Frequently Asked Questions (page 3 of 3)

You Haven't Lived Until You've Cruised!

What if I don't like my tablemates?
Rarely is this a problem. However, if you wish to move to another table, speak with the maitre d'. He'll make every effort to seat you with more compatible dining companions ... discretely and politely.

Are there non-smoking areas?
Today, virtually all ships have smoking and nonsmoking table and/or sections in the dining rooms and lounges. In fact, many cruise ship dining rooms are now totally smoke-free, reflecting passenger requests. If you want your dining table in a nonsmoking area, just tell your cruise specialist. Onboard, in "open-seating situations," you can advise your waiter or the maitre d'.

Can we celebrate a "special" day?
Absolutely! Most cruise lines will even treat you to a complimentary cake and a chorus of Happy Whatever to honor the occasion. Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers, canapés, wine or cheese. You can even arrange for a special private party. All you have to do is advise your CLIA-affiliated travel agent in advance.

Is cruising right for honeymooners?
Without a doubt. Cruising offers an atmosphere that's just right for romance ... cozy dinners for two, strolling on deck at sunset, dancing the night away (even under the stars) and so much more to remember forever.
Most lines provide special services from Sunday or Monday departures to welcome champagne and breakfast in bed. (And, speaking of beds, most ships have them in double, queen, or king sizes!) Also, some ships offer special programs for performing a marriage ceremony or renewing your marriage vows in port.
Can we stay in touch with the outside?

Quite easily. Most ships have a daily newsletter with news, headlines, selected stock quotes and sports scores. Staterooms on many ships are even equipped with televisions. While most ships now have telephones in passenger cabins, you can also call someone on shore through the ship's radio operator while at sea. And, you can make phone calls from most ports. In addition, many ships have fax capabilities.

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What about tipping?
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about $2.50 to $3.00 per person per day for your room steward and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. (A few cruise lines include tipping in the price and will so inform you.) Other ship board personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion.

Are there medical services onboard?
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency.

Are there laundry services aboard?
Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and a great many provide dry-cleaning services. There is, however, an additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services. Most ships also have self-service launderettes.

Do cruise lines accept group bookings?
Most lines will work with groups-often at reduced rates-depending on how many people are involved. Policies vary from company to company and sometimes during certain times of the year. Your cruise specialists have extensive experience in working with cruise groups, so call for additional information. 

Are there meeting rooms onboard?
Just about every full size ship has public rooms to offer as meeting space for groups. If you'd like to make such arrangements, ask your cruise specialist to contact the cruise line's group sales department to coordinate schedules and arrange for any catering needs. Your ship may also be able to offer audio-visual equipment.

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Can I extend my cruise vacation?
Your cruise specialist can arrange pre- or post-cruise land packages at the same time you book you cruise. And, in many cases, your airline ticket will include helpful options, such as free stopovers, that enable you to make your own special arrangements.
 
Is motion-discomfort a problem?
Not really. The most popular cruise areas boast some of the calmest waters in the world. In addition, stabilizers on modern ships, advanced availability of accurate weather information, and development of effective preventative medications have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort.

It sounds too good to be true! Is it?
The one major complaint we hear over and over again is that cruises end far too soon! Beyond that, it's hard to find any negatives. After all, you don't have to run to make plane connections to get from one port to the next. You don't have the hassles of making dinner or nightclub reservations. You don't have the bother of packing and unpacking as you move from place to place. You don't get unexpected, expensive surprises at restaurants or nightclubs. You have a wealth of options for shopping, adventure, sightseeing, exploring, entertaining and sports activities. All you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying your vacation. Most importantly, every crew and staff member onboard is dedicated to making your cruise vacation the best vacation of your life (until you top it next year with your next cruise!)

Who should I see if I have questions that haven't been answered?
Just call your professional cruise specialist. They will get answers to all your cruise questions.

Cruising FAQs Page:  1  2  3

Source: Cruise Lines International's
 "You Haven't Lived Until You've Cruised" brochure.