More Information

Is cruising expensive?
We have compared a one week on a cruise to a week at a resort and found that the cruise represents a better value. On a cruise vacation, your meals, accommodations, entertainment, and most activities are included in the fare. In addition, 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, and then get lulled to sleep by the sound and gentle motion of the sea.

Will I get seasick?
Today's cruise ships are engineered with state-of-the-art stabilizers that greatly reduce ship motion. If seasickness is a concern, you may want to choose a cabin towards the center of the ship where ship movement is less pronounced. You can also consider the use of over the counter remedies, such as Dramamine, or consult your doctor about prescribed medications.

Will I get bored?
You can if you want to be. Or you could 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, take a dip in the pool, work out at the gym, relax at the spa, log onto the Internet? You can do it all without ever leaving the ship! If you are uncertain about scheduled activities, every ship has a Cruise Director whose job is to make sure each guest makes the most of the vacation. In fact, there are so many things to do while cruising that you will probably book a longer cruise next time.

Will I feel claustrophobic on the ship?
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 definitely won't feel confined! Another option is an itinerary with many ports of call. This lets you discover new places and get off the ship for the day.

Are there different classes of service?
On every cruise line, 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 cruising service, dining, activities, and entertainment as everyone else.

What is there to do in port?
So much to do, you'll have a hard time choosing! You can go off on your own. Or take a guided tour. You can search ancient ruins or hunt for shopping bargains. Ride a raft over river rapids, bicycle down the side of a volcano, or ride a horse across miles of beaches. See the birthplace of civilization or listen to steel drum bands. Follow the footsteps of history or the wake of a water-skiing boat. If there's still time (and you aren't ready to rest yet), enjoy a folkloric show. Play golf or tennis. Eat native foods. Learn how to windsurf. Sun and swim on some of the world's best beaches. Catch a record-size marlin. Sail, snorkel, or go scuba diving. Go to a nightclub or a glittering casino. Explore dark catacombs. In short, a cruise is the easiest way to see new places and do all of the things you dream about. Cruising is the perfect opportunity to sample destinations that you may want to return to for another vacation. You never have to pack and unpack. The destinations come to you!

Do cruise lines welcome families with kids?
Families with children book 28% of all cruise vacations. Most cruise lines offer special programs, facilities, and activities based on age. Children and teens not only get to meet kids their own age, but often travel at a substantially-reduced rate.

Many cruise lines have extensive programs and special activities for every age group, from toddler to teen. This gives youngsters a chance to experience the cruise with kids their own age while mom and dad enjoy some adults-only time together. Naturally, many of the traditional pleasures of a cruise, such as shore excursions, onboard ship activities, and dinners, can be shared by the whole family together.

Princess Cruises' Youth and Teen Centers include various games tables, movie rooms, and all the latest video games. The new Sun Princess and Dawn Princess have an extensive toddlers' play area. For teens, there are special entertainment hideouts called "Cyberspace" and "The Fast Lane." The friendly staff coordinate and supervise a variety of activities including karaoke, movie fest, theme parties, and more.

Royal Caribbean International caters to family cruising by offering special suites that sleep up to six people. Young cruisers are divided into "Aquanauts" (ages 3 - 5), "Explorers" (ages 6 - 8), "Voyagers" (ages 9 - 12) and "Navigators" (ages 13 - 17). The daily "Compass" itineraries are delivered at night to the door of each child and teen, highlighting the next day's events and activities.

What about the night life?
At night, there is plenty to do aboard a cruise ship. There's dancing, live entertainment, discos and lounges, feature films, and parties with all your new friends. Most ships even have casinos. There are special events like the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night, the Masquerade Parade, and the Late Night Buffet (for that one last bite to tide you over until breakfast). And the night can go on as long as you want. Even until the spectacle of sunrise at sea.

What should I pack?
Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or on shore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. Much like 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, cocktail dress, a dinner jacket, or a gown.

Will I need a tuxedo?
On some cruises, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun. But you don't need to rent a tuxedo just for the trip. Even on the most formal ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions.

Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?
Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms. Check with your line to be sure.

What about tipping?
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. Most cruise lines include a tipping guideline in your stateroom. A general standard is to plan for about $2.50 to $3.50 per person, per day for your room steward and dining room waiter and about half that amount for your busboy. Some cruise lines include tipping in the price. Other ship personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion.