Frequently Asked Cruise Questions

You can book a cruise by sending an enquiry to us by clicking the “Enquire Now” button on one of our amazing cruise offers or by calling one our cruise experts on 0203 884 2555.

Generally, the cruise fare includes accommodation, meals (in designated dining areas), onboard entertainment, and use of most onboard facilities. Some cruises may also include certain beverages and gratuities.

Yes, you can make special requests for your room such as specific bedding configurations, dietary needs, or accessibility requirements at the time of booking.

Most cruise lines operate on a cashless system where onboard expenses are charged to your onboard account. You can settle this account at the end of the cruise with a credit card or cash.

Yes, travel insurance is generally recommended to protect against unforeseen circumstances like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.

  • Cruise Ship Rooms

There are four main types of cabin (or stateroom) on a cruise ship;

  • Inside Cabins

Cabins with no porthole or window. These cabins are usually the cheapest option. However, the same amenities and services will be available to guests staying in an inside cabin.

  • Outside Cabins

These cabins may also be referred to as ocean-view cabins. These cabins will usually be the same size and layout as the inside cabin but will have a window or porthole.

Some cruise lines will also have the option to have an outside cabin with partial or full obstruction. These cabins will also have a window or porthole, but there will be an obstruction outside the window (this is often a lifeboat).

  • Balcony Cabins

Balcony cabins are usually bigger than the standard inside and outside cabins. They can also be referred to as a veranda cabin. A balcony cabin will offer a little bit of outdoor space via a sliding French door. Often you will have a table and chairs (or for larger balcony cabins you may even have a lounger!) on your balcony, so you can sit and enjoy your outside space. Depending on the cabin, some balcony cabins have a glass-fronted balcony, others may have a metal-fronted balcony.

  • Suite

A suite is the most expensive cabin type on a cruise ship. There are various types of suites. The size of the suite can also vary, and it is not uncommon to have a large living area that is separate from your bedroom. There will be a large bathroom (which may include a bath as well as a shower) and often with more luxurious toiletries. Suites will often offer a balcony, and the larger balcony suites may also include a hot tub! Suites will usually include many additional extras as well - such as fruit and wine on arrival, a butler service, priority boarding, and much more.

  • Other cabin types
  • Single Cabins

Suitable for solo guests. Most cruise lines have a limited number of single cabins. These cabins are a cheaper option for those travelling on their own, often with no or reduced single supplement, and will offer the same amenities and services as other cabin types.

  • Interconnecting Cabins

Interconnecting cabins are two adjacent cabins of the same type with an interconnecting door in the middle of them. Perfect for families, multi-generation holidays, or a group of friends.

  • Accessible Cabins

These cabins are also referred to as adapted cabins. An accessible cabin will have wider doorways and a wet room-style en-suite bathroom with grab rails. They will be able to accommodate guests who use a wheelchair, with plenty of space to manoeuvre.

Speak to our cruise specialists to discuss your requirements. Call 020 3514 3286.

  • Family Suites

A family suite is a larger cabin that will accommodate 4+ guests. Family cabins or suites are very limited and not all cruise lines have them! Some will have more than one bedroom, as well as a pull-out sofa bed to accommodate a larger number of guests.

  • Guarantee Cabins

A guarantee cabin is when the cruise line designates your exact cabin number near the sailing date or at any time right up until the day you board the ship.

In this case, you can choose the cabin type. This will guarantee a set minimum level of cabin grade indicated by the cabin type you have chosen such as Inside/Outside/Balcony. However, you have no choice in your cabin’s location onboard the ship.

Cruise ship cabins could be fitted with UK, US or European electric plug sockets. Most cruise lines have at least two varieties but it’s always best to check what type of plug adaptor you’ll need if required before you travel. Newer ships may also have USB sockets in the cabins but older ships are unlikely to.

Cruise ship plug socket varieties:

  • UK 2 pin plug
  • American 2 pin plug (flat), 110v
  • European 2 pin plug (round) 220v

Please see below a summary of popular cruise lines’ plug socket types. For any lines not listed here, please see the individual cruise line’s website.

  • Cunard:

UK Yes
EU Yes
US Yes

  • Costa:

UK No
EU Yes
US No

  • Disney Cruise Line:

UK No
EU No
US Yes

  • Celebrity Cruises:

UK No
EU Yes
US Yes

  • Fred Olsen:

UK No
EU Yes
US No

  • MSC Cruises:

UK No
EU Yes
US Yes

  • Norwegian Cruise Line:

UK No
EU No
US Yes

  • P&O Cruises:

UK Yes
EU Yes
US Yes

  • Princess Cruises:

UK No
EU No
US Yes

  • Royal Caribbean Lines:

UK No
EU No
US Yes

  • Carnival:

UK No
EU Yes
US Yes

  • Holland America Line:

UK No
EU Yes
US Yes

There is an opportunity with Cruiseline, where you can opt-in for a complimentary Automatic Upgrade, this is an exciting way for you to get more for your money.

These Automatic Upgrades are provided at the discretion of cruiseline and they are unable to take any requests.

You can select "Open to Any Upgrade", which means any cabin in the grade you have selected or of a higher grade. For example, you have an Inside cabin, and can be moved to any other Inside cabin or to any Outside cabin.

(OR)

You can select "Upgrade to Next Stateroom Type", which means you can only move up to a higher grade. For example, you have an Inside cabin and can only be Auto Upgraded to an Outside cabin, not another Inside.

If you do request to opt-in for an Automatic Upgrade, the cruise line can move you from your current cabin, into what they consider to be a higher grade, regardless of the location of the cabin, or of it having an obstructed view.

Once you are given the Automatic Upgrade by the cruise line, you are unable to decline the offer or reinstate your original cabin. They can locate your cabin on any deck, in any location.

Cruiselines do not guarantee that an upgrade will be made. They will also not guarantee that linked bookings will all receive an upgrade, and even if they do, that the cabins will be near each other or of the same category. Please consider carefully whether you wish to be considered for an automatic upgrade.

Should you wish to book a cabin to be near other members of your party or a specific location onboard, you should not opt for the automatic upgrade, unless you are happy to be moved away from your original cabin location.

Please note, there are some booking where you cannot decline the Auto Upgrade option.

At a basic level, all cabins tend to be equipped with all the amenities of a typical hotel room. Of course, cabins and their fittings range greatly by cruise line and the category of cabin, stateroom or suite you choose.

Here is a list of items typically found in a cruise ship cabin.

  • En-suite bathroom
  • Bed
  • Tea and coffee making facilities
  • Hairdryer
  • Safe
  • Full-length mirror
  • Wardrobe
  • TV
  • Phone

For more information on what is provided in cruise ship cabins, please see the “Cabin Details” section for each ship on our website.

The availability within your cabin to make tea or coffee varies between cruise lines, and even individual ships or itineraries.

If not in your room specifically, all lines have tea and coffee stations around the ship where you can make yourself a hot drink, usually 24 hours a day.

Most cruise lines offer room service either round the clock or during set meal windows. These services could be complimentary, at a charge or with gratuities depending on the line you choose to cruise with and the accommodation type you stay in with its included benefits.

Most cruise lines have some form of safe in all cabins onboard but exact sizes and features vary. Some lines may also have a storage service for large, fragile, or valuable items if you speak to a member of staff.

For more information please see our safe storage guide per cruise line or check their own website.

Unfortunately, due to safety and fire regulations, items such as irons or kettles are not permitted to be brought onboard.

For kettles, most cruise lines do have tea and coffee-making facilities in the cabin and if not, there are facilities located around the ship- usually in the buffet area and often 24 hours.

Irons and travel irons should not be taken onboard as they are considered a risk to fire safety and therefore prohibited. Laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing facilities are available onboard most ships for a charge. A lot of ships will have a launderette facility available onboard, so that guests can wash and dry their own items of clothing.

Most cruise lines will allow hair straighteners to be taken onboard, but we advise you to check the website of the cruise line you are travelling with for a definitive answer. You should consider the voltage used on the ship to ensure it is suitable for your equipment and when finished, always ensure you unplug any items like this and leave them in a safe location.

Pack comfortable clothing, swimwear, formal attire for formal nights (if applicable), toiletries, and any necessary medications.

Some cruises have formal nights where formal attire is required. Dress codes for other nights are usually casual or smart casual.

A valid passport is typically required for international cruises. Visas may also be required depending on the ports of call.

Check with your cruise line or a healthcare provider for recommended vaccinations or health requirements for your specific cruise itinerary.

Most cruise lines have policies regarding bringing alcohol onboard. Check with your specific cruise line for their policy.

One of our customer service representatives will send you the details of how to log in to the relevant Cruise Line’s booking system where you will be able to access your tickets. Typically, this will happen between 4-6 weeks before you depart. All other documentation for other relevant elements to your holiday (i.e. hotels, flights, transfers etc) will also be sent at this time.

Visit the airline's website and log in to your booking using your confirmation number or frequent flyer details. Look for an option like "Manage Booking" or "My Trips" where you can view and modify your booking details, including seat selection.

Meal times can vary by cruise line and ship, but generally:

  • Breakfast: 7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
  • Lunch: 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Some ships also offer buffet and snack options throughout the day.

Yes, most cruise lines offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It's best to inform the cruise line of any dietary restrictions when booking and speak to the dining staff once onboard.

Many cruise lines offer both assigned seating and open dining options. Some ships have designated dining times, while others offer flexible dining where you can dine anytime within certain hours.

Activities can include onboard games, workshops, fitness classes, cooking demonstrations, art auctions, and more. There's usually a daily schedule of activities provided to guests.

Yes, Wi-Fi is typically available onboard, though it may come at an additional cost.

You can usually access the internet via the ship's Wi-Fi network by purchasing an internet package or using a pay-as-you-go option.

Yes, some activities, like the casino or certain fitness classes, may have age restrictions. Children's programs often have age-specific activities.

Yes, you can use your mobile phone onboard, but roaming charges may apply. Some cruise lines offer onboard mobile plans or Wi-Fi calling options.

Most cruise ships have a medical facility with a doctor and nurse onboard to provide medical care if needed.

In case of an emergency, contact the ship's crew immediately or use the emergency procedures outlined in your cabin. Familiarize yourself with the ship's safety protocols upon embarkation.

The ports visited depend on your specific cruise itinerary. Check your cruise line's website or itinerary details for the list of ports.

It's recommended to book popular shore excursions in advance as they can fill up quickly. However, you can often book excursions onboard or at the port.

Shore excursion durations vary depending on the activity. They can range from a couple of hours to a full day.

Some ports offer family-friendly activities or excursions tailored for children. Check with the cruise line or excursion provider for options.

While many ports are safe for independent exploration, it's always a good idea to research the safety of each port and take necessary precautions like staying in tourist areas and being aware of your surroundings.

You can find your cruise embarkation port address in your booking confirmation email, on the cruise line's website, or in your travel itinerary. Additionally, check any physical documents or online check-in platforms provided by the cruise line. If you're still unable to locate the address, reach out to us for assistance.

If you have any questions about the embarkation process, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to assist you with any queries you may have, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your cruise journey. You can contact our Customer Service team via email or phone, and we'll be happy to provide you with the information you need.

In most ports, the ship will dock at the pier, allowing passengers to walk down the gangway to the quayside. However, in some instances where the water is too shallow, the ship cannot get close enough to the shore.

In these cases, known as 'Tender Ports', small boats are utilized to ferry passengers between the ship and the shore. Typically, the ship’s own lifeboats are deployed for this purpose, but in certain ports of call, the local port authority may provide their own tender boats.

For guests with full-time wheelchair usage or serious mobility limitations, it is advisable to carefully review the cruise itinerary at the time of booking to identify any designated Tender Ports. This is important because the ability to disembark at these ports may be subject to restrictions imposed by the Cruise Line Health & Safety Regulations, particularly during adverse sea conditions.

Entertainment options can include live music, theater shows, comedy acts, movies, and themed parties.

Yes, most cruise lines offer nightly shows or performances ranging from Broadway-style productions to comedy acts and magic shows.

Yes, most cruise ships have a spa offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and beauty services.

Yes, cruise ships typically have fitness centers with gym equipment, and some offer fitness classes like yoga, Pilates, and aerobics.

Pool and deck hours can vary, but they generally open early in the morning and close in the evening. Some ships may have designated adult-only hours for the pool. Check onboard for specific hours.

Yes, many cruise lines offer specialty dining options, which are usually restaurants with a unique menu or theme. These may come at an additional cost.

Yes, you can often make dining reservations for specialty restaurants and sometimes for main dining rooms, especially on larger cruise ships with multiple dining venues.

Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks like water, tea, and coffee are often included in the cruise fare. Alcoholic beverages and specialty drinks usually come at an additional cost.

Most cruise lines do not allow guests to bring their own food onboard due to health and safety regulations. Some exceptions may be made for dietary needs; it's best to check with the cruise line.

Children's activities can include arts and crafts, games, scavenger hunts, movies, and themed parties. Many cruise lines also offer dedicated children's programs with age-appropriate activities.

Yes, most cruise lines offer kids' clubs or childcare services where trained staff supervise and engage children in various activities. Some even offer babysitting services for an additional fee.

Yes, many cruise ships offer family-friendly cabins or suites that can accommodate families with multiple beds or connecting rooms.

Yes, babies and infants are generally welcome onboard. Some cruise lines offer cribs or pack 'n plays upon request, but it's best to check in advance.

Yes, most cruise lines offer special children's menus with kid-friendly options like pizza, chicken fingers, pasta, and more.

In most cases, yes, although each cruise line sets its own regulations regarding the permissible stage of pregnancy at the start of the cruise. Therefore, we recommend consulting the FAQ section specific to your cruise line. If you are aware of your pregnancy before booking, please ensure to discuss this with our sales agent before confirming your booking.

Typically, the standard requirement is that you must not enter your 24th week of pregnancy at any time during the cruise or before its commencement. Failure to meet this requirement will result in inability to travel. This policy applies to several cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises, P&O, Princess, Cunard, MSC, and NCL.

Please inform us as soon as possible if you will be pregnant during the cruise. This will enable us to advise you on the necessary documentation required for boarding, usually including a letter from your GP stating your pregnancy's duration, your fitness to travel, and confirmation of a non-high-risk pregnancy.

Cruise lines that welcome children on board, will offer a range of baby equipment for use during your cruise.

Please check with your cruise line that they will provide the equipment that you need. Cruise lines may require prior notification, and there may be a time frame in which they need to be notified.

Things that you will need to bring with you:

  • Lightweight pushchair
  • Nappies
  • Swim nappies
  • Baby wipes
  • Sun cream
  • Sun Hat
  • Baby bath (inflatable bathtub may be a good option when you are travelling).
  • Baby bottles, baby cutlery, travel sterilisers, and sippy cups
  • Baby medicines
  • Baby wash, shampoo, and lotion

Each cruise line offers a variety of different options for the children. These are extremely popular so booking is essential. Normally free of charge but it depends on the cruise line.

Disembarkation procedures vary, but generally, you'll receive instructions and luggage tags the night before disembarkation. Follow the instructions for disembarkation times and procedures.

Some cruise lines have a formal or semi-formal dress code for the last night onboard. Check the daily newsletter or with the cruise line for specific dress code information.

Yes, most cruise ships have onboard shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, and other gifts.

Most cruise ships operate on a cashless system where purchases are made using your onboard account. The currency used for this account is typically US dollars, though some cruise lines may use Euros or another currency.

Yes, most cruise ships offer laundry services, including self-service laundromats and valet laundry services for an additional fee.

**Managing Trip Changes: What to Do When You Can't Travel - Cancellations and Postponements**

Determine the reason behind your inability to travel, whether it's due to personal reasons, health issues, or unexpected circumstances.

"Please reach out to our Customer Service Team at wecare@cruise2.com or via telephone at 02038842555. When you call, select option 2 to speak directly with our team, who will discuss the cancellation terms and available options with you."

These questions cover a wide range of concerns and curiosities that cruise guests might have. Cruise lines often have their own specific FAQs on their websites or in their informational materials to address more detailed or specific queries.

Enhance Your Holiday Experience: Upgrade Your Cruise Cabin, Flights, or Hotels with Our Assistance"

Call us or email us on wecare@cruise2.com and we will discuss the options available to you

Should you have any queries or wish to share feedback,we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated Customer Service team. You can contact us via email at wecare@cruise2.com or by phone at 02038842555. Our representatives are here to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring your satisfaction with our services.

These questions cover a wide range of concerns and curiosities that cruise guests might have. Cruise lines often have their own specific FAQs on their websites or in their informational materials to address more detailed or specific queries.

  • 1. Complete your check-in either on the cruise line's website or by downloading the cruise line's app or visit on their website
  • 2. Check your details are up to date on your reservation
  • 3. Make sure the cruise line and the travel agent have got your mobile number to be able to contact you in case of any operational changes
  • 4. Link your booking with your travelling group (if relevant) - you can do this by contacting us via My Booking and submitting a Customer Contact Form
  • 5. Check the entry requirements for your itinerary and all visited countries here
  • 6. Pack your passport and make sure it is valid for your travel. Passport validity requirements here
  • 7. Organise appropriate insurance and have proof of your policy. You can arrange this with Holiday Extras.
  • 8. Pre-book onboard activities and extras (drinks packages, speciality restaurants, spas, gifts) directly on the cruise line website by logging into your account. Please remember to use the cruise line booking reference.
  • 9. Pre-book shore excursions either directly with the cruise line online or by our partner Venture Ashore
  • 10. Complete the Health Declaration/Questionnaire online if required by your cruise line.

We understand that from time to time our customers may experience an issue with their resort transfer. Please follow these simple guidelines should you have an issue when you are away with your transfer.

  • Cruise Line Transfer

If your holiday package includes a transfer provided and arranged by your cruise line, you will need to contact the cruise line or speak to a cruise line representative if you have any problems or queries regarding your transfer.

  • Tailor-made bookings

If you have booked a Tailor-made package with us, we will have booked your transfer through our own supplier. You will receive a transfer voucher prior to travel (by email) and this voucher will contain all the information and contact details (including local emergency telephone numbers) that you need should you have an issue or any queries regarding your transfer whilst in the resort.

When preparing to take a cruise holiday, one of the most popular queries, is “how much spending money will I need?” and “do I use a card or the local currency whilst I am on a cruise?”

All cruise lines offer a cashless system, so you do not need cash whilst on board the ship. You will be asked to register your credit or debit card before you sail, and any purchases made on board will automatically be charged to this card. Most cruise lines however will give you the option to settle your onboard account with cash at the end of the cruise, if you prefer. Speak to the reception staff early on in your cruise to check if this is an option on your cruise.

During the cruise, you will stop at various ports of call. Whilst ashore you will need either a credit or debit card or cash on you.

The type of currency you take, of course, depends on which country you are in. For further guidance on this, visit Travelex.

We highly recommend that you take a small amount of the local currency with you. Many ships do have a Foreign Exchange service on board, so you can purchase currency once onboard the ship.

To check if your cruise lines offer a Foreign Exchange Service, take a list of our list below and follow the links for more information:

  • P&O Cruises
  • Fred Olsen
  • Cunard
  • Ambassador
  • Regent Seven Seas
  • Oceania

Cruise lines that do not offer Foreign Exchange or offer a very limited service:

  • Norwegian Cruise Lines
  • MSC
  • Royal Caribbean
  • Carnival
  • Celebrity

Port terminals may offer a Foreign Exchange service.

The safest way to carry your holiday spending money is by card. Major debit and credit cards are widely accepted in foreign ports.

Yes, as long as you have your booking reference and you are the guest travelling in the booking, we can discuss the booking with you. However amendments can only be made by the lead passenger, credit card or debit card holder.