FAQs on Cruising

Why should I book a Cruise holiday?
Cruising is excellent value, so much is included in the cruise price: your accommodations, main meals, attentive service, fun activities and entertainment. In between visiting exciting ports of call and discovering new destinations, you can lounge by the pool, enjoy spa treatments, work out, leave your kids to play in the supervised kid's centre, take in a lecture or class, or a host of other activities. And perhaps best of all, you only have to unpack once!

When should I book?
You should book your cruise as early as you can. This will ensure you have the greatest choice available especially during holiday periods which can be very popular and sell out quickly

Do I need Travel Insurance?
Yes. As Australian Medicare and private health insurance will not cover you for any medical costs on board (even on cruises that do not visit foreign ports). It is therefore strongly recommended that you organise comprehensive travel insurance at the same time you pay your deposit.

Be sure to pack a copy of your policy with you in case you need to make a claim during your cruise.

Where can I find more information about passports, visas and vaccinations?

Passports
all passengers are required to have a valid passport for a cruise with an international destination. Find out more at www.passports.gov.au.

Visas
to obtain information about visa requirements please contact your travel agent, relevant consulate or embassy or an online visa service.

Vaccinations
some countries strictly enforce certain health requirements. Failure to do so may result in local authorities preventing passengers from going ashore. Before your trip contact your doctor or an approved public health travel advisory service such as the World Health Organisation (www.who.int), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Smart Traveller (www.smarttraveller.gov.au) for advice

What is included in the cruise price?
In most instances your cruise fare includes accommodation, main meals onboard ship (including 24-hour room service), onboard daytime activities, night-time entertainment including live stage shows. Cruising is good value because you'll know what most of your holiday will cost before you go. Generally your only extra expenses will be airfare, gratuities, drinks, optional shore excursions, and personal services such as spa and salon treatments. Each cruise line does vary with inclusions, so please check or ask for full details

What type of accommodations are found on a cruise ship?
Typically it is where your cabin is located onboard the ship will influence the price you pay, along with the type of cabin. For example, an Inside cabin on a lower deck is cheaper than Inside cabin on a higher deck.

There are generally 4 main types of accommodations on a cruise ship: inside staterooms, ocean-view staterooms, balcony staterooms and suites. Not all types are available on all ships.
No matter what type of cabin you choose, the standard of service, cleanliness and facilities are consistent throughout the whole ship.

Inside cabin, a cabin /stateroom that doesn't have a window. Typically, the cheapest option available. These are usually located on an interior hallway. Providing the same space and amenities as standard outside cabins, these are a frequent choice of cruisers on a limited budget.
Outside cabin, a cabin/stateroom that has a window and allows natural light into your cabin. Typically the same floor size as an inside cabin.
Balcony cabin, a cabin/stateroom with a private balcony. Typically the same floor size as an inside cabin (excluding the balcony).
Suites, a cabin/stateroom with a private balcony with many added features and increased cabin and balcony size. Suites are the most expensive accommodations, they're also the first to sell out, so it's important to reserve well in advance.

Obviously a Suite is the best cabin available, but this is not suitable for everyone's budget so the best option is to choose a cabin type that fits your budget. Then choose a cabin category that is located in a position on the ship that is suitable for you.

What does "Category Guarantee" mean?
When you make your cruise reservation, you will either be confirmed in a specific stateroom or offered a "category guarantee." This means the cruise line is unable to confirm a specific stateroom in the category you wish to book and guarantees you will be assigned a stateroom in that category, or a higher category at no additional cost. You will be advised of your stateroom prior to sailing, possibly in advance or at the pier upon check-in. Either way, you are assured accommodations on the cruise.

Onboard Dining
Typically for breakfast, lunch and dinner there is an a la carte option (order from a menu) or a buffet option. There is so much choice available, and food is excellent. However, your cruise doesn't always just include these 3 main meals. You can in fact eat non-stop for 24 hours a day if you would like. Also most cruise lines offer specialty dining as an alternative option to the main restaurants. There is typically a small cover charge for this, but the food is well worth it, and the specialty restaurants are normally smaller and more intimate than the main restaurants so they make for a great place to celebrate a special occasion.

How do I pay on board?
All shipboard expenses are charged to your on board account and can be settled at the conclusion of your cruise with cash, travellers cheques or credit card (it is best to check the payment options with your cruise line before departing).

What about tipping?
Tipping is customary as a thank you for the excellent service provided on board. You can usually organise to have a nominated amount deducted from your on board account daily. Sometimes gratuities are included in your cruise fare.

How do I find out about shore excursions?
You should receive a shore excursion guide with your pre-cruise information pack.

Every ship has a "Shore Ex" desk with qualified staff who can advise you of different excursions available, what's best to do and generally help you with information on the particular region your itinerary is visiting.

Shore excursions can only be booked onboard your ship however some cruise lines allow you to pre-book and pay for excursions online. If there is a tour you really want to do them it is recommended to prebook it as popular tours do sell out.

Shore excursions are not compulsory, you are free to go ashore and return to the ship as many times as you like however visas maybe required for this. Please check this with the consulate for the countries you are visiting.

When you go ashore it is important to take note:
You must take your cruise I.D. card (ticket) as proof for re-embarking
The city or town you are visiting may not be close to the port where the ship is docked, cruise lines normally organise shuttle buses (at a minimal charge) throughout the day to and from the city centre
You must return to the ship at the stipulated time as the ship WILL NOT wait for late passengers.

If I am booking my own flights, what arrival and departure times are recommended?
It is best to ensure your flight arrives no later than four hours before your cruise departure time to allow enough time to travel to the cruise terminal and check in. If you are flying home on the same day you leave the cruise, ensure your flight departs no earlier than five hours for domestic flights, and no earlier than six hours for international flights, after your cruise arrives in port. This should allow enough time in case of unforeseen delays and help maintain a stress free holiday.

How much luggage can I bring?
There are no luggage restrictions on a cruise. However you need to consider that you need to store it in your cabin for your holiday. There is plenty of storage space in your cabin but if you are travelling in a quad cabin you may want to impose your own restrictions.

NB It is important to remember that airlines have different luggage allowances, so if you are flying either pre or post cruise then you may want to keep within their restrictions.

What should I pack?
First and foremost, dress for comfort. Daily life aboard ship and in ports of call is laid-back and casual. You are encouraged to wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable: sportswear, shorts, slacks, sundresses and so on. Footwear should include comfortable walking shoes for visits ashore and sandals or rubber-soled shoes for strolling on deck.

Do not let the idea of formalities put you off going on a cruise. Unless you are traveling on a 5 star + cruise ship, formal does not mean a tuxedo.

In the evening, ships vary as to dress. There are three types of "evenings" on board ? casual, smart casual and formal. On casual nights, sport shirts and slacks are suggested for men; sundresses or pants for women. On smart casual nights, dresses and pantsuits for women; jackets and ties for men. For formal nights, women should wear cocktail dresses; men should wear suits and ties or tuxedos (optional). But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. If you do want to dress to the nines, many ships offer tuxedo rental services. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions. Generally, three and four-night cruises consist of one formal night and two or three casual nights. Seven-night cruises include two formal nights, one smart casual night and four casual nights. Ten, 11 and 12-night cruises consist of two formal nights, three smart casual; all other nights are casual. 14 and 15 night cruises usually have three formal nights, four semi-formal nights and the remainder are casual. Again, these are guidelines and your evenings attire is left up to your discretion. In addition, most cruise lines offer alternative casual dining for anyone who may prefer not to dine in the main restaurant.

The entertainment doesn't stop with the nightly performances, each evening you will receive a daily newsletter detailing the following days events. This may include dance classes, arts and crafts, table tennis, live music, tournaments, trivia quizzes, recent release movies, and other deck games and deck parties. The great thing about doing a cruise is that you can do as much or as little as you like. Sit around the pool with a good book, or join in the many activities offered ? the choice is up to you.

What if I need to do laundry?
Most cruise ships have laundry and dry cleaning services and self serve launderettes on board. Charges apply. Check with your Cruise consultant who can source this information for you.

What type of electric sockets are used on board?
This will depend on where you are cruising and with which cruise line. Your travel documentation will advise you.

Can I smoke?
In the interest of other passengers, cruise ships are non-smoking except for designated outdoor areas.

However some will allow you to bring a few bottles of wine onboard which can drink at dinner (with a corkage fee) or in your cabin.

These restrictions were put in place to create a safer environment on board your cruise ship, where people drink within a controlled drinking environment.

Most cruise lines offer age-specific, supervised activities that will not only keep kids happy, occupied, and interested, but will also teach them a thing or two. Games, parties, treasure and scavenger hunts, talent shows, movies, arts and crafts, puppet shows, pool games, water slides, the list goes on. Children are usually grouped by age. You can expect to see three or four distinct "troops" from toddlers (around ages 3-4), juniors (ages 5-8), intermediates (ages 9-13), and teens (ages 14-17).

What's available for teens?
Ships these days offer some of the hippest stuff made just for teens. Teens like to mingle with others in their age groups and have a place they can claim as their own. Clubs, discos, computer labs, soda bars, coffee houses and DJ booths are just a few of the places they can hang. Plus, most will get into the same things that appeal to some of the adults onboard: hanging out at the pool, in-line skating, ice skating, miniature golf, arcade games, feature movies, rock-climbing walls etc.

What about cruising with infants?
If you are travelling with an infant(s), cruising is among the most convenient holiday options. Some ships offer private babysitting services for infants as young as three months. Often the sitter is a crew member working on their off-hours and with some experience babysitting. Most ships upon request provide cribs as well as high chairs and booster seats in the dining room. If you need to store or heat up some milk or formula, you'll find the onboard staff willing to assist.

Is there a doctor on board?
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully-equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency. Your prescription medication should be kept close at hand in your purse or carry-on bag rather than in your checked luggage. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of medication and transport it in the original container. It is also a good idea to carry a written list of your medications in case they are lost. The list should include the name of the drug, dosage, and times taken.

What if I have a medical condition, special diet or limited mobility?
If you have any condition that requires medical attention, medication or special treatment or are not fully mobile you should advise your travel agent at the time of booking. Passengers that require assistance should be accompanied by a personal carer. APT River Cruise ships have limited facilities for disabled people ? make sure you enquire about facilities before booking.

Will I get seasick?
Most ships are so big and well stabilized you can hardly tell you're moving, but if you do happen to pass through some rough water, any queasiness can usually be relieved by an over-the-counter medication. If you knowingly suffer from motion sickness prepare yourself by purchasing medication before you leave home. Medication and treatment are also likely to be available on board the ship.

How can I keep in touch with home?
Most cruise ships have on board phones and computers with internet access, as well as wireless connections to keep in touch by email and internet. Please note access is subject to satellite coverage and charges are higher than on land.

Can I use my mobile phone on board?
Mobile phone coverage may not be available in some regions throughout your cruise. Please check with your service provider regarding overseas coverage.

When can I expect my travel documents?
As long as you have provided all of your personal details, your tickets will be sent to you via mail or email 2-3 weeks prior to departure

What are the boarding procedures?
Generally, you will be allowed to board two or three hours before the ship sails. Keep in mind that you must be on the ship at least one hour before departure, and the gangway will be pulled thirty minutes before sailing.

Upon completion of check-in, you will receive a guest identification card. This card will serve as your identification on-board. It will also serve as your identification for security procedures when embarking and disembarking the ship and when making purchases on board.

As you walk up the gangway, a member of the cruise staff will welcome you aboard. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin shortly after it arrives at the ship. You carry nothing but your hand luggage. Once you are on board you are free to explore the ship. Refreshments are available during embarkation and most cruise lines offer a nice buffet lunch (depending on the departure time).

For any other queries please feel free to contact us on either: (03) 9654 4000 or TOLL FREE 1 800 063 594

Myths of cruising

Myth #1: Last Minute Means Greater Savings
There may have been a time when last minute cruises were a good deal. This was a result of supply and demand. Consumers are now more aware of the value of cruise vacations and the demand is at record highs. Individuals who wait until the last minute to book their cruise holiday often pay a much higher rate for their cruise fare and, more importantly, have the least selection to choose from for their cabin choice. Some destinations, like Alaska, are often sold out months to a year in advance. To secure your preferred cabin at the best price----book early!

Myth #2: Lowest Prices Equal Value
This is simply not true. Price is not the only element to consider when looking at value. With cruising, the lowest price often means the least desirable destinations and the worst accommodations. Many travel companies post lower-priced staterooms to attract customers without regard to how it may affect your cruise experience. Consult one of our Personal Cruise Experts on how to secure the best value for your holiday.

Myth #3: Shorter Cruises are Cheaper
It's not unusual for a four day cruise to be less expensive than a three day. This is because three-day itineraries usually operate over the weekend and four-days are mid-week. This can mean fewer guests and better prices. The same is true for longer itineraries. Pricing is based on demand. When demand is low, so are the prices. Our Cruise Experts can find the best value for you for your personal Cruise holiday.

Myth #4: You Can Book the Best Deals by Doing It Yourself
Doing it yourself is almost a guarantee that you'll pay too much. You may get lucky and find some deals but without industry knowledge you may not have enough information to compare prices. You may not have the epxterise to find out if it is truly the best bang for your buck. Pricing is easy to compare, but the value of each offer isn't as obvious. Advertised prices aren't always as "all-inclusive" as they seem. See Myth#5 for more details.

Myth #5: Ticket Price is Everything
The price of your cruise ticket is only one expense to consider. There are government and destination taxes and fees, air fare, transfers, drinks, pre- and/or post- night stays, tips and gratuities, wine, optional restaurants and activities, shore excursions and more to factor into the equation. Some cruise lines include some of these elements into their cruise fare, creating a much better value for a seemingly higher fare. Be sure you fully understand all the costs associated with your cruise package and don't be swayed by shiny offers and deals. Our Cruise experts are exactly the person you need to source your best value holiday cruise

Myth #6: All Cruises are Equal
While a cruise ship may seem to have a fairly standard layout, you'd be surprised at all the differences between cruise lines and their fleet. Some are geared toward a specific age group or interest. Some are considered luxury lines while others may be more family friendly. Our Personal Cruise Experts can assist you in finding the best fit for you.