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Bella Experience Inside Cabin
275 Inside cabins approximately from 13 to 20 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins...-
Interior Bella Cabin - Category I1
I1AUD $1,739
total per person
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Fantastica Experience Inside Cabin
275 Inside cabins approximately from 13 to 20 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins...-
Interior Fantastica Cabin - Category I2
I2AUD $1,883
total per person
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Bella Experience Obstructed View Cabin
92 Outside with partial view cabins approximately from 16 to 17 m2. (This size range includes both standard...-
Obstructed Oceanview Bella - Category O1
O1AUD $1,931
total per person
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Fantastica Experience Ocean View Cabin
81 Ocean View cabins approximately from 16 sq.m to 17 sq.m.(* This size range includes both standard cabins...-
Ocean View Fantastica Cabin Category O2
O2AUD $2,075
total per person
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Bella Experience Balcony Cabin
809 Balcony cabins approximately from 17 to 39 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins...-
Balcony Bella Cabin - Category B1
B1AUD $2,123
total per person
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Fantastica Experience Balcony Cabin
809 Balcony cabins approximately from 17 to 39 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins...-
Balcony Fantastica Cabin - Category B2
B2AUD $2,267
total per person
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Aurea Experience Inside Cabin
275 Inside cabins approximately from 13 to 20 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins...-
Interior Aurea Cabin - Category I3
I3AUD $2,651
total per person
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Aurea Experience Balcony Cabin
809 Balcony cabins approximately from 17 sq.m to 39 sq.m.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and...-
Balcony Aurea Cabin- Category B3
B3AUD $3,035
total per person
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Aurea Experience Suite
18 Suites with private balcony, approximately 31 m2. Double bed that can be converted to two single beds...-
Aurea Experience Suite - Category S3
S3AUD $3,419
total per person
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Cabin - Category FLA
FLAAUD $4,360
total per person
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Bella Experience Inside Cabin
- 275 Inside cabins approximately from 13 to 20 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility, which are larger.)
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility.
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Bella Experience
- Relax in a well-equipped cabin and enjoy the wide variety of superb facilities on board.
- Request your preferred dinner sitting and spoil yourself with the delights of a gourmet buffet that’s open 20 hours a day.
- Enjoy Broadway style entertainment and a packed programme of daily activities organised by MSC Cruises' multilingual team of friendly staff.
- Take advantage of the pool, cutting-edge panoramic gym and open-air sports facilities to stay in shape.
- You can even earn MSC Voyagers Club points so that you can enjoy even more benefits on your next cruise.
Fantastica Experience Inside Cabin
- 275 Inside cabins approximately from 13 to 20 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility, which are larger.)
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility.
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Fantastica Experience
Fantastica Experience fares offer all the benefits of ‘Bella’ plus a variety of extra privileges.
- Choose from prestigious cabins (including Super Family cabins where available) located on the upper decks, with easy access to lifts and lounges.
- Make use of the freedom to change your booking details if necessary, including guest names and departure dates: even cancellation is flexible.
- Enjoy 24-hour-a-day room service with free delivery and priority choice of dining times in the gourmet restaurants.
- Have fun with organised activities for children including foreign language games and Master Chef cooking sessions with staff.
- You can even earn MSC Voyagers Club points so that you can enjoy even more benefits on your next cruise.
Bella Experience Obstructed View Cabin
- 92 Outside with partial view cabins approximately from 16 to 17 m2. (This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility, which are larger. )
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility.
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Bella Experience
- Relax in a well-equipped cabin and enjoy the wide variety of superb facilities on board.
- Request your preferred dinner sitting and spoil yourself with the delights of a gourmet buffet that’s open 20 hours a day.
- Enjoy Broadway style entertainment and a packed programme of daily activities organised by MSC Cruises' multilingual team of friendly staff.
- Take advantage of the pool, cutting-edge panoramic gym and open-air sports facilities to stay in shape.
- You can even earn MSC Voyagers Club points so that you can enjoy even more benefits on your next cruise.
Fantastica Experience Ocean View Cabin
- 81 Ocean View cabins approximately from 16 sq.m to 17 sq.m.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility, which are larger.)
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility.
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Fantastica Experience
Fantastica Experience fares offer all the benefits of ‘Bella’ plus a variety of extra privileges.
- Choose from prestigious cabins (including Super Family cabins where available) located on the upper decks, with easy access to lifts and lounges.
- Make use of the freedom to change your booking details if necessary, including guest names and departure dates: even cancellation is flexible.
- Enjoy 24-hour-a-day room service with free delivery and priority choice of dining times in the gourmet restaurants.
- Have fun with organised activities for children including foreign language games and Master Chef cooking sessions with staff.
- You can even earn MSC Voyagers Club points so that you can enjoy even more benefits on your next cruise.
Bella Experience Balcony Cabin
- 809 Balcony cabins approximately from 17 to 39 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility,which are larger.)
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility. (This does not apply to cabin 15025)
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Bella Experience
- Relax in a well-equipped cabin and enjoy the wide variety of superb facilities on board.
- Request your preferred dinner sitting and spoil yourself with the delights of a gourmet buffet that’s open 20 hours a day.
- Enjoy Broadway style entertainment and a packed programme of daily activities organised by MSC Cruises' multilingual team of friendly staff.
- Take advantage of the pool, cutting-edge panoramic gym and open-air sports facilities to stay in shape.
- You can even earn MSC Voyagers Club points so that you can enjoy even more benefits on your next cruise.
Fantastica Experience Balcony Cabin
- 809 Balcony cabins approximately from 17 to 39 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility,which are larger.)
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility. (This does not apply to cabin 15025)
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Fantastica Experience
Fantastica Experience fares offer all the benefits of ‘Bella’ plus a variety of extra privileges.
- Choose from prestigious cabins (including Super Family cabins where available) located on the upper decks, with easy access to lifts and lounges.
- Make use of the freedom to change your booking details if necessary, including guest names and departure dates: even cancellation is flexible.
- Enjoy 24-hour-a-day room service with free delivery and priority choice of dining times in the gourmet restaurants.
- Have fun with organised activities for children including foreign language games and Master Chef cooking sessions with staff.
- You can even earn MSC Voyagers Club points so that you can enjoy even more benefits on your next cruise.
Aurea Experience Inside Cabin
- 275 Inside cabins approximately from 13 to 20 m2.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility, which are larger.)
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility.
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Exclusive Aurea Experience
In addition to all the features of ‘Bella’ and ‘Fantastica’, our ‘Aurea’ fares offer a series of relaxing benefits for body and soul.
- Embark smoothly with priority boarding then relax in an elegant cabin where you’ll find a set of free wellbeing products as well as a complimentary bathrobe and slippers. Dine at the time of your choice in a reserved area of the restaurant, enjoying 24-hour unlimited drinks.*
- Bask in the exclusivity of a private sun deck. Best of all, take advantage of a fantastic Spa package including a spa welcome cocktail, one massage of your choice from the spa menu, tanning shower, private wellness consultation and unrestricted use of the Thermal Area throughout your cruise (available only for adults). Set sail for pure relaxation.
* The drink package refers to Allegrissimo or More For Less (Starting from summer 2017 these packages will be re-named ALL-INCLUSIVE RESTAURANT & BAR DRINK PACKAGE and ALL-INCLUSIVE CLASSIC DRINK PACKAGE), following cruise destinations.
Aurea Experience Balcony Cabin
- 809 Balcony cabins approximately from 17 sq.m to 39 sq.m.(* This size range includes both standard cabins and cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility,which are larger. )
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request), except cabins for guests with disabilities or reduced mobility.(This does not apply to cabin 15025)
- Air conditioning, bathroom with shower, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Exclusive Aurea Experience
In addition to all the features of ‘Bella’ and ‘Fantastica’, our ‘Aurea’ fares offer a series of relaxing benefits for body and soul.
- Embark smoothly with priority boarding then relax in an elegant cabin where you’ll find a set of free wellbeing products as well as a complimentary bathrobe and slippers. Dine at the time of your choice in a reserved area of the restaurant, enjoying 24-hour unlimited drinks.*
- Bask in the exclusivity of a private sun deck. Best of all, take advantage of a fantastic Spa package including a spa welcome cocktail, one massage of your choice from the spa menu, tanning shower, private wellness consultation and unrestricted use of the Thermal Area throughout your cruise (available only for adults). Set sail for pure relaxation.
* The drink package refers to Allegrissimo or More For Less (Starting from summer 2017 these packages will be re-named ALL-INCLUSIVE RESTAURANT & BAR DRINK PACKAGE and ALL-INCLUSIVE CLASSIC DRINK PACKAGE), following cruise destinations.
Aurea Experience Suite
- 18 Suites with private balcony, approximately 31 m2.
- Double bed that can be converted to two single beds (on request).
- Air conditioning, spacious wardrobe, bathroom with bathtub, interactive TV, telephone, wireless internet access (for a fee), mini bar, safe.
Exclusive Aurea Experience
In addition to all the features of ‘Bella’ and ‘Fantastica’, our ‘Aurea’ fares offer a series of relaxing benefits for body and soul.
- Embark smoothly with priority boarding then relax in an elegant cabin where you’ll find a set of free wellbeing products as well as a complimentary bathrobe and slippers. Dine at the time of your choice in a reserved area of the restaurant, enjoying 24-hour unlimited drinks.*
- Bask in the exclusivity of a private sun deck. Best of all, take advantage of a fantastic Spa package including a spa welcome cocktail, one massage of your choice from the spa menu, tanning shower, private wellness consultation and unrestricted use of the Thermal Area throughout your cruise (available only for adults). Set sail for pure relaxation.
* The drink package refers to Allegrissimo or More For Less (Starting from summer 2017 these packages will be re-named ALL-INCLUSIVE RESTAURANT & BAR DRINK PACKAGE and ALL-INCLUSIVE CLASSIC DRINK PACKAGE), following cruise destinations.
Photo coming soon
Multiple Decks
Interior Bella Cabin - Category I1
Multiple Decks
Interior Fantastica Cabin - Category I2
Deck 8 - Arpa
Obstructed Oceanview Bella - Category O1
Multiple Decks
Ocean View Fantastica Cabin Category O2
Multiple Decks
Balcony Bella Cabin - Category B1
Multiple Decks
Balcony Fantastica Cabin - Category B2
Deck 15 - Xilofono
Interior Aurea Cabin - Category I3
Multiple Decks
Balcony Aurea Cabin- Category B3
Deck 15 - Xilofono
Aurea Experience Suite - Category S3
Cabin - Category FLA
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 BPAY or bank transfer. Visa and Mastercard payments incur a 1.5% transaction fee.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Venice Depart: Sat, Jul 25, 2020 @ 16:30 -
Day 2
BariArrive: Sun, Jul 26, 2020 @ 10:30
Depart: Sun, Jul 26, 2020 @ 17:00
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Day 3
KatakolonArrive: Mon, Jul 27, 2020 @ 11:00
Depart: Mon, Jul 27, 2020 @ 17:00
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Day 4
MykanosArrive: Tue, Jul 28, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Tue, Jul 28, 2020 @ 19:00
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Day 5
Piraeus (Athens)Arrive: Wed, Jul 29, 2020 @ 07:30
Depart: Wed, Jul 29, 2020 @ 16:30
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Day 6
SarandeArrive: Thu, Jul 30, 2020 @ 12:00
Depart: Thu, Jul 30, 2020 @ 20:00
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Day 7
DubrovnikArrive: Fri, Jul 31, 2020 @ 09:00
Depart: Fri, Jul 31, 2020 @ 15:00
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Day 8
Venice Arrive: Sat, Aug 1, 2020 @ 08:30
Onboard experience
- The restaurant, open only at night, is a much quiester and more romantic setting than any other restaurants on MSC Orchestra. The menu can best be described as an upscale steakhouse menu. A selection of items including thick cut steaks, lamb chops, and a huge veal chop are complemented by a couple of pasta dishes to satisfy vegetarian tastes.
- L’Ibiscus is Upper restaurant with 714 seats. The 2-story main dining room has something for everyone. Villa Borghese, the lower restaurant, locates on Deck 5. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the L'Ibiscus or stop in for Chinese at the Shanghai.
- Have you ever been to the Orient? Here, the Shanghai Chinese Restaurant offers you an opportunity to taste some real Chinese food. You will fall in love with the Orient.
Sports and Spa
- Maintain your regular fitness program or try a new one. Dig a little deeper with muscle and mind-melting massages to relax from top to bottom as you indulge yourself with a massage or maybe even a facial.
Stage Shows
- The theater features a fibre optic lighting system, with colors that can be changed to create the desired effects and atmosphere in seconds. Meyer Sound provides the best quality in sound. There are three screens in the theater – a central screen for the projections, presentations and films, plus two smaller lateral screens used to emphasis the central projection with wording and additional information.
Bars and Lounges
- 20 stations
- A laser printer
- 12 monitors with 19-inch screens
- 3 monitors with 32-inch screens by the reception desk
- 3 monitors with 42-inch screens in designated areas, showing life on board and posting notices.
- A 63-inch monitor at the end of the corridor is visible from all angles of the wine bar. Four 50-inch monitors are in the reception area, transmitting video/photographic material. Additionally, at the entrances there are two 27-inch monitors plus a 50-iinch monitor.
- The Savannah Bar is ideal for meetings, conferences, presentations and more! It boasts a screen and fibre optic lighting.
- The Shaker Lounge can be used for presentations and conferences. There are six monitors with 42-inch screens (three on each side) and a video projection screen.
Kids Club
- Kids can go wild to their heart’s content in the Jungle Adventure playroom, while teens get their own Teen’s Club. Whatever your age and dreams, you can be sure they’ll come true for you, your friends and family on a cruise like no other with MSC Orchestra.
Casino
- Slot machines, Roulette table or even have a drink, you will find your game and relax at Palm Beach Casino.
Art Classes
- There is a wall with 12 50-inch plasma monitors showing video and photographic material in the Photo Gallery. This wall will display photos of guests taken by photographer at different time. You can order and print the photos you like.
Swimming
- In the pool area there is an LED screen measuring 21 feet x 12 feet, a BARCO model Olite 612 SMD, providing the best resolution for an external screen and offering visibility in all conditions. Here TV, films and onboard events are transmitted. The sound system is 24,000 watts and, therefore, can cover the entire pool deck from stem to stern. The quality of the sound can be appreciated from any external point onboard the ship. The pool area is an ideal place for evening events with many lights and lighting effects.
Shopping
- The shops, sell perfume, cosmetics, clothing, electronics and duty-free items that can be consumed onboard. There is also an Electronic Shop with a wide selection of electrical goods that many guests are interested in.
Ship info
The second ship in the 'Musica†class, MSC Orchestra offers luxury cruising at its best. With 1275 stylish and spacious cabins (80% outside), five specialty restaurants, 10 bars, two of which are open-air and the serene Body and Mind spa, there is something for everyone onboard the MSC Orchestra. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the L'Ibiscus restaurant or stop in for Chinese at the Shanghai. If you feel like a dance after dining, try the Shaker Lounge on the Saxofono deck.
Stop by the Internet Cafe of take part in a game of tennis or basketball. Relax by the stunning Acapulco pool or the Cala Blanca pool with a massive 28 m2 LED screen for watching movies under the stars. The state-of -the art cruise ship offers interactive kiosks where guests can book shore excursions and download photos from digital cameras or mobile phones. And for chocoholics, a Chocolate Bar, where those dedicated to loving all things chocolate can indulge.
Welcome you to experience the MSC Orchestra as she sails to exotic and delightful destinations on the cruise holiday of a lifetime.
- Vessel: MSC Orchestra
- Year: 2007
- Beam: 106
- Cruising speed: 23
- Bars/Lounges: 14
- Casino : 1
- Crew: 1,054
- Gross Tonnage: 92,409 tons
- Onboard Currency: Euro
- Passenger Capacity: 3,223
- Restaurants: 5
- Shopping Areas: 10
- SPA Baths: 2
- Vessel: 4
- 24 Hour Cabin Service
- All Main Meals Included
- Duty Free Shops
- Guest Entertainers
- Gym
- Jogging Track
- Library
- Live Music
- Mini Golf
- Teen's Club
- Tennis Court
- Wine Tasting Bar
Decks
MSC Orchestra - Deck Plans
Cruise reviews
- Food
- Entertainment
- Cabin
- Crew
- Price
- Value
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"Grand Voyage "
This is the second time we have travelled With MSC the first was on MSC Poscia a beautifull ship and it was well run by all crew entertainment was first class this time we travelled on MSC Orchestra on a 33 day cruise the main issues were the entertainment was very poor and did not cater for all age groups food in the buffet was very average and officers on board were very rude to English speaking passengers this was a completer contrast to our 19 day cruise onboard Poscia Both ships being Sister ships of the exact size and layout were of the finest quality and could not fault that in any way I would try MSC again but not the Orchestra as I think it was just the attitude on board that ship of all senior officers . Both ships had on very good thing in their favor was that the resturant staff being mostly from Bali or asian countries and were of the finest you could ever get service was first class on all levels my overall impression of the cruise line was that I would travel MSC AGAIN but not MSC Orchersta unless major changes had been made to officers who run the ship
Read morePeter L - Sep 2015
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Cruise code: OR20200725VCEVCE
7 Nights
East Mediterranean Cruise
- Departing from Venice
- MSC Orchestra
Receive up to $600 onboard credit per cabin. May not apply to all cabin categories.
- Private ensuite
- Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
- In cabin safe
- All main meals onboard
- Musical stage shows and entertainment
- Special guest entertainers
- Latest release movies (in cabin and on big screen)
- Choice of Bars and Lounges
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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