Help Center
Welcome to our Cruise Booking Help Center, where you'll find answers to all your booking, payment, and travel-related questions.
Why Use Our Cruise Booking Help Center?
Browse step-by-step guides covering booking, payments, cancellations, and travel planning — everything you need to make the most of your cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I book cruises?
Download the free ChooseCruise app on iOS or Android to search 40,000+ cruise deals, compare prices across all major cruise lines, and get price-drop alerts before you book. No agent fees — you pay the cruise line price directly.
Who goes on a cruise?
Cruises suit every generation — young couples, newlyweds, families with children, solo travelers, and retirees. Ships cater to all of them at once with separate areas, clubs, and programming for each group. Most first-timers book again within 18 months.
Where can I cruise?
Cruises offer the chance to visit destinations like the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Greek islands, Norwegian fjords, the Baltic, Dubai, and the Emirates. You can also explore Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Australia, and New Zealand. Cruises also take you to stunning places such as Alaska, Canada, and South America. You could even embark on an exciting World Tour.
What is included in the cruise price?
The price includes the cruise, chosen cabin, full board, water and coffee from machines, tea, snacks, captain's gala dinner, pools, jacuzzi, fitness center, disco, theater, daily and evening activities, luggage handling, and port taxes. Some cruises may also include drink packages, gratuities, and certain shore excursions.
What is not included in the cruise price?
The price does not include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, specialty restaurants, or shore excursions. Additionally, it excludes services such as laundry, health and beauty treatments, and hair salon appointments. You will need to pay separately for telephone calls, internet, and professional photos. Passengers must arrange gratuities for staff, medical center services, and travel health insurance on their own. The price does not cover costs for visas, transfers, or parking.
What are gratuities for ship staff?
Gratuities are mandatory and usually cost 10 EUR per day per person. For children up to 12 years, it is typically 5 EUR per day. The amount depends on the cruise line. Read more about cruise gratuities and tipping policies.
What is the ship's currency?
The official currency on European cruises is EUR. On cruises in the Caribbean, South America, and South Africa, it is USD. American cruise lines use USD regardless of the destination.
What languages are spoken on the ship?
The official languages are English, Italian, German, French, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese. Reception staff usually speak these languages, and daily programs and menus are available in them.
What is the daily program?
Every evening, you will receive a daily program in your cabin with information about the next day's activities, meal times, entertainment, shore excursions, and more.
What should I pack?
Pack comfortable clothes, swimwear, and for themed evenings, appropriate attire. Formal wear is optional for the captain's gala dinner. Bring comfortable shoes for walking, pool or beach sandals, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Can I bring my pet on board?
Pets are not allowed, except for guide dogs. If you wish to bring a guide dog, notify your agent to confirm with the cruise line.
Is smoking allowed on the ship?
You may only smoke in designated smoking areas. If you smoke in unauthorized areas, the cruise line may charge you a cleaning fee or require you to disembark early. The cruise line strictly prohibits throwing cigarette butts overboard.
Is there a doctor on the ship?
Every ship has a medical team. Passengers must pay for all medical services, so we advise purchasing travel health insurance.
What is the safety drill?
A safety drill is mandatory and conducted when the ship departs from the first port. Instructions on what to do and where to go in an emergency will be provided.
What data is required for booking a cruise?
You need to provide contact information and passport details for all travelers. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the trip.
How do I make payments on the ship?
Payments are cashless (except in the casino). You need to deposit a certain amount in cash or register your credit/debit card at the start. All expenses are charged to your onboard account, and a final bill is provided on the last evening of the cruise.
Can I pre-book services on the ship?
Yes, you can pre-book internet packages, shore excursions, drink packages, spa services, surprise gifts, and more through ChooseCruise and our partners.
Are there special benefits for frequent cruisers?
ChooseCruise, our partners and cruise lines offer special benefits and discounts for frequent travelers and loyalty program members.
What are the cabin categories on the ship?
Cabins are classified into interior, window, and balcony categories. Interior cabins are the most affordable but lack natural light. Window cabins have non-opening windows, and balcony cabins are more comfortable with outdoor space. Luxurious suites are also available on many ships.
What are guaranteed cabins?
Guaranteed cabins offer the lowest price but do not specify the cabin number or location until departure. You are guaranteed the category you paid for, with a potential free upgrade. The risk is that you might not like the cabin's location.
Are there cabins for people with reduced mobility or functional needs?
Yes, most cruise lines offer a limited number of cabins adapted for people with reduced mobility. These passengers usually need a companion. Inform your agent of any special requirements during booking.
Can I bring a wheelchair on board?
Yes, but notify your agent in advance. Also, check airline policies if you are flying to the port.
What if I miss the boarding time and the ship departs?
Ships depart on schedule — even if passengers are missing. The safest approach: arrive at the port city the day before, and account for traffic, border delays, and flight disruptions. Travel insurance with a missed-departure benefit can also cover the cost of catching the ship at the next port.
How much luggage can I bring on a cruise?
Most cruise lines do not limit luggage weight, but individual suitcases should not exceed 30 kg. Space in the cabin is limited, so pack accordingly. If flying, check your airline's baggage policy.
Where can I reserve parking if I travel by car?
Parking can be reserved at most ports of embarkation. The average cost for eight days ranges from 80 to 130 EUR. Provide your car's registration number and model when booking.
What if I need travel insurance?
We recommend purchasing travel health insurance, trip cancellation insurance, and baggage insurance. Consult our support for more details. Learn more about the importance of travel insurance here.
What are the passport and visa requirements?
Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the cruise. Check the visa requirements for the countries you will visit and ensure you have all necessary visas.
Is cruising safe?
Many people consider cruises one of the safest ways to travel. Cruise lines equip modern ships with the latest safety equipment and implement strict protocols. Learn how cruise lines are embracing sustainability here.
Will I get seasick on the ship?
Modern ships have stabilizers and avoid bad weather, making seasickness rare. If you are prone to motion sickness, stay on lower decks and near the center of the ship. Motion sickness tablets are available at the reception.
Is there a doctor on the ship?
Yes, every ship has a medical team. Medical services are paid, so it is advisable to have travel health insurance.
What services are available on the ship?
The ship offers various services such as pools, jacuzzis, fitness centers, discos, theaters, daily and evening activities, children's clubs, and more.
How do I pay for services on the ship?
All payments are made using your onboard account. You can deposit cash or register a credit/debit card at the start of the cruise.
What is a ship card?
A ship card is an identification card that serves as your cabin key and payment method on the ship. It is issued during boarding or found in your cabin.
Are there hairdryers and towels in the cabin?
Yes, your cabin will have towels for the shower and pool/beach, as well as a hairdryer. The cabin is also equipped with soap, shampoo, and body wash.
Are electrical outlets available in the cabin?
Cabin outlets follow European standards (110/220 V). Bring an adapter for North American plugs if necessary.
What dining options are available on board?
Most cruise ships offer a variety of dining options, including formal dining rooms, buffets, specialty restaurants, and casual eateries. Some ships also provide room service and themed dining experiences.
Are meals included in the cruise price?
Yes, all main meals in the buffet and main dining room are included in the cruise price. Specialty restaurants and certain beverages like alcohol may incur additional charges.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, most cruise lines can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or low-sodium diets. Notify your agent or the cruise line in advance to ensure your needs are met.
Are drink packages available?
Yes, drink packages are available for purchase, including options for soft drinks, alcohol, specialty coffees, and bottled water. Packages vary by cruise line and can often be booked before departure or onboard.
Are cruises suitable for families with children?
Yes, most cruise lines welcome families and offer activities and entertainment for children, such as kids' clubs, discos, pools, slides, video games, and sports activities. The minimum age for babies is usually six months.
Do children cruise for free?
Children up to 12 years old traveling with two full-paying adults often only pay port taxes. There are also special rates for children under 18 with two full-paying adults. Contact our support for specific terms.
Can pregnant women go on a cruise?
Pregnant women up to the 24th week of pregnancy are welcome. A doctor's certificate is often required. Airlines also have restrictions for pregnant travelers. Contact our support for more information.
Are cruises suitable for people traveling alone?
Yes, many cruise lines offer single cabins at affordable rates. Solo travelers can enjoy numerous activities and social opportunities on the ship. See the best cruise lines for solo travelers.
Can I celebrate a special event on the ship?
Yes, you can arrange for surprises such as cakes, champagne, or strawberries with chocolate. Weddings can also be organized on the ship, although they are not legally binding. Contact our support for more details.