What if I'm travelling with a minor and I'm not the parent or legal guardian?
Celebrity Cruises takes the security and safety of its guests very seriously. Our 'Travelling with Minors' policy was incepted primarily to safeguard children and to ensure that the responsible adult with whom they are travelling has the appropriate authority and the legal right to do so throughout the duration of their cruise holiday with us. The reasoning for this is two-fold:-
In the event that a child requires medical attention at any time during their cruise holiday, Celebrity Cruises needs to ensure that the responsible adult with whom the child is travelling has the legal right to authorise that any medical treatment be administered. In the event that a child is travelling without their custodial parent/legal guardian, Celebrity Cruises needs to ensure that the child's custodial parent/legal guardian has authorised the responsible adult to take their child on holiday; particularly as in the majority of cases, this will be out of their primary country of residence. This applies even when the responsible adult is a member of the child's extended family (i.e. Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles etc.).
Additionally, when a child does not share the same surname as their custodial parent/legal guardian, Celebrity Cruises requires that the custodial parent/legal guardian produce legal documented evidence that the child is in their primary care; this includes, but is not limited to: birth, marriage, divorce, adoption certificates as appropriate. These measures are in place to protect children and to ensure no child is taken on board a Celebrity Cruises vessel without the knowledge and consent of their custodial parent/legal guardian. We want you to have a happy and healthy cruise holiday experience with us and this is just one of the ways we ensure this is possible.
What is a legal guardian?
In most cases, a legal guardian must be appointed by a court. There are some exceptions to this rule. Parents of a minor child are assumed to be the child's legal guardians, unless the court has taken parenting privileges away out of concern for the child's well-being. It is also possible for someone to designate a legal guardian in a will, as in the case of a single parent who specifies that an aunt will become the child's legal guardian in the event of the parent's death or incapacitation. Legal guardians are in charge of ensuring that their wards (those persons placed under the care of a legal guardian) are given physical care and comfort, including food, medical attention, housing, and similar needs. They are also usually charged with ensuring that their wards have access to education and other benefits.
Adults who are not the parent or legal guardian of a minor travelling with them must present an original legally affirmed or notarised letter signed by the child's parent(s), authorising the adult to take the child on the specific cruise, supervise the child and allow emergency medical treatment to be administered. In addition parents travelling with minors who do not have the same surname must present proof of parentage which may include but is not limited to birth certificates, marriage certificates or divorce papers etc.
Please note: An individual's age on the date of sailing determines his or her status for the entire cruise holiday. Celebrity Cruises does not accept reservations for student groups. Please consult a travel agent for Celebrity Cruises group policies.
Please see below the attached template which can be used for all details required on the letter authorising a minor 17 or under to travel with an accompanying adult who is NOT their parent or legal guardian. This is required as per our terms and conditions. It must be signed by a Notary, Commissioner for Oaths or a Solicitor for it to be suitable to take to the pier for boarding.
Notarised letter
What about alcoholic drinks?
Alcohol Waiver and Acceptance of Responsibility? International
The minimum drinking age for all alcoholic beverages on all Celebrity Cruises ships is 21 years of age.
However, on ships in Europe, South America and Australia, where the legal drinking age is lower than 21, a parent who is sailing with his or her son(s) and/or daughter(s) who is between the ages of 18 to 20, may sign a waiver allowing the 18 to 20 year old to consume alcoholic beverages.
The 18 to 20 year-old must agree to comply with Celebrity Cruises' policies, including among other things, agreeing to not provide alcoholic beverages to any other person, regardless of age. Restrictions apply, and this policy is subject to change without notice.
If a guest reaches a birthday that will change their adherence to our alcohol policy, they may visit the Concierge Desk and on showing their passport as proof of age, their records will be updated to allow them to purchase and consume alcohol, as long as the other requirements of our alcohol policy are met.
Guests are not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages onboard for consumption or any other use. Alcoholic beverages that are purchased in ports of call or from onboard shops will be stored by the ship and delivered to guest staterooms on the last day of the sailing. Security may inspect containers (water bottles, soda bottles, mouthwash, luggage etc.) and will dispose of containers holding alcohol. Celebrity Cruises' Guest Vacation Policy may be enforced, up to and including disembarkation, if a guest violates any alcohol policy. Guests under the age of 21 will not have alcohol returned to them.
You are allowed to bring onboard on the day of embarkation only, 2 bottles of wine per stateroom. These are for personal consumption and if consumed in a public area there is a corkage fee of $25 USD per bottle.
Guests who violate any alcohol policies, (over consume, provide alcohol to people under age 21, demonstrate irresponsible behavior, or attempt to conceal alcoholic items at security and or luggage check points or any other time), may be disembarked or not allowed to board, at their own expense, in accordance with our Guest Vacation Policies.
Celebrity Cruises reserves the right to revoke or otherwise restrict drinking privileges of any guest, regardless of age. Even if all criteria are met, shipboard personnel may elect, and have the option to, not grant the waiver or any such drinking privileges. The waiver may not apply when the vessel is in certain territorial waters.
How do I book a beverage package?
The packages can be pre-reserved upto a minimum of four days before your sail date. To purchase beverage packages online please visit beverage packages for more information. To purchase onboard, please visit the Guest Relations desk for more information.
Once you have confirmed your purchase online, the order cannot be modified. You may, however, cancel the order and then make your purchase(s) again.
When can I board the ship?
Boarding time varies by itinerary. Please check your cruise ticket booklet for confirmed boarding time. It is your responsibility to arrive on time unless you are transferring to the ship via our transport. Please note that, for security reasons, you will not be allowed to bring any visitors on board the ship in any port.
In order to make your boarding process as simple as possible, we recommend that you complete the online Guest Documentation. If this is not possible, your embarkation forms will automatically be included with your cruise documents. Please complete these forms before you arrive at the cruise terminal.
Please note: If you have booked one of our Celebrity Xpeditions to the Galapagos Islands, you will be transferred to and from the pier at Baltra to your cruise ship, and to and from the islands from your cruise ship by tender (a small boat). Wet landings may occur on visits to the islands. A wet landing is where you are transferred by tender from the Xpedition ship to as close to the shore as possible and you are required to step through shallow water before reaching dry land.
What if I want to cancel/ amend my booking?
For cancellations received from June 1st 2009 onwards, the following cancellations charges will apply:
6 days or less: 100%
6 to 14 days: 90%
15 - 28 days: 75%
29 - 56 days: 50%
57 days or more: Deposit only (£150 per person)
For full Booking Conditions, please view or download our brochure.
Can I change my stateroom after arrival on board?
Subject to availability, you may upgrade to a higher category stateroom after you have checked in. The upgrades, if available, are done and paid for at the Pier Coordinator's desk. You can pay for the upgrade with either credit card, cash or in traveller's cheques.
Subject to availability, you may upgrade to a higher category stateroom after boarding or setting sail by paying the difference in the published applicable full cruise fare in cash or traveller's cheques.
Can I transfer my reservation to a travel agent if I purchased my cruise directly from Celebrity Cruises?
Any bookings made online in receipt of the 5% discount cannot be transferred to a travel agent. If you have made a booking directly with one of our personal cruise specialists you may transfer your reservation within 48 hours of paying the deposit, any booking paid in full cannot be transferred. Please read the Terms and Conditions on this form before completing Travel Agent Transfer Form PDF and send it back to us by one of the options outlined on the form.
How do I check in for boarding the ship?
In order to make your check-in and boarding process as simple as possible, we recommend that you go online at www.celebritycruises.com to complete your embarkation forms. Click on Prepare to Sail and then Embarkation Forms. If you complete embarkation forms online, you do not need to complete the Guest Clearance Form within your travel documents. If completing your embarkation forms online is not possible, your embarkation forms will automatically be included with your cruise documents.
Please complete these forms before you arrive at the cruise terminal. In the cruise terminal, simply present your cruise documents at the check-in desk. Once all the necessary forms have been completed, you will receive your Celebrity Seapass. You will then be permitted to board the ship. The Seapass is your identification card for reboarding the ship in the various ports of call, the key to your stateroom and your Charge Card for all your onboard purchases. Upon arrival in your stateroom, you will find your dining and seating confirmation. Your Stateroom Attendant will deliver your luggage as soon as possible after boarding. We recommend that items such as medicines are packed in your hand luggage.
Can I be contacted?
Friends and family can reach guests on any Celebrity ship 24 hours a day by calling 001 732 335 3296. Callers must pay by credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express). There is no charge for waiting or dialling time; charges begin when the caller connects to the ship. Please note, on our Celebrity Xpeditions to the Galapagos Islands, a telephone service is available in each stateroom for a reasonable fee.
Details about contacting the Celebrity Xpeditions ship will be provided in the Guest Ticket Booklet. Alternatively, friends and family can e-mail you providing you have an internet e-mail account. E-mail centres are available on all Celebrity ships except Celebrity Xpeditions. Costs will be charged to your Seapass account. Please note that mobile phones with international capability will not work whilst a ship is at sea.
When and where can I dine on board?
For meal times and location on Celebrity Xpeditions ships, please see below. For all other ships, there are two seatings for meals in the main dining room. If you have a preference, you should make this known at the time of booking. Please note that dining times and seating requests cannot be guaranteed, but every reasonable effort will be made to meet your request. The normal times for evening meals in the main dining room are as follows:
- Early Seating: 18:15
- Late Seating: 20:30
Please note that dining times may vary slightly by itinerary (usually later on European sailings). If you wish to be more flexible, breakfast and lunch are also served in alternative locations. Please check your Daily Programme for times and locations. Continental breakfast is served on request in your stateroom between 06:30 and 10:00. A Room Service menu is available 24 hours a day. Guests in suites can request a full menu for each meal to be served in their suite. Food on board is included in the cost of your cruise price, however a cover charge between $25-$40 per guest will apply for Specialty Restaurants on Celebrity ships. Reservations are required for the Specialty restaurants and are on a first come first served basis and taken daily on board. No guests under 12 will be permitted in these restaurants.
What is the children policy in the Blu restaurant onboard Solstice Class?
Children of any age that are booked in AquaClass staterooms are welcome to dine in Blu with an adult. Additionally, children that are booked in suites that are at least 12 years old will be accommodated in Blu when dining with an adult, based on availability. Please note that any suite guests that dine in Blu will be charged a recommended gratuity of $5 per guest
What do I need to do on the last night of the cruise?
Pack your bags and place them outside your stateroom door by midnight. Your stateroom attendant will give you tags for each piece of luggage. Please clearly write your name, home address and, where applicable, flight details on each tag. Carry fragile, important and valuable items with you. We recommend that you bring an overnight bag with you for your last night on board.
How should I prepare for disembarkation?
The Cruise Director will give detailed instructions about clearing customs and immigration during the departure talk on the last day of the cruise. We strongly recommend that you attend this important and informative talk; you can also view this talk on your stateroom TV.
Please Note: All passengers will be expected to have disembarked the vessel within three hours of the start time of the disembarkation process. For the exact timings that apply to your sailing, please contact your travel agent or call us directly on 01932 834325.
When should I schedule my flight home?
If we are not arranging this for you, make sure you allow sufficient time. Give yourself several hours between the time you get off the ship and the time you need to check-in for your flight home.
What about electrical equipment?
The on board voltage is 110/220 AC (maximum 1500 watts) so please take any necessary adapters. Hair-dryers are provided in all staterooms. Dial up Internet connections are available in staterooms on board selected and Millennium Class ships.
What about facilities for families?
There are children's facilities and entertainment on board all Celebrity ships at selected times of the year. Please ask your travel agent or cruise specialist to check if the programme will be available on your chosen sailing. Programme hours may vary by ship/itinerary.
- The programme is available for 3-17 year olds, divided into 4 age groups:
- Shipmates (3 - 6 years)
- Celebrity Cadets (7 - 9 years)
- Ensigns (10 - 12 years)
- Admiral T's (13 - 17 years)
All children participating in children's programmes must be toilet trained. A small charge may be made for some children's activities. Children are not allowed in the Casino. Cots are available for babies and should be requested at the time of making a reservation. Please note that these will limit the floor space available in your stateroom. Baby-sitting and child minding (for a nominal fee) can usually be arranged and cruise staff are available to provide this service. The minimum age for in stateroom baby-sitting is 1 years old.
Are there gambling facilities onboard?
There is a fully equipped Casino on board all Celebrity ships where you can play popular games such as blackjack or roulette, as well as slot machines. You should consult your Daily Programme for opening times; Please note that the Casino is closed whenever the ship is in port. Guests under the age of 18 are not permitted in the Casino at any time. Guests are advised that the use of any video recording or camera equipment is strictly prohibited. No gambling facilities are available on Celebrity Xpedition ship.
What are on board service charges?
For details please visit our gratuities page.
What if I wish to reward service personnel by my own choice?
Hotel service charges are shared amongst all the crew members from the hotel and dining room areas that have looked after you during your cruise, from the waiters in the restaurant to your stateroom attendants. If you wish to make your own arrangements, all guests are more than welcome to give monetary rewards personally.
What do the ship's Guest Relations staff do?
Staff at the Guest Relations Desk are available 24 hours a day and can assist you with items concerning port information, acts as your post master, and any other questions that you may have.
Laundry and dry cleaning services are available on board, prices vary by garment type. Please contact your airline directly to ascertain the up to date position for the carriage of electrical and other items.
How does the new Bag Tag Mailer help with the luggage delivery onboard?
You will see that our new luggage labels are a full colour version, updated with important information and graphics to enable our crew to sort and deliver luggage to all areas of the ship in the most
efficient manner.
How do I get a Bag Tag mailer?
Ifyou visit our Online Check-in section you will see that there is the facility there to request a bag tag mailer, but only after your cruise e-docs have been released.
How far in advance of sailing can the Bag Tag Mailer be requested?
The Bag Tag Mailer can only be requested once the e-docs (Electronic Cruise Tickets) have been released to the Travel Agent/Guest. Earliest would be approximately 55 days before sail date.
How do I provide my postal address?
Once you have found your tickets are available on our website, or your travel agent says they have been released, you can do it through this website, using either the ‘Online Check-In’ function or the
‘My Celebrity’ section. Here you will be able to request the Bag Tag Mailer, by providing the postal address you wish us to use, then the bag tags will be delivered to you within 8 working days.
Do I have to complete the online check-in process to request Bag Tags?
No. The Bag Tag Mailer can be requested on the front page of the Online Check-In section, without being required to go any further. We do however strongly recommend that Online Check-In is
completed no later than 3 days before departure date to enable a speedy check-in at the pier, and to allow us to contact you in case we need to provide any pre cruise information directly to yourself.
What is the latest date that the Bag Tag Mailer can be requested?
There will be a cut-off point at which we will no longer send out the Bag Tag Mailer; currently this is 10 days* prior to the date of sailing. Once this cut-off is reached, no more Bag Tags can be
requested, so a Guest would then need to collect luggage labels once they arrive at the pier for check-in. *14 days for Gibraltar and the Falklands.
How many times can a Guest ‘On Demand’ a Bag Tag Mailer online?
There is a maximum of 2 times, that a Guest can request bag tags through the website. As you get 8 tags on a sheet, there should be no requirement for more than 2 sets and this is only really for
Guests living at different postal addresses.
What happens if you do not get the Guest address?
If the Guest has not requested the bag tags through our website and the Guest address has not been provided by the Travel Agent by the time we reach the cut-off date, then no Bag Tag Mailer will be sent. As above, the Guest will need to collect Bag Tags once they arrive at the pier.
Will you ship the Bag Tag Mailer worldwide?
At this moment in time we will only post the Bag Tag Mailer to the United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands. We will not send a Bag Tag Mailer to any other locations.
I live outside of the above countries?
We would advise you to supply your travel agency address, so that they can receive the Bag Tag Mailer and then forward it to you, or maybe a friend or relative in one of the above locations. Otherwise, you can collect luggage tags at the pier.
I have booked a stateroom on a ‘Guarantee’ (GTY) basis. Can I still receive a Bag Tag Mailer?
Guests who have booked a GTY stateroom will only receive a Bag Tag Mailer if they are assigned their specific stateroom before the cut-off date is reached. This often may not be possible though, and Guest’s should then collect luggage labels at the pier.
What address details do you require when a Bag Tag Mailer is requested on the website?
You should supply the full postal address you would normally use. This includes a first name and surname, house name/number and street, town/city, county, postcode and country. Where any of the
above does not exist, then it should be left blank in the appropriate field.
I cannot see the option to request my bag tags on the website where you say it should be?
This could mean that the e-docs have not yet been released to the Travel Agent for the booking. Please check with your Travel Agent to see if they have had your tickets released yet or when logged in
to your booking on our website check the Online Check-In Summary section to see if your e-docs show as available. If they are, then on the Reservation Summary page you will find the button to
request Luggage Tags.
Save your time and money by using our Celebrity Cruises Luggage Valet Service.
Four simple steps and the job is done!
- Call us on 0845 6860662 and tell us how many cases need to be collected. (pay at time of reservation £35 per bag inc VAT)
- Tell us the date and port of embarkation. (Service available to Southampton for Celebrity Eclipse sailings only)
- Tell us where you want the cases picked up from. (Transit times from 24-96 hours subject to location on the UK mainland including the Isle of White (Service is unavailable in Northern Ireland)
- Tell us the date and place of disembarkation. (Service available to Southampton for Celebrity Eclipse sailings only)
What if I have medical needs?
Celebrity Cruises accommodates guests with medical conditions that require the use of dialysis or oxygen. These guests should contact us to discuss policies and procedures for bringing the appropriate equipment onboard.
If you have another type of medical condition that has not been mentioned, please inquire about policies and procedures that may affect your cruise. Call us at 0844 493 2043, send an e-mail to specialservices.uk@rccl.com or have your local travel agent contact us. You can also see further details here www.celebritycruises.co.uk/life-onboard/accessibility/
Dialysis
Guests requiring continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis are welcome to board all Celebrity Cruises® vessels. However, Celebrity Cruises does not have the ability to assist or administer hemo-dialysis treatments. Those guests using peritoneal dialysis should have all solutions and equipment needed to perform the dialysis delivered to the vessel on the day of sailing at least two hours prior to sailing. Please contact us for more information on policies and procedures.
Oxygen
All types of oxygen are permitted onboard. Please notify us as to quantity, type and delivery schedule. Each vessel has a different storage policy; however, you will be able to keep some or all of your cylinders in the stateroom.
Note: If you have another type of medical condition that has not been mentioned, please inquire about policies and procedures that may affect your cruise.
What happens if I am ill on board the ship?
Except for Celebrity Expedition ships, there is a medical centre onboard, which is usually staffed by a fully qualified doctor and at least one nurse. On our Celebrity Xpedition ship, there is usually one licensed (under Equadorian Law) doctor in attendance onboard. However, there is a charge for all medical services and adequate medical insurance is recommended. Charges are based upon US Government Medicare Physician Fee schedules. The medical centre provides complimentary motion sickness tablets if required.
What is the minimum age for infants sailing on a cruise?
Infants sailing on a cruise must be at least 6 months old as of the first day of the cruise/cruisetour. However, for Transatlantic, Transpacific, Hawaii, Australian and select South American cruises/cruisetours and other selected cruises/cruisetours, the infant must be at least 12 months old as of the first day of the cruise/Cruise Tour. For the purposes of this policy, any cruise that has 3 or more days consecutive at sea will require infants to be 12 months old on the first day of the cruise/Cruise Tour.
Denial of boarding for infants who do not satisfy these minimum age requirements may also result in the denial of boarding for one or more guests sailing with that infant. No refunds or other compensation shall be due from the cruise line to anyone as a result of the denial of boarding to an underage infant or other accompanying guests.
All items onboard the ship are priced in US Dollars. All Celebrity ships operate on a 'cashless' system. Simply validate your Celebrity Seapass with an acceptable credit or card. Then you can sign all on board purchases to your account. At the end of your cruise you will receive an itemised statement. Guests who pay their Seapass account with the credit card issued in a currency other than US Dollars will be charged in the same local currency that the credit card is issued in. For example, a GBP credit card issued in the UK will be charged in GBP.
We cannot accept personal cheques or sterling. Only US currency is accepted on board Celebrity ships however a cash machine is available on all Celebrity ships ($5.00 fee per transaction will be levied for this service). Please consult your on board Daily Programme for the opening times of the on board Bank. Ashore, most credit cards are accepted. In addition you should ensure that you have a small denomination of local currency for incidental expenditure ashore. We also recommend that you take sufficient funds in US$ traveller's cheques which may be cashed on board in small amounts. Currently the following credit cards are accepted: Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express.
What should I pack?
Whether on the ship or in a port of call, stylish resort wear is fine for both men and women. For warmer climates, this includes walking shorts and polo shirts, swim suits and cover-ups, lightweight slacks or skirts, and a light sweater. When visiting cooler climates, casual clothing that can be easily layered for warmth or comfort is recommended, along with a raincoat or umbrella, waterproof hat and gloves.
On all Celebrity cruises, it's wise to bring along comfortable, rubber-soled shoes, hat, sunglasses and a good sunscreen. Remember to pack any prescription medications or other personal care items you'll need.
What not to pack?
Weapons, illegal drugs, and other items that could interfere with the safe operation of the ship or the safe and secure environment of our guests and crew are prohibited. The following are examples of items that guests are not allowed to bring onboard. These and other similar items will be confiscated upon being found. Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, flammable liquids, explosives, and dangerous chemicals will not be returned.
• Firearms & Ammunition, including realistic replicas.
• *Sharp Objects, including knives and scissors.
• Illegal Drugs & Substances
• Candles & Incense
• Coffee Makers, Clothes Irons, & Hot Plates
• Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Cricket Bats, Bows & Arrows
• Skateboards & Surfboards
• Martial Arts Gear
• Self-Defense Gear, including handcuffs, pepper spray, night sticks.
• Flammable Liquids and Explosives, including lighter fluid and fireworks.
• HAM Radios
• Dangerous Chemicals, including bleach and paint.
• **Alcoholic Beverages
Note:
*Personal grooming items such as safety razors are allowed. Scissors with blade length less than 4 inches are allowed.
**Two bottles wine per stateroom are allowed on embarkation day, subject to corkage fees.
Cruise Length
| Smart Casual and Above
| Formal
|
4 nights
| 3
| 1
|
5 nights
| 4
| 1
|
6 nights
| 5
| 1
|
7 nights
| 5
| 2
|
8 nights
| 6
| 2
|
9 nights
| 7
| 2
|
10 nights
| 8
| 2
|
11 nights
| 9
| 2
|
12 nights
| 9
| 3
|
13 nights
| 10
| 3
|
14 nights
| 11
| 3
|
15 nights
| 12
| 3
|
Evening Attire
Evenings aboard Celebrity include two types of dress: "Smart Casual and Above" and "Formal."
Examples of "Smart Casual and Above" attire include:
Smart Casual and Above
Ladies: Skirt or trousers (no holes, rips or tears) complemented by sweater or blouse.
Gentlemen: Trousers (no holes, rips or tears) with sports shirt or sweater. Shirts must have sleeves.
Formal
Ladies: Cocktail dress, gown or dressy trouser suit
Gentlemen: Tuxedo, suit or dinner jacket with trousers
Note: T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurant at any time. Shorts and flip flops are not allowed in the evening hours. As a courtesy to our guests, we respectfully require and enforce compliance with the dress code at the entrance of your restaurant of choice. We thank you, in advance, for your cooperation and understanding. Additionally, guests are asked to follow the "Smart Casual and Above" dress code in the Celebrity Theater for all evening performances.
The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the appropriate attire each evening. A casual dress code applies at all times onboard Celebrity Xpedition.
What is the pregnancy policy?
Celebrity Cruises welcomes pregnant guests but will not accept guests who enter their 24th week of pregnancy by the beginning of, or at any time during their cruise holiday. A doctors letter is required prior to sailing, stating how far along (in weeks) your pregnancy will be at the beginning of the cruise and confirming that you are in good health and not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy. The letter should be faxed to our Guest Support Unit on 01932 820603.
Can I call Room Service?
Yes. It is available 24 hours a day (except on Celebrity Xpedition ships) whether you want an extra blanket or a midnight snack. On all ships except Celebrity Xpedition ships, you may also order room service on the Interactive TV in your stateroom (Interactive TV is not available on Celebrity Xpedition ships). Room service is complimentary, although you may wish to offer a gratuity to room service staff.
What is a “muster drill”?
A muster drill is a mandatory exercise with the objective to familiarise all guests and crew with the location (muster station) where they are to assemble in the unlikely event of an emergency. During this drill, additional safety information (i.e., how to don a life jacket) is presented.
What is the timing of the muster drill for guests?
The International Convention of Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulatory guidelines require that a muster drill be held within 24 hours of a ship’s departure from its embarkation port. The muster drill for guests on all ships across our fleet is to be held 30 to 60 minutes prior to departure on the day of turnaround, or embarkation.
What languages are the muster drills conducted in?
Announcements for the guest assembly drill are made in English, or the official language of the vessel. The announcements are made in additional core languages when we have large numbers of guests onboard who do not speak English. On some sailings, announcements may be made in the language of the market, then followed by English and any other approved core language(s).
Should passengers wear their lifejackets when participating in a muster drill?
Guests should not bring life jackets to the muster drill. Our procedures direct guests to proceed directly to their muster stations in the unlikely event of an emergency and upon hearing the emergency signal. This reduces the chance for cross-traffic and improves response time at muster stations, as guests do not need to return to their staterooms to retrieve their lifejackets if they are in another part of the ship at the time. Crew members will provide guests with life jackets at the muster stations. In the unlikely event of an emergency, one of the most important aspects is to account for all persons onboard, and this process facilitates that accountability.
Who regulates the cruise industry?
The cruise industry is a heavily regulated industry, and the safety of our guests and crew is always our highest priority.
• All cruise ships are designed and operated in compliance with the strict requirements of the International Maritime Organisation, the UN agency that mandates global standards for the safety and operation of cruise ships through adoption of treaties, regulations and resolutions, codified in the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention.
• Safety-related regulations and requirements are rigorous – and we often go substantially above and beyond what is required; for example, carrying backup mechanical, navigational and safety provisions.
• Our ships’ crews undertake extensive training, certification, drills and scenarios in preparation for the very unlikely event of an emergency, including training on ship evacuation procedures.
What training does the crew go through for muster drills and emergency situations?
All of our ships’ officers receive specialised training, and every crew member must participate in safety training modules so they are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in the unlikely event of an emergency. We also conduct weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual drills on all of our ships, to train and prepare for response to a variety of potential situations. In addition, each of our vessels is equipped with advanced fire detection and suppression systems, and every ship has highly trained personnel onboard who can effectively respond to and manage these systems.
How many life saving crafts do the ships carry?
The number of life saving crafts varies on each class of ship. All of our ships have sufficient survival craft for everyone on board, plus additional capacity in reserve, per regulatory requirements.
What are the mustering procedures for kids participating in children’s/youth programs?
The muster procedure, as part of the Youth Evacuation Program, will ensure that children are brought to the muster station where they would be reunited with their parents / guardians. This is also mentioned in the general muster drill announcement.
What are the mustering procedures for passengers with disabilities?
During the mustering process, trained crew with high visibility vests will be posted throughout the ship to assist guests with disabilities. In addition to posted personnel, specially trained crew teams are available to assist guests with special needs.
To get the most enjoyment out of your visit to a port of call, we recommend you select one of our shore excursions, which have been planned by our travel experts and are recommended by the authorities for the particular ports. Alternatively you are free to explore and make your own arrangements at each port of call. Shore excursion details are available online at our website www.celebritycruises.com.
When can I arrange for shore excursions?
Shore and land excursions can be purchased online up to 4 days before your sail date. If you are sailing in less than 4 days, you will need to make your reservations onboard. For Example, if you are sailing on October 18, 2009, you can make Shore and Land Excursion reservations until October 13, 2009. As places are limited we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment.
The staff at the Shore Excursions Desk will be happy to provide you with information and book your excursions. The cost will be charged to your Seapass account. Proof of certification is required for all scuba tours.
On our Celebrity Xpedition cruise to the Galapagos Islands, you will not be allowed to explore on your own in the visitor locations with the exception of the two towns that are visited on Isla San Christianoble and Santa Cruz at Puerto Ayorta. Apart from these two exceptions, your guides will accompany you at all times. Many of the guides are multi-lingual but all tours will be given in English.
What is your onboard smoking policy?
Ship and Stateroom Details
Effective 1 January 2012 for all Celebrity ships, smoking will no longer be permitted inside any stateroom or on any stateroom balcony. Smoking will only be permitted in designated outdoor areas of the ship. Smoking will not be permitted in any dining venue, theatre, hallway, elevator or corridor. Violations to this smoking policy will result in a $250 cleaning fee being charged to the guest's onboard account and may also be addressed through Celebrity Cruises' Guest Conduct Policy. Cigarettes, cigars and pipe tobacco must be properly disposed of and never thrown overboard. A guest must be at least 18 years of age to purchase, possess or use tobacco onboard.
The transfer arrangements vary at each port of call. In some ports of call, there is a complimentary shuttle available. In other ports of call, a tender will be provided, therefore there is no need for a shuttle service. In some ports, of call, a shuttle can be provided for a charge. For a list of all transfer arrangements, this information will be provided onboard the ships.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Please contact your G.P. for advice and the most up-to-date health requirements for all destinations featured in this brochure at least 8 weeks prior to travel. Information on health is also contained in the Department of Health leaflet T6 (Health Advice for Travellers) available from your local Department of Health Office and most Post Offices. Further travel advisce can be found on www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk and www.nathnac.org. For European holidays, from 1 January 2006 you will need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive healthcare that becomes necessary during your visit to an EEA country or Switzerland free or at a reduced cost and you should obtain one prior to departure. All E111 forms ceased to be valid on 31 December 2005. You can obtain an EHIC card online at www.dh.gov.uk , by calling the EHIC Applications Line on 0845 606 2030 or by post - pick up an EHIC application pack from your local Post Office branch. Cards should be delivered within 21 days. Please note – limitations on the use of the EHIC card apply.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office provides up-to-date travel information to help British travellers make informed decisions about travelling abroad. Please ensure that you visit www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo prior to your departure.
How can I find out about Visa information?
Please note that there may be a visa requirement for your cruise and It is the responsibility of each guest to ensure that when they arrive at the pier to board their ship, that they are in possession of all travel documents required for their itinerary. Guests who do not possess the proper documentation may be prevented from boarding their flight or ship or from entering a country.
We strongly advise that you contact our recommended visa agent, VisaCentral, for the most up to date advice and to purchase any visas required for your cruise. Visa Central are part of the CIBT global group of visa companies.
Their online service contains up-to-the-minute information on specific visa requirements for all nationalities to all destinations, and handles over a million possible visa requirements. Travellers do not have the expense of travelling to an embassy or the hassle of standing in a queue. To make sure you know about the visa requirements for your destination, please use the VisaCentral link below:
uk.visacentral.com/celebritycruises
You can also call the information line to speak to a visa consultant: 09065 500 740† VisaCentral are pleased to offer a special discount of 10% to Royal Caribbean International guests when booking online.
†To speak with a visa consultant, calls will cost £1 per minute from a UK landline. Calls from mobile networks and other providers may vary.
Visa Information
The below is correct at time of writing and pertains to UK and Republic of Ireland (ROI) passport holders and should be used for guidance only. Details should be checked with VisaCentral, especially if you hold a passport from another country. Please note, some UK passports issued in the Isle of Man or the Bailiwick of Guernsey, do not have the same visa exceptions as a full UK passport and guests holding either of these passports should check this with VisaCentral.
United States
For entry requirements if you will visit the United States at any point in your cruise holiday, please click here:
www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/travel-advice-by-country/north-central-america/united-states
To enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program, you will need to obtain an ESTA authorisation first. For full details, please click the below link or the ESTA link below:
https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Please note, you will also require an ESTA if you are visiting Puerto Rico (San Juan) or the U.S. Virgin Islands.
India
UK and ROI passport holders require a visa to enter India. Currently Immigration in India is not allowing any group visas onboard or exceptions to this requirement and if you do not possess the correct visa for India you may be denied boarding so we strongly advise you to obtain an Indian visa. Please ensure you give full details of your cruise itinerary as this will determine the type of visa required.
A cruise guest requires a Tourist Visa and when applying you are required to complete an application form. You may be asked to supply a sponsor in India for your trip and your address in India. Please note, this information is not required and you should fill out 'self sponsored' and 'NA' in these 2 sections. Your passport must have a minimum validity of 190 days from after the date of your visit to India and contain at least 2 blank pages. The length of validity for your visa starts from the date it is issued, so please bear this in mind when considering how far in advance of your cruise you wish to apply for the visa.
Further details can be found here:
in.vfsglobal.co.uk (UK) or www.indianembassy.ie (ROI)
San Juan (Puerto Rico)
If a guest is going to board a cruise in San Juan and they fly direct without transit through a US airport and the cruise itinerary does not call at a US port, they will still need to complete an ESTA to gain entry under the Visa Waiver Program to San Juan as it comes under the US visa requirements.
China
Full UK passport holders do not need a visa for the port call at Sanya.
Irish (ROI) guests will need a visa for Sanya.
UK & ROI passport holders do not need a visa for Hong Kong.
Any other port of call in China will require a visa and then you need either the single or double entry type, depending on how many times you enter China on the itinerary including embarkation/debark at a Chinese port, and most importantly whether or not calls to Chinese ports are separated by a call to another country. Please note, the visa ruling about leaving China within 48 hours is only for air travel and does not apply to cruises. It is imperative that you provide the full details of your itinerary when applying for a visa and that you ensure they know you are on a cruise.
Taiwan
(This is the Republic of China, do NOT confuse with the People's Republic of China (Shanghai, Sanya, Beijing, Tianjin, Xiamen, Hong Kong etc)
Full UK or ROI passport holders do not require a visa to visit on a cruise ship calling at the following ports
Keelung Harbour, Hualien Harbour, Taichung Harbour, Shuitou, Fuao and Kaohsiung Harbour only.
Passport MUST have 6 months validity from date of entry to Taiwan. For details visit:
www.roc-taiwan.org
Vietnam & Cambodia
Visa provided onboard by Celebrity Cruises for a charge of no more than 50 USD per visa per guest.
Bahrain
Guests will be able to secure visa onboard the vessel. Please note this service is not available to citizens of Croatia, Syria and Pakistan.
Croatia
Many nationalities, including UK and ROI citizens, do not require a visa to travel to Croatia for a stay less than 3 months. Passengers holding Schengen visas or EU resident cards will be allowed to go ashore and a visa will not be required.
Egypt
Most guests are provided with a Quick Trip Visa onboard the vessel which is valid for 72 hours and allows entry to Egypt. If your itinerary has multiple ports of call in Egypt, you will get a visa at each port. This service is available to citizens of the UK and Republic of Ireland.
Please note this service is not available to Israeli citizens.
Jordan
Guests will be able to secure visa onboard the vessel.
Oman
A group visa will be issued onboard upon submission of the guest manifest. Guests are not required to do anything to be included in the group visa. For stays over 24 hours, there will be a visa charge of approx. $15 per guest. Please note this service is not available to Israeli citizens.
Papua New Guinea
Guests will be able to secure visa onboard the vessel for a one-time fee of less than $50/pp which will be charged to their onboard account.
Turkey
Intransit cruise guests do not require a visa for Turkey. Guests flying into Turkey to embark a vessel may obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport. UK guests disembarking in Turkey will be able to secure a visa onboard the vessel at a fee of less than $50 per guest.
Ukraine
Intransit cruise guests do not require a visa for Ukraine. Nationalities, including UK and ROI, don't require a visa to enter Ukraine for a stay less than 3 months.
Australia
UK and ROI citizens must apply for either an eVisitor document or an ETA, please see the below website or click on the link for Australian ETA below:
www.immi.gov.au/e_visa/visitors.htm
Russia
Guests participating in a Celebrity Cruises shore excursion and/or private car/van arrangements will be covered by our group visa for the duration of the shore excursion.
Guests who wish to sightsee independently or sightsee outsideCelebrity Cruises' shore excursion hours MUST obtain an individual Russian Tourist Visa before leaving home. Russian Tourist Visas cannot be issued during your cruise. Guests who have not purchased a shipboard organised shore excursion and do not possess a valid Russian Tourist Visa will not be permitted ashore in St. Petersburg.
Guests with an Individual Tourist Visa must present (a) a valid passport (b) Russian Tourist Visa (c) one photocopy of passport page showing guest picture and personal information and (d) a confirmation letter or voucher from your Russian tour company sponsoring your Russian Tourist Visa to the Russian Immigration Officer as you depart the ship.
Vladivostok (Russia)
Guest's taking part in aCelebrity Cruisesshore excursion are covered by our group visa (as with St Petersburg) only for the duration of the tour within this city. Those wishing to do independent sightseeing must arrange a visa themselves, either with the Russian Embassy or with an Authorised Russian Tour operator.
Russian Tourist Visa Sponsorship
Should you wish to obtain an individual Russian Tourist Visa, you will need to be sponsored by a licensed Russian Tour Company. This company will have to create a programme and provide a voucher to the guests confirming all the arrangements, along with a reference letter which includes a visa reference number. Once a visa has been issued, it needs to reference the same Russian tour provider as the voucher confirmation. A Russia Tourist Visa will not be accepted by the Russian Immigration official as valid without a confirmation voucher for pre-arranged services.
Guests should consider the following when selecting a tour provider in St. Petersburg or Vladivostok:
1. The tour provider needs to be licensed to operate in Russia and authorised to provide services to foreign visitors.
2. The tour provider must be authorised to issue Russian visa reference numbers.
3. The tour provider should be authorised and have a permit to meet the guest inside the Port of St. Petersburg. If the tour provider is not authorised to enter the port area, you will be advised to meet them at the port entrance, which is located approximately 3 miles from the ship.
The Russian Tourist Visa issued and stamped on your passport will only apply to the referenced tour company, the person named on the visa and for a specific travel date. The sponsor of each tourist visa is legally required to be the provider of services for the guest named on the visa and will have their licence revoked if a visa holder is found ashore without a pre-arranged activity.
The above requirements are subject to revision at any time without prior notification to the cruise line. Once onboard the ship, adjustment to the current regulations will be provided as we receive them from the Russian officials. Please also be aware that these regulations can also be at the discretion of the individual officers on duty on the day of arrival and may vary at any time.
Please note for all the above the information is correct at time of writing, but is subject to change at any time. UK passport info applies to British Citizens, holders of another UK passport must check with the relevant authority. There is often a stipulation on having a minimum amount of validity left on your passport and a number of clear pages in order to gain entry, which can be up to a 6 month requirement. Again, please check with the relevant authority.
Please also note that if there is requirement to obtain a visa prior to travel for a particular country, and a guest chooses to not disembark the ship, then the guest is still required to obtain the necessary visa. The only exception to this rule is Russia where a guest is able to stay on the ship in St Petersburg and not need to obtain a visa.
You must ensure that all guest's names (including initials) are exactly the same as they appear on their ticket as in their passport. If there is any difference, you may be refused entry onto your flight/cruise.
Passport and visa requirements may change and vary by destination. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any flight or into any country, or otherwise suffer any difficulties or incur any costs as a result of not having the correct passport and/or any required visa(s).
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. You must pay all costs incurred in obtaining such documentation. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.
Certain Port Authorities may from time to time ask to see photo identification when you depart the ship during the cruise. We strongly suggest that you take a photocopy of your passport information page with you in addition to your passport itself and that you carry the photocopy with you each time you depart the ship in order to minimise any inconvenience this may cause and to provide an official means of identification whilst ashore in case it is required.
Our cruises encompass a variety of continents and destinations and therefore the weather in each region will vary. Some of the destinations visited are tropical and may experience heavy rainfall or strong winds at certain times of the year. Celebrity cannot accept liability for adverse weather conditions during your cruise holiday.