Table of Contents
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How
does a cruise compare to a resort vacation?
-
How
do I pay for my cruise?
-
What
if I get seasick?
-
How
about tipping?
-
Will
my children enjoy cruising?
-
How
do I know what ship or cruise line is right for me?
-
How
far in advance should I book my cruise?
How does a cruise compare to a resort
vacation?
There are cruise vacations to suit every
budget, from the cost-conscious to the most luxurious. Even more important,
a cruise offers the best travel value for your money. Your fare includes
all meals, your cabin, onboard daytime activities, nighttime parties and
entertainment. So for once, you'll know what your vacation will end up
costing you before you go. (Your only extra expenses will be drinks, optional
shore excursions, and personal services such as massage or hairstyling.)
How do I pay for my cruise?
Most cruise lines accept all major credit cards. If
you want to pay with cash...well they take that too. Deposits and payment
schedules vary by cruise line. Usually a deposit of between $100.00 and
$250.00 per person will be due at the time of booking. Full payment is
usually due 60 to 90 days before departure.
A new trend is for cruise lines to offer payment
plans that spread out your cruise payments of a longer period of time.
Currently, Princess Cruises and Windjammer Barefoot Cruises offer these
programs.
What if I get seasick?
One of the big fears of first time cruisers
is that their vacation will be spoiled by seasickness. While it is a remote
possibility, the vast majority don’t, particularly on a Caribbean cruise
where the water is usually as smooth as a large lake.
There are some over the counter medications
that help the majority of people through the acclimatization period of
the first few hours at sea. A new Sea Band (wristband) is available that
is based on the principle of acupressure. This band applies pressure to
the inside wrist. They are very effective in preventing seasickness.
In addition to precautionary medications
most of today’s modern ships are computer stabilized. This means a smoother
and more comfortable ride. In fact, many times you won’t even know you’re
on a moving vessel because the ride is so smooth.
How about tipping?
Tipping seems to cause more stress for
first time cruisers than just about anything else aboard ship. Remember,
tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is
to plan for about $2.50 to $3.50 per person per day for your room steward
and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. (A
few cruise lines include tipping in the price and will so inform you.)
Other ship board personnel can be tipped for special services at your discretion.
Guidelines for specific cruise lines can be found in their brochures. Plus,
once you get aboard ship there will be information on tipping available
in your stateroom.
Will my children enjoy cruising?
Children love to cruise!
Virtually all cruise lines have wonderful children’s
programs from early morning until late in the evening. In fact, most have
trained youth counselors and a multitude of activities. Both Premier (the
Big Red Boat), Carnival Cruise Lines, Royal Caribbean International, Princess,
Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Lines have outstanding children's
programs and baby-sitting is offered. From two-year-olds to teens and even
grandparents, a cruise vacation is an ideal family vacation. If mom and
dad want to see a show or do some gaming in the casino, the children are
in their own "clubs" or "camps." And if you are concerned if they are going
to enjoy themselves - don’t be. They'll love it!
How do I know what ship or cruise
line is right for me?
To a first-time cruiser, and even to
many veteran cruisers, the number of cruise lines, cruise ships and itineraries
is staggering. American Dream Cruises has provided reviews of many cruise
lines as a part of this web site. We feel very confident that these fine
cruise companies will provide to you, your family or your company a truly
wonderful experience.
You can choose from the budget (but
wonderful!) family cruise line of the Big Red Boat all the way up the scale
to the luxury of Silversea and Windstar - with all kinds of cruises in-between.
The most important question to ask
is what kind of experience do you want for your cruise vacation? With that
information we can assist you in making the best choice based on destination,
price and time available.
How
far in advance should I book my cruise?
Generally, the farther before a cruise you book
the better the rate and cabin availability. As the sailing date approaches
many of the most desirable cabins have already been taken. Additionally,
most cruise lines raise their rates as the ship fills and the departure
date approaches.
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Copyright ©1997 American Dream Cruises #50021. All rights reserved.
Revised: August
29, 1999.