Frequently asked questions

Each cruise line sets its own group size and group perks, and they differ by sailing. Ask about the terms for your sailing when you send your trip request.

No. You're the person bringing the group together. We plan the sailing with you and answer your questions. You recruit the group and keep them interested.

It depends on what matters most to you. We suggest booking 6 to 12 months ahead for the widest choice of cabins and itineraries. Cruise lines run promotions at different times of year and fares change by sailing, so ask us what is open for your dates.

For most cruises you need a valid passport (recommended for all international travel), your cruise documents (issued by the cruise line) and a credit card for your onboard account. Some closed-loop cruises (round trips from a US port) accept a birth certificate with a government-issued photo ID, but a passport is still recommended. Check the exact requirements with your cruise line and each destination country.

Source: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, retrieved 2026-10-23.

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Book popular shore excursions as soon as your cruise line opens them to you, because the best-known tours in busy ports can sell out. You can also book onboard, or explore a port on your own if you want more flexibility.

Pack comfortable walking shoes for shore days, swimwear, sunscreen, formal wear for dressy nights (if your line has them), casual daywear, a light jacket or sweater (ships can be cool indoors), medications, travel documents and a small day bag. Check your cruise line's dress code and the weather for your itinerary. Most ships offer laundry service.

Onboard purchases are cashless: they go on your cruise card, which is linked to a credit card. Bring some cash for tips (if not prepaid), purchases in port, independent excursions and taxis. US dollars are widely accepted in the Caribbean, but other regions may prefer local currency. Many ships have ATMs, and so do many ports.

Your fare typically covers your cabin, meals in the main dining room and buffet, most entertainment (shows, movies, music), the fitness center, pools and hot tubs, and kids clubs. Extra costs usually include specialty dining, alcohol, spa services, shore excursions, the casino, photos, internet and gratuities (sometimes prepaid).

Modern cruise ships have stabilizers that reduce motion. If you're still concerned, choose a cabin midship on a lower deck, ask your doctor about seasickness medication (some is also sold onboard), try acupressure bands, stay hydrated, get fresh air on deck, keep your eyes on the horizon and avoid reading in your cabin. Many people adjust within a day or two.

Yes, most cruise ships offer Wi-Fi, usually for an extra charge, and it can be slower than internet on land. You buy a package (by time or by data) from the cruise line.

Most ships have a main dining room with set or flexible dining times, a buffet (usually open long hours), specialty restaurants (extra fee), room service (free on some lines, charged on others) and casual cafes and grills. Cruise lines can accommodate dietary restrictions and food allergies if you tell them in advance.

Yes. Exploring a port on your own usually costs less and gives you more flexibility. The trade-off: if a transport delay makes you late, the ship won't wait. Cruise lines generally plan around their own excursions running late, but policies differ, so ask your line what it does. Research the port beforehand and keep track of the all-aboard time.

It varies by itinerary, typically 6 to 12 hours. The ship's daily schedule lists the arrival, departure and all-aboard times for each port. Plan excursions around them, leave time to get back to the ship, and aim to be back well before all-aboard.

For many families, yes. Most ships offer age-based kids clubs (some charge for certain hours or ages, so check your line), family entertainment, pools with water features, family dining and cabins that fit a family. Many lines run activities for toddlers through teens, and some ships have water parks, mini-golf and arcades. Kids club age requirements vary by cruise line, so check before you book.

Kids clubs are supervised by trained staff, which gives parents some adult time. Outside those programs, parents are responsible for their children, and pools and public areas require parental supervision. Many cruise lines offer ship phones or tracking devices for staying in touch with older kids.

Cruise ships have a medical center staffed by doctors and nurses for common illnesses and emergencies. Treatment is typically charged, so travel insurance with medical cover is worth having. A serious emergency may mean evacuation to the nearest port. Bring enough of any prescription medication, in its original containers.

Every passenger takes part in a safety drill (the muster drill) at the start of the cruise: the international rule is that it happens before or immediately on departure, and the cruise industry's own policy is before the ship leaves port. The crew is trained in emergency procedures. In an emergency, follow crew instructions. The captain has final authority over safety decisions.

Source: International Maritime Organization, SOLAS passenger muster rules (as summarized by Cruise & Ferry), retrieved 2026-10-23.