Whether you are a frequent cruiser, or you are planning your very first adventure. Here is our reply to the most frequently asked questions. Click any question to go directly to the response. When Will Travel Documents Arrive? Do I Need A Passport? Should I Take An Air/Sea Package? Airline Seat Selection? Can I Have Assigned Seats? Can I Use My Frequent Flyer Miles? How Do I Schedule The Return Flight? Why Should Trip I Buy Insurance? What Do I Do If I Have A Claim At Sea? What Documents Are Required For Non-U.S. Citizens? What Cruise Documents Will I Receive? Are Porters Available To Carry My Luggage? How Do I Request Personal Cabin Services? Can I Change My Dining Assignment? Is The Cost Of Meals Included In My Fare? Is Room Service Available? How Does The Tipping Work? Can I Have A Charge Accounts On Board? What Do I Wear On Board? What Can We Do While In Port? Are There Children's Program? Is There A Daily Information Sheet? What Should Pack? Is Motion Sickness A Problem? How Does Someone Contact Me On Board? How Much Luggage Is Allowed? What Is Tendering? How Do I Book A Shore Excursion? What Is The Procedure For Leaving The Ship? Is Breakfast Available At The End Of The Cruise? What Is The Best Way To Solve A Problem On-Board?! Should I Make Copies Of Important Documents? Are My Valuables Safe On Board? Do I Need To Carry Money Or Id On Shore Excursions Should I Consider A Money Belt When Ashore? Divide Your Cash! Keep Some Cash! Keep Ready Cash Where You Can Get To It When Ashore ! Be Conservative! Take A Practice Run! Have A Great Trip!
WHEN WILL TRAVEL DOCUMENTS ARRIVE? Cruise and airline documents are usually sent to us directly from the cruise line about 3 weeks prior to your sailing date. However, if you are traveling during Peak Season (December through April), documents may arrive only a few days prior to your sailing. We check the documents for accuracy, and forward the documents to you immediately.
DO I NEED A PASSPORT?
AIR TRAVEL
ALL PERSONS
traveling by air
outside of the United States
are required to present a
passport or other valid
travel document to enter or
re-enter the United States.
LAND AND SEA TRAVEL
The following summarizes
information available on the
Department of Homeland
Security’s website.
- CURRENTLY:
U.S. citizens need to
present either (a) a
passport, passport card
(scheduled to be in full
production beginning in
July 2008), or
WHTI-compliant document;
or (b) a
government-issued photo
ID, such as a driver’s
license, along with
proof of citizenship,
such as a birth
certificate.
- LATER:
On June 1, 2009, the
U.S. government will
implement the full
requirements of the land
and sea phase of WHTI.
The proposed rules
require most U.S.
citizens entering the
United States at sea or
land ports of entry to
have a passport,
passport card, or
WHTI-compliant document.
Note: The
passport requirement does
NOT apply
to U.S. citizens traveling
to or returning directly
from a
U.S. territory.
U.S.
PASSPORT AND WHTI
COMPLIANT DOCUMENTS:
- U.S.
Passport:
U.S. citizens may
present a valid U.S.
passport when traveling
via air, land or sea
between the U.S. and the
aforementioned Western
Hemisphere countries.
-
The Passport Card:
Passport card
applications are
currently being accepted
in anticipation of land
border travel document
requirements. Based on
current projections, we
expect the passport card
to be in full
production beginning in
July 2008. We will
provide additional
updates as available.
Once in production, the
passport card it will
only be valid for land
and sea travel between
the U.S. and Canada,
Mexico, the Caribbean
region, and Bermuda.
-
WHTI-Compliant Travel
Documents for U.S.
citizen travel via land
or sea, as of January
31, 2008:
-
- Trusted Traveler
Cards (NEXUS,
SENTRI, or FAST)
- State Issued
Enhanced Driver’s
License (when
available)
- Enhanced Tribal
Cards (when
available)
- U.S. Military
Identification with
Military Travel
Orders
- U.S. Merchant
Mariner Document
when traveling in
conjunction with
official maritime
business
- Native American
Tribal Photo
Identification Card
- Form I-872
American Indian Card
For further information see
U.S. Customs and Border
protection.
ABOUT WHTI
The Western Hemisphere
Travel Initiative is a
result of the Intelligence
Reform and Terrorism
Prevention Act of 2004
(IRTPA), requiring all
travelers to present a
passport or other document
that denotes identity and
citizenship when entering
the U.S.
The goal of the initiative
is to strengthen U.S. border
security while facilitating
entry for U.S. citizens and
legitimate foreign visitors
by providing standardized
documentation that enables
the
Department of Homeland
Security to quickly and
reliably identify a
traveler.
Federal Regulations
Other Relevant Links
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IMPORTANT NOTE: Travel by air to or from destinations outside of the United States will require a current passport, even if such air travel is to connect with a cruise ship. We recommend that all cruisers travel with a valid passport during their cruise. This will enable guests to fly from the U.S. to meet their ship at the first port should they miss their scheduled embarkation; and allow guests that must debark the ship before their cruise ends to fly back to the U.S. without significant delays and complications. Foreign nationals should contact their respective governments to obtain further details. For more information or to get a passport application, visit www.travel.state.gov. Should you need your passport right away, Passport Services offers 24-hour processing.
All guests must present the required documentation at embarkation. Guests without the required documentation will be denied boarding and no refund will be issued. Cruise Lines can be expected to strictly enforce these requirements to be in compliance with this important U.S. Government mandate. MACHINE READABLE PASSPORTS Effective June 26, 2005, travelers from the 27 countries participating in the United States' Visa Waiver Program (VWP) must have a machine-readable passport to enter the United States.
If you are in possession of a passport issued by any of the 27 countries listed below, please contact the passport issuing authority to ensure that you are in possession of a machine-readable passport. Please note that boarding will be denied to travelers from VWP countries that do not have machine-readable passports.
The 27 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program include: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Additional information regarding the Visa Waiver Program is available on-line at www.dhs.gov.
SHOULD I TAKE AN AIR/SEA PACKAGE? Please read the following information about air/sea packages carefully! The air/sea package is the most foolproof and least expensive way to purchase your cruise. The air/sea package works very well for thousands of passengers every week. The choice of airline, routing and flight times are at the discretion of the cruise line. No changes or deviations are permitted once the tickets have been issued. If your cruise departs from Miami or Fort Lauderdale, the cruise line reserves the right to fly you into either city and bus you to the port. If you purchase the air/sea package, the cruise line is kept informed of your whereabouts and may choose to hold the ship if they know several people are arriving late. With an air/sea package, you also receive ground transfers to and from the ship. A representative from the cruise line will be available as you leave the plane or at the baggage claim area to provide direction to the motor coaches. They generally carry a sign with the name of your cruise line so they are easy for you to spot. If for some reason you do not wish to use the transportation provided, there are taxicabs right outside the airport terminal for a nominal fee. Air schedules may not available from the cruise line until 30 days or less prior to sailing. Cruise lines may use chartered flights on regular scheduled airlines.
If for any reason you are not willing to accept these conditions, you must contact your cruise consultant as soon as possible before making the final payment. Remember, once the tickets are issued, nothing can be done to change them. The following alternate air arrangements are available to you Some cruise lines offer special air deviation programs which allow you to request specific airlines and routing for a fee. If you are interested in this program, please contact our office. The deadline for these requests is usually 60 days prior to the sailing date or the day your cruise was made if you booked less than 60 days prior to the sailing date. If you make your own air arrangements, the cruise line assumes no responsibility if you encounter problems or miss the ship. It is your loss.
AIRLINE SEAT SELECTION - CAN I HAVE ASSIGNED SEATS? Whenever possible, our agency will make your airline seat assignments in advance. If for any reason you do not like these assignments, please call the airline directly and they may change them. If your itinerary does not show seat assignments, you can secure them at the airport.
CAN I USE MY FREQUENT FLYER MILES? If you are a frequent flyer member of the airline chosen for your cruise, mileage points may be credited to you subject to the rules and regulations of the air carrier. We are glad to make this request when you book your cruise, and we will request your frequent flyer number.
HOW DO I SCHEDULE THE RETURN FLIGHT? If you have a late return flight (i.e., 4:00 P.M.. or later), don't waste your time sitting in the airport. Check your bags and take advantage of this extra time to extend your vacation by exploring local tourist attractions. Many cruise lines offer tours of your disembarkation city, which may be purchased on-board.
WHY SHOULD TRIP I BUY INSURANCE?* (*Covers Pre-Existing Conditions)
Our agency has negotiated a very comprehensive and competitive Trip Cancellation/Interruption protection program which is available exclusively to our valued customers. A few of the unique benefits include:
Waiver of Pre-Existing Medical Conditions, if you pay for your insurance with your final payment at least 70 days prior to departure date.
Bad Weather Cancellation coverage for financial loss if your trip was canceled because of Weather.
Emergency Medical Evacuation coverage of $10,000 and medical expenses of $2,600.
These are just a few highlights of the many benefits contained in this valuable protection. (See the brochure for further details.) We must have your signature with your final payment either accepting or rejecting the insurance. If you have any questions regarding coverage call 1-800- 896-6768. For your convenience, we include the cost of the insurance on your invoice. Of course, this choice is yours. We do strongly recommend this coverage. Please understand that you could lose your entire investment (or more) if you decline the coverage. Be sure to bring your Insurance Certificate with you on your vacation.
WHAT DO I DO IF I HAVE A CLAIM AT SEA?
In the event of an incident coverable under a travel insurance policy, contact your travel insurance company immediately using the 800#.
WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR NON-U.S. CITIZENS?
After December 31st, 2006, all cruise lines will require you to have proof of U.S. Citizenship in the form of a valid passport. If you are not an American citizen, be sure that you are carrying proper documents for the countries that you will be visiting. Most cruise lines also request a photo I.D. (A passport is obviously acceptable).
WHAT CRUISE DOCUMENTS WILL I RECEIVE? When you receive your cruise tickets, be sure to read everything thoroughly and call your cruise specialist if there is anything you don't understand. In this packet there will be paper cruise line baggage tags that must be filled in and placed on your luggage, If your ticket package does not include your cabin number it will be assigned when you arrive at the pier. Ask the porter to look up your name on the ship's manifest and give you your assigned cabin number. Put the number on all your luggage tags to ensure proper delivery to your cabin.
ARE PORTERS AVAILABLE TO CARRY MY LUGGAGE? At the airport and the pier, porters are available for your convenience, however their tips are not included in the price of your cruise package. The recommended tipping is $1.00 per bag.
HOW DO I REQUEST PERSONAL CABIN SERVICES? Your cabin, at first glance, may appear small when compared to an average hotel room. However, they are designed to be "shipshape" and efficient. If you have selected an "inside" cabin, you will have no window or porthole. An "outside" cabin does. Be sure to make use of the "DO NOT DISTURB" and "MAKE UP ROOM" signs that are in your cabin to enable your cabin steward to best serve your needs, Your cabin steward can also provide you with extra towels, pillows or blankets upon request, and can convert twin beds to a marine queen size bed where applicable.
CAN I CHANGE MY DINING ASSIGNMENT? Our agency notifies the Cruise Line of your dining request and normally they are able to comply. HOWEVER, DINING WISHES ARE NOT GUARANTEED. If for any reason you are not pleased with either the time or the table assignment, please see the Maitre'D once you're on board, and request a change. He will do everything possible to accommodate your wishes. Sometimes you are required to verify these arrangements on the day you board the ship. You'll be assigned a table, which you will use for the entire cruise. If you are not happy with your tablemates, tell the Maitre'D after your first meal and he will discreetly move you to another table if possible. Many cruiselines such as NCL, Carnival, and Princes offer a large choice of alternative dining options.
IS THE COST OF MEALS INCLUDED IN MY FARE? All meals are included in the price of your cruise package. The ship will offer you several choices for breakfast: early-risers coffee and Danish, a buffet, and a full breakfast served in the dining room. In addition, you have the option of having continental breakfast served in your cabin. There are also several choices for lunch: buffet; hot dogs and hamburgers on deck; and a full luncheon selection served to you in the dining room. There is an afternoon tea with snacks available about 4:00 P.M. on most ships. Dinner is served in the dining room. And last but not least, there may be a midnight buffet. Most ships also offer a light or "Spa" menu for people desiring food prepared with fewer calories. If you have any special dietary needs, please see the Maitre'D and he will do his utmost to help you. Soda and alcoholic beverages are not included in the price of your cruise package although inexpensive ‘Soda Cards” are available, and ideal for children. If you are celebrating a special event (i.e., anniversary, birthday, etc.) please be sure to let your cruise specialist know. We will notify the cruise line and they will happily provide you with a complimentary cake. Be sure to reconfirm this request directly with the waiter. If you forgot to tell your cruise specialist, don't worry - just give the Maitre'D one day's notice to comply with your wishes.
IS ROOM SERVICE AVAILABLE? Most ships offer free room service with a limited menu 24 hours a day.
HOW DOES THE TIPPING WORK? Tipping is a personal matter. The "suggested" tipping guideline is $3.50 for your waiter, $2.00 for your busboy, and $3.50 for your cabin steward; per person, per day; to be paid to each individual on the last night of your cruise. (Approximately $63.00 per passenger, per week). The Cruise Director will explain this again to you during the disembarkation and there will be envelopes provided to you. You may wish to tip the Head Waiter or Maitre'd if they rendered you extra service.
CAN I HAVE A CHARGE ACCOUNTS ON BOARD? When boarding, each passenger is issued a plastic personal identification card. This card is all that is needed to purchase goods or services on board. It also serves as the room key and as additional ID when returning from shore excursions. On most ships, you may charge all your drinks and other services to your cabin and pay in one lump sum at the end of the cruise with cash, Traveler's Check or credit card. Most ships do not accept personal checks. Most ships have a no-cash policy during the cruise, however, you may settle your account at the end of the cruise with cash if you desire.
IS THERE A TALENT SHOW? There is often a Passenger Talent Show during the week. If you have a particular talent, this is your chance to be a star and perform for the passengers. Karaoke is extremely popular on most ships. WHAT DO I WEAR ON BOARD? During the day, dress on board is casual. There are usually two "dress-up" nights for seven-day cruises; one dress-up night for shorter cruises, and three dress-up nights for ten day cruises. Some ships offer special theme nights such as Western Night or Caribbean Night. Refer to your cruise line brochure for specifics or the Daily Information Sheet while on board.
FORMAL - on these nights you can get as dressed up as you like. For gentlemen, tuxedo or dark suit is appropriate, for ladies, a long or short cocktail dress.
INFORMAL - Gentlemen will be asked to wear a jacket and for the ladies, a dress or pants-suit is appropriate.
CASUAL - For gentlemen, an open shirt and slacks are appropriate, for the ladies, casual dresses, or pants. No shorts are allowed in the dining room for dinner.
WHAT CAN WE DO WHILE YOU ARE IN PORT? When you are in port the ship is always available for meals and limited activities. However, the casino and shops will not be open. Think of the ship as your floating hotel, perfect for a nap before dinner after shopping or surfing all day.
ARE THERE CHILDREN'S PROGRAM? Most of the "children-friendly" cruise lines offer children and teen's programs. If available, baby-sitting services may be arranged on board at the Purser's Office for a nominal fee. Some ships offer beepers for family members.
IS THERE A DAILY INFORMATION SHEET? The cruise line will provide you with a daily information sheet that will be placed in your cabin each evening. This lists all the activities that will take place the following day. It's a good idea to carry this with you so that you'll know exactly what's going on at all times.
WHAT SHOULD PACK? - Remember to bring a good pair of sunglasses, the glare of the sun on the water is tiring to your eyes
- Suntan lotion with sunscreen is a must! The sun is very hot in the Bahamas, Mexico & Caribbean, even in the winter
- There will be many activities on board that will occupy as much of your time as you like. If you'd prefer to relax, you'll want to bring along some magazines, books and/or small craft work. There will be a small library on board for your convenience.
- Bring very comfortable walking shoes to walk around the ship and ports.
- Pack a camera and extra film
- There is a small store on board with a limited amount of toiletries and personal items
The lounges tend to be a bit chilly so ladies it's a good idea to bring a shawl or a light jacket.
IS MOTION SICKNESS A PROBLEM? In most cases we believe that motion sickness IS preventable. Motion medication (which can be purchased at any pharmacy), if TAKEN DAILY starting with the morning of your cruise BEFORE you board the ship, works very well. Many passengers find sea bands to be effective. If you feel unsettled on board, we suggest you check with the doctor on board. Often he will administer a shot which should put you "in the pink" within 30 minutes. Don't risk the unpleasantness of motion sickness - an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Be sure to check with your doctor before any medication is taken.
HOW DOES SOMEONE CONTACT ME ON BOARD? You may be contacted on board the ship through the High Seas Operator on their toll free number 1-800-732-2255. The caller must know the name of the ship, the passenger's name and, if possible, the cabin and the approximate location of the ship. The High Seas Operator will call them back as soon as they connect with the ship. The cost is approximately $25 for three to five minutes. Every cruiseline has a dedicated number for contacting on-board passengers. Some ships have added cellular communications capability which allows a cellular phone to connect to land based networks regardless of the location of the ship. An additional "Roaming Charge" will be made by your local cellular phone company. It has been our experience that this charge will be around $2.50 per minute.
Virtually all modern ships have ‘internet café’ offering a full range of high-speed internet services. While some cruiselines offer this service at no charge; others charge approximately $ .50 per minute. Less with a 100 minute bulk purchase.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE IS ALLOWED?
The cruise line allows you to bring as much luggage as you like. Keep in mind it will have to be stored in your cabin during your cruise. Once you board the ship, your luggage will be brought to cabin or left just outside your cabin; this normally takes a few hours. You may want to pack a swimsuit in a carry-on bag if you wish to sit in the sun the afternoon of embarkation.
WHAT IS TENDERING? Some ships do not dock at port, rather they anchor in the harbor. Tenders are used to transfer passengers to and from the port and ship. If you have a handicap, this may be an inconvenience to you. Please keep this in mind when selecting your cruise.
HOW DO I BOOK A SHORE EXCURSION? Shore excursions are best reserved on-line, well in advance. However, once you have set sail, the Shore Excursion Office will open, enabling you to collect data on the different shore excursions that will be offered for each port. These shore excursions can cost anywhere from $15 to $100 (or more) per person. Obviously, you are not obligated to purchase any of them. Before you arrive at each of the ports, there will be a lecture describing each port and detailing the different attractions. Be sure to attend in order to decide what you would prefer to do at each port. They will be especially informative for those who do not wish to take an excursion and just want to leave the ship and wander the port city on their own.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE FOR LEAVING THE SHIP? The ships crew will require you to pack and leave your bags in the hallway outside your cabin on the last night the cruise before you retire. You will want to keep toiletries and of course, something to wear the next day, along with your valuables and medications. Pack these articles in an overnight bag that you will carry off with you.
IS BREAKFAST AVAILABLE AT THE END OF THE CRUISE? When the ship arrives back in port on the last day of your cruise, breakfast will be served earlier than normal. It normally requires one to two hours for the Customs Officials to clear the ship after it docks. Keep in mind that there are 700-3000 people (depending upon the size of your ship) leaving the ship at the same time. RELAX, DON'T RUSH, EVERYTHING WILL GO SMOOTHLY! You may be required to go through Customs prior to disembarking the ship. There will be plenty of time for you to do this, no need to disrupt your scheduled breakfast seating. Don't stand in the hallways waiting to disembark. Relax on deck or in one of the lounges. Let the majority of guests disembark first (unless, of course, you have a very early return flight).
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO SOLVE A PROBLEM ON-BOARD?! The crew and staff aboard your ship are anxious to please you A friendly word and a pleasant smile are more likely to get you better service than a demanding attitude.
SHOULD I MAKE COPIES OF IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS? Make copies of all of your important documents- Passport, visas, birth certificates, prescriptions, (don't forget eye glasses and contacts!) and credit cards, including the back where important telephone numbers are printed. Make two copies, one to keep at home with a relative or friend, one to keep with your luggage. ARE MY VALUABLES SAFE ON BOARD? Most cabins contain a safe which is locked and un-locked by entering your own personal code. Most passengers will deposit their valuables in the safe on the day of boarding. From that point forward, they only carry their 'Shipboard' card which is used to purchase goods or additional services, and as a room key.
DO I NEED TO CARRY MONEY OR ID ON SHORE EXCURSIONS Many prefer traveler's checks for most countries. Other people like the ease of ATM machines. The best route is a combination of traveler's checks, ATM card, credit card, and a small amount in cash for when other options aren't available. With traveler's checks, make sure that you keep careful records of which ones you have cashed, and which ones you still have. If lost or stolen, you will need a police report, and it is imperative that you be able to tell the company which ones are gone, and which ones have been legitimately cashed. Keep this record separate from your other traveler's checks. The most meticulous records are useless when they are in a thief's hands! During all jaunts ashore passengers must carry the on-board ID card. This will be required both to leave and to re-enter the ship. At some ports it is advisable to carry a Passport and other required identification. The on-board Cruise Director will provide guidance on this matter.
SHOULD I CONSIDER A MONEY BELT WHEN ASHORE? Wear a money belt. Many prefer the kind that goes around your waist, but the kind that goes around your neck can be effective if worn inside your shirt. A few years ago in Italy, it was not uncommon for these money holders to be cut off by older gypsy women if worn on the outside. Which ever type you have, wear it inside your clothes.
DIVIDE YOUR CASH! Divide up the loot. Give some of your travelers checks and cash to your traveling companion, and be responsible for some of theirs. Traveling alone? Put some in your luggage, some hidden in your clothes, and most of it in your money belt.
KEEP SOME CASH! Always keep at least $100 in US dollars CASH in your luggage or hidden in your room. In the unlikely event that everything- passport, credit card, money is stolen, you won't be able to cash traveler's checks. You may need to travel to get to the embassy, which you will have to pay for.
KEEP READY CASH WHERE YOU CAN GET TO IT WHEN ASHORE ! Have some money accessible. You don't want to be fishing around in your money belt every time you want to make a casual purchase. Carry enough money for the day in a fanny pack or day pack. Only put what you can afford to lose in this. We usually carry $30-$50 in it, depending on the country. While some have had attempts to steal the money out of a fanny pack, (both unsuccessful!) and have had their day packs stolen, money belts are almost totally secure. Use your money-belt for your passport, credit card, and travelers checks.
BE CONSERVATIVE! Don't speak loudly as this marks you as an American. And a traveling American is considered a good target. Don't show your money. Access your money belt in respectable establishments only, such as a bank, restaurant, or nice store. If not, find a bathroom.
Don't treat the locals as foreigners. You are the guest in their country. An attitude of quiet respect can do wonders for you. People will come out of the woodwork to help you find your way or suggest a good restaurant. As a precautionary measure, practicing phrases before you go such as, "I am going to call the police," and "Can you assist me?" and "Leave me alone," in the local language are always helpful.
TAKE A PRACTICE RUN! Make a trial run. Traveling is a totally different rhythm than being at home. Our normal patterns are interrupted by unfamiliarity. If you are concerned about what to bring with you when you are touring, try taking a day trip before you head on your big trip. Pack the things you will have when you are on your trip and away from the hotel or ship during the day, camera, film, sunglasses, guidebook, map, money belt, etc. Then, take a trial run of your own town. Take only with you what you think you will need on your trip. Also, bring a small pad of paper and pen to write down things that you wished that you had brought with you.
HAVE A GREAT TRIP! Have a great trip. If you have followed the advice here, you should be able to relax on your vacation. Things happen, and even the most experienced traveler can be caught unprepared. But don't let the off chance of something happening affect your enjoyment. You have done your best, and the reward for that is a restful and fun trip. The vast majority of people have trouble free vacations. Use a little precaution and enjoy! Let us know how your trip went!
 For Best Prices and Service
Contact Me At: 800-896-6768
or e-mail
Groupcruises@moderncruising.com
Kristina
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ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT CRUISING
