Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

[Redacted01]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

It probably explain this in that link about, or it may not even be true anymore, but there is something you can get that is cheaper than a passport. The thing is it lets you go on the cruise and get and off the ship, but if you get stranded and have to fly back you are in for a lot of headaches.

Passport cards I think work in the Caribbean and may have been created just for this purpose. They don't work for flights though I believe. I just always went with a traditional passport.

[Guru03]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Go to Cruise Critic (a website). Always book online through the cruise line, and you probably want to book your airline tickets with the cruise line too. Arrive in the departure port a day or two early to prevent missing the ship, and use a traditional passport. Be sure to buy the most recent version of The Unofficial Guide to Cruises.

[AUChase]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

You will need a Passport, Dom.

It usually takes a few months to get one, might as well apply now anyways.

[kodiak]

You can get a passport card and be ok for round trip cruises that leave from a port in the US. However, if you were to miss the boarding time at any ports of call, you will be in for a world of headaches. Spend the extra money and get a normal passport, that way you have it and both are good for 10 years. Make sure the info you enter when booking matches up perfectly to your passport or passport card to minimize any potential headaches the day you are set to embark.

Once you find a cruise that you want, check different discount cruise websites to get the best deal. Also pay special attention to those that offer on board ship credit. You can use that credit for drinks, gratuity, etc. If financially affordable for you, get a stateroom with a balcony.

Most ports of call are usually only 6-8 hours, before the ship sets sail again. As you're viewing cruises, the times should be posted for each port. Keep in mind that you normally must be on board at least an hour before the ship is set to sail from each port. Depending on the length and destinations of certain ports, it's possible to have an overnight stay in port but they are less common.

If you book a cruise the is geared towards singles, try and get one that has days that are strictly at sea, meaning no stops at ports those days. More activities and chances to meet ladies on board. Certain ships have different options for dinners. Set time dining will seat you with the same people during the course of the cruise, while anytime dining will let you meet more people. Both have pros and cons.

Lastly, I recommend boarding the ship as early as possible on the 1st day of the cruise. While your room will not be ready most likely, the pools and certain dining areas will already be open so take advantage since you paid for it. Pack a small carry on with essential items since your checked luggage could take until 5-6PM to arrive at your stateroom. Keep in mind that you will also have about a 15 minute mandatory emergency drill before the ship sets sail.

[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

If you have interest in Carnival sign up for their emails. I'm not sure if they have these offers on their website, but it always seems like they are offering on board credit. Like any place you make reservations you can always try calling and see what they can offer. I was going to book one about two years ago and actually spoke with an agent back and forth for a couple of weeks. He did all he could to get me on board, but I just wasn't in a position to go.

May not hurt to try that guy, found his email - [email protected]

[jeremym480]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Would we need passports for the cruises or resorts?

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We just went on a cruise to Progresso and Cozumel in May of this year. We did NOT need a Passport. All you had to have to get back on the ship was your DL and Room Key Card. It wouldn't be a bad idea to bring a Passport if you already have one, but for that specific cruise it was not required. This may be on a cruise by cruise basis so you should check with the Cruise-line that you plan on using.

If you have any other questions just let me know.

[AUChase]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

When I went to Jamaica, we had to get a passport, so I guess it is based on the which line and where its going.

[TMagic]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Back to looking at cruises again...

Are there any websites or tips that you guys have in regards to booking one?

And is a balcony worth it?

[Cusefan]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Travel agent is your best route IMO...

If you can afford a balcony get one, nothing like waking up and having a cup of coffee on the ocean. Word of warning though, don't pass out on the balcony with your shirt or pants off, the sun poisoning is real and it sucks.

[TMagic]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Im black.

That still apply to me?

[dickey1331]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

When I went to Jamaica, we had to get a passport, so I guess it is based on the which line and where its going.

It depends what country it is.

[TMagic]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

It depends what country it is.

Good to know.

Anyone here been to or know about the Bahamas? If a passport is needed there?

[dickey1331]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Good to know.

Anyone here been to or know about the Bahamas? If a passport is needed there?

Are you leaving and coming back to the same port? If so then no you don't need a passport.

[RockinDaMike]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Get your passport! keep your options open too. I've already had 3 spontaneous trips in Asia in the last two years and it's best thing I ever did.

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[SuperBowlNachos]

Re: Looking To Book a Cruise...Any Suggestions?

Also if you happen to miss the boat for whatever reason getting back to America will be a lot smoother. You don't want to be stranded in another country with no passport.