Cruise Information...
Embarkation hours
This varies by cruise line, however passengers must not arrive any later than 120 min before sail time.
Dress codes, clothes to take with you
All the cruise lines featured require casual clothing by day, both on board and ashore. Generally, passengers should take a mixture of clothes as it can be very warm by day at sea but can change by early evening, requiring you to wear a light jacket or long-sleeved top and trousers. For Alaska cruises, we recommend lightweight jackets and sweaters.
In the evenings, the requirements change depending on the cruise line. At least one night of your cruise will involve a Captain's party or gala dinner and for this we recommend formal attire, such as an evening/cocktail dress for the ladies and either a dark suit or tuxedo for the men. Please note that shorts and T-shirts are not normally welcomed in the restaurants in the evenings, unless you opt for the casual buffet dining options.
Meal sittings, restaurants, alternative dining
Apart from Norwegian Cruise Lines who offer 'freestyle dining', where can you eat when you want, all other cruise lines have 'set' meal times for the main restaurants. You can request your meal sitting at the time of booking, but all details will be confirmed upon check in at the cruise port. The meal sittings vary per cruise line, however as a guide, breakfast is normally served at 6.30am and 7.30am, lunch 12 noon and 1.00pm and dinner 6.00pm and 8.00pm. Alternatively, you can always grab a snack from the buffet restaurants at any time.
Money - cashless cruising
It is now the norm to cruise cash-free, and to settle your account with one payment, by cash or credit card, prior to disembarking on the last day.
Shore excursions
These are optional and can be booked before leaving the UK via the cruise line directly. Or, once onboard you should make your way to the shore tours' desk/purser's desk to book your excursions.
Gratuities
This varies by cruise line, however the recommended gratuities are as follows: dining room staff $3 per day, cabin attendant $4 per day, butler (if you have one with your cabin) $5 per day. Please note that these gratuities are optional and should be dealt with on the last day of your cruise. Some cruise lines provide envelopes for you to pass to the members of staff. Please note that an average of 15% is added to all bar checks.
Infants
This varies by cruise line, but as a general rule cruise lines do not accept infants under 4 months old.
Visitors
All cruise lines featured have a 'no visitor policy'.
What's not included in the cruise fare
Each cruise line varies, however as a general rule the following are not included: personal items; alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks; sodas and speciality coffees/teas; spa treatments; medical services; shore excursions; internet and telephone usage; water sports; casino/gambling facilities.
Disembarkation
During the final part of your cruise, the Cruise Director will give an informal talk on customs, immigration and disembarkation, which explains the whole procedure, including what to do with your luggage and port transfers.
Medical services
Qualified medical staff are available on board all cruise lines. Generally, a fee is charged for this service. Commonly used medications may be purchased from the ship's doctor.
Seasickness
All cruise liners featured have stabilisers to counteract any rolling motion and the majority of the cruises featured are in warm water. As a result, fewer than 3% of passengers become seasick.