In General
Booking your Soul Singles at Sea cruise
The onboard experience
Preparing for your cruise
General questions
Can I afford your Soul Singles at Sea cruises?
If you can afford to take a regular hotel-based vacation for the same number of days as the cruise, you can surely afford to take Soul Singles at Sea cruise vacations. There are several cruises available to select from, in various price ranges -- on each cruise, you can select a stateroom from the Interior cabins (budget) to the Suites (luxury) and in between -- all represent a great value for your vacation dollars.
Most importantly, when wondering if you can afford it, please know that all Soul Singles at Sea cruises are planned far enough in advance to allow you to pay for your cruise on a lay-away plan: Place a deposit then make weekly or monthly payments, at your leisure, until paid in full. If you prefer a more structured or automatic payment plan, our cruise counselors are happy to assist. [top]
What is included?
Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise price, as with most all cruises, includes your cabin, cabin stewards, all meals (from standard dining to afternoon tea to midnight buffets!), entertainment from comedy shows to full-fledged Las Vegas style productions, cruise line parties, a group welcome aboard party with complimentalry cocktails, group gatherings with games to include the ever popular Speed Dating / Speed Meeting, and depending on the group's interest, additional games and dancing, and, of course, all transportation between all the ports on your itinerary. On most ships, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks/sodas, spa treatments, shops, and optional shore excursions are not included in the basic price.
[top]
Are cruises really suitable for us single travelers?
Absolutely! That's the whole purpose behind Soul Singles at Sea -- allowing singles to travel with a group of others who are all single as well. We have exclusive singles cocktail parties, mixers, games, arranged group excursions, SSAS group dining and more! With the companionship of a group of like-minded singles, you are never alone, unless you want to be.
In addition to the awesome camaraderie that develops within the group, most cruise lines host fun dances and events to make it easy for us singles to meet and mingle with one another.
Our last SSAS cruise was on the NCL Epic which offered single cabins, and most cruise lines offer a single supplement rate for double staterooms. [top]
Are cruises really that popular?
Absolutely! As anyone who has cruised before can tell you, once you have been on a cruise, you're hooked! Millions of people cruise each year and they always give the highest customer satisfaction ratings among ALL vacation categories.
[top]
Booking your Soul Singles at Sea cruise
How do I book a cruise?
The hardest part of booking a cruise with us is deciding which of the awesome cruise destinations you prefer! After viewing our exclusive list of SSAS cruises, as well as other cruises, fill out the Registration Form and we will call you to complete your registration by phone. Or, if you prefer, you can skip the registration form and give us a call directly. A cruise counselor will arrange everything for you, verify availability and answer all of your questions.
[top]
Is airfare included in my cruise price?
No, prices listed are for the cruise only, but our cruise counselors can provide an air-inclusive price upon request. Additionally, cruise lines usually offer airfare as well but in most instances their pricing is higher than normal. We recommend you arrange your own airfare as there is a $25 fee for the agency to book it for you. If you do not mind the additional charge, your cruise counselor will gladly provide an air-inclusive price.
[top]
How do I pay for my cruise?
You may pay for your cruise via debit or credit card: Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express. Please note that cash is not accepted at any time for deposit or payment of your cruise. (Please be leary of anyone accepting cash payments directly to them.) Cash payment is against our agency contract and personal checks or money orders are do-able but they have quite a delayed processing time.
If you do not have (or do not want to use) a credit or debit card, please purchase a prepaid credit card, such as visa or mastercard, and load it with the amount of your payment(s). Prepaid cards work the same as personal cards for cruise payments. Your credit card statement will reflect direct billing from Cruises and Tours Unltd and/or the cruise line. [top]
How do I pay my initial deposit?
When booking far enough in advance to make payments, your initial deposit is due upon registration and may be paid with any major credit card.
Deposits vary by cruise line and cruise, but are usually a flat rate averaging around $250. When you select a specific cruise, we will tell you exactly how much is required for the deposit. However, when registering far enough in advance, you may pay a lower amount for the initial deposit, as long as the balance is paid within the specified time.
Watch for limited time specials which allow smaller deposit amounts to reserve your stateroom on the cruise of your choice.
After you have placed the initial deposit to secure your reservation, you will be asked to make monthly payments to insure the remaining balance of your fare is paid at, or before, the final payment due date. Depending on the cruise line, this final payment date can be anywhere from 60 to 90 days before sailing. If you book your cruise within the final payment period, you will be required to pay in full at time of booking in order to secure your reservation. [top]
When will I receive my cruise tickets?
Cruise tickets are finalized by the cruiseline when after all cabins have been booked so you can expect to receive them approximately one week before departure. Please note that most cruise lines now send tickets as electronic documents, or edocs, which will be accessible online or through e-mail. Luggage tags are available at the pier. Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor will discuss ticket delivery options with you at the time of booking.
[top]
Do you have Military or other discounts?
Yes, discounts are usually available.
Click here for more information on discount pricing.
[top]
Can the cruise lines change my itinerary after booking?
Although a change in itinerary is rare, it can happen for a variety of reasons, including weather and safety concerns. Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor will notify you if an itinerary change occurs after booking.
[top]
What if I have to cancel?
Unfortunately, things do happen and sometimes cancellation cannot be avoided. Please notify your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor immediately of any cancellations or changes. Please note that refund and cancellation policies vary by cruise line and penalties generally increase as the sail date approaches. You may be eligible for a full refund after cancellation, less a $50 administrative fee, only if you cancel within the cruise line's designated time period.
Cruise lines do not make exceptions regarding cancellation charges and you never know when the unforseen may happen, as such we strongly recommend that passengers secure appropriate cancellation / trip insurance. Click here for more information on insurance. [top]
What is a cabin category?
A cabin category is the ranking a cruise line has given a group of cabins based on their size, amenities, deck level and location. These factors also help to determine price and, as such, there is normally a price range for various categories of the exact same stateroom.
[top]
What is an upgrade?
An upgrade is when you pay for one category but receive a higher category from the cruise line at no additional cost. Upgrades may also be purchased as long as the category you are requesting is available.
[top]
What are transfers?
Transfers are motorcoach transportation provided by the cruise line between the airport and the cruise pier. Transfers are most often paid for and arranged prior to your cruise, although sometimes they can be purchased in the airport with the help of a cruise line representative. There is generally a fee for this service, which varies depending on the cruise line and the cruise departure city. Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor will verify the cost of transfers upon request.
If staying at the pre-cruise hotel, transfer fees will be included inn with your hotel group rate so that you will not have to concern yourself with arranging transfers. Upon registration, please let your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor know if you intend to join the pre-cruise hotel group so that she can arrange for your transfers. [top]
Preparing for your cruise
What should I bring?
You'll want to bring comfortable, casual clothing for daytime onboard and in port, and swimsuits and workout clothes for pools, Jacuzzis, saunas and health clubs.
Shipboard dress is casual during the day. Shorts and tasteful T-shirts are acceptable even in the dining room. At dinner, dress codes will vary daily, among the following:
Casual: Slacks and sport shirt for men (no jeans); slacks and blouse, sundress or pantsuit for women.
Informal: Jacket with or without tie for men; dress or pantsuit for women.
Formal: Dark suit or tuxedo for men; evening gown or cocktail dress for women.
Most 7-night cruises have 2 formal nights; most 10-night cruises have 3 formal nights, etc. Generally, the longer and more expensive cruises will be the most formal on formal night, but a dark suit and tie is acceptable attire on even the most exclusive ships. (In other words, don't buy a tuxedo).
You'll also want to consider the type of shore excursion you plan to take and pack the appropriate accessories, such as hiking boots, ponchos or rain gear, fleece jackets or snorkel gear. Also remember to pack all medications and prescriptions in your carry-on luggage. And of course, don't forget your hat, sunscreen and sunglasses for sunny days on deck. [top]
How much luggage can I bring?
This depends on whether or not you're flying. The airlines have stricter requirements than any of the cruise lines, so you'll want to check with them first to make sure you travel within their guidelines. However, most cruise lines do not place limits on luggage. Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor can verify this information for any cruise line at the time of booking.
[top]
Will I need a passport?
Not always but we strongly recommend that all cruise passengers travel with a valid passport. On some cruises departing from U.S. ports, U.S. citizens can get by with a certified copy of a birth certificate and a driver's license or government-issued photo I.D., but on the great majority of departures, a passport is required. Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor will advise you on documents you will need depending on your itinerary.
How long does it take to get a passport?
The government says it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to obtain a passport, although processing times can vary. For more information on passport requirements, or info on how to apply or renew your passport, click
here .
[top]
Can I bring my own hairdryer?
Most ships have 110-volt outlets in every cabin, which will accommodate U.S.-built hairdryers and electric shavers. Most new ships provide hairdryers as well.
[top]
Can I bring an iron onboard?
No, most cruise lines do not allow irons in cabins due to the fire hazard they pose onboard. Laundry or dry-cleaning services are usually available and some lines provide irons in self-serve laundromats.
[top]
Can I bring alcohol/bottled water/sodas onboard?
Most cruise lines do not allow alcohol, or any other beverages or coolers, to be brought onboard ships. However, some lines do allow individual guests, over their minimum drinking age, to bring one bottle of wine or champagne onboard, which can be opened at dinner by your waiter for a corkage fee. Any bottles of wine or liquor purchased in duty-free shops in port or onboard the ship will be stored onboard until the conclusion of your cruise.
[top]
Is there parking available at the pier?
Yes, parking is generally available at the pier; however, pricing is set by the Port Authority in each city and is subject to change. Your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor can provide you with driving directions and parking information with your confirmation.
[top]
How early should I arrive for boarding?
The cruise line requires passengers to be onboard the ship at least one hour prior to departure. Soul Singles at Sea strongly recommends that you arrive at the pier at least two (2) hours before the scheduled departure of your cruise so you will have ample time to check in and board.
If you join us at the pre-cruise hotel the day before, the timing will not be a concern as your shuttle to the pier will arrive in plenty of time. [top]
What happens if I miss the ship?
Please do not miss the ship; it is too much of an investment in time, money and good times to miss the ship! However, if something happens and you do miss the ship, you can meet the ship in the next port-of-call. Keep in mind that purchasing airfare through the cruise line usually provides more protection in the event of flight delays or cancellations that may prevent you from getting to the ship on time. Also, since cruise lines do not make exceptions regarding cancellation charges, we strongly recommend that passengers secure appropriate cancellation/trip insurance to protect your investment in the event that you miss the ship.
Click here for more information on insurance.
[top]
The onboard experience
Will I feel bored or confined onboard?
Never! Think of a cruise ship as a floating resort on par with any Las Vegas megahotel. Onboard activities begin at dawn and go into the wee hours of the night. The scenery is constantly changing, and every port is filled with new and exciting opportunities for exploration.
[top]
What can I do on a ship?
That depends on the ship, but generally the larger ships will have the most activities. You may wish to lounge on deck by the pool with a good book, join the book club, on Princess find your passion by taking a ScholarShip@Sea® class on cooking, ceramics, photography and more. Shop the Duty-Free Boutiques, sign up for exercise classes, swim, play trivia games, play bingo or bridge, gamble in the casino, take in a Broadway-style floor show or a magician's act or a comedy act, enter a talent show or a putting contest, take a dance class, get a massage, attend a lecture and the list goes on.
[top]
What is a Day at Sea or Sea Day?
A Day at Sea or Sea Day is a full day spent sailing between two ports. Soul Singles at Sea activities are only on Sea Days, other than if taking excusions together.
[top]
Where is the best place to stay on a ship?
This is definitely a matter of personal preference, and many cruisers are not particularly concerned with cabin location. Here are some things to keep in mind.
- Balcony cabins allow you to experience the outdoors without leaving the comfort of your cabin. This is particularly nice on our itineraries where you will have an opportunity to spend a great deal of time viewing scenery from the ship at each port.
- Although oceanview cabins do not allow you access to fresh air they do allow natural light to come in.
- Inside cabins are the least expensive cabins on the ships.
Staterooms located on lower decks in the middle of the ship tend to minimize the feel of movement, and cruise lines price cabins according to their location, like real estate. So, for instance, if your cabin is mid-ship or close to main attractions like pools and restaurants, you'll usually pay more for it. [top]
Will I get seasick?
Very unlikely! Ships today are equipped with state-of-the-art stabilizers designed to minimize movement, but unfortunately some guests still become ill. Also, ship motion is more prevalent on certain itineraries, like Trans-Atlantic crossings. There are several over-the-counter and prescription treatments for sea-sickness on the market now, as well as accupressure point wristbands, so if you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend that you discuss preventative measures with your doctor or local pharmacist.
[top]
What's a shore excursion?
That's a term that refers to anything you do off the ship, in port. At every stop, you'll have the option of exploring the area on your own and at your own pace, or explore the area while hanging out with other members of our gruop, or if you opt to purchase an excursion as part of a group with a planned itinerary there are many activities and events at porty.
[top]
Is Internet service available?
Yes, absolutely! You can stay connected to friends and family 24 hours a day on most ships, and many have wireless network connections allowing the use of your personal laptop in your stateroom or in various public areas throughout a ship. Most cruise lines provide Internet cafes onboard allowing guests continuous access to computers with e-mail and Internet capability for a fee per minute.
[top]
Can I use my cell phone on a ship?
Yes, on most ships. Many cruise lines have installed technology to make the use of cell phones at sea possible. Keep in mind that international roaming charges will apply. Contact your cell phone carrier for more details.
[top]
Which dining time should I choose?
As a group, we will have our own regular dining area and time. However, if you opt to dine elsewhere, that is your choice. Like cabin location, this is a matter of preference. Consider your itinerary. If you're going to be at port all day, you may want to allow extra time to unwind and relax before dressing for dinner, so late dining may be a better choice. However, if you enjoy a ship's evening entertainment, you may want to dine early enough to get in a show or listen to a great speaker. Whatever you decide, keep in mind that alternative dining venues are usually available to work with your schedule.
[top]
What is traditional cruise ship dining?
Traditional dining means that you have a set dining schedule and are seated with the same guests and attended to by the same wait staff every evening. Many passengers prefer traditional dining due to the level of personalized service each guest receives from their waiter and assistant waiters.
[top]
What is open dining?
This is a relatively new concept for most lines allowing guests the ability to choose their own evening dining time. Norwegian, Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, and most luxury lines now allow their passengers to dine whenever and with whomever they choose. Breakfast and lunch are almost always open seating.
[top]
What is the dress code for dinner?
There are three typical dress codes aboard ships -- casual, informal and formal. Most cruise lines incorporate a combination of these into their evening schedules. The more upscale, luxury lines have adopted an elegant casual, or country-club casual dress code on their ships. .
Casual: Slacks and sport shirt for men (no jeans); slacks and blouse, sundress or pantsuit for women.
Informal: Jacket with or without tie for men; dress or pantsuit for women.
Formal: Dark suit or tuxedo for men; evening gown or cocktail dress for women. [top]
Do I have to participate in formal night?
Absolutely not! If you don't feel like bringing formal clothes when you cruise, rest assured you will not be the only one and you will definitely still eat! Just about every ship offers a variety of alternative dining options, including grills, buffet-style restaurants and room service, all of which you can opt for any night of your cruise.
[top]
Do I need to make reservations for the specialty restaurants?
Yes, usually reservations are required, and it is recommended that you make them on the first day of your cruise to ensure you get the day and time you want. Of course, you can still try to make reservations the same day. Keep in mind that most do not offer complimentary specialty dining, so a small surcharge will apply.
[top]
What if I have special dietary needs?
It's important to discuss any special dietary or medical needs you may have with your Soul Singles at Sea cruise counselor -- before booking -- to ensure you can be properly accommodated by the line you're considering. In most cases, cruise lines require additional documentation in writing, but usually they can easily accommodate requests for menu items that are low-sodium, low-cholesterol, low-fat or sugar-free.
[top]
How much should I tip?
There are anxiety-free set standards for tipping and most lines charge gratuities to your account automatically. If you feel this amount needs to be adjusted, whether increased or decreased, arrangements can be made onboard the ship, generally at the end of your cruise.
[top]
What happens during embarkation?
This is the boarding process all guests must go through at the beginning of the cruise. Each passenger's cruise ticket and passports and visas (if necessary) will be verified for travel at this time.
[top]
What happens during disembarkation?
This is the process at the end of the cruise to leave the ship. All guests will be required to meet with immigration, similar to the immigration process on the return of an international flight. This is also when passengers who checked their luggage the night prior will pick it up before exiting the cruise terminal.
[top]
What are the smoking policies onboard?
This varies depending on the cruise line. While most areas are non-smoking, most all allow smoking in designated areas.
[top]
