Answers To The Top 10 Cruise Questions

For those who haven’t been on a cruise before, booking and embarking on your first cruise can be a daunting process. In this article some of the most commonly asked cruise questions are answered.

1 – Will I get sea sick on a cruise?

It is highly unlikely that you will get seasick whilst on a cruise as the majority of cruise ships are very well stabilised so you will hardly notice that they are moving. Thanks to radar equipment, most cruise ships are able to avoid bad-weather which causes sea conditions to change. However if you are concerned, you could visit your doctor before the cruise for some seasickness medication or take an over-the-counter remedy.

Cruise Ship with pool by kellinahandbasket

2 – What is included in the fare?

A cruise ship is similar to an ‘all inclusive holiday’ although what’s included varies between cruises. On the majority of cruises, your fare will cover your accommodation, standard dining, some shows and activities on board and some drinks. On more high-end cruises alcoholic drinks and snacks may also be included. Usually things like hair salon appointments, spa treatments and excursions are additional to the cost of your fare.

3 – What entertainment is on board?

Entertainment varies from ship to ship but you can expect to find a swimming pool, cinema, theatre, shops, a gym, and a spa on most large cruise ships. There may also be tennis courts, basketball courts, areas for golf practice and other sports.  There are usually also organised activities such as crafts, card playing and talks or lectures to keep you entertained too.

4 – What types of people will be on board?

People often expect to find only wealthy or retired people on cruises but this not the case at all. Cruise holidays are popular with honeymooners, young professionals and families as well as more mature people. These people are from all walks of life and have different hobbies, past-times and incomes. Some will be looking for the adventure of off-ship excursions offer whilst others will be looking to relax and unwind.

5 – What dining facilities are on board?

Cruise ships will offer a range of dining facilities including buffet style restaurants, fast food outlets and fine dining as well as more standard styles of restaurant. You can expect to find a wide range of cuisines including Italian, Chinese, French, British and English so there should be something to cater to your taste. There may also be coffee bars and ice cream parlours on board too.

Dining room in Cruise ship by Rennett Stowe

6 – What will my cabin be like?

The style of cabin you get depends on the ship you are on and the level of cabin you have chosen. Your cabin will have the bed option you have chosen along with amble space for your belongings and en suite bathroom facilities. All cabins tend to have a telephone, tea and coffee making facilities and a TV. Outside cabins tend to have private balconies too.

7 – Can I keep in touch with friends and family whilst on board?

Thanks to modern technology, you will easily be able to keep in touch with friends and family. Cabins are equipped with telephones and mobile signals are available when in port or near land. Most cruise ships also have wifi facilities and offer internet access too.

8 – Is cruising safe?

We have all heard of the ill-fated Titanic but thankfully safety protocols have come a long way since then.  Cruise ships are subject to rigorous rules and regulations in relation to staff and passenger safety with regular inspections taking place. You will also undertake a drill exercise within the first 24 hours on board a cruise ship to ensure that you know what to do in the event of an emergency. All cruise ships are fitted with enough life jackets and lifeboats for all people on board.

9 – What activities can I do whilst in ports?

Stopping in ports is one of the most exciting parts of a cruise. You will be able to experience organised excursions which can cover anything from seeing the local wildlife to enjoying the beaches or taking in the local attractions and culture.

10 – What should I pack?

What you should pack depends on the destination of your cruise. If you are cruising to somewhere warm like the Mediterranean, Caribbean or Bahamas, lightweight summer clothing will be needed whilst more all-weather clothing will be needed for a cruise to Alaska or Scandinavia. Some restaurants on board may have dress codes such as formal evening dress but the majority of restaurants do not. You also need to remember to pack suitable swimwear and leisure wear too.

John is a freelance travel writer from the UK.

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Category: Travel Tips