Embarking on your first cruise holiday?

These cruise FAQ's will help to answer some of questions you may have. 

If you have a question specifically tailored to your cruise holiday, please dont hesitate to contact our travel experts for more information!

Q. What is included in my cruise? 

A full board cruise includes accommodation, all meals and drinks with meals, entertainment, taxes and port charges are included in the price.

Q. What is not included in my cruise?  

Tips, drinks (unless you have paid for an additional drinks package) dining supplements, shore excursions and spa and beauty treatments are not included in the price.

Q. How do I check in for my cruise?  

You can check in online prior to your departure. Or alternatively, you can check in at the port. It is recommended that you arrive at the port between 3-5 hours before departure. When you check-in, you will need to provide proof of I.D and you will set up your on-board account. You will generally be allowed to board 4-5 hours before the ship embarks.

Q. What is the difference between cabin types? 

There are generally four different cabin types on a cruise ship.

♦ Interior/Inside Cabin: Found on each floor, this cabin type is similar to a hotel room, but without a window.

♦ Outside/Oceanview Cabin: Also similar to a hotel room, but with a window that provides natural light.

♦ Balcony Cabin: Has a small private balcony with a table and chairs outside.

♦ Suite: There are a number of suites available depending on the cruise line, speak to our cruise experts on the types of suites available.

Q. Are there specific times for breakfast, lunch and dinner?

Depending on your cruise line, and whether the ship in at sea or in port, meal times can vary. Breakfast/ Brunch/Lunch are generally free seating in a buffet style restaurant. Dinner in specialty restaurants may require a fee and a reservation, and dinner in the main dining room generally has two sittings, one at 6.15pm and one at 8.30pm. Room service is available on most cruise lines 24/7, and there may be a small shop open on board 24/7 selling snacks. 

Q. What currency is used on board?

The currency can be € or $ depending on the cruise line that you are travelling on. Cruise ships are generally cashless, with everything that you purchase being added to your room. Cash is only used for tipping (in some cases, gratuity is added to the price of the cruise) and in some cases, when using the on board casino. It is recommended that you bring some cash for when you exit the ship and embark on excursions. There are ATM’s on board, but the fees when using them can be quite high.

Q. What language is spoke on board?

English is the working language on cruise ships, but there are many other languages spoken on board, due to the varying nationalities of employees on-board the ships.

Q. Will I get seasick? 

Cruise ships are fitted with stabilisers, to keep the ship steady in the event of uneven waters. Cruise ships also tend to sail in protected waters, so the sea is generally calm. If you are prone to motion sickness, bring some medication with you just in case!

Q. How to book a shore excursion?

You can book a shore excursion from our travel consultants here at J Barter Travel. Alternatively, you can book online from your cruise line’s website, using a reference code from your travel agent or on-board your ship. Shore excursions can be expensive, so it is worth doing your research. If it is an unfamiliar language and location, than a shore excursion may be the best option.

Q. Is there Wi-Fi on board?

There are designated Wi-Fi areas on board most ships, as well as the availability to purchase on board Wi-Fi packages. However, it is important to note that the signal may not be as consistent as it would be on land.

1.  If you are looking for a cruise that you can spend time both exploring and relaxing, than opt of a cruise that is longer than 7 days. Generally, a 7 day cruise stops at a port each day of the trip.

2.  Big cruise ships dock at the biggest ports. If you are looking to make the most of your cruise time, perhaps opt for a smaller cruise ship. If you are calling at a smaller port, passengers will be transferred via small boats to the shore, which is time consuming.

3.  Bring an adapter that is relevant to you. Sockets vary depending on the origin of the cruise ship. (US/UK/EU)

4.  If you are checking a bag, it may take a while to get to your room, so make sure to pack your day one essentials in your hand luggage, such as your swimwear!

• Aboard: Refers to being or doing something on board the ship.

• Embark: Boarding the ship.

• Disembark: Exiting the ship.

• Port Of Call: A port that the ship anchors at and passengers can disembark.

• Tender: A small boat that transports guests from the ship to the shore. This occurs when the ship is too large to dock in the harbour.

• Knots: Measure the speed of the ship.

• Shore Excursion: A trip off the ship at the port of call ( charges apply)

• Itinerary: refers to the schedule of ports and time spent at sea on your specific cruise.