SIGN UP TO RECEIVE VIP ACCESS TO OUR TOP DEALS, COMPETITIONS & TRAVEL INSPIRATION
SIGN UP TO RECEIVE VIP ACCESS TO OUR TOP DEALS
SIGN UP TO RECEIVE VIP ACCESS TO OUR TOP DEALS, COMPETITIONS & TRAVEL INSPIRATION
SIGN UP TO RECEIVE VIP ACCESS TO OUR TOP DEALS
We recommend that travel insurance is taken out immediately on booking your cruise to ensure cover from the date of confirmation. Please do not delay in obtaining this. Take out adequate insurance for your cruise and any activities you may plan to enjoy during shore excursions. Please ensure you declare any pre-existing medical conditions to your travel insurance company to ensure you are fully covered. It is also advisable to have proof of your policy if you are required to provide it.
Next you should make sure you check in. You can do this on the cruise line’s website (see below) or on the cruise line’s app, which will need to be downloaded. You should also print out your cruise e-tickets, boarding passes and luggage labels or download digital documents from the cruise line mobile app.
It’s also vital that you check your passport is valid and make sure that all of your information is correct on your reservation.
If required, you should also complete the cruise line’s health declaration or questionnaire and remember to check that the cruise line and Destination2Cruise has a copy of your contact details to be able to make you aware of any changes to your cruise.
You must also find out about any entry requirements for destinations included in your itinerary and if you need any vaccinations. It is your responsibility to check with the embassy/consulate of the country or countries to be visited for any entry requirements and to ensure you adhere to these.
You should also make sure you have the necessary proof of your COVID-19 vaccination status and, if required, you have organised a COVID-19 test to be able to provide proof of a negative result prior to boarding your cruise. Additionally, make sure you have plenty of face masks and hand sanitiser. Please check your cruise line’s website for the evidence and testing requirements.
Another thing to consider before your cruise, is what onboard activities, cruise extras (speciality dining, drinks, spa treatments etc) and shore excursions you wish to enjoy. It’s wise to book them prior to travel to avoid disappointment.
Finally, you should make sure you have printed out your cruise e-tickets, boarding passes and luggage labels or downloaded digital documents from the cruise line mobile app.
Cruise line apps have a number of great features that can be of use before and during your cruise. Before setting sail, you can use them to download your boarding passes and view import information about your voyage. You may also have the option to book activities and extras using the app. Visit your cruise line’s website for more details and to find out how you can download its app.
A guarantee cabin or stateroom is accommodation that you can book without being given a specific allocation. They are usually the cheapest fare option in the category that you select and will be allocated to you prior to your cruise. Booking a cabin this way guarantees you get a certain level of cabin, if not higher. However, it is unlikely you will be able to make requests on any special features.
There are four cruise terminals in the Port of Southampton, so you will need to check with your cruise line (see below) which one you will be sailing from. You can get to Southampton by rail, coach or drive yourself. There is also an airport close by, if you would prefer to fly.
Car
If you wish to drive, you should visit your cruise line’s website (see below) to find out which terminal you will be travelling from and the nearest car park.
Train
Southampton Central Train Station is a short taxi ride away from the Port of Southampton if you wish to go by rail.
Coach
A number of coach operators run services to and from the Port of Southampton in partnership with cruise lines. Visit your cruise line’s website (see below) for information.
Plane
Southampton Airport is approximately a 20-minute drive away from the port. Please visit the website to find out where you can fly from.
You should be able to find details of your luggage allowance on your cruise e-ticket or flight e-ticket. You can also check on the airline’s website for information about baggage.
Depending on your destination, you may be required to change flights.
Please check the pre-boarding information from your cruise line for details of formal nights and dress code.
It’s advisable to pack anything you might need straight after boarding, such as documents, medication and electronics, in your carry-on bag. The rest can go in your checked-in baggage.
A number of items are prohibited on cruise ships. Please visit your cruise line’s website to see what items you are banned from taking on board.
You may be required to prove you are the child’s parent, if the child is a minor.
Similarly, if you are taking a minor on a cruise and you are not their parent or legal guardian, you may be asked to provide proof that you have permission to do so.
Please check your cruise line’s website for information about the documentation you may need to provide in either case.
The minimum age for travelling on most cruise lines is 6 months old. However, this may be raised due to certain factors. Please check your cruise line’s website for information on minimum ages.
The minimum age for drinking alcohol varies depending on the cruise line you are sailing with and your destination. Please check your cruise line’s website for its policies on alcohol.
Most cruise lines will allow you on board depending on how many weeks pregnant you are. Please check on your cruise line’s website for more information or speak to your GP for advice.
