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Is
cruising affordable and a good vacation value?
Yes!
Cruising is the best vacation value! There are cruise vacations to suit
every budget. Your cruise fare includes all meals, your stateroom,
on-board activities and entertainment, plus transportation from port to
port. You'll know what your vacation will end up costing you before you
go. Typically, your only extra expenses will be drinks, optional shore
excursions, and personal services such as massage or hairstyling.
When you compare the value of a cruise to the total cost of other
vacations. You'll be amazed!
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How
long are cruises?
As long or short as you want. Cruise
lines offer itineraries from three days to three months.
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Where
can I go?
You can go wherever you want. Cruises
visit over 1,800 ports worldwide and practically every destination
accessible by water.
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How
do I book a cruise?
Call
us at 1-888-655-6141 and talk with
one of our professional Cruise Consultants to help you pick the cruise
that fits your vacation schedule, tastes and budget. We can make all the
arrangements to get you from your doorstep to your ship and back.
Our cruise specialists have been helping many other clients just like
you to find the "perfect" cruise.
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Are
all ships fairly similar?
Far from it. Cruise lines' ships range
from under 200 feet to over 1,000 feet long. You can sail with fewer
than 100 fellow guests or over 2,600. Enjoy atmospheres ranging from
casual to formal, contemporary to classic, old world luxury. You can
even choose between traditional propeller-driven vessels or
sail-assisted ships. Enjoy the endless activities offered on a
contemporary resort-style cruise, or immerse yourself in the culture of
a destination via a niche or special interest cruise.
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Are
there different types of cruises?
There is an incredible diversity of
cruise vacations available -- all custom designed to suit different
interests and personal preferences.
The variety of styles ranges from boutique, luxury cruises with
globetrotting itineraries to large, contemporary ships with a fantastic
array of recreational facilities; from classic vessels evoking the
time-honored traditions of cruising to special-interest, niche lines
specializing in unique destinations with an accent on cultural
enrichment.
For the explorer, there are cruise lines which feature soft adventure
expeditions to such unusual and rustic frontiers as Antarctica, the
Amazon rain forest or African Serengeti. Or discover historical legacies
closer to home with enlightening itineraries to New England, French
Canada and the Colonial America coast.
For experienced travelers, destination-focused cruises specialize in
premium, culturally-rich ports of call with itineraries dedicated to
illuminating such historic, world-class treasures as the antiquities of
classical Greece, the Polynesian paradise of Hawaii or the fabled
splendor of Norwegian fjords.
For many, the perfect vacation includes the non-stop fun and sun of a
tropical resort-style cruise to the Caribbean, where you can sample a
variety of island cultures and cuisines while working on a terrific sun
tan.
Plus, many cruise lines feature special-interest themes on-board, with
entertainment ranging from jazz festivals and classical music concerts
to golf clinics and murder mysteries at sea!
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Are
there any special educational programs on-board?
To complement the spirit of discovery
that travel evokes, many cruise lines feature an extensive program of
on-board enrichment seminars hosted by distinguished guests experts. In
addition to lectures highlighting the history and sights of ports you
will be visiting, there may also be special in-depth presentations
ranging from Renaissance works of art and strategic financial planning
to epicurean secrets of classic French cuisine.
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What's
an air/sea cruise?
A fly/cruise or an air/sea cruise
vacation package includes either free or specially-reduced airfare along
with your cruise ticket. These convenient money-saving options are
available from most major North American cities and include ground
transfers between the airport and ship as well as baggage handling.
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Do
I need a passport?
This depends on the type of cruise and
your destination. You will need some proof of citizenship and
identification. You'll receive complete information on required
documents well in advance of your departure. However, a passport
is the best travel identification to have on your trip.
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Are
there different classes of service?
Today's cruise ships are
"one-class". Everyone onboard can use all of the ship's
facilities. The price of a cabin is based primarily on its size and
location. Regardless of the category you book, you'll enjoy the same
courteous service, menus, activities, and entertainment as everyone else
onboard.
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Will
I get bored? Feel confined?
Hardly! Being at sea gives you a feeling
of total freedom that no land-based resort can offer. There's plenty of
room. And it will probably take you two or three days just to discover
everything that's on board. Plus, you get the added adventure of
exploring many exciting ports of call.
Cruise ships are like floating resorts
with all the choices fine resorts have to offer. You can lie back in a
lounge chair, breathe in the sea air, soak up the sun, read good books,
or watch the ever-changing seascape.
If you're more active, join in exercise or dance classes, and sports
contests. Practice your tennis stroke or golf swing, or take some fresh
air on the jogging deck. Swim, stretch out in the sauna or work out in
the gym.
You can also see a feature film, attend an enrichment lecture by
renowned experts, play backgammon or bridge. And that's just when you're
on board!
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What
can I do in port?
So much you'll have a hard time choosing!
You can explore on your own or take a guided tour (often referred to as
shore excursions). Search ancient ruins or hunt for shopping bargains.
Ride a raft over river rapids, a bicycle down the side of a 10,000 foot
volcano, or a horse across miles of hills and beaches. Climb a waterfall
or pyramid. Follow the footsteps of history or the wake of a water-skiing
boat. If there's still time, play golf or tennis. Learn how to windsurf.
Sun and swim at some of the world's best beaches. Catch a record marlin.
Sail, snorkel, or scuba dive. Take a cable car to the top of a mountain.
Explore dark catacombs.
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Do
I have to participate in the activities?
On a cruise, you do what you want, when
you want. You can do everything or do absolutely nothing. It's your
vacation!
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Do
cruise lines welcome families with kids?
More and more cruise vacations are booked
by families with children. Most cruise lines provide plenty of
supervised activities for youngsters, especially during school holidays.
If your children enjoy swimming, sports, games, movies, and the
adventure of new places, they'll love a family cruise. You'll find that
children adapt to shipboard life with ease, and you won't have to wonder
what they're up to every minute. The youth counselors will help keep
them busy and entertained. Ships even offer youth camps that cater to
all ages, from toddlers to teens. Best of all, children generally travel
at a substantially reduced rate.
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What's
there to do at night?
At night, life aboard a cruise ship
really turns on. There's dancing, live entertainment, nightclubs and
lounges, feature films, and parties with all your new friends. Most
ships also have casinos. What's more, there are many special events like
the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night, and the Masquerade
Parade.
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Is
there a charge for entertainment?
Never. On a cruise vacation, the
entertainment is on the house. There's no cover, minimum, or charge for
an admission ticket. The shows are live, films first-rate and all
included in your cruise fare.
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Will
there be people like me?
No matter what you've heard to the
contrary, there's no such thing as a typical cruise passenger! All
kinds of people take cruises now... all ages... from all walks of
life... singles, couples and families. Just ask one of our Cruise Consultants
for advice on the best ship for you, based on your tastes and lifestyle.
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What
should I pack?
Pack like you would for any resort.
Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or
ashore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. As on shore, attire is
dictated by occasion. At the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll
probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, or
cocktail dress; perhaps even a dinner jacket or gown.
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Will
I need a tuxedo?
Many cruise lines now feature a more
relaxed and casual approach to dress throughout the cruise - while on
others, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun. But don't buy a
tuxedo just for the trip. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit
and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions. If you do want to dress to
the nines, many ships offer tuxedo rental services.
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Can
singles have fun on a cruise?
Cruising is ideal for people traveling
alone, because it's so easy to meet other people. In fact, most ships
have parties just for singles–early on, so you can get to know people
right away. Many ships even offer gentlemen hosts who can be dance
partners, dinner companions or a fourth at cards.
Most ships also have single cabins as well as single rates for double
staterooms. If you ask them, many cruise lines will even find you a
roommate to share a cabin so you can obtain the per person/double
occupancy rate, saving you even more on a great vacation.
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Can
I use my hair dryer or shaver?
Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the
staterooms. But do check with one of our Cruise Consultants to be sure.
Most ships even feature hair-dryers in your cabin.
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What
are different meal seatings?
Some ships' dining rooms can accommodate
all passengers in one "seating." But most ships have two
seatings, which differ only by time. Typically 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine early or late–then
have one of our Cruise Consultants request your preference when you book
your cruise. Whichever seating you choose, remember that one of the best
ways to make new friends is to ask for a large table. In addition, some
ships offer alternative dining rooms, such as Italian, Chinese, Japanese
or Southwestern themed restaurants, separate from the main dining room.
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Is
cruise ship dining as good as I've been told?
Everything you've heard about cruise ship
dining is true. You'll find a varied selection of entrees (appetizers,
salads, soups, vegetables, and desserts, too) every time you sit down.
And there's virtually no limit on what or how much you can order. But,
just because your cruise ship offers plenty of delicious food, doesn't
mean you'll come home out of shape. You can choose low-cal, spa,
vegetarian or fitness menu selections that are just as tempting as the
regular menu. Best of all, the one thing you'll never see on a cruise
ship menu is a price. Because all your meals are included!
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Can
I get a special diet?
Most ships can accommodate salt-free,
low-carbohydrate, Kosher, or other diet preferences. However, this
request must be made in advance, so be sure to advise one of our Cruise Consultants
when you book your cruise.
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What
if I don't like my tablemates?
Rarely is this a problem. However, if you
wish to change tables, speak with the maitre d'. He'll make every effort
to seat you with more compatible dining companions... discretely and
politely.
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Are
there non-smoking areas?
Virtually all ships have smoking and
non-smoking sections in the public rooms. In fact, many dining rooms,
and even some entire ships, are now totally smoke-free, reflecting
passenger requests. If you want your dining table in a non-smoking area,
just tell one of our Cruise Consultants. On board, in "open-seating
situations," you can advise your waiter or the maitre d'.
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Can
we celebrate a special occasion?
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, or canapés. You can even
arrange for a special private party. All you have to do is advise one of
our Cruise Consultants in advance.
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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). Most lines provide special services–from Sunday or Monday
departures to champagne and breakfast in bed. Also, some ships
offer special programs for performing a marriage ceremony or renewing
your marriage vows.
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Can
we stay in touch with the outside world?
Quite easily. Most ships have a daily
newsletter with news, headlines, selected stock quotes and sports
scores. Many staterooms are equipped with televisions and have satellite
telephones. You can also call someone on shore through the ship's radio
officer while at sea. And, you can make phone calls from most ports. In
addition, most ships have fax capabilities and many are adding computer
cafes with Internet access for e-mail communication.
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What
about tipping?
Tipping is a matter of individual
preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about $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 shipboard personnel can be
tipped for special services at your discretion.
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Are
there medical services onboard?
Virtually every cruise ship (except for
some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a medical facility
and health care professional on staff to handle almost any emergency.
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Are
there laundry services aboard ship?
Almost all cruise ships have laundry
facilities and many provide dry-cleaning services. There is, however, an
additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services.
Many ships also have self-service launderettes.
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Do
cruise lines accept group bookings?
Most lines welcome groups–often at
special rates, depending on how many people are involved. Policies vary
from company to company and sometimes during certain times of the year.
Just consult one of our Cruise Consultants for details.
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Are
there meeting rooms onboard?
Just about every full-size ship has
public rooms or a conference center to offer as meeting space for
private or corporate groups. If you'd like to make meeting or incentive
travel arrangements, ask one of our Cruise Consultants to contact the
cruise line's group sales department to coordinate schedules and arrange
for any special needs. Your ship may also be able to offer audio-visual
equipment, communications, meeting coordinators, secretarial and
printing services, and more.
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Can
I extend my cruise vacation?
Cruise lines feature special pre- or
post-cruise hotel packages that allow you to extend your vacation in
either your port of embarkation or debarkation.
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Is
motion discomfort a problem?
Rarely. Popular cruise itineraries 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.
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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. All you have to worry about is relaxing and enjoying
your vacation. Most importantly, every crew and staff member on board is
dedicated to making your cruise the best vacation of your life (until
you top it with your next cruise!)
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