Canadian Cruise Advisor

Cruise Advisors FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long are cruises?
    As long or short as you want.
  • Where can I go?
    Wherever you want! Cruises visit over 500 ports worldwide and practically every destination accessible by water.
  • How do I book a cruise?
    Just call our cruise advisors. These specialists will help you pick the cruise that fits your vacation schedule, tastes and budget.
  • Do I need a passport?
    Your cruise advisor strongly recommends that all travelers apply for or renew their passports as soon as possible. Government regulations are continually being modified and it is best to be prepared. Besides, a passport grants you unlimited cruise vacation options around the world!
  • What about tipping?
    A general rule of thumb is $3.50 - $5.00 per person per day for your cabin steward and dining room waiter and about half that for the dining room assistant. Other shipboard personnel can be tipped for special services or at your discretion. Some lines include an automatic gratuity in the price of your cruise and will advise you of that as well as the amount while other lines maintain a no tipping policy.
  • Can I get a special diet?
    Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate, low cholesterol, diabetic, or other diet preferences. This request should be made in advance, so be sure to advise your cruise advisor or travel agent when you book your cruise.
  • Can we celebrate a special occasion?
    Absolutely! Most cruise lines will even treat you to a complimentary cake and a chorus of “Happy Whatever” to honor the occasion. Your birthday or anniversary can be more festive with champagne, flowers or canapes. You can even arrange for a special private party. All you have to do is advise your cruise advisor or travel agent in advance.
  • Is motion discomfort a problem?
    Rarely. Popular cruise itineraries ply some of the calmest waters in the world. In addition, stabilizers on modern ships, availability of advance weather information, and development of effective preventative medications have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort.
  • Is there a charge for entertainment?
    On a cruise vacation, the entertainment is on the house. The shows are live, first-rate and all included in your cruise fare.
  • Can singles have fun on a cruise?
    Cruising is ideal for people traveling alone because it’s so easy to meet other people. In fact, most ships have parties for singles early in the cruise, so you can get to know other guests right away. Some ships even offer gentlemen hosts to be dance partners, dinner companions or a fourth at cards. Many ships also have single staterooms and others offer single rates for double staterooms. If you ask, many cruise lines will even find you a roommate so you can obtain the per person/double occupancy rate, saving you even more on a great vacation..
  • What should I pack?
    Pack like you would for any resort. Cruise vacations are casual by day, whether you're on the ship or ashore. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. As on shore, attire is dictated by occasion. At the Captain's Gala, for example, you'll probably want to wear something more formal, such as a dark suit, or cocktail dress; perhaps even a dinner jacket or gown.
  • Who should I see if I have questions that haven't been answered?
    Ask your cruise advisor click here