If you are planing a cruise whether its your first or have cruised many times before, MSNBC has compiled 10 questions to ask before you book a cruise.
1. Are there discounts for groups?
Bottom line: Groups do have purchasing power. The standard discount is one free cruise fare for every 10 to 15 travelers, but sometimes cruise lines are willing to throw in perks such as a complimentary cocktail party or onboard credit.
2. Does the ship have traditional cruise dining, in which the passengers are told when, where, and with whom they'll be eating?
If so, request your time slot when you book your cruise and specify that your group must dine together.
3. Are there specialty restaurants?
If
you would like to have a nice meal together one night, make a
reservation as early as possible. Alternative restaurants are growing
in popularity and tend to fill up quickly. Also: Find out in advance if
a surcharge will be applied to the meal.
4. Do we need to worry about a dress code?
Some
cruise lines have a relaxed dress code during the day, some call for
"country-club casual" throughout the cruise, and others have formal
nights, when proper attire can range from fun cocktail dresses to
full-length formal gowns.
5. What types of official ID should we bring?
In
addition to your passport, some destinations require visas. Find out
what you'll need early, so you have time to apply for the proper
documentation.
6. What organized tours does the cruise line offer at each port?
Ships give passengers a range of onshore tour options, from leisurely bus tours
to thrilling zip-line excursions. If your group wants to go on any of
these, book early while there's still space for all of you. You can
also book tours independently or explore on your own. Either of those
options is usually cheaper, but know that getting back to the ship on
time is your responsibility. The captain will almost always wait if
you're on one of the tours the cruise line has arranged, but not
necessarily if you're on your own.
7. Does the cruise line offer
special rates for pre- and post-cruise hotel stays? Do these deals
include transfers to and from the ship?
Always find out
the hotel's rates on your own to make sure you're actually getting a
deal. Also, some hotels will let you park your car in their lots for
the duration of the cruise, saving you the fees for parking at the port.
8. Can we book transportation to and from the departure port through the cruise line?
Some
cruise lines offer package fares that include airline tickets. Lines
also have air/sea departments that will offer to book your tickets for
you. The service is convenient, but the price isn't always the best;
compare what it would cost if you bought the tickets on your own.
9. What's the policy on deposits and refunds?
Policies depend on the cruise line and the trip
length. A seven-night cruise usually requires a deposit of about $250;
the full amount is usually due 70 to 90 days before departure. Refund
rules vary, too, but most lines allow you to cancel with no penalty up
to the time when your final payment is due.
10. What's a fuel surcharge, and how much will I pay?
In
response to the rising cost of fuel, cruise lines now tack on a fuel
surcharge. It's usually per person, up to a certain number of people
per cabin, and per day (with a maximum amount). You pay it on top of
your cruise fare—and the cruise lines do reserve the right to increase
it at any time.
