Frequently asked questions

Accommodation in a cabin of the chosen category, meals in the main restaurants and at the buffet, onboard entertainment, port charges and service fees. Drinks, excursions, internet and the spa are paid separately; exactly what is included depends on the fare.

An inside cabin is the most affordable, an ocean-view cabin gives you daylight, a balcony adds your own way out to the sea, and a suite is larger with extended service. A manager will compare the options on your chosen ship and tell you where it is quieter and rocks less.

Yes. Most ships have kids' clubs, pools and a children's menu, and children sharing a cabin with their parents often travel at special fares. The minimum age depends on the cruise line and the itinerary; a manager will check it for the cruise you choose.

Choose a cruise and a date, click «Cabin prices and availability», pick a cabin and a fare, and fill in the passengers' details. A manager will confirm the booking and send you an invoice for the deposit.

Essential cruise packing list: passport and document copies, travel insurance, medications (including seasickness remedies), universal power adapter, comfortable walking shoes for excursions, formal evening attire, and sun protection. Also recommended: plastic bags for wet clothes and a small backpack for shore excursions.

Most cruise ships have European (Type C/F) and American (Type A/B) outlets. MSC Cruises ships typically have both types. A universal adapter is recommended. Power strips with surge protectors are allowed, but irons and kettles are prohibited on board.

No, irons and other heating appliances (kettles, immersion heaters) are prohibited in cruise ship cabins due to fire safety regulations. For ironing, you can use the ship's laundry service. Some ships (Princess Cruises, Holland America) have self-service laundry rooms.

Unlike air travel, cruise lines typically do not limit luggage quantity. However, cabin space is limited, so one large suitcase and one carry-on per person is recommended. Luggage is checked at embarkation and delivered to your cabin by porters.

The base cruise price typically includes: cabin accommodation, dining in main restaurants (buffet and table service), entertainment (shows, pools, fitness center, kids' clubs), port fees and taxes. On luxury lines, drinks, Wi-Fi, specialty restaurants, and shore excursions are also included.

Additional charges apply for: alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (unless included in your fare), specialty restaurants, spa treatments, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, laundry, photos, and casino. MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean offer drink packages that significantly reduce costs.

Yes, dining in the main restaurants — buffet and table service — is included on all cruise lines. Also included are 24-hour snack bars, pizzeria (on MSC), and basic room service. Specialty restaurants (steakhouse, Japanese, Italian) are usually extra, ranging from 15 to 50 USD per dinner.

A drink package is worthwhile if you plan to consume more than 4-5 drinks per day. MSC Cruises' Easy package includes water, juices, coffee, and beer at a significantly lower cost than buying drinks individually. If you only drink water and coffee, a package may not pay for itself.