In the Know: Traveling on a Cruise Vacation with Minors Not Your Own?

Sep 21st, 2012
by Alara.
1 comment

Are you traveling with minors not your own?

Well, it is no secret that kids just HAVE to bring their friends everywhere. I guess when you think your parents are totally un-cool the only thing that can save you from a family vacation is having your friend by your side.

I must praise you for bringing along the friends, or cousins, or any other child on your cruise vacation. I guess it is a smart move since the kids will entertain each other and you can relax and have your own fun — even if those activities are not cool enough for your kids.

The most important thing to know is what documentation you need to bring along with those minors you are awesome enough to bring along. This is very important, without the proper information the cruise line will deny boarding for that child.

  1. The first step is having a notarized letter from the minor’s parents/legal guardian stating you have permission to take their child outside the United States, authority to supervise the child and allow emergency medical treatment to be administered.
  2. All names should be present on the letter, as well as the specific ship and sail date. For most cruise lines this is the only information you need as a non-custodial parent. But, policies and procedures can change, so always confirm with your cruise guide.
  3. Along with the notarized letter, the child will also need proper travel documents: a passport or a certified copy of their birth certificate

If you are traveling with Disney Cruise Line you will need to fill out their Minor Authorization form. You can find this when you are completing your online check in at www.disneycruiseline.com.

Here is a great example permission letter you can complete and have notarized.

As always, have a wonderful cruise but just don’t forget to bring along this important information if you have a minor traveling with you that is not your child. You don’t want to wave good bye to the ship as it sails away!

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Posted in: Cruise Tips and Advice, Family Cruising, Frequently Asked Questions.
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Last Minute Bahamas Cruise Deal : 4 Nights this October for Only $109pp, Just $27/day!

Sep 19th, 2012
by Alara.
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Ahoy, mateys!

Why do pirates stink?

Because of their ARRRRrrrm pits!

Alrightey, all jokes aside, do we have a deal for ya. A last minute Bahamas cruise deal t’ be exact.

And that is fitting as today is ‘National Talk Like a Pirate Day’ – and the Bahamas were very popular with pirates, due to the numerous islands and islets with shoals and channels offering places to hide while waiting to plunder ships.

By 1700, Nassau was actually ruled by pirates, who chased off most of the law-abiding citizens. Blackbeard, real name Edward Teach, was by far the most infamous pirate who ever lived.

When Blackboard lived in Nassau, he was appointed magistrate of their ‘Privateers’ Republic’ and spent his time irritating the British Royal Navy. Finally in 1718, the British appointed a former privateer, Woodes Rogers, to be Royal Governor of Nassau and rid the island of pirates.

You can now experience the Bahamas colorful history with guided tours and exhibits regaling the tales of privateering that helped shape the captivating islands of the Bahamas.

 

Now, how about t’ deal?

Sail 4 nights on Royal Caribbean’s Monarch of the Seas for just 109 doubloons (dollars for all yer non-pirates)!

Aye, that’s right :: $109 per person for 4 nights of pampering, sand and sea.

Ahem, that is $27 a day to visit Nassau and CocoCay, Bahamas. You could spend more staying at home!

Plus, you can take yer pick from multiple dates this October :: October 1, 8, 15 or October 22, 29 ($129)

So what do ye say? Aye aye!

You’ll need t’ book smartly lads and lassies this deal won’t last!

 

Click right here to view dates and pricing or book online!

Questions? No problem! Just give one of our expert cruise guides a call at 800.243.1959 or email us.


About the Monarch of the Seas

Posted in: Bahamas Cruise, Cruise Line Private Islands, CruiseNow Promotions and Deals, Last Minute Cruises, Ways to Save on Your Cruise.
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You're Invited to Barbie's Party Cruise, Hosted by Royal Caribbean

Sep 13th, 2012
by Alara.
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With Disney Cruise Line’s debut in 1998, they have understandably dominated and perfected the youth experience at sea.

However, other cruise lines started to notice a trend. That trend?

The number of family cruisers grew almost 200 percent in the last 5 years.

Because of this shift, cruise lines are striving to offer more family friendly activities and amenities onboard for parents and their youngest passengers.

With this in mind, over the past 3 years we have seen the introduction of immersive youth ‘experiences’ onboard major cruise lines, such as the DreamWorks Experience with Royal Caribbean, and the Nickelodeon Experience with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Well, Royal Caribbean decided that in addition to their DreamWorks experience they would like to team up with Mattel and offer another branded and iconic host of activities. Pink activities. Fashion Activities. Girly Activities.

With the world’s most popular doll, to the world’s most innovative cruise line – this partnership brings you the all-new Barbie™ Premium Experience, the ultimate indulgence for Barbie enthusiasts.

Barbie goes from cruise ship, to MEGA cruise ship.

Not one for the ordinary, Barbie invites girls to see what happens with she becomes part of their cruise vacation. Girls age four to 11 enrolled in the cruise lines’ Adventure Ocean youth program can be a part of the complimentary aspects of the experience: Barbie Movie Night, Barbie Story Time and other complimentary themed activities, plus Barbie movies on their stateroom televisions.

Girls interested in convincing their parents to book the Barbie™ Premium Experience will be added to Barbie’s exclusive guest list and activities, highlights include:

  • A Barbie stateroom, adorned in the doll’s signature style and featuring keepsakes such as a Barbie doll and fashions, blanket and pillowcase, tote bag, toothbrush and toiletries bag. From the moment they step into their staterooms, girls will be drawn into Barbie’s distinct world of style – and of course, pink!
  • Tiaras & Teacups party, an invitation-only affair, featuring a whimsical palate of pink pastries and pink lemonade served on dainty dishes all while having fun learning tips on table etiquette.
  • Mermaid dance class where girls can shimmy and shake while learning the latest dance moves from the hit movie Barbie™ in a Mermaid Tale 2.
  • Fashion Designer workshop where girls can channel their inner fashion designer with Barbie inspiration boards and sketch materials. Girls also will have the chance to sketch and create their very own Barbie doll fashions.
  • Fashion Show where girls can dress up to walk a pink carpet to the admiration and applause of their family and friends. Girls also will have the chance to perform their amazing dance routine as well as display their Barbie fashion creation.

Barbie splashes onto the scene in January 2013 on select ships and rolling out to the remainder of the fleet by March 2013. The cost of the Barbie Premium Experience is $349.00. Contact your travel agent or cruise guide to book.

 

Posted in: Bahamas Cruise, Caribbean Cruises, Cruise Amenities and Entertainment, Cruise News, Cruise Videos, Cruise Youth Programs, Family Cruising, Special Cruise Packages.
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Before You Board: What Does a Carnival Cruise Ship Look Like?

Sep 10th, 2012
by Alara.
1 comment

A Carnival Cruise is perfect for families and fun-lovers of all ages, they are a great value for the money, and provide a wide assortment of entertainment and dining venues.

But, if you haven’t sailed with Carnival before, have you wondered what a Carnival Cruise ship actually looks like?

Well, our own John Keen hops onboard with Carnival to show you why their ships are penned the ‘Fun Ships’.

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Posted in: Alaska Cruises, Bahamas Cruise, Caribbean Cruises, Cruise Amenities and Entertainment, Cruise Ships, Cruise Videos, Family Cruising.
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Escape from the Everyday, Breakaway to the Sea with Norwegian's Upcoming Ship

Sep 5th, 2012
by Alara.
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When you go on vacation, you want to break free, cut yourself loose from the real world, escape – breakaway.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Norwegian Breakaway, promises to do just that – and we think she will fulfill that promise.

The largest ship (144,017-tons) to ever home-port in New York City year-round, she will depart on weekly 7-day cruises to Bermuda on May 12, 2013. Beginning in October of 2013 through April 2014, the Big Apple’s ship will offer sailings from Manhattan to the Bahamas and Florida as well as the Southern Caribbean.

Over the past year Norwegian Cruise Line has revealed and unveiled teasers providing insight into the ship’s groundbreaking design.

Just yesterday, Norwegian divulged its latest news, a partnership with one of America’s most popular living artists and a pop icon, Peter Max. He was commissioned by Norwegian to paint the hull, approximately 40,000 square feet, of the Norwegian Breakaway.  This is the first time Norwegian has ever asked a well-known artist to add artwork to one of its ships.

“Norwegian Breakaway is New York’s ship and this colorful artwork by Peter Max will make the ship an instant icon,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer.  “The Big Apple is known for its love of art and its many galleries – and now, Norwegian Breakaway becomes a floating piece of art that will cruise in and dock every Saturday on New York’s West Side.

The Norwegian Breakaway reflects the innovation of Norwegian’s brand along with the freedom and flexibility of the line’s signature Freestyle Cruising.

Previous releases gave us a look at the truly thrilling new features we can expect from their upcoming ship:

  • The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place – Encompassing 3 vibrant decks and a variety of indoor and outdoor dining and entertainment venues, this innovative complex at sea reconnects guests with the ocean.
  • The Waterfront is an experience similar to a stroll along an oceanfront boardwalk, eight decks above the water and worlds away from anything. Discover Ocean Blu, Celebrity Chef and Food Network star Geoffrey Zakarian’s first restaurant at sea, the Raw Bar, have a martini at Shaker’s Cocktail Bar with sunset views, or dine Oceanside in an Italian trattoria.
  • Norwegian Breakaway’s entertainment will include three Broadway shows: five-time Tony nominated ‘Rock of Ages’, the dance sensation ‘Burn the Floor’, and ‘Cirque Dreams and Dinner Jungle Fantasy’.  The famed comedy troupe The Second City, Howl at the Moon dueling pianos, and New York’s own Slam Allen will also perform on the vessel.
  • The top decks of Norwegian Breakaway will feature the first Aqua Park at sea with five full-size water slides, including twin Free Fall slides, the first ever at sea, and a three-story sports complex that includes the largest ropes course at sea, a nine-hole miniature golf course, basketball court, rock climbing wall and more.
  • The Breakaway will be home to Norwegian’s largest kids club to date for ages 3 to 12. Teens will actually look forward to getting out of bed and heading to ‘Entourage’ where they can hang with their peers. Even little ones under 2 can enjoy special playtime with their parents in a dedicated area.
  • The ship will offer a wide range of accommodations to fit any need, from the Studios designed for the solo traveler, the re-introduction of oceanview staterooms (the Norwegian Epic only had balconies and inside staterooms) to spacious two-bedroom family suites. And don’t forget The Haven by Norwegian, comprised of 42 exclusive Suites at the top of the ship and 18 additional Suites located throughout the ship.

The Norwegian Breakaway is open for new reservations, beginning with 7-day cruises to Bermuda in May 2013.

Give one of our experts a call (for free; free guidance, free support, did I mention their help was free?) for more information and the lowest cruise deals on the Breakaway at 800.243.1959 or email us to get started!

 

 

Posted in: Bahamas Cruise, Caribbean Cruises, Cruise Amenities and Entertainment, Cruise Dining, Cruise News, Cruise Ships, Cruise Youth Programs, CruiseNow Family, Family Cruising.
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Is Travel Insurance a Good Value?

Aug 30th, 2012
by Alara.
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Whether you book your cruise online yourself or directly with a travel agent, chances are pretty high that you will be offered travel insurance.

I personally always offer my clients travel insurance and most of the time I get the question, “Is it really worth it?”.

That, of course, is a really good question and the answer is always, “Yes”.

The cruise lines will charge a penalty for canceling your cruise vacation after final payment, and sometimes at deposit if you have reserved a ‘flash’ or restricted promotion (always confirm with your agent).

This penalty amount will increase the closer you get to sailing. Now, from my experience it seems to be if something unfortunate is going to happen it will happen only a week or two before the cruise, unfortunately that is the time frame for 100% penalty; no money back.

Travel protection can protect you from this penalty, providing a reimbursement for any monies lost. Always discuss the coverage, inclusions and exclusions of the policy, most insurance companies will not cover cancellation just because you don’t want to cruise at the last minute.

Another positive to travel insurance is the medical and dental coverage you receive. While general health insurance plans may cover you during travel outside the United States, others do not. You never know when an accident could happen and several foreign countries will not treat you without proof of insurance.Even if you are lucky enough to already be protected outside of the US, I would suggest the travel insurance as a supplemental plan.

Emergency Medical Transportation is an extremely important part of the travel insurance product. You don’t ever want to think you or a loved one would need to be airlifted for a medical treatment, however, if this does happen it can cost upwards of$100,000.00, depending on where you are in the world. That is a pretty big chunk of change to cough up.

I will say, many passengers never purchase the insurance until they needed it and didn’t have it. After that scare, it becomes a necessity. Sadly, I have seen clients lose a lot of money after an emergency, so I always suggest, and personally purchase, travel insurance.

Most policies are very affordable, making it a nominal fee to provide peace of mind — making sure your vacation investment is covered.

Travel insurance is something you want to have and not use, never need and not have!

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Posted in: Cruise Tips and Advice, Frequently Asked Questions, Travel Insurance.
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Cruise News : Three Innovative Cruise Ship Programs in Testing Stages Onboard

Aug 23rd, 2012
by Alara.
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The cruise industry is constantly changing and evolving in an effort to meet consumer demands, expectations of what the optimum vacation experience should be.

We recently highlighted Carnival’s new crusade against the poolside chair-hog, a program implemented to prevent those who arrive at the pool deck early from ‘saving’ a chair for the entire day, most times the chair is never occupied.

Within the past two weeks we’ve also been informed of three other unique programs in the beginning or testing stages – ‘The Signature Trio’ package offered by Norwegian Cruise Line, ‘Faster to the Fun’ and ‘My Awesome Bar Program’ with Carnival Cruise Line.

‘The Signature Trio’ Dining Package — Norwegian Cruise Line

Just today, Norwegian Cruise Line announced a new dining ‘bundle’ that passengers can purchase before sailing. This bundle allows guests to experience 3 of Norwegian’s popular specialty restaurants; dinner at their signature Steakhouse, French bistro, and Italian restaurant.

The package is only available to purchase prior to sailing at $47 per person, providing a total savings of $8. Once onboard, you would have to individually reserve each location; Steakhouse for $25 per person, $20 for the French Bistro, and $10 for the Italian eateries.

You may confirm this package on line at ncl.com or speak with your personal cruise guide.

‘Faster to the Fun’ – Carnival Cruise Lines

This is a priority perks program, developed based on consumer surveys that indicated an interest in a package providing priority access and benefits.

For $49.95 per cabin, each occupant qualifies for early embarkation, early stateroom availability, express luggage delivery service to staterooms, priority dinner seatings and tender availability, plus a choice of early or late debarkation. The program also includes express access to the ships’ guest services desk for any assistance guests may need during their voyage.

Guests that are Diamond and Platinum members of Carnival’s past guest program, their VIFP (Very Important Fun Person) Club, all ‘Faster to the Fun’ benefits are included in their member benefits, free of charge.

Still in the testing stages, ‘Faster to the Fun’ rolled out for purchase within the shore excursion section online for the Carnival Imagination Aug. 20 and will be featured on the Carnival Liberty Aug. 25.

‘My Awesome Bar Program’ – Carnival Cruise Lines

Also in its trial run, Carnival is testing an all-you-can-drink alcohol package. Following in the footsteps of Celebrity, MSC and Oceania this all-inclusive package gives cruisers a value option for unlimited wine, beer and spirits, as well as sodas and non-alcoholic frozen cocktails.

The ‘My Awesome Bar Program’ will cost $42.95 per person, per day plus a 15% gratuity. All included beverages, wines by the glass, beer and individual cocktails must be $10 or less to qualify. However, if guests would like to enjoy something more expensive, or purchase a bottle of wine or Champagne, a 25% discount is offered to program members.

Each passenger, at least 21 years old, within the same cabin must purchase the beverage package in an attempt to prevent cabin mates from ‘sharing’ a package, presumably. Passengers on the Carnival Victory, Carnival’s drink package test ship, can sign up in at the atrium and casino bars, or the pool bar.

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Posted in: Cruise Dining, Cruise Loyalty Programs, Cruise News, Frequently Asked Questions, Ways to Save on Your Cruise.
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Royal Caribbean's Popular Theme Nights Spice Things up at Sea

Aug 17th, 2012
by Alara.
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While every night on board a Royal Caribbean cruise ship is packed full of fun and excitement, they just can’t help but add even more entertainment to your vacation. Theme nights are one way Royal Caribbean spices things up. From hiding your identity at the Masquerade Ball to going back to the 60’s or 70’s in a block party,  participating in a theme night is sure to be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Themes you might find on a Royal Caribbean ship:

  • Big Band Night
  • Rock ‘n Roll Night
  • Masquerade Ball
  • Roman Toga Party
  • 70’s Party
  • 80’s Party
  • Kids’ Pirate Theme Night
  • Mystery Dinner Theater- an event hosted by professional actors at Italian restaurant, Portofino’s

Themes vary from ship to ship, every itinerary is different, making it somewhat of a surprise as to which theme you’ll be awarded.

Just make sure to come prepared to have a great time. You can check your Cruise Compass and Daily Planner for details including time and location.

 

photo credits: mysterydinner & twodolla

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Posted in: Cruise Dining, Family Cruising, Frequently Asked Questions, Special Cruise Packages.
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In the Know: Choosing Between Open Dining or a Traditional Seating on Your Next Cruise

Aug 7th, 2012
by Alara.
1 comment

Cruise ship dining has always been part of leisure cruising’s storied past. From an ocean liner’s elegant first-class dining rooms to the buffet-style restaurants on Lido decks, it is well-known that you can always eat, and eat well, on a cruise vacation.

Until recently, dining on a cruise was fairly predictable. You had your classic first (6pm) and second (8-8:30pm) seatings, along with a more casual atmosphere on the Lido (pool) deck of the ship.

But as cruise lines are constantly altering their ships, and bringing exciting innovations to the cruise industry, your static, traditional first and second seatings are suddenly out of date – with ‘open’ seatings, specialty restaurants, and spa-like eateries taking over.

Typically, when you confirm your cruise reservation you select the traditional early or first (6pm), late or second (8-8:30pm) dining time based upon personal preference. You dine in the main dining room at the same time each evening, at the same assigned table, with the same table mates and server.

A traditional dining time has many advantages besides being a classic part of cruise history.

  • You don’t need to worry about what time you will eat dinner, you just know what time to be ready.
  • Your server is good, very good, and will remember if you like to have exactly 1 ½ Diet Cokes before you even order your meal. You can bet there will be exactly 1 ½ Diet Cokes waiting for you at your seat for the duration of the cruise.
  • You are assigned to a particular table with other passengers, sizes ranging from 4-10 guests. This, also, is a class part of cruise history. Cruising is a very social vacation; it allows you the opportunity to meet life-long friends. Many of those friendships have started at the dinner table.

While the traditional seating options are popular with many, one of the biggest revolutions to cruise ship dining was open seating introduced by Norwegian Cruise Line and later adopted by other major cruise lines. Coined Freestyle Dining, My Time Dining, or Anytime Dining depending on which line you select.

If you choose an open seating style for your cruise, this simply means you have an open dining time.

  • You are able to visit the Main Dining Room whenever you’d like, usually between the hours of 5:45pm-9:30pm.
  • Similar to restaurant-style seating, you approach the dining room and ask for a table for 2, or however large your party may be. You are able to dine alone, or be seated with other guests.
  • This style of seating provides wonderful flexibility. If you’d like to stay in port a little longer, take a nap, or have a little extra time at the pool – so be it. You don’t have to be anywhere.
  • With the flexibility, you lose a little familiarity. Your server will change each evening (unless you make a specific request for the same person, there might be a wait) and you will not be sitting with the same guests.
  • There may be a short wait at popular dinner times, but you are able to call down and make a reservation each evening if you have an idea of when you would like to have dinner.

Depending on your cruise ship, along with your choices in the Main Dining Room of traditional dining or open seating, you can have upwards of 10-15 additional dining venues including complimentary options and some with an additional fee.

And don’t forget about the 24 hour room service!

Whatever you’re craving, whatever time you’re craving it, you’re sure to find it on your next cruise vacation.

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Posted in: Cruise Dining, Cruise Tips and Advice, Frequently Asked Questions.
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End of the Poolside Chair Hog? Carnival Cruise Lines Would Like to Think So

Aug 3rd, 2012
by Alara.
2 comments

Posted in: Caribbean Cruises, Cruise News, Cruise Ships.
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