Advice & Information

New to Cruising?

If you are anything like us, you will have heard an increasing number of friends, relatives and colleagues discussing cruising as an exciting holiday alternative. In the past cruising as a holiday appeared to only be the choice of the fairly mature who were more than fairly well off.

The huge increase in cruising and the introduction of more and more ships into the market has now opened this great experience up to everyone. The days of cruising being the preserve of the privileged few is long gone and no matter who you are (a family, romantic couple, party animal, culture vulture, sophisticated senior, adventurous single or fanatical bridge player) there is a perfect cruise waiting for you.

The ships are also more spacious, even more luxurious and ever more interesting places to be as the industry invests literally billions in creating these impressive floating resorts. They aim to provide everything that a land based resort has to offer, turning the journey into as much part of the holiday as the destinations themselves. In addition, whereas the land based resort holiday is traditionally centred on one location, a cruise holiday has an almost limitless choice of destinations and itineraries.

Of course there are many reasons why people choose to cruise rather than go on alternative land based resort holidays:

• It’s a hassle-free holiday

• It takes you away from it all

• You’ll never have the opportunity to be more pampered

• You can visit a broad geographical area in one trip

• A cruise offers huge variety in activities, dining and entertainment

• It’s an ideal place to make new friends

• It’s the perfect romantic holiday

• There’s a cruise to appeal to every taste

• A cruise is one of the safest ways to travel

• It represents fabulous value for money

However, it is no surprise that the popularity of ‘no fly’ cruising continues to grow as there are a number of factors in its favour that are particularly attractive to cruise virgins and experienced cruisers alike. 

‘No Fly’ Cruising

‘No fly’ cruising is the industry definition for cruises that depart from and return to a UK port. And currently about 40% of UK cruise passengers choose a no fly cruise. They are particularly popular with first time cruisers, but are also becoming increasingly popular with regular cruisers who find the convenience, flexibility, variety and value attractive.

In 2011 alone twenty-one Cruise Lines, operating 40 ships depart and return to UK ports on a total of 506 cruises. In 2012 this is set to rise even further as even more ships are scheduled to sail 'no fly' itineraries. So which one will be perfect for you?

‘No fly’ cruising is convenient

We live on an island and with no town more than 70 miles from the sea it is easy to get to one of the major ports. Even with the major sailings from the south coast the UK rail and road infrastructure makes getting to ports relatively easy and certainly considerably easier than flying abroad!

All of the major ports have invested in secure car parking facilities and all the major Cruise Lines make the transfer from car to ship as painless as possible.

It’s safe

The Cruise Lines have invested heavily in security to ensure the safety and comfort of their passengers and this has certainly been shown in recent surveys that compare cruises favourably against other forms of travel. But above all else Cruise Lines have an enviable safety record when compared to all other forms of transportation.

You don’t have to fly

Not unsurprisingly this is the most important reason as to why ‘no fly’ cruising is becoming increasingly popular. Airport delays, cost (including the increasing level and variety of departure and so called ‘green’ taxes), concerns over safety and worries over luggage all work in favour of ‘no fly’ cruising.

You don’t have to suffer airports.

Of course less time queuing and dealing with noisy departure lounges make cruises from the UK a perfect option for families where there are young children. The hassle free process of arriving at the departure port and boarding your ship are bound to keep you, but more importantly, the little ones happy; the perfect start for family cruises.

You don’t have to put up with ‘low cost’ service

With low cost airlines grabbing such a large slice of the market, most of us have experienced the misery of cramped seating, lack of customer service and ‘extra’ charges for everything from luggage to refreshments. A ‘no fly’ cruise avoids all of this ensuring that your holiday commences as soon as you reach your UK departure port.

There are no luggage limitations

Another reason why regular cruisers prefer to ‘no fly’ is that they are able to take as much luggage as they wish on board. After all, it’s pretty difficult to get all your packing into one bag of less than 20kg at the best of times. If you are embarking on a longer cruise the restriction on weight becomes a pressing (and potentially expensive) issue if you have to pass through airport check-ins. Each Cruise Line has a slightly different policy (and you will have to make sure that each single item of luggage weighs no more than 24kgs for health and safety reasons), but as a guide up to 90kg is generally perfectly acceptable!

You only go through security once

On all foreign holiday and fly cruises you are obliged to go through airport security up to four times (twice on the way out and twice on the way back). On a cruise this only happens once, at your departure port in the UK, cutting down on aggravation, stress and queuing!

Your holiday starts immediately

At your UK departure port your luggage is generally taken from you where you park or as you enter the departure hall – you then go through security and passport control and only see your luggage again in your cabin. And once onboard ship your holiday begins immediately because on a cruise your destination is just another stage in your itinerary, your journey is all part of the holiday by design.

Your holiday is the same length as the cruise duration

If you book a 7 day ‘no fly’ cruise you arrive at the UK port on your first day and you arrive back to the UK on your last day, maximising your holiday time.

Unlike ‘fly’ cruises, you do not have to factor in travel time to an airport, check-in times, flight time, time-zone changes and extra time for potential delays that, without taking into consideration, could see you arrive at your port of departure to see your ship sailing off into the horizon. And in such a circumstance be under no illusions, it is you who is responsible for the costs of getting to the next port of call in order to join your cruise. So to ensure that this eventuality does not happen many fly cruises recommend that you arrive in your city of departure the day before your cruise departs, adding further hotel costs to your holiday expenditure.

You sail with like minded passengers

On a ‘no fly’ cruise the vast majority of your fellow cruisers will be British. The cruises are designed to appeal to the culinary and cultural tastes of British citizens, so you will be sailing with fellow travellers who are likely to have shared values and interests to those of your own.

It’s great value for money

With cruises from the UK you start your holiday the moment you board the ship, giving you even more time to enjoy your holiday. And without the cost of flights to take into consideration the value for money of a ‘no fly’ cruise stands out.

When you are looking at a ‘no fly’ cruise for the first time you need to take into consideration all of the costs of an alternative holiday option when making a value comparison. Then, when comparing, you will see that a ‘no fly’ cruising holiday represents a superb value for money option.

Life on board

Life on board your cruise ship will depend on the Cruise Line, ship size, itinerary and style of cruise you have chosen. There are cruises designed to suit virtually every interest and personal preference.

Are all ships fairly similar?

Size does matter. Cruise ships range from intimate and yacht-like vessels catering for up to 100 passengers to ships stretching longer than three football fields where up to 4,900 passengers are on board. The facilities on board will also vary from ship to ship; you can enjoy atmospheres ranging from casual to formal, contemporary to classic. Enjoy the endless activities offered on a contemporary resort-style cruise from climbing walls and ice rinks to smaller ships where you have more of a personal and relaxed atmosphere.

Are there different classes of service?

Most cruise ships today are “one-class” where everyone can use all of the ship's facilities. The price is primarily based on the cabin size and location. Regardless of the category you book, you'll enjoy the same menus, activities and entertainment as everyone else on board.

Cabin types

There are several different grades of cabin on board cruise ships and this is the main factor that determines the cost of the cruise. All cabins have a separate bathroom with shower washbasin and toilet. Higher cabin grades normally have a full size bath mini bar fridge and personal safe. All cabin grades have supplies of soap, shampoo, conditioner and towels.

A basic guideline for cabin types:

Interior cabins

This is the standard cabin and normally what the lowest (often published) cruise fare is based on. The cabins are situated on the inside of the ship so you have no windows or port holes for natural light. The cabin can be quite compact but has sufficient space for bed and separate bathroom with shower. These cabins are not suitable if you feel uncomfortable with no natural light.

Outside cabins

These are usually slightly bigger than inside cabins but will either have a port hole or a window. Some will have a shower in the bathroom while some will have a bathtub.

Superior outside cabins have a picture window and a bathtub in the bathroom, you can also get junior suites/ deluxe suites which will be larger in size and have a separate bedroom and sitting area.

Balcony cabins

There are several types of cabins with a Balcony, superior suites, mini suites, marquee suite, deluxe suite, premier suites and many more. They differ in size, facilities, size of balconies and location of suite.

Suites are obviously the most luxurious and spacious and most come with butler service, plus a lounge or sitting room separated from the bedroom. On more modern recently built ships balcony cabins account for 60% – 80% of all the ship’s accommodation.

The benefit with balcony cabins is you can sit and enjoy the view or even have dinner arranged on the balcony. Some can be small and can’t accommodate two chairs they may also only be separated from the adjacent cabin’s balcony by a full floor to ceiling screen, so are not as private as they could be.

You also have to consider the location of balcony cabins on the ship; if on the bow side they may face forward and can be subject to wind where stern balconies are more protected. Other balconies are covered providing shade and privacy while others maybe open to the weather but perfect for sunbathing.

Some ships also have French balconies which have doors to open for fresh air and a great sea view, but you are unable to sit on them.

Location of cabins

The higher the deck the higher the cabin price normally is. You also have to consider the location of the cabin on the ship as this will make a difference.

If you are looking for a quiet location then make sure it is not above the late bars and disco.

If you have difficulty with walking distances then ask for a cabin mid ship as this will be nearer the lifts. Mid ship cabins are also normally more stable, less noisy and vibration free. Ships powered by diesel (which is most modern ships) create and transmit some vibration, especially at the stern during manoeuvring.

Cabins situated at the front of the ships can be slightly crescent-shaped and exposed to early morning noise such as the anchor being dropped at ports where the ship is too big to dock. Lower decks can be subject to heat and closer to any engine noise.

Finding your feet (especially on large ships)

When you first arrive in your cabin after embarkation your luggage will probably not be delivered for a few hours, so you could take this opportunity to find your bearings on board the ship. You will have been given a detailed map of the ship when you checked in so using this you should start to walk around the ship to find your bearings and the location of different decks, restaurants, bars, entertainment, pools etc. It is also wise to find the quickest route to your cabin as the ships are vast in size and you will probably walk endless miles in the first few days finding your way around the ship.

What are the restrictions on luggage?

One of the benefits of ‘No Fly Cruising’ is you can take as much luggage as you like. But you do need to consider the storage space in the cabin as it may be more restricted than the amount of luggage you have packed!!

What should you pack?

Again this can depend on the cruise ship and the destinations. Many Cruise Lines now feature a more relaxed and casual approach to dress throughout the cruise - while on others, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun.

Cruise holidays are generally casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore, but in the evening ships dress codes may vary.

As a guideline short 3-4 night cruises will have one formal, one informal and one or two casual nights. One week cruises will have one or two formal, two informal then two or three casual nights. On two week cruises there will generally be two to four formal nights, four to six informal and four or five casual nights.

Formal evenings on ships can be grand but you don’t need to rush out to buy Black Tie, a dark suit is perfectly acceptable on most ships.

What about meal times?

During the day, there are many different places to eat - in the formal dining room, on deck, in a pizzeria or at an espresso bar to name just a few.

In the evenings some ships offer ‘flexible’ eating and ‘open’ seating which means you can eat and sit where you want within the opening hours of the dining room. On ships without ‘open seating’, unless you are with your family or a group, you will be seated next to strangers. The Cruise Lines are geared to accommodate each guest's wishes, and it is possible to request a table for two or four. In the unlikely event that you do wish to change tablemates, speak with the maitre d', who will make every effort to seat you with more compatible dining companions.

Depending on the size of the ship you may have one, two or four sittings as dining rooms cannot accommodate all guests at one time. More traditional ships have two sittings in their formal dining rooms, which differ only by time: typically 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine early or late and then tell your ‘no fly’ cruise specialist your preference when you book your cruise. Experienced cruisers say they prefer sitting at a table with several other diners; some lifelong friendships have been made this way.

Alternative dining might also be available but this would incur an extra cost of approximately £5-£35 per person. Alternative dining offers a more intimate and quieter dining experience with a good ambience and choice of menu. However be aware that as well as the initial additional meal and wine cost there will also be an extra cover charge, which soon mounts up during the duration of the cruise.

More and more Cruise Lines are opening up their informal lido areas to evening dining where the dress and dishes are always casual. You can even eat out under the stars and a large number of ships offer romantic in-cabin dinners. The choice is yours!

Special diets

Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate, low cholesterol, Kosher, or other dietary preferences. However this request must be made in advance so be sure to advise your ‘no fly’ cruise specialist when you book your cruise.

Drink prices

The costs of drinks on board are normally lower than on land since ships have access to duty free alcohol. Dining rooms normally have extensive and reasonably priced wine lists but some Cruise Lines will also add a cover charge of approximately 15% to the bill.

Some ships also sell duty free wine and alcohol which you can drink in your cabin; however this may not be taken into the dining or public areas. This protects the bar sales which is a substantial source of onboard revenue. When purchasing duty free alcohol either on the ship or in port this will be stored for you until the last day of the cruise then returned to you prior to disembarkation.

Are there no-smoking areas?

Virtually all ships have smoking and non-smoking sections in some public rooms and on deck. In fact many dining rooms and even some entire ships are now totally smoke-free, reflecting passenger preferences. Some Cruise Lines permit smoking in cabins but other companies may only allow this in cabins with balconies.

What's there to do at night?

When the stars come out, a cruise ship really comes alive. There's dancing, live entertainment, nightclubs and lounges, feature films and parties. Most ships also have casinos. What's more, there are many special events like the Captain's Cocktail Party, Passenger Talent Night and it’s all free. The shows are live, films first-rate and all included in your cruise fare.

On a cruise, you do what you want when you want. You can do everything or do absolutely nothing. It's your holiday!

Learning experiences and special educational programmes

Many Cruise Lines feature an extensive programme of on-board enrichment seminars hosted by distinguished guest experts. In addition to lectures highlighting the history and sights of ports you will be visiting.

Some cruise companies specialise in Adventure and Expeditions. These ships tend to be smaller and less formal than the bigger cruise ships and the itineraries and programmes are very specific. They are aimed at experienced travellers who prefer an educational environment and do not want all the activities and entertainment typical of mainstream cruises.

Other facilities on board

All large cruise ships have a wide range of day time activities ranging from fully equipped fitness gyms, exercise and dance classes for the more active passengers to spa’s massages and body treatments, steam rooms and saunas for the passengers who want to unwind and relax. Not forgetting the onboard swimming pools and decks where you can top up your tan or catch up on your reading.

What about tipping?

Tipping is a matter of individual preference and most cruise companies now even publish guidelines in the brochures. A general rule is to plan for a total of approximately £4 - £7 per person per day. Some cruise companies will automatically add gratuities to your onboard account which can be adjusted if required when the account is paid at the end of the cruise. Gratuities are sometimes included in the cruise fare normally those at the luxury end of the market, where no tipping is permitted – at least that is the theory!

Extra charges onboard

Although all the entertainment and food is included in the price you do have to be aware of some additional expenses that you need to budget for as these could soon add up to be paid on your final account.

Shore excursions are bookable prior to your cruise and also when you have boarded and the price will vary depending on the excursion. Drinks on board during the cruise, although they are reasonably priced will mount up and also remember 10–15% can be added for wine ordered in the restaurant.

Additional costs could include laundry, spa treatments, alternative dining, internet access, medical costs and duty free shopping both on board and in destinations.

Are there medical services onboard?

Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a medical facility and health care professionals on staff which will normally consist of a doctor and two nurses who would be able to handle almost any emergency.

One of the most common concerns for passenger’s especially first time cruisers is suffering from sea sickness!

Today’s ships have stabilizers which should reduce the effects of sea sickness and as a result less than 3% of passengers suffer. A good tip to try if you notice the first movement of the ship is to walk back and forth on the deck. You will start to find your knees, your natural form of stabilizers which will start to get their feel of balance. This is known as getting your ‘sea legs’!

Alternatively you could try pressure pads that can be purchased from a pharmacy or chewing ginger tablets. As a last resort, the ship’s Doctor can prescribe a more powerful remedy; however that would be at your own expense.

Communication with the outside world
Most ships have a daily newsletter with news, headlines, selected stock quotes and sports results and many cabins are equipped with televisions and have satellite or cellular telephones. New ships all have the technology to enable passengers to use their own personal mobile telephone with the cost being charged to the mobile account. But beware this can be expensive. The best and cheapest way to keep in touch with family and friends is to use e-mail as most ships have an internet cafe. Alternatively send e-mails while in port as this would be a lot less expensive than onboard.

Shopping onboard / Duty free

Shops onboard cruise ships are duty free and competitive in price. A variety of shops can be found such as jewellery, gifts, accessories, fragrance & cosmetics, fashion, necessities and alcohol. So whatever you have forgotten to pack or if you want to treat yourself you will be able to purchase while onboard. Be aware though that the shops onboard are normally closed while in port due to international customs regulations.

Certain cruise companies may allow you to bring a bottle of wine or champagne to drink in your cabin, however it would not be permitted to be taken into dining areas and any public areas to drink. All alcohol purchased while onboard or from a port will be kept for you and returned prior to disembarkation.

Paying your onboard account

It is now normal for all Cruise Lines to operate cash-free cruising so all purchases and expenditure will be added to your personal account. When you board the ship an imprint of a credit card will be taken to ensure you can cover any onboard expenses. Throughout the cruise you sign for everything. Some cruise ships have the facility to check the balance of your account on the television in the cabin. All cruise ships will deliver a detailed statement to your cabin the day prior to disembarkation. Some Cruise Lines may discontinue their ‘cashless’ system on the last day of the cruise, some may also add a currency conversion service charge to your credit card if not in the same currency as the Cruise Line.

Getting the Best Deal on your ‘No Fly’ Cruise Holiday

One of the major problems in choosing a cruise at the moment is that there is a bewildering array of discounts and incentives, all seeming to offer outstanding value for money… for a limited time only!

Full page ads in all the major national newspapers offering specific cruises at introductory prices, early booking discounts, free flights, free upgrades, on-board spend, group discounts, late availability with unbelievable prices and more.

It can be confusing and even when you’ve paid for your cruise you can sometimes feel as though you can never be sure that you’ve got the best deal.

Essentially this confusion and seemingly constant discounting has arisen because of the massive increase in cabins available with the new ships coming on line in the last ten years. A cabin is the ultimate perishable commodity in that once the ship sails what was worth £1,000 one day, becomes worthless the next. So Cruise Lines look at an individual cruise and decide what they would like the average price that each customer needs to pay to be, and they will then use a number of marketing and pricing mechanisms to achieve that average.

They want to get a sizable percentage of customers to commit early and they will offer early booking discounts and loyalty incentives in order to achieve that. During the middle phase of the booking process the price will revert more towards a brochure price, with late availability discounts coming into play as the cruise departure date looms closer – with the level of those discounts varying depending on their success in filling that particular cruise up to that point (but beware, if they have been successful in marketing the cruise there may not be any availability at all).

At the end of the day, you have to choose a cruise that you want to go on - with the Cruise Line that appeals to you - on the ship that offers you the best overall array of facilities and style of cruise that suits your requirements. You can then look at the available itineraries and cruise durations to further filter your search. Then, and only then, are you able to look for the best price.

Remember, a bargain is not a bargain if you end up compromising on the holiday you want in order to secure a slightly better price.

5 Handy Hints to follow when booking your ‘no fly’ cruise

1.                  Find a ‘no fly’ cruise specialist

The importance here is to find a specialist who knows the market – so if you are looking at a ‘no fly’ cruise then a consultant that specialises in ‘no fly’ cruising would be the first place to start.

2. Narrow down your choice

Use your ‘no fly’ cruise specialist’s knowledge to narrow down your potential shortlist of ideal cruises.

3. Check prices

Ask your ‘no fly’ cruise specialist to quote you the best available price or prices for the cruise(s) you have selected. Then it is always advisable to have an understanding of what prices are available through other sources – but remember, you only have a few hours at best to do this as Cruise Line’s no longer hold ‘options’ and so a price may only be valid for a very short period of time.

4. Push your specialist to better the best price available

If you have found a better price for the cruise that you wish to buy, then do go back to where you booked and ask whether they are able to match that price. But remember, if there is only a small difference you may be asking a specialist to forgo their commission to secure the sale – bear in mind that this may even affect the level of service that they can afford to give you in the long run.

5. Protect yourself

Make sure that the insurance you buy covers you for everything that you need; particularly cancellation protection. Your ‘‘no fly’’ cruise specialist will be able to advise you on this but the prices charged can vary widely so do a little bit of investigation. Above all, make sure that any policy you buy is underwritten by a well known company of repute and that you are truthful when declaring pre-existing medical conditions – if you need to make a claim even a slight variation to the conditions of the policy could end up being very expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

ABTA

There are many different ways of buying a cruise today so it is very important that you book your cruise from a company that is a member of ABTA.

ABTA ensures the money that you’ve paid for your cruise is safe if the travel company you’ve dealt with goes out of business. ABTA can also help if something goes wrong with your travel arrangements and you're unable to resolve the problem with your ABTA travel company.

Members of ABTA must adhere to a Code of Conduct which ensures you receive a high standard of service, fair terms of trading, and accurate information on issues such as passports and visas, health requirements and details of any alterations to your holiday.

Activities & facilities on board

This can vary depending on the Cruise Line but most ships have a wide selection of day time activities which range from fully equipped fitness gyms, exercise and dance classes some even have rock climbing walls. For the less active passengers there are spas, cookery classes as well as the decks where you can relax and read a good book. The activities are endless and you can do as much or as little as you choose.

Anniversaries and celebrations

All cruise ships have special celebration packs and gifts available to purchase to help you celebrate any special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary. On some cruise ships you can even get married by the Captain or renew your vows. Cruise Lines will vary as to what they offer onboard to help you celebrate your special occasion.

Cabins - inside v outside

An inside cabin means you have a cabin on the inside of the ship which has no window or port hole, whilst an outside cabin is on the outside of the ship so you will have a view outside or have a balcony.

Whatever cabin type you choose, all passengers have full use of all the facilities onboard the ship. Outside cabins and balcony cabins cost more than inside cabins and are usually larger in size.

What is a guaranteed cabin?

When you book the cruise the price you pay will depend on the category of cabin so this will be guaranteed. Some Cruise Lines will assign the actual cabin number at the time of booking while others will assign when you check in.

Crime

Crime can occur on ships just like anywhere else so take the same precautions as you would at home or on any other holiday. Don’t leave your room key and money on the lounge chair while you go to the bathroom, lock all valuables in the safe and lock your cabin. The number of cameras and security officers onboard has been increased. These cameras are monitored by security officials who can observe and react to any incidents which occur. When the ship is in dock you’ll be security checked whenever you disembark and return to the ship and passengers are normally given photo ID cards on check-in, which you must show to enter and exit the ship. Cruise Lines, ships and the ports are required by law to have appropriate security plans.

The deployment of security staff is usually discreet so you may never notice them, but there will be trained security personnel on board at all times. If you are victim of any crime you should report this to a crew or staff member immediately. Security personnel will then inform the appropriate authorities.

Disabled passengers

Most cruise ships are accessible for people with most types of disabilities. Ships built in the last 10 years will have the most up to date suites/cabins and accessible onboard facilities. When booking a cruise always ensure that the Cruise Line knows of any disability so they can book the most suitable cabin and arrange any special requirements for your cruise.

Dining options

This can vary from Cruise Line and ship. Some offer ‘flexible’ eating and ‘open’ seating which means you can eat and sit where you want within the opening hours of the dining room. Depending on the size of the ship you may have one, two or four sittings as dining rooms invariably cannot accommodate all passengers at one time. More traditional ships have two sittings in their formal dining rooms, which differ only by time: typically 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. To choose, just decide whether you prefer to dine early or late. Alternative dining may also be available but this would incur an extra cost.

Dress Code

As a general guideline cruise ships class formal for men as a Dinner Jacket or dark suit, with tie and for the ladies an evening gown or cocktail dress. But don't buy a Dinner Jacket just for the trip, even on the most formal of ships; a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions plus many ships offer Dinner Jacket rental services.

Informal for men is long trousers, a collared shirt and tie and for the ladies a dress or smart attire. Casual / relaxed for a man is long trousers with tie optional and for ladies a more casual dress or outfit.

Formal evenings

Formal evenings are all part of the fun of cruising, especially the Captain’s Cocktail Party. It is acceptable for gentleman to wear a dark suit instead of a Dinner Jacket and ladies to wear cocktail dresses.

Insurance

When choosing an insurance company to cover your travel and cancellation protection always pay close attention to the terms of the insurance, particularly in the areas of ‘pre-existing medical conditions’ and the level of cover for lost valuables. When taking out travel insurance make sure that it covers your particular needs and ensure that it is under-written by a reputable company.

Mobiles / Internet - Keeping in touch

New ships all have the technology to enable passengers to use their own personal mobile telephone with the cost being charged to the mobile account. But beware this can be expensive. Most ships will also have internet cafes so you can send e-mails; this option is a lot less expensive than calling from your mobile phone.

Norovirus

Norovirus is not a "cruise ship" only virus. It is associated more with cruise travel simply because health officials are required to track illnesses on ships (whereas they are not at hotels and resorts); therefore, when outbreaks are found they are reported more quickly at sea than on land. Cruise ships do everything possible to prevent an outbreak by enforcing strict hygiene rules with staff and food. Symptoms are nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea and typically last only 24 to 48 hours where you will be asked to stay in your cabin so the virus does not spread to other passengers.

Passports

If you are a British Citizen you will need to have 6 months validity on your passport after your date of return. Children will need their own passports. British Visitor Passports are no longer valid. British Subject passport holders’ requirements may differ so always check prior to travel and ensure you obtain all the necessary documentation as you could be refused travel without it.

Pregnancy

If your pregnancy is normal and healthy, cruising can make for a safe and relaxing holiday. Cruise Lines vary as to what stage of pregnancy they permit travel, but as a guideline if you are more than 23 - 28 weeks pregnant at any time during the cruise you would not be permitted to travel. You may need to produce a doctor’s certificate as proof. Always check with the specific Cruise Line before booking and check your health insurance policy to make sure you'll be covered.

Singles

Cruising is one of the very best holiday options for single people. Firstly there will be many like minded people on board. Secondly, you will find your dining companions will be single people also wishing to share the experience of the holiday. This is where friendships are made and throughout your cruise you could meet up with your new found friends in one of the many lounges or bars, on a sightseeing trip, by the pool or on one of the special single "get together" evenings. There is nothing to match a cruise for singles!

Smoking

Most ships have smoking and non-smoking sections in the public rooms and on deck. However, many dining rooms and even some entire ships are now totally smoke-free, reflecting passenger preferences. Some Cruise Lines permit smoking in cabins, but if they do most only allow this in cabins with balconies.

Special diets

Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate, low cholesterol, Kosher, or other dietary preferences. However this request must be made in advance so be sure to advise your ‘no fly’ cruise specialist when you book your cruise.

Terrorism 

Cruise ships have increased security against terrorism since September 11^th and currently all passengers’ bags are screened before they are allowed on the ship. Passengers’ names are checked against a terrorist watch list before arriving to board. Restricted areas are also better protected and secured. For example, the bridge is secured to prevent access by unauthorised personnel. The number of cameras and security officers has also increased onboard and are monitored by security officials who can observe and react to any incidents which may occur. Many Cruise Lines have hired more security officers to conduct foot patrols on the boat to keep an eye on things. These security officers are also responsible for checking and re-checking the documentation of passengers initially boarding and re-boarding after excursions.

Transport to and / or parking at your departure port

Parking your car is normally at the passenger’s expense and not included in the price of the cruise. Car parks in the ports are normally within walking distance of the passenger terminal, but if not a shuttle bus is normally provided. Ample parking spaces are available and there are allocated disabled spaces. The car park is a dedicated facility and is used only by cruise passengers so is secure. The car park is locked once the ship has departed and re-opened the day the ship arrives back in port.

Porters will be available to collect your luggage from the drop off point at the terminal and take it to your cabin for you. In some cases trolleys will be provided to help you take your luggage from your car to the drop off point. Please keep hold of your hand luggage, tickets and passport.

Please note that all vehicles are left at the owners’ risk.

Valuables

Most cruise ships have safes available in cabins to put all valuable items and documents. As with any type of holiday or at home, use common sense when in public areas and do not leave any personal belongings or valuables unattended.

What’s included in the price of my cruise?

What is included will depend on the cruise company you book with. As a general rule all the food and entertainment will be included in the fare, some may also include gratuities and others offer an all inclusive package which includes all your drinks. Port charges and taxes are also included in the fare.

What to pack

This will depend on the cruise ship and the itinerary. Some Cruise Lines offer a more relaxed and casual approach to dress throughout the cruise - while on others, formal dinners or parties are part of the fun.

Cruise holidays are generally casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore, but in the evening the ship’s dress codes may vary.

When booking check with your ‘no fly’ cruise specialist as to how many formal & informal nights there are so that you can pack accordingly.

Tips & gratuities

This can vary depending on the Cruise Line, some will include the gratuities in the price of the cruise so tips are not expected however this is still at the discretion of the passenger. Cruise ships who do not include gratuities will advise what the recommended daily amount is per passenger. Some will even add this to your onboard account.

Other suggestions to ensure a stress-free cruise

The most important things to decide is the right Cruise Line, ship size and itinerary - also consider the ship’s dining options and seating arrangements. If travelling as a family with children check what children’s facilities and activities are on board. Alternatively if you do not want to be surrounded by children check which operator offers adult only cruises. Before you travel, find out how many formal and casual nights there are onboard the cruise so you can plan your packing. Check your passport validity and make sure that any visas have been applied for in plenty of time.

When arriving on the ship get your bearings, familiarise yourself with the ship’s layout and your cabin location. Decide which excursions and Spa treatments you would like and book them at the beginning of the cruise so you are not disappointed if they get fully booked. Then just relax and enjoy the cruise doing as much or as little as you like...

Where to go for further information

No Fly Cruising.com

No Fly Cruising.com are the independent experts for No Fly Cruising, representing all Cruise Lines and Ships that offer 'no fly' itineraries.

The Passenger Shipping Association

Following the introduction of the Package Travel, Package Holiday Tours Regulations in 1992, the PSA set up a scheme to settle disputes between consumers and cruise and ferry operators out of court.  Conciliation is a free of charge service open to UK residents which provides them with an independent legal opinion.

Website:           www.the-psa.co.uk

Telephone:        0207 436 2449

Address:           1^st Floor, 41-42 Eastcastle Street, London W1W 8DU

Office hours:     09.00 hrs to 17.30 hrs, Monday to Friday

ABTA

The Association of British Travel Agents

Website:           www.abta.com

Address:           ABTA Ltd, 30 Park Street, London SE1 9EQ. 

Office hours:     09.00 hrs to 17.30 hrs, Monday to Friday. 

The Passport office

Website:           www.direct.gov.uk and www.fco.gov.uk

Email:               info@passport.gov.uk

Telephone:        Identity and Passport Service Advice line 0300 2220000

Office hours:     08.00hrs to 18.00hrs, Monday to Friday, and 09.00hrs to 17.30 hrs weekends

Visa Information

Home Office UK Border Agency

Website:           www.ukvisas.gov.uk

Telephone:        020 7035 4848

Address:           Direct Communications Unit, 2 Marsham Street, London SW1P 4DF

Office Hours:    09:00hrs to 17:00hrs, Monday to Friday

Inoculations

Contact your local GP or Medical Centre to check what inoculations you may need to visit countries on the cruise itinerary.