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Discover the pleasures of a holiday at sea. Cruising offers great vacation value – the price of your cruise includes accommodation, activities, entertainment, meals and snacks. As you sail from one port of call to the next these floating resorts offer a myriad of onboard amenities. Well appointed accommodation provides you with a rejuvenating place to unpack and unwind. For those times in your life that are special, cruise lines offer an array of celebration experiences. Come aboard to celebrate a birthday, engagement, wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or family reunion – whatever the occasion, cruise lines will help you create a memorable experience that will last a lifetime. The crew onboard are devoted to one goal – making your voyage extraordinary in every way!
On board you can choose to lie back and be pampered or go non-stop. It‘s up to you! Dining aboard a Cruise ship is an experience unto itself. Dine in one of the many restaurants and casual venues or opt to tickle your taste buds in one of the ships specialty dining venues for a nominal fee. Whatever is on the menu there’s a variety of dining options to choose from.
Start your day with a fitness class in the gym, shop in one of the onboard boutiques, have lunch by the pool, participate in one of the enrichment at sea programs, or head to the Spa for a relaxing massage – each day of your voyage is an adventure.
Take advantage of the optional shore excursions available through the cruise line. Explore the beauty of the various regions by touring historic sites, shop till you drop or simply head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun! Getting around in the various ports is a breeze whether you take a shore excursion, hop in a taxi or take a local bus to see the sites there is a variety of options to discover each port of call.
Cruise travel tips
Language spoken onboard
English is widely spoken by onboard crew. Currency and purchases onboard Most cruise ships sailing the Caribbean use US dollars for onboard purchases unless otherwise noted. All purchases made onboard will be added to your shipboard account. You will receive an itemized bill of all purchases the night before disembarkation. When you provide your credit card in advance, all onboard charges will be charged to your credit card. There is no need to visit the Pursers desk to settle your account if you have left a credit card for all purchases. If paying by cash you must settle your account with the cruise line the evening prior to disembarkation. Those paying by cash or travelers cheques will be required to leave a cash deposit at the beginning of their cruise. Cruise lines accept most major credit cards, have currency exchange and ATM’s onboard which provide US cash unless otherwise noted - refer to the specific Cruise line/ship profile for details. Travellers cheques and most major credit cards are accepted in the various ports of call. Vacation packing checklist Casual sportswear, including shorts, lightweight pants, swim wear, beach cover, t-shirts are the order of the day at sea and ashore. Low heeled, rubber soled shoes for strolling the deck, as well as comfortable walking shoes or sandals are recommended. Smart Casual for evening is the norm. Evening attire is suggested for formal nights (cocktail dresses or gowns for ladies and jackets with tie or tuxedos for men). Click here for a vacation packing checklists
Things to know about your Cruise vacation
Sunwing suggests the recommendations below while traveling on a cruise to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Check-in Information – Embarkation Day
The ship will board passengers at specific times as outlined in your cruise documents. Please have your Cruise line documentation ready for check-in at the pier. Based upon your arrival and check-in time, it is possible that your stateroom may not be ready. Most cruise require that you provide them with complete and accurate immigration information online prior to sailing. Failure to do so will result in delayed check-in and, possibly, denied boarding. If you do not have online access contact your Travel Agent to assist. Pack your bathing suit, shorts and sunscreen in your carry-on so that you can enjoy the ships facilities until your stateroom is available.
Welcome Aboard
Spend time on embarkation day to familiarize yourself with the ship and all the facilities onboard. Easy to read guide books are provided. Check out the dining venues, book a spa treatment, grab a bite to eat or head to the pool for a dip – all before the ship sets sail!
Onboard Assistance
Your friendly onboard crew are available to assist. Please contact the local cruise line representative with any questions or issues that may arise during your cruise.
Drinking Water
The tap water onboard is purified and therefore it is safe to drink. Bottled water is available for sale on the ship and can be purchased shore side at local stores.
Clients requiring extra care and assistance
Special needs (i.e. wheelchair, dietary, stateroom, airline and/or transfers) for passengers must be requested at time of booking. Cruise ships have limited wheelchair-accessible staterooms for which a medical certificate is required. Special transfer arrangements may incur additional charges. Passengers with special needs must be self sufficient and accompanied by a least one other passenger who assumes full responsibility for their well being at all times. Under certain circumstances, passengers in a wheelchair may be precluded from going ashore due to docking facilities. Reconfirm any dietary requirements with the maitre d’ on embarkation day. Please note that some foreign destinations may not define or provide wheelchair access in the same fashion that we are accustomed to in Canada. In order to ensure that you are properly assisted, we request that you check with your Travel Agent of any and all specific needs that you may have.
Safety Deposit Boxes
Staterooms have safety deposit boxes. Please use your safety deposit box for all your valuables, cash and travel documents. Sunwing Vacations cannot assume liability for loss or damage of valuables left in staterooms. We encourage you to place all valuables in the safety deposit box.
Safety at Sea and in Port
The cruise industry goes to great lengths to ensure that it's passengers are safe at sea. Cruise ships have 24 hour security personnel on board and passengers/crew have photo ID cards to embark and disembark the ship at all times. All cruise ships must meet safety standards set by the International Maritime Organization enforced through the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). Ships are regularly inspected when operating from US ports and are subject to US federal and state regulations as well as regular safety inspections by the US Coast Guard. When in port, foreign destinations can be very exhilarating. Tourists must be aware that potential problems and risks to your personal safety could exist anywhere. Please use the same personal safety precautions and common sense on your vacation that you would at home e.g. apply sunscreen frequently, do not swim alone and do not display cash. Avoid venturing out alone and beware of dark or isolated areas.
Transportation, Government Taxes and Fees
Cruise line transportation, government taxes and fees are included in the total price of your package holiday fare.
Onboard Gratuities
Some gratuities for onboard staff may be included in the price of your package holiday fare or added to your shipboard account. Refer to the specific Cruise line/ship profile for details.
Shopping at Sea
Cruise lines offer a variety of gift shops and boutiques offering tax-free and duty-free savings off suggested U.S. retail prices on fragrances, cosmetics, jewelry, gifts, apparel, accessories, souvenirs and liquor.
Special Occasion Celebrations
Cruise lines love to help you celebrate special occasions. Whether you are planning a family reunion, wedding at sea, a birthday, anniversary, renewal of vows or an engagement at sea – all cruise lines offer a variety of celebration packages to make your special occasion a memorable one.
Shore Excursions
Cruise lines offer a wide variety of optional shore excursions for purchase. These optional ‘tours’ offer you a wonderful opportunity to explore the various ports of call. Tours are typically operated by a local independent company. Full details can be found on the cruise line website and will be included in your Cruise document package. Most excursions can be pre-reserved online before you leave or booked onboard through the ship’s Shore Excursion desk.
Salon / Spas at Sea
On board salon and spa services are bar none! Cruise line spas offer a variety of treatments to relax and rejuvenate. It is recommended to book appointments early to avoid disappointment. Spa and beauty salon services are available for a fee.
Fitness at Sea
Cruise lines offer a variety of activity and exercise programs. From yoga to some of the best exercise equipment there are plenty of options to keep fit while onboard.
Alcohol and Casino
In line with domestic U.S age limits and Cruise Line policies, the Casino, cash prize bingo and horse racing are reserved for guests 21 years and older. Additionally, only those guests 21 years and older will be allowed to purchase or consume alcohol. Picture ID may be requested.
Golf at Sea
Most cruise lines offer golf clinics/lessons along with golf related shore excursions. Some ships also have onboard
9 hole putting courses, golf simulators or mini golf. Refer to the specific cruise line information for further details.
Smoking Onboard
Smoking is only permitted in designated areas. Guests are asked to observe all safety precautions and the smoking policy is subject to change at any time. Smoking policies may vary by cruise line.
Daily Newsletters
Daily newsletters are delivered to your stateroom. This information provides a daily schedule of ship activities and entertainment events. It provides you with details on everything that is happening on the ship for the next day along with shipboard services and hours of operation.
Staying in Touch/Onboard Communication
Most cruise line staterooms have phones that allow direct ship-to-shore dialing. Guests with international cell phones will enjoy coverage at some ports pf call. Families from Canada may reach onboard guests by dialing the applicable cruise line phone number for this purpose (fees are typically charged to the shoreside party). In addition to this, most cruise lines have an Internet Café in which guests can access their email accounts. Fees for this will be applied to your shipboard account. Refer to the specific cruise line information for further details.
Medical Services
Cruise ships offer medical services which are typically staffed by full-time Doctors and nurses (also available 24 hours a day in the event of an emergency). Charges for medical services will be added to your shipboard account and you will be provided an itemized receipt to submit to your insurance company. There are some restrictions for pregnant women cruising which vary by cruise line. All pregnant women are required to produce a doctor's or midwife’s letter stating that the mother and baby are in good health, fit to travel and the pregnancy is not high-risk. Cruise lines encourage guests to purchase medical insurance, travel with adequate supplies of medical prescriptions and devices and to disclose pre-existing medical conditions prior to sailing.
Electrical Current
Most cruise line staterooms are equipped with a 110-volt, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings. Refer to the specific cruise line information for further details.
Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Onboard laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a nominal fee.
Disembarkation Day / Your Flight Home
Prior to disembarkation your stateroom steward will provide you with a detailed letter containing relevant information regarding your departure from the ship. Typically, once you leave the ship you will need to identify you luggage and proceed to Customs and Immigration. As a friendly reminder, make sure that you have packed your flight documents, medication, or any articles that you must have with you at all times in your carry-on luggage. For Sunwing flights home please note that seat selection is on a first come, first serve basis at the airport, unless previously booked and paid for prior to your departure.
Documents needed on a Cruise It is your responsibility to determine what documentation is required for travel to your destination including the various ports of call, and for your return to Canada. Sunwing Vacations will assume no responsibility whatsoever for passenger(s) denied carriage by the airline or refused entry into any country. Canadian Citizens can contact Foreign Affairs Canada at http://www.voyage.gc.ca for assistance in obtaining this information. Citizens of other countries should check with the relative Tourist Board or Consular Office of the destination in which they are intending to visit. Sunwing Vacations strongly recommends that you carry a valid passport when travelling outside of Canada. Please note that several countries now require that your passport be valid for up to six months after the completion of your travel in order to be accepted by them as a valid travel document. Canadian Citizens please click here Non-Canadian Citizens please click here
Cruising with Children Families love to cruise! Cruise lines offer an array of wonderful activities, entertainment and venues for various age groups. The children’s centres are supervised by trained cruise line staff who keep young cruisers busy! Cruise lines also offer kid friendly menus. The children’s programs have sign in/out policies. A great way to keep in touch with children onboard is to bring along good quality walkie-talkies that have a number of stations. On larger ships, there are some areas where walkie-talkies don't work). Another suggestion is to leave a pad and pen on the desk in your cabin where the parents and child can leave each other notes. Also, give your children a definite time when they have to return to the cabin or meet you at the buffet for lunch, etc.
Cruise lines
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises currently operates a fleet of 17 vessels. Princess is owned by Carnival Corp plc whose portfolio also includes leading cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line and Seabourn Cruise Line in North America; P&O Cruises, Cunard Line and Ocean Village in the UK; AIDA in Germany; Costa Cruises in southern Europe; Iberocruceros in Spain; and P&O Cruises in Austrailia. Carnival Corp also owns two tour companies that complement their cruise operations, Holland America and Princess Tours in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon. Combined, their vacation companies attract seven million guests annually.
Considered one of the most recognized cruise lines in the world, Princess Cruises catapulted to stardom in 1977 when the Pacific Princess was cast in a starring role on a new television show “The Love Boat”. The weekly series, which introduced millions of viewers to the still-new concept of a sea-going vacation, was an instant hit and both the company name and its ‘seawitch’ logo have remained synonymous with cruising every since.
Princess Cruises prides itself on service. To maintain the highest service standards, a company sponsored initiative was developed as a ship and shore partnership. It focuses on raising the level of customer service and hospitality, providing yet another positive point of differentiation between Princess Cruises and its competitors.
Ship - Caribbean Princess sailing from San Juan
The Caribbean Princess is one of the stars of the region that bears her name. Built in 2004, the Caribbean Princess weighs in at 113,000 gross tons and carries up to 3,100 guests in 1,557 staterooms. The Caribbean Princess’ country of registry is Bermuda. Start your day with a workout at the fitness centre, relax and rejuvenate in the Lotus Spa or out on deck in the adults only oasis, The Sanctuary. You will also find an array of freshwater swimming pools and hot tubs, lounges and clubs, a library, lavish production shows, extensive options for children and much more. Dining onboard the Caribbean Princess is a culinary delight – enjoy fine dining in specialty restaurants such as Sabatinis and the elegant Crown Grill, Traditional or Anytime Dining rooms or Vines Wine & Seafood bar. Top it off with a night of Movies Under the Stars! For those times in your life that are special, Princess offers an array of celebration experiences. Come aboard to celebrate a birthday, engagement, wedding, honeymoon, anniversary or renewal of vows!
MSC Cruises was founded in 1990 by its owner and chairman, Gianluigi Aponte. This Italian owned cruise line operates a fleet of ten cruise ships which is part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) family, a privately owned shipping group formed in 1970 and headquartered in Geneva with many offices world wide. Step aboard the ships of MSC Cruises and you will step into a world of understated elegance and genuine Italian hospitality. From modern Italian architecture and design to the genuine warmth of their Italian officers. From their signature - La Cucina Italiana - the perfect combination of Old World recipes and New World flair - to a relaxing cappuccino in a cozy corner. From the invigorating and rejuvenating treatments of their luxurious onboard spas to the nightlife and entertainment in their stylish clubs and lounges. Legendary film star and Italian icon Sophia Loren is the proud Godmother to MSC Cruises. MSC prides itself on Quality and Service and has proudly preserved the “White-Glove” service that many cruise lines have lost. Onboard MSC ships they full embrace their motto of “putting our guests experience first & foremost “. MSC’s pursuit of perfection makes them who they are: Beautiful. Passionate. Italian.
Ship – MSC Poesia sailing from Ft Lauderdale
MSC Poesia "Poem of the seas" - Poetry is like the sea, lulling with gentle swells and stirring the emotions. Just as poetry brings pleasure, the magnificent MSC Poesia cruise ship introduces a new dimension of enjoyment to cruising. The MSC Poesia launched in 2008. She weighs in at 93,300 gross tons, is 964 feet in length and carries up to 2,550 guests based on double occupancy in 1,275 staterooms. The MSC Poesia’s country of registry is Panama. Onboard the Poesia you will discover luxury cruising at its best - a spectacular waterfall with bridges in the foyer, a Zen garden in the sushi bar and a serene 13,000 square foot spa. Then imagine yourself on a private balcony overloking the ocean and a star-filled sky, accompanied by the sounds of a Verdi aria. The MSC Poesia offers the latest eco-technology to safeguard the environment, without compromising comfort and luxury. Suites and staterooms are spacious and elegant. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining and entertainment options along with outdoor movies on an immense screen by the pool. And for the kids, MSC Cruises offers age appropriate Kids' programs from 3-17 years old.
On board the magnificent MSC Lirica you'll find our longstanding dedication to hospitality while enjoying the ultimate in guest amenities. With an atmosphere and service comparable to the best of Italian hotels, the MSC Lirica features the highest quality materials and luxurious amenities available to fully immerse our guests in an elegant environment that is clearly Italian.
The MSC Lirica offers cozy comfort in a traditional yet elegant setting. Like beautiful lyrics set to music, the MSC Lirica cruise ship is perfectly in tune with the sea. Her timeless Italian design and ambiance features gleaming marble, plush fabrics and fine artwork. If you are looking for a more casual resort ambience, decorated in an opulent yet relaxed style, the delightful MSC Lirica cruise liner is your ideal choice. The MSC Lirica launched in 2003, weighs in at 59,000 gross tons, is 824 feet in length and carries up to 1,560 guests based on double occupancy in 780 staterooms, The MSC Lirica country of registry is Panama.
Relax at the pool with a cool drink on your days of classic cruising at sea while the kids enjoy the complimentary youth club programs. Check e-mail in the Internet Café or the Wi-Fi areas of the ship. MSC Lirica has a very cosmopolitan itinerary and this is reflected in two of her popular meeting places onboard: the American-style Beverly Hills bar and the welcoming English-style Lord Nelson pub. Take advantage of the best of world cuisines served at each restaurant or go for casual family fun at the pizzeria. Take time out at the Lirica Health Center: indulge in beauty and spa treatments as you look out though floor-to-ceiling picture windows and magnificent ocean views.
Cruising is one of the best ways to see the sights and sounds of the world. MSC Lirica is an ideal choice for families and first-time cruise passengers thanks to its smaller size and welcoming atmosphere.
The fine woodwork, marble floors, vibrant fabrics and panoramic windows with dramatic sea views, create the perfect environment for a multi-cultural cruise experience on the MSC Opera. An experience accompanied by fine Italian and international cuisine and excellent resort facilities.
MSC Opera cruise ship certainly lives up to her name - classic, grand, opulent - and really is a luxury cruise ship with something to sing about! A true sense of grandeur and spaciousness prevails on MSC Opera. The MSC Opera launched in 2004, weighs in at 59,000 gross tons, is 824 feet in length and comes up to 1,712 guests based on double occupancy in 856 staterooms. The MSC Opera country is registry is Panama.
Displaying the hallmark Italian style found on all of MSC Cruises’ stately ships, the public areas are enhanced by a sweeping marble reception area and magnificent open spaces with glass walls in order to best exploit the fabulous ocean views.
To travel on MSC Opera is to experience the best of old-fashioned elegance with the best of modern home comforts. Once onboard MSC Opera you can look forward to a truly authentic Italian experience: enjoy an espresso at the coffee bar or indulge in a typical handmade Italian treat at the ice cream bar. Take Italian lessons, stop by the Internet Café or catch up on news back home and make use of our Wi-Fi spots in select areas of the ship.
Why leave the kids at home, when MSC offers onboard entertainment in our complimentary kids club? What's more, kids 11 years and under sail free on MSC, making it the ultimate & affordable family vacation! Spend quality time with the kids in a round of mini-golf, take classes at the health club and when evening falls, and join us for an elegant seven-course dinner followed by outstanding entertainment in our splendid Teatro dell' Opera.
AMAWATERWAYS was founded in 2002 and leads the way in river cruising with their custom built river ships designed with their valued travellers in mind. Their innovative fleet of ships were designed to maximize the enjoyment, convenience and comfort of their guests and with a high staff-to-guest radio they provide more attentive service. AMAWATERWAYS offer a full program of daily included sightseeing tours led by accomplished tour guides, as well as entertainment and educational options. Guests can either join the sightseeing tour or relax onboard and let the wonderful scenery float by. Their ships feature state-of-the-art public areas with great art work, new amenities and services, exquisitely decorated staterooms and gourmet dining; all of which provide an unparalleled cruise vacation.
The “AMAWATERWAYS Difference” extends to a myriad of complimentary amenities that guests enjoy on a daily basis. Inclusive features distinguishing the line from its competition include: complimentary Wi-Fi; complimentary, free-flowing local wines at dinner and a specialty coffee and tea station. Each ship has an elevator, which very few river cruise ships feature. Each cruise is accompanied by a professional cruise director. In addition to the complimentary included sightseeing tours, guests also have the ability to purchase optional tours that provide additional opportunities to sample the local culture.
Ship – AMADOLCE sailing from Paris to Amsterdam
Ship – AMADAGIO sailing from Barcelona to Paris
Enjoy the finest river cruise experience in Europe aboard the award winning AMADOLCE or AMADAGIO. These custom designed, premium vessels carry only 148/150 passengers and introduced a new standard of cruising on the great waterways of Europe by offering amenities not found on other lines. Both ships are registered under Switzerland. The AMADOLCE launched in 2009 and the AMADAGIO launched in 2006. Inside your exquisitely decorated stateroom, you will find all the amenities of a fine hotel with white-on-white plush bedding, a cozy sitting area, individually controlled air conditioning with ample closet space. Staterooms range from 170 sq ft to 255 sq ft suites with French balconies on 83% of all staterooms. Dining on AMAWATERWAYS is a delight. The highly-experienced chefs use fresh regional produce to create a range of culinary masterpieces that highlight the cultures and traditions of the region. Local wines flow freely at dinner, giving you the pleasure of sampling numerous fine vintages produced by European vineyards. After dinner enjoy a variety of entertainment throughout your cruise. Each night, as different performers come aboard to enchant and delight, you’ll learn more about the traditions of the region you are visiting. It’s the perfect complement to each day’s discovery. So come aboard and explore Europe’s ancient waterways with Sunwing and AMAWATERWAYS.
