Money Matters

Isn't cruising expensive?
That's entirely up to you. Whether you're buying a toaster oven or a cruise, it's all a matter of how much you want to spend and what's important to you. Price-wise, you can splurge on a deluxe, five-star luxury cruise or cut some corners with a bargain, weekend getaway. Whatever sailing you decide to take, we at offer the best bargains in the industry.

What's included in the cost of my cruise?
Aha! Here lies the value of cruising. Your accommodations, your meals, your entertainment, port charges, and most onboard activities are all included. And keep in mind the element of transportation. Unlike a hotel or a resort, your ship is moving, taking you from place to place. Unless you enjoy the vacation fun of packing and unpacking, checking-in and checking-out, you'll never miss that tedium. For a number of sailings, will include some extras like a bottle of champagne, a basket of fruits and chocolates or even $100 shipboard credit.

What's not included?
It varies somewhat by cruise line but there are some generalities we'll mention here. Typically, those items and services that are of a personal nature cost extra. Most alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, beauty salon services, shore excursions, shipboard gift and sundries purchases, Internet usage, long distance phone calls, tips, casino gaming, and your transportation to and from your cruise are extra cost. Knowing what's included and what's not included allows you to budget your vacation spending more closely...yet another advantage of a cruise vacation.

Cruising Pros and Cons

OK. So what's so great about cruising?
In a word: VALUE. When pricing a cruise vacation versus a land-based holiday, consider that transportation, hotel, meals, entertainment, and most activities are included. Even an all-inclusive land resort package can't top that (it doesn't go anywhere).

I don't have a thing to wear. How can I go on a cruise?
Step away from the keyboard and walk to your closet. Open the doors. If your closet has clothes in it you're ready to cruise. The days of mandatory black-tie dinners aboard most cruise ships are over.

Isn't my time at each port limited?
Of course it is. But don't forget that your time in port is just that: your time. There's no need to spend time waiting for luggage at the airport baggage carousel, finding a taxi to your hotel, waiting in line to check-in, unpacking your bags, then go searching for a place to eat before you begin to relax. On a cruise, you arrive relaxed, step off the ship (which is almost always within walking distance of town or a short shuttle away - unlike the airport), tour the sights, and step back onboard at the end of the day. If you thoroughly enjoyed your visit, make a mental note to return someday for a longer stay. If you weren't impressed, so what? There's another port adventure tomorrow. No one is claiming that cruising is the only way to vacation; all around it's just the best.

So, what are the disadvantages of a cruise vacation?
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When to Cruise When's the best time to go on a cruise?
That depends on where you want to go. If you're looking for a January cruise to Alaska look under the category "impossible." There aren't any. The cruise season for Alaska extends from late spring through late summer. Europe is popular from spring into the fall, and the Caribbean is popular all year long. Elsewhere, there are variable seasons. (South America, the South Pacific, Africa, and Australia/New Zealand are most popular during our winter season, and Asia and the Far East tend towards the fall and spring.)

When are the deals?
In general, the best-value months are usually from September to Thanksgiving when school's back in session and everyone's saving up vacation days (and money) for the holidays. There're often some savings to be had in early January (the post-holiday lull). For Alaska, the early and late season months of May, early June, and September offer the biggest savings. offers these deals throughout the year. Look into our 'Hot Weekly Deals'.

Hurricanes! How can I avoid them?
You don't have to - the cruise lines will. Ships themselves are equipped like weather stations these days and are in constant touch with storm tracking experts. Technically, however, the hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 31st though most storms occur from late August through October. Don't avoid the Caribbean for this reason alone. First, it's extremely unlikely a hurricane will have any serious affect on your cruise vacation. Second, September and October are generally "off season" for travel and you can get some terrific cruise savings.

Making the Cruise Booking

How early should I book?
Book as soon as your plans allow. Cruise lines generally finalize their ship itineraries from 12 to 18 months before sailing date and the sooner you book, the more likely can confirm your first choice. A number of cruise lines offer early booking discounts to encourage early bookings. And once full payment has been received, your cruise price is guaranteed against any price increases that may occur. 'Hot Weekly Deals' throughout the year. It's worth looking for them.

If I wait to book, won't I get a better "last-minute deal."?
Of course you might. Or you may not. As every shopper knows, there are "clearance sales" for cars, TVs, clothes - and yes, cruises. The upside is you can save money. The downside is your choices are limited. will always be on top of the last-minute deals that may be out there so if your plans are flexible we might be able to save you some serious money.

Aren't there all sorts of special rates available?
You bet there are - lots of them (if you can spell your last name you probably qualify for some sort of discount). will search for the best discounts possible, and if you qualify, the savings are all yours. Discounts are often available for early bookings, groups, honeymooners, families, seniors, frequent cruisers, and military personnel. Of course, these discounts aren't available on all cruise lines, on all ships, or at all times - even more reason to contact us.

What's this I hear about "theme cruises?"
A number of cruise lines add an interesting twist to specific cruises by offering certain onboard "themes." Sports, Jazz, History, Chocolate, Broadway, Gardening, Cooking, Fitness, and Hollywood... all are frequent themes among the various lines. Onboard events such as lecturers, demonstrations, movies, videos, performances, book signings, competitions, and seminars are typical features on theme cruises. Our specialists at stay current with the information about all theme cruises.

Do I have to make my own travel arrangements to get to the ship?
No. All major cruise lines offer air programs that provide you with air transportation from a variety of North American gateway cities to the ship, and return. These programs are optional and extra cost, but they certainly add convenience to your cruise booking. Most of these programs also include complimentary airport/pier transfers. For a little extra, you can even specify your choice of airline (gotta get those miles!). Should you want to make independent airline arrangements, just be sure to provide us with your flight schedule so that we can advise the cruise line of your airline arrival and departure times. Also, let us know if you'd like to purchase airport/pier transfers.

When do I get my airline tickets?
If you decide to take advantage of the cruise line's air arrangement package, your airline tickets will arrive with your final cruise documents, generally 2-3 weeks before your cruise.

Can I buy pre- or post-cruise hotel packages?
Yes. has the complete list of all hotels with detailed information of amenities and features. Most cruise lines offer one or two-night (or more) hotel packages, usually in the port of cruise embarkation or debarkation. These packages allow you to see the sights of those cities and stretch your cruise vacation experience. Most cruise lines also offer one-night pre-cruise hotel packages in the port of embarkation. It's the best way to allow an extra cushion of time before your cruise departure date.

How do I pay for my cruise?
Most travelers prefer to pay by credit card and all major credit cards are accepted by. As an alternate, we will accept deposit and final payments by check.

What if I want to cancel my cruise? Do I have to pay a cancellation fee?
That depends on two things: When you want to cancel and if you purchased trip cancellation insurance. If you've missed your cruise departure due to inclement weather and you've purchased trip cancellation insurance, generally you will receive either a full refund or credit towards future cruise travel. If you wake up on the day of your cruise and just decide not to travel you will likely not receive a full (or even partial) refund. Check with the experts at Travel by Hyatt for each cruise line's cancellation policies.

Documentation

What kind of documents is there?
First, there are travel documents, which you need to identify yourself as citizen of a specific country. The most common is the passport. If you don't already have one, you can get the application from your local post office. You will need your birth certificate. If you need to order a new birth certificate, check this link: http://www.vitalchek.com Second, you might need a visa, allowing you to enter a specific country. And third, you'll need cruise documents allowing you to board the ship. All of them are important and all are difficult to replace if lost or stolen. You should always have a safe place to store them at home and also during your travel. It's always a good idea to make photocopies of all your documents before you leave for the cruise and carry them with you - don't pack them in your checked luggage.

Do I need to bring special travel documents with me?
Most likely, yes. Almost every cruise involves at least one stop in a foreign country (part of the reason you're traveling, right?). On return, you'll need to prove your citizenship to immigration authorities. The required documentation varies with the citizenship you are holding.

I am an American Citizen. What official travel documents do I need to bring?
For most out of the country destinations you will need a valid passport, which you can apply for at your local post office or passport office. It takes up to 3 weeks to process your request, so don't make it a last minute thing. If you lose your travel documents (Passport, Alien Registration Card, etc.) you've got to have them replaced prior to travel. Call the appropriate office immediately so that they can be replaced as soon as possible. Expect to pay some substantial fees for this service. If ports on your cruise are located in Mexico, Canada or the Caribbean, you can also travel with your original birth certificate or a notarized copy and (in addition) an official picture ID such as a driver's license. However, encourages everybody to obtain a passport before traveling anywhere out of the country, because it has proven to be safest, most authoritative travel document to have. After you've traveled out of the country once, no doubt you'll be traveling again and again. Since most foreign countries require a passport anyway, they're handy documents to have. Passports are valid for 10 years and are easy to renew.

What is a visa and do I need to get one, too?
A visa is an endorsement in the passport showing that the person has been granted official entry into or passage through a country. Not all countries require this and it is dependent on the citizenship you are carrying whether you need one or not. Depending on your cruise itinerary, visas may be required in certain ports of call. We at can give you the information on any visa you might need. Make sure that you follow the instructions because you may not be allowed to board the ship without the proper papers. Our agents have inquired about the visa requirements for every country to make sure you'll receive the latest and correct information.

What if I'm not a US citizen?
If you're residing in the United States but you're not a citizen, be sure you bring your Alien Registration Card as well as a valid passport with any required visas and photo IDs. You might need additional visas to your trip. Please check with your consulate or the consulates of the countries you are traveling to. You may not be allowed to board the ship without the proper documents.

What special documentation is required if I'm traveling with children?
If you are a single parent traveling with children, you should bring a notarized statement from the other parent allowing you to travel outside of the country with the child. If the other parent is deceased, you will need to bring a copy of the death certificate. With most cruise lines, children traveling with neither parent cannot travel unless in possession of a notarized letter of consent signed by both parents or legal guardian. Additionally, for children 16 or over, you'll need to be sure they're in possession of their own passport with necessary visas. I'm going on an Alaska cruise.

Why do I need to bring travel documents?
Look at that itinerary again. Chances are, you're either leaving from, stopping in, or ending up in a location outside of the United States. Even for a flight within United States you need to carry a picture ID.

What cruise documents will I receive?
The day your final cruise documents arrive in the mail is always an event. There's something about having those docs in your hand that hikes the anticipation factor a whole bunch of notches. (Groups are known to host pre-cruise "document parties" when the newly-arrived documents are passed out by the group leader.) Cruise lines' documentation vary somewhat but most include a passage ticket, a shore excursion guide booklet, a question and answer booklet, tags for your checked and carry-on bags, and additional documents depending on pre- or post-cruise airport transfers or hotel packages you may have purchased. Cruise documents are generally mailed to you by the cruise line about 21 days prior to your cruise departure date.

What's this I hear about Customs Taxes?
Every item imported into the United States has to be paid an import tax. For instance you traveling with an expensive foreign camera need to proof that this was paid and if you can't, you have to pay this tax at custom. Any good sold within US this tax was already paid. So to avoid having to pay customs tax on foreign-made items purchased in the U.S. but taken out of the country, do one of three things. Either bring the original receipt for that item with you on your cruise so you can prove you did not purchase it on this trip, pre-register the item with U.S. Customs before your departure, or leave the item at home. Remember, this applies only to foreign-made items such as cameras, expensive jewelry, video cameras, radios and other electronic equipment - and especially if it is new or appears new. Customs will issue a certificate of ownership so you can avoid duty and taxes upon your return home. For all more details, write to the Department of the Treasury, U.S. Customs Service, Washington, D.C. 20229 for a copy of "Know Before You Go." Or, check their website at www.customs.ustreas.gov . Canadian residents can write to the Customs Office at 333 Donsmuir Street, Vancouver, B.C. V6B 5R4 for a copy of "I Declare" or you may contact your local Customs Office. Medical, Health, and Pregnancy Concerns

What inoculations will I need?
It depends on where you're going. For most Caribbean, North American, and European destinations there are few, if any, inoculation requirements. But a number of international destinations require proof of certain inoculations. Passengers on international cruises are advised to check with the Center of Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) or your doctor regarding inoculation requirements in the ports they will be visiting. Some exotic ports strictly enforce these requirements and will not let you disembark without proof of inoculation.

I'm taking prescription medications. Will I have problems bringing the pills I need?
No. Just be sure to leave them in their original containers. Also, be sure that your prescription medications will be sufficient to cover the duration of your cruise. Re-filling subscriptions in some ports can be difficult and often time-consuming. Don't ever pack needed prescription medicine in checked luggage. That's what your carry on luggage is for.

What about motion sickness?
Most cruise ships avoid rough seas wherever possible. When rough seas are encountered, out go the stabilizers to help smooth the way. The operative word here is "help." Even a 100,000-ton ship is subject to the motion of the seas just as a 747 jumbo jet often reminds you you're still airborne. Having said all this, there are a number of readers out there who are probably feeling a bit queasy just reading these lines. If you're one of them, there are plenty of medications to help. Some are available over the counter (Dramamine, Bonine, the wristbands, for instance) and some require a doctor's prescription (the "patch").

I'm pregnant. Can I still go on a cruise?
Congratulations, and yes, as long as you've not entered the third trimester at the time of your cruise departure.

Age Policies

Are there age requirements for cruise passengers?
Yes. Generally, cruises don't accept anyone under the age of 21 (on the date of sailing) onboard unless accompanied by an adult aged 25 or over. Underage married couples are the exception, but then written proof of marriage is required. Children are usually allowed to occupy their own staterooms, as long as their parents or guardians are in adjacent rooms. There are no maximum age limitations!

What about shipboard age restrictions?
Casinos are limited to guests 18 or older. Gym and spa facilities may be limited to guests 18 or older, unless accompanied by an adult, and on some ships, there are various "adults-only" performances, restaurants, theaters, pools, or sunning areas.

What about alcoholic beverage age restrictions?
Onboard alcoholic beverages are limited to guests 21 or over.

Baggage Regulations

What are the baggage allowances on cruise ships?
In general, cruise lines will not limit the amount of luggage you bring onboard though there may be limited storage space in your cabin for empty suitcases (most beds are designed to allow most suitcases to fit below). Additional storage space is available onboard. Your cabin attendant can help you store unneeded luggage until the end of your cruise. Airlines, however, do have restrictions on number, size, and weight of checked luggage and you may be charged for exceeding any of those limitations. What if I forget to pack something? It happens all the time. You have your brown shoes but forgot your brown purse or belt. Cruise boutiques are ready for you with all sorts of things for the forgetful packer. Or, you might turn around your loss and rationalize away a day of serious shopping at the next port of call! Rarely, however, does anyone walk off a cruise ship claiming they didn't pack enough.

Transportation Delays

What happens if my flight's late on the day of embarkation?
Since situations that contribute to flight delays vary so much that there's no easy answer to this question. The most important step is communication. Let the cruise line know that you are delayed. If you're traveling from a major city or through a major connecting city, chances are there are other passengers who are on your cruise, too. If you're aware of other cruise mates, advise your cruise line of this. An "estimated time of departure," however, is of limited use as these delays are often endlessly extended. If possible, contact the cruise line again once your flight is airborne, on route to the embarkation port, with a relatively firm estimated arrival time. If you made your air arrangements through the cruise line, advise them of this when you call. They may be able to assist you in making alternate travel arrangements to the cruise. Keep in mind that weather delays affect all airlines, limiting any alternate travel arrangements. Most cruise lines include a toll-free number to call if you are delayed traveling to your port of embarkation. Take it with you and use it if necessary!

Will the ship "hold" for me if I'm delayed?
Let's face it: a cruise line cannot "hold" a two-thousand-passenger ship for three or four hours awaiting a few passengers arriving from a delayed flight. However, they'll often delay a ship departure for a few minutes, particularly if there's a large group of delayed passengers on route. There are no rules or guidelines to follow in these matters.

If I miss my cruise departure, who is responsible?
As a general rule, airlines will assume responsibility - and cost - for carrying you to the ship's embarkation point or its next port of call if their delay is of a mechanical or crew scheduling nature. As a general rule, airlines will assume responsibility - but not cost - for making those same arrangements if the delay is due to weather, air traffic delays, or for other reasons beyond their control.

Do I get any refund if I miss a night or two of the cruise?
As a general rule, cruise lines will reimburse you on a per diem basis for nights missed on board a cruise caused by airline delays. The method of reimbursement varies by cruise lines.

Is there anything I can do so that I don't miss the ship?
Yes, there is. It's always advisable to schedule an overnight stay at a hotel in the port of embarkation prior to your cruise departure. Most cruise lines offer relatively inexpensive hotel packages to give you an extra margin of time. The extra night allows you to arrive on board your ship more refreshed and relaxed rather than frazzled by airport congestion, red-eye flights, or differences in time zones. Trust us. The extra expense is truly worth it.

I'm arriving by train. Do the same guidelines apply?
In general, yes. As with air travel, it's always advisable that you schedule your train's arrival at your cruise's embarkation city one day early to allow for possible delays. It also makes for a smoother, hassle-free and worry-free way to begin your vacation.

Transfers To/From the Ship

How do I get from the airport to the ship?
It depends on the arrangements you've made. If you have made air reservations with the cruise line (and paid in advance for their transfer program, if necessary to do so), you are generally met in the baggage claim area upon your arrival at the port city's airport. You can't miss the transfer staff as they're in uniforms and often carry signs bearing their cruise line's name or logo. In some cases you need only identify yourself to the cruise staff and follow their instructions for your transfer to the ship - your luggage is transferred for you. In other cases, you'll be asked to claim your luggage, present it to the cruise representative who'll then direct you to the transfer bus for your transportation to the cruise pier. Your checked luggage will be loaded onto your bus or a separate vehicle for transport to the ship and then to your cabin door. If you haven't purchased the transfer program, you'll need to make your own way to the cruise pier. Cruise line staff can direct you to appropriate, independent ground transportation to the pier. You'll be responsible for bringing your own luggage with you to the pier, where you can check it for transport to your cabin door.

Where can I find directions to the pier if I'm providing my own transportation?
For pier directions and general information, we have found the following website to be helpful: www.seaportsinfo.com. In some cases, cruise lines provide port location information along with your final documents.

Can I park at the pier?
Public parking is available at most major piers, usually at a per-day additional fee. You may want to check with www.seaportsinfo.com for information about your particular pier.

Embarkation When can I board the ship?
Embarkation usually begins about four hours prior to scheduled departure. All passengers must be onboard no later than 30 minutes prior to sailing. Some cruise lines permit earlier boarding but although you may have access to the ships public rooms and areas, you may still have to wait to gain access to your cabin.

What do I need to know about the embarkation processes?
Generally, cruise line check in is done alphabetically (or by cabin category) with well-marked check-in positions posted. Proof of citizenship, visas (if applicable), and photo IDs are checked. It's also the time to check your luggage if you've not already done so. You may be asked to establish your onboard credit (how do you wish to pay for your onboard purchases?), confirm your dining preferences and finalize any special requests you may have made. If boarding has begun, you may board at your leisure. If boarding has not begun, most cruise terminals offer sitting areas, snack bars or restaurants, but not much else. Find a seat, relax, and do some people watching.

Are there security regulations?
Luggage is subject to x-ray and other examination prior to embarkation. Metal detectors are often used to screen boarding passengers and crew. You may be asked to open any parcels or handbags you are carrying. As added security, cruise passengers are required to carry their "Cruise Card" and photo I.D. at all times. Depending on the cruise line, will receive your Cruise Card at check-in or in your stateroom after boarding. Each time you exit and re-board your ship you will be asked to present your Cruise Card.

Are there safe deposit boxes on board?
Yes. Most cruise ships have safe deposit boxes at the front desk for securing your valuables. Also, newer cruise ships usually have mini-safes in each room for the storage of personal valuables.

Visitors

Are visitors allowed onboard?
Generally not. The reason usually cited is safety and security concerns. There are occasional exceptions that vary by cruise line and/or local port regulations. In the case of onboard weddings and ceremonies, arrangements must be made in advance so that members of your party will be admitted onboard. It's best to check with us for your cruise line's particular policies.

Can I invite friend aboard at ports of call during the cruise?
Again, in most cases the answer will be no, and again, for safety and security concerns.

Luggage Delays

What happens if my luggage doesn't arrive from my flight?
Report your missing luggage both to the airline (be sure to file a missing bag claim with them and retain a copy of that claim) and the cruise line representative at the airport. If the luggage can not be located in time for your cruise departure, the airlines and cruise staff will work to see that it's forwarded to your ship at the next port of call. If the cruise line's procedure at your port of embarkation does not require that you claim your luggage on arrival at the airport, you may not be aware of your loss until after the ship's departure. In this case, immediately contact the front desk and supply them with the necessary bag tag numbers and description of your missing bags. They will then alert the airlines and arrange for your baggage to connect with you at the next port of call. If you claimed your luggage at the arrival airport and presented it to the cruise line for transfer but it was not delivered to your cabin door, contact the cruise ship's front desk immediately. It may have been left off the ship or (more hopefully) inadvertently brought to the wrong cabin. Most cruise lines offer baggage protection that will reimburse you for loss or delays of your checked luggage.

I've been onboard for over an hour and my bags still haven't been delivered to my cabin. What do I do?
Don't panic. Cruise ships regularly load 4,000 or more pieces of luggage. The luggage is usually brought on board and organized in holding areas before being sent off to passenger cabins. It's not unusual for a ship to have sailed with luggage still to be sorted and delivered to passenger cabins. If you're still concerned, just ask your cabin steward or check with the front desk.

Once On Board

What should I do once I get on board?
Do the obvious: find your cabin! Some cruise lines station staff at the ship's entrance that will escort you to your cabin. If not, there are plenty of staff members available to direct and assist you. Most cruise lines have easy-to-read deck plan maps to help you locate your cabin and main public rooms. Once in your cabin, you may find instructions on your dining arrangements and establishment of shipboard credit (see below). Locate your life vests and muster station.

How do I verify my table number or confirm my dining arrangements?
If verification didn't take place during check-in, follow the instructions usually found in your cabin when you first boarded. If you need to obtain your table number, you'll probably be asked to check with the maitre d' at a designated location (not always a dining room). You may also confirm any special dietary requests you may have at this time.

What's this I keep hearing about "establishing shipboard credit?"
You've already paid for your cruise but there will almost surely be a few services or items you'll be purchasing while onboard, such as drinks, logo items, shore excursions, etc. So that you don't have to carry cash around the ship with you all day, cruise ships today are "cashless." Cashless doesn't mean free, however. You're still asked (either at check-in or once onboard the ship) to present a major credit card or sign for payment by cash or traveler's check. Onboard purchases are then recorded and charged to your credit card. Most cruise lines will not accept personal checks but most accept U.S. currency and traveler's checks.

What happens if I run out of cash during the cruise?
It's not the end of the world. Most cruise ships have ATMs onboard. So do most ports of call. Arrangements for the advancement of funds can be made through banks (remember them?) at most ports of call, too. Generally, cruise lines will not cash personal checks.

What in the world is the "muster drill"?
Before or soon after your ship sets sail, a compulsory safety drill must take place to comply with U.S. Coast Guard and international safety regulations. The drill, announced over the ship's PA system, requires you to report to a designated ship location - your "muster station." The location of each muster station is diagramed in your cabin. Be sure to bring your life vest with you (also found in your cabin), as you will be instructed in its use.

What if I don't like my cabin? Can I change it?
Most cruise lines sail full or nearly so. There's often little flexibility with last-minute cabin change requests. Nevertheless, always voice any concerns or complaints as soon as possible in the event an adjustment can be made.

What does my cabin attendant do?
Usually your cabin attendant will introduce himself or herself to you soon after you board. Unless you have special needs or requests during your cruise, it's unlikely that you'll be seeing your attendant often. They pride themselves in unobtrusive service, making your beds, cleaning your room, seeing that you have fresh towels, turning down your beds at night (most lines provide a sweet on your pillow) while you are away from your room. Let them know if you have any requests (fresh fruit, room service, extra towels, problems with cabin temperature, etc.).

Can I keep in touch with the rest of the world?
Most cruises are equipped with telephones, fax machines, credit-card phones, and e-mail access though these services almost always entail an additional fee. To receive calls onboard from land, the caller will need the name of your vessel, the ocean region code and the vessel ID number. This will connect them directly to the Communications Center onboard, who will then transfer the call to you. Your final cruise documents generally supply you with all available communication information. Be sure to pass this on to a friend or relative should there be an emergency while you're away. A new service now allows cell phone users to make and receive calls while at sea. (Just don't tell your boss.)

Will my electric toothbrush/shaver/hair dryer/whatever work on the ship?
Most major cruise ships (especially those that cater to North American travelers) have 110v/220v outlets. Keep in mind that a number of cruise ships provide built-in hair dryers.

What about my dirty laundry?
Don't throw it overboard. A number of cruise ships have self-service laundries onboard. All cruise ships offer laundry and dry-cleaning service.

What is the alcohol policy onboard?
Regardless of local port restrictions, the consumption of alcohol is restricted to those cruise passengers 21 years of age or older. An individual's age on the date of the cruise departure governs his or her status for the entire cruise. Most cruise lines will also state that they reserve the right to limit or prohibit the carriage of alcohol onboard for personal consumption.

Tips

What's the deal on tipping?
Tipping policies and suggestions vary from cruise line to cruise line an industry "average" can still be quoted here to provide a guideline. One or more cruise lines now automatically add a tipping surcharge to your shipboard account (you can request adjustments as you see fit) and yet another cruise line confirms a "tipping not required" policy (yet mentions that you are free to extend monetary recognition to cruise staff.) Still, on the average, expect to allow about $8.00 - $10.00 a day per cruise passenger to cover tips to your cabin attendant and wait staff.

What's the deal on the dress code? Do I need to bring formalwear onboard?
Cruise line dress codes vary. Traditionally, most cruise lines had one "formal" night during a three or four-night cruise, two "formal" nights on a seven-night cruise, for example. Dress codes have loosened up recently, and on most cruise lines it's entirely possible to travel on a week's cruise and never wear anything more formal than slacks and a maybe a collared shirt or casual top. Each cruise line differs in its options and the staff at Travel by Hyatt would be happy to help answer your questions regarding particular cruise lines. For the sake of a guideline, however, here's how it goes: Casual: For women - a pants suit, skirt and blouse, or casual dress. For men - slacks and a sport shirt. Informal: For women - a nice pants suit or dress. For men - a jacket, dress shirt, and usually a tie. Formal: For women - dressy pants suit or evening gown. For men - a dark suit and tie or a tuxedo. On a seven-night cruise, a traditional cruise typically has three casual nights, two informal nights, and two formal nights. Although rarely are dress codes strictly enforced, you'll feel more comfortable if you go with the flow. Plus, you always have the option of a casual alternate dining venue (and if you're really into informality, there's always room service!).

Do I have to go out and buy "cruise-wear?"
No. In fact, you probably have everything you need to cruise in your closet or dresser right now. Keep in mind that on most large cruise ships you may rent and/or buy formal wear such as tuxedos, sequined tops, ties, etc. Also, you can always do some shopping during the cruise for any clothing items you may have forgotten.

How do I pay for things onboard?
The same way you do it at home: you charge it. During cruise check-in or shortly after boarding you'll be asked to establish shipboard credit (most passengers present a major credit card for this purpose) allowing you to sign for most shipboard purchases including drinks, shore excursions, and gift shop items. Except for casino gambling and a few other instances, your onboard experience is totally "cashless." Your bill is presented before the conclusion of your cruise.

What's the typical day like onboard a ship?
It varies from leisurely days at sea, to busy days hustling off to visit ports of call. But basically, the day is everything you make it to be: a day of activities or a day spent asleep on a deck chair. All cruise lines publish a daily onboard list of events and activities so you can plan your day as you see fit.

What if I have an injury onboard?
All major cruise ships feature an onboard infirmary. Some, depending on the size of the ship, are amazingly well equipped and are often linked by satellite to major medical facilities ashore. All can dispense emergency aid. For major medical treatments, most cruise ship doctors will recommend transfer ashore to reputable hospitals or urgent care facilities.

Shore Excursions

What's the deal on shore excursions?
There are some real pros and cons but it all comes down to three factors: where you are, how many of you there are, and how adventuresome you are. In large, familiar, and unless someone in your group is bilingual - English-speaking ports, going it on your own might be suggested, especially if there are three or more in your group and you can share the cost of a cab or private car. But in unfamiliar parts of the world, you might feel safer and more secure on a ship-sponsored (though invariably more costly) excursion.

What are the benefits of a ship-sponsored shore excursion?
Accountability. The tour company is a reputable company that has to answer to the cruise line if there are complaints. Quality. The tour itinerary has been researched and approved by the cruise line for quality. Language. The tour guide speaks serviceable English. Punctuality. The cruise line is responsible for making sure you're back to the ship on time. Familiarity. Everyone on your tour is also on your cruise.

What are the benefits of going it on your own while in port?
Price. On a per person basis, independently arranged tours are usually less expensive. Flexibility. You sometimes have more options and more free time than cruise line-arranged tours. Adventure. You're doing something different - not following the "cattle call" mentality.

How will I know which ones to choose?
Most cruise lines provide detailed shore excursion information with your final cruise documents. Shipboard port lectures (often viewable on your cabin TV) provide some clues to help you decide on ship-sponsored tours. Also, cruise ships have shore excursion or information desks staffed to handle most of your questions. Cruise arranged shore excursions are rated as to their degree of physical effort (amount of walking, stepping, climbing, etc.) required.

How do I pay for shore excursions?
For cruise arranged shore excursions you can pay through your shipboard account. For independently arranged tours, you will usually need to pay in cash or by credit card. Always know exactly what you're getting for the price quoted before any money changes hands.

Debarkation

What should I do to prepare for debarkation?
For disembarkation, all guests are required to ready their checked luggage on the final night of the cruise. If possible, try to pack all items you'll need to declare (items you purchased while out of the country) together in one bag. You'll be given specially marked or color-coded tags to affix to all checked luggage. Checked luggage must be placed outside your cabin door on the last night evening of your cruise for removal to shipboard holding rooms so that it can be offloaded early the next morning. You will not have access to it until the next morning in customs. Don't forget to lay out your overnight and next day's clothing and toiletries needs since you will not have access to your luggage until after you've cleared Customs the next day. (Don't forget to also retain enough carry-on baggage in which to pack it all!) Be especially careful not to pack needed medicines or pills in your checked luggage. Cruise lines will always supply you with written detailed instructions and information regarding all debarkation formalities a day or two before your arrival. Read it!

What will customs clearance entail?
It depends on the location of your port of debarkation. If you are returning by ship to the United States you are subject to U.S. Customs regulations. You must complete a U.S. Customs declaration form whether you've made foreign purchases or not. Additionally, the form should list (a verbal declaration may be made in some instances) all dutiable items purchased in foreign ports or aboard the ship. If you are ending your cruise in a port outside of the United States, you are subject to the customs clearance requirements of that country. Eventually, however, whether by ship, air, or surface transportation, you will be returning to the United States or Canada and subject to that country's regulations. The following information is for U.S. residents returning to the United States. It should serve only as a guideline. For more detailed information, check on line for U.S. Customs regulations (www.customs.ustreas.gov), specifically the "Know Before You Go" information. The standard deduction is $400.00. This means you may return with up to $400.00 in dutiable items and pay no customs tax. Some items (fine art, for example) are not dutiable and thus exempt from the customs tax. The Caribbean Basin countries allowable deduction is $600.00. This applies to most Caribbean countries, the Bahamas, and a few Central American nations, except as noted below. The U.S. insular possession allowable deduction is $1,200. This applies to the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and Guam. Keep in mind that the above is just a guideline. Various exemptions for alcohol and cigarette also apply and the regulations can be quite complex. Again, consult the U.S. Custom's "Know Before You Go" online at www.customs.ustreas.gov.

Help! All these exemptions and duty-free information is confusing. Where else can I find information?
On your ship. Members of your ship's staff are well informed on rules and regulations and often hold debarkation talks prior to your ship's arrival. In some cases, U.S. Customs agents actually board your ship a day or more prior to debarkation to help smooth the debarkation process. They are always available to answer your questions.

How do I find my way to the airport (or train station)?
That depends on whether you purchased transfers from the cruise line. In most cases, purchase of the cruise lines' air program entitles you to complimentary transfers to the airport. If your transfers are included, check with the cruise line representatives outside of Customs (they are not permitted within the customs area). They will direct you to your transfers to the airport. Be sure that your luggage travels with you. In most cases, you are brought to the airport so that you are available for check-in at least 90 minutes prior to scheduled flight time. Several cruise lines maintain train/sea (versus air/sea) programs and your transfer may involve travel to a train station. Otherwise, simply arrange for ground transportation (bus, taxi, train, etc.) to the airport or train station. Port and cruise line representatives are always on hand to help you find your way.

What do I do if I'm staying over in the port of debarkation?
That depends if you purchased a hotel package with Travel by Hyatt through the cruise line or on your own. If you purchased the package through us, most likely the cruise line has made a hotel transfer arrangement for you. Check with your cruise representative as soon as you've cleared customs. If you've made an independent, post-cruise arrangement, you'll need to make your own way to your hotel. Some hotels (and car rental companies) offer complimentary transfers from cruise ports to their properties. Again, check with your port or cruise line representative. Top