BOOKING A CRUISE FAQ’s
I’m a first time cruiser, where do I start?
The number and variety of cruise holidays have grown so much that it’s sometimes difficult to know what to choose. Our friendly and knowledgeable cruise executives will expertly guide you through the various cruise options. We do this by finding out exactly what you want from your cruise holiday – if its relaxation an intimate river cruise would be ideal, if you want the buzz of being constantly on the go a mighty ocean cruise ship packed with facilities and onboard entertainment is just for you. We’ll take our time and go through all your queries to ensure that you choose the cruise line, cruise itinerary and duration that are right for you.
What’s included in my cruise holiday?
Your cruise holiday includes accommodation on board your chosen cruise ship plus most meals, activities and entertainment available on board. If you have arranged a cruise & stay holiday and/or flights and transfers through us, then your flights, transfers and hotel accommodation are also included.
What’s not included in my cruise holiday?
These vary depending on which cruise operator and which cruise holiday you have chosen, for exact details visit our Cruise Lines section. Generally the following are extra:
- Speciality / private dining restaurants Beverages – soft drinks and alcoholic drinks Spa treatments, hair salons / barbers Gambling expenses in casino Services such as dry cleaning / laundry Tips and gratuities Shore excursions
Please note if you have purchased an All Inclusive cruise holiday, many of the above will be included in your package.
When will my reservation be confirmed?
We will send a confirmation invoice to the party leader / travel agent 48 hours after your reservation has been made. Once received please check all details on the invoice and notify us immediately if any information appears to be incorrect or incomplete, within 24 hours of receipt.
How much deposit must I pay?
Usually the minimum deposit is £200 per person, the amount may vary according to the cruise line. If your booking includes a flight the price of the flight may be payable in full at booking stage. You will be advised of the deposit before your booking is confirmed. If you are making a booking within 12 weeks of departure date you will need to pay the full amount straight away.
How do I make a change to my travel arrangements?
If you need to make any changes the person who made the booking must notify us by contacting Customer Services. Amendment fees will apply and these are charged by your Cruise Line.
When must I pay my balance?
The date on which the balance of the holiday price is due will vary according to your chosen holiday. The date will be confirmed by your cruise executive or via our website, however in all circumstances this will be no later than 12 weeks before your departure date.
When can I expect to receive my travel documents?
All travel documents will be sent to you / your travel agent 21 days before your travel date. If your booking is made within 21 days of your travel documentation will be sent immediately. Your travel documents will be sent via email; however we will post documentation via first class, if there is a need to do so.
Your travel documents will consist of cruise tickets for yourself and your travel party. If you have arranged flights, travel insurance, a hotel stay and transfers through us, you will also receive documentations for these.
FlexiCruise provides the option of booking a cruise-only for those who wish to book their flights and transfers elsewhere. If this option is taken please ensure that when you book your flights and transfers that you have ample time for clearing customs on arrival and transferring to the port; disembarkation and checking in on your return date. For peace of mind we recommend that you arrive the day before the cruise sail, and book a mid-afternoon flight for your return.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
If you have booked a fly/cruise or a cruise & stay holiday with us, we will monitor the delay and take necessary action to ensure you meet the ship in time for departure. For cruise only holidays, where the flight and transfers have been arranged independently, you will need to contact the party this was booked through. FlexiCruise does not provide support for services made through other sources.
Do I still need to supply my Advance Passenger Information (API) details?
If your cruise holiday includes flights you are required to supply the API information, prior to departure. This includes information such as passport numbers, date of birth etc. Further information can be found at www. ukba. homeoffice. gov. uk.
LIFE ONBOARD FAQ’s
What is the dress code?
The majority of cruise lines have a dress code on board, these do vary so exact details will be included in your travel documents. But just to give you an idea:
- Daytime casual: Men / women - swimwear, sundresses, shorts, t-shirts. Shoes must be worn when lunching at a restaurant, you must cover up any swim wear Evening smart casual: Women – skirts, dress or smart trousers; Men - trousers and collared shirts Evening formal: Women – cocktail / long dresses or tailored suit; Men - suits and ties or tuxedos. The number of formal evening’s varies depending on duration, typically there is one on a 3 – 4 night cruise, two on a week cruise, three on a 10+ night cruise
Please note that there are some cruise lines that offer a more casual dress code in selected restaurants. Norwegian Cruise Lines has established casual dining in all its restaurants.
Cruise Dining FAQ
What is traditional dining?
Traditional dining is essentially formal dining, when guests get the chance to dress up for an elegant evening meal. This tradition is such a big draw for cruise guests that on the whole the majority of cruise lines embrace this option. Dining takes place at the same time each evening, you are joined by the same guests, so you are able to relax in the company of familiar faces. Plus you have the same waiter, who will get to know and provide for your specific needs.
Formal attire for traditional dining varies, depending on the cruise line, but generally it’s categorised as follows: Women wear cocktail / gowns or long dresses or a tailored suit Men are expected to wear suits and ties or a tuxedo. If required, many ships provide suits for hire
There are times when traditional dining is informal, in such cases smart casual is required: Women – skirts, dress or smart trousers; Men - trousers and collared shirts
Is traditional dining the only option?
A lot of ships now operate both a traditional dining 1st / 2nd sitting as well as a flexible dining option, by providing alternative dining venues which allows you to wear smart casual attire, choose the table and the times you dine. Some cruise lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Lines, have taken this a step further and replaced traditional dining with flexible and casual dining, in all its restaurants.
What are the times for evening meals?
The traditional dining option normally offers two sittings. The early or first sitting usually starts at 6.30pm, the late or second sitting usually start around 8.30pm. You can request your preferred time at booking stage, but this is not a guarantee, the sitting will be confirmed when you board your cruise ship.
With alternative dining venues, such as speciality restaurants, you can book whichever time you wish and this can be done when you arrive on board.
For cruise ships that offer a more flexible approach, advance booking is not always a requirement.
Are special dietary requirements catered for?
All our cruise lines partners provide meals that cater to most dietary needs, these include diabetic, gluten-free, lactose-free, kosher and halal.
Arranging such meals is easy, simply email your requirements to: admin@flexicruise. com, don’t forget to include your booking references (s).
Which meals do I have to pay for?
Generally meals taken as part of traditional dining, or in the main dining and buffet restaurants are included in your cruise holiday price. If you wish to dine at a speciality or private restaurant there will be a cover charge. Prices vary per cruise line (approx. £10 - £20), our cruise executives can give you details.
What is the policy on tipping?
The majority of cruise lines do encourage guests to tip, as a sign of appreciation for the service received from the crew. Each cruise line has their own guidelines on doing this, to give you an idea:
- You can pre-pay a set amount at the time of booking your cruise holiday Tips are automatically added to your onboard account, but you do have the option to amend if you so choose Some cruise lines offer tipping guideline amounts, but ultimately leave it to your discretion
Please check with your cruise executive, for more advice on this.
How do I pay for a purchase?
Generally, the cruise lines operate a ‘cashless system’. You simply register a credit card which will be used to create your onboard account, and all your purchases will be billed to your credit card. At the end of your cruise holiday you will receive a detailed statement of all purchases that you have been billed for.
At each of port of call you have the opportunity to hop ashore and explore the surrounding areas on a guided tour – it’s a fantastic way to see the highlights of the amazing destinations on your cruise itinerary.
Each cruise line has an extensive choice of excursions, and although transportation is provided, some walking will be involved, so be sure to pack comfy shoes. Please see the line’s website for full details of the excursions.
How do I book a shore excursion?
Our cruise executives can walk you through the various shore excursions available to your cruise holiday. FlexiCruise have access to excursions provided by all our partner cruise lines and also other specialist operators, often at a lower rate, just let us know which you prefer. And whilst you can book these on board your cruise ship, we recommend that you pre-book this, as spaces can be limited.
Are shore excursions compulsory?
These excursions have been planned to help you get the most of your land visits, but they are completely optional – you can choose to explore each port by yourselves if you prefer.
How much is a shore excursion?
The price of these depends on the content of the excursion, the destination and duration. Please check the relevant cruise line’s website for exact prices.
MISCONCEPTIONS FAQ’s
There’s only so much you can do on a cruise ship, won’t I get bored?
Many cruise ships are known as floating resorts – they have gone above and beyond to provide all types of entertainment and activities. From scaling a climbing wall and catching the latest flicks at an open air cinema at sea to bidding at an art auction; from shopping in a chic boutique and chilling in a whirlpool pod suspended above the ship to indulging in some ‘me time’ in a relaxing spa. Evenings offer fine dining, spectacular Broadway-style musicals, mesmerizing acrobatics, fabulous bars to catch up with new found friends and clubs to dance the nights away.
Plus, through careful planning with our cruise experts, you are assured that you will be on a cruise holiday which perfectly suits your needs.
How well can I get to know a destination whilst on a ship?
At each port of call you will have the opportunity to hop ashore and explore. Your chosen cruise line have carefully chosen a variety of shore excursions, to ensure that you get to know the fabulous destinations on your cruise itinerary just as well as any local.
Plus, on some cruises, this provides an alternative way to experience the sights and sounds, hustle and bustle of various destinations, in a way that is unique to a cruise ship.
I would love to go on a cruise but I get seasick
If you suffer with seasickness we recommend that you consult your doctor to discuss the medications / preventative measures you can follow, before you book a cruise holiday. In addition, the following tips may prove helpful
- Try to book one of the large and modern cruise ships, as these vessels generally have stabilisers to help minimize the ships movement Choose itineraries that avoid waters that are known to become rough at certain times of the year, or in general Alternatively book cruise itineraries that involve a lot of port calls and less time sailing
Am I too young for a cruise?
Not at all. The fantastic variety in cruise holiday itineraries and amazing destinations mean that you will find a cruise that is perfect for the young and the young at heart. By day you can enjoy the variety of daytime activities, e. g. adventurous rock climbing or hurtling down a zip wire, by night the ships come alive with their al fresco dining, and cocktail bars. Many cruise ships provide party cruises for an alternative way to celebrate a birthday or a hen & stag do. There’s a cruise out there for everyone, our cruise experts will help you find it.
Will cruising appeal to children?
Cruise holidays are made for kids! Packed with dawn-till-dusk fun - kids clubs / teenage zones, waterslides, outdoor movies and animations. Many cruise lines have facilities that are specifically geared towards children, a Disney cruise springs to mind. Your kids will lose themselves in the fantasy world of a Disney cruise, where they will literally hang out with their favourite, life-sized Disney character. Whilst the kids are on their adventure, take time to unwind by the pool, relax in the spa or watch the world float by.
PLANNING AND PREPARATION FAQ’s?
Do I need a passport? Yes, as you must check-in before boarding your cruise ship. British citizens must hold a ten-year passport for adults and five-year passport for children (0 - 15 years), valid for at least 6 months after your return date – click here for more details. For other nationals please check with your embassy for exact details. It is your responsibility to ensure that your documentation is in order before you travel.
Do I need a Visa?
Depending on your citizenship you may need to obtain a Visa for some or all of the destinations on your cruise holiday itinerary. Therefore please contact the embassies of these countries to enquire. We strongly recommend that you leave sufficient time prior to your cruise departure date to allow for this. It is your responsibility to ensure that your documentation is in order before you travel.
Do I need vaccinations / travel medication?
This all depends on which countries you will visit on your cruise holiday. To obtain the best in travel health advice we suggest that that you visit your GP and carefully go through the destinations included on your cruise itinerary. Alternatively you can do the same with a recommended travel advice clinic. Some vaccinations/travel medications may have to be taken a certain time in advance of travel, so please make your enquiries in good time. Vaccination / medical cards may need to be shown at scheduled ports of call so please bring these on your cruise holiday.
How much luggage can I take?
If you have flights included in your cruise holiday then the amount / weight of your luggage will be determined by the airline’s allowance. This is normally 20 kg maximum, plus hand luggage, however please check with your airline for exact details.
Some scheduled airlines have a more generous allowance and we will advise you at the time of the booking. When booking low cost flights please note that sometimes the luggage allowance is extra and needs to be added to the flight cost/booking.
If flights are not involved (e. g. your cruise departs from a UK port), you can take as much luggage as you wish, but do keep it to a weight that can be handled (usually no more than 30kg), and remember that wardrobe space may be limited.
What clothes should I pack?
Generally this will depend upon where in the world you’ll be voyaging on your cruise holiday. Handy tips include packing some warm wear as the temperature can dip at night, even in hot climates. Some destinations will require you to cover your arms and legs, so keep this in mind for your shore excursions, and also pack comfortable shoes for walks on your excursions. The majority of cruise lines have a dress code on board, these do vary so exact details will be included in your travel documents. But just to give you an idea:
- Daytime casual: Men / women - swimwear, sundresses, shorts, t-shirts. Shoes must be worn when lunching at a restaurant, you must cover up any swim wear Evening smart casual: Women – skirts, dress or smart trousers; Men - trousers and collared shirts Evening formal: Women – cocktail / long dresses or tailored suit; Men - suits and ties or tuxedos. The number of formal evenings varies depending on the duration, typically there is one on a 3 – 4 night cruise, two on a week cruise, three on a 10+ night cruise
Please note that there are some cruise lines that offer a more casual dress code in selected restaurants. Norwegian Cruise Lines has established casual dining in all its restaurants.
How do I get my luggage labels?
Once you have completed the online registration on your chosen cruise line’s website, you can request luggage labels. Please note that the amount of time you can request in advance does vary according to the cruise line you are travelling with. Each piece of luggage must be distinctly labelled with each guests’ name, the name of the cruise ship, cabin number and sailing date.
What time should I board my cruise ship?
Details of your boarding and sailing times are given on your cruise travel document. If you have not boarded by the time given you will not be permitted to sail. Please keep in mind that if you have not checked-in online, you will have to go through this process prior to your embarkation. Remember to bring your passport, especially if you’re travelling to destinations which require an entry Visa.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE FAQ’s
Are cruises good for those who are not fully mobile?
Many cruise lines have made provisions on their ships to cater for guests who have mobility challenges. Cabins (limited number) are available that have been especially adapted for wheel chair users, such as electric entrance door, wide doorways, lowered sink, roll-in showers. Adaptations in other areas of the ship may include widened corridors and ramps available on every floor.
It’s essential that full details are given at the time of booking, so that our cruise executives can choose a suitable cruise holiday. Also many cruise lines require that you travel with a companion who understands your needs and are able to assist you, (and the crew) to ensure you get the best from your cruise holiday.
If flights are involved please remember to also check if there any restrictions with your chosen airline.
Is a cruise good for single travellers?
By its social nature a cruise holiday is perfect for those travelling alone. A safe and friendly environment, you’ll meet people from all walks of life, as you sail to a host of amazing countries. With plenty of onboard events and activities, the ‘community spirit’ is great, but if you prefer some ‘me time’ that’s also ok. Many cruise ships offer single-room cabins and deals on twin cabins for sole use occupancy, so the supplement is limited.
Got a question? We’ve listed our most frequently asked ones below…