Before Booking
How do I make a booking?
You can book by either calling us on Dublin 01-2941000 or by booking on our website www.cruisescapes.ie Please ensure at the time of booking that you give your First and Surname as per your passport as Airlines and Cruise companies will charge if the name does not match your passport.
What is the difference between an inside/outside/balcony cabin?
Inside cabin – Does not have any windows or portholes
Outside cabin – Has a picture window or porthole to view the ocean
Balcony cabin – Doors which open out onto your own private balcony to view the ocean. Balcony cabins are usually larger than the Inside and Outside Cabins.
What is a guaranteed cabin?
When you confirm a guaranteed cabin, you are guaranteed that particular cabin grade you have paid for or higher. A cabin number is given to you once you receive your tickets or when you board the ship. Your cabin will be automatically assigned and therefore cannot be declined, or changed.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
When booking, we would require a deposit and the outstanding balance is payable 12 weeks before departure.
When is the best time to book a cruise?
We recommend you book your cruise as early as possible, to ensure you receive the best rate available and booking early guarantees more availability and your choice of itinerary and cabin type.
Do I need Travel Insurance?
All cruise guests are required to take out adequate and appropriate holiday insurance to cover, as a minimum, travel, cancellation, missed cruise connection, medical and repatriation liabilities.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Yes we offer a comprehensive travel insurance policy with optional top ups to ensure you are covered for the particular holiday you are taking. Please call us for further information.
Can we celebrate a special occasion onboard?
Yes, not a problem. Each cruise line offer different packages, let us know the occasion and we will advise you the packages which are available.
Can I book airport accommodation with you?
Yes, we have also arranged special rates for our clients in Irish airport hotels please call or e-mail us for prices.
Can I extend my stay either in the departure or disembarkation port ?
Yes, we can arrange accommodation and organise transfers to and from the ports. We can also arrange local tours in your chosen destination.
What are Gratuities?
Gratuities (Tips) are paid to the cruise staff onboard the ship. Every cruise line has a different tipping policy, some cruise lines include this in the cost of your cruise, otherwise this can be prepaid at time of booking or paid onboard. Please ask at time of booking and our cruise consultants will advise you accordingly.
Can we stay in touch with friends and family whilst onboard?
Yes , the majority of cruiselines have internet/wireless facilities onboard. You are also able to use your cabin telephone (additional cost) or your mobile phone ( Rates onboard may be subject to higher charges).
Will I need to take my own hairdryer?
The majority of cruise lines will have hairdryers in the cabins. However you are able to take your own. You will need to take a 2 prong adaptor with you (the kind you would bring for a holiday to Spain)
Are there medical facilities onboard?
The majority of cruise lines have medical facilities onboard, however we recommend you check with the cruise line. Please advise at time of booking if you have any medical conditions.
Are there restrictions for pregnant women?
Each Cruise line has a different policy with regards to pregnancy. If you require further information please Phone one of our cruise consultants on 01-2941000.
After booking
How do I know my booking is confirmed?
Once you have confirmed your booking with us, a confirmation will be sent to you in the post and/or by e-mail.
When will I receive confirmation of my booking?
A confirmation is sent to you within 24 hours of confirming your booking
Who do I contact if I have a enquiry about my booking?
Please call us on 01 -2941000.
What if I need to a change to my booking?
If you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way we will do our utmost to accommodate your requirements. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of €40 per amendment requested and any further costs we incur in making this alteration. All requests for changes are to be received by Cruisescapes in writing. Name changes and cruise date changes could be considered a cancellation by certain suppliers and could therefore be subject to cancellation fees.
What if I need to cancel?
As per our terms and conditions, if you wish to cancel you will need to confirm the cancellation in writing either via post /fax or email . We can only cancel your booking with the cruise lines/airlines etc once we have received the cancellation in writing unless you have not paid by the balance due date (then we have the right to cancel your booking). Please note cancellation charges will apply.
When is my full balance due?
Full balance is due 12 weeks prior to departure.
Are there any extra charges for paying my balance by Credit Card?
We reserve the right to charge an administration/service fee of 2% for payments made by credit card or Visa debit card. No fees are applicable if payment is effected through a Laser card or by cheque/bank draft. If payment is made by cheque confirmation of booking can only be made after clearance of cheque.
When will tickets be sent out?
Tickets are sent out 10 -14 days before departure.
What if my tickets do not arrive on time?
We will arrange a pier pickup or we can email them to you.
When can I board the ship?
Each cruise line has their own individual boarding times, please check your tickets before cruising.
Can I prebook shore excursions?
Yes, we can arrange this for you, please call our shore excursion service on 01 2941000. Shore Excursions need to be prebooked at least 4 weeks in advance, or you can book them onboard.
General
Are Cruise itineraries subject to change?
Yes, cruise itineraries are subject to change. Guest safety is the number one priority for the cruise lines. On rare occasions, weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances require a change in itinerary. In these situations, the cruise line staff will do everything in their power to visit an alternate port of call.
Do I need my passport?
Yes, you will require your passport. Even if you are travelling from a UK port the cruise line will request to view your passport at check in due to safety and security reasons. You may also be required to present your passport at different ports of call.
What happens with dining times ?
Each cruise line has it’s own dining option, each ship will vary according to the number and type of restaurants available. Some cruise lines have traditional dining 1st & 2nd seating in the evenings, while other cruiselines offer a choice of dining options. You will be advised of the options available to you at the time of booking.
Are there speciality restaurants and room service?
Yes for your convenience in addition to breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night buffets in the main dinning rooms many ships also offer room service and several additional speciality restaurants for which there is a small extra charge.
Are there formal nights onboard?
Each cruise line varies, but there are typically 2 formal nights per week. Please call one of our cruise consultants on 01 2941000 for futher information.
How do I pay for onboard purchases?
For your convenience, you may charge most of your purchases onboard to your cabin. An onboard account will be set up for you when you board the ship and purchases will be billed automatically to your credit card which you have used to set up your account. If you do not have a credit card you may use a cash deposit , usually around €50 per person per day depending on the cruise line you are sailing with.
How do we get ashore?
The majority of cruise lines dock at the pier , however at some destinations you may require to reach shore by tender. If you have any mobiliry difficulties, please advise us at the time of booking, as not all tendor options may be suitable for you.
Do I have to get off the ship at each port of call?
No, you are free to stay onboard. Activities and meals will go ahead as normal.
Can we get married onboard?
Yes you can get married or renew your vows onboard. As regulations vary between cruise lines please call our cruise consultants for further details on 01 2941000
Where do I need to go to sign up for the Newsletter?
See our homepage for details.
