Do I pay for extras as I go along?
No. All ships operate a cashless system. When you first arrive at the ship you will be asked to open up an onboard account using a major credit car or a cash deposit. Throughout your cruise you can then sign against your cabin for all your on board expenses. On the last morning of your cruise, you can settle your account using a major credit card, cash or travellers cheques.
Where can I keep my valuables?
Ships will either have a safe in your cabin or security and/or safe deposit boxes will be available onboard at no extra charge.
Is it quiet at sea?
Usually ships sail at night and some cabins, particularly on the lower decks, may be slightly noisier than others.
Can I get a special diet on board?
Although not guaranteed, ships will try to assist with special dietary requests, including vegetarian, fat-free, sugar or salt-free if advised at the time of booking.
What activities and entertainments are available?
There’s plenty to do onboard and a full list of what’s available each day will be listed in the Daily Programme which you will receive in your cabin each day. Activities could include informal talks, port lectures, movies, aerobics classes, sports tournaments, games, quizzes, competitions as well as concerts, musical shows and cabarets. There may be an option for speciality dining, which can cost extra and needs to be booked when you arrive onboard. Many ships also include a casino.
Will I be able to attend religious services onboard?
Non-denominational services are conducted at sea
Can I smoke onboard?
For the comfort of all guests most ships have designated lifts, restaurants and certain public areas as non-smoking. There are a number of bars and public areas in which smoking is allowed. Some cruise lines allow smoking in cabins but strongly discourage the practice.
Can I get my laundry done?
Laundry and dry cleaning services are available onboard and charges are billed to your on board account. Some ships also have complimentary self-service washers, dryers and irons.
Do you have hair dryers onboard?
Hair dryers are normally available in all cabins.
Can I use my electrical appliances?
On British ships there are 220v 3-pin sockets. On ships of other nationalities, you will have 220v sockets but you will need to take an adaptor with you.
Can I keep in touch with friends and family?
Although at sea, you can still keep in touch with friends and family back home. Cabins have direct-dial telephones and most ships have an internet room where you can send and receive emails. You can also buy local stamps on board at the Reception Desk and they will be happy to post your mail for you from the next port of call.
Can I eat in my cabin?
Yes. Room service is normally available, but there may be an extra charge. You will find a room service menu in your cabin.
Will there be any shops on board?
Depending on the ship, you’ll find a selection of shops and boutiques selling a range of goods from clothes, jewellery, perfumes, gifts, ship’s souvenirs to those forgotten essential such as toothpaste and razor blades. The shops are open daily when the ship is at sea.
How can I keep fit?
Most ships are equipped with a gym with a range of fitness equipment. In addition, most ships have programmes of keep-fit classes for those who wish to stay in shape. Also, most ships offer a healthy option choice for all meals in the restaurant.
What happens if I fall ill onboard?
Most ships have a medical facility which is staffed by qualified doctors and nurses. These facilities are not intended or designed to provide ongoing treatment for pre-existing conditions. These facilities operate outside British and European health services and charges are normally levied for consultations, prescriptions, cabin visits etc. If you anticipate a need for medical services onboard ship, your special requirement must be cleared in writing by the cruise company before your booking can be finalised. Women who will be 24 weeks or more into their pregnancy at the time of the cruise may not be carried due to the increased risk at this stage of pregnancy and the limited access to shore side medical care. If you are taking medication please remember to bring adequate amounts to last for the duration of your cruise.
What happens to my luggage at the end of the cruise?
The night before disembarkation, you will be asked to leave your cases outside your cabin. On the morning of disembarkation, after your have come through customs, your luggage will be waiting for you in the cruise terminal for you to identify and reclaim.
Can I enjoy the company of a Gentleman or Lady host, as a single passenger, if I'm travelling in a group?
Yes - many cruise lines, such as Cunard employ crew who are onboard purely as a dancing partner or dinner host. You can utilise these even if you are travelling as part of a group.