The big cruise FAQ: your questions answered

You asked. We answered. The team at World of Cruising and our sister publication Cruise Trade News have pooled our knowledge to address the top 10 most common cruise-related queries we receive to make your next adventure at sea 100 per cent stress-free. 

How do cruise lines ensure I’m safe while onboard?

A cruise is one of the safest ways to holiday, thanks to an abundance of regulations. Your voyage will begin with a mandatory muster drill, which provides all the information you need in an emergency. You’ll gather in a designated spot on the ship and listen to instructions, such as how to put your life jacket on and where to go in the event of an evacuation. Usually, these details are available in video form on the TV in your stateroom (cabin). Security guards and lifeguards are also on board. As for navigating around the ship, rest assured that the railings are tall enough to protect you from the high seas, and the lifeboats are always in your line of sight. Lastly, all crew members are trained in health and safety, so you’ll have a helping hand if needed.

Lucy Abbott, digital content producer 

Can I take my pet with me on a cruise?

Unfortunately, you usually have to leave your furry loved ones on solid ground. However, if you can’t bear to be away from your pets, book Cunard’s Queen Mary II – the world’s only cruise ship that allows cats and dogs onboard. Pets stay in kennels on deck 12, and crew members provide food, walks and playtime. Owners can visit their pets during set hours and have access to an owner’s lounge. There are only 24 kennels, however, so book in advance. Special dispensation is made on most other vessels for service animals.

Sarah Riches, editor 

Is there a limit on luggage?  

Despite varying rules between cruise lines, it’s generally accepted that there isn’t a set limit on how much luggage you can take onboard. P&O Cruises, for example, says you can take “as many bags as you can fit in your cabin” as long as each item weighs no more than 23kg. MSC Cruises lets each passenger take two suitcases and two pieces of hand luggage, and Royal Caribbean International simply encourages passengers to “be reasonable”. Before you get carried away and pack everything and the kitchen sink, bear in mind your pre and post-cruise travel arrangements, such as flights, which come with their own luggage rules.  

Will Payne, deputy editor 

What happens if I have a medical emergency onboard?

It depends on the emergency. Reassuringly, all ships have medical facilities and staff to treat ailments and injuries. Small ships usually have one doctor and two nurses, while larger ones can have up to three doctors and six nurses. Onboard medical staff can deal with anything from bruises to heart attacks. Of course, there are occasions when the medical facilities are insufficient, and the doctor must order a medical evacuation. How this happens depends on the ship’s location, the severity of the condition and the location of the nearest facility to adequately treat the patient. Based on these factors, the captain decides to continue to the next port, divert to a nearer one or request an airlift for the patient. But whatever the situation, the crew will do their utmost to ensure your well-being and speedy recovery. Always take out comprehensive travel insurance with additional cruise cover.

Raphael Giacardi, head of content publishing 

Will I get bored during sea days?

In short, no. Entire days spent at sea are anything but boring – so much so that veteran cruise-goers often seek out itineraries that feature several. Sea days represent a chance to do as much or as little as you please. If you’re in the latter camp, you might enjoy cocktails with new friends or curl up in your cabin to read a book from the onboard library. You can also watch the scenic drama unfold from the deck – on an Alaska ‘Inside Passage’ sailing, I spent a whole day admiring the snow-capped mountains and turquoise-tinted icebergs with binoculars. Alternatively, get stuck into the activities advertised in the daily onboard newsletters. These can range from cookery classes to trivia contests and painting workshops. Other ideas include hitting the gym or jogging track, pampering yourself in the spa or watching a live show.  

Kaye Holland, senior digital editor 

Is cruising suitable for solo travellers?

Cruising is arguably a better means of travel for singles than a traditional land-based break, thanks to the ease of travelling at sea. You only unpack once, and multiple restaurants, bars and activities are a short walk away. Some cruise lines also have tailored excursions for solo travellers. Most of the time, they’re pre-planned and guided, with transfers to and from the ship included. As a solo traveller, you have the freedom to be as social as you like. Nearly all solo-friendly lines, such as Riviera Travel, offer a programme of optional activities designed for singles to mingle. As always, check your operator’s solo travel policy before booking to avoid being stung by hidden costs for single sailors.

Will Payne, deputy editor

What happens if the ship runs into technical problems?

Technical problems occur from time to time, irrespective of how well-maintained a ship is. All cruise lines reserve the right in their terms and conditions to alter an itinerary if the issues mean that the cruise can’t continue as advertised. However, under UK consumer legislation, package travel organisers are responsible for the delivery of the product sold. If a significant proportion of the package can’t be delivered, the cruise operator will make alternative arrangements at no extra cost. Should these arrangements not be considered, reasonably, to be equivalent to the original package or can’t be offered, customers can expect compensation. This may take the form of onboard credit or a discounted future cruise. Customers are asked to claim compensation promptly. Package travel arrangements, including a flight, must be offered with ATOL protection when sold in the UK.  

Lee Hayhurst, editorial director 

Are river cruises suitable for young children?

While some river cruise itineraries are reserved for adults, a selection of river operators such as A-Rosa River Cruises, CroisiEurope and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises have sailings designed for families. An A-Rosa family cruise, for example, includes a Kids’ Club and family-specific excursions such as a visit to Comic Station in Antwerp. What’s more, children up to and including 15 travel for free when accompanied by at least one supervising adult, based on a deck one cabin. Another benefit of a river cruise is the smaller ship size, which makes it harder for little ones to get lost.  

Will Payne, deputy editor 

What’s the best way to book a cruise?

Edge Class ships (a type of Celebrity Cruises ship), inside staterooms (cabins without a window) and ex-UK cruises (sailings from the UK) – the first hurdle for first-timer cruisers to overcome is deciphering industry lingo. It’s important to get your head around these concepts so you can decide what style of ship or size of cabin aligns with your taste and budget. Websites such as worldofcruising.co.uk are chock-full of helpful articles explaining the differences between boutique cruises (small ship sailings) and luxury cruises (itineraries with luxury perks, like butlers or in-suite dining) or why purchasing a drinks package beforehand can sometimes save you money, while the new World of Cruising TV YouTube channel shares an in-depth look at life onboard. Once you have an idea of what kind of cruise you’re looking for, hunt for deals on worldofcruising.co.uk or pop into your local travel agent, who’ll often know where to find the best savings.

Jack Carter, Cruise Trade News’ editor 

What should I take on excursions?

While cruise lines often recommend leaving your passport in your cabin safe as you don’t need it to get back on board, it’s best practice to keep it with you while ashore – if you miss the ship or run into trouble, you’ll need proof of identity. Both scenarios are unlikely, but it’s wise to prepare for worst-case scenarios in case things don’t go your way. Remember to take cash and bank cards too, plus suncream and a hat if you’re in a warm climate.  

Will Payne, deputy editor