Menu

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE CRUISE?
  • All meals in formal dining rooms and buffets
  • Non-carbonated beverages (i.e. tea, juices, coffee)
  • All concerts, speaker sessions, etc. hosted by Cruise Chics
  • Use of the ship’s beautiful pools
  • Use of the ship’s health and fitness center
  • Taxes and port charges
  • Rock Climbing wall
  • Flowrider
  • Putt Putt
  • Ice Skating sessions open to the public
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF THE CRUISE?
  • Items of personal nature (phone calls, internet, laundry, etc.)- internet packages  available
  • Spa & beauty salon
  • Soft drinks, wine and alcohol (drink packages are available for purchase)
  • Meals in the specialty restaurants
  • Room Service ($7.95 per delivery + 18% gratuity)
  • Excursions while in Ports
  • Airfare
  • Ground transportation
  • Cruise insurance (available for an additional fee)
  • Optional pre-hotel
HOW MUCH IS THE DEPOSIT?

Deposit is 1/2 of the price now and the balance is due December 1, 2018.

CAN I PAY IN FULL?
Yes, you can pay in full at any time.
HOW DO I PAY?
We accept all major credit cards.
IS THERE A FEE FOR ELECTING TO DO MONTHLY PAYMENTS?

Yes, we charge a one time fee of $20. It is rolled into your payments. (After August 31, 2018 monthly payments are not available.)

HOW ARE PAYMENTS RUN?
We run monthly payments on the 25th of each month with the card you place on file with us.
CAN I USE TWO DIFFERENT CARDS TO PAY?
Yes
CAN I ADD PEOPLE TO MY ROOM LATER?
If we have availability, then yes! You will need to call our offices, 404-388-3358 at that time and we will be happy to assist. You may need to be moved to a higher occupancy stateroom, which involves fees at time of move.
CAN I CHANGE MY STATEROOM?
Yes, if we have availability.
WHAT TRAVEL DOCUMENTS DO I NEED?
Proper travel documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise and is the responsibility of the guest. Any guest traveling without proper documentation will not be allowed to board the vessel and no refund of the cruise fare will be issued. citizens are encouraged to show a U.S. passport. If they do not have a passport, they should be prepared to provide a valid government-issued photo ID (i.e. Driver’s License) and proof of U.S. citizenship in the form of a government-issued (not hospital issued) U.S. birth certificate. It is important that guest names on travel documents be identical to those on the cruise booking. Otherwise, proof of name change (i.e. a marriage license) OR a valid driver’s license or government-issued photo ID must be presented. For further information on documentation for U.S. citizens see U.S. Customs and Border protection.
For further information on documentation for Non-U.S. citizens go to www..iatatravelcentre.com/travelinformation.
DO I NEED TO HAVE A PASSPORT?
A passport is not required for cruising unless traveling to an international port. A passport is highly recommended in case of an emergency that would require you to leave the ship before it returns back to the home port.
CAN SPECIAL DIETS BE ACCOMMODATED ON THE SHIP?

We can accommodate most special dietary needs, such as Gluten- free at no extra charge. Please let us know in advance so we can inform the ship.

WHAT IS AVAILABLE IN OUR STATEROOMS?
TV, telephone, private bathroom, hairdryer, pool , beach towels and room safe.
DOES THE SHIPS HAVE ALARM CLOCKS IN THE CABINS?
No, but you can call and request a wake-up call.
DOES THE SHIP ACCEPT CASH?
No, as a cashless system is used. You room key will act as a credit card while on the ship. When you do your online check- in they will require a debit or credit card for these charges. It best not to use a debit card as they will place a hold on it.
CAN I CRUISE IF I AM PREGNANT?

Royal Caribbean International cannot accept guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the beginning of, or at any time during the cruise or cruise tour. All guests are required to sign a health questionnaire at check-in to ensure they are aware of our pregnancy policy.

WHAT TIME CAN I BOARD THE SHIP?

The usual boarding time begins around 11:30am. The lines are much heavier earlier in the day.

DOES THE SHIP ACCEPT CASH?
No, as a cashless system is used. You room key will act as a credit card while on the ship. When you do your online check- in they will require a debit or credit card for these charges. It best not to use a debit card as they will place a hold on it.
IS THERE A DOCTOR ON THE SHIP?
A qualified physician and registered nurse are on board throughout your cruise. Consultation hours and fees are posted at the infirmary. Emergency medical service is available 24 hours a day. And please don’t worry about getting seasick. The ship is equipped with stabilizers, so seasickness is very rare – especially with all the preventatives on the market today. If you have had any problems with seasickness before, or if you begin to feel queasy, medicine is available from your cabin steward, the Purser’s Office or the doctor.
WHAT ABOUT TIPPING?
The automatic gratuity is $14.50 USD, or $17.50 USD for suite guests, applied to each guest’s SeaPass account on a daily basis. The gratuity applies to individual guests of all ages and stateroom categories. As a way to reward our crew members for their outstanding service, gratuities are shared among dining, bar & culinary services staff, stateroom attendants and other hotel services teams who work behind the scenes to enhance the cruise experience.

In the unlikely event that a guest onboard being charged the daily automatic gratuity does not receive satisfactory service, the guest may request to modify the daily amount at their discretion by visiting Guest Services onboard and will be able to do so until the morning of their departure. Guests who have pre-paid their gratuity will not see a daily charge during their cruise.

The automatic daily gratuity is based on customary industry standards. Applying this charge automatically helps streamline the recognition process for the crew members that work to enhance your cruise. We hope you find the gratuity to be an accurate reflection of your satisfaction and thank you for your generous recognition of our staff.

DO I NEED A MEDICAL FORM FOR DIABETES OR C-PAP?
We suggest making sure this information is noted on your reservation so we can have Royal Caribbean contact you for more information.
HOW DO I DISPOSE OF MY DIABETIC NEEDLES?
You can bring your own Red Sharps disposal or request one from your  cabin steward.
HOW CAN I CHANGE MY DINING TIME?
Part of the retreat is eating dinner together each night. We place everyone in a community group and you dine together each night.
DO THEY SERVE BREAKFAST THE DAY WE RETURN AND GET OFF THE SHIP?
Yes, breakfast only is served the day the ship returns to Fort Lauderdale
WHAT TIME DO I GET OFF THE SIP WHEN WE RETURN?
The normal time to disembark is by 8:00 am- 10am. This time could change due to unforeseen circumstances. The passengers disembark by zones, which are assigned to you ahead of time. We highly suggest you book your return flight after 12 noon to avoid travel delays due to disembarkation.
WHEN WILL I GET THE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS ON THE CRUISE?
The final itinerary is given once you board the ship.
DO I HAVE TO GET OFF THE SHIP WHEN WE GET TO THE PORT OF CALL, OR CAN I STAY ON THE SHIP?
You may stay on the ship if you wish.
WHAT CAN I DO IN PORT?
We will have pre-planed shore excursion options you can join in on ( for a fee) or you can explore the port area on your own. You can also stay on the ship if you prefer.
WHAT IF AM TRAVELLING BY MYSELF?
Wonderful, we have a lot of solo travelers. We have options for a room by yourself or we can match you with a roomie about your age.
CAN GUEST WITH DISABILITIES COMFORTABLY CRUISE?
The ships have staterooms designed to accommodate guests with mobility disabilities and other disabilities that require the features of an accessible stateroom. RCCL have personnel with wheelchairs who provide assistance with pushing wheelchairs on and off the ship using gangways and boarding bridges. Please note our personnel are not required to lift guests.
IS THERE A LIMIT ON LUGGAGE I CAN BRING?

Yes, 4 pieces.

HOW MUCH MONEY SHOULD I BRING?
The ship is a cashless system, so you just need cash for in port ( you can use US dollars) and for tipping the porters at the port.
My church hosts conferences every year and we want to consider having it onboard a cruise next year. How can Cruise Chics help my church make this a successful and "hassle free" venture

We can provide posters and postcards to distribute to the ladies of your church. We can provide a space for a meet of just your ladies on one of the days if you prefer. Or you can all enjoy our programming and events. We will provide one free spot for every 6 cabins booked.

IS MOTION DISCOMFORT A PROBLEM?

Rarely, popular cruise itineraries boast some of the calmest waters in the world. In addition, stabilizers on modern ships, advanced availability on accurate weather information, and development of effective preventative medications have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort. Options to help if you to get a little uncomfortable- step out and get fresh air, look at the horizon, chew ginger or take ginger capsules, sea sickness bands work with pressure points and Dramamine are all things that can help.

WILL I GET BORED OR FEEL CONFINED?
Hardly! Being at sea gives you a feeling of total freedom that no land-based resort can offer. There’s plenty of room. And it will probably take two to three days just to discover everything that is on board. Plus you get the added adventure of exploring many exciting ports of call. Cruise ships are like floating resorts with all the choices fine resorts have to offer. You can lie back in a lounge chair, breathe in the sea air, soak up the sun, read good books or watch the ever changing seascape. If you are more active, join in an exercise class and sport contests. Or take some fresh air on the jogging deck. Swim, stretch out in the sauna or work out in the gym. You can also see a feature film, attend an enrichment lecture, or play backgammon, rock climb, play putt putt, try out the Flowrider or even ice skate in the Caribbean!
WHAT CAN I DO IN PORT?

So much you’ll have a hard time choosing! You can explore on your own or take a guided tour (often referred to as shore excursion). Cruising is the perfect way to sample a number of new destinations while never having to pack and unpack.

WHY MUST I PAY THROUGH CRUISE CHICS?
The artists and speakers are paid for by Cruise Chics rather than the cruise line. Therefore, the concerts  and events are not open to all individuals on board. All Cruise Chics group members will be given an ID card in which they will bring to all of the Cruise Chics events and meetings.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?

We want your cruise experience with us to be totally comfortable, so your clothes should be as well. Pack lightweight items such as cotton shorts, loose fitting shirts, sandals and a swimsuit. Don’t forget a cover-up for visiting other areas of the ship while in your swimsuits. You might also want to bring a pair of athletic shoes for an aerobics class or an invigorating jog around the deck. Of course, you’ll also want to bring suntan lotion or sun block, sunglasses and perhaps a hat for lounging around the pool area.

For those rare occasions when we experience a few raindrops, it is also a good idea to bring a light raincoat. And, a light sweater or jacket may also come in handy on cool evenings. And by all means, please bring your camera! We recommend you carry it on rather than pack it in your luggage. Photo opportunities begin the moment you step on board. You’ll also get the chance to dress up for dinner, there is one formal night .

If you wear contact lenses, it may be wise to take an extra pair. And, if you use any prescription medicine, leave medicines in original container with enough to last your entire trip. These items should be in your carry-on.

WHAT ABOUT TELEPHONE CALLS AND INTERNET?

Yes, Royal Caribbean works with cellular networks to provide the ability to connect your device through “cellular at sea”. These roaming rates to utilize your device are determined by your cellular provider. Prior to your sailing, it is recommended to contact your cellular provide for more information on these rates and special packages available. Additionally, another option for staying connected without utilizing your cellular data, is connecting to VOOM, the fastest internet at sea. VOOM allows guests to stay connected via Wi-Fi, with a variety of packages to choose from.

Utilizing Royal Caribbean’s in-room phones and phones in common areas is a simple way to communicate with guests onboard your ship and onshore. If you are trying to reach a guest onboard the ship, you can make a call to their stateroom and optionally leave a message.  Use of the phones for calls to a guest’s stateroom is complimentary.  Of course, it requires the guest to be in the room to answer the call and/or check the voicemail.  This can result in “phone tag,” where it seems like you are always missing each other.

If you want to get in contact with someone on land, there are two options.

Calls made from land to your Royal Caribbean cruise (shore to ship) can be achieved by calling (888) 724-7447/(321) 953-9003 to reach passengers.  The cost of this service is $7.95 per minute, and is chargeable to a Visa or MasterCard credit card.

Calls made from your Royal Caribbean ship to somewhere on land (ship to shore) can be made from your stateroom phone and also costs $7.95 per minute, billed to your SeaPass account.

Text messaging, however, is far less expensive. Once again, rates will vary, but most SMS messages that are sent will cost anywhere from 25 cents to $1 per message, with incoming messages free or up to 50 cents per message.

Using your cell phone’s data plan can be prohibitively expensive, with costs of $1 per MB or more.  You are better off skipping this option and looking at Voom options.

Some cell phone providers offer a special international plan for use on a cruise ship.  For example, AT&T has a partnership with Royal Caribbean, where you can pre-purchase a plan that provides an allotment of phone usage at sea.

There are two Voom plans offered:

  • Voom Surf
    • This offers basic web browsing, with no streaming services allowed
    • Starts at $15.99 per day for 1 device
      • The price gets cheaper as more devices are added to the plan
      • Most guests can get a 20% pre-cruise discount via the Cruise Planner site
      • There is also a Crown & Anchor Society discount once onboard
  • Voom Surf + Stream
    • Full internet access, including streaming services
    • Starts at $19.99 per day for 1 device
      • The price gets cheaper as more devices are added to the plan
      • Most guests can get a 20% pre-cruise discount via the Cruise Planner site
      • There is also a Crown & Anchor Society discount once onboard
WIFI CALLING?

The easiest option is to use Wi-Fi calling through your carrier.  Most major cell phone carriers these days provide a means of making phone calls via an internet connection instead of relying on a cell phone connection.

Wi-Fi calling has no additional cost and works just like you are at home and supports voice calls, text messaging (SMS and MMS).  It works with most newer devices, including iPhone 5C and later, Android and Blackberry devices.  Check with your carrier for exact devices that are supported.

At last check, these carriers supported Wi-Fi calling

  • Verizon
  • AT&T
  • T-Mobile
  • Sprint
  • Google

To make a phone call over Wi-Fi, put your device into airplane mode and connect to Voom via Wi-Fi.  If set up correctly on your phone, your calls, texts will be routed through Voom.

Free/low cost VoIP Services

There are many applications for your smart phone, computer or tablets that allow for free or low cost phone calls as well. There are a number popular applications we recommend using.

With all of these solutions, we highly recommend testing them out before your Royal Caribbean cruise to ensure you understand how it works and is set up correctly.

Skype, Google Hangouts, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger

Please call for availability and current prices.