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FAQs

FAQs

How to book and pay for my cruise?

Directly on cruises.us websites : after having selected your itinerary, your departure date and the stateroom of your choice click on the "calculate your quote" button. By email, you will receive a document summarizing your request, for you and all accompanying passengers. To book your cruise, simply go to your online quote (information in your email) and click on the "book the cruise" button. A 30% deposit will be required and you can pay this amount via the following payment methods: Credit Card, American Express, Cheque, Holiday Cheques, Bank Transfer, Paypal. The balance of your cruise will have to be paid between 30 and 60 days before the departure date of your cruise (except for certain airlines).

By phone : to reach a cruise advisor call 04 22 13 61 75 (Monday to Friday from 9:00/21:00 - Saturday from 9:00/21:00). According to your expectations, our advisors will be able to propose the best offer and send you an order form to validate and return signed by fax or email : reservation@cruiseline.eu.
Once your order form has been received by our booking department, a verification of the elements will be made and the booking will be launched. As soon as your cruise is confirmed by the company, your advisor will contact you and you can proceed to the payment of your deposit representing 30% of the total amount of your cruise. The balance must be paid no more than 30 days before your departure date.

Travel books are sent by e-mail between 5 and 10 days before the date of travel. We would like to draw your attention to the fact that your passenger files, sent at the time of booking, must be filled in so that the books can be sent to you by the shipping companies.

When you receive your travel booklet, you will find your boarding tickets and labels in the same envelope. On the latter you will be asked to put your name, first name and stateroom number on it on the day of boarding, so that the company's staff can carry your luggage when you depart the boat.

What is included in the price of my cruise?

Your cruise will include full board in the main restaurants and hot drinks for breakfast. Depending on the packages offered, you may also benefit from the included drinks package, to consume a certain number of alcoholic drinks as well as a selection of wines during lunches and dinners. On the other hand, onboard activities for adults and children (some of which may be extra) and shows will be included in the price of your cruise. It should be noted that some airlines will provide free transfer from a designated airport to the port of departure. Do not hesitate to contact your cruise advisor to find out more about the proposed terms and conditions for your cruise.

Is it possible to book flights and/or after my cruise?

It is possible to book your return flight for your trip. Benefiting from preferential rates, the cruise advisors will be able to propose itineraries according to your port of departure and arrival. If you wish, you can also book a hotel night the day before your sea trip, in the city where your cruise departs. Do not hesitate to contact your cruise advisor so that he can propose the most suitable flights for your request.

What does the insurance you offer cover ?

Cruises.us offers two types of insurance that can meet your needs.

Cancellation Insurance will ensure that you are reimbursed for your trip outside the deductible with justified reasons.

Multi-risk insurance includes cancellation coverage as well as medical repatriation, on-site medical expenses, baggage and liability insurance.

To know all our insurance policies, do not hesitate to consult the information opposite :

http://www.cruise.us/insurance

Why choose cruises ?

Cruises.us is today the European leader in online cruise sales. Today, it is the only player on the market to offer such a wide range of services in terms of company diversity and number of departures. The cruise advisors directly trained by the companies and regularly carrying out visits on the ships will be able to assist you in your choice thanks to their experience and their valuable advice.

Unlike shipowners, cruises is able to offer you a variety of offers (more than 39 companies available) and adapted to your desires, your budget and your departure date.

Benefiting from a privileged position on the cruise market, cruises benefit from preferential rates to offer you a cruise at the best price.

For any further information, do not hesitate to contact one of our advisors on +33 04 22 13 61 75 (Monday to Friday from 9:00/21:00 - Saturday from 9:00/21:00).

Cabins and Rates

Which stateroom to choose? (typology - case of rough seas - number of people)?

In general, ships offer 4 types of passenger staterooms.

Interior stateroom, economical, comfortable it will be ideal for you to rest there.

Oceanview stateroom, more spacious it is equipped with a porthole allowing you to have a direct sea or ocean view.

Balcony stateroom, it offers a private outdoor space thanks to an individual balcony.

A comfortable and fully equipped suite stateroom, it has a spacious living space with several rooms and a large balcony.

Regardless of their category, all staterooms are equipped with a safe, a television, and air conditioning. In the bathroom, you will find towels, a hairdryer and many storage spaces.

The capacity of the staterooms is generally for 2 people. Nevertheless, thanks to extra beds or suspended beds, they can accommodate up to 4 people, especially those dedicated to families. The surface area of a stateroom can vary between 118 sq. ft. and 1722 sq. ft. depending on the category you have chosen. Each will have 110 and 220 V power supplies to meet the differences in standards between countries.

For people who are sensitive to seasickness, be aware that ships are now equipped with stabilizers to allow you optimal comfort during navigation. However, to minimize the impression of rolling, the staterooms located in the center of the vessel on the lower decks should be preferred. In case of need, medicines will be available at the reception or medical center of our ship.

What is a guaranteed stateroom?

Guarantee staterooms are set up by the shipowner when there is little availability on departure. The guarantee ensures you the chosen typology (Interior / Sea View / Balcony / Suite). However, this does not allow you to choose the location of your stateroom (deck, or specific stateroom number). It is the shipowners who automatically choose your stateroom. Your stateroom number will be given to you upon receipt of your travel booklet and will be considered as an assigned stateroom. At this time, you will not be able to change your stateroom number.

What is the difference between double base and single base rates?

All our prices include one price per person for double occupancy. If you wish to benefit from a stateroom for a single occupancy, it should be noted that the displayed rate (double base) will be increased from 30% to 100%, depending on the departure date and the desired airline.

Is it possible to book a cruise for a group?

It is quite possible to book a cruise for a group of friends, for a professional event or other. To do so, do not hesitate to fill in the form below so that we can best answer your request.

http://www.cruise.us/group

What services are not included in my cruise?

The best season will depend on the region you choose for your stay at sea. In general, passengers choose to discover the Mediterranean between April and October, while the Caribbean is more popular between November and April. The Polar Regions are generally visited during spring or summer for the Arctic or during these same southern seasons for the Antarctic region. Do not hesitate to contact your cruise advisor so that he can give you the best information possible, on the most suitable period to discover the desired geographical area.

What services are not included in my cruise?

For most companies, the price does not include stay excursions, spa access, casino and all personal purchases. On the other hand, at the end of your stay you will have to pay your stay package including the costs of hotel services.

For this purpose, it will be reasonable to plan an amount of 5 to 8 euros per day and per person before leaving your ship.

Identity papers and vaccinations

Do I need an identity card or passport to go on a cruise?

Depending on the destination chosen for your cruise, you will be asked for a valid identity document or passport during your stay at sea. Please note that if your identity papers are valid only at the time of booking, this will not be sufficient and will not allow you to board. Do not hesitate to contact your cruise advisor

Do I have to handle my visa application myself?

Some shipowners propose the introduction of visas before departure or on board ships for certain destinations. For further information regarding your specific request, please do not hesitate to contact your cruise agent.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go on a cruise in certain countries?

Ask your family doctor about the vaccinations needed for the geographical area where you will be travelling. Depending on the destination, some vaccines are recommended and even mandatory. The World Health Organization is able to provide you with the information required for each destination. Remember to carry out these vaccinations in good time before your departure date. In case of doubt, do not hesitate to contact your cruise agent.

LITHIUM BATTERY - GALAXY NOTE

Following a provisional and security decision of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) objects containing Lithium Ion batteries such as computers, tablets and cell phones will no longer be allowed and accepted in the hold.

As a result, these items will only be allowed to be carried in the cabin.

In addition, since October 2016, we remind you that some companies prohibit the transport in the cabin and in the hold of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 cell phones.
If you are a holder of this type of device, it is imperative that you inquire with your cruise advisor or the company before your departure.

Transportation and Tours

> Is the transfer to the port included in the price of my cruise ?

Some companies offer free transfers between the airport and the port especially for cruises with flights included or those departing from Genoa or Savona. For more information, do not hesitate to contact your cruise consultant.

> Is it possible to reserve a parking space at my departure port ?

In the same way as airports, most ports have "long-term" paid parking (on average 10 euros per day). It is possible to pre-book a place. Payment is made on site or by Internet in advance and some ports only accept cash. We hold at your disposal the access maps and contact information of most of the port parking lots, as well as the reservation forms if you wish to pre-book your places.

> Is it possible to book my excursions before my departure, with cruise ?

Excursions are organized according to the ship's stopover time. The excursion program is subject to change or cancellation at the last minute, depending on weather conditions or if the number of registrants is not sufficient. Your cruise agent or the customer service of cruise will inform you about the different excursions offered by the companies and the cruise you are taking. You will be able to register on board, with the reservation office, according to the available places. You can also, with some companies, anticipate and register before the ship's departure, with the cruise line you are traveling with.

Services cruise : Insurance and Package

> What are the insurance benefits offered by cruise ?

cruise offers you two types of insurance:
The Cancellation Insurance will assure you of the reimbursement of your trip without deductible with justified causes.

Multi-risk insurance includes cancellation coverage as well as medical repatriation, insurance of medical expenses on site, luggage and civil liability, if necessary.

You can find our full insurance policies by clicking on the link opposite :

/insurance

> What is a package cruise ?

The package cruisebrings together a set of services made available to you to ensure the best travel conditions. With preferential rates, our consultants will be able to assist you in booking flights to and from your cruise or any other hotel services included before and/or after your stay at sea.

Boarding and disembarkation procedure

How does a boarding process work?

When you arrive at the cruise terminal, you will check in. Your luggage will be checked and handled by the cruise company, which will drop it off at your stateroom door. For boarding, do not forget to bring your printed travel document, valid identity papers and the credit card that was registered at the time of your reservation. A bank imprint will be made with your agreement, before giving you your magnetic card to make any personal purchase on board.

How does a landing take place?

When disembarking, passengers will be asked to leave the boat according to the group to which they are attached. This information will be communicated to you in your travel document, before your disembarkation. On the other hand, you will be asked to position your luggage in front of your cabin door, the day before your disembarkation in order to be able to pick it up directly at the cruise terminal, the next day. Before leaving the boat, make sure you have paid your balance (tips, spa, additional services).

What happens if I am late to get on the boat?

In the case of late arrival at the boarding, at the departure of your cruise or during a stopover, the company has no obligation to wait for you. You are solely responsible for taking the necessary transportation to reach the next stopover or return to your place of residence. No refund will be considered.

Life on board

What language is spoken on board?

English is the common language spoken on board. However, several cruise lines offer a French-speaking welcome by providing passengers with announcements and menus in French. On the other hand, a French contact person is usually present to assist passengers in all procedures (excursions or other).

What dress code should I adopt during my cruise?

On board, it is advisable to dress properly and relaxed for the day. Some cruise lines recommend a more formal wardrobe for dinner. The captain's evening is also an opportunity for passengers to adopt a dress code.
During stopovers, remember to bring comfortable shoes and a jersey.
In order to better support the air-conditioned places do not forget to bring a light sweater or a shawl in your suitcase.
To know the company's dress code, do not hesitate to contact your cruise agent.

Is it possible to smoke on board?

On board the ship, you will be able to smoke only in the dedicated areas on the ship that will be equipped with ashtrays. It should be noted that there are no smoking staterooms and that you will be strictly prohibited from throwing cigarette butts overboard for safety reasons.

Are the ships wheelchair accessible?

In general, ship facilities are equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility. However, before boarding, do not hesitate to ask your advisor if the company provides wheelchairs for the stay on board.

Can pregnant women go on a cruise?

In general, pregnant women can travel on board the ship until the 24 th week of pregnancy. It should be noted that some companies may reserve the right to request a medical certificate.

During a stopover, can I get off the boat alone?

During a stopover, passengers who have booked an organised excursion with the company will disembark first.
Thereafter, other passengers will be invited to get off the ship, freely, at any time they wish.
However, it is the responsibility of passengers to report to the ship before the ship's departure time. No exception, in case of delay, can be made.
For some ports, an individual visa may be required to disembark. In case of doubt, do not hesitate to consult your cruise advisor.

Is it mandatory to get off the ship at each stopover?

There is no obligation for passengers to get off the ship. During the stopovers, passengers will be able to enjoy all the facilities of the boat.

On-board expenses

How to pay on board the boat?

During boarding a magnetic card will be given to you. With your agreement, the bank imprint will have been previously recorded on your magnetic card. The latter will allow you to pay all your expenses on board (spas, excursions or any other personal purchase). All these expenses will have to be paid at the end of your stay when your account is closed. For security reasons, cash circulation is not allowed on board most vessels

Is it possible to change money on board the boat?

Some companies have an exchange office to allow you to change money. However, this is still very rare! However, you will have the possibility to change money during your stopovers in the various exchange offices on land.
Feel free to contact your cruise advisor for any information you may require on this subject.

What will I have to pay on board (excursion, spa, wifi, service charges, drinks
excluding package)

Generally speaking, the price of your cruise includes full board in most of the ship's restaurants and a drinks package. Most of the activities on board are also included free of charge during your stay. However, it should be noted that Internet access on board, spa access, casino and excursions will remain your responsibility during your cruise. On some ships, specialized restaurants and some alcoholic beverages will remain at the passenger's discretion.
At the end of your cruise you will be asked to pay for your stay package, otherwise known as the service package to designate the remuneration of hotel services provided on board.
As an integral part of the cruise price, these fees cannot be paid only on board and not at the time of your reservation. An amount of 5 to 8 euros per day and per person is to be expected.

How to modify / cancel my reservation?

It is possible to cancel or modify your reservation, however, cancellation or modification fees may be charged depending on the departure date of your trip

To know the cancellation price conditions please refer to article 7 of the General Terms and Conditions of Sale (here)

For all modification or cancellation requests, we invite you to complete your request on the following page: http://www.cruise.us/espace-client.html
Don't forget to include your file number with your request.

Is it possible to change staterooms after my reservation?

It is only possible to modify your cabin if you have not benefited from last minute prices
It should be noted that for stateroom changes, some companies will charge you a modification fee.

Is it possible to modify, add or cancel my package after my reservation?

It is possible to modify your package, however cancellation or modification fees may be charged.
You can complete your request with your file number on your customer area.http://www.cruise.us/espace-client.html

Is it possible to add or cancel my insurance after my reservation?

After your reservation you will be able to add an insurance to your file. Variable delays in payment will have to be considered depending on the insurance taken out.
However, it cannot be cancelled after the subscription.

What are the repayment terms?

Following receipt of all the requested items, the refund period is 8 working days, when the file is complete.