Frequently asked questions

• Will I get sea sick?

  It is unlikely that you will get sick as most modern ships have retractable stabilisers, which resemble large underwater fins, that act to counteract the rolling motion that can make some people feel nauseous.

• How can I avoid getting sea sick?

  The first step to reducing the possibility of getting sick is cabin choice. You should pick a cabin that will provide minimal movement. On the majority of ships, this means staying away from any cabins located right at the front and back of the ship. Ideally, select a cabin lower down on the ship and in a mid-ship location. You can also try to prevent sea sickness by purchasing sea sick bands if you are prone to motion sickness in the air or car.

• Can I smoke onboard?

  Smoking restrictions onboard cruise ships have become tougher over the last several years as just about every cruise line has followed in the same direction. With one or two exceptions, smoking is no longer allowed in your stateroom or on your balcony. All other indoor public spaces are also deemed to be smoke free with the exception of the casino and the cigar lounge if your ship has one on most ships. Whilst it varies from cruise line to cruise and ship, smoking is typically permitted in designated outdoor areas. These areas are located on a specific side of the ship or location.

• Can the cruise line change my itinerary?

  While cruise lines open itineraries for booking a year or two before the actual sailing date, many unforeseen circumstances can arise that force them to alter the itinerary. If something like stormy weather on the scheduled route or a ship requires unscheduled maintenance, a sailing can be altered or cancelled. When you book a cruise you are agreeing to the terms and conditions set out by that cruise line wherein which it will state that the cruise line has the right to alter your itinerary, or even miss a port of call and unless the cruise is cancelled, no compensation will be paid.

• Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?

  Cruise lines have started forbidding guests from bringing drinks like soft drinks and bottled water onboard. If you are caught bringing alcohol you purchased whilst in port, security will confiscate and return it when you disembark the ship.

• Can the ship leave without me?

  Yes it can although many attempts will be made to try and locate the you first. If you can’t be located, the ship’s security will likely collect belongings from your stateroom including items from your safe and they will be left with the port’s agent. If you are on an excursion provided by the cruise line and it is late, then it is more likely that the ship will wait but not always. The cruise line however, will be responsible for getting you to the next port of call, at no expense to yourself, if it is late in returning you to the ship.

• Can I bring an iron?

  No, due to the risk of fire. If you want to press your clothes you will either need to use the self-service laundry room if the ship has one or pay to have it done for you.

• Will I have to dress up?

  Not on Virgin Voyages. There are no formal nights.

• How do I pay for things onboard?

  The payment methods accepted onboard a cruise ship can vary depending on the cruise line and ship you're traveling with. However, most cruise ships utilize a cashless system that allows passengers to make purchases using their cruise card or key card.

• What is a tender?

  A tender is a small boat deployed to take passengers to shore when a ship is unable to dock because of either a lack of docking facilities or because the harbour is too shallow to take the ship. When the ship is properly docked guests are able to walk down a gangway and straight onto the pier. Cruise lines will often mark on their itineraries which ports are tendered and which are docked to allow the passenger to decide if the cruise is right for them.

• What is a muster drill?

  A muster drill, also known as a lifeboat drill or a safety drill, is a mandatory safety procedure that takes place on cruise ships before or shortly after departure. The purpose of the muster drill is to familiarize passengers with the ship's emergency procedures and to ensure that everyone knows what to do in the event of an emergency, such as a fire or a ship evacuation.