Cruise Questions and Tips
This section is devoted to answering your frequently asked questions.Please select a question from below to get the answer you need.
1. When is the best time to book a cruise? Can I get last minute specials?
2. What is the rule of thumb for tipping?
3. What type of attire will I need to pack?
4. Is cruise insurance really necessary?
When is the best time to book a cruise? Can I get last minute specials?
Sometimes cruise lines do not succeed in filling their cruises. During off-season, particularly, there still may be a number of empty cabins sold at distress prices during the final eight weeks before sailing. When time is running out, cruise lines know that it is much easier and far less logistically complicated to sell a cruise to someone who does not require air transportation to the port city. Florida is a huge market for late breaking deals because of its retired population and its immediate proximity to the ports. If you live within easy driving distance of the ports you are well situated to take advantage of last minute discounts. However you will have to choose from what is available and you will probably have no choice when it comes to cabin selection or dining room seating. There will certainly not be upgrades available and most likely you will end up with the smallest inside cabin. All cruise lines continue to offer early booking discounts which are usually good 6-12 months in advance. European and Alaska cruises are usually booked 9 months in advance. The longer the cruise, the earlier you should book. Besides pricing, the advantage to booking early is the best selection of cabins. As upgrades become available, many times these cabins are given to those clients who booked first. If the cruise price should drop before sailing, you are still eligible for a lower price. If your schedule is very flexible and you are interested in being on our past cruiser client list for last minute specials, just give us a call.
Will I need a passport?
Passports are the recommended form of documentation for all travel outside of the United States. However, in the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico and Canada; passports are not required for U.S. Citizens. All guests will need proof of citizenship which is a certified copy of your birth certificate with a raised seal and picture-ID such as a driver's license. Children under 18 only need the certified birth certificate. Non-US. citizens residing in the United States must show valid Alien Registration (green) Cards prior to boarding the vessel. All others must show valid passports and any other required visas prior to embarkation. No refunds are given to passengers by the cruise line if you fail to bring the required documentation. If you were born in North Carolina and need to obtain a certified copy of your birth certificate, please call (919)733-3526. If you were born in any other state, please call (800)255-2414. Passports may be obtained through the post office and require a certified copy of your birth certificate. Please allow ample time to receive these documents before your cruise. Give the office a call if we can assist in any way.
What is the rule of thumb for tipping?
As always tipping is a personal matter. Aboard most ships, the suggested tipping is $8-$9 per person, per day, for maid service, wait staff and other services. This is personally handed to staff the last evening of the cruise (you'll find envelopes placed in your cabin that day). You may do this in cash or charge your tips to your on-board account. You may also pre-pay your tips before the cruise if you wish. There are some of the cruise lines that include tips in the cost of the cruise and others that have a no tipping required policy. Your cruise counselor will review the policies for your specific cruise.
What type of attire will I need to pack?
Days onboard are casual and you'll be most comfortable in sport clothes and resort wear. All ships have dry cleaning and laundry facilities, some have self-service laundries. Shoes should be low-heeled for deck activities. Bring a few swimsuits so you'll always have a dry one. Beach towels will be provided by the cruise ship. For evening wear, count on three basic types of attire. *Casual: sundresses or slacks and blouses for women; sport shirts and trousers for men. *Smart casual: dresses or pantsuits for women; jackets for men.*Formal: cocktail or formal gowns for women; suits and ties, or tuxedos for men. Ashore, you'll need comfortable walking shoes, as well as a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun. Shops, drug stores and boutiques aboard the ship have everything available from formal gowns to books.
Is Cruise insurance really necessary?
Imagine this scenario: you've booked six months in advance, paid in full and catastrophe occurs. There's a death in the family, loss of job or your wedding plans fall through; or perhaps a hurricane strikes the region you're scheduled to visit, and the ports substituted are just not to your liking? If you're absolutely positive that nothing could change your plans and you'll never get sick or have an accident, then don't bother with insurance. Everyone else, however, should strongly consider it.