Prepare to Sail

A full British passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the end of your holiday, not including any additional months past ten years from the issue date) is required for travel.

It is your personal responsibility to ensure that your passport is valid and up to date for your travel plans. Check the expiration date well in advance of your trip to avoid any last-minute issues and renew it if necessary

It is essential to ensure you have the correct travel documents, including visas and other permits, before embarking on your cruise. Your specific passport, visa, and immigration requirements depend on the destinations included in your itinerary, as well as your nationality. These are your personal responsibility, and you should verify all requirements with the relevant embassies or consulates well in advance of your trip.

• Visa Requirements: Depending on the countries you're visiting, you may need a visa to enter. For example, if your cruise includes destinations like India, China, the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or several other non-EU or non-UK locations, a visa will likely be required. Some countries also require specific electronic travel authorisations, such as the ESTA for the United States.
• Where to Check: To determine if a visa is needed for any of the places on your cruise itinerary, you should consult the latest information available through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). This office provides up-to-date travel advice and can guide you on specific requirements for each country. You can visit their website for detailed information and advice on visa applications, travel warnings, and other essential travel-related updates.
• Note on Processing Time: It is highly recommended that you apply for any required visas or permits well in advance, as processing times can vary. Failure to obtain the necessary documents could result in denied boarding or entry at certain ports, which could disrupt your holiday.

Our Customer Service team can provide more information about your necessary travel permits on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2).

You can easily manage your cruise by creating an account on your cruise line’s official website. This account lets you view and modify your booking and personalise your trip by adding extras like drinks package upgrades or dining reservations. Most cruise lines also offer mobile apps, which make it convenient to handle your holiday on the go. Through the app, you can:

• View your itinerary and check daily activities.
• Book excursions in advance and secure your spots for exciting shore adventures.
• Make dining reservations at specialty restaurants or select meal times.
• Check-in before your cruise, upload travel documents, and even generate a mobile boarding pass.
• Manage onboard spending and add payment methods

If you’d like to upgrade your cabin after your initial booking, we’d be delighted to check availability and pricing and assist you with your request. If upgrades are available, our team is here to help you navigate the options. Please contact our Customer Service team on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), to discuss your upgrade possibilities.

We recommend booking your excursions directly through the cruise line’s website or app for convenience and peace of mind. If you need assistance, feel free to contact us on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2).

It's always best to book excursions in advance rather than waiting until you're onboard, as popular tours can sell out quickly. Booking early ensures you get your preferred activities and avoids any potential disappointment.

We recommend booking your speciality dining directly through the cruise line’s website or app for ease and convenience. For assistance, feel free to contact us at 0203 393 1003 (Option 2).

Booking in advance ensures you secure your preferred dining times and locations, helping you avoid disappointment. Alternatively, you can visit the speciality restaurants on the first day of your cruise to make reservations, though availability may be limited at that point.

You can book spa treatments either onboard the ship or through the cruise line’s "Manage My Booking" portal before your cruise. Most services can be arranged after you embark, but keep in mind that spa treatments are chargeable, and prices vary by cruise line and ship. It's a good idea to check pricing with your cruise line ahead of time to plan accordingly.

Most cruise lines do not automatically include gratuities in the total cost of your cruise fare. Instead, gratuities for services such as dining staff, cabin attendants, and other onboard personnel are typically added to your onboard account or expected to be paid separately.

However, policies regarding gratuities can vary depending on the cruise line and the type of cruise you have booked. Some cruise lines may offer all-inclusive packages that incorporate gratuities, while others might allow you to pre-pay gratuities at the time of booking for added convenience.

During the booking process, you will be notified if gratuities are included in your cruise fare. If you have any questions or need more information regarding gratuities, feel free to reach out to us on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2).

Generally, gratuities will be charged to your account during the cruise and will need to be settled when you finalise your bill on the last day. However, most cruise lines offer the option to pre-pay gratuities in advance.

Pre-paid gratuities cover the standard daily service charge added to your cruise account, but they do not include any additional service fees for one-time purchases made during your cruise, such as drinks or speciality dining.

To pre-pay your gratuities, please contact us on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), and we will help you add this option to your booking. If you do not pre-pay gratuities before sailing, they will automatically be added to your account once you are onboard.

Most LoveitBookit cruise holiday packages include a drinks package as part of the fare. This information will be clearly stated in the “what’s included” section on our website and on our television show, so be sure to check before you book. It will also indicate the specific type of drinks package included. For details on the beverages covered, you can refer to your Cruise Line’s website.

Once you’ve made your booking, your booking confirmation and travel tickets will provide information about the drinks package associated with your cruise.

If a drinks package is not included, you have the option to add one or upgrade your current package if you prefer. Please note that drinks package options vary by cruise line in terms of pricing and offerings, so we suggest checking your Cruise Line’s website for specific information. You can make changes through the Cruise Line app or by calling us on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Yes, we recommend pre-booking your parking with ABP Parking in Southampton. For more information, visit www.abparking.co.uk

Please note that each cruise line uses a specific terminal and car park, so make sure to book for the correct ship and travel dates.

Each car park is a dedicated facility located right next to your cruise terminal, offering convenient access and a clear view of your ship.

It’s often a challenge to prepare everything you need without overpacking. When packing for your cruise, consider bringing the following essentials. Be sure to check your cruise line’s specific dress codes and guidelines, as they can vary.

• Clothing and Toiletries: First off, start with the basics: think of what you plan to wear everyday. Research about the port you’re visiting and plan your fits accordingly with the destination’s weather in mind. Keep in mind to also check the specified dress code of your cruise line as you might need to bring formal wear for themed evenings. A tip from us: Bring a pair of comfortable flats that can go with either your casual or formal attire.
• Documents, Medications, and Electronics: Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport, cruise tickets, insurance details, and any required visas. Pack any medications you may need during your trip. For electronics, bring chargers for your devices, a camera to capture memories, and a portable charger for charging on the go.
• Excursion Essentials: For your time onshore, consider packing a small backpack for carrying essentials during excursions. A reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated, and accessories like sunglasses and hats will protect you from the sun. A small first-aid kit and hand sanitiser are also wise additions to ensure you’re prepared for any situation.

The type of adapter you'll need depends on the cruise line and the ship’s country of origin. Cruise ships typically have a mix of US, European, or UK sockets, or sometimes just one type. It's best to check your Cruise Line’s website for specific information on the power outlets available onboard.

Consider investing in a universal adapter that works with American, European, Australian, and UK plugs. Many modern ships are also equipped with USB charging ports for added convenience. 

If you forget to bring an adapter, most cruise ships have them available for purchase onboard.

Most cruise cabins come with safes, low-wattage hair dryers, telephones, minibars or minifridges (fees may apply), TVs, basic toiletries, and stationery. Some also offer robes and slippers, which may need to be requested. Life jackets are provided in your room as well.

Clothes irons are prohibited due to fire risks, but laundry and pressing services are typically available. Unlike hotel rooms, most cabins don’t include alarm clocks or tea/coffee stations.

For details on what's included in your specific cabin, check the Cabin Facilities section on our website for your ship and cabin type.