If you want to change your cabin but not pay the current selling price or the cabin level is sold out, Celebrity has a bidding process called MoveUp. This new program allows you to bid on a cruise stateroom upgrade after you purchase your cruise.* *Eligible reservations are on all Celebrity Cruise ships within 90 days of departure date. Cruise must be paid in full and you must be 21 years or older. When entering your information in the link below, make sure to use the primary guest last name and valid booking number to avoid errors. If you have any questions or trouble finding your reservation, either call Celebrity at 1-888-751-7804 or use the online chat feature. If using a travel agent, the travel agency must be a participating agency in the CELEBRITY MOVEUP program in order to qualify. Use this link: https://www.celebritycruises.com/bid-on-cruise-room-upgrade Look through the stateroom options to see which cabin type you want to bid on. Submit an offer based on the amount you’re willing to pay for an upgrade for each stateroom option. There will be minimum and maximum amounts allowed. Making offers on multiple rooms will increase your chances of getting upgraded, but you’ll only ever pay for one upgrade. You will be notified via email if your request for an upgrade has been approved. If your offer is accepted, you will automatically be charged for the upgrade. If not, you pay nothing and enjoy the stateroom you’ve already booked. Offers are priced per person, based on double occupancy, for the length of your cruise. The amount is not per night. Only the first and second guest in your stateroom will be charged. Additional guests beyond the second guest are upgraded with no additional cost. Frequently Asked Questions Is the offer amount per person per day or for the entire duration of the cruise? The offer amount is per person for the entire duration of the cruise. Offers are based on two occupants per stateroom – only the first and second guest will be charged. Does the upgrade include any additional promotions? The upgrade does not include any additional promotions. You get to keep whichever promotions you already have. Example, if you are in an inside/veranda/oceanview etc cabin and booked all inclusive, you will keep those benefits. Suites and Aqua class bids do not receive the additional beverage packages, OBC or wifi. Successful Suite bids do receive access to the Retreat and Luminae. Aqua class receives access to the Persian Garden and Blu. What happens if I am part of a group or traveling with another reservation? Each offer is considered individually, Celebrity Cruises does guarantee that all reservations traveling together will be upgraded. If you are lucky and all reservations are upgraded, Celebrity Cruises cannot guarantee that all the upgraded cabins will be close together. Can I reject the upgrade after it is accepted? No, once your bid is accepted, your card will be charged immediately and the upgrade amount paid is final and non-refundable. There are no refunds or downgrades. What happens with the promotions I already have? You get to keep the promotions you already have. However, no additional promotions will be added to your reservation. Can I choose the location or specific features of the upgrade cabin? No, your cabin location and attributes will depend on availability. Celebrity cannot guarantee a specific cabin number assignment within the upgraded category. If other cabins are available in the exact same category, you can ask to be moved. They cannot guarantee the ability to do that. How much do I pay if my reservation includes more than 2 guests? If your reservation includes multiple guests (between 2 and 5 passengers), the offer amount submitted will be for the first and second guest on the reservation only. Other passengers are upgraded free of charge. Can I modify or cancel my offer after I submit it? You may modify or cancel your offer up until 2 days prior to departure, provided that your offer has not already been accepted by Celebrity Cruises and your credit card has not been charged. When will I know if my offer got accepted? Your offer can be accepted anytime from the moment it is submitted up until 2 days prior to voyage departure. If I have two reservations can I bid only once and if accepted, cancel the second reservation and move the guests into the upgraded cabin? No, if you have two cabins you will need to submit two separate bids and they will be considered independently. Celebrity Cruises cannot guarantee that both reservations will be upgraded. In the case that one of the reservations gets upgraded, you cannot move the other guests into the upgraded cabin. All reservations cancelled within the penalty period will be subject to cancellation fees. What happens if I am a single guest? You will be charged based on double occupancy. Why did I or someone I’m traveling with not receive an invite to bid on a stateroom upgrade? To receive an email invitation to bid on a stateroom upgrade, you must have opted-in to Celebrity Marketing e-mails. To opt-in, you can sign up for emails on the website, opt-in through the online check in process or within My Reservations section of website. There is also a link in the pull-down menu at the top of the Celebrity website under “Manage My Reservation”. If I upgrade to a higher category stateroom, will I have to pay a gratuity amount based on the new upgraded category? Yes, by upgrading to a higher stateroom category, each guest in the booking may be subject to a higher gratuity amount. The Offer Amount does not include the higher gratuity. If the Offer is accepted, the difference between the originl and upgraded stateroom gratuities (if applicable) will be automatically applied to all guests. $18.00 USD per person, per day for Inside, Ocean View, and Veranda staterooms $18.50 USD per person, per day for Concierge Class and AquaClass staterooms ContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Cruises Move-Up Program”
Tag Archives: #cruising
Essential Laundry Tips for Your Cruise
The age old question…..what do I pack for my cruise? No one wants to be seen wearing the same clothes over and over! Yet, we are limited by weight and number of bags while traveling, especially if flying to the cruise port. Sure it would be fun to have your entire wardrobe with you, but that just isn’t feasible. Remaining clean and presentable can be a real problem, especially if you have young children or plan to be gone for a long time The cost of washing, drying and dry cleaning can quickly add up! You don’t want to spend money on laundry and take away from other more enjoyable activities. Fortunately, many cruise ships provide a range of laundry services designed to make your voyage easy. Many ships offer paid for laundry service…usually laundry is returned within 24 hours. If you prefer to do your own laundry, some lines offer self-service laundry rooms that include laundry detergent. Although convenience is important to many travelers, some passengers still prefer to do it themselves especially if they have delicate items or clothing that won’t do well in the industrial machines onboard. Laundry can be a necessity, especially on longer journeys. Spills happen and it won’t take long to get sweaty at a tropical port. Salt, sauce, ice cream….they all find their way onto your clothing. Here are a few cruise lines that offer the convenience of self serve laundry facilities. Costs are in American dollars. We found sometimes a quick wash in the bathroom sink is all we need, instead of spending hours waiting for laundry machines. These Tide packets are also useful when staying in hotels. Another option is to take is few laundry sheets, which are easy to pack and use. Celebrity Cruise Line Celebrity does not offer a self-service laundry. Their prices are listed here for individual items. “Stuff the Bag” Service: Celebrity Cruises offers a laundry service where you can fill a provided bag with clothes and have them washed, dried, and folded. Cost: The cost for this service is a fixed price of $49.99 for 12 clothing items or less. Alternative Packages: You can also pre-purchase laundry packages, such as a “Back Home Laundry Bag” (3 bags) or individual laundry wash & fold/press options. Prices will be available in your cruise planner. Pre-Cruise Purchase: You can often find discounts on laundry packages if you purchase them before your cruise. Turnaround Time: The turnaround time for the laundry service is generally quick, with some cruisers reporting receiving their laundry within 24 hours. What to Wash: Cruisers often use the service for items like underwear, socks, and jeans, but you can send any washable items. Holland America Cruise Line On Holland America cruises, you can pay for laundry by the bag (around $30-$35), or opt for unlimited laundry and pressing for a set price per cruise length (e.g., $63 for a 7-day cruise). Here’s a more detailed breakdown of Holland America laundry options: Laundry by the Bag: You can send your clothes in a blue Holland America laundry bag for a fee, typically around $30-$35 per bag. These bags are roughly the size of a pillowcase, so you’ll need to pack clothes tightly. Allow 48 hours for laundry service. Unlimited Laundry and Pressing: 7-day cruise: $63 14-day cruise: $126 Unlimited Pressing: 7-day cruise: $35 14-day cruise: $70 This fee covers everyone in your stateroom, not per person. Other Considerations: Dry cleaning is available but not included in the laundry packages and is charged separately. Qualifying Mariners in the Holland America Mariner Society may receive complimentary normal laundry and pressing service, but dry cleaning and express service are not complimentary. Carnival Cruise Lines Most ships offer self-service launderettes. They are located on staterooms decks. There are 2 or 3 washers, 2 or 3 dryers, and 1 iron and ironing board in each launderette. The cost is $3.50 USD per washer load and $3.50 USD per dryer load. For your convenience, if you have not packed your own, each launderette has a vending machine that dispenses small boxes of detergent and water softener at $2.00 USD per box. On most ships, the machines are operated using your Sail & Sign card for payment. On the following ships, only coins are accepted to operate the machine; change can be obtained at the Guest Service Desk, if needed: Carnival Elation and Carnival Paradise. Carnival Celebration, Carnival Jubilee and Mardi Gras do not have washers and dryers but have ironing rooms on several stateroom decks as well as Valet Laundry service. Carnival Firenze, Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Venezia do not have washers, dryers nor ironing rooms but do offer Valet Laundry service. Disney Cruise Line You will find 24-hour, self-service Guest laundry facilities equipped with washers and dryers, along with detergent and complimentary ironing equipment. No coins are needed―pay using your Key to the World card. Each launderette has a kiosk where you can buy electronic tokens that can be used for the washer and dryer or to buy detergent and softener. Tokens for wash and dry are $3.00 each. The detergent and softener are $1.00 per token. The detergent is Tide, and the softener is Snuggle. The tokens are attached to your Key to the World Card. When purchasing, you can let others in your cabin access the tokens for use. To purchase the tokens, you just tap your Key to the World Card, select the tokens you wish to purchase and confirm the purchase. For safety reasons, the irons may be used only in the laundry room. Personal irons are prohibited and cannot be brought aboard. Princess Cruises All Princess Cruise ships have self-service laundry facilities. Self-serve is $3 to wash, $3 to dry, $1.50 ea for detergent, Oxy bleach powder or dryer sheets. You buy tokens in the laundry room with your Medallion and they are charged to your shipboard account. A few of the newer ships haven’t had the acceptors installed for tokens so the machines are in free run mode, including Discovery Princess. American Cruise Lines All of American Cruise Lines’ new ships (and most of the fleet) have self-serviceContinueContinue reading “Essential Laundry Tips for Your Cruise”
Discovering Southampton: Must-See Attractions and Activities Before Your Cruise
How do I get from London to Southampton cruise port? The Southampton cruise port is 80 miles southwest of London. Traveling by car, taxi or direct coach will take about 2 hours, depending on traffic. Heavy traffic at rush hour around London can increase your travel time.Most cruise lines offer direct transfers which you can book through your cruise line. These can be by van, mini bus or coach busses. Check with your cruise line to see what they offer. The available options will be included in the excursion section of your cruise planner. We recently used a transfer with Celebrity Cruises which took us to Stonehenge and then dropped us off at Heathrow. Easy and enjoyable end to our cruise. If you wish to hire a private car or taxi, GetTransfer is reliable and has good prices. Another option is Welcome Pickups. You can arrange for airport or port pickups and sightseeing tours. South Western Railway trains regularly run to Southampton direct from Waterloo and Victoria stations. You can also depart from Paddington Station with a change of trains in Reading. Most trains take about 1.5-2.5 hours depending on stops to reach Southampton Central. Once you arrive, you will need a taxi to transfer you the last 2 miles from the railway station to the cruise port. There will be taxis waiting outside the station. You can purchase one-way or roundtrip train tickets or Britrail passes from Rail Europe The cheapest way to get to Southampton is with National Express bus services. They run scheduled coach services to Southampton from London (Waterloo Station), Heathrow, Gatwick and most major cities. Again, you will need to make your own way to the cruise port from the bus station (about 1.6 miles) where the coach journey terminates. I NEED A HOTEL….WHERE SHOULD I STAY? Enjoy an stress-free start to your cruise holiday by staying in one of the excellent hotels near the port. If you are traveling with your own car to Southampton, try to select a hotel that offers cruise parking…some will also offer a shuttle service to the port. Look for options to book a Cruise & Park package when looking for hotels. There are many excellent hotels available. The closest to the port are Holiday Inn and Leonardo Royal Hotel. Another excellent choice is you are looking for a luxury hotel is Harbour Hotel Southampton. We have stayed at the Doubletree by Hilton in Chilworth in the past and taken a taxi to the ship, but in the future, we are going to stay closer to the terminal and the city itself. WHAT IS THERE TO DO? Southampton is a bustling coastal city with history going back all the way to the Stone Age. There are over 90 listed buildings and 30 ancient monuments in the Old Town, which includes medieval watch towers and dungeons, an array of churches, fine timber-framed Tudor houses, inns and hole-in-the-wall pubs. The city sustained extensive damage in the Second World War but it has managed to retain some of its medieval architecture. Exploring this charming corner of the city is one of the best things to do in Southampton. A great place to start this journey is the Bargate….formerly the main gate of the city. This is possibly Southampton’s most iconic structure and was built around 1180. Walking some of England’s best-preserved medieval Town Wall, nearly half of which still stands since the 15th century, is a must for any guest of Southampton. The Old Town Walls are recognized as some of the country’s most intact and impressive. These walls first enclosed the town following a raid by the French in 1380. Today, about half of the original walls still remain. The city has developed a self-guided walk for those who want to work their way through the history of the listed buildings and ancient monuments. How it works: Download the app “GPSmyCity: Walks in 1K+ Cities” from iTunes App Store or Google Play Store to your mobile phone or tablet. The app turns your mobile device into a personal tour guide and its built-in GPS navigation functions guide you from one tour stop to next. The app works offline, so no data plan is needed if you are traveling abroad. Just be sure to download the app while you have wifi. Visit the Tudor House and Gardens. This is Southampton’s most important historic building, reveling over 800 years of history in one fascinating location at the heart of the Old Town. The timber-framed building facing St Michael’s Square was built in the late 15th Century, with King John’s Palace, an adjacent Norman house accessible from Tudor House Garden, dating back a further 300 years. Tudor House gives a unique insight into the lives and times of both its residents through the years, and of Southampton itself. This is perfect for all ages and interests and is a family-friendly activity. https://tudorhouseandgarden.com Visit the Medieval Merchant’s House Around the corner at 58 French Street, is the Medieval Merchant’s House, another of Southampton’s cultural treasures tucked beneath the old walls. Complete with replica period furnishings, this is another fascinating view into Southampton’s medieval world. This building is part of the English Heritage group, so if you are a member, admission is free. https://www.english-heritage.org.uk Explore Southampton’s aviation history. Southampton also has many ties to aviation, particularly during the era of the seaplane. If you enjoy airplanes and aviation, a visit to the Solent Air Museum this is an excellent choice. Here you will the opportunity to get up close to over 20 beautifully preserved planes, including a de Havilland Vampire fighter jet and the famous Spitfire. The latter was produced by the Southampton-based aviation manufacturer, Supermarine, which was also renowned for its success in the high-risk 20th-century seaplane race, the Schneider Trophy. Much of the museum is dedicated to this extraordinary race that helped generate engineering advancements that bore fruit for fighter jet design during the Second World War. Many of the Spitfire planes were made underground nearby in theContinueContinue reading “Discovering Southampton: Must-See Attractions and Activities Before Your Cruise”
Cruising with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities & Preparations
Cruising with your kids is an easy and fun way to explore the world. Many new ships are like floating resorts with endless options to keep all ages entertained. Your family is transported from port to port and you only have to unpack once! And no dragging suitcases from hotel to hotel! However, without proper planning and preparation, a cruise can go very wrong. Learn how to plan a family cruise and which cruise line is best for your family with these tips for taking a cruise with kids that Research your cruise options thoroughly before booking your vacation. Weigh the pros and cons of each cruise line including childcare options, family activities, meal options, stateroom size and layout, and, of course, price. When choosing an itinerary, consider the number of at-sea days, the ports of call, and shore excursions.will help ensure smooth sailing. RESEARCH, RESEARCH, THEN RESEARCH AGAIN! Read about your cruise options thoroughly before booking your vacation. There are lots of Facebook groups for every cruise line. Cruisers love to help other passengers….ask all your questions! Weigh the pros and cons of each cruise line…childcare options, family activities, meal options, stateroom size and layout and price. When choosing an itinerary, consider the number of sea days, the ports of call and shore excursions. If you are traveling with very young children, some cruise lines limit the number of consecutive sea days you can do. Amenities for children vary among cruise lines. Most kids clubs vary in terms of age requirements and will group the kids into appropriate age groups. Be sure to check if there are restrictions for non-potty trained children. Many do not allow them to be left unattended by parents until fully trained. Also, non-potty trained children may not swim in cruise ship pools but some, such as Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard, and Royal Caribbean, offer splash areas on select ships with special filtration for diapered tots. Sail away on a cruise with kids (Photo credit: Matt Stroshane, Disney) Consult a travel agent This is one time a good travel agent is essential. Make sure you use one that specializes in cruises. They can make the entire process seamless and will have a greater knowledge of individual ships and cabins. An agent may also have access to better deals or group rates and may be able to give you onboard credit or other special amenities for your family. Make sure your travel agent is knowledgeable about cruises and books them often! Cruising is different from other vacations. The agent can assist in the online registration and make certain that all of the paperwork is completed and print out your luggage tags. An agent is also there to help you should anything go wrong before, during or after your cruise. There is no additional charge, their commission comes directly from the cruise line! For more information regarding embarkation, be sure to read https://zest4travel.net/2023/04/12/cruise-embarkation-day/ Involve the entire family in planning your cruise. Kids, especially the older ones, want to be part of choosing where your family will cruise, what they want available onboard and which excursions they want to do. Including and considering some of their wishes will make the cruise a better experience for everyone. Get age appropriate books about your destination. Watch movies or youtube videos. Build the excitement! Check cruise message boards or Facebook groups Cruise Critics has been around for a long time and offers roll calls for every sailing. Facebook groups are now becoming even more popular though. Do a search for your sailing to see if one has been started. Also, join the Facebook page for the cruise line and/or ship you are sailing on. Here, you can ask questions and meet other passengers. Many times, group meet ups are already organzied! Arrive at least one day before you set sail If at all possible, don’t fly in the same day as the cruise begins. Flights can be delayed or cancelled, luggage can go missing, etc. There is no need to add extra stress when traveling with kids An extra night or two prior to boarding will help you adjust to a new time zone and allow the kids to destress from long flights and busy travel days. This is especially helpful if traveling overseas. Avoid motion sickness and other illnesses Cabins that are on lower decks and/or mid-ship generally experience less motion and will help reduce the likelihood of developing seasickness. Before leaving home, consider discussing motion sickness prevention options with your doctor. Even if your family is not prone to nausea while traveling, it might be smart to bring along some seasick medicine or other remedy, just in case. Washing your hands often and using antibacterial gel or baby wipes to cleanse hands can help keep your family healthy while cruising. A first aid kit is also an excellent item to pack for your cruise! Discuss expectations before cruising with kids Discuss rules about safety and guidelines regarding onboard behavior with your children prior to sailing. If you are traveling with older kids, set clear rules and boundries regarding the level of freedom they will have during the cruise and family time expectations. For example, if you would like all family members to eat dinner together every evening, make this clear prior to boarding. Now is the time to talk to the kids about the danger of climbing on any railings. People do fall off cruise ships….you don’t want this to happen to your family. Also, remind them that there are other passengers on the ship and they need to respect the rules and others. Things like running and/or yelling in the hallways, loud music in the cabin, blocking stairwells, etc are not acceptable behavior. Pack properly for your family cruise Once you have boarded the ship, it could be several hours before your luggage is delivered to your cabin. Be sure to pack a carry-on bag with anything you might need that first day, such as identification and passports (needed for embarkation), cruise documents, swimsuits, and sunscreen. You don’t need to worry about snacks, as the buffet willContinueContinue reading “Cruising with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities & Preparations”
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips
Sailing the fjords of Norway is amazing. The scenery is stunning and there are many excellent excursions. But….“WHAT DO I PACK!”. We have sailed the fjords several times. I use a modified version of my What To Pack For Alaska list. This list also works well for Iceland cruises. First off remember….it’s not the middle of winter! Just because you are heading to the great northern region of Norway, that does not mean it will be snowing and cold. Sure, it could rain and/or be windy (and therefore be a tad chilly) and you may get chilled while sailing into the fjords. BUT….once the ship stops, if the sun is shining, it can be very warm. If you are sailing in May or September, be prepared for cooler temperatures. Later in the summer, it can be warm and humid. The most useful suggestion I have is layers, layers, layers! Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket….heavy down coats are NOT required! Neither are UGGS! Seriously, light weight layers is the answer. The dress code onboard is generally “smart casual” during the day and most evenings, with optional “Evening Chic” nights where guests can dress up a bit more, though formal wear is not required. Ultimate Guide to Celebrity Cruise Dress Code Here are the items that have worked for me. Norway Fjords Packing List: 2 pairs jeans or other long pants (in case one gets wet) Leggings are very popular and are perfect for travel. Fleece lined and water resistant are a great option if you are sailing early in the season or later…or if you easily get cold. I recently sailed Norway in late May and was fine wearing regular leggings. 3-4 shirts to wear with jeans/pants/leggings. one or two pairs casual pants to wear onboard 1 nice outfit for formal/dress up nights 1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them – choose colors that work well together to create more outfits (think capsule wardrobe). 1 or 2 hooded sweatshirts – pullover or zip up 1 waterproof jacket or warm vest… or poncho. This jacket is waterproof, lightweight and good for hiking and travel. It keeps you dry when you need it and packs down small. I have worn a vest under a rain coat for additional warmth. A waterproof poncho would also be very useful. This one folds up into a small packet, is lightweight, has a front zipper and pockets and is available in several colors! A good travel size umbrella can also be very useful. scarf, hat and gloves (for sailing into the fjords) 1 or 2 pair dress shoes/sandals 1 pair sandals for pool deck swimsuit and coverup (Many are probably thinking…seriously? a bathing suit? Yes! The ship’s pools will be open and the hot tubs will be running….enjoy them!) 2 pair good walking shoes I recently purchased these trail inspired slip-ins by Skechers for our active travels. Men and women styles. I use this waterproof spray on my shoes. Hint…wet shoes can be smelly. I use these to remove odors, you get enough for 3 pairs of shoes. They also work really well in your suitcase to remove odors and keep the it smelling fresh. It’s also smart to protect your clothes from dirty shoes with shoe bags. Good sunglasses – the glare off the deck will be very strong. You will definitely want some good binoculars while cruising the fjords. Most ships provide some in your cabin but the quality is usually not very good. We bring a good travel size with us. Just discovered these amazing mosquito/bug repellent patches…so much nicer than using bug spray! Socks and underwear (duh) Workout clothes – if you plan to hit the gym When going ashore, it is nice to have a good bag. I like to use a crossbody bag, Protect your valuables from pickpockets and thieves. This bag is also RFID protected. Sunscreen (glare off boat can be strong) A travel first-aid kit .is a necessity. Pain killers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandaids…easier (and cheaper) than going to the ship’s doctor. This is a great first aid kit for traveling. Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work. Stonger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Keep the cabin organized! After sailing many times and finally having our luggage go missing due to luggage tags being torn off, we now use cruise line luggage tag holders. Highly recommend. Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. I take reusable grocery bags. Cabins have blackout curtains but light can still sneak through the bottom or sides. In Norway, the sun sets very late and rises super early. An eye mask is very helpful. Are you prone to motion sickness? These sea sick patches will make your cruise more enjoyable! AND….they are Captain Kate approved! These are the exact same ones she uses onboard, while flying and when in the car. I love these adapters by Hero. They have them for several different countries and are made in the US with a 100% money back guarantee and lifetime warranty. The ship will have US and EU outlets but for any hotel you stay in pre or post cruise, you will need one. Most cruise ship cabins have only a few electric plugs. You’re going to need additional outlets to charge electronic items like phones, computers, tablets, kindles, etc. USB ports are also useful. VERY IMPORTANT – Cruise lines don’t allow a regular surge-protected power bars from home (they will confiscate them). I recommend using one that plugs directly into the outlet without a cord. Many ports are confiscating those with cords, as they consider them extension cords. This is the one we travel with. Be sure to bring printed copies of travel documents – while most cruise guests rely on digital versions, it’s always a good idea to carry a printed copy of your itinerary, travel insurance details, and any booking confirmations as a backup. What cruise documentsContinueContinue reading “Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips”
Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children
Taking a cruise with your baby or toddler? Are you wondering what to pack? Packing for a cruise with a baby is a challenge for sure! You will want to pack light, but not too light! If you are lucky enough to get to your cruise ship without flying, you will not have any restrictions on the number of bags you can bring. But do you really want to deal with a lot of extra luggage? Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring the items you need! Remember though, cruise cabins are typically smaller than hotel rooms. If you bring too much, your stateroom will feel very cramped and crowded. Be selective and only bring what you will absolutely use. Below are our recommendations for the top essential travel baby supplies for your next family vacation at sea. This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Protect littles one’s ears while traveling. Some venues onboard can be load. There are sizes for children, babies and toddlers. Heading to a beach destination? A good beach blanket is essential. This one comes with sand anchors and storage pockets too! A good carry on bag is essential. We love to use this one, it has spinner wheels and is easy to maneuver. When boarding the ship, be sure to pack swimsuits, sunscreen, all medicines, valuables and your boarding document including passports in it! If your are flying to the port, it also fits under the seat! Water shoes are an absolute must have item for the entire! Protect everyones feet from rocks, shells, coral, hot sand, etc. Many cruise lines do not have self-service laundry. Kids are messy! Be prepared to do some laundry in your cabin. You can hang a shower curtain from the ceiling using these hooks to create a privacy curtain or use them to hang hats, jackets, blankets extra. Walls and ceilings in ship cabins are magnetic! They are available in lots of fun colors too. This is genius! A refillable roll-on container for sun screen…..why didn’t I think of that? When it comes to strollers, the smaller and lighter the better. If your usual stroller is bulky, you might want to invest in a smaller, more maneuverable umbrella stroller. These take up much less room in your cabin and can also fit under the bed when not in use. Cabin corridors are also narrow and some areas can be crowded. This lightweight stroller weighs just 13 pounds, has four reclining positions, a large seat area and a large storage basket plus anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels Air tags are a must these days. Luggage gets delayed or lost…know where your belongs are! They are also a very good way to find your stroller if it gets moved while traveling….very useful in places like Disney, other amusement parks, malls, etc.! We use a detachable air tag case on the inside of all our luggage. That way we know it won’t get removed or lost. Set your kids up for success on your travel to the ship with this awesome travel tray. It pops up and sits right across their lap, giving them plenty of storage space, a place to draw that won’t damage anything and a handy place to store their tablet for easy viewing. Believe me…you want to use a luggage tag holder on your luggage. After many sailings with torn off or destroyed tags and bags going missing, we finally invested on these and use them every cruise. These are for Celebrity and Royal Caribbean: These are for Carnival: And these work with Princess luggage tags: Excursions are easier when you don’t have to worry about a stroller. This wrap keeps baby close and comfy. Cruise lines have a limited number of pack & plays onboard for passenger use. Ships do not provide padding or sheets. We recommend adding a travel one to your packing list. This way, you know your child has a safe and comfortable place to sleep. A portable white noise sound machine creates a soothing environment for your little one. Your little one is going to need changing at some point! Be prepared with this portable changing pad. It comes with handy storage pockets and is waterproof. Diaper bags have come a long way! Dad won’t mind carrying this leather baby diaper bag backpack and it comes with stroller straps too! Diaper bags can be smelly. These odor eliminators work great….smell really good too. There are several different scents to choose from. Most cruise cabins do not have a bath tub and the sinks are very small. An inflatable tub can be very useful! Can be used pool side for some splash time too! A first aid kit is a 100% necessity! Visits to the ships doctor can be expensive and time consuming. Best to be prepared for the bumps and scrapes that are bound to happen. Of course you will want to buy things in port for your friends, family, little one. Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. We take reusable grocery bags. Feeding time can be an adventure. Sippy cups, travel bottles, snack cups and baby spoons are very helpful! Lightweight bottles Portable bottle warmer Insulated water bottles for babies and toddlers. Baby spoons Of course, you will need diapers and clothes! Bring at least two clothing changes per day plus sleeping wear. Baby swimsuits and hats to protect those eyes are also important! For the dress up nights onboard, bring something fun for your little one to wear! Diapers onboard are expensive. If not driving to the port, stop at a store and stock up prior to boarding! Get some swim diapers too but be sure to check with your cruise line to see if they are allowed in the pool. If not, ask if they haveContinueContinue reading “Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children”
What to Know Before Your Cruise Embarkation
It has finally arrived….Embarkation Day! All the waiting, planning and anticipation is almost over! Before you know it, you will be on board, sipping a tropical drink and waiting for sail away. Woohoo….vacation has begun!! Hold on though…you may be ready to get onboard, but the crew is busy preparing the ship and disembarking the prior passengers. If this is your first cruise, some things may surprise you. Cruises are different from land vacations and hotel stays. You have to go through the a pier-side check-in process, with special requirements. Check out What Cruise Documents Do You Need for the documents you need to board a ship. And remember, there are many passengers waiting to board a floating city at basically the same time. As with any other secured structure, you can’t walk right onto a ship. The best way to start your cruise is to arrive at the pier at your assigned check in time. Keep a level head and look forward to good times once your sailing gets underway. There are a few things you can do to help make embarkation day as easy as possible. Check that you have the necessary paperwork and documentation The cruise line will send reminders about what to expect at check-in, including health and safety procedures. It will outline which documents, IDs, QR codes or other electronic receipts you must have ready. Be sure to do as much as you can online prior to arriving at the pier. It is your responsibility to arrive with the proper documentation. Even though most cruise lines are providing online boarding passes, it might be a good idea to print and bring paper copies of documents as a backup to electronic documents. Or…take a screen shot of them on your phone. Again, visit the link in the section above for what the proper documents are that you need to board, such as passport, birth certificate etc. Arrive at the pier at your scheduled time. Since the restart of cruising post Covid, in an attempt to decrease crowding at the port, most cruise lines are assigning staggered times to arrive at the pier. If you arrive early, you may have to wait to enter the terminal. This may be outside in the hot sun, without access to water, seating or restrooms. It is best to arrive at the pier as close as possible to your scheduled time. No need to worry if you arrive after your scheduled time….you will be welcomed tin o start the check-in process. You will not be turned away. Word of warning though….everyone MUST be onboard 90 minutes prior to sail away. This is a maritime/port requirement, not the cruise line. Give your large luggage to the porters to be loaded onto the ship. When you arrive at the pier, porters will be waiting to take your large suitcases and load them onto the ship. Once they are on the ship, crew members will deliver them to your cabin. Be sure to attach your cruise line proved luggage tags. Don’t worry if you forget to print them or are not able to. The porters have some on hand. These tags inform the crew which cabin to deliver them to. I highly recommend using luggage tag holders like this to attach them to your bag. There are different sizes for each cruise line. Be sure to purchase the correct ones…these are for Celebrity/Royal Caribbean Keep your carry-on bag with you! Pack your medications, valuables, documents, passport and anything else you will need until your luggage arrives in your cabin. You may want to pack your bathing suit so that you don’t have to wait for your suitcases to arrive before you hit the pool! MAKE SURE YOUR PASSPORT/ID IS WITH YOU!!! Be prepared to go through security You will go through security after entering the cruise terminal. The process is similar to an airport. Your carry-on luggage will be screened and you will walk through a metal detector. You won’t have to take off your shoes but you do have to remove belts, bulky jewelry and clear your pockets. You don’t need to worry about liquid, as there is no size limitation. Keep your boarding pass available. You will need this to board the ship. Since many ships are now leaving your sea pass card at your cabin, you will need to scan the boarding pass document when first entering the ship. Do not try to sneak any banned items onto the ship All of your luggage will be scanned electronically. Many cruise lines allow passengers to bring a pre-determined amount of wine, soda and/or bottled water onboard at embarkation. Check your cruise lines FAQ for the amount allowed for your cruise. It is very rare that hard spirits or beer is allowed to be brought onboard. If found, it will either be removed from your luggage and held until disembarkation or destroyed. They know to look in hiding places, such as solid water bottles, mouthwash containers, etc. Be sure to carry allowed beverages onboard with you, not as checked luggage. Check with your cruise line for any corkage fee if opened in a bar, lounge or restaurant. Cruise lines have very specific rules for other banned items. These items include weapons, fireworks, flammable liquids, candles, clothing irons, steamers, kettles, incense and anything that produces a flame. This includes outlet extenders that have a cord. We use the one below to provide more outlets in the cabin. Royal Caribbean also bans martial arts gear, baby monitors and extension cords. Carnival bans handcuffs. You can read more about banned items here: What NOT to Bring Watch the safety video and check in to your muster station. In the past, everyone on a cruise ship was required to gather on embarkation day at their assigned muster station, listen to a safety briefing and be checked off a list. As a result of COVID-19, most cruise lines have moved to e-muster drills. You are required to watchContinueContinue reading “What to Know Before Your Cruise Embarkation”
Cruise Disembarkation Tips: Smooth Sailings for Your Farewell
No one likes to think about it, but it’s going to happen….you have to leave the ship. Disembarkation (or debark) is something cruisers don’t want to think about. It’s a lot more fun to think about things like planning excursions and booking future cruises and NOT think about getting off the ship. But all good things must come to an end and it’s best to be prepared! What to expect Cruise lines are fairly similar in their disembarkation procedures. The last morning of your cruise, you will have to disembark and leave what has become your very comfortable home away from home and all your new friends, passengers and crew alike. Traditional Disembarkation vs Self-Disembarkation There are two types of disembarkation….regular and self, commonly called self-assist or walk-off. The process is basically the same, with the main difference being that with self-disembarkation, you are responsible for taking your luggage off the ship. You must be able to walk your own bags off the ship and through the terminal. If you choose to walk off your bags, make sure they are easy to maneuver and don’t over pack. It’s best to not have a lot of luggage to carry off. What are the Benefits of Self-Disembarkation You can be in the first group to get off the ship. If you need to leave the cruise port to catch an early flight, or have a long drive ahead, this can be a great option. You do not need to put luggage out on the last night of your cruise. The only wait will be for the ship to be cleared by port authorities. What are the Disadvantages of Self-Disembarkation You will not receive any help with your luggage. You may need to carry it down several flights of stairs as elevators may be full. You need to be up very early. Debark will begin as soon as the ship is cleared. This could be as early as 7am. This is only a good option if everyone is able to handle their own luggage. If you need help or have a lot of luggage, this isn’t the best option. Remember, it’s called self-assist for a reason. We have done both and there is no right or wrong way. The choice is yours and you can decide what works best for you once onboard. When time can you expect to leave the ship? There’s no set time when debark will begin and this will vary by cruise port and by things that are beyond the control of the ship and crew. The scheduled docking time listed on your cruise itinerary will NOT be the time that you can leave the ship. This is the time the ship is expected to arrive in port. The ship will still need to be cleared by customs of the country you have arrived in and given permission for passengers to debark. Usually this is a fairly quick process, but sometimes it can take longer…maybe several hours. As a general rule, most cruise ships will start the disembarkation process around 7:30-8 am. An announcement will be made once the ship is cleared and passengers can disembark. Wait for your luggage tag number to be called though. Otherwise, you will be waiting in the terminal for your luggage to arrive. Avoid booking an early flight home You will need time to leave the ship, get your luggage, clear customs and then time to reach the airport. Some ports, like Fort Lauderdale, as close. …a quick 15 taxi ride. Most are not! There will be taxis waiting outside the terminal but there may be a line for them. Most cruise lines recommend not booking flights before noon. And if you are taking an International flight, you may need more time at the airport. Be sure to factor in wait times at the airport to drop off luggage and clear security. TSA pre-check can be very helpful! Remember, even if you CAN make it, it’s possible for your ship to arrive late in port due to weather or other reasons. I was on a ship that was late into port due to mechanical issues and many people missed their flights. Ships have also been late arriving due to weather, such as storms or fog. Galveston and Tampa are well known for fog problems. If a morning flight is best for you, consider spending the night at a hotel and fly out the following morning. Why add stress to the end of your wonderful vacation? Disembarkation instructions Your cabin steward will leave printed instructions, along with luggage tags. This will include instructions on what to do with your luggage, as well as some basic customs information. Also included will be a timetable for when luggage numbers will be called the following morning. Luggage tags and debarkation times You will receive luggage tags that are numbered according to when you wish to disembark. If this time does not work for you, you can ask your steward for new luggage tags or go to guest relations. They will be happy to change them and is probably faster and easier than asking your cabin steward. Debarking thousands of passengers within a few hours is quite a process. Cruise lines keep things organized by assigning color coded luggage tags which correspond to certain disembarkation times. As noted above, this timetable will be left in your cabin along with your luggage tags. What do I do with my luggage? (Of course, this only applies to regular disembarkation. If you are doing self-assist/walk off, keep you luggage in your cabin.) On the last night of your cruise, place your luggage outside your cabin door. Generally, bags must be outside by 10pm. The actual time for your sailing will be noted on the instructions. The ship’s crew will be working hard that night placing the luggage in a holding area, so that it can be moved off the ship quickly the next morning. DO NOT miss the deadline! RememberContinueContinue reading “Cruise Disembarkation Tips: Smooth Sailings for Your Farewell”
Sail Smoothly: Must-Have Cruise Documents and Boarding Advice
Cruise documents…what are they and which ones you need? To help you avoid any major mishaps, let’s walk through the basics and touch on some additional items you might want to bring along just in case. Boarding a cruise ship is different from boarding a domestic plane flight. Because cruises involve international travel, you won’t be allowed to sail if you don’t have the proper documents and identification. Therefore, you will want to know EXACTLY what to take with you. And then double and triple check your list to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. The check-in process can be intimidating if you have never done it before. To make it easier, let’s explore exactly what cruise documents are, which ones you need and how you obtain them. With this information in hand, you will be all set for a successful and stress-free embarkation day. This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. What are cruise documents? Necessary cruise documents include acceptable official forms of identification and your boarding pass. If you are visiting countries that require visas, you must also have those with you. These items must be presented upon arrival at the port. After port officials check and verify each these documents at the terminal, will you be permitted to board your ship. Many cruise lines are now providing online boarding passes. Take a screen shot or add it to your wallet on your phone for easy access. At a time when eco-friendliness is top of mind and nearly every traveler has a mobile phone, it’s easy to rely on apps to keep everything in one spot and avoid wasting paper. But…what would happen if your phone was lost, stolen or broken during your travels? For this reason, I always advise printing hard copies of anything you might need in a pinch. Try to use as little paper as possible. It’s better to be safe than sorry. ALWAYS…..pack all necessary travel documents in your carry-on luggage in an easy to access place. Also, be sure to carry on any medications and valuables, such as jewelry, car keys, glasses, etc. Documents needed for cruisers to board a ship Identification For most cruises, you’ll need a passport book that’s valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. In some cases, you can use a passport card instead of a passport book. This will only work if you are re-entering the United States via your ship from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean. If your cruise is a closed-loop voyage, according to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, you can embark with an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth. To qualify as a closed-loop cruise, the places these itineraries can include must be contiguous territories of the United States. That includes Mexico and Canada, because both share land borders with the U.S., and several of the islands of the Caribbean. The Enhanced Driver’s License allows you to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean and is valid at land and sea border crossing but not airports. So, if you are boarding in Alaska and flying home from Vancouver, an Enhanced Driver’s License will not work. NEXUS card. If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you may use a NEXUS or FAST Trusted Traveler Card for closed loop cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and Bahamas, Pacific Coast, Canada, and the Panama Canal. For cruises to Europe and Transatlantic sailings, a passport is still required for travel. Different documentation is acceptable for minors under 16, including an original, notarized, or certified copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Voter registration cards and Social Security cards are not considered proof of citizenship, nor are school ID’s. If you do choose to take advantage of this opportunity to travel without a passport, there are a couple of warnings to keep in mind. If something goes wrong and you have to return to the U.S. by air, you will need a passport to board a flight. Also, if you miss the ship in one of the ports, you will have to make your own way home or to catch up with the cruise, which would be difficult without a passport. Additionally, if you are a U.S. permanent resident, you must carry your green card. You can use it instead of a passport on closed-loop sailings, but carrying a passport from your country of citizenship is highly recommended. Also note that if your green card is expired, you likely will not be allowed back into the U.S. You are responsible for contacting the embassies in the places you’ll be visiting to make sure there is no additional paperwork required. If you are a US citizen and want to apply for a passport, this is the link. Be sure to apply at least 6 months prior to departure from the USA. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html Boarding passes Just like a flight, a cruise boarding pass is the document that shows you’ve checked in for your sailing, set up an onboard account for purchases and chosen a boarding time. It will also includes important information like your name, booking number, cabin number and any packages you may have booked with or purchased, such as a beverage package. Most cruise lines are now using mobile apps that allow you to check in prior to arriving at the terminal. If you don’t plan on using the app, be sure to arrive with a printed copy of your boarding pass….having one will speed up the check-in process on boarding day. If , for some reason you arrive without aContinueContinue reading “Sail Smoothly: Must-Have Cruise Documents and Boarding Advice”
Unlock Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Benefits
Updated May 29, 2026 Cruising with Celebrity comes with plenty of rewarding perks. By joining the Captain’s Club, you’ll unlock exclusive benefits designed to make every voyage even more memorable. The more you sail, the more rewards you’ll enjoy, with points earned on every cruise based on the stateroom category you book. Members can take advantage of special offers, discounts, and onboard perks such as spa savings, complimentary laundry service, potential stateroom upgrades, and invitations to exclusive events and member-only sailings around the world. From unique onboard experiences to personalized loyalty rewards, the Captain’s Club adds extra value to every getaway. Simply join the loyalty program, start earning points, and enjoy the benefits that come with sailing more often. Captain’s Club members also qualify for a complimentary one-category stateroom upgrade within the same cabin type, up to Aqua Class, based on availability. This upgrade must be requested by phone at the time of booking. Be sure to join the Captain’s Club before your first sailing using the link below. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in the program and begin earning rewards. https://www.celebritycruises.com/captains-club/join-the-club May 28, 2026 Celebrity has announced new Milestone Benefits as part of an enhancement to the Captain’s Club program. These new rewards are designed to give Elite Plus members even more perks, delivered more frequently, as they continue sailing their way toward Zenith status. Below is a breakdown of the exclusive benefits available at each milestone level, beginning at 1,500 Club Points and continuing through 9,000 points. With every milestone reached, members unlock even more rewarding perks designed to elevate the Celebrity Cruises experience. 1,500 Point Milestone 480 minutes of Premium Wi-Fi 20% off specialty dining cover charge One complimentary digital photo Surprise in-room amenity on your milestone sailing 2,250 Point Milestone 720 minutes of Premium Wi-Fi 25% off specialty dining cover charge Surprise in-room amenity on your milestone sailing Extend Your Stay for additional onboard time (not available in all ports) 3,000 Point Milestone 35% off specialty dining cover charge Three complimentary digital photos Surprise in-room amenity on your milestone sailing Double Zenith 6,000 Point Milestone Receive all 3K Benefits PLUS: One specialty lunch on embarkation day of every sailing One specialty dinner on any day of your milestone sailing Champagne delivered on your milestone sailing Triple Zenith 9,000 Point Milestone Receive all 3K Benefits PLUS: One 7-night complimentary Caribbean or Bermuda cruise now in a Sky Suite One specialty lunch on any day of every sailing One specialty dinner on any day of your milestone sailing Champagne delivered on your milestone sailing Milestone FAQ’s Can I start redeeming my benefits as soon as I receive the announcement email on May 28, 2026? Not just yet—your benefits will be available on sailings starting June 11, 2026, and onward. Which benefits will I enjoy on every sailing after reaching a milestone?Once you reach a milestone, you’ll enjoy these benefits on every sailing (benefits based on the milestone): At 1500, 2250, 3000, 6000, 9000 Point Milestone o Complimentary digital photo(s) o Specialty dining cover charge discount At 1500, 2250 Points Milestones o Premium Wi-Fi minute At 2250 Point Milestone o Extend Your Stay (where available) At 6000, 9000 Point Milestones o Complimentary specialty lunch Which benefits are only redeemed once? These exclusive benefits are offered one time, on your first sailing after reaching a milestone: At 1500, 2250, 3000, 6000, 9000 Point Milestones o A surprise in-room amenity At 6000, 9000 Point Milestones o Bottle of champagne o Complimentary specialty dinner I just reached a milestone and completed my first sailing at that milestone prior to June 11, 2026. Can I still receive any of the one-time benefits that come with my milestone? No. Milestone benefits take effect on sailings starting June 11, 2026, and onward. We’re unable to make exceptions for any one-time milestone benefits, including the in-room amenity, champagne, or complimentary specialty dinner. However, you’ll still be able to enjoy all ongoing milestone benefits on sailings after June 11. I applied points from Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor, or Silversea’s Venetian Society to Celebrity Cruises. Will those points count toward milestone benefits? Yes—points transferred through Points Choice are included in your overall Club Points balance. They are not separated or excluded, and they will count toward reaching your milestone and unlocking associated benefits. I’m an Elite Plus or Zenith member through Status Match—am I still eligible for Milestone benefits? Benefits are based on Club Points earned, so you’ll only qualify once you’ve reached the required Milestone Club Point threshold. To unlock these benefits, you’ll need to reach the required point thresholds (1,500; 2,250; 3,000; 6,000; or 9,000 Club Points), regardless of your tier status through Status Match. To reach these thresholds, you can sail with Celebrity Cruises and/or transfer points through Points Choice from our sister brands to build toward your milestone and enjoy the associated benefits. I already receive premium Wi-Fi minutes and specialty dining discounts as an Elite Plus or Zenith member. If I reach a milestone, will these benefits stack? No, these benefits do not stack. Once you unlock a milestone, the associated premium Wi-Fi minutes and specialty dining discount will replace the ones you previously received at your tier level. Captain’s Club Benefits Captain’s Club Tiers Preview 0 Club Points Preview Members receive complimentary access to the Captain’s Club Loyalty Desk service center and a Captain’s Club newsletter with the latest program news and information. Classic 2-149 Club Points Classic members receive complimentary access to the Welcome Event. You will also received savings on exclusive onboard premium offers. Select 150-299 Club Points Select member enjoy all the benefits of a Classic member, plus discounted spa and laundry service specials. Elite 300-749 Club Points Elite members receive even more rewards, including complimentary laundry services, spa benefits and complimentary Captain’s Club cocktail hour each evening from 5pm-7pm (other than embarkation day) at most bars throughout the ship. Elite Plus 750-2999 Club Points Elite Plus members receive with greater benefitsContinueContinue reading “Unlock Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Benefits”