Fly-Cruise package or Cruise Only?

If you want a hassle free cruise experience we would recommend booking the fly-cruise package (if applicable). On some cruises it is not possible to get to the ship before the sailing time and an overnight hotel is also required.

If you purchase the fly-cruise package offered by the cruise line:

• Your pre and post cruise hotel (if any) and transfers between the airport/hotel and the ship will be included in the price
• In Europe and in the Caribbean, the cruise line may claim your luggage for you and carry it to the ship, all you have to do is board the bus, check in at the ship and your luggage arrives in your cabin.
• Otherwise you will have to collectyour luggage and clear customs before handing it over to the cruise line.
• If your flight is delayed, the cruise line will be aware of your delay and may be able to hold the ship for a few hours. If not, they will make every effort to get you to the first port to board the ship.
• You may not be told your flight times until a few weeks prior to departure and you will not be able to change to another flight.
• Flights to US ports may not be direct - in order to save on costs you may be routed through a US hub aiport for an onward flight to your cruise ship.

If you book your own flight:

• If you miss the boat, you have to get yourself to the next port of call to join the cruise - the cruise line will probably help with the arrangements but not the cost.
• You will have to claim your own luggage and lug it around with you.
• You must buy transfers from the cruise line or get a taxi to the cruise terminal from the airport/hotel.
• Plan to arrive a day early so you do not miss the ship departure if the flight is late.
make your own hotel arrangements.
• Make sure your travel insurance covers trip delays, missed cruise connections and lost or delayed baggage.

You may be able to save money by booking your own flight, pre or post-cruise hotel and transfers so you could get your travel agent to cost the two alternatives and then weigh up the pros and cons before booking.