Frequently Asked Questions

A cruise itinerary is the planned route your ship will follow. It includes the departure port, arrival port, all ports of call in between, and the number of days at sea. Itineraries also highlight key experiences, such as scenic cruising, overnight stays, or special themed voyages.

Start with your priorities: destination, budget, ship size, and onboard atmosphere. Some cruise lines focus on family‑friendly fun, others on a more premium or adult‑oriented experience. It can help to compare itineraries, ship features, and what is included in the fare before you decide.

The Caribbean is a year‑round destination. The most popular months are December to April, when the weather is typically drier and less humid. The official hurricane season runs from June to November, when prices can be lower but weather can be less predictable.

Most cruise fares include your accommodation, main dining room and buffet meals, entertainment, and many onboard activities. Extras often include specialty restaurants, alcoholic beverages, some soft drinks, shore excursions, spa treatments, Wi‑Fi, and gratuities, depending on the cruise line and fare type.

A valid passport is strongly recommended for all cruises, even if your voyage begins and ends in the same country. Some “closed‑loop” cruises may allow alternative documentation, but passport rules vary by nationality and itinerary. Always check official government guidance and your cruise line’s documentation requirements before you travel.

Deposit amounts and final payment dates vary by cruise line, cabin type, and promotion. Typically, a deposit is due at the time of booking, with final payment required several weeks or months before departure. Your booking confirmation will show the exact payment schedule and cancellation terms.

Yes. Many cruise lines offer dedicated kids’ clubs, teen lounges, family cabins, and activities for all ages. Some ships feature water parks, sports areas, and family‑friendly entertainment. If you are travelling with children, check age policies, kids’ club opening times, and any babysitting options in advance.

Shore excursions are organised activities in port, such as sightseeing tours, beach days, cultural experiences, or adventure trips. You can usually book excursions directly with the cruise line or with independent operators. Always pay close attention to timings so you return to the ship before departure.

Most modern cruise ships offer Wi‑Fi, often through different internet packages. Speeds and coverage can vary depending on the ship and region, and streaming may be limited on some plans. Check your cruise line’s internet options and pricing before you sail if staying connected is important to you.

Most ships offer a main dining room, buffet, and a selection of casual venues. Many also feature specialty restaurants such as steakhouses, Italian, or sushi, which may carry an extra charge. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs can usually be accommodated if requested in advance or discussed with the dining team.

Beverage packages can be good value if you plan to enjoy multiple drinks each day, such as speciality coffees, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages. If you drink very little, paying per drink may be more economical. Compare the daily package price with your typical consumption to decide.

Daytime dress is generally casual and comfortable. Evenings may range from smart‑casual to formal, depending on the cruise line and any special “elegant” nights. Swimwear is for pool areas only, and most main dining rooms require closed shoes and cover‑ups or smart attire at dinner.

Cruise ships operate under strict international safety regulations. All guests must attend a safety drill at the start of the cruise, and ships are equipped with trained crew, lifeboats, and emergency procedures. There is also an onboard medical centre for urgent health issues, though services may incur additional charges.

If you are prone to motion sickness, consider booking a mid‑ship, lower‑deck cabin where movement is usually reduced. Over‑the‑counter remedies, motion sickness bands, and staying hydrated can help. If you feel unwell onboard, you can visit the medical centre for advice and treatment.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all cruises. A suitable policy can help cover medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, lost luggage, and other unexpected events. Check that your policy specifically covers cruises and all countries you will visit.

On the final morning, guests usually leave luggage outside their cabin the night before and disembark in groups according to assigned times. You will pass through immigration and customs where required, then collect your luggage in the terminal. Detailed instructions are provided onboard before the end of the cruise.

Most cruise lines invite guests to complete a post‑cruise survey and offer contact details for customer service. If you have questions about charges, onboard experiences, or future bookings, you can usually contact the cruise line directly via their website, phone, or your travel agent.

Most cruise fares include accommodation, meals in main dining venues, entertainment, onboard activities, and access to pools and fitness facilities. Extras like drinks, Wi‑Fi, spa treatments, and specialty dining may cost more.

A cruise itinerary is the schedule of ports your ship will visit, including sea days, arrival times, and departure times.

A sea day is a full day spent sailing between destinations. Guests enjoy onboard activities, entertainment, dining, and relaxation.

A muster drill is a mandatory safety briefing held before departure. Guests learn where to go and what to do in an emergency.

A stateroom is your cabin onboard. Options include inside, oceanview, balcony, and suites.

A shore excursion is an organised activity or tour offered at each port, such as sightseeing, beach trips, or adventure experiences.

It’s a schedule of activities, entertainment, dining times, and events delivered to your cabin or available in the app.

No, but many guests enjoy watching the ship depart from the top deck with music and entertainment.

Some cruise lines include gratuities; others add them daily to your onboard account. You can usually prepay them.

Gratuities typically range from £10–£16 per person, per day, depending on the cruise line.

Yes. Most ships offer Wi‑Fi packages for browsing, messaging, or streaming. Prices vary by cruise line.

Water, tea, coffee, and some juices are usually included. Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks often require a drinks package.

These are premium dining venues offering upgraded menus for an additional fee.

Spa treatments such as massages, facials, and thermal suites are usually extra.

Most activities are included, but some — like escape rooms, go‑karts, or fitness classes — may have a fee.

Some cruise lines require reservations for shows, especially on larger ships.

Most cruise lines do not enforce strict limits, but recommend no more than two suitcases per guest.

Cruise lines rarely impose weight limits, but airlines do — so pack accordingly.

Most ships use a mix of US (110V) and European (220V) outlets. Some newer ships include USB ports.

Most cruise lines prohibit extension leads with surge protectors. USB hubs are usually allowed.

Irons, kettles, candles, and anything with an open flame or heating element are typically banned.

Pre‑packaged snacks are usually allowed. Fresh fruit, meat, and homemade food are often restricted.

Yes. Cruise lines provide luggage tags that help staff deliver your bags to your cabin.

Usually within a few hours after boarding.

Medications, travel documents, valuables, swimwear, and anything you need before your luggage arrives.

Most cruises require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date.

Some destinations require visas. Cruise lines usually provide guidance, but it’s your responsibility to check requirements.

Most cruise lines operate in USD or EUR, regardless of the itinerary.

Ships are cashless. Purchases are charged to your onboard account.

You link a credit/debit card to your onboard account during check‑in.

Some ships offer limited currency exchange at Guest Services.

Yes — many cruise lines require proof of insurance for certain destinations.

Passport, cruise ticket, health forms, and any required visas.

No. Cruise lines will deny boarding.

Most modern ships offer accessible cabins, ramps, lifts, and priority boarding.

Yes — but these cabins are limited, so book early.

Yes. Scooters must meet size and battery requirements.

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free, halal, kosher, and allergy‑friendly meals are available with advance notice.

All ships have a medical centre staffed by doctors and nurses.

Yes — but notify the cruise line in advance.

Most cruise lines allow trained service dogs.

Some cruise lines provide interpreters on request for specific sailings.