FAQ - Destination Information

1. What is a port?
2. What is a tender?
3. There are so many itinerary choices. How do I pick one?
4. Are cruise itineraries subject to change?
5. How do I pay for purchases in port?
6. Do I have to get off of the ship at each port of call?
7. What can I do in port?
8. What is a shore excursion?

What is a port?

A port is the town or other location at which the ship will stop during the cruise. Most ships arrive in the morning and depart late afternoon or early evening.

What is a tender?

A tender is a small boat that is used to transport passengers ashore in ports where the ship is unable to dock directly. There is no charge for the tender. In some cases, wheelchair-bound passengers may experience challenges when trying to take a tender ashore. Tenders run continuously throughout the day so you can come and go as you please.

There are so many itinerary choices. How do I pick one?

Consider your interests before deciding on a destination. Do you like warm-weather destinations? Consider the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Hawaii, or the South Pacific. Are you interested in history? Think about Europe or the Mediterranean. Also consider how many days the ship spends at sea vs. in port. If you like a lot of activity and variety consider an itinerary with more days in port; if you enjoy spending time on the open ocean, consider an itinerary with more “at sea” days. CruiseNow.com gives you great information about many itineraries. Also our personal cruise guides are experts on many cruise destinations.

Are cruise itineraries subject to change?

Cruise lines attempt to follow published schedules as closely as possible, yet this is not always feasible. Regrettably, any cruise line reserves the right to change a scheduled itinerary without prior notice. Situations which may call for an itinerary change are strikes, lockouts, weather, riots, and mechanical difficulties, to name a few. Cruise lines are not held legally liable for any loss to guests by cancellation, advancement, deviation, substitution, or postponement. If an itinerary change is necessary, cruise lines may substitute another ship or port of call, and they will always attempt to keep passengers informed of changes. We at CruiseNow.com will also do our best to contact you if your itinerary has been changed in advance.

How do I pay for purchases in port?

In most ports, U.S. currency may be accepted or easily exchanged. It is best to bring cash in small denominations, since it is easier to get change for these bills. It is also advisable to carry a limited amount of cash, since it is irreplaceable if lost. Travelers checks and/or credit cards are also recommended. Exact conversions rates fluctuate on a daily basis and may differ, depending on whether you are converting cash with a local merchant, hotel, or bank. If you are in a port that does not take U.S. currency you can visit the purser’s desk on the ship to exchange currency or visit a local bank in port. Credit cards are normally the best bet.

Do I have to get off of the ship at each port of call?

No, you do not have to disembark at a Port of Call if you do not want to! Although the cruise lines will generally offer a more limited schedule of on-board activities when the ship is in port, you can relax at the pool or participate in one of the cruise line's organized activities. And, there's a good chance that spa appointments will be easier to come by on days when the ship is not at sea.

What can I do in port?

There's lots to do depending on your preference. Each port of call offers a unique experience. You can explore on your own, take the cruise line's organized shore excursions (check with the activities desk onboard or on-line before you go), browse the many shops, relax at the beach, or take in some historical sites. There is truly something for everyone. Our destination pages offer some suggestions and you can always contact a CruiseNow.com personal cruise guide for assistance.

What is a shore excursion?

Shore excursions are optional off-shore activities that are offered through the cruise line or separate tour operator for an additional fee. They often include transportation to the activity itself, a guide or guides familiar with the area or the particular activity, and sometimes a meal or drinks. Shore excursions can sometimes be reserved in advance of sailing, and they may also be purchased independently of the cruise line if you prefer. The CruiseNow.com site offers information on shore excursions or you can contact a CruiseNow.com personal cruise guide for more details.