questions to ask travel agent about cruise

Booking a cruise? 18 questions to go over with your travel agent

Updated: Mar. 26, 2015, 9:16 p.m. |
Published: Mar. 26, 2015, 8:16 p.m.
Sandy Fenton | Special to PennLive

Sandy Fenton Cruise

Sandy Fenton with the Regent Seven Seas "Navigator" in Puerto Rico

(Submitted by Sandy Fenton)

So you've finally decided this is the year you are going to take that much deserved cruise vacation.

Good for you! And by the way, you're not alone. According to the Cruise Line International Association, 22-million passengers will cruise in 2015.

I've had the great pleasure and good fortune to have cruised over 100 times. I am always asked for my expert cruising advice.

More traveling advice, including safety tips for spring break.

Never before has there been such an extensive offering of ships, cabins, itineraries, amenities, onboard activities and once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences. Depending upon your interests, passions, lifestyle and the size of your pocketbook, just about every type of dream vacation at sea is yours.

If you're curious about ancient world history, fascinated with fine arts, interested in learning new culinary skills, need to unplug and relax or just enamored with the glamour of the golden age of travel, there is a cruise ship for you.

To make the most of your choices, talk with a trusted and reputable travel agency that has in-house cruise experts. It's your vacation, your money, and you want the best cruise vacation for your dollar.

Here are 20 questions to go over with your travel agent before making any commitments:

1. Where and when do you want to go?

2. Do you want to fly or drive to your point of departure?

3. Do you have a favorite itinerary?

4. How long do you want your cruise to last? 3-5 days? 7-14? Over 2-weeks?

5. What type of accommodations do you want? An inside cabin, a veranda stateroom or a luxurious suite with butler service?

6. Will you be traveling alone, as a couple, with a family or a group? If you are traveling with a family, how old are the kids? Do you have teenagers? Will you need baby-sitting?

7. What type of onboard activities and entertainment do you want?

8. What type of shore excursions interest you, and when do you make these bookings? The cruise lines have come a long way in expanding their port excursions, and the most popular and unique tours fill quickly.

9. Do you prefer a smaller, more intimate vessel or a gigantic mega liner with all the bells and whistles - or something in the middle?

10. Do you want a port-intensive itinerary with overnight stays or several relaxing days at sea?

11. How important is your dining experience? Many cruisers, myself included, consider the dining experience one of the cruise highlights. Choose carefully as every cruise line is different.

12. How important is personalized service, amenities and attention to detail? I have found the quality of service varies from line to line, and even among ships from the same line.

13. Are you celebrating a special occasion?

14. Do you want an all-inclusive cruise experience where all alcoholic and soft drinks, tipping and specialty restaurants are included in one price?

15. Do you (or someone you're traveling with) need medical care or special assistance? A good rule of thumb - the larger (and newer) ships carry more medical staff and equipment.

16. What should you pack - casual and/or dressy clothes - for all ages?

17. Do you need a passport? If you don't already have one, get one. If you have one, be sure it is updated.

18. Last, but not least, what is your cruise budget?

There is a cruise perfectly suited for you and your family - and now is the time to take advantage of the savings and added values offered by the cruise lines.

Sandy Fenton is a travel expert and host of "Let's Talk Travel with AAA," which airs every Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon on WHP 580 AM. For more information and to listen live go to whp580.com and click on "Let's Talk Travel." On March 28, her show will feature Royal Caribbean cruise experts, Jenn Freidel and Roxanne Steele.

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questions to ask travel agent about cruise

Cruise Tips

Critical Questions To Ask When Booking A Cruise From Now On

by Gary Bembridge · August 30, 2022

Have you booked, or are thinking of booking cruises for next year or beyond? You need to proceed carefully if you are. In this episode of Tips For Travellers, I want to give you X big questions you need to ask yourself, your travel agent or the cruise line before it is too late if you are.

Question One: Are you willing to cruise with whatever protocols and rules are required when you sail?

Are you assuming that cruising will turn back time, and be exactly as it was? Maybe you are pushing your bookings out to later in 2021, as you hope that the ports will be open. The deck parties will be going. All the dining options running. Being able to go self-exploring in ports. Swimming in the pools and lounging in the hot tubs and more. Are you assuming that cruising will be reset and be back to how it was?

If you are, then you should pause and ask yourself: am I prepared to cruise with whatever protocols are required by the health authorities, cruise lines and ports?

There is no guarantee that the cruising experience and protocols will return back to how it was pre-pandemic. We cannot know what form future cruises will take, not even the cruise lines can at this stage.

As cruising returns

As cruising returns there are changes such as reduced capacity per cruise, Covid-19 testing before boarding, wearing of masks or face coverings inside, daily temperature checks, limits on numbers around the pool and in facilities like shops. Controls on capacity in the fitness centre and what events can be held and how many can attend.

In 3 months, 6 months or 12 months’ time, the protocols are no doubt going to be different. Maybe stricter. Maybe relaxed. We do not know. Only book a cruise for the future if you are clear you will willingly accept whatever the rules are at the time you sail. You may, like me, be one of those that is willing to do this. But, like me, do it knowing you do not really know what it will be like.

The current cruise contracts and booking policies mean you have to accept the protocols and rules that are in place at the time that you cruise. You will not be able to use dislike of the protocols as a reason to cancel and get a refund.

Question two: Are you set on visiting certain ports in your chosen itinerary?

If you are heading to the Caribbean, is calling on Grand Cayman important to making your cruise a success as you want to visit 7-Mile beach, you really want to go to Cozumel to swim with the stingrays. If on a Mediterranean cruise, is that call into Barcelona key to visit the Gaudi buildings.

We do not know which ports will open to cruises and what the requirements will be. At this stage cruises have all the classic and standard itineraries on sale, saying they will be calling on ports they have for years. But we do not know if that will be possible. It is, of course, highly likely that ports that used to have cruise trade will want them back for the economic boost. But when they will come back is uncertain. The further out you book; it does feel more likely that a way will have been found to have cruises back.

However, if there are ports you absolutely want to visit, and they are the reason for booking a certain cruise, it is worth holding back until you know those ports are confirmed open to cruises. However, if you are more flexible and it is the lure of cruising, and the general region that is important to you then, like me, you should be much more inclined to book. So, if going to the Caribbean is more important that the specific ports then you should look to book. That is what I am doing.

Question 3: What are my cancellation or change of booking options?

Although we all hope things will be back to something normal, they may remain volatile until, or even, when vaccines are generally available. When booking make sure you understand what your options are for cancelling or changing bookings, and when final balances have to be paid.

If they are not flexible, then (like me) look for offers with really low deposits and short final balances payment timings. For example, I have found some as low as $50 with final balances only paid 60 days before the cruise, which means that if I want to cancel or cannot cruise, I only stand to lose relatively small amounts of money.

Looking forward

Booking a cruise and having something to look forward is tempting for many travellers, me included. However, as things are and will remain in flux, ask these three questions before booking and you should, hopefully, make decisions that you will not regret but be happy with moving ahead. Now that’s settled it’s time to book a cruise!

Gary Bembridge’s Tips For Travellers aims to help you make more of your precious travel time and money on land and when cruising the oceans or rivers of the world. To help you, in every video I draw on my first-hand tips and advice from travelling every month for over 20 years and average of 10 cruises a year.

View more of my cruising tips .

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Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent? We say yes

Going online to book an airline ticket or hotel stay is a familiar and fairly easy transaction. When you book a cruise, however — particularly your first cruise — you might want to reconsider the impulse to handle the transaction yourself through a cruise line website or an online advertiser with cheap prices. This DIY approach might not be the best way to find your dream vacation at sea.

In reality, it's not that simple to book a cruise. You will likely run into a lot of questions to which you have no ready answer.

That's where specialized cruise travel agents come into play. Their expertise can help you avoid mistakes, whether you are a first-timer or a repeat cruiser checking out a brand you have not tried before.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Why you should book through a cruise travel agent

You should consider booking a cruise through a travel agent because a knowledgeable agent can help you understand the nuances of a cruise purchase and help you make the best decisions for your vacation preferences.

When you book a cruise, you are making a vacation decision that goes way beyond a flight or hotel nights. Which ship you choose determines your dining and evening entertainment choices for the duration of your vacation. Which itinerary you choose impacts which destinations you'll visit and which shoreside activities will be available to you. It can be overwhelming to evaluate the options on your own if you've never cruised before.

In addition, cruise fares can be hard to understand and compare. You might, for instance, see a fare listed online without the port charges, taxes and fees, which you only see after you give your personal details.

Plus, the price of your cruise includes accommodations, meals, entertainment and activities — and in some cases drinks, tips, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and other extras. There's a lot bundled into some fares and not as much with others. A travel agent can help you determine what your cruise fare gets you. The cheapest base cruise fare does not always provide the best value or best overall vacation deal.

Related: 4 scenarios when you should use a travel agent

You aren't just booking general passage on a ship, either, as you will be asked to pick a specific cabin and when you prefer to dine. Making a mistake in these categories can ruin your cruise experience, as there are such thing as "bad" cabins and dining times (think noisy or claustrophobic cabins, dinner at 8 p.m. with cranky children, etc.).

With cruises, you typically don't pay for your whole vacation upfront but rather put down a deposit, with final payment due at a later date. A cruise travel agent can ensure you don't miss any due dates.

Remember, you might be a DIY type when booking airlines and hotels, but booking a cruise is more complex. If you enjoy doing your own research, focus on what to do and see in the ports of call. Read about different ships, cruise lines and itineraries. However, when it comes to booking the cruise, we recommend you still contact a travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you learn a few tips and avoid any rookie mistakes.

Travel agents can get better deals on cruises

If you're concerned that working with an agent will make your cruise more expensive, don't be. Cruise travel agents receive the bulk of their income via commission from the cruise lines. Their service to you is usually free, though some might charge first-time clients a minimal fee. It's worth it.

In addition to sharing their expertise, the agent may have negotiated group space at lower rates with the cruise line, which could save you money on the cruise fare. The agent might also have first access to sale prices because the cruise lines notify their agent partners and loyalty club members first before they announce a sale to the public.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

Some cruise travel agents even throw in booking perks , such as a complimentary bottle of Champagne, awaiting your arrival in your cabin.

How to find a travel agent for a cruise

Cruise lines prefer that you use a travel agent rather than going online and booking directly. They have small in-house reservation teams, and when you have a question while making a booking, good luck in getting an expert on the phone in a timely manner.

Companies such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line provide online directories to help you find an experienced cruise travel agent near you.

You can also find experienced and certified cruise travel agents through CLIA, the Cruise Lines International Association , which is the industry's main marketing group. Asking friends who have cruised to recommend a travel agent is another good idea.

Related: 5 unexpected places that sell cruises

You might get more personalized care from smaller agencies than from the huge online agencies, though websites such as icruise.com, Cruise.com and Cruise411.com also have experienced cruise agents. These larger online travel agencies can be a good option for those who prefer to make decisions and ask questions via chat. Just make sure you get the name and phone number of the representative for any follow-up questions.

Questions to ask a cruise travel agent

In choosing a cruise travel agent, you will want to tap into the person's specific expertise about the cruise line and ship you are considering. Anyone can read a ship deck plan outlining ship spaces (which you can find online), but you are looking for people who really know their stuff.

Look for travel agencies that are cruise-only or a home-based agent who specializes in cruises. If you are using a full-service travel agency, ask for the cruise desk.

Here are some questions to ask a travel agent to determine their expertise:

How often do you cruise?
Have you cruised on the line I am considering?
Have you cruised on the ship that I am considering, or do you have clients who have cruised that ship and provided a review of their vacation?
Do you have firsthand knowledge about the cruise destination? The itinerary?

You will also want to ask the travel agent if they have a preferred relationship or negotiated agreement with any specific lines that could lead to special perks for you.

Be aware that not all agents work with all cruise lines; some represent only a few preferred suppliers or specialize in higher-end cruises. They get bigger commissions from their preferred lines.

This is not necessarily a bad thing, but be aware if the agent seems to be putting you off the line you were originally considering, as this could be the reason. On the plus side, an agent who is a preferred supplier might have negotiated rates with the cruise line and be able to call in favors, such as that bottle of Champagne or a cabin upgrade .

You should also ask if the travel agency offers 24/7 assistance (usually an 800 number) in case you have last-minute questions or something goes wrong before or during your trip.

The cruise travel agent should have questions for you as well, to better understand your dream vacation desires. If you are calling a cruise agency for the first time, the agent should be interviewing you as much as you are interviewing him or her. The agent should be focused on helping you choose the cruise line , ship and cabin that is right for you. Making the correct choices is very important to your overall cruise experience.

Bottom line

Booking a cruise is a complex enterprise. A cruise travel agent will guide you through choosing your cabin and dining times, deposits and final payment, and options for shore excursions and specialty dining. If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process. You'll have a lot less stress before and during your vacation if you book with an experienced agent.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
Top ways cruisers waste money
The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Important Questions to Ask Your Travel Advisor Before Booking a Cruise

For those new to cruise planning, working with the right travel advisor is truly the difference between a standards, run-of-the-mill cruise and a customized, next-level voyage!

However, with the wealth of travel agents and travel advisors available, knowing whether to entrust someone with your travel plans - and which advisor is the right fit for you - can sometimes be tricky.

In this article, we’ve outlined some of the most important and frequently asked questions you shou ld ask a travel advisor when you are looking to book a cruise , along with answers and direct quotes provided b y our very own insider expe rts!

The goal is to ensure that you book with someone who really knows their stuff and is prepared to help you book a cruise that is budget-conscious, bucket-list worthy and and beyond memorable!

Question #1: Why Should I Even Work With a Travel Advisor?

A great travel advisor ensures that every vacation is extraordinary! CruiseInsider advisors have first-hand experience, insider access and expertise in customizing every aspect of your vacation so you always get access to a world of exclusive savings, extra perks and ways to maximize your vacation value.

There are many reasons why it makes sense to work with an experienced travel advisor , like the ones from CruiseInsider, including:

Unique, unforgettable vacations hand-crafted to your style and preferences
Preferred partnerships with the world's foremost travel brands
Hotel, cruise, tour and excursion privileges and perks not available to the public
VIP experiences and complimentary benefits so you travel in luxury
Access to unique events and destination experiences you can't get direct
Insight and insider tips beyond the guidebooks, versus just "information"
Taking care of the tiny details and important documents so plans go smoothly

"I will work tirelessly to ensure your journey is unforgettable and unburdened every step of the way." - Michele Valentino, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #2: Does Working With a Travel Advisor Make Sense for Me?

A trusted travel advisor will expect the unexpected, anticipate your needs, solve problems should they arise and exceed your expectations with every vacation - so yes, working with a travel advisor makes sense no matter what your trip entails.

Whether it's finding exclusive fares and extra amenities, saving you time and money, offering you peace of mind so you travel stress-free, or simply answering all your questions and ensuring you have an advocate available in your corner, a good travel advisor knows that while every vacation is important, not every vacation is the same.

"I've built trusted relationships with premier travel companies to bring you the best vacation value available – savings, service and support and you won't find anywhere else." - Lisa Summer, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #3: How Long Have You Been a Travel Advisor?

You’ll certainly want to plan your trip with someone who knows their stuff and has been in the industry for a while. Asking them about their time working in the cruise industry, where they've been, what cruise lines and what tour companies they've enjoyed, etc. - those are the keys to understanding whether they're the right fit for you.

"Whatever your budget or bucket-list may be, I can help you make your next trip incredible by using my 20+ years of travel experience, award-winning service and trusted relationships with the top cruise lines and tour operators across the globe!" - Jen Bustamante, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #4: What Did You Do Before Becoming a Travel Advisor?

This question helps you know your potential travel advisor a bit better and understand how well-rounded their experience is. For instance, they may have only been a travel advisor for a few years but may have other experiences in their past that warrant further consideration of their services.

While several CruiseInsider advisors have been with us for over a decade, many have worked in or around the industry whether directly for cruise lines, as sales or support for airlines, in customer service roles major hotels and resorts and more. Not to mention most of our advisors have extensively traveled the world as well, which adds another dimension of insight and experience to their "travel resume."

"A well-rounded and well-traveled travel advisor with varied experience in their past can offer a unique perspective that may be incredibly valuable to you!" - Kelly Berardi, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #5: What Types of Cruises Have You Planned Recently?

If the travel advisor you are considering has had recent experience with the type of cruise you plan to take or the destination you're visiting, that can obviously impact your decision to work with them.

CruiseInsider's advisors are actually experts. Our team of talented advisors have sailed on every major cruise line and use their wide-range of experience and significant expertise in the following categories (just to name a few), to ensure your journey is perfectly planned:

Luxury Cruises - ex. Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Crystal & Seabourn
World Cruises - ex. Oceania's "Around the World in 180 Days" grand voyage
Expedition Cruises - ex. Lindblad, Hurtigruten, UnCruise, Quark & Zegrahm
River Cruises - ex. Viking, AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Uniworld & American Cruise Lines
Small-Ship Cruises - ex. Paul Gauguin, Oceania & Azamara
Family-Friendly Cruises - ex. Tauck, Disney, Norwegian & Celebrity
Yacht Cruises - ex. Windstar, SeaDream, Star Clippers,
Transatlantic Cruises - ex. Cunard

"From world cruises to safaris, or Arctic expeditions to large family reunions, I have planned it all! I've sailed on most of the major cruise lines and have been lucky enough to explore so much of the world and sharing that insight with fellow travelers is the most exciting part of the job!" - Sue Estabrook, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #6: Have You Been To the Destination I'm Traveling To?

Ideally, your travel advisor should have first-hand experience with the ports and places you are traveling, having been there themselves. Luckily, our team of talented advisors really have "been there, done that."

If your advisor hasn’t traveled on that cruise line or to that destination themselves, then make sure they've at least planned several related cruises or recent trips. Someone with no experience or no access to expertise will be relying on second-hand information or the same resources you already are, instead of offering true insight, real advice and actual experience that allows you to truly travel like a VIP.

Our experts are discerning travelers as well, and authentic destination specialists, having actually visited the very places they are helping plan for you. Our CruiseInsider advisors have been tp hundreds of cities in dozens of countries on every continent, from exotic locales to the most popular places in the world. Just some of the destinations our team has actually been to:

The Mediterranean
Scandinavia
The South Pacific
The Arctic Circle
South America

"I've been to hundreds of cities and dozens of cruises in over 20 years of travel planning, including Alaska, Canada, Europe, Scandinavia, South America and more! If it was possible, I’d live on a permanent vacation!" - Brooke Cromwell, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #7: Do you Have a Specific Area of Expertise?

Family and Multi-Generational travel
Affinity & Themed cruises - ex. food, wine, golf, architecture, history, etc.
Milestones & Celebrations - ex. birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, etc.
Expedition & Exploration
High-End / Luxury travel
Religious & Faith-based trips
Charity-related or Impact travel - ex. traveling for a
Large Groups
Land Tours - ex. safaris, guided tours, custom-journeys, etc.

"Being a Travel advisor combines my two loves - people and seeing the world! I can help you experience the world in any way you’d like, but I specialize in luxury cruises with an emphasis on the all-inclusive lines and know the best ways to truly travel like an insider." - Marci Goode, CruiseInsider Advisor

Question #8: Does It Cost More to Work With a Travel Advisor?

You might assume that using a travel advisor makes a trip more expensive, but that's not true. The top advisors are well connected, highly skilled and extremely experienced so not only will you usually end up saving money, but you'll get additional perks, added insight and more!

Some travel agencies and advisors may charge you planning fees or you'll find there are hidden fees, costs or charges associated with your trip. Don't work with anyone that isn't transparent about what their services do and do not include, who won't answer your questions honestly or who won't help educate you on exactly what every fee, fare or service includes.

Price-Match Promise

Our goal is to find you the best available price and greatest value for your cruise at the time of booking. If you happen to find a better price for an identical cruise and category within 48 hours of booking with CruiseInsider, we will either match that price or refund the difference – that's our price-match promise!

Also, our advisors don't charge any fees for their consulting services and always put your personal preferences before the sale to ensure your vacation is perfect.

"Why not work with us? There's no obligation, no pressure, and with our price-match promise, you never pay more for your vacation, only get more." - Tricia Ashton, CruiseInsider Advisor

All in all, choosing the right travel advisor to book your cruise can make all the difference in the world, but does mean considering many different aspects before deciding.

If you have a question for one of our expert travel advisors at CruiseInsider or would like to speak to someone directly, just give us a call at 1 (877) 734-6858.

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10 Questions to Answer When Planning a Cruise

Planning a cruise vacation can be a challenge for those who either haven't traveled much or who haven't taken an organized tour or vacation. How do you plan that first cruise ? Family and friends often get together to discuss where they want to travel or vacation next. You might have heard cruise tales and seen cruise vacation pictures of your family and friends, or read in magazines and online about how much fun (and economical) cruising can be. If you want to "take the plunge" and go on your first cruise, where do you start?

First-time cruisers should find a good travel agent who is experienced in booking cruises. However, before you contact the travel agency or cruise line, you will need to have the answers to the ten questions covered in this article.

After you have answered the following ten questions, you will be ready to work with a travel agent to select a cruise line and cruise ship.

Who Is Going on the Cruise?

This should be the easiest question, so let's start with it. All age groups are welcome and planned for on a cruise ship. You will be able to find a cruise that will give any age group from toddler to great-grandmother a memorable vacation. Families with teenagers often say they have found it to be the best family vacation yet. If you don't have kids or don't want to be around them while on vacation, there are some cruise ships that are almost adult only or won't have many children.

How Much Are You Prepared to Spend?

Let's discuss minimums. There are NO maximums. There used to be a "rule of thumb" that you needed to budget about $100/day/person (exclusive of airfare). That rule still seems fairly reasonable, although many cruise ships now charge extra for items that used to be included in the fare. You can decrease your budgeted cost some by shopping around or by

Having more than two persons per cabin,
Being conservative and booking early (more than nine months in advance),
Being a risk-taker and booking late (less than 2 months in advance).

The minimum price on a "mainstream" cruise line for a Caribbean or Mediterranean cruise seems to average about $600 - $1000 per week. Alaska and Northern Europe are usually higher due to the shorter cruise season.

How Long Is Your Vacation?

If you have less than a week, you are probably restricted to the Bahamas, Mexico, parts of the Caribbean, or a "cruise to nowhere". A "cruise to nowhere" allows passengers to cruise for a long weekend out of port into the ocean and then return. No ports of call are made by the ship, but you can get a feel for what a cruise is like.

A week's vacation will open up the Caribbean to you, and depending on where you live, you can even get to Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, or the South Pacific.

If you can squeeze out ten days to two weeks, you will have many more options--including all seven of the continents.

One thing to remember--the longer the cruise, the more you will need to pack, or you might have to do laundry while away.

When Do You Want to Travel?

Cruises are usually a little cheaper in the spring or fall. Students of economics will know that this is entirely due to supply and demand. Kids are in school, and weather can sometimes be uncertain. Winter used to be considered the only "high" season for tropical locations like the Caribbean. However, summertime costs are not far behind due to the large numbers of families with children, college students, and others who have "forced summer vacations".

Some people are fearful of fall hurricanes, but cruise ships can deal with those by altering their itinerary, although you may see different destinations than what you planned.

Some locations have short cruising seasons. For example, if you are going to Alaska or northern Europe , you will have to cruise between May and September. If you are going to Antarctica , November through February is the season.

Going to the tropics is a little easier. The temperature will not vary much with the seasons. What does vary is the rainfall. The dry season for most tropical locations like the Caribbean and Hawaii is in the summer, and the rainy season is in the winter. This does NOT mean it will rain all of the time. You just need to be prepared for more rain. Afternoon showers are more common. Of course, if you are coming from Canada or the northern U.S., some warm rainfall is not a problem if you have left piles of snow at home!

If you are going to the Mediterranean , summer is the high season, but some ships cruise there year-round.

Where Do You Want to Cruise?

Choosing a cruise destination is often the most difficult decision for future-cruisers. Remember that the earth is over 3/4 covered with water. This means that you can reach every continent and many countries via cruise ship. Even land-locked locations such as central Europe, Russia, or the Yangtze River in China and the Mekong River in Southeast Asia can often be reached on a river cruise.

Every cruise destination has its own special atmosphere and diverse nature. The weather or cruise ship will help determine what you need to pack for the cruise.

What Types of Things Do You Like to Do?

One of the best things about a cruise is the wide variety of activities available. You can do everything from sit on the deck and enjoy the view to more strenuous activities like hiking, biking, zip lining, scuba diving, or other water sports.

European cruises often feature city or museum tours and other cultural opportunities. Ships dock in the major cities of Europe for a day, and passengers go ashore to see the marvelous historical and cultural sites of the city. Some European cruises include outdoor activities such as hiking, but most focus on the great cities of Europe.

Tropical destinations like the Caribbean and South Pacific cruises feature island tours and beach and ocean sports. History and museum tours are a much smaller part of the shore experience.

Many cruise lines' will provide you a list of shore activities offered before you book, either via the Internet or from your travel agent. You normally do not have to decide on the shore activities before you sail, but you may be asked to book the shore excursions not long after embarkation. Some shore excursions have a limited number of slots, so if you absolutely must have a private tour of the Vatican, a helicopter ride over a volcano, or go scuba diving over a Caribbean shipwreck, ask if you can book space in advance.

The activities director will give passenger briefings on the shore excursions available after you get onboard, but it's good to have a general idea of what you want to do in each port before you sail.

What Type of Cabin Do You Want/Need?

Cabin selection is normally a function of how much you want to spend. However, many cruisers will book the cheapest room available at the time of booking, preferring to save their money for shopping or shore excursions. Deck plans for most ships are available in hard copy from the cruise line, travel agent, or you can view them online. If you book early enough, you will sometimes get an upgrade to a better cabin. You might also note that on most ships a cabin mid-ship and on a lower deck will "ride better" in rough seas than one near the bow or on a higher deck.

If you are on a one-way Alaskan cruise , you might want to select a cabin on the shore side. However, the ship's captain will usually turn the ship around in the glacier-filled bays and give everyone an opportunity to see the spectacular scenery from their cabins.

A few years ago, we discovered balconied-cabins, and now we may never want to cruise again without one! Many of the newer ships feature private verandahs or balconies on most cabins, so they are getting less expensive. When determining your cruise budget, be sure to check to see how much more one of these cabins might be. It might be worth your money! Beware--you might get spoiled like me and look for a balcony first!

When Do You Like to Eat Dinner?

Dinner time varies with the cruise line or ship. There are three possibilities--early seating (about 6:00 pm), late seating (about 8:00-8:30 pm) or open seating (anytime within a given time frame like 5:30-9:30). Note that some mega-ships have added a third fixed seating and made early seating earlier and late seating later.

Most ships will give you a choice of seating. There are advantages to both. Early seating might mean you have to get up earlier (although most ships have open seating for breakfast and lunch). It also means that you might have to rush for dinner if you are on a shore excursion that lasts until the late afternoon, or can't tear yourself away from the beach or pool. The advantage to early seating is that you can then go to the shows after dinner and have more time for nightlife before bed.

Late seating allows you to have plenty of time to get ready for dinner. However, if you don't finish dinner until after 10:00 pm, you might either miss the show or part of the nightlife.

Open seating is available on almost all cruise lines. Most mainstream cruise lines offer both fixed seating and open seating. When booking your cruise, you will need to select one of these options. If open seating is very important to you, be sure to discuss this with your travel agent when booking the cruise.

Another note about dining. On a ship with assigned seating, you will also be asked what table size you prefer. Most ships have tables for two, four, six, or eight (and sometimes ten). Oftentimes, the numbers of "two-tables" are limited, so if you "want to be alone", be sure to tell your travel agent or cruise line in advance.

Do You Like to Dress Up?

Mainstream cruise lines used to always have one or two dress-up nights on a seven-day cruise where passengers would wear formal or semi-formal attire.

Along with the general trend towards more relaxed dress, some cruise lines have started to feature "resort casual" or "country club casual" dress every night. On these ships, they probably won't care if you want to be more formal, but you might feel awkward if you showed up without a tie for a semi-formal dinner on a more traditional ship. If you want to eat dinner in shorts or very casual attire, you need to look towards small sailing ships or have dinner in your cabin or in one of the casual buffets most mainstream ships have.

Look at the brochure and website pictures and read the brochures/schedules carefully on ships that you are considering. If all of the pictures of people dining show everyone in semi-formal wear, then you will want to take along either your black suit, tux or white dinner jacket. Ladies will need either a silky suit, cocktail dress, or something "glittery." If you want to leave that tie and other semi-formal wear at home, then look for cruise ships with a more relaxed dress for dinner.

Many women (not men) love dressing up for dinner, but hate having to pack the extra "stuff". With all the airlines strictly enforcing the suitcase weight guidelines, women should probably only take one or two evening outfits and just wear them more than once or mix and match the pieces.

How Will You Get to Your Cruise Ship?

Flying or driving are the two most popular modes of transportation to the ship's embarkation point. Driving is under your control, but might not be reasonable unless you live within a day's drive of an embarkation point.

Most cruise lines will sell you a combination "fly-cruise" package. This often is much easier, but you will need to compare the cruise line airfare price to booking your flight independently.

The "fly-cruise" price will usually include transfers between the ship and the airport, which can sometimes add quite a bit to the cost if you fly on your own. In addition, the cruise line will usually transfer your luggage directly to your cabin. For cruisers who over-pack (you know who you are!), this can be a big help. The other reason it is a good idea to let the cruise line take care of your flight is that sometimes the ship will be held up for late arriving flights. If you are on a cruise line booked flight, there will probably be other cruisers on your plane. The more of you who are "in the same boat", the more likely the ship's departure will be delayed if your flight is late arriving.

If you do choose to use frequent-flyer miles for a flight or want to book independently, you might want to get to the departure city a day early to avoid the stress of worrying about flight problems, whether they be weather or mechanical.

Now that you have answered these 10 questions, you are ready to call a travel agent and choose a cruise line and ship.

Bon Voyage!

Carnival Cruises - Cruise Line Profile

45 Valuable Cruise Questions Answered – the Ultimate Cruise Tips

With loads of cruises under my belt, I am totally prepared to answer all the top cruise questions that I have seen throughout forums, comment sections, and heard from friends and family.

From what to pack to best itineraries to how to budget, I will be going through the top 45 cruise questions and the cruise industry to help you guys better understand how to cruise better!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here .

Why should I cruise?

Let’s start off with the one of the first cruise questions I see time after time from people who have never been cruising for.

Choosing to cruise for your vacation is perfect for anyone looking for affordable travel, multiple destinations, activities for everyone, and many other things.

If you are looking to truly explore a specific city or location, cruising may not be right for your vacation, however, if you are looking for a great time with your family or friends exploring multiple areas of the world for a fraction of the price, cruising is totally perfect for your dream vacation!

How affordable is cruising?

When someone is attempting to plan their vacation, one of the most important aspects is affordability. While it’s super easy to budget through a good travel planner , I completely understand how the cost of travel can increase exponentially! But do not worry, cruising is VERY affordable.

It of course depends on the type of cruise you book, but you can easily find cruises for a few hundred dollars which includes accommodation, food, entertainment, and sometimes other perks. At the end of the day, it honestly depends on what you are looking for, however, the one, upfront cost really helps out when budgeting for your dream vacation.

Is cruising just for older people?

What a silly question, of course not! While the cruise industry has definitely earned a reputation for their excellent service towards older folks, in recent years cruise lines have made leaps and bounds towards including families and younger passengers on their ships.

As a senior in college, I can attest to the fabulous experiences cruise lines have created for families and younger passengers. From kid clubs to karaoke bars to crystal blue pools to fun nightclubs, cruises are amazing vacations for people of all ages– especially on college cruises !

Are cruises fun?

Oh my goodness yes! Like I said earlier, cruises have something fun and exhilarating for everyone. Of course, your vacation will be exactly what you make it, so if you go on the cruise with low expectations, do not be shocked when you don’t have a great time.

But, if you go on your cruise excited, you will be delighted to know that you can do whatever you want on a cruise! Whether you want to spend the day napping on the pool deck or watching a movie ordering food service to your room, there are countless ways to have a blast on a cruise ship. With so many options of activities on cruise ships, how could you not have fun?

How is the food on cruise ships?

The great thing about choosing to cruise for your vacation is that all the main dining facilities onboard are completely included in your fare! That means you can go to the buffet 10 times a day or order 4 desserts and 2 appetizers at the main dining room. I have always been able to find delicious food on all the ships I have been on.

Now it might take some trial and error, however, you will quickly fall in love with all the food offerings on your cruise vacation. If you are looking to indulge a little, check out your cruise line’s specialty dining packages and restaurants to receive extra tasty food onboard.

Where can I cruise to?

That is a fabulous question! And the answer is practically anywhere. While the price of cruise itineraries will go up when sailing to remote locations like Antarctica, there are over 300 cruise ships running at a time in the great oceans taking their passengers to the most popular and most remote destinations found around the world.

Of course, the most popular destinations for cruise lines to visit are in Europe and the Caribbean, however, I bet that there is a cruise going to any vacation spot (on the ocean) that your mind can think of!

What is not allowed on a cruise ship?

While you should totally pack your favorite swimsuits and sandals when packing for your cruising vacation, there are some items you should avoid packing so they do not get compensated on your cruise.

These items are sharp objects, illegal drugs, firearms & ammunition, CBD oil or products, candles or incense, coffee makers, hot plates, clothes irons, travel steamers. hoverboards, baby monitors, extension cords, dangerous chemicals, flammable liquids and explosives, hookah & hookah pipes, perishable food or meat products, alcoholic beverages (typically), floats, inner tubes, pool noodles, and beach balls.

Now of course this list is subjective to the specific cruise line’s policies, so make sure to double-check with your cruise line to see their prohibited items.

What items are not recommended for cruise ships?

Similar to the last question about prohibited items, the are numerous items that you should maybe leave home during your cruising adventure.

While these will probably not be confiscated, cruise lines advise you to avoid bringing them on your vacation. These items include baseball bats, hockey sticks, cricket bats, golf clubs, skateboards, surfboards, bicycles, drones, and kites. Like before, you should definitely check with your cruise line to check what their items they do not recommend packing are.

What are the loudest cruise staterooms?

Once you decide that you want to cruise, you are probably wondering what stateroom you should book. First of all, you are definitely going to want to avoid some of the noisiest staterooms found onboard cruise ships.

These include staterooms next to elevators, stairs, or crew access areas, staterooms above or below lounges and nightclubs, staterooms directly below the pool deck, adjoining staterooms, staterooms near the anchor, and finally, staterooms on the lower decks. I highly advise you to investigate your specific cruise ship’s deck plans to see where you want your vacation stateroom to be located.

What are back to back cruises?

While I have a whole other post on back to back cruises , this enhanced version of cruising is when you book two consecutive itineraries on the same cruise ship.

Back to back cruises are ideal for cruisers looking to spend more time at sea, saving money on transportation and other costs. I personally love back to back cruises and always watch out for them when searching for my future vacations at sea.

What is a muster drill?

Once onboard your cruise adventure you will have to complete a mandatory muster drill. A muster drill is when the cruise employees explain what will happen in an emergency.

This includes where you can find life jackets, lifeboats, etc. and ensures your safety in any situation. Don’t worry, cruise lines are not expecting any emergencies to happen at sea. They just have to follow the maritime laws and protect their passengers when sailing on the ocean.

How is the internet while cruising?

Unfortunately, the internet at sea is very limited. While some cruise lines may offer perks to their passengers like an internet package, the internet at sea is typically much slower and less reliable than on land.

So if you were hoping to remotely work on a cruise ship, you are most likely out of luck. However, if you are looking for a relaxing getaway, this unwanted perk may be a blessing in disguise!

Don’t worry, you will most likely be able to find areas with internet access in your ports so you do not have to go completely off the grid on your cruise.

Are there any extra costs to cruising?

While cruise fares include ALOT in their upfront price, there are a couple of extra costs that you should probably prepare for on your vacation. Most cruise lines will not pay for your flights so you will have to add that as another cost.

In addition, you will want to purchase travel insurance, pull out some cash for onboard and in port tips and purchases, and incorporate all the automatic gratuities you will have to pay once you leave your cruise ship.

The cruise lines typically add your daily gratuities to your onboard cruise account each night, so you will not need to tip waiters, however, there are other costs you will want to prepare for.

Do I need to get cash for my cruise?

Yes! You should definitely head to your local bank and prepare for your vacation by pulling out an adequate amount of cash for your adventure. You will most likely have unforeseen tips, souvenirs, taxi rides, and other things you will need to pay for during your cruise vacation.

You will want to pack some extra cash for your days in port. The ship card you will get on your first day of sailing only works on the ship, so you will need cash (some ports will not accept credit cards) prepared before you go to port.

Are Cruises Safe?

Yes! Cruises are totally safe. I am guessing you are referring to some of the few cases where incidences happened on cruise ships, but 99.9% of the time, you will have nothing to worry about.

Every cruise ship sailing at sea has to follow regulations– ensuring passengers have access to the best life jackets and safest lifeboats.

In regards to Norovirus and other sicknesses onboard, cruises are a lot safer and better at preventing sickness than most other forms of transportation!

The only reason that cruises earn a bad reputation in this regard is because the passengers are contained on the boat and cruise lines have to report all illnesses onboard. You would be surprised by the amount of sick people around you when you are traveling on a plane!

How do I stay in shape on a cruise?

If you have ever been on a cruise before, you know how easy it is to gain weight enjoying yourself on vacation. While it is completely okay to gain a couple of pounds having the time of your life, you may be looking to stay in shape on your cruising adventure.

Personally, I usually lose weight on cruises (weird, right?) because I am always busy doing all the amazing activities onboard. But if you are worried, don’t worry. Cruises are equipped with state of the art gyms that are offered complimentary with your cruise far for you to burn off those calories from the all-you-can-eat buffet!

Are excursions included with my cruise fare?

For most cruise lines, you will have to pay an additional cost per cruise excursion in your ports. While cruise line’s like Norwegian may offer deals that include shore excursion credits, you will definitely need to check with your cruise line to see their policies.

More than likely you will have to find and book the excursions you would like. You should either book these through the cruise line or 3rd party local companies (usually cheaper) before your journey to ensure you will have an amazing time at sea without any surprises

Do I need to dress nice on cruises?

This again depends on the cruise line you are sailing with. Personally, I prefer a more laid-back experience where you can wear what you want on all days of your cruise through cruise lines like Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line , Celebrity Cruises , and Carnival .

If you are looking for a more formal style of cruising, look out for the more luxurious cruise lines like Cunard , Princess Cruises , and Holland America .

If you are a family and would love a fair mix of formal and laid-back vacation lifestyle, I totally recommend sailing with Disney Cruise Line .

How formal is formal on cruise ships?

Some cruise lines will have a couple of nights at sea where they expect their passengers to dress up for their shows and dinner.

Don’t worry, this isn’t a bad thing! It is actually quite the opposite. Embrace the moment, and do not fret, formal does not mean packing a tuxedo or a ballroom gown. Just make sure you have a couple outfits that aren’t jeans or shorts with flipflops like nice slacks and a nice shirt or a cocktail dress and you will be completely fine!

Plus, you will be able to get some fantastic professional pictures taken of you and your loved one, family, or friends.

What is the best cruise line?

How is one supposed to answer this? It truly depends on who you are and what you want to get out of your vacation! If you are a family looking for a lot of amenities and fun for your little ones on the seas, I suggest checking out Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, or Royal Caribbean.

If you are looking for an older crowd or are trying to access some of the more remote destinations of the world, search for Holland America, Celebrity Cruises, or Princess. All cruise lines are great, you will just have to figure out which one is perfect for your ideal destinations, budget, travel group, and time frame!

Can I bring a toddler or baby on a cruise?

Cruise lines typically allow anybody above the age of 6 months to board their cruise ships. That being said, you may want to consider what the cruising experience is going to be for your little ones.

I have an article going in-depth on cruising with toddlers , but to keep it short, your child’s experience will highly depend on the cruise line and ship you are traveling with. Some cruise lines offer amazing amenities for their younger passengers while others only offer babysitting services (at an extra expense).

Therefore, I would check with your cruise line to check what amenities are onboard to accommodate the youngest of passengers.

Should I use a travel agent for a cruise?

While I have never used a travel agent when cruising, I have heard of other people saving loads of money through them. With that in mind, I do suggest using a travel agent if you have one already for cruising.

You will be surprised by the deals and exclusive staterooms travel agents have access to when booking your cruise. Plus, they will be able to better explain the cruising process and all the logistics behind your cruising adventure.

Will I get seasick on a cruise?

It depends. I did not experience seasickness on my first cruise or on any of the cruises after. I think many people overestimate the movement onboard a cruise ship. They need to remember that cruises are literally the size of a small island.

That means you will typically not feel any movement during your cruising vacation unless you are sailing through a storm. If you are still worried, purchase some Sea-Bands or Dramamine medicine just in case any unwanted seasickness shows up on your journey.

Will I fall overboard on my cruise?

I can guarantee that you will not accidentally fall overboard on your cruise. As a safety precaution, all decks are wrapped with extremely strong railings and plexiglass guards to prevent any horrific accidents from happening onboard.

Cruise lines do not want you to fall overboard probably more than you do to avoid liability, so if you are hoping to not fall overboard, you definitely will not. Over in cruise cabin balconies, there are very tall railings installed to ensure passenger safety.

Do I need a passport to cruise?

Typically, yes. If you are traveling to any foreign port, you will need your passport. However, recently cruise lines have started to accept a passenger’s birth certificate and official government ID in lieu of a passport, so I recommend checking your cruise line’s policies to make sure you have all necessary documents ready for your cruising adventure.

I know that is not a clear answer, but this answer is constantly changing recently, so I highly suggest doing some simple investigation or call the cruise line to double-check what you need in regards to identification for your cruise.

What is the minimum drinking age on a cruise?

In general, you will have to be 21 to purchase alcohol on a cruise. However, when I looked deeper into this question when I was under 21, I found that some cruise lines have exceptions. For example, the Norwegian Cruise Line allows passengers between the ages of 18 and 21 to enjoy beer and wine if they have their parents sign a waiver.

Also, if you are sailing in Europe or Australia, your cruise line may allow anyone over the age of 18 to purchase any alcohol on board. At the end of the day, you should definitely check with your cruise line by reading their alcohol policy for your sailing (make sure to read the fine print!).

How do I pay for stuff onboard a cruise?

When you board your cruise ship, you will receive a personal identification card for the cruise line to keep track of you onboard. This card is tied to your onboard account, and therefore, anything you decide to purchase will be easy to pay for once you get off the ship at the end of your vacation.

Now, this can be both a blessing and a curse. You do not want to go crazy charging all your drinks and random purchases to your account and finish off your vacation disappointed with an obscene bill!

Do I need to pack beach towels for a cruise?

No! I mean you can if you want, but cruise ships are typically equipped with all the different types of towels you may need on your adventure. Of course, this means your stateroom will be stocked with all the typical hotel towels that you enjoy, but you will also have access to towels on the pool deck for all your swimming or sunbathing needs!

While you might have to check these towels back in through a ship crew member once you are done, you can definitely bring your stateroom towels into port if you want for the beach. Just make sure to bring it back to your stateroom when you return to avoid a fee at the end of your cruise journey.

How do I keep track of my cruise card?

This one is simple! You can either keep your cruise card in your wallet or, you can bring along or purchase a simple lanyard and cardholder for your cruising vacation to keep your ID on you at all times.

I prefer the lanyard method so I always have my ship card handy if I want to pick up a drink at the ship’s bar or am trying to leave quick to the cruise’s popular show. Plus, then you can hang it up when you enter your stateroom so you do not lose it and have to panic during your vacation.

But if you do happen to lose your cruise card, don’t worry, the onboard reception desk will be more than happy to help you create a new one!

Can I do laundry onboard a cruise ship?

Typically, yes. While you will want to pack your own laundry detergent for your dirty clothes, most cruise lines offer free do-it-yourself laundry machines onboard their ships.

These machines are usually super busy, so make sure to do your laundry at an ideal time (not when arriving back from the port or in the middle of the day).

If you prefer someone else to do your laundry or to have dry-cleaning services, you will have to pay an extra fee. However, this is another option for laundry onboard cruise ships.

Do I need to pay for drinks onboard a cruise ship?

If you are wondering about water, no, you will definitely not be expected to pay for drinkable water on your cruising journey. You also won’t typically have to pay for However, if you are looking to drink any soda or alcohol, it may be in your best interest to purchase a drink package.

You will be surprised how fast your bill will grow from those $6 drinks you purchase multiple times a day. Therefore, you should investigate your cruise line’s drink packages before you sail, and if you are interested, make sure to book it before you leave on vacation.

Most packages offered by cruise lines will be around 20% cheaper if you book them before your vacation.

Are cruises really all-inclusive?

Yes! Well, at least normally. When you book your cruise you will typically see what is all included in your fare. This normally includes all meals, entertainment, taxes, and your stateroom once you arrive onboard your cruise ship.

Watch out for special deals from various cruise lines that may have free added perks like an all-inclusive drink package, free excursion credits, or specialty dining options. These deals are typically running year-round, so it should not be hard to enhance your all-inclusive cruising experience!

What can I do on a cruise ship?

Oh my goodness, where do I start!? With the countless activities and spots on cruise ships, you will definitely find something on board that you love.

From pools to spas to libraries to nightclubs to tasty restaurants to theaters, you will literally never run out of things to do. Some ships even feature crazy once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like bumper cars, ziplining, racecars, and rock climbing in the middle of the ocean! If there is one thing you take away from this, you need to know that cruise ships are totally a destination on their own!

Often referred to as floating cities, many cruisers love cruising just for the amazing atmosphere and areas found onboard.

When should I arrive for my cruise?

I highly suggest booking your flight to arrive a day before your cruise leaves your departure city. Why? You do not want to be left stranded from your expensive vacation because of a delayed or canceled flight.

Plus, this way you can rewind and explore the departure city as part of your vacation before your cruising adventure. You can also stock up on sunscreen, shampoo, and other items that would have cost you extra space and weight on your flight in.

Do I need travel insurance on my cruise?

While technically cruise lines do not require their passengers to purchase travel insurance before their cruise, I highly suggest purchasing some before you leave. Why? Well, you will want to be covered if anything goes wrong during your trip.

Otherwise, when you experience a delayed or canceled flight that makes you miss your cruise departure, you will not be able to recoup any of the cost. Plus, if you get sick or have any other reason you have to miss your vacation, you will be able to get your money back.

How should I book my shore excursions?

You will want to book your shore excursions before you leave for your adventure. You can either book these through the cruise line or another 3rd party provider (usually cheaper).

Either way, make sure to get your shore excursions taken care of before you leave for your journey over the high seas as the internet can be very touchy or even non-existent. You will also want to print out any documents outlining your shore excursion stating if you have paid or not as the cruise line’s or 3rd party companies documents could be wrong.

If you forget to book shore excursions before your cruise, don’t worry. On most cruises you can book shore excursions on the ship, however, they can be more expensive and book out faster than if you plan your shore excursions before you leave.

How to find the best deals for cruises?

I use the website Vacations to Go to track all the best deals on cruises. They literally have all cruises you could imagine for any time of the year you are looking to sail. They have most if not all cruise lines for both river and ocean cruises and you can filter where you want to cruise to for how long.

Otherwise, if you prefer a professional’s expertise, look into using a travel agent who can find the best deals and staterooms. You will have to pay an extra cost for the luxury of the travel agent, however, this could potentially save you more than you invested if done right.

What documents do I need to bring on a cruise?

Your number one priority when preparing for your cruise should be getting all your necessary paperwork all in one spot. This means your flight and cruise confirmation information, any visas required by countries you are visiting, your passport (or any substitutes indicated by your cruise line), and shore excursion information.

You will not have much if any access to the internet during your cruise, so it is of the utmost importance to print out any documents that confirm what you have purchased for your vacation. This may also entail onboard packages or other cruise documents that the cruise lines could accidentally mess up.

What are some frequently forgotten items on cruises?

While I go in-depth on this subject in my guide to frequently forgotten items , you will want to make sure you are not missing some of the items that will make or break your cruising vacation. Some of these items include towel clips so you can reserve your poolside chair and magnetic hooks for your magnetic walls in your stateroom.

Other items include a cruise ship approved power strip for your stateroom and a compactable laundry bag. Make sure to bring these frequently forgotten items to make sure your cruise runs better than smoothly.

How do I get my luggage onboard a cruise ship?

Most new cruisers question how their luggage will make its way to its final destination in their stateroom.

Do not worry. Cruise ship crew members have this seemingly crazy process down to an art. After you drop your luggage off with the cruise employees during your check-in, they will make sure you do not have any restricted items in your stuff and then send it onboard.

From there, room stewards will sort through all the passengers’ luggage to make sure they arrive at the correct stateroom usually from 3-6 pm that same night. It is kind of incredible how these crew members can get thousands of suitcases to the right spot within hours!

What is a guaranteed cabin on a cruise?

A guaranteed cabin is just that, a guaranteed stateroom at a certain level of booking. This means that if you book a guaranteed oceanview cabin you will definitely have an oceanview.

However, the downside of these staterooms is you will not be able to choose the location of your cabin. That means you may be right next to the elevator or have an obstructed view. You are going to have to weigh if saving the extra cost is worth the potential of obstacles during your cruise.

Guaranteed cabins also normally do not have the same perks and packages as regular bookings (check with your cruise line).

Where does the crew stay onboard a cruise ship?

The crew members of a cruise ship stay on the lowest floor of the ship. While you may be wondering, “wait, I thought I was on the lowest level”, well I mean even lower than that. The crew area is off-limits for guests, and therefore, you can not access it through the main elevators or staircases.

Crew members actually have their own secret doorways you will notice on your cruise that transports them to another world of narrow hallways that provide them with quick transportation through the cruise ship.

Do I eat dinner with the same people every night?

While in the “old days” you would definitely eat with the same people every night at different restaurants, most cruise lines have now adopted a freestyle version of dining. This means, if you are looking to eat with the same people at the same time every night, you absolutely can!

Otherwise, you can eat with whoever you want, whenever you want, wearing whatever you want (usually). This means you can choose to have a table by yourself or share with other passengers onboard! If you are not into formal dining that can take hours, you can always head over to the onboard buffet where you can grab a quick bite to eat.

What kind of entertainment is on cruise ships?

While cruise lines are famous for their bingo and ballroom dancing activities, there are dozens of other forms of entertainment to enjoy on your cruising vacation.

From cooking demonstrations to ship tours to cocktail-making to glass-blowing you can find some of the most unique opportunities while sailing the deep blue. At night you can enjoy fun DJs, string duos, and jazz bands that can be found throughout the ship.

Many cruise lines also have large theaters where they put on their own Broadway-style shows for their passengers to enjoy at sea.

When should I book my cruise?

Typically, you should plan to book your cruise at least 60 days beforehand. This way, you can find the best prices on flights and get all the necessary documents ready before you leave.

However, if you live in an area like Florida where there are a bunch of cruise ports, you may find crazy deals on cruises if you book a few weeks in advance.

While I do not recommend this as you are not guaranteed anything, this can be a super quick way to save a crazy amount of money when traveling to your dream cruise ports.

Phew, that was a lot of cruise questions answered! I hope these responses any and all of your cruise questions for your future sailings.

Make sure to check out our free travel planners to prepare for your cruising adventure, and of course, if you have any other cruise questions, either leave a comment below or email me directly! If I know the answer I will respond as soon as possible, otherwise, I will reach out to someone to find out your a

Most Important Questions to Ask Before Booking a Cruise

Cruising is a truly unique and wondrous experience, with the journey as unforgettable as the destination.Before you embark on the voyage of your dreams, however, there are several considerations to weigh prior to booking.

Securing the perfect cruise can be a daunting task, which is why it’s always worth working with a travel advisor to schedule and arrange the details of your itinerary.

Here are some of the most important questions to ask before booking your next high-seas adventure:

What type of cruise trip are you taking.

Before selecting your cruise line or building out your travel plans, determine the type of trip you’ll be taking.

Figuring out what sort of vacation experience you want will help ensure everyone in your party is happy. Will this be a family vacation? A romantic getaway? Wild adult-only group trip? Relaxing solo journey?

No matter what vacation you’re after, there’s undoubtedly a cruise with your name on it.

How Much Are You Willing to Spend?

One of the biggest determinations of your cruise choice, accommodations, activities, and duration is your budget. Figuring out how much you’re willing to spend can help you better flesh out your itinerary.

Are you after a complete luxury experience with all the bells and whistles, or looking for a more price-conscious vacation? Rest assured, you can have a great time at sea whether you’re looking to save or splurge, but deciding your budget ahead of time will certainly help you when it’s time to book your cruise.

What Cruise Line to Choose?

There are dozens of cruise lines to choose from, each with its own distinct personality, offerings, amenities and accommodations, so booking with the right cruise line means figuring out what you want from your cruise vacation and identifying those meeting your expectations.

You could go with one of the major ocean cruise lines—generally large-scale ocean liners with capacity for thousands of passengers. If you’d prefer something a little less crowded, consider one of the smaller river cruises, which are great ways to explore your destination. There are even specialty cruise lines that appeal to a specific audience, event, or niche interest.

When to Book?

When you actually book your cruise can also impact your overall experience. Determining the best time to book your trip will affect things such as ticket price, availability, cabin preferences and more, so it’s best to begin your cruise planning and booking early for the best options.

Typically, the optimal window is a year to 18 months prior to travel between January and March—known as the wave season . During this period, you can find industry-wide cruising deals with significant price reductions, as well as promotions such as free upgrades or onboard spending credits.

Where Would You Like to Sail?

Perhaps just as important as your ship is your destination. There are cruises spanning the globe—Europe, Africa, Asia, Caribbean, and many more—and the perfect itineraries for every port of call.

Need help deciding where to go? Check out our destination guide!

What’s the Best Way to Book a Cruise?

Ultimately, whether you plan to book your cruise in person, over the phone, or online, it’s always best to work with an experienced travel advisor .

Whether you’re a veteran cruiser who knows exactly where they want to go, or you’re completely new to the seafaring experience, enlisting the aid of a dedicated travel advisor will help make the most of your cruise, no matter where in the world you plan on sailing to.

Why You’ll Find the Best Cruise Travel Advisor to Arrange Your Trip With InteleTravel

When you enlist an InteleTravel Advisor, you don’t just gain a knowledgeable travel professional, but a partner working behind the scenes to ensure every part of your trip goes off without a hitch.

Our highly skilled team of advisors specialize in all types of travel, and their knowledge, experience and industry connections helps ensure the perfect customized itinerary for your dream cruise vacation.

Additionally, our advisors don’t charge a fee for their services , so you secure a committed travel companion throughout your journey, completely free of charge .

Why wait? Start planning your dream cruise by contacting an InteleTravel Advisor today !

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104 Cruise Questions and Answers: A Complete Guide for Cruisers

Many first time, and even seasoned, cruisers have questions about cruising. I know when I first started cruising, I scoured the internet to try to find out what to expect, what the rules were, and other important information. This guide will give you all you need to know by addressing commonly asked cruise questions and answers.

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Cruise Questions and Answers: Booking Your Cruise

1. which cruise line should i choose.

Each cruise line has its pros and cons. Choosing which cruise line is right for you will depend on who you are traveling with, what you want your experience to be like, and your budget. I’ll list some of the most popular cruise lines and what their experience is like below.

Affordable and aimed at college students and young families. Ships boast waterslides, waterparks, and the skyride.

Celebrity gears itself towards adults and families. They are a mid-priced cruise line. They pride themselves on delicious food, and creative and modern design.

The perfect cruise for Disney lovers and families. While the cost can be high, you will experience the magic that Disney is known for. Popular characters can often be found onboard.

Holland America

Historically, Holland America offers a more traditional cruise experience without all the bells and whistles. Instead, they focus on cultural and educational activities. Traditionally, they are seen as catering to older adults, but they have activities for kids and families as well.

Mid-range in price, this cruise line is catered to both adults and families. Some ships have go-cart tracks and waterslides. Many things are an additional fee (such as the arcades).

Princess is another mid-priced cruise line. They have a mixture of clientele but are most popular with middle aged and older adults. They also focus on a more traditional experience without the fanfare of some of the other lines.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is an affordable cruise line that focuses on families. They offer Broadway type shows and have activities such as a surf simulator, and waterslides.

Viking cruise lines aims to provide a high-end experience for people looking for a little more luxury. Their per person costs are higher than other cruise lines but Viking offers a more all-inclusive experience.

2. Should I Book with a Travel Agent or Directly with the Cruise Line?

Deciding who to book with comes down to personal preference.

Travel agents may be able to get you better pricing or offer additional perks, however, if you need to make any changes, you’ll have to go through your agent vs directly with the cruise line. If you decide to book with a travel agent, make sure they are good with communication and can be easily reached when needed.

Some people prefer to book with the cruise line directly, either online or through a cruise consultant that works for the cruise line. Similar to using a travel agent, you’ll want to make sure if you use a cruise consultant that they can be easily reached if necessary.

3. When Should I Book My Cruise?

This is a very commonly asked question and there are a couple of things to consider. First, if you need an accessible room, book as early as possible. These adapted rooms are extremely limited and sell out quickly on popular itineraries.

Second, if you have a preference for the type of cabin or its location, you should also book early for the best selection. Finally, if you are looking to catch the best price, either book when itineraries are first released or within 3 months of the sailing date.

Pro Tip: Being flexible with your travel dates or which ship and itinerary can also be helpful if you are looking to score a deal.

4. How Do I Pick the Best Itinerary?

Deciding which itinerary is best for you will require you to consider a few factors. First, look at the ports that are visited to see what they have to offer and whether they interest you. Second, look to see if any ports are tender ports (these tender ports should be avoided if you have mobility problems).

Third, look to see how long you have in each port and compare that to what similar cruise lines offer. If you only have five hours in port, you may not get to see or do a lot in the brief time you are there.

Lastly, think about what type of vacation you want. Do you want to relax on a beach, see wildlife, experience history? The answer to these questions will help you narrow down your choices.

5. What Fare Type Should I Choose?

Many cruise lines offer a selection of fares. Some are basic and just include the cruise itself while others include additional amenities such as drink packages, Wi-Fi, gratuities, specialty dining, or shore excursion credits.

If you are on a budget, the basic fare will always be the cheapest option. If on the other hand, you like the idea of a more all-inclusive experience you can consider some of the other options.

It’s important to think about what perks you would actually use, as well as how much you would use them to determine if the extra fee is advantageous or whether it’s cheaper to buy the additional services you want individually.

6. What is Included in the Cost of My Cruise?

The items that are included in the price of your cruise will depend on which fare you purchase. Make sure to read the details of any packages so you are aware of any exclusions.

The base cruise fare typically includes, the cruise, most entertainment, meals in the non-specialty restaurants, water, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, iced tea and/or lemonade.

Some of the delicious food that is found in the main dining room and included in the cost of your cruise

7. What If the Price Drops on My Cruise After I Book?

Many times, if you notice a price drop before final payment, you can call to get the better price. Just be aware that doing so may mean you lose some of the perks you got when you initially booked. In addition, if you are not from the United States, there may be some fees involved to make the change.

If the price drops after final payment, the cruise line is not obligated to match the better deal. Sometimes, they will offer the difference in the form of onboard credit, so it never hurts to ask.

You can either look weekly or so for these price drops yourself, or if you have a fantastic travel agent, they may also offer this service.

8. Is Travel Insurance Really Necessary?

Most cruise lines do not require travel insurance for you to sail with them. However, it is always a good idea to have travel insurance. This can help cover the cost of your trip in case of medical emergencies, lost luggage, missed flights and more. Travel insurance should include not only trip protection, but medical coverage as well.

If you ever, God forbid, needed medical care during your vacation, costs can add up quickly. In addition, the insurance you have at home may not cover you when you travel abroad. Spending a little more upfront could save your thousands later.

9. Should I Get Insurance Through the Cruise Line or Purchase My Own Independently?

Some people like the convenience of purchasing the cruise line’s insurance. However, this option may not be the cheapest or include other parts of your trip. For example, if you choose to stay in a destination prior to or after your cruise, airfare not purchased through the cruise line etc., these parts of your trip may not be covered.

You can often find cheaper fares and good coverage through other insurance companies. Just make sure to read the terms and conditions to know what your policy covers. You will want coverage for cancellation for any reason circumstances, no exemptions for pre-existing conditions, and medical evacuation just to name a few.

If you travel often throughout the year, you may also want to look into annual plans that would cover the costs of any trip you take within a year. These plans would cover cruises as well as any other form of travel you choose.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Staterooms

10. what types of staterooms are there and what are the differences.

An interior stateroom is the most economic option because they are the smallest and have no windows. Some cruise lines will have a virtual window which is a tv like screen that broadcasts an outside view. Interior staterooms tend to be between 150-185 square feet in size.

A small interior stateroom on a cruise shp has green carpet and a bed against the far wall

These rooms are fantastic options if you don’t spend a lot of time in your room, are on a budget, and enjoy complete darkness while you sleep. If, however, you tend to be claustrophobic, this may not be the best room for you.

Typically, interior rooms can fit between 2-4 people depending on the layout of the room. Sometimes, there can be two interior rooms connected by an interior door.

Obstructed Ocean View

An obstructed ocean view room is very much what it sounds like. You will have a window in your stateroom, but it will be obstructed in some way. The view could be almost entirely obstructed, or barely affect your view at all. Obstructions tend to be lifeboats, metal railings, and so on.

Obstructed ocean view cabins tend to be a little larger than interior rooms, have natural light that shines in and are priced in between an interior and regular ocean view room.

A regular ocean view room will have a window so you can look out at the ocean (these windows do not open). At an average size of 160-200 square feet, they also offer a little more room than the interior cabin.

This cabin is ideal if you’d like to have natural light and a little more room but do not have the budget for a balcony stateroom.

Like interior staterooms, ocean view cabins can sleep 2-4 people and may have a connecting interior door.

Balcony cabins are usually 175-220 square feet in size and feature a sliding door which leads out onto a balcony (which has two chairs and a small table). If you want a bit of a larger cabin with an area to yourselves to have a morning cup of coffee or to enjoy the views, a balcony stateroom makes an excellent choice.

Two patio chairs are facing outward on a balcony overlooking the water.

If you are doing any scenic sailing on your itinerary (i.e., Alaska, Norwegian Fjords, Antarctica etc.) you’ll love having an area with no crowds to enjoy the lovely views.

The balcony cabin will be more expensive than the previous options, but it is less expensive than the next two categories. The price may be worth it if you value privacy and want to smell the salty ocean air during your trip.

A small sitting area with two beds are in front of a balcony in a cruise ship stateroom

A mini suite is a little larger than a balcony cabin (about 300 square feet) and usually includes a separate sitting area in addition to your balcony. Bathrooms also usually have a tub/shower combination. These rooms can sleep 3-4 people depending on the configuration.

Some cruise lines also have different levels of mini suite cabins which can include a separate dining experience with additional menu choices, priority embarkation, complimentary bottle of wine, priority dining reservations, evening canapes, as well as upgraded amenities.

Suites are the highest level of stateroom available and can have different subcategories (including owner’s suites, penthouse suites etc.). These staterooms will have the most spacious accommodations (around 900 square feet) in addition to several other perks.

Four people sit in a sitting area in a suite style cruise ship cabin. Two more people are in the background on the balcony

Generally, suite guests can expect the same amenities as a mini suite, plus free laundry, priority tender access, spa access, a welcome glass of champagne, free specialty dining on embarkation night, and dedicated lines at guest services and shore excursion desks.

Specific perks may vary by cruise line.

Handicap Accessible Staterooms

Handicap accessible cabins are designed for people with mobility problems and wheelchair users . They feature larger step free bathrooms to accommodate wheelchairs, roll-in showers, raised toilets with grab bars next to them, roll under sinks, a larger stateroom to allow for turning radius for wheelchairs, wider doorways, and closets with lowered bars or pull-down bars.

Accessible staterooms come in a variety of categories but are extremely limited. The number of accessible rooms available will depend on the ship you choose. In addition, newer ships tend to be more accessible overall vs older ships.

It is advised that if you require this type of room that you book as early as possible. Once the room is booked, you will be required to complete an accessibility form or questionnaire by the cruise line to ensure that you require this room. If it is deemed that you are not disabled or do not require you can and will be moved to a non-accessible room.

Guaranteed Cabins

When you book a guaranteed cabin, you can choose what category stateroom you’d like, but you are not able to pick the location. The location will be assigned by the cruise line within a few weeks of your sail date.

While this option may not sound appealing initially, there can be some benefits to this type of cabin. First, they tend to be cheaper than if you had chosen your own room. Second, you may be more likely to be offered a free upgrade.

This option is only available to people who do not require an accessible cabin. You may also want to avoid this choice if you are sensitive to noise when you sleep or are prone to motion sickness.

11. Are Balconies Private?

Many people book a balcony room so that they can privately enjoy a little slice of heaven as they watch their ship sail through the ocean. However, you should be aware that balconies are NOT private.

There are divider walls so that you won’t see the people on the balconies next to yours, however, sometimes the people above you can look down and see onto your balcony. So, if you have any romantic plans for your balcony, you may want to reconsider. Also, the dividers do not block sound, so your conversations may be overheard.

Be courteous to your fellow passengers and do not blare music from your balcony, plan to have intimate relations out there, or talk loudly.

12. Where is the Best Stateroom Location on the Ship?

Deciding the best location is dependent on your needs and wishes. Some people love to have a room at the back of the ship so they can watch the wake (but both the front and back of the ship tend to move more if you are prone to motion sickness). Others like the middle of the ship with a deck that is sandwiched between two decks that contain mostly staterooms (this helps reduce noise levels).

Some people like upper decks for better views and proximity to the lido (buffet). Lastly, some like to be away from the laundry rooms and/or elevators (again for noise reasons) while people with mobility problems enjoy the shorter walk to the elevators.

When choosing the best location for your stateroom, think about your own personal needs. Look at what is nearby, not only on the floor you’re on, but the floors above and below you as well.

13. What Amenities Come with Each Stateroom?

Every stateroom has the following amenities: hairdryer, soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, refrigerator, towels, desk, phone, tv, and safe. Some cruise lines also offer free use of bathrobes (will be a fee if you take them home).

14. What Can I Bring with Me on the Ship and What Items are Prohibited?

Irons, steamers, heating pads, weapons (including pocketknives), fireworks etc. are all prohibited on cruise ships. Surge protected power strips or extension cords are also not allowed as they can damage the ship.

An open champagne bottle sits in a metal bucket full of ice. Two champagne flukes sit to the left of the bucket

You can bring curling irons and shavers with you. Additionally, most cruise lines allow you to bring one or two bottles of wine or champagne onboard (but there may be a corkage fee). Depending on the cruise line you may also bring canned water or sodas onboard.

Make sure you check your specific cruise line’s rules and regulations before you board to avoid any problems at check in.

15. How Many Outlets Are in a Stateroom and Where Are They Located?

Rooms will have an outlet in the bathroom for shavers (not strong enough for hairdryers), and an outlet by the desk. Some of the newer cruise ships may also have an outlet by the bed. USB ports are on newer ships and located both at the desk and by the bed.

16. What Types of Outlets Are in the Stateroom?

The major cruise lines will have American style outlets that are 110 volts. Some cruise lines will also provide a European style outlet that has two round prongs and is 220 volts. Both outlets will be located by the desk.

Some of the newer ships may also have an outlet or USB port by the bed.

A white American outlet with two plugs sits against a yellow background

17. Where Can I Find Pictures or Videos of My Stater00m?

If you want to compare layouts and see pictures of any staterooms, you are considering or see the room you booked before you board then you have a couple of options. First, you can see general layouts on the cruise line’s website. Second, you can check to see if your specific stateroom has a video tour on YouTube.

Finally, you can go to a website called Cruise Deck Plans . This site has both a free and paid version that lets you look at pictures of the ship you’ll be sailing on as well as specific staterooms. Deck plans are also available to help you choose the perfect stateroom location for you.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Airfare

18. should i book my airfare through the cruise line.

Some people find that cruise lines offer better prices on airfare than if they booked independently. However, this is not always the case. Always compare prices and flight availability to see what the better bargain is.

a large white airplane in a blue sky with white clouds

Other factors to consider include whether you want to pay for airfare with points (can’t do this through the cruise line), whether any delays or cancellations may be better handled with the airline directly, and what options you will have if you need to cancel your cruise.

To see what credit cards I recommend for travelers, check out my accessible travel resources page .

Pro Tip: Use Skyscanner to check for sales and get great prices on flights!

19. How Early Should My Flight Arrive?

If you are flying to get to your cruise, you should ideally plan to arrive at least one day in advance of embarkation. This will help you get over jet lag and have a cushion in case of any flight delays or cancellations. Arriving two or three days early allows even more of a cushion and allows you to explore the embarkation city.

If you are unable to arrive a day early, then plan to arrive early in the day to allow yourself plenty of time to get to the ship. Generally, try not to arrive after noon.

20. What if My Flight is Delayed and I Miss the Ship?

Flights get delayed and cancelled and sometimes there is little that we can do about it. Sometimes, flight problems can lead you to miss your ship before it departs. If this should happen to you, contact the cruise line as soon as possible as they can often allow you to meet them at the next port to board.

If you booked your flights independently, you may need to foot the bill to meet the ship at the next port. However, if you booked your flights through the cruise line, they may be able to work with you to meet the ship at the next port. Also, check to see if your trip insurance helps to provide coverage in instances like these.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Excursions

21. is it best to book excursions through the cruise line or on my own.

There are pros and cons to both booking excursions through the ship and doing excursions through private companies. While cruise line excursions can sometimes cost more, they guarantee that you won’t miss the cruise ship.

Alternatively, booking excursions through an outside company can help save you money and many guarantee a return to the ship on time, although there can be a risk that you’ll miss your ship.

A blonde-haired woman in a blue dress sits in a manual wheelchair in front of a canal lined with colorful buildings in Sete France

If you plan to venture out on private excursions, the cost can add up quickly, but they will give you more flexibility in what you want to see and do.

22. Will the Cruise Ship Leave Without Me?

If you explore the port on your own (whether you’re on a tour or not) and do not make it back to the ship prior to its departure time, the ship will leave you behind. Make sure that you set your watch or phone to the ship’s clocks and take note of when the all-aboard time is when disembarking.

It may also help to set an alarm to give yourself time to return to the ship. Too many times, you will see people running down the pier to try to get back to the ship before it leaves. They don’t always make it.

23. How Do I Find Private Excursions?

There are several places you can look if you’d like to do a non-cruise line shore excursion. The first place I always look is viator.com . They have several great options, some of which are small groups, and some are private. Another fantastic place to look is Get Your Guide .

I have also had really great experiences with hiring a guide through Tours by Locals . These local guides will offer you a private tour and help customize it to your wishes. I used a guide for the island of Kauai , and it was one of the best tours I had during my four-island trip.

24. Excursions are Expensive, How Can I Save Money?

Whether you book through the cruise line or with an outside company, excursion costs can quickly add up. Save money by looking for free walking tours, audio tours that you download to your phone, or plan to share private excursions with other travelers on your cruise.

You can find fellow travelers who may be interested in sharing the costs of private excursions by joining roll calls or Facebook groups for your particular sailing. Let people know that you’re interested in sharing a tour or set one up on your own and let people know what the tour involves, how many people it can accommodate as well as the per person cost.

25. Can I Just Walk Off the Ship and Explore on My Own?

There is no rule that you have to take an excursion to explore the port. While the pandemic did have some restrictions, most of those have now been lifted. So, if you’d like to just walk off the ship and explore the port on your own you are free to do so.

Just be sure to do your research ahead of time so you know how far the port is from town, what transportation options there are, and what the popular points of interest are. This will help you to make the most of your time and avoid unpleasant surprises.

26. How Do I Find Wheelchair Accessible Shore Excursions?

If you are taking a wheelchair accessible cruise and looking for accessible excursion options, there are few places to look. First, look to see what the cruise line offers. While the accessible shore excursions offered by the cruise lines are typically “drive by” tours, they can be a good option to consider. Next, look at alternative options that will give you more flexibility.

A stone and red brick church with a tower with a green pointed roof stands on a hill in Gothenburg Sweden.

Sometimes Viator and Get Your Guide offer wheelchair accessible tours with adapted vehicles and sometimes they have private tours with non-adapted vehicles (if you can transfer). You can also check out my accessible tour page to see the companies I have personally used and recommend (listed by destination).

Cruise Questions and Answers: Onboard Activities

27. will i get bored on a cruise ship.

Cruise ships offer plenty of activities to keep passengers entertained. These can range from trivia, live music, game shows, comedians, dancers, Broadway style shows, crafts, exercise classes, port talks, and more. The type of activities and frequency will vary both by cruise line and specific ship.

Two winding water slides (one is red and the other is blue) empty into a pool full of water

With so much to choose from, it is very rare that passengers get bored during their cruise. Especially if you have done your research and chosen a cruise line that best suits your interests and needs. Each cruise line will put out a paper the evening before with the next day’s activities, so you know what’s available.

28. What Can I Do on a Cruise Ship?

As mentioned before, activities will vary depending on the cruise line and ship you choose to sail with. Below, I’ve highlighted some unique activities on some of the more popular cruise lines. Just make sure you check to see if they are available on the specific ship you wish to sail on.

Popular features offered by Carnival Cruise Line are Bolt (a roller coaster), Water Works (a splash park with waterslides and more), and Sky Ride (an aerial bike ride).

Norwegian has something for everyone with a waterpark, go cart track, arcade, zip line, laser tag, and much more.

Royal Caribbean’s mega ships also offer mega entertainment! Options include: riding on a carousel, an ice skating rink, water parks (which include the tallest waterslide at sea), escape rooms, laser tag, rock climbing walls, mystery dinner theaters, a surf simulator, sky pad (a bungee trampoline experience), zip lining, a sky diving simulator and so much more.

For a more laid-back experience, Princess Cruises and Holland America feature activities that focus on education and cultural experiences (celebrations of local festivals, stargazing with a specialist, port talks etc.). They also offer movies under the stars.

29. Are There Activities for Kids on Cruise Ships?

The majority of cruise ships all have kids’ clubs for various age ranges of kids. These clubs feature activities designed to educate and entertain kids of all ages. They even have theme nights. Many kids make lifelong friends in these clubs and have a blast.

Additionally, the features mentioned in the previous question may be really enticing to your kids (and adults as well).

A white girl with pigtails is laying on a boogie board and riding a wave in a surf simulator

30. Is There an Extra Fee for Activities?

While the activities I previously mentioned sound amazing, they are not always included in the cost of your cruise. You can expect to pay additional fees for laser tag, zip lining, the go cart track, sky diving (after the first ride), escape rooms, and the arcade.

You can usually buy a pass for the duration of your cruise, just make sure you get the most out of it as prices start at over $100 per person. Also check for any activity exclusions before you purchase it.

31. Do I Need to Make Advance Reservations for Any of the Activities?

Big cruise ships offer an expansive number of activities, however, there are also more passengers onboard wanting to do similar things as you. For the most popular activities (think all the ones previously mentioned in cruise question number 28) it is highly recommended that you make reservations as they will and do sell out. Some popular nightly shows will also need reservations.

For better luck getting reservations, consider trying to book on port days as there will be fewer people on the ship.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Dining & Drinks

32. what dining places are included in my cruise fare.

Dining places included in your basic cruise fare will include the buffet, grills and pizza places around the pool, the main dining room, and some of the food at cafes around the ship. Additionally, soft serve ice cream by the pool is free but there also may be specialty ice creams (like milkshakes, gelato etc.) that cost an additional fee.

Most ships will also have specialty dining restaurants or experiences that will cost an additional fee.

33. What Are Specialty Restaurants and How Much Do They Cost?

Cruise lines offer specialty restaurants for a little more of an upscale experience. These dining venues will have a separate menu and come with a cover charge. Typically, there are at least two different cuisine styles to choose from on each ship.

It is common to find steak houses, Italian restaurants, French cuisine, a seafood place, and sometimes an Asian restaurant. Each cruise line will have a different cover charge, and the fee may vary depending on the type of specialty dining restaurant you choose. On average, prices are $20-$35 per person.

Sometimes a night at a specialty dinner restaurant is included in the price of your cruise depending on the type of room you book or if there are any promotions going on at the time you purchase your cruise.

A white plate holds a pile of Carbonara pasta

This was the case when I dined at Sabatini’s, an Italian specialty restaurant on Princess Cruises. It was a four-course meal with an appetizer, pasta dish, main dish, and dessert. While it was delicious, I had equally good meals in the main dining room.

34. Is There Room Service? How Much is It?

Yes, cruise lines have room service. The menus are often simplified, with suite guests getting additional items to choose from. The main difference between the cruise lines is that some charge for room service and some do not.

As of the time this post was written, Princess, Holland America and Celebrity offer free room service. Most cruise lines offer a complimentary continental breakfast delivered to your room. Additionally, there can also be items on the menu that have an upcharge, even if there is no fee to deliver it to your room.

35. What Drinks Are Free on Cruise Ships?

Your basic cruise fare will include milk, water (not bottled or sparkling water), iced tea, lemonade, juice at breakfast (not fresh squeezed), regular coffee in the buffet, and hot chocolate in the buffet.

36. Are Drink Packages Worth the Price?

This is a commonly asked cruise question, and the answer really depends on how much you drink, the types of drinks you like, and whether the cruise itinerary you chose is port intensive.

Three drinks (orange, yellow and pink) sit in a pile of fruit against a blue background

If you are someone that enjoys one or two drinks with meals it may be cheaper to pay for your drinks al a carte. If you hate drinking water, however, and mainly drink soda and are on an itinerary with a lot of sea days, you may be able to get more use out of your drink package.

Look at the individual prices of drinks that you are likely to consume and estimate how often in a day you would drink them. Then compare that total to the price of the drink package to see if it is worth the cost.

Remember, that many cruise lines make both people in the stateroom purchase the package so there is no “sharing”.

37. Can I Bring My Own Alcohol on the Ship?

Some cruise lines will allow you to bring a bottle of wine or champagne per person with you in your carry-on when you board. However, you may be charged a corkage fee for each bottle. These policies are always changing, so make sure you confirm how much and what type of alcohol you can bring aboard with you on the cruise line website.

38. Which is Better, Reserved Dining or Anytime Dining?

This is truly a matter of preference. Anytime dining is beneficial because you can show up to the main dining room whenever you want. This is especially convenient if you have a late excursion or just like to be spontaneous. There may be a short wait during peak dining times, but I’ve never seen a lengthy line.

Reserved dining on the other hand, you will have a set dinner time with the same table and waiter every night. If you like consistency and no to little wait time when arriving at dinner, this is an excellent option.

39. Do I Have to Make Dinner Reservations?

When you choose anytime dining, you do not have to make a reservation, however, it can sometimes reduce the wait time when you arrive if you do. Anytime dining is just that, you can show up at any time for dinner and they will seat you as tables become available.

40. Will I Sit with the Same People Every Night?

If you have booked the reserved dining, you will sit at the same table and with the same people each night. Your wait staff will also be the same.

If you, however, are traveling with friends and want to sit with them each night even though you don’t have reserved dining, just show up together and request a table that can accommodate everyone. You may or may not be sitting with others as well.

Some cruise lines allow you to choose a table size so you can sit with others (which is fantastic if you are traveling alone).

41. I Have Food Allergies and Dietary Needs, Can the Cruise Line Accommodate Me?

With more and more people having food allergies and specific dietary needs, the cruise lines are adapting and making accommodations. Waiters will ask if you have any allergies and passengers can speak with the Matre De each night to see the next day’s menu.

You can preorder the dishes you’d like, and they will be adapted to your needs. In addition, many cruise lines have separate kitchens to avoid cross contamination.

If you plan to eat at the buffet, ask to speak with the head chef who will go around with you and tell you what foods are safe. However, note that sometimes passengers use a utensil meant for one dish to serve themselves from another so cross contamination cannot be guaranteed.

Although not required, many people with food allergies will choose a reserved dining time to keep the same wait staff. This allows the staff to get to know you and they will remember your allergies.

Menu items are specifically marked as gluten free, dairy free and/or vegan to help you make your selections.

Cruise Questions and Answers: What to Wear/Pack

42. is there a dress code on cruise ships.

Many cruise lines have a dress code. Typically, this applies to eating in the main dining room, where shorts, tank tops and flip flops are not allowed.

Casual nights in the main dining room have the recommendation to wear pants with no holes, a skirt, dress, or something you would wear out to eat at a nice restaurant at home. If you prefer to keep wearing your shorts, you can always eat in the buffet.

Cruise lines also have dressy, formal, or gala nights (they could be called anyone of these names) where people dress a little nicer than on casual evenings. More on this below.

43. What Should I Wear for Formal, Gala, Dressy Nights?

As mentioned above, these nights tend to be a little more dressy than on the other casual nights. While it is not expected for you to wear a ball gown or tuxedo (although some people do), jeans are not allowed on these nights.

A dark-haired woman in a red dress feeds a dark haired man in a dark suit at a dinner table in a nice restaurant

A nice cocktail dress, dress pants and a nice top for women and dress pants, collared shirt or dress shirt and tie for men are appropriate. Blazers are not necessary but many wear them and treat these nights as special occasions.

44. What Should I Pack for My Cruise?

What you will want to pack will depend on which destination you are sailing to, and the time of year you are traveling. Generally, you should plan to pack comfortable and casual clothes for daytime, as well as at least one dress or nice pants and shirt for dressy nights (also called gala nights or dress to impress nights).

Most cruise lines do not allow shorts and flip flops in the main dining room no matter if it’s a dressy night or not.

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45. Do I Need to Bring a Beach Towel with Me on My Cruise?

Cruise ships are happy to supply you with beach towels. These can be used by the pool or taken ashore for an excursion. Just make sure to return them when you are finished. You can get clean towels daily.

46. How Do I Iron or Steam My Clothes?

Some cruise lines offer public self-service laundry rooms which have irons and ironing boards in them that you can use. However, since not all cruise lines offer this service, there are two other alternatives you can choose from.

First, you can pay to have your clothes pressed by the staff on the ship. Fees for this service will vary by cruise line. Second, you could hang your clothes in the bathroom and use either steam from the shower, or a wrinkle release spray to help get the wrinkles out.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Staying Connected

47. how good is the ship’s wi-fi.

How good the ship’s Wi-Fi is will depend on which package you choose, where you’re sailing, and how many other people are using the internet at the same time. Do not expect it to be lightning fast or like what you have at home.

You should, however, be able to check your email and go onto social media sites like Facebook and Instagram. Streaming will be very slow or may not be possible.

Additionally, if you need to attend a zoom meeting or use Facetime, plan to purchase the best Wi-Fi plan the ship has to offer. Connections may still be unreliable at sea, so it’s best to plan to do these activities while in port.

48. Do I Have to Purchase Wi-Fi for Everyone in the Stateroom?

Cruise lines will offer a variety of plans ranging from one device to multiple devices per stateroom. No, not everyone in the same stateroom needs to purchase a plan. One person can choose a multidevice option if everyone plans to use the Wi-Fi at the same time.

If you want to save money and purchase the one device plan, you can sign off so that someone else in your stateroom can then sign on and use the same plan. The key is that only one person can use the single device plan at a time.

49. How Much Does Wi-Fi Cost?

The cost of Wi-Fi will vary by cruise line but averages around $10 per day per device. So, total cost will depend on the length of your voyage. Sometimes there will be sales on these packages prior to your cruise.

50. How Can I Communicate with My Travel Companions on the Ship?

There are a couple of ways you can communicate with your travel companions on the cruise ship. First, you can get a magnetic white board from the dollar store to hang on your door (cabin doors are magnetic). This allows you to leave messages to your travel mates and for them to do the same.

Second, some of the cruise line apps have a messaging feature where you can send text messages through the app to your fellow travelers. The downside to this, is that there is no notification when you receive a message so they can be easily missed.

Lastly, you can use your cell phone to text them. Just make sure your phone is on airplane mode, so you don’t incur any roaming fees.

51. Is the Wi-Fi Good Enough for Video Calls or Zoom Meetings?

As mentioned before, video calls and zoom meetings can be hit or miss while sailing. If you plan to use these features, make sure you have the highest-level Wi-Fi plan and schedule them for nonpeak times. You could also try your video calls when the ship is in port as the connection should be better vs when the ship is at sea.

52. Can I Use My Cell Phone on the Ship?

Yes, you can use your cell phone on the ship. However, check with your cell provider for any fees or additional charges that may apply if you use your cell phone on the ship. Traditionally, roaming fees apply and will add up quickly. Place your phone on airplane mode to avoid roaming charges.

53. How Can I Stay in Touch with Friends and Family Back Home?

When traveling, many people find it is important to stay connected to those back home. There are a couple of ways you can accomplish this, and I’ve listed some ideas below.

Leave Ship Contact Information

If there is an emergency back home, you will want to be able to be reached. Make sure to leave the ship’s contact number (along with your stateroom number) with several friends or family so that they can send a message to you. This is typically a last resort, but is effective if they can’t reach you by other means.

WhatsApp is a fantastic app that allows you to text and/or call other users of the app. As long as you have Wi-Fi and your friends and family also download it, it’s a great way to stay connected. An added bonus of the app is it allows for international calling.

a black and white smart phone show the WhatsApp

Facebook Messenger

Another app that is useful to stay connected is Facebook messenger. If you have Wi-Fi or use your cellular data, you can make video calls, regular phone calls through the app, or text anyone that is also on Facebook.

Contact Phone Provider for International Options

If you do not wish to use an app or your family doesn’t have the apps above, you can check with your cell phone provider to see what international plans they have available. Many of these plans can be temporarily added to your service.

For non-emergencies, you can also email your loved ones. You can do this by purchasing a Wi-Fi plan through the ship or looking for areas with free Wi-Fi while you’re in port.

54. Are There Places with Free Wi-Fi?

If you don’t want to purchase the ship’s Wi-Fi but want to occasionally check your email or leave messages for family and friends, there are a few places you can go for free Wi-Fi. First, most Hop On Hop Off buses offer free Wi-Fi. Some restaurants or cafes may also offer this service.

A final tip is to look for places where the crew members are congregating. If they are in a group, there’s a good chance that they are also using a free Wi-Fi service. They know the best free Wi-Fi spots.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Before You Sail

55. do i need to download an app.

While most cruise lines now have an app to improve your cruising experience, you don’t have to use it. If you are someone who is technology challenged, you can still upload all your information on the traditional cruise website.

The only exception to this rule is with Princess Cruises, where you will need to use the app (or have someone help you) to enter your information so you can sail. If you are using a travel agent or professional, they may be able to assist you with this process. Afterwards, you won’t need to use the app again.

56. What Are the Requirements to Board the Ship?

In order to board your cruise ship, you will need your id (usually your passport), boarding pass (either printed out or on the app), cruise line luggage tags, and your Covid test and proof of vaccination (if required). You will also need to complete a health questionnaire to ensure you are healthy at the time of sailing.

Cruise lines have been assigning boarding times to decrease crowds, so make sure to check to see what your assigned time is.

57. Do I Need a Passport to Cruise?

Most closed loop cruises that begin and end in the United States do not require a passport if you are a US citizen. However, you should really consider always bringing your passport with you in case you need to disembark for a medical emergency in a foreign country.

There are also some exceptions to this general rule. Always make sure to read your cruise information and speak with the cruise line. You don’t want to miss out on your trip because you don’t have the right identification.

58. Do I Need to Get a VISA?

To know whether or not a VISA is required for your sailing, make sure to look up your individual situation. VISA requirements will depend on your citizenship and the country you are traveling to. Googling this information will give you appropriate guidelines and information.

Remember… it is your responsibility to find out this information and not your travel agent or the cruise line. You can and will be denied boarding if you don’t have the correct paperwork and documentation.

59. What Will the Weather Be Like?

an aerial view of two swirling formations that resemble hurricanes

Weather for your cruise will depend on your destination as well as the time of year you are sailing. For example, if you are sailing to the Caribbean during the months of June to November, you may encounter hurricanes. Likewise, sailing the Mediterranean during summer will likely have hot temperatures.

When deciding what cruise to take and when, consider the average weather for various times of year to help you make your decisions. Also, make sure to check the weather for your destinations when packing so that you are prepared.

60. How Do I Get to the Cruise Ship?

If you are flying to reach the port, you can book transfers through the cruise line. They will meet you at the airport and then transfer you to your ship as well as assist with your luggage. If you are arriving early, the cruise line can also arrange a hotel and provide transfers from there.

Alternatively, you could take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi to the port from your hotel or airport. If you are driving to the port, check out what parking options are available and the prices that may be associated with long term parking.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Checking into Your Cruise

61. when can i board the cruise ship.

Cruise lines will assign you a boarding time to prevent large crowds of people at the port and to assist with making it a smoother process. Generally, boarding won’t begin until everyone disembarks the ship from the previous sailing. Early boarding groups can expect to be assigned times around 11 am.

62. What Documents Will I Need to Board My Cruise?

Make sure to bring your boarding pass, photo identification (usually your passport), cruise line issued luggage tags, Visa (if needed), negative Covid test (if required), and proof of any necessary vaccinations.

63. What is the Check-In Process Like?

When you arrive to the cruise port, you will drop off you luggage in the designated area (or hand it off to the porters) and then proceed to the check in area. You will go through security (where your carryon will be ex-rayed and you will pass through a metal detector. You will then present your boarding pass and other required documentation to be reviewed.

If you need assistance with boarding, there will be wheelchairs and staff that can assist you.

64. How Long Will the Check-In Process Take?

Check in for your cruise can go quickly and smoothly if everyone follows their assigned boarding times. If, however, people arrive earlier than they’re supposed to there can be lengthy lines and longer wait times. As a result, check in can take as little as 15 minutes or as long as an hour.

65. What Happens to My Luggage During Check-In?

When you hand over your luggage at check-in, it will be scanned for prohibited items, and loaded on the ship. It will be delivered to your stateroom after all the luggage has been loaded onto the ship.

66. Will My Stateroom Be Ready When I Board?

Depending on the time you board the ship, your stateroom may not be ready yet. Typically, you can enter your stateroom around 2 pm. An announcement should be made over the loudspeaker notifying you when your room is ready.

67. Where Can I Eat Lunch on Embarkation Day?

While you wait for your room to be ready, head to the buffet or pool side eateries to for a bite to eat. If you are sailing with Princess Cruises, check to see if your ship has an Alfredo’s restaurant onboard. This free restaurant makes an excellent location for your embarkation day lunch.

Sometimes the main dining room will have lunch available, and sometimes they won’t. Ask when you board to see if this service is available.

Cruise Questions and Answers: Accessibility

68. are cruises wheelchair accessible.

River cruises and expedition ships are unfortunately, not wheelchair accessible. However, all the major ocean cruise lines are wheelchair accessible. They offer accessible staterooms and paths around the ship.

Theaters have dedicated spaces for wheelchair users, and dining room staff are happy to accommodate you to make sure you get a table that is easy to access. Many ships also have lifts to assist you in getting into the pools and/or hot tubs. Sometimes these lifts will already be set up and other times, you will need to ask a crew member to set them up for you.

A blonde-haired woman is wearing a grey sweater and black dress while sitting in a wheelchair on a cruise ship with the sun setting behind her proving that cruises are wheelchair accessible

Honestly, I find cruising to be a great accessible way to vacation. I can book an accessible cabin and not have to worry about getting a room that won’t fit my needs. Cruising also allows me to visit places that aren’t typically known for their accessibility.

69. Who Do I Contact for Accessibility Information?

If you have specific questions on the accessibility of your cruise that is not answered online, you should contact the cruise line’s accessibility department. The email and/or phone number for this department can be found on the cruise line’s website.

70. Do I Really Need to Fill Out the Accessibility Form or Questionnaire?

Yes! If you booked an accessible cabin, you will need to complete this form. If you fail to do this, you can and will be moved to a non-accessible standard stateroom.

This form also helps the cruise line be aware of any needs you may have so they can ensure that accessible shore excursions will meet your individual needs. Additionally, the accessibility department will be better able to answer any questions you may have about your trip utilizing your answers on this form.

71. Is There Wheelchair Assistance to Get On and Off the Ship?

If you have mobility problems and require assistance boarding or disembarking the ship, notify the cruise line of your request. There are people in the port that have wheelchairs to assist you with this process. Some cruise lines require that you request this service in advance and some allow you to make your request upon arrival.

72. Should I Rent a Mobility Scooter or Wheelchair?

If you have mobility problems, you should consider renting a device to assist you during your cruise. Cruise ships are large by nature, and you can wear yourself out trying to navigate around them. Additionally, renting a scooter or wheelchair may help you to explore the ports more freely.

73. How Do I Rent a Mobility Scooter or Wheelchair?

If you are not traveling with your own device, you will need to rent one for your cruise. The cruise line will not be able to provide you with a wheelchair or scooter. There are two approved companies that the cruise line use for mobility aid rentals.

a manual wheelchair sits parallel to your view with a dark background

Special Needs at Sea

Special needs at sea allows you to rent a mobility scooter, manual wheelchair, powered wheelchair and other assistive devices (such as bathroom aids, hospital beds, oxygen and more). They can deliver your rentals directly to your stateroom to make everything hassle free.

Scootaround

Scootaround is the other major company that cruises use. They focus solely on mobility devices such as scooters and wheelchairs. They can also deliver rentals to your stateroom.

74. Can a Mobility Scooter or Wheelchair Fit in a Non-Accessible Room?

In standard stateroom cabins, the doors are not wide enough to accommodate a mobility scooter or wheelchair. Even if your device is narrow enough to go through the door, there typically is not enough room inside the cabin to store your scooter or wheelchair.

Additionally, you are not able to leave your mobility device in the hall outside of your room as it is a safety hazard and prevents people from freely passing in the hallway.

75. Where are the Best Wheelchair Accessible Cruise Destinations?

Accessible travel still has a long way to go to be truly accessible to all. Each destination will pose challenges to wheelchair users and people with mobility problems, however, there are some destinations that are more accessible than others.

A rocky coastline curves around the ocean with two visible beaches. Mountains are in the background at this beautiful Hawaiian location

Cruising to Europe , the Caribbean, US destinations (i.e. Hawaii and Alaska), and Australia/New Zealand make excellent choices.

76. Why Should People with Mobility Problems Avoid Tender Ports?

Tender ports are not recommended for people with mobility problems for a couple of reasons. First, most tenders do not allow for someone to stay in their wheelchair or mobility scooter to board, thus requiring people to have some level of mobility. This can be problematic as the tender and the platform to board the tender are moving with the waves of the ocean, making them unstable.

an orange and white ender boat is pulled alongside a grey floating dock

Second, even if you have some mobility, there is no guarantee that you will be able to use the tender system. It is up to the officer in charge to decide whether the weather and other conditions allow for safe use of the tender for people with mobility problems.

Cruise Questions and Answers: COVID Protocols

77. do i need to be vaccinated to cruise.

While many of the COVID restrictions have lifted for travel, there are some destinations that still require you to be vaccinated in order to visit. Check with the cruise line regarding your specific itinerary to find out the regulations.

Most destinations however, no longer have this requirement and many cruises are allowing guests who are not vaccinated to sail.

78. Do I Need to Do a COVID Test Prior to Boarding?

Many cruise lines have also lifted the testing requirement, except when a destination requires it. For example, Australia and destinations in South America are still requiring guests to test before boarding the ship. Again, it is highly recommended that you speak to the cruise line about the specific requirements for your particular sailing.

79. Will I Need to Wear a Face Mask and Social Distance?

Covid is a fluent situation and ever changing. Many cruise lines have done away with mask policies for passengers, but this may change even during the course of your cruise depending on how many people contract the disease while on board.

80. What Happens If I Test Positive for COVID During My Cruise?

If you test positive for Covid during your cruise, you will be quarantined in your cabin. If your cabin mate tests negative, you will be given the option to be moved to another cabin to quarantine (to prevent them from catching it as well). Cruise lines will prorate the cost of your cruise and you will receive a refund for the days you were in quarantine.

Additionally, you may be disembarked from the ship and placed in a hotel to quarantine.

Frequently Asked Cruise Questions and Answers

81. how do i know if cruising is right for me.

If reading this post still has you questioning whether cruising is right for you , that is normal. If you have never cruised before, you will understandably have some concerns.

In short, if you like to easily visit multiple destinations, only have to unpack once, and have access to delicious food and fun entertainment, then cruising may be a great fit for you.

82. How Long of a Cruise Should I Start with for My First Cruise?

Many people assume that they should start with a three-to-four-day cruise to see if they like the experience. However, I would recommend against this as you do not truly get to experience everything a cruise has to offer in this short amount of time. Instead, you should start with a seven day cruise so you can get the full experience.

Personally, I enjoy a 10–14-day cruise the most as you can relax and experience several destinations.

83. Is Cruising Affordable?

When you factor in all that you get on a cruise (hotel, meals, transportation, entertainment) you realize that cruising can be a very affordable way to travel. This is especially true if you are visiting areas that are notoriously expensive (i.e., Norway).

Additionally, if you live close (or within driving distance) form a major cruise port, you also save money on airfare. Sales during the wave season (January-March) and around the holidays also make cruising more affordable.

If you’d like more ideas on ways to cruise on a budget, check out this post !

84. Who Are the People That Cruise?

Cruising is for everyone! You will find families, single travelers, couples, people with disabilities, young as well as older individuals on cruises. Each cruise line has a different main demographic.

Generally, however, you will find that cruisers are people that love to travel, have fun and new experiences, and enjoy spending time on the ocean.

85. Which Cruise Lines Have the Best Food?

Let’s face it, no one is going to go hungry on a cruise. However, there are some lines that are more known for having a delicious dining experience. These cruise lines are Holland America, Princess, and Celebrity.

Three pork ribs sit on a white plate in front of a baked potato

86. What Are Back-to-Back Cruises?

Back-to-back cruises are two consecutive cruises taken on the same ship. Sometimes two 7-day cruises will be booked as one 14-day cruise. This would be considered a back-to-back cruise. When possible, participants can stay in the same stateroom for these two cruises. Alternatively, guests may also need to change staterooms between sailings.

87. Do I Need to Get Off the Ship If I’m Doing a Back-to-Back Cruise?

When doing a back-to-back cruise, sometimes you will need to report to a common area, such as the theater and sometimes you’ll need to disembark the ship.

Follow the directions you are given as what you’ll need to do will depend on the location you are traveling to. If you need to disembark, it will only be for a few minutes and then you can reboard.

88. What is a Muster Drill and Are They Really Necessary?

A muster drill is a safety drill that informs you what to do in an emergency, where to go, and how you will be notified when an emergency is occurring. It’s a short video that you can watch in the cruise line app or on your stateroom tv. Afterwards, you will go to your muster meeting station and check in with a crew member, so they know that you have gotten the necessary information.

If you do not complete this drill, the ship cannot leave port. The crew will know who hasn’t completed the muster drill and have to track you down in order for you to complete it.

Don’t be that person that holds up the ship. Just take a few quick minutes to complete the drill and then relax and enjoy your cruise.

89. Is Cruising Safe?

You may have heard in the news about people going overboard or fighting on cruises and wonder whether cruising is safe. Despite these incidences, yes, cruising is very safe. When people fall overboard, it is often a suicide attempt or someone falling after having too much to drink.

Fights or brawls on cruises are rare and typically happen on cruise lines known for people who like to party (like Carnival).

If you are worried about contracting an illness, cruise lines have a slight increase in diseases such as norovirus due to the close quarters, but there are similar risks to those you would have on land for other diseases.

90. Will I Gain Weight on My Cruise?

Only you are in control of the answer to this question. Sure, there will be food available all day to tempt you, but it’s up to you to decide when and what you want to eat. Additionally, there are gyms onboard the ships as well as walking tracks that you can utilize to help offset all those delicious calories you eat.

a white pair of feet are on a black scale which has a round dial to measure weight

In addition to the sweet treats and loads of carbs served, there are also healthier options to choose from to help you control your calorie intake.

91. Do I Need to Take Cash on My Cruise?

As part of the information you submit prior to your cruise, you will need to provide a credit card for any charges while you are on the ship. As a result, you will not need any cash while on the cruise ship, however, you will want some cash and local currency for any purchases or tips for tours while you are ashore.

92. Are There Any Age Restrictions on Cruises?

Some cruise lines do have age restrictions and may require that passengers be a certain minimal age in order to sail. Usually, cruise lines will not allow infants to sail. Check with your specific line’s regulations before you book.

93. Is Laundry Available on My Cruise Ship?

All ships have laundry services that you can pay for. Utilizing these services will cost a set price per item or you can choose to have a flat rate for whatever you can fit into a small bag. Additionally, some cruise lines also offer a laundromat where you can do your own laundry (which is cheaper than sending it out).

94. What Happens If I Lose My Room Key Card?

If you lose your room key, do not fear. Go to the guest services desk and let them know. They will provide you with a new one.

Many people keep their cards on a lanyard to help prevent this from happening. Guest services will punch the hole in the cards so you can put them on the lanyard.

Alternatively, you could also get a plastic holder to put the card in (the holder will then attach to the lanyard).

95. Will I Get Seasick?

If you are prone to sea sickness, you may have concerns about cruising. While I cannot guarantee that you won’t be affected by sea sickness, I can give you some tips to prevent it and recommend destinations where this may be less of a problem.

Seasick Prevention Tips

Use Bonine, Dramamine or Sea Bands to Prevent Illness
Eat Ginger and/or Green Apples
Make Sure to Have Food in Your Stomach
Choose a Stateroom in the Middle of the Ship, with a Window and on a Lower Deck
Avoid Alcohol
Keep Your Eye on the Horizon
Get Plenty of Sleep
Sail on a Larger Ship as They Tend to Have Better Stabilizers

Best Destinations to Avoid Rough Waters

In addition to the previous tips, there are some destinations that typically have calmer waters. If you want to avoid rough waters, the destinations below are fantastic options.

Alaska’s Inside Passage (choose departure ports of either Vancouver or Whittier)
The Caribbean (when you sail between December and May)
The Mediterranean
Scandanavia
River Cruises

96. Will I Feel Claustrophobic?

People who are claustrophobic may also have concerns about cruising. Cruise ships are very large and have plenty of open areas so many people do not feel closed in.

If, however, you are prone to claustrophobia, make sure to get a stateroom with either a window or balcony. Additionally, you may also want to choose a port intensive itinerary where you have plenty of chances to get off the ship.

97. What is a Cruise Tour?

A cruise tour is a combination of a cruise and land tour. These are organized by the cruise line and provide lodging, transportation and sometimes tours.

The most popular example of a cruise tour is an Alaskan cruise tour. You can sail along the coast of Alaska and then travel inland to places such as Denali National Park and Fairbanks. Land portions can be done prior to the cruise or after you disembark.

98. What is Onboard Credit (OBC)?

Onboard credits are like free money that you can use for purchases while on the cruise ship. These can be used for shore excursions, tips, specialty dining, drinks, spa treatments and more. Some cruise lines allow you to use these credits to book these services in advance but other lines like Holland America require you to be on the ship before you can utilize them.

99. How Do I Get Onboard Credit?

You can receive onboard credits as part of sales promotions, as gifts or as a perk when you book using a travel agent, when you are a stockholder, or when referring others to a cruise.

100. Are There Any Discounts Available for Cruising?

If you are a savvy budget traveler, you may be looking for additional ways to save money on your cruise . This section will look at some of the most popular ways to get some discounts.

Stockholder

When you buy stock from the cruise line you are sailing on (usually the parent company) you can receive onboard credit for each cruise you take. You will just need to submit proof that you are a stockholder of a certain number of shares (at least 100 shares).

Some cruise lines offer onboard credit if you refer someone who has never sailed with them before. Amounts of credit received will vary by cruise line and not all lines offer this credit. At the time of this writing, Holland America offers $50 onboard credit for the referrer and Princess offers $25 for the referrer and the person being referred.

Veteran’s

Some lines offer onboard credit or discounts for individuals that have served in the United States military. You could be an active service member or a veteran. Check to see specific details with your travel agent or the cruise line.

A shadow of a man in the military saluting someone against an orange and yellow background

Cruise lines offer a variety of sales throughout the year. Wave season sales (which happen every January-March) are some of the most popular. Additionally, sales can happen around major holidays or on last-minute sailings when the lines are trying to fill up the ships.

101. Will it Feel Crowded on the Ship?

Cruise ships can vary greatly in size. Some of the largest ones can hold 4-5,000 passengers. So, you may be wondering if it will feel crowded on the ship. While I have not been on any of the mega cruise ships, I have never felt overwhelmed by crowds.

The largest gatherings will be at the entertainment shows, which can take place in the theater or smaller venues on the ship. Additionally, at popular dining times, the buffet can seem crowded.

I have found that there are plenty of nooks and quiet places on cruise ships where you can relax and not feel crammed in like a can of sardines.

102. How Much Do I Tip?

When you cruise, you will be automatically charged a daily per person fee for gratuities. The amount may vary by cruise line and cabin type. The higher category cabin you book, the more your gratuities will be.

You can choose to adjust the amount that is charged by going to the customer service desk on the ship. In addition, some people prefer to leave an additional tip for excellent service.

You can choose to pay these directly to your room steward or wait staff. When you choose to do this and the amount you choose to tip is a personal choice.

It is also customary to tip bartenders if you do not have a drink package (which will also include tips and gratuities). If you do not have one of these packages, tips are typically a dollar or two.

103. I’m Not Tech Savvy, Do I Need to Use the App?

While cruise lines have an app, you really do not have to use it. Some lines have you enter your passenger information through the app, however, for most lines this can be done on the cruise website as well.

Some people find the apps helpful and an addition to their cruise experience, if you are not tech savvy, there’s no need to worry about having to use it.

104. What Happens If I Get Sick Onboard or There is a Medical Emergency?

The major ocean cruise companies all have onboard medical departments. These medical bays can provide you with sea sickness and other medications (for a cost), treat minor injuries, and help facilitate a medical evacuation in the case of more serious illness or a medical emergency.

Smaller river cruise ships may not have these facilities onboard.

Final Thoughts on Commonly Asked Cruise Questions and Answers

If you’ve never cruised before, there are understandably a lot of questions that you would have. I hope that this post on common cruise questions and answers has helped to address those questions and given you an idea of what to expect.

10 questions to ask your cruise travel agent

Fran Golden, Special for USA TODAY

Here are 10 questions to ask your travel agent when planning a cruise.

Do you have any experience cruising?

You want to work with a travel agent who can offer advice based on first-hand experience. If they haven’t seen the particular ship, ask if they at least have familiarity with the cruise line. “You don’t want to deal with someone who is just regurgitating a sales pitch or a brochure,” says Stewart Chiron, CEO of The Cruise Guy .

Are there any special offers that apply to me?

Cruise lines target offers — for instance you may get 5% off the top if you’re 55 or older, or you may be able to save if you are an active or retired member of the military or even if you live in a particular state. If you are traveling with kids, your agent may be able to direct you to a line with a discounted kids’ deal.

Can I save by tweaking my travel dates?

You may have specific cruise dates in mind, but if you are flexible your agent may be able to save you a bundle by booking you a week or even a few days earlier. One cruise may be practically sold out and commanding high fares for blah cabins, while the very next cruise may be empty, and a steal in terms of price and choice of cabins.

Where will my cabin be located?

Not every cabin in the same category is created equally. One may bring the benefit of a larger than normal balcony. Another may be located in a particularly noisy area of the ship. Choosing a specific cabin may or may not be the best way to go. Your agent will guide you in this realm.

EXPLORE: The 10 most luxurious cruise ship suites

Can you do anything special for me?

The travel agent may be able to sweeten the pot with incentives, such as onboard spending credit, a bottle of champagne on arrival, a free massage, a special shore excursion or a dinner at one of the alternative restaurants. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

Have you cruised to this destination?

When your ship visits ports you will probably want to go off exploring or do an activity — whether on a shore excursion or on your own. Your travel agent should be able to offer advice on what to see and do and to make reservations, whether for tours or that fancy restaurant you just read about.

What are the dining options onboard?

This is another area where your travel agent can be valuable as your pre-cruise guide. On many ships, you need to decide upfront whether to do early- or late-seating at assigned tables or an open-seating option. Your agent can also steer you towards popular alternative restaurants that may require an advance reservation.

SEE MORE: Bite into the best cruise ship restaurants

Should I buy travel insurance?

You are investing money when you book your cruise, and a travel agent can take you through what happens if you need to cancel, including the difference between cruise line and third-party insurance policies. Make sure you understand what’s covered and what’s not. Also make sure you understand how the cruise payment plan works — with a deposit upfront.

TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY: Travel insurance basics

What happens if the price of the cruise drops?

Some cruise fares have non-refundable deposits, but most do not. A good travel agent will help you watch for price changes and help you grab a lower fare if one becomes available (within the change period allowed).

Will I be able to reach you if I run into a problem?

The big difference between a do-it-yourself approach and working with an agent is customer service. You want someone who will know your needs and be there when you need them.

BeachVacations2Go.com

5 cruise vacation questions to ask your travel agent.

Whether you’re planning a cruise along the eastern seaboard or crossing into warmer gulf waters, planning ahead is crucial. But be prepared: If you’ve never taken a cruise before, booking a cruise online can be confusing.

What cruise vacation questions should you ask? Here are five key issues your travel agent can help you resolve in order to improve your overall satisfaction and expectations with your cruise.

What land excursions are offered that you would enjoy? Check with your cruise travel agent about port destinations and shore excursions. You’ll want to get booked ahead of time so you are locked in for the outings you select. Land tours and expeditions can often get sold out during the early stages of booking a cruise.
Traveling with kids? While many cruise lines make children a primary focus, certain others do not cater to children. We specifically expect Disney cruise lines to be great for kids, with activities for all ages. But many other cruise lines are as well – such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises and several others. Check ahead with your agent to be sure!
Honeymoon getaway or other adult retreat? Alternatively, many adults prefer to cruise without children present. If this fits your itinerary, have your travel agent take a look at cruise lines that cater to adults. Various cruises focus their attention to the needs and enjoyment of adult passengers based on the activities, entertainment, and dining options available. These cruise lines include Yachts of Seabourne, Silversea Cruises, Oceania Cruise Line, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas and Cunard Cruise Line, among others.
What are your dining options? Onboard dining can vary tremendously from ship to ship. Ask your cruise agent when and if reservations are necessary, whether specific attire is required or preferred, and whether there are set seating schedules or open seating arrangements.
How does your cruise line handle beverages? Some cruise lines, like Carnival, offer drinks packages that may save you money on soft drinks, fruit and vegetable juices and wine, beer and mixed drinks. Beverage package deals can save a lot of money on a family trip and reduce the worries when you’re enjoying an afternoon or evening at the onboard bar. Your travel agent can also help you budget for a cruise regarding tips and other amenities you may not be accustomed to paying.

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10 Questions to ask your Cruise Travel Agent

For first-time cruisers and experienced cruise passengers too, travel agents can be an invaluable resource. They can help you get through the nuances and intricacies of planning your cruise vacation and even save you money during special sales/promotional events as well as other times during the year too. However, you need to know what you want before starting a conversation. Here are the 10 key questions to ask your cruise travel agent when planning a cruise:

Do you have any experience in cruising? (You want to work with an agent that has first-hand experience with being on a cruise and familiarity with all the major cruise lines)
Are there any special offers that apply to me? (Cruise lines target offers – such as senior discounts, residential discounts and military personnel discounts)
Can I save by tweaking my travel dates? (You may have specific cruise dates in mind, however, if you are flexible, your agent might save you a bundle by booking you a week earlier or later. High season usually occurs Memorial Day through Labor Day, Passover/Easter week & Christmas/New Year’s break)
Where will my cabin be located? (Not every cabin in the same category is created equally. One may bring the benefit of a larger than normal balcony, another may be located in a particularly noisy area of the ship. Choosing a specific cabin may or may not be the best way to go. Your agent will guide you in this realm)
Can you do anything for me? (Travel agents may be able to sweeten the pot with incentives such as onboard spending credits, a bottle of champagne upon arrival in your cabin or a dinner at one of the ships’ restaurants. It doesn’t hurt to ask.)
Have you cruised to this destination? (Your travel agent should be able to offer some advice on what to see and do at any destination port)
What are the dining options onboard? (On many ships, you need to decide upfront whether to do early or late seating at assigned tables or an open-seating option. You may also want to make reservations at one of the ship’s popular specialty restaurants one evening. This is another area where your cruise travel agent can be a helpful guide)
Should I buy travel insurance? (You are investing money when you book your cruise. Make sure you understand what is covered and what’s not. Also make sure you understand how the cruise payment plan works — with a deposit upfront. A travel agent can take you through what happens if you need to cancel, including the difference between cruise line and third-party insurance policies)
What happens if the price of the cruise drops? (Some cruise fares have non-refundable deposits, but most do not. A good travel agent will help you watch for price changes and help you grab a lower fare if one becomes available — within the change period allowed)
Will I be able to reach you if I run into a problem? (The big difference between a do-it-yourself approach and working with an agent is customer service. you want someone who will know your needs and be there when you need them)

Bargain Travel prides itself on customer service and serving its clients. When you are ready to book your next cruise vacation, please give us a call at 1-800-820-4567 or send us a cruise quote request form and allow our experienced staff to take care of all your travel needs.

The Most Important Questions to Ask Your Travel Agent

Even with an agent, travel is a tricky business! This list of questions to ask a travel agent can help save you a lot of time and headaches later on.

While the internet has revolutionized the way that people plan and book hotels and flights, travel agents and agencies have remained an important part of the travel industry. This is due to the added value that their skills and knowledge can bring to a vacation, especially if you’re trying to book a relatively complex trip such as a multi-lag safari in Africa or a family reunion in Disneyland. Travel agencies can also help you find some great travel deals that are only available to agents which is great if you’re a budget traveler. Remember, this is your hard-earned money and vacation time, and making a list of questions to ask a travel agent can help save you a lot of time and headaches later on.

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Do you charge a fee for your services?

It can sometimes be a little confusing to know how travel agents actually make money. Do they charge a commission or a flat fee? Or do they get a kickback from the products that they sell? This question can begin to feel like the elephant in the room and can even make you start questioning what the travel agent is offering. If this is the case, don’t be shy. Instead, simply ask if there’s a charge for their services. This will help you rest assured that you won’t get hit with an unexpected fee.

What services do you offer?

Travel agents come in all shapes and sizes, as do the products that they offer! While some offer preset packages, others let you build your own trip. Some also act as travel advisors who can help walk you through the travel planning process from start to finish. By having a good idea of what a travel agent offers, you can take advantage of their strengths and skills to help you plan your dream vacation.

Can you provide assistance while I am at a destination?

Every time you travel, you risk something going wrong. Having a travel agent can help make troubleshooting much, much easier when you’re on the road but it’s important to know from the beginning whether or not they can assist you in case of an emergency once the trip has already started. This could mean anything from helping with flight cancellations to advising a medical emergency. Don’t always assume that they will be there to help and be sure to have them tell you what they can and can’t assist with in writing before your trip begins.

How can I reach you in case of an emergency?

If they tell you that they can assist in an emergency, confirm with them what is the best way to reach them. Keep in mind that the time zone that you’ll be in may be very different than where the agent is based. It’s good to know how you can contact them outside of normal business hours and what their response time will be. This can help you plan accordingly in case anything does happen while you’re on your trip.

What travel destinations do you suggest?

Many people know that they want to go on a vacation but they aren’t entirely sure where exactly they want to go. This is one area where you can make use of the experience and skills of a travel agent. They may know of up and coming to travel destinations that you never even heard of and are perfect for your needs.

If you already have an idea of where you want to go and this is your first time working with a particular travel agent, this could also be a good way to “test” your travel agent. By asking where they recommend based on the type of trip that you desire, you can see if they are considering your needs and requirements or if they are giving a “generic” destination. This gives you at least a bit of an idea as to how they will be to work with and you can make an educated choice as to whether or not you want to proceed.

Have you traveled there before?

Whether a travel agent suggests a destination to you or you go to them with one already in mind, it’s always a good idea to ask them whether or not they have traveled there before. While some agents know a destination inside and out, others may have only looked at a few pamphlets or sat in on a few information sessions about a place. It’s nearly always better to find someone that has been to a place and understands the nuances of traveling there, particularly if it’s a place that is a bit off the beaten path.

What does your agency specialize in?

While some travel agencies try to be a jack of all trades, others specialize in particular destinations or types of travel. If you have your heart set on really delving deep into a destination or have very specific activities that you want to do, These types of agencies are often worth spending the extra money with as they are more likely to be able to ensure that you have the experience that you’re hoping for and can help troubleshoot more easily if things don’t work out as they should.

What is the best time to travel to this destination?

Once you have decided on a destination, double-check that you’re going at a “good” time of year. Is it really hot? Crowded? Hurricane season? A good travel agent should know what the climate will be like in a place and also whether or not it will be overrun with tourists and when is the best time to go. Keep in mind that this is all relative and the best time to go for someone who is looking to spend some time enjoying the sun in Florida may not be the best time for someone who is hoping to score a good deal and avoid the crowds.

Make sure to dig deep into the answer that the agent gives you and confirm why they think it’s the best time to go. This will help ensure that you’re on the same page.

Are there any ways that I can save money on the booking?

If a travel agent provides a quote that seems to be way out of your budget, don’t give up right away. Depending on how out of reach the quote is, you may want to see if there’s any way that the quote can be cheaper. They may have included things in the total cost like airport transfers, high-end hotels, activities, etc. You can also ask if there’s a cheaper period when you can travel. Going during the shoulder season rather than the high season can save you a huge amount of money so if your time is flexible, you should consider this.

You may also want to consider if there’s an alternative neighborhood that you can stay in where accommodation is cheaper. Many travel agencies will try to place people as close to the destination highlights as possible but sometimes staying a bit outside of the center offers a better experience. Think of it this way… imagine staying in an adorable hotel in a residential neighborhood in Rome. You find a charming little restaurant where you have the best pizza on the planet and spend the rest of the night drinking wine in the neighborhood piazza. Now compare this to staying in a big block hotel right near the Rome train station.

Is a package tour cheaper than creating my own vacation?

Booking a package tour can save you a lot of money… sometimes. Like everything in life, there’s a slight caveat to this and a lot of it depends on your travel style. Some packages may include things like transfer service and five-star hotels. If this isn’t something you’re particularly interested in, you may end up saving quite a bundle if you book everything separately.

If you still want to use a travel advisor or agent, try to find one that specializes in that region or country. They are likely to know the best restaurants, hotels, etc, and can likely help you save even more money while having an even better trip than you would have had as part of a package tour!

Is there a price match guarantee?

If the cost of the airfare or the hotels happens to go down after you have confirmed your trip, some travel agents may offer a price match guarantee if the bookings were confirmed within a certain time period. While it isn’t always the case, it’s worth asking just in case. Bear in mind that this may not be very easy to figure out if you have booked a package that includes a variety of tickets (flights, hotels, activities) over an extended period but it may save you a lot of money if your booking is not complex.

What is your cancellation policy?

Before you pay for anything, it’s very important to always check what the cancellation policy is. If the policy is very strict or if the deposit seems inordinately high, see if you can have this reduced. Travel plans change all the time so there must be some degree of flexibility built in.

If the itinerary includes flights, hotels, and activities, always check to see what happens if one of these ends up getting canceled. For example, if your flight is canceled, what does that mean for your hotel or activity bookings? If you’re traveling during high season and your hotel reservation ends up getting canceled unexpectedly, what other options do you have?

What are the travel documents that I need for this trip?

Depending on where you’re from and where you’re going, you may need to have a visa to travel to a destination. You may also need to fill out health forms. Your travel agent should be able to inform you exactly what you need to travel to a country so don’t forget to ask this both well before the trip starts and also once again right before your departure date.

Even though the worst of the COVID pandemic seems to be over, entry requirements to a country can still change quickly and you don’t want to be caught unaware and unable to board your flight because you don’t have the right documentation.

Are there any additional costs that I need to be aware of?

Once you have received a quote from a travel agency, always ask if there are any additional costs that you need to be aware of. Often, things like visas, inbound flight airfare, and meals won’t be included in the total price and will need to be calculated separately. This usually happens because the prices can be very different based on where someone’s departure point is. This means that you can potentially save money by trying different airports and dates, giving you the flexibility of being able to cut costs without having to rely on the travel agency to do it on your behalf.

Also, ask whether or not the tour includes admission fees to museums and historic sites as these can add up quickly depending on the location.

How can I pay for the trip?

Depending on where the travel agency is based, you may not be able to pay by credit card. If this is the case, you may have to send money through another payment platform such as Wise or Western Union . In these situations, the transaction fees are usually paid by the guest rather than the agent so make sure to calculate these into your overall trip costs as they can add a substantial amount to a high-priced vacation.

Do I need travel insurance?

Normally, the answer to this question is always yes. Some credit card companies offer insurance if you book at least a portion of the trip with your card. However, you may need to purchase supplemental insurance based on the destination and the activities that you’ll be doing. Some countries may even require you to have a certain insurance policy before they will allow you to enter the country.

Are there any security issues to be aware of?

We live in a world where the geopolitical situation between many countries can be a bit shaky and where things can change at the drop of a hat. Not many people expected Sri Lanka to become unstable so quickly nor did most people believe that there would be a war between Russia and Ukraine. If you plan on traveling to some of the more off-beat destinations, it’s prudent to ask your travel agent whether or not any security issues may worsen before you go.

Time to start packing!

We hope that this guide has given you an idea of the “right questions” to ask when booking your dream vacation through a travel agency. If you feel a little like they are a bit like interview questions, don’t worry. Booking travel is their job and they should be prepared to answer them thoroughly to ensure that they are meeting a client’s needs.

If you’re still in the beginning stages of your trip planning or are thinking of adding a few days to a trip pre or post-tour, don’t forget to check out the Let’s Roam app . It’s full of great user-generated tips and tricks that can help you find some of the best places to visit in a destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you ask the right questions , travel agents can help you save a ton of money when you travel and can help you find the perfect vacation destination.

Before you book anything with a travel agent , it is important to ask questions about the destination, their services, and their experience. This can help ensure you book a trip that’s right for you.

Travel agents can be extremely useful but’s is important to do some research on your own as well. Consider using an app like Let’s Roam to find out more about your chosen destination.

Questions to Ask Your Travel Agent Travel Team > Travel Team Blog > Questions to Ask Your Travel Agent

Questions to ask your travel agent.

If you are thinking of booking your next vacation through a travel agent, it is important to ask the right questions. Asking questions prior to selecting a travel agent to assist you can ensure you select just the right agent to plan and book your itinerary. Here is a list of important questions to ask your travel agent.

What Types of Vacations Do You Have Experience Planning?

Asking your travel agent what kind of experience they have can help you get an idea of if they will work well with your travel plans. Many travel agents have experience dealing with certain types of travel such as cruises, island travel, or specific cities, both domestic and international. An experienced travel team agent may know how to get better deals when it comes to certain travel destinations.

Ask your travel team agent for more information in planning your trip by calling 1-800-788-0829 today!

What Types of Documentation Is Necessary for My Trip?

When traveling, know what kind of documents you will need for each of your stops. Your travel agent should be able to advise you about visas are needed and what kind of identification you will need to carry while traveling. Your travel agent may be able to help you apply for and receive the visas and entry documents you will need.

How Can I Get a Hold of My Agent?

Knowing when and how you can contact your travel agent is important. If you have trouble with bookings, or have a travel emergency, you will want to know that you can get a hold of someone that will be able to help you sort through the problems quickly.

Can I Access My Vacation Itinerary Online?

These days everything can be done online, and it’s nice to have instant access to your travel itinerary while traveling. To find out exactly what type of online services your travel agent offers, ask if you can print your tickets online, or will your travel agent send your documents online, will your itinerary includes travel maps, and if there are any other services that you think you may need online access to while traveling.

What Is Your Refund and Travel Change Policy?

Things arise and cancellation or changes are sometimes necessary. Ask your vacation travel agent what their policies are. Are there charges for changes to your itinerary How much will you be refunded if you need to cancel your trip? These are important questions you will want to ask before you make a booking.

Do You Offer Any Lowest Price Guarantees?

There are many advantages to using a travel agent over booking plans yourself. Travel team agents have great connections with hotels, airlines, and car rental companies, and due to this they can offer discounts on these travel costs. Ask your travel agent if they are affiliated or connected with any major travel brands.

Can You Offer Me Specific Destination Knowledge?

Having a travel agent that has traveled to the destination you are visiting, or within the general area, can help you when it comes to things such as weather, local customs, and what activities you might enjoy.

To help you get the best vacation possible, ask a travel team agent questions; this will help you get the most from your vacation travel plans.

Ready to plan your dream vacation?

Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829

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Ask a Cruise Question

Questions to ask a travel agent?

By Hammergirl , October 24, 2019 in Ask a Cruise Question

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I do my own research for ports & excursions so never ask my TA about that

I would ask if they have cancellation penalties in addition to those the cruise line have

What perks they will offer also in addition to the cruise lines offerings

What hours do they work & can you reach them on weekends

do they watch for price drops

Do they remind you a few days before final payment (mine does) But read often that people missed the date & cruise gets cancelled

I am happy with my TA she usually responds within 30 mins depending on what I am asking

I usually know where I want to cruise & the line I want so she does not need to do too much for me

leaveitallbehind

To add to LHT28's comments, ask if they charge any fees (not just cancellation fees) not charged by the cruise lines for originating, modifying, or cancelling a booking made through them, and if they do, IMO avoid them. This is just extra income to them out of your pocket that many other agents don't charge.

I also prefer to deal with a live person who has a phone number that they answer along with email / text. Again IMO, on-line only agencies can pose difficulties with communication when questions or issues arise.

Also to clarify, perks offered to you from them as an incentive to book with them typically come out of their pocket from their commission. IMO I would be wary of any that are too good as that would suggest something else will be traded off, such as service. After all by giving you back part of their commission, they are now earning less for the same booking, and at commision rates that typically range between 10 - 15% of the commisionable portion of the rate charged (which is not the full fare you pay and is also exclusive of taxes and fees), they are not exactly buying villas in the south of France with their earnings to begin with.

To further qualify their expertise ask about their own cruise and travel experience - there are many who have never seen a cruise ship let alone cruised on one. Personal experience is IMO a significant component of expertise.

You might check out the website of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which is the primary trade association for the industry. On the site is "Find a Travel Agent" functionality; if I remember correctly, you put in your zip code and get suggestions of travel agents who specialize in cruising. - Musing About Cruising

27 minutes ago, rjgdjg said: You might check out the website of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), which is the primary trade association for the industry. On the site is "Find a Travel Agent" functionality; if I remember correctly, you put in your zip code and get suggestions of travel agents who specialize in cruising. - Musing About Cruising

37 minutes ago, leaveitallbehind said: To add to LHT28's comments, ask if they charge any fees (not just cancellation fees) not charged by the cruise lines for originating, modifying, or cancelling a booking made through them, and if they do, IMO avoid them. This is just extra income to them out of your pocket that many other agents don't charge. I also prefer to deal with a live person who has a phone number that they answer along with email / text. Again IMO, on-line only agencies can pose difficulties with communication when questions or issues arise. Also to clarify, perks offered to you from them as an incentive to book with them typically come out of their pocket from their commission. IMO I would be wary of any that are too good as that would suggest something else will be traded off, such as service. After all by giving you back part of their commission, they are now earning less for the same booking, and at commision rates that typically range between 10 - 15% of the commisionable portion of the rate charged (which is not the full fare you pay and is also exclusive of taxes and fees), they are not exactly buying villas in the south of France with their earnings to begin with. To further qualify their expertise ask about their own cruise and travel experience - there are many who have never seen a cruise ship let alone cruised on one. Personal experience is IMO a significant component of expertise.

Thank you for this. I asked an agent about the fees and low and behold, they charge a non-refundable professional services fee that starts at $50 and goes up from there. Ummmm nope.

2 hours ago, leaveitallbehind said: Also to clarify, perks offered to you from them as an incentive to book with them typically come out of their pocket from their commission. IMO I would be wary of any that are too good as that would suggest something else will be traded off, such as service. After all by giving you back part of their commission, they are now earning less for the same booking, and at commision rates that typically range between 10 - 15% of the commisionable portion of the rate charged (which is not the full fare you pay and is also exclusive of taxes and fees), they are not exactly buying villas in the south of France with their earnings to begin with.

My info is old and perhaps not completely on point but years ago I worked at QANTAS in the leisure travel, business and conventions area. We worked with tour operators which was a step up from a regular TA. They put together land/air packages that were then sold. They got what was called an "override commission." As their volume of business increased they got larger commissions from airlines, hotels, etc. I would think top TAs get something similar. I know that some specialize on particular cruise lines. I got a referral to a top Oceania TA and my incentive is the gratuities. That's a tidy sum and I'm pretty certain they're trying to generate volume. My two cents 🙂

1 hour ago, Hammergirl said: Thank you for this. I asked an agent about the fees and low and behold, they charge a non-refundable professional services fee that starts at $50 and goes up from there. Ummmm nope.

Which goes right into their pocket. TA's are paid their "professional service fees" from the cruise lines - it's called a commission. And although it may be rather nominal in scale, it is how a TA earns their income. Fees also are a source for perks to you from them as incentives - but you are in essence buying your own perk in that manner.

There is one fee that would be legitimate, and that would be if you book your airline reservations through them. Air arrangements made by TA's directly through the cruise line pay no commission and most direct air reservations through the airlines themselves pay little or no commission either. Most TA's will do this as a service to their clients to coordinate all travel together and there could be a fee to do so. But that fee is typically very nominal, maybe $10 or so per ticket.

8 minutes ago, clo said: My info is old and perhaps not completely on point but years ago I worked at QANTAS in the leisure travel, business and conventions area. We worked with tour operators which was a step up from a regular TA. They put together land/air packages that were then sold. They got what was called an "override commission." As their volume of business increased they got larger commissions from airlines, hotels, etc. I would think top TAs get something similar. I know that some specialize on particular cruise lines. I got a referral to a top Oceania TA and my incentive is the gratuities. That's a tidy sum and I'm pretty certain they're trying to generate volume. My two cents 🙂

You are correct - commissions may be scaled based on overall volume of business booked by a given agency. But the booking volume levels for each incremental % of commission increase are rather significant. Group booking incentives, etc., are also a method of scaled compensation for a TA as well.

And keep in mind that in most cases the commission is split between the booking rep and the agency sponsor - similar to real estate. But the math is pretty simple even if the rate is 15% - it would take $500,000 of commissionable booking $ to earn $75,000 for the agency before any split. That's a fair amount of cruises booked!

Before the internet we had to go to consolidators and agents who held secret access and steered business and for that got paid by the provider ( cruise, air, hotel etc. )

In this day and age where each business can have an online presence who is paying for what and what the discount is muddy.

I see it very simply the provider ( cruise, air, hotel ) in the business of selling, he never wants it to be empty, he has a profit margin and to insure filling his capacity will sacrifice a bit of it, more of it for companies that fill more of it for him. In the most extreme example you have SW who only sells direct. Every other vendor in principle could offer a cheaper price directly and cut out the commission agent, but so doing if he undercuts also cuts off one of his biggest sellers. Thus we get into the murky world of credits.

Direct offer base price and sales, but agents got to beat it in some ways. But direct can't cut the agents, and then the murkiness starts.

Simply ask how are they paid, and you learned they add a fix fee. My corporate TA gets the same from my company, convenience for $. Going direct in principle should be best, but again not if they vendor needs TAs or others to fill their capacity.

Buy local. Our travel agent (found in the phone book) does not charge anything beyond the cost directly created by the cruise. I have learned to book insurance with her and she gets a commission off of that, too.

I don't need discounts, I need professionalism! She and us have been doing our thing for many years. She moved out of town and we moved out of town. I have recommended her to others and they keep going back. She does what needs to be done and that is what I need.

Deals? Specials? Rebates? That is not being a TA, that is a marketing person. Go local, even if it costs a few dollars more. You will be supporting your local economy. Ain't that the right thing to do?

13 hours ago, JimnKaren said: Buy local. Our travel agent (found in the phone book) does not charge anything beyond the cost directly created by the cruise. I have learned to book insurance with her and she gets a commission off of that, too. I don't need discounts, I need professionalism! She and us have been doing our thing for many years. She moved out of town and we moved out of town. I have recommended her to others and they keep going back. She does what needs to be done and that is what I need. Deals? Specials? Rebates? That is not being a TA, that is a marketing person. Go local, even if it costs a few dollars more. You will be supporting your local economy. Ain't that the right thing to do? Jim

I agree, but only if they really add value, too many times I find that they really don't know much, but when they do, the cost of a little expertise is totally worth it.

Hammergirl, This is a great question. I think the list of TA questions you are asking about could be very useful to many others.

I've tried to recap the feedback so far. Hopefully folks will continue to add:

Do they they have cancellation penalties in addition to those the cruise line have?
Do they have any other fees not charged by the cruise line?
What perks do they offer? Same as or in addition to the cruise lines offerings?
What hours do they work & can you reach them on weekends? What is the response time? Are there back-ups?
Emergency contacts?
Ways to make contact – phone, email, text?
Do they watch for price drops?
Do they remind you a few days before final payment is due?
Ask about their own cruise and travel experience. Do they specialize in cruising? Do they specialize in certain cruise lines or itineraries?
Do they handle travel insurance?

RocketMan275

19 minutes ago, ldubs said: Hammergirl, This is a great question. I think the list of TA questions you are asking about could be very useful to many others. I've tried to recap the feedback so far. Hopefully folks will continue to add: Do they they have cancellation penalties in addition to those the cruise line have? Do they have any other fees not charged by the cruise line? What perks do they offer? Same as or in addition to the cruise lines offerings? What hours do they work & can you reach them on weekends? What is the response time? Are there back-ups? Emergency contacts? Ways to make contact – phone, email, text? Do they watch for price drops? Do they remind you a few days before final payment is due? Ask about their own cruise and travel experience. Do they specialize in cruising? Do they specialize in certain cruise lines or itineraries? Do they handle travel insurance?

My first question is do they offer discounts on the cruise line fares? If they don't, I move on. If they do, then we can talk about the rest of this list.

There are far too many travel agents that do offer discounts for anyone to pay full fare.

BTW, all this discussion of commission is somewhat irrelevant. We have no idea how travel agents are compensated. It may well be like auto dealers who can sell cars at below invoice and still make profits due to kick backs, etc.

6 minutes ago, RocketMan275 said: My first question is do they offer discounts on the cruise line fares? If they don't, I move on. If they do, then we can talk about the rest of this list. There are far too many travel agents that do offer discounts for anyone to pay full fare. BTW, all this discussion of commission is somewhat irrelevant. We have no idea how travel agents are compensated. It may well be like auto dealers who can sell cars at below invoice and still make profits due to kick backs, etc.

Oh boy, missed the most obvious. Haha.

Do they offer discounts on cruise line fares?
Do they they have cancellation penalties in addition to those the cruise line have?

6 minutes ago, RocketMan275 said: My first question is do they offer discounts on the cruise line fares? If they don't, I move on. If they do, then we can talk about the rest of this list.

I would not dismiss an agent because they do not discount the fare

Some people want cash rebates

I want good service

It is a personal choice

Just now, ldubs said: Do they handle travel insurance?

I would get travel insurance from a broker so you can tailor it to meet your needs

Some people just want medical others want comprehensive insurance

Check the cruise insurance forum

Just now, LHT28 said: I would get travel insurance from a broker so you can tailor it to meet your needs Some people just want medical others want comprehensive insurance Check the cruise insurance forum

Good advice. Thanks.

Anyway, I was just trying to recap all of the comments about what to ask. They are just considerations really and I suppose folks should use or not use to suit their needs.

Depends on what you are looking for. If just the best price/perks ask a bunch of them for a quote.

If you are looking for solid advice, my question would be “have you ever taken a cruise to Alaska?”.

1 hour ago, RocketMan275 said: My first question is do they offer discounts on the cruise line fares? If they don't, I move on. If they do, then we can talk about the rest of this list. There are far too many travel agents that do offer discounts for anyone to pay full fare. BTW, all this discussion of commission is somewhat irrelevant. We have no idea how travel agents are compensated. It may well be like auto dealers who can sell cars at below invoice and still make profits due to kick backs, etc.

I disagree - a TA's compensation relative to discounts or perks you receive from them is completely relevant.

"Discounting" a cruise fare is a common misconception. The vast majority of cruise lines, with only one or two exceptions, do not allow TA's to discount their fares. The fare (at a given point in time, as they do frequently change) that is offered by a cruise line is exactly that that can be offered by a TA.

If a TA says they are discounting a fare, frequently what they are doing is only showing the commissionable portion (that amount that they are paid on) and removing the non-commissionable portion of the fare. This makes the rate appear lower as a result. The non-commissionalbe portion is then added back on the top as part of the fees and taxes portion. If you ask that TA for a copy of the final "all in" invoice to include taxes and fees you will usually see that they are very similar to the cruise line (and other TA's) fares.

And I do know how they are compensated - it is by a commission that runs typically between 10-15% of the commissionable portion of the fare less fees and taxes. The compensation is not like car dealer to which you refer. There are additional incentives for group (or large block) bookings where typically 1 passenger's fare out of 8 double booked rooms will be provided at n/c, which would then allow a 1/16th fare discount provided to the rest of those passengers in that group. Higher volume agencies may be eligible for a percent or two more within that range than lower volume agents. This provides more income to them to play with/

Where they can also show a lower price more typically is with give backs (or other perks) out of their commission to you, which obviously lowers the total you would pay by that amount. But make no mistake, there is no smoke and mirrors (other than what you believe) as they are paid by commission and any benefit to you comes out of their pocket.

I also find it interesting that many people have come to expect something from an agent in return for booking their business. For an agent to offer $ to a client in the form of a discounted fare for his business is nothing more than buying that business, which IMO is unprofessional. Would you offer money out of your paycheck to a prospective customer to get their business? IMO business should be earned by service and by doing the different things already listed by others on this thread. To me that level of service is enough for me and represents more than the cruise line will do for their direct bookings.

3 hours ago, leaveitallbehind said: I disagree - a TA's compensation relative to discounts or perks you receive from them is completely relevant. "Discounting" a cruise fare is a common misconception. The vast majority of cruise lines, with only one or two exceptions, do not allow TA's to discount their fares. The fare (at a given point in time, as they do frequently change) that is offered by a cruise line is exactly that that can be offered by a TA. If a TA says they are discounting a fare, frequently what they are doing is only showing the commissionable portion (that amount that they are paid on) and removing the non-commissionable portion of the fare. This makes the rate appear lower as a result. The non-commissionalbe portion is then added back on the top as part of the fees and taxes portion. If you ask that TA for a copy of the final "all in" invoice to include taxes and fees you will usually see that they are very similar to the cruise line (and other TA's) fares. And I do know how they are compensated - it is by a commission that runs typically between 10-15% of the commissionable portion of the fare less fees and taxes. The compensation is not like car dealer to which you refer. There are additional incentives for group (or large block) bookings where typically 1 passenger's fare out of 8 double booked rooms will be provided at n/c, which would then allow a 1/16th fare discount provided to the rest of those passengers in that group. Higher volume agencies may be eligible for a percent or two more within that range than lower volume agents. This provides more income to them to play with/ Where they can also show a lower price more typically is with give backs (or other perks) out of their commission to you, which obviously lowers the total you would pay by that amount. But make no mistake, there is no smoke and mirrors (other than what you believe) as they are paid by commission and any benefit to you comes out of their pocket. I also find it interesting that many people have come to expect something from an agent in return for booking their business. For an agent to offer $ to a client in the form of a discounted fare for his business is nothing more than buying that business, which IMO is unprofessional. Would you offer money out of your paycheck to a prospective customer to get their business? IMO business should be earned by service and by doing the different things already listed by others on this thread. To me that level of service is enough for me and represents more than the cruise line will do for their direct bookings.

The TA compensation is only relevant to the TA and the cruise line. I couldn't care less.

"Discounting" a cruise fare is a common misconception. The vast majority of cruise lines, with only one or two exceptions, do not allow TA's to discount their fares."

-The TA can sell the cruise for anything the TA desires. A cruise line that doesn't allow that would face issues with restraint of trade. Or, perhaps price fixing. It's just like any retailer. The manufacturers cannot dictate final sale prices. The argument that TA are forbidden to discount is a very convenient excuse used by some TA to justify their no-discount policies.

"If you ask that TA for a copy of the final "all in" invoice to include taxes and fees you will usually see that they are very similar to the cruise line (and other TA's) fares."

- Not really. I get an "all-in" invoice on all my cruises from my TA. The bottom line, the "all-in", is 8-10% less than the "all-in" from the cruise line or most other travel agents. BTW, she breaks out the "non-commissionable" portion of the fare on her invoices.

"I also find it interesting that many people have come to expect something from an agent in return for booking their business. For an agent to offer $ to a client in the form of a discounted fare for his business is nothing more than buying that business, which IMO is unprofessional. Would you offer money out of your paycheck to a prospective customer to get their business? IMO business should be earned by service and by doing the different things already listed by others on this thread. To me that level of service is enough for me and represents more than the cruise line will do for their direct bookings."

It's no more 'unprofessional' than to expect to pay less than the MSRP on any product sold at retail. Do you believe that customers should demand to pay MSRP in order to get 'better service'? When you purchase a home, do you pay what the price listed on MLS or do you, "unprofessionally", negotiate the price?

4 hours ago, LHT28 said: I would not dismiss an agent because they do not discount the fare Some people want cash rebates I want good service It is a personal choice YMMV

A discounted fare does not mean you receive less than good service. You can have both. I truly believe the services provided by my TA are better than the services I've received elsewhere. (Including from a PCC.)

28 minutes ago, RocketMan275 said: A discounted fare does not mean you receive less than good service. You can have both. I truly believe the services provided by my TA are better than the services I've received elsewhere. (Including from a PCC.)

Not all TA's are created equal

Not all online agencies have REAL TA's

Just now, LHT28 said: Not all TA's are created equal Not all online agencies have REAL TA's

Exactly so. But, there are so many TA, that there are no reason to accept less. See my answers to the questions:

Do they offer discounts on cruise line fares? Mine offers an 8 to 10 % discount or OBC. Your choice.
Do they they have cancellation penalties in addition to those the cruise line have? Mine does not.
Do they have any other fees not charged by the cruise line? None.
What perks do they offer? Same as or in addition to the cruise lines offerings? My TA passes through any perks offered by the cruise line and adds in her discount.
What hours do they work & can you reach them on weekends? What is the response time? Are there back-ups? My TA has answered emails on the weekends. Her response time depends upon the urgency. I recently changed dining preferences on a cruise 12 months out. She responded next day which was more than adequate. I usually get a response within a couple of hours.
Emergency contacts? Telephone or email or text.
Ways to make contact – phone, email, text? Yes.
Do they watch for price drops? No, my TA does not watch for price drops. I prefer the sure thing of her discounts over a TA that 'watches for price drops' that may or may not occur. More importantly, my TA will honor any price drops as posted on the cruise line webpage. I send her an email and get a new invoice with the new and discounted price within an hour or so. And, yes, she does break out the non-commissionable fares from the total fare.
Do they remind you a few days before final payment is due? Yes, but that isn't a big deal to me. I enter the final payment date in my calendar and my computer reminds me. I find that better than relying upon someone else for something so important. I normally set that date a week or so in advance of the actual final payment date.
Ask about their own cruise and travel experience. Do they specialize in cruising? Do they specialize in certain cruise lines or itineraries? My TA books river cruise, ocean cruises, on multiple cruise lines. In fact, that's one of the best things about her. Once I had two cruises booked on two different lines. Unfortunately, I had to cancel both cruises. I decided to rebook on a different line. If I had booked direct, that would have required at least three calls. Instead, I made one call to her and withing 10 minutes I had cancelled both cruises and rebooked them on a different line. And, yes, she does take cruise herself. Often complimentary cruise because of her high volume.
Do they handle travel insurance? She does and it's very good insurance. I don't normally buy insurance through her. My credit card provides sufficient cancellation insurance and I purchase GeoBlue medical insurance on an annual basis. The GeoBlue is somewhat redundant since I also have tricare for life which cover out of country medical.

7 hours ago, RocketMan275 said: -The TA can sell the cruise for anything the TA desires. A cruise line that doesn't allow that would face issues with restraint of trade. Or, perhaps price fixing. It's just like any retailer. The manufacturers cannot dictate final sale prices. The argument that TA are forbidden to discount is a very convenient excuse used by some TA to justify their no-discount policies. It's no more 'unprofessional' than to expect to pay less than the MSRP on any product sold at retail. Do you believe that customers should demand to pay MSRP in order to get 'better service'? When you purchase a home, do you pay what the price listed on MLS or do you, "unprofessionally", negotiate the price?

Well in one of your previous responses you said that we have no idea how TA's are compensated, which I would think includes you. Perhaps you don't, but I do. And you are incorrect with your assumptions. They cannot sell the cruise for anything they desire unless they wish to do so out of their pocket.

If they are selling it for less than the published direct price from the cruise line it is coming directly from the commissions they are paid as they are responsible to the cruise line for the full published fare with the bookings they sell. The cruise line will be paid their published rate - they will not accept a discounted amount. That published fare is the cost of the cruise to the TA for the customer. They are then (at a time after the cruise is completed) paid a commission out of that amount by the cruise line. They do not add a separate margin on top as profit to them.

And to be clear - as stated before - my comment on buying business as unprofessional is with regards to giving part of ones paid compensation to a customer as an incentive to do business together.

But believe as you wish. I know factually that I am correct.

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Cruise Etiquette: How and Why to Book with a Cruise Specialist

U nlike many other travel industry segments, cruises are still largely booked by travel specialists—a significant percentage of whom specialize in cruising. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) estimates that over two thirds of cruise passengers have booked their voyages through a travel agent.

Planning a vacation at sea can be complex, and cruise specialists—like those on our Top Travel Specialists list—help cut through the marketing hype and get right to the cruise line that best suits you. Here are some benefits for booking with a cruise specialist, and some pointers from several of our Top Travel Specialists on getting the best value and experience.

How it works

Cruise specialists are bidirectional relationship experts—they’re familiar with both the cruise lines they sell and the clients to whom they’re selling to. A travel advisor's primary responsibility is to their clients, meaning they’re better positioned to offer unbiased advice.

For travelers who are new to cruising, agents are especially helpful in matching you with a cruise line and ship that best fits your personality. With dozens of options ranging from entertainment-focused mega ships to intimate river cruises , specialists can provide valuable advice drawn on years of experience working with a variety of cruise lines. They’ll know exactly how to snag a good dining table , arrange VIP shore excursions, or help you select the best cruise insurance plan.

“Once clients realize they cannot ‘VIP themselves’—that’s only something a trusted travel advisor can do for them—they recognize the value of booking with an agent," says Frosch travel advisor Christina Turrini .

At this point, you're probably wondering how much this insider knowledge will cost you. While some advisors may charge a small fee, most cruise specialists receive the bulk of their pay from commissions paid by the cruise industry—meaning there’s typically no difference in fare for passengers who book with a specialist versus booking directly with the line.

Some specialists also have access to tracking programs that alert them to discounts they can then pass on to clients, according to Turrini, which can help passengers save on the cruise fare or add value in the form of upgrades and onboard credits.

What exactly can a cruise specialist assist you with?

Cruise specialists are on hand to answer questions about shore excursions, spa and dining reservations, or other services passengers can book online prior to their cruise. Have questions about drink packages or WiFi? Specialists are there to help. If a flight gets delayed or canceled, specialists can also liaise with the cruise line and work to rebook you if there's a risk of missing your sailing.

Many cruise lines give incentives to top specialists like onboard dining or drink packages, onboard credits, or stateroom upgrades for their clients. The cherry on top? Cruise specialists will often send a nice welcome amenity—chocolates, snacks, or other gifts, to kick off their clients’ vacation on a pleasant note.

Some specialists, like Tom Baker of Cruise Center, have an encyclopedic knowledge of cruise cabins—he’ll tell clients exactly how “obstructed” that obstructed view is in their stateroom, or which ships have recently undergone refurbishments.

Top specialists will also follow up post-trip—even if the client isn’t booking another cruise right away. Baker explains this is a good way to gather intel, adding that specialists can help resolve post-travel loose ends like delayed luggage, cruise line complaints, and overall feedback. Specialists also appreciate the latest scoop to help keep their other clients up-to-date. As Mary Jean Tully of Tully Luxury Travel notes, “a restaurant might be good, but if they get a new chef that changes the game."

At the end of the day, Tully says, a trusted travel agent ultimately makes for the best cruise experience. “Why wouldn’t you want someone to be an advocate for you? It just makes sense.”

Cruise Etiquette: How and Why to Book with a Cruise Specialist

10 Questions to Ask Your Cruise Line Before You Book

Booking a cruise seems like a pretty easy transaction — one price, pay it, you're good to go. But there are some questions that you should have answered before you plunk down your money, especially if this is your first cruise. Here are 10 questions to ask before you book your cruise.

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6 Questions Travel Agents Should Ask Their Clients

Published: July 26, 2017 Categories: News | Tags: independent travel agent , travel agent tips , travel planning

Any travel agent knows that no two travelers are exactly alike. Every client that comes to them has their own personality and set of preferences that carry over into their vacation planning. So how does a travel agent become an expert at pairing their clients with their perfect trip? The trick is asking the right questions in order to get to know the unique wants and needs of each traveler. Here are six open-ended questions to ask when planning a trip for your clients:

Why do you want to go on this trip?

This is perhaps the most important and obvious question to ask your client, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked. The motivation behind a trip will vary from person to person. Some people may be after a getaway from routine. Others may need a quick trip to refresh and rejuvenate them. From family bonding to self-discovery, every client will have a different motivation for traveling, even if they’re heading to the same destination.

What type of travel experience are you wanting?

Does your client love nature and outdoor adventure? Do they want to party all night with new people? Is exploring the history and culture around them important? You want to make sure the trip you plan them fits the kind of experience they’re after. A hike through the jungle might sound like the perfect afternoon to an adventure-loving client, but not to someone wanting a relaxing beach vacation. This question will give you an idea of what destinations and activities are the best fit for each client.

What level of physical activity are they comfortable with?

Don’t think you can judge this answer based on appearance. You never know if your elderly clients might want to go parasailing or skydiving. Even the most physically fit clients may not be looking for a trip where they have to exert themselves. You might have the perfect activity in mind for a client, but find out that they aren’t able to walk up the many sets of stairs that activity requires. Asking this question shows your clients you’re planning their trip with their physical comfort in mind.

How comfortable are you with trying out new things?

From rare, exotic foods to exciting, foreign cultures, travel offers your clients many new experiences. While some may be up for a trip outside their comfort zones, others may be less thrilled by the prospect. This question not only helps you determine the best destination for your client, but also dining and daily activities.

How important is it to you to have a schedule?

Some clients go to a travel agent so they can have a detailed itinerary for their entire trip. It’s important for some to stick to a structured schedule for each day of their travels. On the other hand, some clients may not want their days jam-packed with events and instead want the freedom to change their plans when presented with unexpected opportunities. Asking this question lets you know if your client needs a full schedule of daily activities or a simple list of suggestions.

Do you have any past negative travel experiences?

Has your client had a bad experience when traveling in the past? Perhaps a sudden illness that struck overseas or a missed flight that led to an unexpected overnight layover? While it’s impossible to predict most of these unpleasant occurrences, you can do your best to help your client prepare for them in the event they do happen. Find out what your client may be wary about when traveling and work out a plan beforehand. Let them know you’ll be available to help them find a solution if their trip takes an unexpected turn.

-- Janice Gilliard

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11 Etiquette Mistakes You Might Be Making On A Cruise, According To Experts

Whether you're cruising for the first time or fiftieth, these mistakes could single you out as rude.

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New to cruising? You’re not alone—cruising continues to be one of the fastest-growing sectors of tourism, according to the 2023 State of the Cruise Industry report by Cruise Lines International Association. The report shows there is more interest than ever before among Millennials and Gen-X travelers to take their first cruise, with 73 percent of those who have never cruised indicating they will consider a cruise vacation.

Ready to get your sea legs and have your first floating hotel experience? Before you go, brush up on these common etiquette mistakes that will not only make it obvious that you’re a newbie, but could also frustrate your fellow passengers (not to mention, the crew!). Being a courteous cruiser helps everyone maximize their vacation enjoyment.

1. Ignoring Safety Briefings

Safety drills are of critical importance on cruises, so don’t miss the muster drill on embarkation day. "Many times, passengers will skip them or treat them casually," says middle Tennessee-based travel agent and cruise expert Courtney Johnston, owner at Oh, Let’s Go Travel Agency . "Conducting drills familiarizes everyone with safety procedures, emergency exits, and evacuation routes in the event of an emergency."

2. Being Late for Shore Excursions

Think you can just mosey off the ship and to a shore excursion on your own schedule? Think again: Arriving late for scheduled excursions or activities can causing delays for the entire group—or cause you to get left behind, and likely without a refund for the missed activity.

"Respect the time of your fellow travelers and the crew by arriving on time for all activities," says Tampa-based Tammy Levent , founder of Elite Travel. "If you know you'll be late or need to cancel, please let the excursion desk know as early as possible."

3. Not Respecting Dress Codes

While many cruise lines have relaxed their dress codes in recent years, there are still occasions that call for more formal attire, such as elegant dinners or themed nights. Not adhering to these can not only detract from the ambiance, says Johnston, but also make fellow passengers feel uncomfortable. In some cases, you may even be denied entry into a restaurant or lounge.

4. Not Respecting Crew Members

Treating crew members poorly or not acknowledging their hard work is no way to behave on a cruise—the crew work long shifts seven days a week during their lengthy contracts, often going six months without seeing their own families. Most of them truly love working in hospitality and strive to make your vacation special.

"Show gratitude and respect to the crew members," says Levent. "A simple thank you or a friendly smile can go a long way."

5. Reserving Lounge Chairs

Planning to wake up early and claim lounge chairs in a prime location on the pool deck with your towels and personal belongings—and then head off to the fitness center, breakfast and to a cupcake decorating demonstration before making your way back to actually use them? This is a common problem that can cause unnecessary tension among passengers, says Johnston. It's important to respect shared spaces and only reserve chairs when they will be actively utilized.

6. Neglecting Personal Hygiene

Because ships are a confined space, germs can spread quickly—that’s why you’ll see hand washing stations in the buffet and hand sanitizer stations at every restaurant entrance. "Not adhering to proper hygiene practices can affect the health and comfort of others," says Levent. "Wash your hands frequently, especially before meals and after using the restroom."

7. Disrespecting Cultural Norms

When visiting ports of call, be mindful of local customs and etiquette. "Respecting cultural norms is important for promoting cultural harmony, avoiding offense or misunderstandings, and fostering positive interactions with local communities during port visits," explains Johnston.

For instance, one item that often surprises passengers is that a handful of Caribbean islands ban visitors from wearing camouflage print, because it’s reserved for their military (you can wear these items on the ship, but not ashore).

8. Overloading Elevators

It's normal to be eager to get to your next fun activity on the ship, but crowding elevators is unpleasant for everyone. Levent says to be patient and considerate when using elevators and to prioritize allowing space for people with disabilities, the elderly, and families with strollers. Newer ships, like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas , have destination-style elevators to help prevent overcrowding and long wait times.

9. Not Tipping Appropriately

Most cruise lines have tipping guidelines, and it is important to follow them or tip appropriately for exceptional service. "It reflects a gesture of gratitude and fosters positive relationships between guests and service providers," says Johnston.

To help mitigate the issue of under-tipping, some cruise lines automatically add a fixed daily gratuity to your final bill, so double check if that’s the case (though you are, of course, still free to tip above and beyond that amount, which is why bringing cash is one of the 12 things you should always bring on a cruise ship ).

10. Be Discreet in Shared Spaces

Of course you want to snap the perfect photos to share on social media or make a scrapbook with after your vacation, but it’s important to be discreet when using your camera in shared spaces (such as the pool, dining rooms, or gyms) when others are present.

"Aim to capture your memories without disrupting others' experiences or invading their personal space," says Levent, who suggests opting for less crowded times or locations for your photo sessions.

11. Being Loud and Disruptive

Sure you’re on vacation, and want to let loose a bit. But being excessively loud in cabins, hallways, or public areas, and disrupting the peace for others isn’t cool. Levent says to be mindful of your noise levels, especially during late hours. Use earphones for music and movies and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.

By adhering to these 11 tips, you'll go a long way toward enhancing your own cruising experience and contributing to a pleasant and harmonious environment for all passengers and crew.

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Travel Agent Questions to Ask Clients

Written by: Guest on March 02, 2016

When you begin your journey to become a travel agent there is a lot to learn. This profession is fun and exciting, and you will get to meet and work with a lot of wonderful people. Each of your clients will be unique, so there are some questions that you should ask them to better understand what they are looking for on their vacation.

In order to plan the best vacation for your client, you need to learn as much as you can about them and the other members they are traveling with. Let’s take a look at some travel agent questions to ask clients, and remember to learn as much as you can about their lifestyle and budget so that you can meet their needs and exceed their expectations.

Questions a Travel Agent Should Ask

General Questions

Where are you planning on traveling? When?
What kind of research have you done?
How old will the passengers be (for senior discounts)?
Does anyone have military service (for military discounts)?
What is your goal for this vacation?

Questions about Past Travel Likes and Dislikes

How are you used to traveling?
What are some of your past vacation likes and dislikes?
What is the best travel experience you’ve ever had? Why?
Tell me about your last three vacations. How did you get there and where did you stay?
How do you want this vacation to be different from others you have been on?

Questions about Experience Expectations

What do you like about your chosen destination?
What types of family vacation activities are important to you?
What have you been dreaming of doing on this vacation?
Are you looking for a more intimate experience or would you prefer more action and nightlife?
Would it be important to you to stay at a resort that has activities and nightlife after 11PM?
What kind of attire would you like to wear for evening wear?

Questions about Dining

Is room service important to you?
What are your favorite foods?
Do you enjoy eating island cuisine (or trying local cultural foods)?
Do you like the idea of being able to eat and drink as much as you want for one price?
When you’re at home, what restaurants do you frequent when dining out?
Do you or someone in your party have food allergies or special diets?

Questions about Water Activities (if applicable)

What type of water activities do you like?
Would you consider yourself a beach person or a pool person?
Is beach service important to you?
Are long walks on the beach important to you?
Are you certified to scuba dive? Would you like to get certified while on vacation?

Upselling Questions

Are you interested in travel insurance ?
Would you like me to arrange transfers for you and your guests to and from the airport?
Can I put together a list of excursions for you to review? I’d love to help arrange one for your trip.

While we know that this is a long list of questions travel agents should ask clients, the more you learn, the better experience you can plan. Remember that it’s not enough to just ask questions, but you also need to listen to the answers entirely and modify your follow up questions based on the conversation.

Want to learn more about becoming a travel agent ? Fill out the form on the right side of the screen of call us directly at 1-888-611-1220 to receive our free Travel Agent Information Guide .

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Moscow and Kyiv exchange dozens of prisoners

The two sides have returned 90 prisoners each in a deal brokered by the United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for two senior figures following alleged attacks on civilian targets. Ask our experts a question about the war below.

Tuesday 25 June 2024 21:58, UK

Russia and Ukraine each return 90 prisoners of war
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Big picture : What you need to know this week

Ask a question or make a comment

That brings an end to our live updates on the Ukraine war for this evening.

We'll bring you any major updates overnight. In the meantime, you can scroll through the blog below to catch up on the day's developments.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a direct message to the two Russian top generals who are the subject of fresh arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court.

The court has accused Sergei Shoigu and General Valery Gerasimov of war crimes and the crime against humanity of inhumane acts.

In his nightly video address, Mr Zelenskyy said: "Shoigu, Gerasimov – your path to The Hague is open."

The Ukrainian president also said the official start of Ukraine's ascension into the EU today was a "historic result", adding: "We will definitely implement everything necessary to advance through each chapter of our relations with the EU and to create a treaty – a treaty of Ukraine's accession."

US defence secretary Lloyd Austin and Russian defence minister Andrei Belousov spoke over the phone today, in what marked the first call between Mr Austin and his Russian counterpart since March 2023.

The two men discussed the importance of open lines of communication, the Pentagon said.

Spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder said Mr Austin had initiated the conversation.

Mr Belousov was appointed to the role of defence minister last month after the shock dismissal of longtime minister Sergei Shoigu by Vladimir Putin.

Some of the returned Ukrainian soldiers were prisoners taken from the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, the head of the Ukrainian president's office has said.

Andriy Yermak said of the 90 fighters returned by Russia today, 52 were from a large group of Ukrainians captured while trying to defend the Azovstal steelworks in southern Ukraine while others had been held as prisoners after the capture of Chernobyl.

Both sites were seized by Russia early in the war.

Mr Yermak described the latest prisoner swap as an "important exchange".

"Thanks to our team for their work. Grateful to the UAE for facilitating the exchange. We will return everyone," he said.

Russia and Ukraine have each returned 90 prisoners of war in the latest swap between the two countries, the Russian defence ministry has said.

In a statement on Telegram, the ministry said Russian prisoners were returned with the United Arab Emirates acting as an intermediary.

The prisoners were being flown to Moscow for medical checks, it added.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed in a post to social media that 90 Ukrainian soldiers were returned by Russia.

"We remember all our people in Russian captivity. We continue our work for the release of everyone. We seek the truth about everyone who may be held by the enemy," he said, as he thanked the Ukrainian exchange team.

By Ian King , business presenter

The EU has launched its 14th package of sanctions against Russia - this time targeting Vladimir Putin's liquefied natural gas exports (LNG) for the first time.

The measure is the latest attempt by the bloc to deny Mr Putin's regime of money as his war on Ukraine drags into its 29th month.

The sanctions, which will kick in after a nine-month transition period, fall short of an outright ban on Russian LNG shipments.

This partly reflects the fact that EU members are themselves still allowed to buy LNG from Moscow - even though the bloc has set a target of phasing out Russian fossil fuels by 2027.

The EU followed the lead of the United States and the UK in banning Russian oil imports, with one or two limited exceptions, in 2022 after Russia attacked Ukraine.

What latest sanctions do

The key measure in the package, signed off late last week in the face of opposition from Germany and Hungary, is a ban on trans-shipments off EU ports of Russian LNG - essentially preventing the commodity from being sold to third countries via EU ports.

Part of the package also targets specific vessels - including an initial 27 oil tankers - that are used to get around the price cap slapped on Russian oil by the G7 countries.

It will also, in time, target vessels caught, for example, carrying ammunition from North Korea to Russia or transporting grain stolen from Ukraine by Moscow.

The latest package of sanctions also bans new investments and services to complete LNG projects under construction in Russia.

That should, in theory, stymie Russia's attempts to build out its LNG exports and grow market share.

Other elements include bans on EU businesses from using the Bank of Russia's system for transfer of financial messages (SPFS) system - the Bank of Russia's version of the West's Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) inter-bank messaging system.

Under this measure, the European Council will be allowed to draw up a list of non-Russian third-country banks connected to the system and ban them from doing business with EU operators.

Targeting rich Russians and pop stars

There are also restrictions on access to Russian media, as well as new technological and export restrictions and a fresh blacklist of a further 116 people deemed to be supporting the war, including the singer Yaroslav Dronov, who performs under the name Shaman and whose song 'I'm Russian' was reportedly played daily to Alexei Navalny, the late democracy campaigner, in his Arctic Circle prison cell.

Also targeted was another popular Russian singer, Polina Gagarina, who performed before Putin at an event in Crimea following the invasion of Ukraine.

The EU has also introduced a number of bans, targeting wealthy Russians, on private jet travel to EU resorts.

Announcing the measures, the European Commission said: "As the Russian aggression against Ukraine continues, the EU remains determined to keep acting to further reduce Russia's sources of revenue and capacity to wage war.

"Today's measures send a clear and strong signal of EU unity and of our support to Ukraine and its people."

Will watered-down sanctions have any impact?

The big question is whether these latest sanctions will actually have much impact - particularly in view of the fact that they were watered down.

Germany, for example, reportedly prevented a widening of measures that would have forced EU companies to guarantee that their customers would not be able to sell prohibited goods to Russia.

And Hungary - the value of whose Russian LNG imports is up 59% year on year - is said to have demanded assurances that no current or future measures will impact the Paks II nuclear power plant which is being built by the state-owned Russian power company Rosatom 63 miles to the south-west of Budapest.

The chances are that the sanctions will only go so far in hurting Russia.

Still a major supplier

According to Kpler, the data provider, Russia is the second-biggest supplier of LNG to the EU after the United States. It says that, so far this year, the US has met 41% of the EU's LNG needs and Russia 21%.

And in May this year, for the first time since just after the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, imports of Russian LNG were greater than those of American LNG.

Nor do these sanctions cover imports of Russian gas transported to the EU through pipelines via Turkey and Ukraine itself.

Much of this ends up in central European countries such as Austria, which in the first five months of this year had 80% of its gas needs met by Russia, but also countries such as Italy and Belgium.

Moreover, while the bans on trans-shipments will make it harder for Russian LNG exports to reach their intended destination, they are unlikely to stop them altogether.

They will just force Russia to use longer shipping routes - while a lot of the LNG previously being exported in this way is now, ironically, likely to be sold to customers in Europe itself.

It is always encouraging to see the EU seeking to deprive Putin's war machine of money.

But these sanctions could have gone a lot further. That they did not highlights the extent to which the EU still relies on Russian gas.

Donald Trump has been presented with a plan to end the war in Ukraine if he is elected to the White House in November.

The Reuters news agency reports that two key advisers for the presumptive Republican nominee have put forward the plan, which involves telling Kyiv it will only get more US military aid if it enters peace talks.

At the same time, the US would warn Moscow that refusal to negotiate would result in increased support from Washington for Ukraine, according to retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg.

Lt Kellogg and Fred Fleitzl, who were both chiefs of staff in Trump's National Security Council while he was president and who came up with the plan, said a ceasefire would be based on prevailing battle lines during peace talks.

Mr Fleitzl said Trump showed a positive attitude towards the plan.

"I'm not claiming he agreed with it or agreed with every word of it, but we were pleased to get the feedback we did," he said.

The Kremlin has said any peace plan from a future Trump administration would need to reflect the battlefield "reality" - but that Vladimir Putin was open to talks.

"The value of any plan lies in the nuances and in taking into account the real state of affairs on the ground," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

From the Ukrainian side, presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak said freezing the war at prevailing front lines would be "strange".

"Ukraine has an absolutely clear understanding and it is spelled out in the peace formula proposed by President Zelenskyy, it is clearly stated there - peace can only be fair and peace can only be based on international law," he said.

Four people have injured in a Russian attack on Kharkiv in northeast Ukraine, an official has said.

Regional governor Oleg Synegubov said Russia hit the village of Bobrivka with "at least four" guided aerial bombs this afternoon.

Two women, aged 87 and 40, and two men aged 67 and 56 were injured, he said.

The women were treated on the spot while the two men were hospitalised for treatment.

Ukrainian police say they have detained a man involved in the alleged torture of a former soldier in Ukraine's fourth-largest city of Dnipro.

The National Police service said on Telegram that Dmytro Yavornytskyi was targeted last Thursday by a group of men in balaclavas and camouflage who injured and put handcuffs on him.

The men have since been identified and one has been detained today, the service said.

Dnipro's regional prosecutor's office has begun criminal proceedings alleging illegal deprivation of liberty and torture.

More now from Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov, who has warned of "tragic and fatal" consequences if the West underestimates Russia's determination.

Mr Ryabkov said Moscow was ready to stand up for itself "and ensure its own interests in any situation".

"I don't even want to assume that this underestimation could become tragic and fatal," he said, adding the West was confronting a major nuclear power.

"There are different ways to respond to this - rhetorical and practical. We have the resources to convey signals to the West in the field of nuclear deterrence, even in the absence of our opponents' willingness to conduct a sober dialogue. But there is a danger, it cannot be underestimated, that their side may make a mistake. We will try not to," Mr Ryabkov said at a conference in Moscow.

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