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1. Can I book on short notice?
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Even the most popular cruises sometimes have space
available because of late cancellations. So, have your CLIA-affiliated
travel agent check. But, to get exactly the ship, cabin, and sailing
date you want, you should plan and book early. Most cruise lines
also offer early booking discounts for customers who plan ahead.Top
2. What’s an air/sea cruise?
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A fly/cruise or an air/sea cruise vacation package includes either
free or much reduced airfare along with your cruise ticket. These
money-saving options are available from most major North American
cities and usually include transfers between the airport and ship
as well as baggage handling. Your flights are assigned 30 days
prior to sailing by the cruise line. Advanced seating can be done
at that time by the customer. Advanced seating is very limited
that close to departure- However, the airlines reserve 30% of
the aircraft for airport check-in. Air deviations are always recommended
if you want a specific airline or flight pattern. The cruise line
will allow you to request specific flight information, and if
they are able to confirm they will assess a fee of $35.-$50. p.p..
In some cases the airline requested could actually cost more than
the cruise line has contracted it for - therefore the customer
would pay the deviation fee and any increase in airfare. If you
want your agent to submit an air deviation for you, you should
request it at the time of deposit.Top
3. Do I need a passport?
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This depends on the type of cruise and your destination. You’ll
receive complete information on required documents well in advance
of your departure. Although a passport may not be required for
all cruises/destinations. Proof of citizenship is ALWAYS required
. A driver’s license is not proof of citizenship. Depending on
citizenship, documentation may vary. It is the customers responsibility
to have the proper documentation. If ever in doubt, contact the
local consulate.Top
4. What should I pack?
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Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual
by day, whether you’re on the ship or ashore. In the evening,
ships vary as to dress. As 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, or a cocktail dress;
perhaps even a dinner jacket or gown.Top
5. Will I need a tuxedo?
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On some cruises, formal dinners or parties
are part of the fun. But don’t buy a tuxedo just for the trip.
Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine
for the dressiest occasions. If you do want to dress to the nines,
many ships offer tuxedo rental services.Top
6. Can I use my hair dryer or shaver?
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Most ships have 110-volt outlets in the staterooms. But do check
with your CLIA-affiliated travel agent or agency to be sure. Most
ships even feature hair dryers in your cabin.Top
7. What are different meal seatings?
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Some ships’ dining rooms can accommodate all passengers in
one “seating.” But most ships have two seatings, which differ
only by time. To choose, just decide whether your prefer to dine
early or late-then have your CLIA-affiliated travel agent request
your preference when you book your cruise. Whichever seating you
choose, remember that one of the best ways to make new friends
is to ask for a large table. In addition, some ships offer alternative
dining options, such as Italian, Chinese, Japanese or Southwestern
themed restaurants, separate from the main dining room.Top
8. Can I get a special diet?
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Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate,
Kosher, or other diet preferences. However, this request must
be made in advance, so be sure to advise your CLIA-affiliated
travel agent of this requirement when you book your cruise.Top
9. Can we stay in touch with the outside
world? Back
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Quite easily. Most ships have a daily newsletter with news, headlines,
selected stock quotes and sport scores. Staterooms on many ships
are equipped with televisions. While most ships now have telephones
in passenger cabins, you can also call someone on shore through
the ship’s radio operator while at sea. And, you can make phone
calls from most ports. In addition, most ships have fax capabilities.
Always leave a number at home in case of emergency. Each ship
has a satellite phone # which can be provided. We do not give
out information on passengers for their own protection.Top
10. What about tipping?
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Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule
of thumb is to plan for about $3 to $4 per person per day for
your room steward and dining room waiter, and about half that
amount for your busboy. (A few cruise lines include tipping in
the price and will so inform you.) Other shipboard personnel can
be tipped for special services at your discretion.Top
11. Are there laundry services aboard ship?
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Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities
and a great many provide dry-cleaning services. There is, however,
an additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning
services. Many ships also have self-service launderettes.Top
12. What if I have a coupon?
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Always mention up front that you have a
coupon. It can affect the pricing of the cruise. You may be quoted
a promotion which may not be combinable with a coupon.Top
13. Is motion discomfort a problem?
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Rarely. Popular cruise itineraries boast some of the calmest
waters in the world. In addition, stabilizers on modern ships,
advanced availability of accurate weather information, and development
of effective preventative medications have, for the most part,
eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort.Top
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