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Guarantee Inside
A Guarantee stateroom (GTY) guarantees an inside stateroom or better! Your stateroom may be on any deck and assigned...-
Guaranteed Inside - Category IX
IXNZD $971
total per person
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Guarantee Oceanview
A Guarantee stateroom (GTY) guarantees an Oceanview stateroom or better! Please note that the view may be fully...-
Guaranteed Oceanview - Category OX
OXNZD $1,128
total per person
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Inside Stateroom
A great stateroom priced just right, with many of the same amenities as an Oceanview — everything you need to relax,...-
Inside Stateroom - Category IF
IFNZD $1,297
total per person -
Mid-Ship Inside - Category IE
IENZD $1,308
total per person -
Inside Stateroom - Category ID
IDNZD $1,329
total per person -
Inside Stateroom - Category IC
ICNZD $1,339
total per person -
Mid-Ship Inside - Category IA
IANZD $1,371
total per person -
Family Inside - Category I1
I1NZD $1,392
total per person
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Mid-Ship Inside
Staying mid-ship means you're near all the action and excitement. And at the end of your busy day, or night, up to...-
Mid-Ship Inside - Category IB
IBNZD $1,360
total per person
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Obstructed Oceanview Stateroom
A large porthole window gives you plenty of natural light throughout your room. And, of course, you'll have access...-
Obstructed Oceanview - Category OK
OKNZD $1,444
total per person
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Oceanview Picture Window
Take in the ever-changing seascape from your picture window. Or kick back, relax and watch TV in your sitting area.... -
Guarantee Balcony
A Guarantee stateroom (GTY) guarantees a Balcony stateroom or better! Please note that the view from your balcony...-
Guaranteed Balcony - Category BX
BXNZD $1,495
total per person
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Oceanview Porthole Window
Catch the views of your latest destination through your large porthole window. Plus relax and recharge in your...-
Oceanview Porthole - Category OG
OGNZD $1,538
total per person
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Guaranteed Mini-Suite
A Guarantee stateroom (GTY) guarantees a Mini-Suite stateroom or better! Please note that the view from your balcony...-
Guaranteed Mini-Suite - Category MX
MXNZD $1,946
total per person
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Balcony Stateroom
Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to a private balcony with sweeping views. So enjoy beautiful sunrises,... -
Family Balcony
Share spectacular views with those you love, all from your private balcony. Plus you can connect multiple staterooms...-
Family Balcony - Category B3
B3NZD $2,031
total per person
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Aft-Facing Balcony
Facing aft gives you exclusive access to the most exhilarating — and unforgettable — views. Open your...-
Aft-Facing Balcony - Category B1
B1NZD $2,084
total per person
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Mid-Ship Balcony
Stay mid-ship and stay closer to the action. When it's time to retreat, open floor-to-ceiling glass doors onto your...-
Mid-Ship Balcony - Category BA
BANZD $2,115
total per person
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Mini-Suite with Balcony
All the space you need. Relax in your separate sitting area. Indulge in your luxury bath. Or step out onto your...-
Mini-Suite - Category MB
MBNZD $2,409
total per person
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Mid-Ship Mini-Suite with Balcony
The perfect location close to all the onboard action and excitement. Relax in your separate sitting area. Indulge in...-
Mid-ship Mini-Suite - Category MA
MANZD $2,450
total per person
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Family Suite
There's room for everyone in your group — up to six. Gorgeous views are yours through a wall of windows. And...-
Family Suite - Category SJ
SJNZD $2,775
total per person
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Family Suite with Balcony
Lots of room for everyone. Check out each port from your private balcony. Kick back in the living and dining area....-
Family Suite with Balcony - Category SD
SDNZD $3,436
total per person
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Deluxe Owner's Suite
Luxury for the whole family. Enjoy spectacular views from a wall of windows. Never lift a finger as your butler...-
Deluxe Owner's Suite - Category SA
SANZD $3,813
total per person
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2-Bedroom Family Suite with Balcony
Enjoy the amazing views together on your large, private balcony. Have your butler arrange a culinary feast in your...-
2-Bedroom Family Suite - Category SC
SCNZD $3,960
total per person
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Penthouse with Large Balcony
Perfect for the two of you. Enjoy plenty of room to relax, lounge, eat and slumber. Breathe in the refreshing ocean...-
Penthouse - Category SE
SENZD $4,180
total per person
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Guarantee Oceanview
A Guarantee stateroom (GTY) guarantees an Oceanview stateroom or better! Please note that the view may be fully obstructed, partially obstructed, porthole or picture window. Your stateroom may be on any deck and assigned up to one day prior to embarkation.
- Accommodates: 4
- Approx. Size: 159 sq. ft.
Guarantee Balcony
Guaranteed Mini-Suite
Guaranteed Inside - Category IX
Guaranteed Oceanview - Category OX
Multiple Decks
Inside Stateroom - Category IF


Multiple Decks
Mid-Ship Inside - Category IE


Multiple Decks
Inside Stateroom - Category ID


Multiple Decks
Inside Stateroom - Category IC


Multiple Decks
Mid-Ship Inside - Category IA


Multiple Decks
Family Inside - Category I1


Multiple Decks
Mid-Ship Inside - Category IB


Deck 8
Obstructed Oceanview - Category OK


Deck 4
Mid-Ship Oceanview Porthole -Category OF


Multiple Decks
Family Oceanview - Category O1


Guaranteed Balcony - Category BX
Multiple Decks
Oceanview Porthole - Category OG


Guaranteed Mini-Suite - Category MX
Deck 8
Balcony Stateroom - Category BD


Deck 9
Balcony Stateroom - Category BC


Deck 10
Balcony Stateroom - Category BB


Multiple Decks
Family Balcony - Category B3


Multiple Decks
Aft-Facing Balcony - Category B1


Multiple Decks
Mid-Ship Balcony - Category BA


Deck 11
Mini-Suite - Category MB


Deck 11
Mid-ship Mini-Suite - Category MA


Deck 12
Family Suite - Category SJ


Deck 12
Family Suite with Balcony - Category SD


Deck 12
Deluxe Owner's Suite - Category SA


Deck 11
2-Bedroom Family Suite - Category SC


Multiple Decks
Penthouse - Category SE


Please note: All prices featured are per person (unless otherwise stated), and include non commission fares (taxes, fees and port expenses). Prices and availability are subject to change due to changes made by the Cruise Companies. Prices quoted are based on payments made via bank transfer. Visa and Mastercard payments incur a 1.5% transaction fee.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Tampa Depart: Sun, Feb 16, 2020 @ 16:00 -
Day 2
At SeaMon, Feb 17, 2020
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Day 3
Costa MayaArrive: Tue, Feb 18, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Tue, Feb 18, 2020 @ 17:00
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Day 4
Harvest CayeArrive: Wed, Feb 19, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Wed, Feb 19, 2020 @ 17:00
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Day 5
Roatan IslanArrive: Thu, Feb 20, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Thu, Feb 20, 2020 @ 16:00
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Day 6
CozumelArrive: Fri, Feb 21, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Fri, Feb 21, 2020 @ 17:00
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Day 7
At SeaSat, Feb 22, 2020
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Day 8
Tampa Arrive: Sun, Feb 23, 2020 @ 07:00
Onboard experience
Main Dining Rooms
- Venetian - Offering beautifully crafted contemporary dishes and carefully selected Chef's Signature Dishes, this Main Dining Room has everything you're looking for in a dining experience. And then some. Plus, with a grand Italian Palazzo complete with crystal chandeliers and a sweeping staircase, the atmosphere inside Venetian is just as impressive as the culinary delights found on the menu. Deck 6
Cuisine: More Traditional - Aqua - Sit back, relax and embark on a culinary adventure inside this complimentary Main Dining Room. From more options on the daily changing menus to a Chocoholic Night available once per sailing featuring specialty chocolate-based desserts, Aqua has something for the foodie in everyone. Deck 6
Cuisine: Casual Contemporary
Other Complimentary Dining Options
- Blue Lagoon - In honor of the midnight snack, we bring you the Blue Lagoon 24-Hour Food Court. Whether you're hankering for a burger or the Foot Court-Style eatery, you can enjoy it all in a family friendly atmosphere day or night. Deck 8
Cuisine: 24-hour Eatery - Bamboo - Enjoy a complimentary Asian Fusion dining venue featuring freshly prepared noodles, delicious wok fried dishes, authentic soups, and more. Deck 7
Cuisine: Asian - Garden Café / Kid’s Café - The Garden Café offers a family-friendly menu of omelets, pasta, soups, salads, and ethnic specialties. There's even a special kid-sized section for little eaters. Deck 12
Cuisine: Buffet - Bimini Grill - Located poolside at the Oasis Pool is Bimini Bar & Grill. Enjoy a burger, pizza and more delicious grilled items. Then stop by Sprinkles Ice Cream Bar. Deck 13
Cuisine: Alternate Pool Bar & Grill
- Cagney's - Steak is the standard at our American-style steakhouse. Pull up a seat and take your pick from premium cuts of Certified Angus Beef®. Your mouth will water, so sip your favorite cocktail in anticipation. And don’t forget to order our made-from-scratch jumbo crab cakes and a side of our famous truffle fries. Deck 13
Cuisine: Steakhouse - Le Bistro - Have it au poivre or just go straight for the bouillabaisse at our signature French restaurant. Elegant interiors and attentive servers make this an intimate dining experience reminiscent of a Parisian café. By the end of your meal, you’ll might just be proclaiming c’est magnifique! Deck 7
Cuisine: French - Moderno - If you're looking for a unique experience, our authentic Brazilian steakhouse is a must. Start with an impressive salad bar of imported cheeses, olives, cured meats, ceviche and specialty salads. Be sure to save room for the delicious skewers of slow-roasted meats including beef, pork, lamb and chicken – all carved tableside by our Pasadores. Deck 8
Cuisine: Churrascaria - La Cucina - Enjoy the flavors of the Tuscan countryside at tables with room for old friends and new. Dine on classic dishes where you can taste the freshness of every tomato used to make an exquisitely delicious sauce. Try a twist on a classic like lobster fettuccine, or keep it purist with a osso bucco. Just when you think you’re out, they’ll pull you back in with a toasty espresso and some macadamia nut ice cream. Delizioso! Deck 6
Cuisine: Italian - Teppanyaki - Flying shrimp. Onion volcanoes. Twirling knives. The sizzles and surprises never cease at our authentic Japanese Hibachi restaurant. Sit around a lively shared table as a skillful chef slices, chops and grills steak, seafood and chicken on a large steel grill right before your eyes. Our chilled, sake-infused Wasabi Cocktail will have you flipping too. Deck 7
Cuisine: Teppanyaki - Sushi - Enjoy the very best sushi and sashimi expertly prepared as you watch. The menu is priced a la carte. Deck 7
Cuisine: Sushi
Bars and Lounges
Moderno Bar - Deck 8
If you're looking for a unique experience, our authentic Brazilian steakhouse is a must. Start with an impressive salad bar of imported cheeses, olives, cured meats, ceviche and specialty salads. Be sure to save room for the delicious skewers of slow-roasted meats including beef, pork, lamb and chicken – all carved tableside by our Pasadores.
Atrium Café & Bar - Deck 7
For that double, vanilla, extra hot latte with extra foam, the Jave Café is at your service with a wide variety of specialty coffees, teas, pastries, and cookies.
Bimini Bar & Grill - Deck 14
This colorful beach bar brings you the feel of the islands and the laid-back atmosphere that is just like being on Bimini Beach with a Margarita in your hand. Located poolside at the Oasis Pool is Bimini Bar & Grill. Enjoy a burger, pizza and more grilled items. Then stop by Sprinkles Ice Cream Bar.
Dawn Club Casino Bar - Deck 6
Welcome to NCL's Casinos at Sea. Where novices and veterans alike will enjoy slots, Roulette, Blackjack, Craps, Let It Ride®. Let the good times roll. For a detailed list of games offered, please visit the game types page in the Norwegian Casinos At Sea (TM) section.
Gatsby's Champagne Bar - Deck 6
There are moments when only champagne will do. Head to Gatsby's Champagne Bar for an extensive selection of bubbly, decorated in classic art deco motif.
Sake Bar - Deck 7
Full sake bar within the Bamboo restaurant.
Spinnaker Lounge - Deck 7
A lounge featuring a full bar and dance floor.
Star Bar - Deck 13
Looking for a nice spot to sit, enjoy cocktails and take in the view? This is the place. The Star Bar looks out over the Oasis Pool and out to sea with a piano player as the perfect backdrop.
The Pearly Kings Pub - Deck 7
Going down to the pub takes on new meaning at the Pearly Kings, a traditional English Pub featuring English pool, large screen TV's and the proper beer on tap.
Topsiders Bar - Deck 12
Located poolside at the Oasis Pool is Topsiders, a full bar in close proximity to ample sunning area, hot tubs and Sprinkles Ice Cream Bar. It's all part of cruising's total resort experience.
Juice Bar - Deck 12
After a good workout, give yourself a healthy treat. The Juice Bar offers a wide range of juices and smoothies to choose from.
Casino
Welcome to NCL's Casinos at Sea. Where novices and veterans alike will enjoy Roulette, Blackjack, Craps and Let It Ride®. Let the good times roll.
Club
Havana Club - Deck 6
Step into the world of rolled premium cigars, cognacs and spirits at the Havana Club. This is one place where it is completely acceptable to light up in public.
Wine Cellar - Deck 6
Wine tasting, display and sales.
Entertainment - Shows and Performances
Elements
Come and experience one of Norwegian Cruise Line's favorite production show - ELEMENTS! From mesmerizing magic to the visual feast of flying to exciting music and dance, this dazzling show will revel in the four elements of Earth, Air, Water & Fire. This show is an incredible spectacle of wonder, enchantment and sensual delight.
Band On The Run
Join us tonight as The Norwegian Production Cast and Show Orchestra transport you to one of the hottest clubs of the 70's. Club BOTR! This club caters to the elite and your name is at the top of the guest list. So come on in and enjoy the soaring melodies of Styx, the disco sounds of Donna Summer and the driving rock beat of Queen. At Club BOTR, you can be whoever you want to be!
Comedy Variety
When's the last time you guffawed? From standup comedy to unicycle-riding jugglers, you're invited for an evening of laughter in the Stardust Theater.
Showdown
YOU be the judge! Four talented singers vie the audience’s votes with a rocking Emcee that’ll keep the show moving and the audience groovin’. Enjoy hit tunes from Aretha Franklin, The Supremes, The Temptations, Gloria Gaynor & more. Its American Idol meets a Motown X-Factor. You’ll be dancing in the aisles as you experience the non-stop energy and fun for the whole family.
The Second City
Chicago's legendary comedy theatre, The Second City, celebrates its 50th Anniversary aboard Norwegian Epic with a hilarious revue of sketches, songs and improvisation. Watch the brightest young comic talent in North America puts its comic spin on current events and life on the cruise ship.
White Hot Party
Ice ice baby. Don your white attire and get to the pool deck for the most invigorating, black light glowing, electrifying party beneath the stars. Dance with our white-winged angels and be sure to purchase a souvenir t-shirt.
Internet
Internet Cafe - Deck 9
No matter how far you are from home, having access to the Internet is always nearby at the Internet Café. The Café can also be used as a computer lecturer and training center.
Kids Club
T-Rex Kid's Pool - Deck 12
Just like its name, the T-Rex Kid's Pool has a dinosaur theme featuring slides and paddling pool. There's also a hot tub on the deck nearby.
Teen Club - Deck 13
A hip place for teens to hang out comes complete, video, jukebox, fooseball table and air hockey. By night The Club turns into a teen disco.
Youth Center - Deck 13
Get into the zone with the newly remodeled Youth and Teen Centers. The Youth Center offers a cinema and interactive dance mat. The Teen Center features a brand new dance floor, video jukebox, and large flat screen television along with PlayStation® 3 and Wii gaming area.
Swimming
Lap Pool and Jacuzzi - Deck 11
Just because you're at sea, doesn't mean you can't get in your daily swim. Our Lap Pool is the longest indoor pool on a cruise ship.
Hot Tubs (6) - Deck 12
There are six hot tubs conveniently located throughout the ship. Try them all out or pick your favorite and make relaxing and unwinding a part of your daily regimen.
The Oasis Pool - Deck 12
C'mon by for a swim and an ice cream or a cocktail. The Oasis Pool is flanked by Topsiders Poolside Bar, Sprinkles Ice Cream Bar, plenty of deck space, hot tubs, and more.
Shopping
Colombian Emeralds International
Each of our gem stones, whether they be emeralds, diamonds, saphires or rubies, convey exactly the right sentiment for that special moment. We also carry top brand timepieces at duty free prices. Come visit us and get up to 70% savings.
Galleria Shops
Need a new bathing suit? How about a surprise gift for your sweetheart? The Galleria Shops is a department store that offers a wide selection of brand name and specialty goodies.
Port o' Call
This shopping destination is where you can find a nice selection of watches, cosmetics, perfumes and more!
Spa
Mandara Spa - Deck 11
If being pampered is your idea of a vacation, the Mandara Spa is the place for you. This full service beauty salon and spa offers a wide range of spa treatments to rejuvenate your body and soul.
Spa Thermal Suite - Deck 11
The Thermal Suite offers a unique experience benefiting the mind and body. Unwind and rejuvenate as you indulge in ultimate relaxation. Take a dip in the hot tub as the power of the warm water improves your circulation and loosens stiff muscles. Then head to the steam room to relax stiff joints, improve your immune system and alleviate pains. If detox is what you crave, sit down at the sauna a little while in the dry heat to sweat out your cares as your heart and sweat glands work together to purify your body. Lastly, cool off and cleanse with a “tropical rain shower.”
Sports & Fitness
Basketball/Volleyball Court - Deck 14
Shoot hoops, join a pick up game or play beach volleyball without the beach at the net enclosed, outdoor Basketball/Volleyball Court.
El Dorado Fitness Center - Deck 12
There are numerous ways to stay in shape while on board the Dawn. The El Dorado Fitness Center is open from 6am to 11pm with a full-service gym and aerobics/fitness classes offered daily.
Jogging/Walking Track - Deck 13
Run circles around the other guests or get in your daily walk while you're at sea. Breakfast always tastes better after a good walk or run, right?
Library
The Library - Deck 12
You'll find a well-stocked selection of things to read with all the elegant trimmings a good library deserves.
Conference
The Boardroom & Meeting Rooms - Deck 12
Norwegian Dawn's meeting room area features four individual rooms. Bangkok seats 12, Singapore seats 10, Hong Kong seats 10 and Kaula Lumpur also seats 10. They can be used together or separately.
Video Arcade
Video Zone - Deck 13
Stop by the video arcade and capture a few aliens, win a car race, play pinball and fly a jet fighter. Anything is possible at Video Zone.
Ship info
Norwegian Dawn offer the ultimate Freestyle Cruising experience with departures from Boston to Bermuda in the summer, Canada & New England in the fall and from Tampa to the best spots in the Caribbean during winter. Norwegian Dawn was built with freedom in mind, offering a choice of 17 delicious dining options, 12 fun bars and lounges, the fitness center and spa, casino, pools and more. Plus, she offers a range of spacious accommodations to suit every size family and budget.
- Vessel: Norwegian Dawn
- Year: 2002
- Beam: 125
- Cruising speed: 25
- Crew: 1,032
- Gross Tonnage: 92,250
- Onboard Currency: U.S. Dollar
- Passenger Capacity: 2,340
- 24-Hour Room Service
- Basketball/Volleyball Court
- Casino
- El Dorado Fitness Center
- Hot Tubs
- Internet Cafe
- Kids Club
- Library
- Stardust Theater
- Video Zone
- Wine Cellar
Decks
Norwegian Dawn - Deck Plans
Cruise code: DWN-20200216-07-TPA-TPA
Inside Choose 1: Beverage Package, Dining Package, $50 Shore Tour Credit, Internet credit. Oceanview choose 2, Balcony (subject to avail) & Suites can get all! Not available IX, OX, BX, MX.T&Cs apply.
- Government Tax
- Onboard Accommodation
- In-stateroom TV programming (except for on-demand movies)
- Dedicated Kids & Teen (ages 2-17) programming & spaces during at sea days until 10:30 pm and from departure until 10:30 pm during port days
- Meals in the complimentary dining venues
- Iced Tea, some juices in the buffet (for breakfast), regular coffee, tea and ice water
- All entertainment onboard unless it’s part of a dining entertainment production
- Poolside activities
- Access to fitness facilities
- Select onboard presentations
- Sports Court activities
- Use of outdoor pools and hot tubs
Frequently asked questions
Cruising is such a great value holiday as your fare includes accommodations, all main meals onboard ship, onboard daytime activities, and night-time entertainment including live stage shows. One reason cruising is good value is because you'll know what most of your holiday will cost before you go. Generally your only extra onboard expenses could be your beverages (though these are sometimes included on luxury ships), optional shore excursions, personal services such as spa treatments, and any purchases at the gift and duty free shops.
All your main meals are included on a cruise. Typically for breakfast, lunch and dinner there is an a la carte option (order from a menu) or a buffet option. There is so much choice available, and the food is excellent. However, your cruise doesn't always just include these 3 main meals. You can in fact eat non-stop for 24 hours a day if you like.
Most cruise lines also offer specialty dining as an alternative option to the main restaurants. There is typically a small cover charge for this. However, the food is well worth it, and the specialty restaurants are normally smaller and more intimate than the main restaurants so they make for a great place to celebrate a special occasion.
The entertainment on board comes in many different styles and formats but is always included in the cruise fare. In the evening there are shows in the main show lounge (except small ship cruising). Typically there are two sessions a night so, depending on your dinner time, you can always catch the show. The style of these shows changes daily. Some nights it will include all of the ship’s entertainment crew with a Las Vegas style production. Other nights there may be a guest entertainer or comedian. There is something for everyone.
The entertainment doesn't stop with the nightly performances. Each night the ship provides a newsletter detailing all the activities that will take place the following day. These activities may include dance classes, arts and crafts, table tennis, live music, tournaments, trivia quizzes, recent release movies, and other deck games and deck parties. The great thing about a cruise is that you can do as much or as little as you like. If your idea of a holiday is sitting back with a good book, you can do that. If you like to be entertained there is no shortage of entertainment.
One of the main reasons for a cruise making such a great family holiday is the “kids club” facilities offered on board, and they are all included in your cruise fare. Typically the kids clubs are broken into 3 different age groups - 3 to 6 years, 7 to 12 years, and 13 – 17 years. In these dedicated children’s facilities they are looked after by trained staff and the facilities are open from 9am – 10pm. Parents can check their children into the “kids club” whenever it suits them. Children love these facilities as it is “their space” aboard the ship.
NB Each cruise line has limited space on board the ship for children as the kids club facilities can cater for a limited number of children, and any child booked onto a cruise has access to the kids club. If you are planning on taking a cruise during the school holidays then you need to book early as the children's space will sell out. Also, while most cruise lines have kids club facilities there are some exceptions (not common) so you should check this at time of booking.
The chances are you will not get seasick. On a cruise most people do not suffer from motion sickness. However, if you are going to get seasick then it is likely to happen in the first 24 hours. If you limit the amount of alcohol you consume and activities you do in the first 24 hours you can reduce the chance of this happening. Another thing you can do is select a midship cabin on a lower deck. A cabin in the middle of the ship (midship) will experience the least amount of movement.
There are a number of other precautions/medications you can take, and these can be purchased before you travel at a pharmacy or health shop. Otherwise you can buy them on board.
The best thing you can do if you feel seasick is visit the ship’s doctor. They can give you an injection that will give you relief from your seasickness within 30 minutes. You have planned and saved for your holiday, don't ruin it by feeling sick. Visit the doctor for the injection and get it treated straight away. If you have travel insurance then you can claim this back.
IMPORTANT: A visit to the doctor on board will cost you money so we strongly recommend you get travel insurance before you depart on your holiday.
Terms and conditions for this cruise
Frequently Asked Questions
Shore excursions are pre-organised tours & sightseeing options that you purchase on board for when your ship is in a port of call. Every ship has a “Shore Ex” desk with qualified staff who can advise you of different excursions available, what’s best to do and generally help you with information on the particular region your ship is visiting.
Shore excursions can be booked on board your ship however some cruise lines allow you to pre-book and pay for excursions online. If there is a tour you really want to do then we recommend you pre-book it as popular tours do sell out.
Shore excursions are not compulsory, you are free to go ashore and return to the ship as many times as you like.
When you go ashore it is important to note:
You must take your cruise I.D. card (ticket) as proof for re-embarking.
The city or town you are visiting may not be close to the port where the ship is docked, cruise lines normally organise shuttle buses (at a minimal charge) throughout the day to and from the city centre.
You must return to the ship at the stipulated time as the ship WILL NOT wait for late passengers.
Tour costs vary depending on the activity, itinerary and inclusions. There is always a wide variety on offer for all age groups and abilities that can start from as little as $25.
Sometimes you can book your tour, when you arrive at your port, direct from the operator at a much cheaper price. However, this comes with a buyer beware warning. The operators used by the cruise line are trusted professionals so you will not be ripped off. Also, if something goes wrong on your tour, the cruise line knows where you are and will take the necessary steps to pick you up if your vehicle has broken down. In extreme cases they will even hold the ship's departure for you if you are late returning from a tour booked through the ship. They will not wait if you go direct through the operator, as they will not know where you are.
Unlike airlines, there are no luggage restrictions on a cruise. However you need to consider that you need to store it in your cabin for your holiday. There is plenty of storage space in your cabin but if you are travelling in a quad cabin you may want to impose your own restrictions.
NB It is important to remember that airlines have different luggage restrictions, so if you are flying either pre or post cruise then you may want to keep within their allowances.
Cruise lines around the world do not all operate using the same onboard currency. The currency varies from cruise line to cruise line with the most common currency being US dollars. P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival Spirit and the Sun and Dawn Princess all use Australian dollars as their onboard currency.
Cruising is a cashless society which means when you purchase anything on board you do not pay for it in cash. When you board the ship it is like checking into a hotel, you can either give a credit card imprint or the cruise line will take a cash deposit of approximately $300. You are then given a “cruise card”. Your cruise card is your door key (on most ships), has your dinner table number on it (for traditional dining), and it is used for making any purchases aboard.
When you make a purchase with your cruise card, it is swiped and a receipt is printed that you will need to sign. The cost of the purchase is then added to your onboard account which you settle at the end of your cruise.
Many cruises on our websites come with onboard credits. This could be from a special promotion that is being run by the cruise line or because of the relationship we have with the cruise lines that allows us to select certain cruises to receive onboard credit. The amount of onboard credit does normally depend on the length of the cruise.
If your reservation receives onboard credit we will confirm this with you in writing and then your onboard account will automatically be in credit for the amount we have confirmed to you. This credit can be used towards any onboard expenditure that is charged back to your cabin. It is important to note that if you do not spend all of your onboard credit it will not be refunded to you in cash so it is best you spend it all while on board.
Tipping/gratuities are a big issue for a lot of Australasian cruise passengers as it is not our custom to reward good service in this way. What cruise passengers need to consider is that outside of Australasia, the remuneration for personnel in the service industry is quite low. Hence, to keep up a high standard, employees have the incentive of earning additional income via the tips they receive. At the end of the day, how much you tip is up to you.
The most common way cruise lines suggest tipping, is that they add a suggested amount to your daily onboard account. You can choose to keep that on your account or you can ask the purser to remove it. This suggested amount is divided out amongst your cabin steward, your dinner waiter, your assistant waiter, your wine steward, and maitre d’.
Some cruise lines ask passengers to wait until the end of the cruise and they discreetly leave an envelope in your cabin in which to place the appropriate amount. Some cruise lines state that the fare you have paid includes gratuities. Some cruise lines ask that you pre-pay the gratuities with your cruise fare prior to your holiday departure.
Again, the amount you tip is up to you (unless it is prepaid) and it isn't intended to have a negative impact on your holiday. Do what feels most comfortable to you.
The rules surrounding where you can smoke on board a cruise ship vary from cruise line to cruise line. However, none have taken steps to ban smoking completely. Most only allow smoking in designated areas on the open decks. Many have banned smoking on cabin balconies as this poses a fire risk.
Many cruise lines have rules restricting you from taking your own alcohol on board your cruise ship. If you have pre purchased duty free alcohol the ship will take it off you when you board and store it away for you. This alcohol will be delivered to your cabin the night before you disembark. The same applies if you purchase it when you are in port. Any purchases made on board will also be delivered the night before you disembark.
However, Princess Cruises will allow you to bring a bottle of wine aboard which you can drink at dinner or in your cabin.
These restrictions were put in place to create a safer environment on board your cruise ship, where people drink within a controlled drinking environment.
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