Are all ships fairly similar?
Actually, no. Cruise ships range from intimate yacht-like vessels to enormous mega-ships, meaning you could sail with fewer than 100 guests or more than 5,000. On board entertainment, activities, dining and accommodations also vary from ship to ship. We’ve partnered with several great cruise lines so that we can offer the best cruise ship for every type of cruiser.
Are there different classes of service?
Most of today's cruise ships provide one class of service for all guests. With the exception of a few exclusive suite villas on select ships, everyone can use all of the ship's facilities. The price of your cabin is based primarily on its size and location, not the service associated with it. Regardless of the category and cabin booked, you'll enjoy the same great service, menus and entertainment as everyone else on board.
Are there non-smoking areas?
Most of the space on any ship is non-smoking, but there are a few smoking sections in the public rooms and on deck. Almost all dining rooms, in fact, are completely smoke-free. If this is a concern of yours, remember to ask your cruise consultant about the smoking regulations of the ship you're interested in.
Are there meeting rooms on board?
Most large ships have conference centers or public rooms to offer as meeting spaces for private or corporate groups. Many even offer dedicated meeting facilities. To plan an event at sea or make meeting or incentive travel arrangements, contact our Events @ Sea department at 1-888-250-7803. They'll help you coordinate schedules and arrange for any special requirements or services.
Can we stay in touch with the outside world?
Of course! Almost all staterooms have TVs and satellite phones. Most ships provide cell service so you can even use your own cell phone, just be prepared for additional charges. While at sea, you can sometimes make calls to shore through the ship's radio officer. Many ships also provide wireless internet. The speeds won't blow you away, but you'll be able to check your e-mail and perform other basic internet activities.
Are there medical services on board?
Yes. Most ships provide round-the-clock medical care (operating under the American College of Emergency Physicians' guidelines). While cruise ships aren't exactly hospitals at sea, they can provide adequate care until guests can be transferred to an on shore facility. We recommend that all cruisers have medical insurance and pack extra supplies of all prescription medication. It's also smart to disclose any pre-existing medical conditions prior to cruising.
Do cruise lines provide laundry services?
Yes, most cruise ships offer laundry and dry-cleaning service while others have self-service laundromats. Check with your consultant to verify any costs associated with these services.
Will I get sea or motion sickness?
Probably not. Cruise ships have stabilizers to reduce motion and modern navigation equipment allows them to navigate around rough seas. There are also plenty of preventative medications that ease or prevent motion sickness.
How can I stay healthy on board?
Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer. It's also smart to pack extra supplies of your basic medication in case you ever feel a little under the weather. But you really shouldn't worry - cruise ships follow very stringent guidelines to maintain the healthiest possible shipboard environments.