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We’ve compiled some helpful FAQs to ensure you have all the information you need while enjoying your cruise holiday. From onboard smoking policies and internet access to dining options and shopping, our guide will provide clarity on what to expect once you set sail. Whether you're looking to stay connected, make purchases, or book your next cruise, these details will help you make the most of your time aboard.
Yes, you can smoke on a cruise ship, but only in designated areas. Smoking policies differ by cruise line and ship, so it’s advisable to check with your cruise operator before you depart.
Smoking is prohibited in cabins due to fire hazards and is generally not allowed in most indoor public spaces, including restaurants, bars, casinos, and theatres.
You can usually smoke in designated areas on open decks, such as the port side of the pool decks or the forward starboard section. Some cruise lines also offer cigar lounges or other smoking areas.
Vaping is permitted in designated areas on most major cruise lines and is typically treated the same as smoking cigarettes.
Most mainstream cruise lines provide a laundry service for a fee, while some luxury cruise lines include this service in their offerings. To get more information about the specific facilities available on your ship, please check on your cruise line’s website or ask at the time of booking.
Yes, most modern cruise ships have WiFi for passengers, but you'll usually need to pay for access, unless it’s stated as complimentary. Each cruise line has its own way of offering internet access, and the quality of service may vary.
Some LoveitBookit cruise holiday packages include WiFi as part of the fare. This information will be clearly outlined in the “what’s included” section on our website and in our television show, so be sure to check before you book. It will also specify the typeof WiFi package included. For more details on the internet access provided, you can refer to your Cruise Line’s website.
Once you’ve made your booking, your confirmation and travel tickets will include information about the WiFi package associated with your cruise.
If WiFi is not included, you have the option to add a WiFi package or upgrade your current one if desired. Please note that WiFi options vary by cruise line in terms of pricing and offerings, so we recommend checking your Cruise Line’s website for specific details. You can manage changes through the Cruise Line app or by calling us at 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), and we’ll be happy to assist you.
If you haven't purchased a WiFi package or it isn't included with your cruise, you can still connect to the internet using your phone's mobile data service, provided you're not too far from shore. Be sure to keep your phone in airplane mode while cruising, and remember to turn off data roaming to avoid hefty charges on your phone bill. However, keep in mind that access may be limited when you're out at sea.
Yes, nearly all cruise ships feature duty-free shops. These shops are typically open only when the ship is in international waters and not subject to local taxes.
Duty-free items are generally cheaper than those purchased in local shops because they are sold without local import taxes. Common duty-free items include alcohol, cigarettes, jewellery, makeup, fragrance, and clothing.
Check your cruise line’s website or app for information on the shops available onboard. Additionally, look out for the ship’s daily newsletter delivered to your stateroom and signs in the shops for details on any upcoming sales!
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included on all cruise ships. However, when the ship is in port, or on embarkation and debarkation days, meal options may be limited, so it’s advisable to check your ship’s specific policy for those days. Debarkation day typically includes breakfast.
The main dining room typically has designated mealtimes, but parts of the buffet are always open. You'll often find a café or pizza/grill area that operates around the clock. Additionally, room service is available for those who prefer to snack or graze.
It’s important to note that only meals served in the main dining room, or the buffet are always included. Many cruise lines also offer a variety of specialty restaurants that come with an additional charge. Depending on the length of your holiday and the cruise line, you may receive one or two visits to these specialty restaurants included in your fare.
Most cruise lines provide three dining options for the main dining room: early seating, late seating, and anytime dining. Early seating usually occurs around 6:00pm, while late seating may begin around 8:30pm. Anytime dining offers the flexibility to eat when it suits you within a specified timeframe. Additionally, you can enjoy meals at the buffet whenever it is open, giving you even more flexibility in your dining schedule.
When you book your cruise, dining times and table sizes will be discussed and pre-booked, and if you book in advance, you'll typically have the opportunity to choose from all three options.
If you would like to discuss your dining time preferences in more detail, please feel free to call us on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), and we’ll be happy to assist you.
All cruise lines operate on a cashless system for onboard purchases. To make purchases on a cruise ship, you will use a cruise card, which typically serves as both your room key and identification. You can link your cruise card to a debit or credit account before boarding to streamline your transactions.
Some cruise lines also offer wearable technology, such as wristbands or medallions, for managing payments and enhancing security.
While most transactions are cashless, some cruise lines do allow you to settle your onboard account with cash. To do this, you'll need to visit the onboard reception either the evening before your final disembarkation or early on disembarkation day.
Most cruise lines operate on a cashless system, so it's important to determine which card and account you'll use for payments.
Each cruise line has its own official onboard currency (OBC), so be sure to check your cruise line’s website for this information before your departure.
The currency you should bring on your cruise will depend on your destinations:
For more advice on this matter, feel free to contact us on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2).
By booking your next cruise at the 'Future Cruise' desk while onboard, you can enjoy exclusive discounts and offers only available at sea, such as Onboard Credit and special savings.
You can book any cruise with the same cruise line, whether it’s a different ship, destination, or duration. While onboard bookings are for Cruise Only, LoveitBookit can then turn your reservation into a complete package when you return, adding extras like pre- or post-cruise hotel stays, flights, transfers, or custom land tours to create yourperfect bespoke package holiday.
If you’d like to arrange these extras after your cruise, just give us a call on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), and we’ll incorporate them into your booking or we’ll be in touch to assist.
Unfortunately, there won’t be a LoveitBookit representative onboard your cruise. However, should you need to speak to someone from our team, we do have an Out of Hours emergency phone line available for you to reach us regarding your holiday.
You can contact us 24/7 by calling 0203 393 1003 (Option 2) during our regular hours of 8:30am to 6pm on weekdays and 9:30am to 6pm on Saturdays, or by calling 0203 393 1024 at any other time.
The primary language spoken on most cruise ships is English, as it is the international language used for communication among crew and passengers. However, many cruise lines also accommodate a diverse range of nationalities and may have staff who speak multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Italian, and others, depending on the cruise line and its itineraries.
For specific language offerings on your cruise ship, it’s best to check with your cruise line prior to departure.
Most cruise lines have policies that prohibit passengers from bringing alcohol on board. However, some do allow guests to bring a limited amount on embarkation day, often with a corkage fee if consumed on the ship.
According to regulations, only alcohol purchased onboard may be consumed during the cruise. Any alcohol bought ashore will be stored by the crew and returned at the end of your trip. If you're returning to the UK from an EU country, there's no limit on Duty-Free goods, as long as they're for personal use.
For more information on this matter, please refer to your cruise line’s website.
The Dress Code onboard a cruise varies depending on the cruise line, please check out our First Time Cruisers guides for your specific cruise line.
Most cruise cabins come with a safe where you can store small valuables like jewellery, cash, and important documents. If you have larger items or prefer additional security, some ships offer safe deposit boxes or alternative storage options through guest services.
For specific details about onboard storage, check with your cruise line or refer to your cabin's amenities.
All cruise lines are equipped to accommodate food allergies, intolerances, and special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific diets.
It's a good idea to inform the cruise line of your needs before your trip, you can do this by calling our Customer Service team on 0203 393 1003 (Option 2), and we’ll add a note to your booking.
For detailed information and options available on your cruise, check with your cruise line directly or visit their website.
Many cruise lines offer room service, but availability, menu options, and fees can vary. Some cruise lines provide complimentary room service, while others may charge a fee, especially for late-night orders or certain menu items.
For specific details on room service, including hours and costs, it's best to check with your cruise line or refer to the information provided in your cabin
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