Do I need a passport?
Most travel to any location outside the U.S. as of January 1, 2007, requires a valid U.S. passport. For this itinerary United States citizens are required to have a U.S. Passport. For your convenience, here is a link to the official U.S. Department of State website where you can obtain information about obtaining or renewing passports: http://travel.state.gov.
Can I extend my cruise vacation?
Your package includes 2 nights at the Holiday Inn Potts Point or similar before your cruise. We also have a 14 day pre cruise in New Zealand that can be added on at the same time you book your package. Please call for details.
Is motion discomfort a problem?
Today's modern cruise ships are quite large and contain hi-tech stabilizing devices and advance weather notification processes. In the unlikely event you experience motion discomfort, there are a number of over-the-counter solutions to ease your concerns. These include Bonine, Mecklizine, Dramamine, Transderm Scope Patches, and Seabands. Please consult with your physician or pharmacists before taking any medication.
Can we stay in touch with the outside?
Quite easily. Most ships have a daily newsletter with news, headlines, and selected stock quotes and sports scores. Staterooms on all of today's modern cruise ships are equipped with satellite televisions and in some cases in-cabin internet connections. While most ships now have telephones in passenger cabins, you can also call someone on shore through the ship's radio operator while at sea. And, you can make phone calls from most ports. In addition, many ships have fax capabilities and newer ships offer Internet access and e-mail capabilities to passengers.
Will I need an electrical converter?
The current on board is 110 volts AC. However, some high-voltage hair dryers, electric rollers and electric razors may require a converter.
Is a stateroom with a balcony really worth it?
There is nothing like having a balcony on a cruise. Private balconies are a great way to escape the crowds. You can enjoy the same view from your own deck chair while having a cup of coffee - but without the crowds.
Balcony cabins seem bigger as well. With a balcony, it's almost as though you have floor to ceiling window to the most magnificent views in the world. If you're already spending the money and taking time to go to on a cruise, treat yourself to a balcony as well. So the answer is "yes." A balcony stateroom is worth it.
How do I pay for onboard expenses?
For your convenience, all shipboard expenses are charged to Royal Caribbean's special onboard credit program. Sign up on the first day of your cruise, by establishing your method of payment with Visa®, MasterCard®, American Express®, Discover®, Diners Club®, travelers checks or cash. If you choose to settle your account with cash, a deposit will be required in advance. You may also use your debit card; however, please be advised that Royal Caribbean obtains pre-authorization which some banks may hold for up to 30 days.
What about currency?
You may cash traveler's checks at the Reception Desk. Currency exchange, at prevailing rates, is available on some cruises. Traveler's checks and most major credit cards are accepted in the ports we visit. Proper ID is required when cashing traveler's checks. We recommend you carry a small amount of local currency when visiting foreign ports, although credit cards are commonly accepted in shops and restaurants.
How many suitcases can I bring?
Each person is allowed up to two pieces of personal luggage on board, with each piece weighing a maximum of 50 pounds. However, if passengers are traveling by air, they need to check with the airline for specific restrictions.
What time is dinner?
What time would you like it to be? Royal Caribbean gives you a choice, early dining at 6:00 p.m. or late dining at 8:30 p.m. You may also choose "My Time Dining". Please note that "My Time Dining" choice requires you to pre pay your gratuities at final payment of your cruise. There are four specialty restaurants on board as well as casual dining and cafes. There is 24 hour room service too. Special meals are available including low-calorie, vegetarian, no MSG, low/no sodium and low/no cholesterol meals, as well as sugar-free and fat-free desserts. All of Royal Caribbean's restaurants are non-smoking. Most specialty restaurants require a per person cover charge or offer a` la carte pricing. Reservations are recommended and can be made on board.
Will I have access to the internet?
? In selected areas on the ship. Our WI -FI service provides internet access 24 hours a day through your own internet Service Provider. This service is available at a nominal charge.
What about accessible cruising?
Royal Caribbean believes that the fun and excitement of cruising should be able to be enjoyed by everyone. In order to assist you with any special requirements you may have, Royal Caribbean has a seasoned group of cruise professionals who are specifically trained to meet your needs. The Access Desk Coordinator will discuss with you your needs and expectations for your cruising experience. In order to make your cruise experience as enjoyable as possible and so that we can try to meet your specific needs, please discuss your specific needs at the time of booking, so your travel agent can contact the Access Desk Coordinator as soon as possible.
Is there a doctor on board?
A physician and nurse are on each ship to provide medical care and services at customary charges. Commonly used medications are kept on board and may be prescribed by the ship's doctor.
What about onboard gratuities?
Gratuities are additional. A charge of $11.65 per person per day is the suggested guideline. All onboard gratuities can be added to your SeaPass account for your convenience. A 15% gratuity will be automatically added to your bar bill or wine check.
Can I prepay my onboard gratuities?
You can request that onboard gratuities be added to your cruise reservation at the time of booking. If you have not made final payment this will be included in your final payment amount or if final payment has already been made we will require full payment at the time it is added. Onboard gratuities can be added at anytime up to 24 hours prior to sailing.
Why would I prepay my gratuities?
The convenience of pre-paying the service charges allows you to plan your budget prior to your cruise giving you additional freedom while on board.
If I cancel my cruise are the prepaid gratuities refundable?
Yes! Prepaid gratuities are 100% refundable.
If there is a service issue can the service charges be adjusted on board?
Guest satisfaction is the highest priority at Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. They have structured a guest satisfaction program designed to handle any concerns about service or on-board product quickly and efficiently. However, in the event a service issue should arise during your cruise please let their on-board reception desk staff know right away, so that they can address these in a timely manner. It is their goal to reach a satisfactory solution to any issue when it happens and make sure guests can focus on enjoying their cruise. Should your concerns not be met with satisfaction you can adjust the charges.
What can't I bring onboard?
Passenger is not allowed to bring on board the vessel any intoxicating liquors, or beverages, firearms, weapons of any kind, ammunition, explosive substances or any goods of a dangerous nature, nor animals of any kind, except service or guide animals, provided the passenger notifies Carrier prior to the cruise of his intention to bring such animal and agrees to take sole responsibility for any expense, damage, injuries or losses associated with or caused by such animal.
What is the Fuel Supplement?
Royal Caribbean reserves the right to pass through any third party imposed fuel or other surcharges without prior notice. The guest will remain liable for any applicable taxes, fees or surcharges that may be assessed by any governmental or quasi-governmental agencies.
