Frequently Asked Questions Cruising 101

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Try and look for destinations that offer unique experiences, whether it's trying new cuisine, learning about a different culture, or exploring natural wonders. You can search for cruises based on the debarkation port, ports of call or duration of the cruise based on what most appeals to you. 

Do not pack your travel documents in your checked luggage, ensure you keep any travel documents (ie. passport, identification, tickets etc.) in your carry-on bags.

In your carry-on bag ensure you pack the following for your first day of cruising, as it may take time for your checked baggage to arrive in your stateroom:

• Identification and travel documents 
• Electronics and chargers ie. Laptops, Camera's, Phone etc. 
• Prescription medication 
• Hand sanitizer 
• Sunscreen
• Swimmers
• Change of Clothes 
• Travel adopters (most Cruise lines have North American or European Plug outlets)
• Alcoholic and soft drink beverages (check with your cruise line to see what you can take and what limits may apply)

The follow items are prohibited, if you bring these items onboard they will be confiscated: 

• Alcoholic beverages (outside of allowable limits).
• Clothes Irons or portable clothes steamers.
• Kettles or coffee makers. 
• Extension cords and power boards are not allowed on most ships. 
• Sporting Gear  ie. surfboards, skateboards baseball bats. 

Start planning things before you go :

• Download the Cruise App for your cruise line 
• Book any beverage or internet packages or specialty dining as these are often discounted prior to sailing (beware of any cut-off dates prior to sailing though)
• Explore shore excursions and tours in ports of call, these can be done through the cruise line or booked independently. 
• Make dining reservations (these can often be done on the app prior to sailing)
• Make reservations for any shows, entertainment or activities 
• See if there is a Facebook roll-call group for your sailing
• Plan and book your method of transport to and from the departure port 
• Get travel insurance 
• Complete your online check-in 
• Advise your bank that you are travelling
• Print Luggage tags and any required travel documents
• Pack your bags

Once you're onboard:

• Complete any mandatory safety briefings and attend your muster station. 
• Grab an embarkation day beverage. 
• Make dining reservations (these can often be done on the app).
• Register Kids at the kids clubs. 
• Make reservations for any shows or entertainment at the box office (if required). 
• Grab a bite to eat at the buffet or one of the complimentary dining options. 
• Check out the Cruise Planner in the App to see what activities are happening around the ship and when. 

When going ashore for the day there are a few must haves to take with you: 

• Your cruise card and photo ID
• Cash and credit cards to purchase food & drinks and activities 
• Comfortable walking shoes 
• Hand sanitizer
• Sunscreen 
• Hat and sunglasses
• Water bottles
• Towels & swimmers if in a tropical location  
• Headphones if where you are going has an audio tour

Before you leave don't forget to:

• If you haven't linked a credit to your account make sure you settle your account 
• Cashout of the casino (if you played) 
• If you aren't doing self-assist departure (taking off your own bags) you will need to pack your bags and leave them out for the porters the night before so make sure you have a carry on bag for everything you need on the last night 

Once onboard you will use you Sail pass or Cruise Card to pay for items onboard such as beverages, specialty dining, shore tours, paid activities etc. You can link your Sail pass or Cruise Card to either your credit card otherwise you can top-up with cash using the Kiosks or at Guest Services. If you have any Onboard Credit (OBC) this will be used first. Some cruise lines even allow you to purchase onboard credit in advance of your sailing.  Credit cards or cash cannot be used directly at shops or bars onboard. Ensure you check prior to sailing what currency onboard items will be charged in. 

Cruise ships have paid-laundry services where you can either spay per item or bag depending on the cruise line. If you are looking for cheaper laundry options see if your class of cruise ship has a self-service laundry, these often only cost a few dollars per load. Check the deck plans of your cruise ships before to see if they have a self service laundry. If your cruise ship doesn't have a self-service laundry take some laundry liquid soap and wash items in either the sink or shower and hang up on either the line in the bathroom or on magnetic hooks. Try bringing some extra lightweight coat hangers as well.

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