Frequently Asked Questions

If you have yet to cruise, or are considering taking your first cruise, it is likely that you have many questions. On this page we will try to answer the most usual queries raised by first-time cruisers. If your question isn’t addressed here, do use the contact form or social media to contact us directly and we will make sure you have all the answers you need.

Is Cruising Just for the Retired/Older Generation?

No, cruising is multi-generational. It is true that so called ‘baby boomers’ cruise a lot, primarily due to having more time and more disposable income. However, cruise companies have made concerted efforts to attract younger people and families, by providing fabulous new facilities and attractions. If, however, you are concerned that you may be the youngest on board, choose your ship wisely, using the information on this website. Some ships are more family friendly than others for example, whilst others are great if you like a party atmosphere. Cruising is no longer ‘just for old people’!

Will I Get Sea Sick?

Unlikely, but not impossible. However, modern ships have such state-of-the-art facilities such as stabilisers and navigational equipment which allows them to steer around stormy weather, that most people do not get seasick. If you are prone to motion sickness, then you may still become nauseous. There are a few steps you can take to help avoid this. Firstly, choose a larger vessel and a cabin mid-ships (in the middle of the ship). Secondly, spend as much time as you can on deck, using the horizon as a focal point to maintain your equilibrium. Avoid sitting up in the crows nest bar (or equivalent) at the top of the ship as the motion is more noticeable there. If you are worried, take some precautionary medication with you, (although you can usually get these on board), or try an alternative remedy such as wrist bands or eating ginger.

What about tipping?

Tipping (or gratuities as they are know on board) are a traditional way of recognising good service. Historically, they were used to supplement very low pay and were paid in cash at the end of a voyage to cabin stewards, bar and restaurant staff. Today, you are often able to pre-pay your gratuities before your cruise, or have them billed to your on-board account daily at a recommended amount. Some cruise lines have abolished tipping and service charges altogether so it is worth investigating. Read my blog post for more details.

Do I Have To Dress Up For Dinner?

Dress codes have become much more relaxed on most ships. A few do still maintain standards on their Formal Nights/Gala Nights, which traditionally advise wearing tuxedo/dinner suit for men and evening dresses (long or short) for ladies. However, most cruise lines are opting for a compromise, prioritising the comfort of their guests; allowing for those who wish to dress up not to feel out of place, by asking those who prefer more casual dress to adhere to a minimum of formality in the main dining room (at least a shirt and long trousers). The individual cruise line FAQs will have details of their dress code policy. However, If you dress as you would on a smart night out you will be fine.

Won’t I Get Bored?

Definitely not! There is so much to do that you will probably find you don’t have enough time to do it all! Again choose your ship wisely based on your interests. If you are an Adrenalin junkie then there are ships with thrilling attractions to rival any theme Park. If you love water parks, choose a ship with an aqua park on board. If you like to keep active, most ships have a jogging track, some have climbing walls, and all have well-equipped gyms. For sports lovers there are golfing nets and simulators, tennis/basket ball courts and even football (soccer) facilities. Of course, you might decide just to chill out in the spa, the pool or Jacuzzi.

Are There Facilities for Children?

Unless the ship is explicitly adult-only, children (and babies over a certain age) are welcome on board. All ships will have a children’s zone of some sort, but those listed as family friendly go overboard (if you pardon the pun). Some have a whole deck with different sections for different age groups. There are fabulous playrooms for the youngest sailors and sophisticated activities for older children and teams. There are organised parties, activities and entertainment. There are even water parks and theme-park type attractions. Again it is important to do your homework to find the right ship for you.

I will be adding to these FAQs over time, so please visit again or contact me if your question isn’t answered here. Also check out my blog where I will cover some of your questions in more depth.

What Happens If I Miss The Ship

If your outward journey is delayed and your boat sails without you, provided you have adequate travel insurance or booked flights via the cruise line, you should be covered. You will have the choice of joining your ship at the next port of call or abandoning your trip. Without insurance, you are liable for any costs incurred

if you miss the ship in one of the ports of call, you will receive assistance if it was the fault of an excursion sourced by the cruise line. However if you miss it doe to late return of a private excursion or through negligence, then I am afraid you will have to make your own arrangements. Read more in related blog post

What Happens on Sea Days?

Most cruises have sea days when sailing between ports. You will receive a cruise information sheet in your cabin each night which will outline the next days activities. There are lots of fun things organised to amuse you on sea days. Alternatively, you might use the day just to explore the ship, pamper yourself or just kick back. Read my post “What to Expect on a Sea Day” for more ideas.