainy to cruise. Some lines have departures for Canada and New England only from August through October; there may be only two or three fall foliage cruises a year. If you want to cruise Antarctica, you can do so only during the austral summer, which coincides with the North American winter. Departures typically begin in December and run through February.
Early-Bird Specials. More than ever, it's important to book early. This is especially true for the newest ships and for cabins with private verandas -- both sell out quickly. If you wait to book, you'll probably pay more even if you don't get shut out from the ship or cabin of your choice.
That's because almost all cruise lines provide a discount for passengers who book and put down a deposit far in advance; an additional discount may be provided if payment is made in full at the time of booking. These discounts, given to passengers who book at least six months before departure, range from 10% to 50% off the brochure rate. (Brochures are usually issued a year or more in advance of sailing dates.) Cruises to some of the more exotic destinations, such as Southeast Asia, are sometimes sold on a two-for-the-price-of-one basis from the outset. Most early-booking discounts in the Caribbean include round-trip airfare.As the sailing date approaches, the price of a cruise tends to go up. Not only that, but as the ship fills, the best cabins are no longer available and you'll be less likely to get the meal seating of your choice. So it certainly pays to book early.
Last-Minute Savings. If a particular cruise is not selling well, a cruise line may pick certain large cruise-only travel agencies to unload unsold cabins. Keep in mind that your choice of cabin and meal seating is limited for such last-minute deals. On older ships -- those built before the 1980s -- special deals may be limited to smaller cabins in undesirable areas of the ship. Last-minute deals may be available only to people living in certain cities. For example, people in Vancouver may get a break on a cruise to Alaska. People in Miami may get a deal on a cruise to the Bahamas. Or people who live in Kansas City may get a discount on a cruise to the Caribbean -- because the cruise line booked too many plane tickets. Typically, these specials are unadvertised, but they may be listed in the agencies' newsletters and on their cruise telephone hot lines or Web sites.
Mixed Bag. Besides the major discounts mentioned above, agencies and cruise lines might attract passengers with price promotions such as "Sail for 12 Days and Pay for Only 10," "Free Hotel Stay with Your Cruise," and "Two Sail for the Price of One." Read the fine print before you book. The offer may be a bargain -- or just slick advertising. How can you tell? Compare the advertised price to the standard early-booking discount, and check if the promotion includes airfare. Free or discounted air on cruise-only prices are common for Caribbean sailings. Also check on senior-citizen discounts and "cruise dollars" accrued on participating credit cards. Cruise lines that target families sometimes take on a third or fourth cabin passenger for free. Some of the best cruise prices are available on repositioning cruises, when, for example, ships move from their summer cruising ground to their winter cruising ground and vice versa (between Alaska or Europe and the Caribbean, for example).
Upgrades. There are two types of cabin upgrades: One is guaranteed; the other is not. The first kind of upgrade is a promotional offer by the cruise line. For example, you may be offered a two-category upgrade if you book by a certain date. In this case, the cabin assignment that you receive with your documents prior to sailing should reflect your better accommodations. The second kind of upgrade is dispensed on board at the discretion of the cruise line. Like airlines, cruise lines overbook at their cheapest price in order to attract as many passengers as possible. When the number of bookings at these low rates exceeds the number of cabins available, some people are given better accommodations. How does the cruise line decide? Sometimes, those passengers who booked early get priority for upgrades. Other times, passengers who booked through top-selling travel agencies are at the top of the upgrade list -- just two more reasons to book early and book with a cruise-only agency that does a lot of business with your line.
Spotting Swindlers
Although one is far more likely to encounter incompetent travel agents than scam artists, it's important to be on the lookout for a con. The best way to avoid being fleeced, if you don't have an established relationship with a travel agent, is to pay for your cruise with a credit card, from deposit to full payment. That way, if an agency goes out of business before your cruise departs, you can cancel payment on services not rendered. An agency that doesn't accept credit cards may be a bad apple. Also be wary of any agency that wants an unusually high deposit (check the cruise brochure). To avoid a disreputable agency, make sure the one you choose has been in business for at least five years. Check its reputation with the local Better Business Bureau or state consumer protection agency before you pay any deposits. If a cruise price seems too good to be true, it probably is. It could mean the agency is desperate to bring in money and may close its doors tomorrow. So be wary of agencies that claim they can beat any price.
To sum up, here are some do's and don'ts when working with an agent:
To sum up, here are some do's and don'ts when working with an agent:
- Do keep an open mind.
- Do consider an agent's suggestions for different options.
- Do get any price quote in writing with all the details.
- Don't succumb to high-pressure sales tactics.
- Don't book a cruise on the spot -- wait a day.
- Don't book with an agency that offers you inexplicably low prices
Full-Service Agents
More and more, full-service agencies are focusing on cruising due to its growing popularity. And while many full-service agencies may not have the best cruise discounts at their fingertips, they may know where to look and how to negotiate with a cruise line for a good rate. When calling full-service agencies, look for one that has a "cruise" desk with agents who sell only cruises. Avoid agencies that try to steer you toward a land vacation instead of the cruise you really want.
Cruise-Only Agents
As the name implies, "cruise-only" travel agencies specialize in selling cruises. However, these agencies can sell you air tickets and other travel arrangements, too, as part of your cruise package. Sometimes, your choice may be limited to a package put together by the cruise line. Increasingly, though, cruise-only agencies are putting together their own custom-designed cruise vacations. Because they sell only cruises -- and because they sell so many cruises -- cruise-only agencies can generally get you the best deal.
Travel Agents
A good travel agent is the secret to a good cruise. Since nearly all cruises are sold through travel agents, the agent you choose to work with can be just as important as the ship you sail on. So how do you know if an agent or agency is right for you? Talk to friends, family, and colleagues who have used an agency to book a cruise. The most qualified agents are members of CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association). Agents who are CLIA Accredited Cruise Counsellors or Master Cruise Counsellors have had extensive cruise and ship inspection experience. If you opt for a cruise-only agency, it should also be a member of NACOA (National Association of Cruise-Only Agencies). These agents are also experienced cruisers. Finally, the most reputable agencies, both full-service and cruise-only, are members of ASTA (American Society of Travel Agents).
The size of a travel agency tends to matter less than the experience of its staff. A good cruise agent will ask you many detailed questions about your past vacations, your lifestyle, and even your friends and your hobbies. Only by getting to know you can an agent successfully match you to a ship and a cruise. Never book a cruise with an agent who asks a few cursory questions before handing you a brochure.
Conversely, think of an agent as your travel consultant. Ask the agent any questions you may have about cruising. Most travel agents who book cruises have cruised extensively, and they can help you to decide on a cruise line and a ship. If you have a problem with the cruise line before, during, or after your cruise, your travel agent can act as an intermediary.
Of course, you want the best price. However, it's important not to make price your single greatest concern. Value -- what you get for your money -- is just as important as the dollar amount you pay. Keep in mind that the advertised prices you see in newspapers are usually for the lowest grade cabin. A better cabin -- one with a window and maybe a private veranda -- is likely to cost more. However, it pays to be wary of agencies that quote prices that are much higher than advertised. It's a bad sign when an agency's ads are blatant lies to get you in the door.
Perhaps the best way to shop for a cruise is to decide first on a cruise line and ship, and then to shop for an agency. Most agencies have "partnerships" with certain cruise lines, which can work to your advantage. By agreeing to sell a lot of cabins (and, of course, promoting certain cruise lines), the agency gets a better rate from them. The agency can then afford to offer a "discounted" price to the public.
The agencies willing to go the extra mile for their clients are the best agencies. This means providing free cruise-discount newsletters, cabin upgrades, dollar-stretching advice, and, possibly most important of all, 24-hour service in case of a problem.
The size of a travel agency tends to matter less than the experience of its staff. A good cruise agent will ask you many detailed questions about your past vacations, your lifestyle, and even your friends and your hobbies. Only by getting to know you can an agent successfully match you to a ship and a cruise. Never book a cruise with an agent who asks a few cursory questions before handing you a brochure.Conversely, think of an agent as your travel consultant. Ask the agent any questions you may have about cruising. Most travel agents who book cruises have cruised extensively, and they can help you to decide on a cruise line and a ship. If you have a problem with the cruise line before, during, or after your cruise, your travel agent can act as an intermediary.
Of course, you want the best price. However, it's important not to make price your single greatest concern. Value -- what you get for your money -- is just as important as the dollar amount you pay. Keep in mind that the advertised prices you see in newspapers are usually for the lowest grade cabin. A better cabin -- one with a window and maybe a private veranda -- is likely to cost more. However, it pays to be wary of agencies that quote prices that are much higher than advertised. It's a bad sign when an agency's ads are blatant lies to get you in the door.
Perhaps the best way to shop for a cruise is to decide first on a cruise line and ship, and then to shop for an agency. Most agencies have "partnerships" with certain cruise lines, which can work to your advantage. By agreeing to sell a lot of cabins (and, of course, promoting certain cruise lines), the agency gets a better rate from them. The agency can then afford to offer a "discounted" price to the public.
The agencies willing to go the extra mile for their clients are the best agencies. This means providing free cruise-discount newsletters, cabin upgrades, dollar-stretching advice, and, possibly most important of all, 24-hour service in case of a problem.
For Gay and Lesbians
There are many things to consider when choosing a gay cruise.Some cruise lines are more gay-friendly than others, so consult one of the companies listed below.
Tour Operators and Travel Agencies
Some of the largest agencies serving gay travelers are Kennedy Travel (314 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY 11001, tel. 516/352-4888 or 800/237-7433, fax 516/354-8849), Now, Voyager (4406 18th St., San Francisco, CA 94114, tel. 415/626-1169 or 800/255-6951, fax 415/626-8626), Pied Piper (330 W. 42nd St., Suite 1804, New York, NY 10036, tel. 212/239-2412 or 800/874--7312, fax 212/239-2275) (specializing in gay and lesbian group cruises on the major lines), and Rainbow Travel (1055 Monroe St., Santa Clara, CA 95050, tel. 408/246-1414 or 800/595-0881, fax 408/983-0677). For cruise-only agencies, try Gay Cruise Vacations (tel. 888/367-9398) or Cruising with Pride Cruises & Resorts (535 Anton Blvd., Suite 160, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, tel. 714/540-8005 or 800/627-8726, fax 714/979-8823).
Tour operators that specialize in gay and lesbian travel include RSVP Productions (2535 25th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406, tel. 800/328-7787), which operates many cruises, Olivia Cruises & Resorts (4400 Market St., Oakland, CA 94608, tel. 800/631-6277, fax 510/655-4334), which focuses on lesbian travelers, and Atlantis Events (9060 Santa Monica Blvd., Suite 310, West Hollywood, CA 90069, tel. 310/281-5450 or 800/628-5268, fax 310/281-5455), which offers all-gay cruises.
You can also contact the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGTLA; 52 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Suite 237, Wilton Manors, FL 33311, tel. 800/448-8550, fax 954/776-3303), which has more than 1,500 travel-industry members.
For Seniors
For older travelers, cruise vacations strike an excellent balance: they offer a tremendous variety of activities and destinations in one convenient package. You can do as much or as little as you want, meet new people, see new places, enjoy entertainment, games, and fine dining---all within the same environment. Cruises are not a good idea for those who are bedridden, have a serious medical condition that is likely to flare up on board, or are prone to periods of confusion or severe memory loss.
No particular rules apply to senior citizens on cruises, but certain freighter cruises do have an age limit. Those who want a leisurely, relaxed pace will probably be happiest on ships that attract a higher percentage of older passengers: luxury ocean liners, cruise yachts, and expedition ships on voyages of longer than seven days. Passengers who have limited mobility should look for a ship whose public rooms are clustered on one deck and select a cabin near an elevator or stairway midship. Be careful not to book a cabin with upper and lower berths.
Several cruise lines have reduced rates for senior citizens (sometimes only on certain sailings), and seniors may be able to take advantage of local discounts ashore. When in port, showing proof of age often results in reduced admissions, half fares on public transportation, and special dining rates.
Quite a few cruise lines employ "gentleman hosts," who act as dancing and bridge partners for single ladies traveling alone.
Tour Operators for Older Passengers
Saga International Holidays (222 Berkeley St., Boston, MA 02116, tel. 877/265--6862) specializes in tours and cruises for travelers 50 and older and has its own cruise ship, the Saga Rose. SeniorTours (508 Irvington Rd., Drexel Hill, PA 19026, tel. 800/227--1100) arranges cruises. World of Knowledge Tours (107 222nd St. SW, Bothell, WA 98021, tel. 800/453--9283, e-mail info@seniorsatsea.com) provides escorted tours on cruise ships for adults over 50. SeaTurtle Cruises (260 Rain Tree Rd., Sedona, AZ 86351, tel. 800/536--9383, fax 520/284--5036, e-mail seaturtles@kachina.net) has cruise vacations for seniors and people with special medical needs. Vantage Deluxe World Travel (90 Canal St., Boston, MA 02114-2031, tel. 800/322--6677, fax 617/878--6154, e-mail journeys@vantagetravel.com) provides escorted land tours, river cruises, and ocean cruises for mature travelers. White Star Tours (26 E. Lancaster Ave., Reading, PA 19607, tel. 610/775--5000 or 800/437--2323, fax 610/775--7155) arranges senior group tours and cruises. Fun & Fitness Travel Club (7338 Dartford Dr., Suite 9, McLean, VA 22102, tel. 800/273--7607 or 800/955--9942) specializes in senior fitness cruises. Elderhostel, Inc. (11 Ave. de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111-1746, tel. 877/426-8056, TTY 877/426-2167, fax 877/426-2166) is a non-for-profit organization that offers educational travel programs for adults 55 and over, including many cruises. The AARP (601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, tel. 800/424--3410) is a good source for senior travel information, and offers a discount travel program. Its Web site includes travel stories, tips, and an interactive bulletin board.
No particular rules apply to senior citizens on cruises, but certain freighter cruises do have an age limit. Those who want a leisurely, relaxed pace will probably be happiest on ships that attract a higher percentage of older passengers: luxury ocean liners, cruise yachts, and expedition ships on voyages of longer than seven days. Passengers who have limited mobility should look for a ship whose public rooms are clustered on one deck and select a cabin near an elevator or stairway midship. Be careful not to book a cabin with upper and lower berths.Several cruise lines have reduced rates for senior citizens (sometimes only on certain sailings), and seniors may be able to take advantage of local discounts ashore. When in port, showing proof of age often results in reduced admissions, half fares on public transportation, and special dining rates.
Quite a few cruise lines employ "gentleman hosts," who act as dancing and bridge partners for single ladies traveling alone.
Tour Operators for Older Passengers
Saga International Holidays (222 Berkeley St., Boston, MA 02116, tel. 877/265--6862) specializes in tours and cruises for travelers 50 and older and has its own cruise ship, the Saga Rose. SeniorTours (508 Irvington Rd., Drexel Hill, PA 19026, tel. 800/227--1100) arranges cruises. World of Knowledge Tours (107 222nd St. SW, Bothell, WA 98021, tel. 800/453--9283, e-mail info@seniorsatsea.com) provides escorted tours on cruise ships for adults over 50. SeaTurtle Cruises (260 Rain Tree Rd., Sedona, AZ 86351, tel. 800/536--9383, fax 520/284--5036, e-mail seaturtles@kachina.net) has cruise vacations for seniors and people with special medical needs. Vantage Deluxe World Travel (90 Canal St., Boston, MA 02114-2031, tel. 800/322--6677, fax 617/878--6154, e-mail journeys@vantagetravel.com) provides escorted land tours, river cruises, and ocean cruises for mature travelers. White Star Tours (26 E. Lancaster Ave., Reading, PA 19607, tel. 610/775--5000 or 800/437--2323, fax 610/775--7155) arranges senior group tours and cruises. Fun & Fitness Travel Club (7338 Dartford Dr., Suite 9, McLean, VA 22102, tel. 800/273--7607 or 800/955--9942) specializes in senior fitness cruises. Elderhostel, Inc. (11 Ave. de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111-1746, tel. 877/426-8056, TTY 877/426-2167, fax 877/426-2166) is a non-for-profit organization that offers educational travel programs for adults 55 and over, including many cruises. The AARP (601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, tel. 800/424--3410) is a good source for senior travel information, and offers a discount travel program. Its Web site includes travel stories, tips, and an interactive bulletin board.
For Seniors
For older travelers, cruise vacations strike an excellent balance: they offer a tremendous variety of activities and destinations in one convenient package. You can do as much or as little as you want, meet new people, see new places, enjoy entertainment, games, and fine dining---all within the same environment. Cruises are not a good idea for those who are bedridden, have a serious medical condition that is likely to flare up on board, or are prone to periods of confusion or severe memory loss.
No particular rules apply to senior citizens on cruises, but certain freighter cruises do have an age limit. Those who want a leisurely, relaxed pace will probably be happiest on ships that attract a higher percentage of older passengers: luxury ocean liners, cruise yachts, and expedition ships on voyages of longer than seven days. Passengers who have limited mobility should look for a ship whose public rooms are clustered on one deck and select a cabin near an elevator or stairway midship. Be careful not to book a cabin with upper and lower berths.
Several cruise lines have reduced rates for senior citizens (sometimes only on certain sailings), and seniors may be able to take advantage of local discounts ashore. When in port, showing proof of age often results in reduced admissions, half fares on public transportation, and special dining rates.
Quite a few cruise lines employ "gentleman hosts," who act as dancing and bridge partners for single ladies traveling alone.
Tour Operators for Older Passengers
Saga International Holidays (222 Berkeley St., Boston, MA 02116, tel. 877/265--6862) specializes in tours and cruises for travelers 50 and older and has its own cruise ship, the Saga Rose. SeniorTours (508 Irvington Rd., Drexel Hill, PA 19026, tel. 800/227--1100) arranges cruises. World of Knowledge Tours (107 222nd St. SW, Bothell, WA 98021, tel. 800/453--9283, e-mail info@seniorsatsea.com) provides escorted tours on cruise ships for adults over 50. SeaTurtle Cruises (260 Rain Tree Rd., Sedona, AZ 86351, tel. 800/536--9383, fax 520/284--5036, e-mail seaturtles@kachina.net) has cruise vacations for seniors and people with special medical needs. Vantage Deluxe World Travel (90 Canal St., Boston, MA 02114-2031, tel. 800/322--6677, fax 617/878--6154, e-mail journeys@vantagetravel.com) provides escorted land tours, river cruises, and ocean cruises for mature travelers. White Star Tours (26 E. Lancaster Ave., Reading, PA 19607, tel. 610/775--5000 or 800/437--2323, fax 610/775--7155) arranges senior group tours and cruises. Fun & Fitness Travel Club (7338 Dartford Dr., Suite 9, McLean, VA 22102, tel. 800/273--7607 or 800/955--9942) specializes in senior fitness cruises. Elderhostel, Inc. (11 Ave. de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111-1746, tel. 877/426-8056, TTY 877/426-2167, fax 877/426-2166) is a non-for-profit organization that offers educational travel programs for adults 55 and over, including many cruises. The AARP (601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, tel. 800/424--3410) is a good source for senior travel information, and offers a discount travel program. Its Web site includes travel stories, tips, and an interactive bulletin board.
No particular rules apply to senior citizens on cruises, but certain freighter cruises do have an age limit. Those who want a leisurely, relaxed pace will probably be happiest on ships that attract a higher percentage of older passengers: luxury ocean liners, cruise yachts, and expedition ships on voyages of longer than seven days. Passengers who have limited mobility should look for a ship whose public rooms are clustered on one deck and select a cabin near an elevator or stairway midship. Be careful not to book a cabin with upper and lower berths.
Several cruise lines have reduced rates for senior citizens (sometimes only on certain sailings), and seniors may be able to take advantage of local discounts ashore. When in port, showing proof of age often results in reduced admissions, half fares on public transportation, and special dining rates.
Quite a few cruise lines employ "gentleman hosts," who act as dancing and bridge partners for single ladies traveling alone.
Tour Operators for Older Passengers
Saga International Holidays (222 Berkeley St., Boston, MA 02116, tel. 877/265--6862) specializes in tours and cruises for travelers 50 and older and has its own cruise ship, the Saga Rose. SeniorTours (508 Irvington Rd., Drexel Hill, PA 19026, tel. 800/227--1100) arranges cruises. World of Knowledge Tours (107 222nd St. SW, Bothell, WA 98021, tel. 800/453--9283, e-mail info@seniorsatsea.com) provides escorted tours on cruise ships for adults over 50. SeaTurtle Cruises (260 Rain Tree Rd., Sedona, AZ 86351, tel. 800/536--9383, fax 520/284--5036, e-mail seaturtles@kachina.net) has cruise vacations for seniors and people with special medical needs. Vantage Deluxe World Travel (90 Canal St., Boston, MA 02114-2031, tel. 800/322--6677, fax 617/878--6154, e-mail journeys@vantagetravel.com) provides escorted land tours, river cruises, and ocean cruises for mature travelers. White Star Tours (26 E. Lancaster Ave., Reading, PA 19607, tel. 610/775--5000 or 800/437--2323, fax 610/775--7155) arranges senior group tours and cruises. Fun & Fitness Travel Club (7338 Dartford Dr., Suite 9, McLean, VA 22102, tel. 800/273--7607 or 800/955--9942) specializes in senior fitness cruises. Elderhostel, Inc. (11 Ave. de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111-1746, tel. 877/426-8056, TTY 877/426-2167, fax 877/426-2166) is a non-for-profit organization that offers educational travel programs for adults 55 and over, including many cruises. The AARP (601 E St. NW, Washington, DC 20049, tel. 800/424--3410) is a good source for senior travel information, and offers a discount travel program. Its Web site includes travel stories, tips, and an interactive bulletin board.
For Passengers With Disabilities
The official position of the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL; 2111 Wilson Blvd., 8th Fl., Arlington, VA 22201, tel. 703/522--8463 or 800/595-9338, fax 703/522--3811, e-mail icclinfo@iccl.org), which is based in Washington, D.C., and represents the cruise industry, is that the Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply to cruise ships. The council argues that most cruise ships, as foreign-flag vessels, are not subject to domestic U.S. laws governing construction and design. The ICCL follows the direction of the International Maritime Organization (IMO; 4 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7SR, tel. 020/7735-7611, fax 020/7587-3210, e-mail info@imo.org), which recommends safety, design, and construction guidelines for elderly and disabled passengers. From 1998 to 2000, the ICCL participated on the Passenger Vessel Accessibility Advisory Committee (PVAAC), a committee of the U.S. Access Board (1331 F St., NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20004, tel. 800/872--2253 or 202/272--5434, fax 202/272--5447, e-mail info@access-board.gov), which was created to provide recommendations for accessibility guidelines on passenger vessels; its final report was presented in November 2000. The Access Board is in the process of preparing accessibility guidelines based on the Committee's report.
According to the ICCL, many of its member lines are currently building new ships that will be extremely accessible, as well as modifying many of the existing ships. Nevertheless, disclaimers in every cruise brochure allow ships to refuse passage to anyone whose disability might endanger others. Most ships require that you travel with an able-bodied companion if you use a wheelchair or have mobility problems.
If you do have a mobility problem, even if you do not use a wheelchair, tell your travel agent. Each cruise line sets its own policies; choose the line that is most accommodating. Also be careful to select a ship that is easy to get around. Ships vary even within the fleet of the same line. Follow up by making sure that the cruise line is fully informed of your disability and any special needs, and ask if the ship has a full-time physician on board. (Virtually all major cruise ships have a doctor on call.) Get written confirmation of any promises that have been made to you about a special cabin or transfers to and from the airport. The line may request a letter from your doctor stating that you need neither a wheelchair nor a companion, or that you will not require special medical attention on board.
If you have any type of chronic health problem that may require medical attention, notify the ship's doctor soon after you board so he or she will be prepared to treat you appropriately, if necessary.
Passengers Using Wheelchairs
Newer cruise ships have been built with accessibility in mind, and many older ships have been modified to accommodate passengers using wheelchairs. The key areas to be concerned about
are public rooms, outer decks, and, of course, your cabin. If you need a specially equipped cabin, book as far in advance as possible and ask specific questions of your travel agent or a cruise-line representative. Specifically, ask how your cabin is configured and equipped. Is the entrance level or ramped? Are all doorways at least 30 inches wide (wider if your wheelchair is not a standard size)? Are pathways to beds, closets, and bathrooms at least 36 inches wide and unobstructed? In the bathroom, is there a 42-inch clear space in front of the toilet and are there grab bars behind and on one side of it and in the bathtub or shower? Ask whether there is a three-prong outlet in the cabin, and whether the bathroom has a handheld showerhead, a bath bench, or roll-in shower or shower stall with fold-down seat, if you need them. Are elevators wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs?
The best cruise ship for passengers who use wheelchairs is one that ties up right at the dock at every port, at which time a ramp or even an elevator is always made available. Unfortunately, it's hard to ascertain this in advance, for a ship may tie up at the dock at a particular port on one voyage and, on the next, anchor in the harbor and have passengers transported to shore via tender. Ask your travel agent to find out which ships are scheduled to dock on which cruises. If a tender is used, some ships will have crew members carry the wheelchair and passenger from the ship to the tender. Unfortunately, other ships point-blank refuse to take wheelchairs on tenders, especially if the water is choppy. At some ports, ships always use a tender because docking facilities are unavailable.
Passengers with Vision Impairments
Some ships allow guide dogs to accompany passengers with vision impairments; however, if your cruise is scheduled to visit foreign ports (as most do), you may not be able to take a guide dog ashore, depending on the country. To avoid potential quarantine upon returning to the United States, guide dogs should have their shots updated within seven days of sailing, and owners should carry the dog's valid health and rabies certificates.
Hawaii is especially strict about importing animals. No dog, not even a guide dog, may step ashore without being quarantined for at least 30 days unless it arrives from an area recognized by the state as rabies-free. Guide dogs may remain aboard visiting ships during port calls for up to 48 hours. That period begins upon docking at the first Hawaiian port and includes all time spent in Hawaiian waters.
Pregnant Women
Considering advanced pregnancy a disability, cruise lines may refuse passage to pregnant women. "Advanced" usually refers to the third trimester. If you are pregnant, check on the cruise line's policy before you book passage.
Travel Agencies and Tour Operators for Passengers with Disabilities
Accessible Journeys (35 W. Sellers Ave., Ridley Park, PA 19078, tel. 800/846-4537 or 610/521-0339, fax 610/521-6959, e-mail sales@disabilitytravel.com) designs accessible vacations, arranges escorted trips for travelers with disabilities, and provides licensed health-care professionals to accompany those who require aid. ADA Medical Travel (5184 Majorca Club Dr., Boca Raton, FL 33486, tel. 800/778-7953, fax 561/361-9385, e-mail ada@medicaltravel.org) offers dialysis and oxygen cruises and tours, accessible and escorted cruises, and information about accessible cruise lines. Flying Wheels Travel (143 W. Bridge St., Owatonna, MN 55060, tel. 800/535-6790 or 507/451-5005, TTY/fax 507/451-1685, e-mail thq@ll.net) is a travel agency specializing in accessible cruises and escorted tours for people with limited mobility. In the U.K., try Travelability Ltd. (The Ferns, Framilode, Gloucester, England, U.K. GL2 7LH, tel. 1452/740-820, fax 1452/740-898, e-mail travable@aol.com,), which specializes in accessible cruising from U.K. ports. Access-Able Travel Source (P.O. Box 1796, Wheat Ridge, CO 80034, tel. 303/232-2979, fax 303/239-8486, e-mail access-able@home.com) provides extensive information for mature and disabled travelers, including travel tips and forums, travel agent and tour operator listings, and a database of cruise ships with accessible facilities.
According to the ICCL, many of its member lines are currently building new ships that will be extremely accessible, as well as modifying many of the existing ships. Nevertheless, disclaimers in every cruise brochure allow ships to refuse passage to anyone whose disability might endanger others. Most ships require that you travel with an able-bodied companion if you use a wheelchair or have mobility problems.
If you do have a mobility problem, even if you do not use a wheelchair, tell your travel agent. Each cruise line sets its own policies; choose the line that is most accommodating. Also be careful to select a ship that is easy to get around. Ships vary even within the fleet of the same line. Follow up by making sure that the cruise line is fully informed of your disability and any special needs, and ask if the ship has a full-time physician on board. (Virtually all major cruise ships have a doctor on call.) Get written confirmation of any promises that have been made to you about a special cabin or transfers to and from the airport. The line may request a letter from your doctor stating that you need neither a wheelchair nor a companion, or that you will not require special medical attention on board.
If you have any type of chronic health problem that may require medical attention, notify the ship's doctor soon after you board so he or she will be prepared to treat you appropriately, if necessary.
Passengers Using Wheelchairs
Newer cruise ships have been built with accessibility in mind, and many older ships have been modified to accommodate passengers using wheelchairs. The key areas to be concerned about
are public rooms, outer decks, and, of course, your cabin. If you need a specially equipped cabin, book as far in advance as possible and ask specific questions of your travel agent or a cruise-line representative. Specifically, ask how your cabin is configured and equipped. Is the entrance level or ramped? Are all doorways at least 30 inches wide (wider if your wheelchair is not a standard size)? Are pathways to beds, closets, and bathrooms at least 36 inches wide and unobstructed? In the bathroom, is there a 42-inch clear space in front of the toilet and are there grab bars behind and on one side of it and in the bathtub or shower? Ask whether there is a three-prong outlet in the cabin, and whether the bathroom has a handheld showerhead, a bath bench, or roll-in shower or shower stall with fold-down seat, if you need them. Are elevators wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs?The best cruise ship for passengers who use wheelchairs is one that ties up right at the dock at every port, at which time a ramp or even an elevator is always made available. Unfortunately, it's hard to ascertain this in advance, for a ship may tie up at the dock at a particular port on one voyage and, on the next, anchor in the harbor and have passengers transported to shore via tender. Ask your travel agent to find out which ships are scheduled to dock on which cruises. If a tender is used, some ships will have crew members carry the wheelchair and passenger from the ship to the tender. Unfortunately, other ships point-blank refuse to take wheelchairs on tenders, especially if the water is choppy. At some ports, ships always use a tender because docking facilities are unavailable.
Passengers with Vision Impairments
Some ships allow guide dogs to accompany passengers with vision impairments; however, if your cruise is scheduled to visit foreign ports (as most do), you may not be able to take a guide dog ashore, depending on the country. To avoid potential quarantine upon returning to the United States, guide dogs should have their shots updated within seven days of sailing, and owners should carry the dog's valid health and rabies certificates.
Hawaii is especially strict about importing animals. No dog, not even a guide dog, may step ashore without being quarantined for at least 30 days unless it arrives from an area recognized by the state as rabies-free. Guide dogs may remain aboard visiting ships during port calls for up to 48 hours. That period begins upon docking at the first Hawaiian port and includes all time spent in Hawaiian waters.
Pregnant Women
Considering advanced pregnancy a disability, cruise lines may refuse passage to pregnant women. "Advanced" usually refers to the third trimester. If you are pregnant, check on the cruise line's policy before you book passage.
Travel Agencies and Tour Operators for Passengers with Disabilities
Accessible Journeys (35 W. Sellers Ave., Ridley Park, PA 19078, tel. 800/846-4537 or 610/521-0339, fax 610/521-6959, e-mail sales@disabilitytravel.com) designs accessible vacations, arranges escorted trips for travelers with disabilities, and provides licensed health-care professionals to accompany those who require aid. ADA Medical Travel (5184 Majorca Club Dr., Boca Raton, FL 33486, tel. 800/778-7953, fax 561/361-9385, e-mail ada@medicaltravel.org) offers dialysis and oxygen cruises and tours, accessible and escorted cruises, and information about accessible cruise lines. Flying Wheels Travel (143 W. Bridge St., Owatonna, MN 55060, tel. 800/535-6790 or 507/451-5005, TTY/fax 507/451-1685, e-mail thq@ll.net) is a travel agency specializing in accessible cruises and escorted tours for people with limited mobility. In the U.K., try Travelability Ltd. (The Ferns, Framilode, Gloucester, England, U.K. GL2 7LH, tel. 1452/740-820, fax 1452/740-898, e-mail travable@aol.com,), which specializes in accessible cruising from U.K. ports. Access-Able Travel Source (P.O. Box 1796, Wheat Ridge, CO 80034, tel. 303/232-2979, fax 303/239-8486, e-mail access-able@home.com) provides extensive information for mature and disabled travelers, including travel tips and forums, travel agent and tour operator listings, and a database of cruise ships with accessible facilities.
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