Finally ready to pack your bags for your first cruise? There are a few points to consider in advance to guarantee an exceptional trip.
Passport or visa: which papers are required?
It all depends on the destination. If you are a European Union national, avalid national identity card or passport is all you need for stopovers in member countries. A passport valid 6 months after return is required for certain cruises passing through Egypt and the West Indies, for example. Others, like the United States, require a visa. In all cases, you should check with your travel agency beforehand for each stopover.
Cruising and health: mandatory vaccinations?
For most cruises, no specific vaccinations are required, except for trips to certain tropical regions. It’s a good idea to check with the relevant health authorities, your tour operator and your GP at least 8 weeks before embarking, to find out what vaccinations you need and what precautions you should take. Indeed, if choosing the right cruise ship is imperative for a perfect trip, taking your health into account is just as important.
Why buy cancellation insurance?
If you are unable to go on a cruise and you have already paid all the fees, the agency will not refund your trip. If you have chosen to take out cancellation insurance, this may reimburse all or part of the cost of your trip.
Would you like to book earlier or prefer last-minute travel?
If you’d like to embark on a particular cruise on a specific date, book ahead. If you’re interested in a particular type of cabin, are traveling in a group and have already booked your flight tickets, it’s also a good idea to book in advance.
On the other hand, if you don’t have too many constraints in terms of departure and arrival dates, or cabin location, and you’re planning to go straight to the port of embarkation, a last-minute booking may be just what you’re looking for.
When can I book my excursions?
Often, a minimum number of participants is set for each excursion. Book as early as possible. Depending on the company, this can be done in advance or once on board the ship.
Other formalities to be mentioned if necessary
For people with reduced mobility, please specify this when booking. In fact, certain companies with infrastructures that meet their needs can direct them to more suitable cabins, for example, or offer them more suitable excursions. In all cases, people with reduced mobility must be accompanied by another person to assist them, and must bring their own wheelchair.
If you’re traveling with valuables, we recommend choosing a cabin with a mini safe. You can also place them in the purser’s office. Appropriate travel insurance is also recommended.
