About cruises:
What is included in the cruise price?
Most cruises come inclusive of accommodation, meals (but not bar beverages), shipboard entertainment and leisure facilities. Certain spa treatments, excursions and leisure amenities will need to be paid for. If you’ve booked a cruise only holiday you’ll need to pay for flights or travel to the departure point separately.
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Is my cruise itinerary subject to change?
All cruise itineraries are subject to change, though this is rare. Reasons could include bad weather conditions or problems at the port-of-call.
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Are cruises suitable for children?
Today’s world cruises are a far cry from the stuffy ones of the past. As well as the ubiquitous swimming pools, there are climbing walls, skating rinks, cinemas, live family entertainment and organised clubs for kids and teens. Some luxury cruises are adult-only, while others cater specifically for families – Thomson and RCL cruises, for example.
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Booking your cruise holiday:
How do i book?
You can either book your holiday on-line or you can contact one of our experienced travel advisors on 0845 600 3063 for more information.
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I’m flying out to my ship – how do I get there?
Normally the cruise lines run shuttle buses from the airport to the liner. If you’ve booked “cruise only” you’ll have to arrange your own flights, but can normally still use the shuttle bus for a fee. UK ports all have long-term parking.
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On board the ship:
When do I board?
Embarkation begins around 4 hours before the ship departs.
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What is an inside stateroom?
An inside cabin or stateroom has no sea view. Outside cabins have portholes, windows and often balconies and verandas as well.
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Are there different deck classes?
No. Today’s world cruises are all one class. However, there are different levels of accommodation, with the more exclusive rooms generally on the higher decks.
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What if I’m seasick?
Owing to the size of cruise liners and the fact they are stabilised, you’re unlikely to get seasick. If you feel queasy, medicine is available from the ship’s doctor.
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What about my medication?
As with any other holiday, you should check your travel insurance covers you for travelling. Keep all medications with you in your hand luggage, and make sure you have enough to see you through the holiday.
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How do I pay for purchases?
Like a hotel, you can charge drinks and extras to your room, and they’ll be billed to your credit card. Alternatively, you can cash travellers’ cheques on board, or use a cash deposit scheme.
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How do I dine on board?
Most luxury cruises have a main dining room with two seatings and prescribed table allocations. However many lines, such as NCL Cruises, have adapted a more flexible, freestyle approach. All ships have a choice of restaurants, from ultra-casual to formal dress code.
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Do I have to disembark at each port of call?
No, not at all. However, we at The Co-operative Travel should remind you that some of the ship’s facilities will be closed or off-limits.
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