Travel FAQ

Just do the math. Compare a one-week cruise against a week at a non-all-inclusive resort. On a cruise vacation, your meals, accommodations, entertainment, and most activities are included in the fare — so it's easy to stick to your budget. Plus, on a cruise you get to visit many different ports of call. Unpack once and settle in for a journey that takes you anywhere you want to go. At the end of the day, you retreat to a floating resort to enjoy fabulous cuisine, world-class entertainment, then get lulled to sleep at sea.

Today's cruise ships are built to minimize the rolling feeling that passengers may experience due to waves or wind. Despite how large and steady they are, there are many ways to further prevent seasickness: ginger (natural anti-nausea), peppermint tea, a scopolamine seasickness patch (by prescription), over-the-counter Gravol or Dramamine (look for non-drowsy), acupressure wrist bands, and choosing a stateroom towards the center of the ship where movement is less pronounced. A balcony stateroom also gives you access to fresh air when needed.

Only if you want to be. How would you like to go ice skating, rock climbing, practice your golf swing, shoot a few hoops, go to the casino, see a Broadway-style show, do some shopping, work out at the gym, relax at the spa, take a dip in the pool, or log onto the Internet? You can do it all without ever leaving the ship! Every ship has a Cruise Director whose job is to make sure each guest makes the most of their vacation. In fact, there are so many things to do while cruising that you will probably book a longer cruise next time.

Most people are so busy exploring the ship and different ports of call, they spend very little time in their stateroom. If you need more room, choose a cabin with a balcony or upgrade to a mini-suite or suite. You may also want to cruise on one of the larger ships. You might want to consider a shorter cruise for your first time, such as a three or four-day Caribbean cruise. Another option is an itinerary with many ports of call — this lets you discover new places and get off the ship for the day.

Every guest can enjoy the use of any of the ship's facilities. The price and the category of staterooms are based primarily on size and location. Whatever category you book, you'll enjoy the same courteous service, exquisite dining, variety of activities, and world-class entertainment as everyone else.

So much, you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your own or take a guided tour. Search ancient ruins or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, bicycle down the side of a 10,000-foot volcano, or ride a horse across miles of beaches. Climb a waterfall or a pyramid. See the birthplace of civilization or listen to steel drum bands. Play golf, basketball, or tennis. Discover local and exotic cuisine or learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim on some of the world's best beaches. Sail, snorkel, or go scuba diving. In short, a cruise is the easiest way to see new places and do all of the things you dream about — and you only have to unpack once, and the destinations come to you!

Travel insurance can give you and your loved ones peace of mind that in the case of an emergency you'll be protected. Whether you're looking for medical coverage in a foreign country or want to protect your belongings, there is an insurance policy that is right for you. If you currently have travel insurance, be sure to understand what is covered and what limitations or exclusions may be listed. Unfortunately, there are a myriad of unforeseeable circumstances that could occur when traveling to a new place, and travel insurance can protect your vacation investment.

Most cruise lines have adopted the policy of designated smoking areas, with the rest of the ship being a no-smoking zone. In general, smoking is usually prohibited in exterior public spaces as well as indoors, including staterooms and on balconies. You can check with your Cruise Consultant for the specific policy of the cruise line you are considering, as rules vary by line and ship.

Policies vary by cruise line. Most lines allow each guest to bring a limited quantity of wine or Champagne onboard (often two bottles per stateroom), subject to a corkage fee if consumed in public areas. Beer and spirits are generally not permitted to be brought onboard. Some lines prohibit all alcohol. Your Cruise Consultant can confirm the exact policy for your chosen cruise line before you sail.

Absolutely! Most cruise lines love having families onboard and offer dedicated kids' and teens' programs with trained youth counselors, age-appropriate activities, and supervised spaces. Many ships feature water parks, mini-golf, rock climbing walls, and family entertainment. Some lines even offer programs for infants and toddlers. A cruise is one of the best vacations for multi-generational families because there's something for every age.

When the sun goes down, the ship comes alive. Enjoy Broadway-style production shows, comedians, live music, themed parties, karaoke, dance clubs, and glittering casinos. Many ships also offer outdoor movie nights under the stars, late-night buffets, and adults-only lounges. Whether you want to dance until dawn or enjoy a quiet cocktail with ocean views, there's a nightlife option for you.

No! Today's cruises are far more relaxed than in the past. Most evenings call for smart casual attire — think slacks and a collared shirt or a sundress. Some cruise lines still host optional formal nights where you can dress up if you enjoy it, but a dark suit or cocktail dress is perfectly acceptable. Many lines have moved to 'anytime' casual dining dress codes. Your Cruise Consultant can tell you the specific dress code for your chosen cruise.

Yes. Most staterooms are equipped with a hair dryer, and all have electrical outlets suitable for shavers and other small appliances. Ships sailing from North America typically feature 110V outlets (compatible with standard Canadian/US plugs), while some international ships may also have 220V outlets. It's a good idea to bring a universal adapter if your cruise departs from outside North America. Check with your Cruise Consultant for your specific ship's electrical setup.

Most cruise lines automatically add a daily gratuity to your onboard account to cover your stateroom attendant and dining team — typically around $14–$16 USD per person, per day. This can usually be pre-paid at the time of booking or adjusted at the Guest Services desk during your cruise. An 18% gratuity is typically added to bar and spa purchases automatically. Some luxury and premium cruise lines include all gratuities in their fare. Your Cruise Consultant will explain the tipping policy for your specific cruise line.