Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Retired Military Cruise Clients
What is the difference between an outside and an inside stateroom?
Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
Are there different classes of service?
Will I get bored or feel confined?
When can I board the ship?
What about my medication?
Can I bring a hairdryer or other electrical appliances with me?
Can I park at the pier?
How do I get to the ship?
Can I bring visitors on the ship?
What if I'm prone to seasickness?
How do I pay for onboard purchases?
What are the tipping guidelines?
What are my dining options?
What if I have special dietary needs?
What if I am celebrating my birthday/anniversary?
What is an assembly drill, and do I have to go?
Do I have to participate in the cruise line's organized activities?
Do cruise lines have activities for kids?
What activities are available during the evenings?
Can we stay in touch with the outside?
Are the casinos and shops open all day?
How will I know what activities are happening aboard the ship?
How do I pay for purchases in port?
What can I do in port?
Do I have to get off of the ship at each port of call?
Should I consider purchasing travel insurance?
What's the best time to take a cruise?
When is Hurricane Season?
When is the most affordable time to take a cruise?
What Proof of Citizenship do I need for my vacation? Do I need a passport?
Will I need a tuxedo?
Are there medical services onboard?
Do they have babysitting on board?
What is the United States Border Security Act, and what do I need to do to prepare?
What is your Satisfaction Guarantee?
When will I receive my cruise documents?
What is an Air/Sea package?
When will I get my air schedule?
What if I have to cancel?
Why should I book with your company?
How do I get a passport?
What is a stateroom category?
Are there different classes of service?
What is an upgrade?
What is the difference between a Category Guarantee and a Run of Ship stateroom?
What is an Air Deviation, and what is the benefit of purchasing one?
If I don't purchase airfare through the cruise line, how will I get to the ship from the airport?
How do I choose my flights?
How will I know if there have been changes made to my flight itinerary?
Is it possible to travel while pregnant?
Which cruise line should I choose?
Does Spring Break impact cruises?
Can I celebrate a special occasion?
What's included in my cruise fare?
What's NOT included in my cruise fare?
Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
Why is it so expensive for one person to travel alone?
What is a shipboard credit (SBC)?
What is a cruise tour?
What is a shore excursion?
What is a port?
What is a tender?
What is Freestyle dining?
I'm already booked, is there a way I can access my reservation online?
What information do I need to provide when booking?
Will my infant be charged the full cruise fare?
Do all passengers staying in the same stateroom pay the same rate?
What forms of payment do you accept?
What is the drinking age onboard ship?
What types of beverages are included in my cruise fare?
Are there ways to save money on children's beverages?
Is there a dress code for dinner?
Will there be wheelchair accessibility?
How can I contact family/friends back home if I need to?
Will I have internet access during my cruise?
Are there non-smoking areas onboard?
What are shore excursions?
Is it better to purchase shore excursions in advance?
What if I need over-the-counter medicine?
How should I transport my personal medications?
I have special medical needs, do I need to alert the cruise line?
What is the difference between an outside and an inside stateroom?
There are a wide variety of staterooms to choose from on every ship. An outside stateroom or "Oceanview" will have a window or porthole. Some Oceanview staterooms will also have a balcony; some will have a partially or fully obstructed view. An inside or "No View" stateroom will often have artwork or draperies on the walls, in an attempt to create the suggestion of a window.
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Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
Yes, all cruise itineraries are subject to change. Guest safety is the number one priority for the cruise lines. On rare occasions, weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances require a change in itinerary. In these situations, the cruise line staff will do everything in their power to visit an alternate port of call.
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Are there different classes of service?
Today's cruise ships are "one class." Everyone on board can use all of the ship's facilities.
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Will I get bored or feel confined?
Not likely. Cruise ships are like floating resorts and offer just as many options as a fine resort. It usually takes a couple of days to fully explore all the onboard possibilities. In addition, you have the opportunity to explore new and exciting ports of call. You can take time to yourself lying poolside on a deck chair or you can join a dance class or sports activity. Later, catch a movie or play backgammon. The choices are endless.
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When can I board the ship?
This will vary from ship to ship, depending upon arrival time into the port and what time the ship is scheduled to leave from the port. Keep in mind that once the passengers from the previous cruise have disembarked, the staff must have enough time to prepare the ship for the next group of passengers, before anyone is allowed to board. Check your cruise documents for the suggested boarding time, as well as the time after which the cruise line will no longer allow passengers to board.
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What about my medication?
Please carry any medication in its original bottle. It is recommended that medication be carried in your pocket or purse so that it will be available when needed. Checked luggage may not be accessible at all times. If you're using any prescription drugs, vitamins or other medication on a regular basis, you should bring an adequate supply with you. Many types of medication may not be readily available either aboard ship or in ports of call. Commonly used medication may be purchased at the office of the ship's doctor.
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Can I bring a hairdryer or other electrical appliances with me?
Electric razors and hair dryers can be brought with you. Staterooms for most cruise lines are equipped with 110 volts AC and are capable of handling all normal appliances. Some appliances may require the use of an adapter. Keep in mind, cruise lines do not provide irons in your stateroom and they prefer that you do not bring one along, due to the fire hazard. There is often laundry service on board should you need a special outfit ironed.
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Can I park at the pier?
Yes. Most ports offer parking near the pier, for a daily fee.
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How do I get to the ship?
If you are driving to the port, there is often parking available for a daily fee, at the port. Websites for the various ports will always include driving directions and other general information about that particular port. If you are flying to the port, you can either purchase transfers from the airport to the ship, or take a cab from the airport. Most cruise lines will include transfers automatically in cases where airline arrangements are included in the cruise package, however in some cases the transfers may involve an additional fee. In cases where air is not included as part of the cruise package, transfers can be added for an additional fee.
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Can I bring visitors on the ship?
For safety and security reasons, no visitors are allowed on board.
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What if I'm prone to seasickness?
Seasickness is rare on larger cruise ships because they are equipped with stabilizers, which are designed to minimize the feeling of movement. If you should feel queasy, medicine is available from your stateroom steward or the ship's doctor. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to consult your physician prior to travel.
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How do I pay for onboard purchases?
Most cruise lines allow you to establish an onboard credit account that permits you to charge purchases to your stateroom. You will need to present a credit card, cash, or travelers checks to open this account. This can be done at the designated sign-up area onboard the ship, or during the check-in process.
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What are the tipping guidelines?
Suggested gratuities vary from cruise line to cruise line, and generally range from $7 to $15 per person, per day. Some cruise lines offer a list of suggested gratuity amounts for the various shipboard staff, and some cruise lines automatically add these gratuities to your shipboard account. With many cruise lines, you will have the option to remove the automatically added gratuities if you are dissatisfied with the level of service provided, or in the event that you wish to tip the staff personally. This is done by visiting the Purser’s desk prior to debarkation. Check with your Vacation Consultant or the cruise line for their specific gratuity policies and charges. In cases where the gratuities are not automatically added to the shipboard account, the following guidelines are generally suggested by the cruise lines: Stateroom attendant - $3.50 per person, per day; Head Waiter - $3.50 per person, per day; Assistant waiters - $1.75 per person, per day. Gratuities for the Headwaiter/Maitre D and other service personnel are at your discretion. For your convenience aboard the ship, a 15% gratuity is automatically included on all beverage tabs. In cases where the cruise line automatically adds gratuities to your onboard account, rates are generally in the range of $10.00 per adult per day, $5.00 per child (3-12 years old) and $0.00 for children under 3 years old.
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What are my dining options?
Most cruise lines offer two seatings for the main dining room: Main Seating and Late Seating. Dining preferences may be requested at the time of the booking, however no requests are guaranteed. In addition to the traditional seatings, some cruise lines now offer "freestyle" dining. This provides guests with the flexibility to dine when and with whom they wish. Your seating and table assignment will be confirmed at embarkation. Either seating will allow you to see all the shows and experience everything your cruise has to offer. For your convenience, in addition to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and midnight buffets, many ships also offer complimentary room service.
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What if I have special dietary needs?
Low-fat and vegetarian entrees are often offered at lunch and dinner. Low-sodium meals, kosher meals, and certain other diet-restricted meals can be made available. Dietary requests should be made at the time of booking to ensure that you are appropriately accommodated.
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What if I am celebrating my birthday/anniversary?
If you'd like to celebrate an anniversary or birthday on the ship, we can add that to your reservation in advance or you can let the maitre d' know. The cruise lines love to celebrate with you.
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What is an assembly drill, and do I have to go?
These are commonly referred to as lifeboat drills (or “muster”). Everyone on board the ship is required to be in attendance for a compulsory safety drill before departure, to comply with Coast Guard and international safety regulations.
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Do I have to participate in the cruise line's organized activities?
Of course not. The beauty of a cruise is that you can choose. It's a great vacation for those who want to keep busy and participate in organized activities, and it's also a great vacation for those who would rather curl up in a deck chair and lie in the sun or read a good book.
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Do cruise lines have activities for kids?
Yes. Most cruise lines offer a variety of organized activities for children, as part of the cruise package. These programs are directed and supervised by specially trained staff, and different activities are offered depending upon age group. Age requirements vary between cruise lines, but a child must be toilet trained in order to participate.
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What activities are available during the evenings?
Most cruise lines offer a variety of evening activities, from Las Vegas style shows to gambling at the casino. You can also choose to dance the night away at the disco, or spend a more quiet evening enjoying a drink and sharing the day’s experiences at one of the many lounges on board.
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Can we stay in touch with the outside?
Quite easily. Most ships have televisions in the rooms plus a daily newsletter with headlines. There are either phones in the rooms or you can have the ship's radio operator contact the mainland for you. Also many ships offer fax capabilities or internet lounges. There are charges to contact the mainland in any form. Please check with the purser to find out exact amounts. On some sailings like to Alaska it is possible that your cell phone will work during most of the cruise when it is close to land. On some ships you cell phone will actually work by going thru the ships phone system but check with the cruise ship to see what your minutes will cost you. (it is more than you think)
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Are the casinos and shops open all day?
Each cruise ship has its own guidelines regarding hours of operation of the casino and on-board shops. The basic rule of thumb is that shops and the casino are open while you are at sea, however they will be closed while the ship is in port.
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How will I know what activities are happening aboard the ship?
Cruise lines publish a daily “newsletter” that lists all of the activities being offered aboard the ship each day. In some cases your cabin steward will leave a copy in your stateroom the night before, and a copy of the bulletin is also always available at the Purser’s desk
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How do I pay for purchases in port?
In most ports, U.S. currency may be accepted or easily exchanged. It is best to bring cash in small denominations, since it is easier to get change for these bills. It is also advisable to carry a limited amount of cash, since it is irreplaceable if lost. Travelers checks and/or credit cards are also recommended. Exact conversions rates fluctuate on a daily basis and may differ, depending on whether you are converting cash with a local merchant, hotel, or bank.
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What can I do in port?
There's lots to do depending on your preference. Each port of call offers a unique experience. You can explore on your own, take the cruise line's organized shore excursions (check with the activities desk onboard or on-line before you go), browse the many shops, relax at the beach, or take in some historical sites. There is truly something for everyone. Check out our shore excursion options we offer thru a third party operator.
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Do I have to get off of the ship at each port of call?
You do not have to disembark at a Port of Call if you do not want to! Although the cruise lines will generally offer a more limited schedule of on-board activities when the ship is in port, you can relax at the pool or participate in one of the cruise line's organized activities. And, there's a good chance that spa appointments will be easier to come by on days when the ship is not at sea.
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Should I consider purchasing travel insurance?
We recommend protecting your vacation investment by purchasing travel insurance. While you may think there’s nothing that could prevent you from departing on your dream vacation, the reality is that life is simply unpredictable. Travel protection provides coverage if you have to cancel due to injury, sickness, or death to you, a traveling companion or family member. However, it does not cover unstable, pre-existing conditions. It will also cover you if you have a medical emergency during your trip, or if your baggage is lost or damaged, among other things.
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What's the best time to take a cruise?
It depends on where you'd like to go. The Caribbean is fantastic year round; however, some of the more exotic destinations are seasonal. For example, you can only cruise to Alaska between May and September, to Europe between April and November, to Bermuda between April and October, and the Panama Canal, between September and April.
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When is Hurricane Season?
The U.S. National Hurricane Service officially designates June 1 to November 30 as hurricane season, however, historically, the greatest concentration of hurricane and tropical storm activity generally tends to be between late August and mid-October.
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When is the most affordable time to take a cruise?
If you are looking for the very least expensive time to take a cruise, then consider sailing between the end of August and the sailing before Christmas, but not over Christmas or Thanksgiving. Many families have children who are back in school, and people also begin saving vacation time, and money, for the holiday season. If you're looking for a senior citizen rate, a regional promotion, a past passenger promotion, or a last minute deal, you'll likely find it during this period, rather than during the Winter, Spring, or Summer. Discounts for retired military vary by cruise line with some lines opening up sailings several months in advance, while others will only open up dates closer to the departure date.
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What Proof of Citizenship do I need for my vacation? Do I need a passport?
ALL PERSONS traveling by air outside of the United States are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. LAND AND SEA TRAVEL The following summarizes information available on the Department of Homeland Security’s website. CURRENTLY: U.S. citizens need to present either (a) a passport, passport card (available in spring 2008), or WHTI-compliant document; or (b) a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate. LATER: As early as June 1, 2009, the U.S. government will implement the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI. The proposed rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or WHTI-compliant document. Note: The passport requirement does NOT apply to U.S. citizens traveling to or returning directly from a U.S. territory. Non-U.S. citizens should contact the consulates or embassies of the countries visited regarding the proper documentation necessary for travel. We recommend all travelers confirm the entry requirements for all countries prior to departure. The following website may assist you in verifying the required documentation for travel: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1229.html. Please be advised that knowing, securing and bringing the required identification is solely the responsibility of the passengers. We are unable to provide refunds for clients who do not possess the necessary documentation.
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Will I need a tuxedo?
On most cruises, a tuxedo is not required, although gentleman should plan on bringing a dark suit in order to attend the formal night(s). If you prefer to dress to the nines, many cruise lines offer tuxedo rentals.
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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 medical emergencies.
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Do they have babysitting on board?
Most of the major cruise lines offer babysitting services, however availability can depend on the destination and time of year. Cruise lines with limited facilities for children may not provide a children's program or babysitting services, unless a certain number of children are onboard. Ask your Vacation Consultant to check with the cruise line about the policy in place for the specific cruise you are considering. Most cruise lines offer babysitting in a group setting, and some also offer private babysitting service in your stateroom. There is generally a fee for these services. Babysitting services are offered during certain evening hours when the children’s program is not in operation, but generally not on the first or the last night of the cruise. Babysitting during daytime hours is usually offered only while at sea, but a some cruise lines may have more flexible hours.
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What is the United States Border Security Act, and what do I need to do to prepare?
The United States Border Security Act is legislation, signed by President George Bush in May 2002, which requires all airlines and cruise lines to collect immigration information from each passenger prior to their cruise to or from the United States. As of March 1, 2003, all cruise lines must electronically report a manifest of all passengers on each cruise prior to their arriving at the port on embarkation day. his manifest includes personal information about each passenger including name, gender, birthday, residence, citizenship, and passport data. Any passengers who have not submitted all the required information before they get to their ship can expect very long delays at the pier. If a passenger does not supply any piece of required data, he may be denied boarding without a refund. The Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) will be standard for all airline and cruise reservations. Your cruise line will include additional information about APIS with your cruise documents, and you will be asked to send or fax this information prior to your cruise.
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What is your Satisfaction Guarantee?
After departing on your cruise, if you are not satisfied, call us immediately from the ship. If the cruise line or we are unable to resolve your concern, we will REFUND the unused portion of your cruise and the cost to fly you back to your port of origin. Guaranteed!! To qualify for a refund, you must call the satisfaction guarantee desk within 24 hours of sailing and MUST disembark the ship at the first non-U.S. port. This program is not available on all sailings.
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When will I receive my cruise documents?
In most cases, documents will be delivered within 10 days of departure date. Documents will be delivered in a variety of ways, including regular mail and email. In some cases, it may not be necessary to receive actual tickets, as e-tickets are sometimes utilized. The specifics will depend upon which tour operator or cruise line you have booked with. Once you have secured your reservation, you will receive further details as to how your documents will arrive. If you have a cruise-only reservation, it may be necessary to pick your travel documents up the day of departure at the pier. For reservations that include airfare, you can make arrangements to set up an overnight delivery. The cruise line may arrange your reservation to be e-ticketed; in this instance, an email confirmation with your itinerary will be sent to you.
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What is an Air/Sea package?
An air/sea package is when you purchase your airline arrangements through the cruise line, in conjunction with your cruise reservation. A cruise line's air/sea package works very well for most passengers. Booking airfare with your cruise package provides two important advantages: 1. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the airline is responsible for your transportation to the next port of call. 2. Your airfare cost typically includes roundtrip transfers from the airport to/from the ship (except for all Costa Cruises, Princess cruises and select Holland America cruises).
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When will I get my air schedule?
Cruise lines generally assign flights approximately 21 days prior to departure. Only then will you know your airline and flight schedule. You may request to customize your flights for an additional fee, plus any additional airfare costs. Without doing so, we are unable to guarantee seat assignments, non-stop flights, specific flight times, or a specific airline. In addition, we are unable to guarantee the same flight schedule if more than one cabin is booked and are traveling together. If these are important to you, we recommend customizing your flights. In some cases, custom flight itineraries may not be an option.
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What if I have to cancel?
Cancellation policies vary between cruise lines and tour operators, and they typically increase incrementally as the travel date approaches. During the reservation process, you will be advised of the cancellation policy applicable to your specific cruise or vacation package. It is the sole responsibility of the passenger to be familiar with the penalties assessed for cancellation. In addition to any fees assessed by the cruise line or tour operator, we will apply a $75.00 administrative fee for all cancellations. To protect yourself from penalties for canceling due to medical reasons, we encourage you to purchase a Travel Protection plan.
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Why should I book with your company?
There are a number of reasons to book with us. Among them: fast, courteous service with the best rates in the country.
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How do I get a passport?
You may apply for a passport at your local post office. Many cities also have local passport offices. For further information regarding obtaining a passport, please consult: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html. Please keep in mind that you will need to allow 6-8 weeks for your passport to be processed.
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What is a stateroom category?
A group of staterooms that are assigned the same rank because of their size, amenities, deck level, and location. Prices vary according to category.
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Are there different classes of service?
Today's cruise ships are "one class." Everyone on board can use all of the ship's facilities. The price of a stateroom 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 on board.
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What is an upgrade?
An upgrade is when you purchase a particular room category and receive a more expensive room at no additional cost to you. Upgrades may also be purchased, providing that there is availablity in your desired room category.
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What is the difference between a Category Guarantee and a Run of Ship stateroom?
Both the Category Guarantee and Run of Ship options typically provide a great value in that they are usually reduced fares with the possibility of an upgrade. Category Guarantee means you will receive at least the category that you have purchased, with the possibility of an upgrade. If you have chosen this option, you will not receive an exact stateroom number at the time of booking, as the cruise lines typically assign the stateroom closer to the departure date or even at the pier. Run of Ship means that your stateroom could be literally anywhere on the ship. This could be from the lowest deck to the highest, inside or outside staterooms, front, back, or mid-ship. As with guarantee cabins, you will generally receive your stateroom number either fairly close to departure date or even at the pier. Many passengers consistently purchase their staterooms in this manner and are satisfied with the savings and with the staterooms that they receive. However, if having a specific view, bedding configuration, or location on the ship are important to you, we recommend that you choose to purchase a cabin assignment, rather than a Cabin Guarantee or Run of Ship stateroom.
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What is an Air Deviation, and what is the benefit of purchasing one?
An Air Deviation, also referred to as customizing your flights, allows you to request specific dates, times, airlines, air cities, or nonstop flights. The cruise lines charge $35-$150 per person, plus any additional airfare costs to make this request. The benefit of an Air Deviation is that it confirms you on a preferred flight schedule. Without an air deviation, we are unable to guarantee specific flight times, schedules, or nonstop flights. In addition, if people from two or more staterooms are traveling together, we are unable to guarantee that they will all share the same flight schedule unless an Air Deviation is requested. Also, without an Air Deviation, you will not know your flight schedule until approximately 21-30 days prior to your departure.
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If I don't purchase airfare through the cruise line, how will I get to the ship from the airport?
Many cruise lines offer transportation from the airport to the pier for their guests. The cost for this service varies, and in most cases, may be paid in advance. Reservations for this service are typically accepted up until approximately 3 weeks prior to your departure, and you may often choose a one-way or round-trip service. The cruise line will need to know your flight itinerary at the time of purchase so that they may coordinate the transfer service. If purchasing the transfers in advance is not an option, you may typically purchase them at the airport on the day of the cruise's departure. To do this, proceed to the baggage claim area and see the cruise line's representative to inquire about being added to their transfer manifest. Guests who do not purchase the transfer service through the cruise line are responsible for their own transportation to and from the pier.
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How do I choose my flights?
If you have elected to purchase your flights through the cruise line, you may select specific flights by purchasing an Air Deviation. An Air Deviation, also referred to as customizing your flights, allows you to request specific dates, times, airlines, air cities, or nonstop flights. The cruise lines charge $35-$150 per person, plus any additional airfare costs to make this request. The benefit of an Air Deviation is that it confirms you on a preferred flight schedule. Without an air deviation, we are unable to guarantee specific flight times, schedules, or nonstop flights. In addition, if people from two or more staterooms are traveling together, we are unable to guarantee that they will all share the same flight schedule unless an Air Deviation is requested. Also, without an Air Deviation, you will not know your flight schedule until approximately 21-30 days prior to your departure. If you are purchasing your flights independently of the cruise line, you will want to inquire about the appropriate flight schedules when you purchase your cruise. Keep in mind, you will want to allow ample time to arrive to the pier on the day of the cruise's departure in case there are airline delays. Additionally, due to the disembarkation process, you will require several hours between when the cruise ship returns to port and when you must be at the airport for your return flight. We strongly encourage you to speak with our Customer Service representatives or you Vacation Consultant to obtain specific guidelines for your particular cruise.
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How will I know if there have been changes made to my flight itinerary?
If we have received notification of the schedule change, we will make every effort to contact you with that information. However, there are many instances in which we are not apprised of changes in flight schedules. As a result, we highly recommend that you contact the airline prior to departure to reconfirm your flights.
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Is it possible to travel while pregnant?
Most cruise lines will allow travel up to 24 weeks of pregnancy; however, each cruise line does set its own policy and they do reserve the right to deny boarding to any passenger who is further along than their policy stipulates. In some instances, a cruise line my require medical documentation indicating fitness to travel. Please contact your Vacation Consultant or our Customer Service department for specifics on terms and conditions.
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Which cruise line should I choose?
There are over 40 different cruise lines to choose from and many offer a retired military discount. Depending on your preferences, you can select a ship that accommodates anywhere from 100 to more than 2,000 passengers. There are cruises that are geared towards adventure, history, culture or just plain relaxation and fun! We recommend searching our website to discover what type of cruising experience most appeals to you. If you’re still unsure, one of our expert Vacation Consultants would be happy to narrow down the options for you!
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Does Spring Break impact cruises?
More and more cruise lines are tailoring cruises for the Spring Break crowd. For those travelers who would prefer not to be among the young revelers, but who do want to cruise during the Spring Break time period (usually late winter through mid-spring) we suggest discussing this at length with your Vacation Consultant or one of our Customer Service representatives.
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Can I celebrate a special occasion?
If you'd like to celebrate an anniversary, honeymoon or birthday on the ship, we can have your reservation noted in advance or you can let the maitre d' know once you are on board. Many cruise lines no longer observe these occasions free of charge, so it is best to inquire at the time you finalize your reservation. Most cruise lines also offer honeymoon and anniversary packages at an additional cost.
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What's included in my cruise fare?
In most cases, your cruise will include your stateroom, meals in the buffet restaurants and main dining room, entertainment, 24-hour room service, and drinks such as milk, juice, non-specialty coffee, and tea.
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What's NOT included in my cruise fare?
Discretionary items, such as specialty restaurants, shore excursions, alcoholic beverages, carbonated soft drinks, photographs, gratuities, medical treatment, casino expenditures, spa treatments, shop purchases.
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Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
Cruise lines attempt to follow published schedules as closely as possible, yet this is not always feasible. Regrettably, any cruise line reserves the right to change a scheduled itinerary without prior notice. Situations which may call for an itinerary change are strikes, lockouts, weather, riots, and mechanical difficulties, to name a few. Cruise lines are not held legally liable for any loss to guests by cancellation, advancement, deviation, substitution, or postponement. If an itinerary change is necessary, cruise lines may substitute another ship or port of call, and they will always attempt to keep passengers informed of changes.
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Why is it so expensive for one person to travel alone?
Cruise lines and resorts base their rates on double occupancy. Therefore, when traveling alone, you will be charged a supplemental fee. Please note that this fee only applies to the room rate, not to taxes and airfare.
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What is a shipboard credit (SBC)?
A credit that is posted to your account upon embarkation. It's yours to spend at the spa, in the boutiques, or almost anywhere onboard.
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What is a cruise tour?
A cruise combined with a land vacation. The land portion may consist of anything from a hotel stay before or after the cruise to a fully escorted tour and airfare.
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What is a shore excursion?
Shore excursions are optional off-shore activities that are offered through the cruise line for an additional fee. They often include transportation to the activity itself, a guide or guides familiar with the area or the particular activity, and sometimes a meal or drinks. Shore excursions can sometimes be reserved in advance of sailing, and they may also be purchased independently of the cruise line if you prefer.
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What is a port?
A port is the town or other location at which the ship will stop during the cruise.
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What is a tender?
A tender is a small boat that is used to transport passengers ashore in ports where the ship is unable to dock directly. There is no charge for the tender. In some cases, wheelchair-bound passengers may experience challenges when trying to take a tender ashore.
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What is Freestyle dining?
Unlike traditional dining arrangements where you receive either the early or late seating and are assigned to a particular table for the duration of the cruise, with freestyle dining there are no fixed seating times, assigned tables, or set dining companions. You can dine when, where, and with whom you like. Because you will not have the same wait staff each night, gratuities are usually automatically charged to your shipboard account, to be distrubuted to the appropriate crew members. Although the concept of freestyle dining allows for a less formal atmosphere, many people still enjoy getting dressed up for the formal nights, even on a freestyle cruise. Many of the newer "freestyle ships" also offer specialty restaurants, which require reservations and for which an additional fee is charged.
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I'm already booked, is there a way I can access my reservation online?
Yes! You can go to the cruise page on at militaryvacationtravel.com, go tp the cruise line of your choice, click on the already booked linke and enter your confirmation number along with the last name of anyone traveling on the reservation. That will give you access to view your reservation where you can preregister prior to getting to the pier.
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What information do I need to provide when booking?
When booking a vacation online, it is very important that you give us the correct information for your trip. This includes city of departure, destination, dates of travel, number of travelers (and if traveling with children, the ages of the children) and correct and complete names (as printed on your Proof of Citizenship) of all travelers.
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Will my infant be charged the full cruise fare?
Usually. Because cruise lines base their rates on the number of passengers in a stateroom rather than on the age of the passenger, infants are usually charged the full cruise fare. There are a few cruise lines that may only charge port taxes and government fees for infants under a certain age, however this is not the norm throughout the cruise industry.
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Do all passengers staying in the same stateroom pay the same rate?
No. Generally, cruise lines will charge a set rate for the first and second person in a stateroom, with a discounted amount for the third, fourth, and/or fifth person in a stateroom. This applies to the cruise fare only, as all passengers are charged the same rate for port taxes and government fees. However anyone traveling in your cabin gets the retired military discount available to you.
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What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and in most cases, American Express and Discover.
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What is the drinking age onboard ship?
Although most ships travel in International waters, the rule of thumb is that the drinking age aboard ship is contingent upon the drinking age at the Port of Departure. Always check with your Vacation Consultant or Customer Service before sailing if you have any concerns regarding the drinking age
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What types of beverages are included in my cruise fare?
Non-bottled water, coffee, tea, and juice are generally included in your cruise fare. Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not included in the cruise fare, and in most cases, a 15% gratuity wil be added to your bill when ordering these beverages.
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Are there ways to save money on children's beverages?
Yes. Most cruise lines offer the option to purchase a "soda card" or "soda package" for a set fee.
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Is there a dress code for dinner?
On most cruises, there are three types of evening attire: Casual, Smart-Casual or Business-Casual, and Formal. Casual attire would be dresses or slacks and blouses for women, sport shirts and trousers for men; Smart- or Business-Casual would be dresses or pantsuits for women, jackets for men; and Formal would be long or short cocktail dresses, dark suits or tuxedos for men
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Will there be wheelchair accessibility?
The newer, larger cruise ships have been built with the goal of full accessibility, including wider corridors, more spacious cabins, more (and larger) elevators and ramps where needed. In addition, the designated "wheelchair-accessible" cabins on newer ships are outfitted with many features that will make your cruise a more comfortable experience. Many older ships may be more challenging to the wheelchair-bound cruiser, as there are often raised sills several inches high in many doorways or steps in the entries to some public areas. Corridors may be narrower and elevators smaller, allowing less room for maneuverability. In fact, some areas of older ships may be completely inaccessible to the wheelchair-bound traveler. Additionally, you'll want to consider whether the ship is going to be able to dock directly at the port, or whether tenders (small boats) will be utilized to transport passengers to shore. Most cruise lines will require a release form and/or a statement from your physician stating that you are fit to travel. They may also request confirmation that you require a wheelchair-accessible cabin.
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How can I contact family/friends back home if I need to?
The most economical way to communicate with friends and family back home is via email. Many cruise ships offer internet service for a nominal fee, so it's likely that you'll be able to send a message if you'd like to. Some cruises lines have started to offer onboard cellular service as well, and of course there are regular in-room telephones as well. However, keep in mind that ship-to-shore phone calls are exhorbitantly expensive. You can also purchase phone cards which you can use when the ship is in port to call home and this is usually less expensive than calling from the ship.
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Will I have internet access during my cruise?
Many cruise lines now feature “Internet Cafes” onboard, where you can surf the Web and send and receive emails. There is a charge for this service, and the per-minute rates vary by cruise line.
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Are there non-smoking areas onboard?
Yes. Today, virtually all ships have smoking and non-smoking tables and/or sections in the dining rooms and lounges. Dining rooms on many of the major cruise lines today are totally smoke-free.
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What are shore excursions?
Shore excursions are optional off-shore activities that are offered through the cruise line for an additional fee. They often include transportation to and from the activity itself, a guide or guides familiar with the area or the particular activity, and sometimes may include a meal, snack or drinks.
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Is it better to purchase shore excursions in advance?
If you have a specific adventure in mind, then absolutely! Shore excursions, particularly popular ones, tend to fill up quickly. We recommend familiarizing yourself with what planned activities each port of call has to offer, prior to your departure. Pre-reserving your excursions will ensure that you are able to take part in the activities you have your heart set on, and it'll also relieve you of having to fuss with reservations for tours during your cruise.
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What if I need over-the-counter medicine?
Many types of medication may not be readily available either aboard ship or in ports of call. Commonly used medication may be purchased at the office of the ship's doctor.
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How should I transport my personal medications?
Please carry any medication in its original bottle. It is recommended that medication be carried in your pocket or purse so that it will be available when needed, as checked luggage may not be accessible at all times. If you take any prescription drugs, vitamins or other medication on a regular basis, you should bring an adequate supply with you. Many types of medication may not be readily available either aboard ship or in ports of call. Commonly used medication may be purchased at the office of the ship's doctor.
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I have special medical needs, do I need to alert the cruise line?
The cruise lines require all guests with special medical needs to submit this information to them prior to travel. This is to ensure that they have the necessary information to give you the proper care in the event of an emergency. Passengers who carry syringes for medical use must also carry a letter from their physicians indicating this.
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