Cruise Q & A
 

Is Cruising affordable?     How long is a cruise?     How do you book a cruise?     Are all ships alike?     Are there different types of cruises?       Are there special educational opportunities on board?     Do I need a passport?     Are there different classes of service?     Will I get bored/feel confined?     What do you do in port?     Do I have to participate in activities?     Which cruise lines welcome kids?     What kind of nightlife is there on a cruise?





Is cruising affordable and a good value

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Cruising is one of the best vacation values available. There are cruises to meet every budget and situation. Your cruise fare includes all meals (except specialty meals/foods), your stateroom, and all on board activities and entertainment, except gambling. Typically your extra expenses will be drinks, specialty restaurants, optional excursions and personal services…like massages or hairstyling.


How long is a cruise?

As long or as short as you want. Typically, there are cruises from three (3) days to three months offered year round. Most people cruise from three days to one week.

How do you book a cruise?

Like most vacations, it’s important to use a professional. A travel agent can help you pick a cruise that fits your schedule, tastes and needs.

Are all ships fairly similar?

NO! Modern cruise ships range from intimate ships like the Yachts of Seabourn or Silversea Cruises to mega-ships longer than three football fields, like Carnival Splendor or Royal Caribbean’s Voyager class vessels. You can sail with fewer than 100 passengers or more than 3000. You’ll enjoy atmospheres ranging from casual to formal, classic to contemporary. You might even choose a sail-assisted cruise ship, like Windjammer Cruises. Most people don’t realize that every cruise line has its strengths and each ship has its own “vibe. Consult Travel by Signature to find the best option for you.

Are there different types of cruises?

There are cruises designed for nearly every interest and personal preference. Choices include boutique luxury cruises with globe trotting itineraries Large contemporary ships with a huge array of recreational activates Classic vessels that embody the time honored traditions of cruising Exploration cruises to unique and exotic places Special interest or Theme cruises. There are cruise lines that offer soft adventure expeditions to Antarctica, the Amazon, or the rivers of Europe or America. Experienced travelers may select destination focused cruises, such as the Greek Isles, Italy, Hawaii or Alaska. For many, the perfect vacation includes the non-stop “fun in the sun” resort style cruise to the Caribbean, sampling different island cultures along the way.

Are there any special educational opportunities on-board?

Many cruise lines have on board enrichment programs that feature seminars/presentations by distinguished speakers. In addition, there are lectures highlighting the history and sightseeing opportunities of each of the ports you’ll be visiting. There may also be in depth presentations ranging from cooking techniques to renaissance art, for example. What is and Air/Sea cruise package? A cruise with air or fly/cruise package includes your cruise fare as well as reduced cost airfare to the ship’s port of embarkation. You may also opt for a vacation package that includes air + hotel + cruise, as many times it in’t advisable to fly in the day of embarkation.

Do I need a passport?

If you don’t have one already, it’s a good idea to start the process of getting a passport. The U.S. government’s Western Hemisphere Travel initiative By June1, 2009 a passport or other accepted document will be required for U.S. citizens traveling by air, sea or land to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central and South America, Canada and Mexico. For detailed information, go to the U.S. state department’s website; http://www.travel.state.gov/passport

Are there different classes of service?

Today’s cruise ships are “one class”. Everyone can use all of the ship’s facilities. Cabin pricing is based on its location, size, etc. Regardless of the category, you’ll enjoy the same courteous service as everyone else on board.

Will I get bored? Or feel confined?

Hardly possible. Being at sea gives you a feeling of total freedom that no land based vacation can offer. There is plenty of room; it will probably take you two or three days just to discovery everything that’s on board. Plus you get the added adventure of many different ports of call.
 
What can I do in port?

There is so much to do; you’ll have a hard time choosing. Many people explore on their own, or as part of a guided tour (referred to as shore excursions). Many people hit the beach or go snorkeling, shop or visit historic or cultural sites, explore ancient ruins, try unusual cuisine, jet ski, sail, water-ski, kayak, hike or even mountain climb, deep sea fish, golf and gamble. It’s entirely up to you. Travel by Signature and your on board cruise staff will be happy to discuss possible activates while you are in port.

Do I have to participate in the on board activities?

It’s your cruise, and you can do what you want, when you want. You can do everything or do nothing.

Do cruise lines welcome kids? Which Cruise lines welcome families?

 More and more cruise vacations are booked by families with kids. Over one million youngsters cruised last year. Most cruise lines provide plenty of activities for kids, especially during school holidays. Many parents I’ve talked with are unsure what to do with all the free time they have to themselves, as the kids are occupied with their own activates. If your children enjoy swimming, sports, games, movies, and seeing new places, they’ll love a family cruise. Trained youth counselors keep your kids safe, busy and entertained with age appropriate activities, from toddlers to teens.
 
What kind of nightlife is there on a cruise?

When it gets dark, cruise really comes to life. There’s dancing, live music, Las Vegas style shows, karaoke, nightclubs and lounges, feature films, deck parties, and most ships have casinos. There are also special events like the Captain’s cocktail party, Guest Talent shows, guest performers like comedians and singers.

Is there a charge for entertainment on a cruise?
No. On a cruise vacation, entertainment is part of your cruise fare. There is no cover charge, minimum or admission ticket. Will there be people like me? There is no “typical” cruise passenger. Cruisers come in all ages, all ethnic groups and nationalities and nearly all countries and backgrounds. I’ve had dinner with great people from 18 to 90, and all were fabulous people. Just ask Travel by signature for the best ship and itinerary for you.

What should I pack?
Pack like you are going to a tropical resort (for cold weather cruises, pack like you are going skiing). Cruise vacation is typically casual by day. In the evening, ships vary from casual to resort casual to semi-formal. As on shore, let your dress be dictated by the occasion. At the Captain’s Gala, for example, you’ll want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit or cocktail dress.

Will I need a tuxedo? Will I need a ball gown?
Most cruise ships today reflect the trend toward more relaxed lifestyles, while others have formal dinner parties as part of the fun. Don’t buy a tuxedo just for the trip. On even the most formal of ships a dark suit and tie are fine for even the dressiest occasions. Most ships also offer tux and gown rental.

Is it easy for singles to cruise?

Cruising is ideal for people traveling alone because it’s so easy to meet other people. Most ships have dedicated singles activates; dances, mixers, etc. many ships have gentlemen hosts who can be dance partners, dinner companions, or even a fourth at cards. Some ships offer single staterooms and others have single rates for double stardoms. If you ask, many cruise lines will even find a roommate to share your cabin. Can I use my hairdryer or electric shaver? Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms. Check with Travel by Signature to first to make sure. Most ships feature hairdryers in your stateroom.

When are meals? Do I have to eat at the same time every day?

There are many choices. During the day, there are always several dining options; the formal dining room, the on board pizzeria and poolside buffet, at an espresso bar, or even room service. At night, most ships offer several different dining venues. Some ships formal dining rooms can accommodate all guests at once. Many cruise lines offer a choice of dining times, while others encourage you to dine when you like.

What about the food? Is it true I can order as much as I want?

Yes, there are always several places to dine on board a cruise ship. If there is a dish you’ve always wanted to try, feel free to order it. If you don’t like it, you can always order something else. What about dinner companions? Experienced cruisers say they prefer sitting at a table with several other diners; many make lifelong friendships this way. But the cruise lines are geared to accommodate each guest’s wishes; and it’s possible to request a table for four or even two. In the unlikely event that you do wish to change table mates; speak with the Maitre’ D, who will make every effort to seat you with more compatible table companions.

Can I celebrate a special occasion?

Absolutely! Most cruise lines will treat you to a complimentary cake and a chorus of “Happy Whatever” to commemorate your special occasion. Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive, with champagne, flowers, etc. You can even arrange for a special private party. Advise Travel by Signature in advance of your wishes.

What about tipping?

Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about $3.50 per person per day for your cabin steward and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion. Some cruise lines include tipping in the price and will so inform you, while others maintain a “no tipping’ policy.

Is motion sickness a problem on a cruise?

Rarely. Popular cruise itineraries sail some of the calmest waters in the world. In addition, modern cruise ships are built for comfort. Advanced hull design, propulsion and stabilizers make for a very smooth ride... additionally, the development of preventative medicines have, for the most part, done away with motion discomfort on board cruise ships.
How safe are cruise ships? The cruise industry has the best safety record in the travel industry. Cruise lines had U.S. Coast Guard approved security plans in place years before 9/11, and within hours of the attacks, implemented their highest levels of security. Ships and port facilities are subject to international security regulations. Security measures include 100 percent screening of passenger luggage and carry-on articles and use of canine inspections.

How clean are cruise ships?

 All cruise ships visiting U.S. ports from a foreign itinerary are subject to two unannounced inspections per year by the Centers for Disease Control. Vessels must score 86 on a 100 point scale. Cruise lines report every case of gastrointestinal illness to the CDC, and are the only public facilities in the U.S. required to do so.

What is the “cruise ship” virus? Will I catch the norovirus?

Passengers are less likely to contract norovirus on a cruise ship than on land. The CDC estimates that 23 million Americans a year contract the norovirus, making it the second most common virus in the U.S. Cruise lines have implemented vigorous cleaning measures to ensure that guests enjoy a healthy environment.

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