First Time Cruiser Information
Know Before You Go!
DOCUMENTATION NEEDED
Although not required, a valid U.S. passport is the best documentation needed to travel by ship. Apply for yours now. Do not wait last minute because it sometimes takes 2-3 months to process depending on how backed up the processing office is. Detailed information and how to apply for or renew your passport: http://travel.state.gov/passport.
For family reunion cruises, a passport is highly recommended since the entire family will be affected if something happens to a family member before or during the cruise.
In lieu of a passport, a government issued ID (such as driver’s license or military ID card) AND a certified birth certificate (not a photo copy) is required to board the ship. For children under 16, only a certified birth certificate is required if they do not have a passport. However, if your trip gets interrupted and you need to fly home due to an emergency, a passport is required in order to fly into the United States which is why most cruise lines require one now. Besides, it expedites the immigration process and is good for 10 years for adults and 5 years for kids.
A Parental Consent Form is required when minor children are not traveling with both parents. Failure to have this form may cause being denied boarding or being detained by U.S. Immigration. If a parent has sole-custody of a minor child or if the other parent is deceased, legal documentation proving sole-custody or death of the other parent is required. This is a U.S. Immigration issue and not a cruise line issue.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Accommodations
- Most meals (except for specialty restaurants)
- Non-carbonated drinks (such as coffee, tea, juice, milk)
- Onboard entertainment/activities, nightly shows
- Amenities (pools, hot tubs, fitness center, movie theater, disco, children’s center)
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Soft drinks, specialty non-carbonated drinks, and alcoholic beverages (beverage packages are available at an additional cost)
- Shore excursions (activities/tours on land)
- Selected services (Spa treatments, internet, etc.)
- Airfare and transportation to/from pier
- Parking at the pier
- Gratuities of $64.75/person (can be pre-paid) – this gratuity covers your cabin steward, head waiter, and assistant waiter for the entire length of the cruise. Gratuities for bartenders or other service staff is not included in the $48/person.
- Optional Travel Protection (based on age and total trip cost)
