call 0845 644 3188
email sales@cruisegp.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Financial matters

Before you travel

Flights

Before you book

Transfers

On board matters

Visas and Passports

Gratuities (tipping!)

  • Can I prepay tips?
  • How much should I tip?
  • Are tips included?
  • Whom should I tip?

    • FAQ - Answers

    Financial matters

    Do you levy charges for payments?
    Yes. We charge 1.75% for personal credit cards and 2% for any business card transactions. There is however no charge for debit card payments.
    When are final balances due?
    Final balances are due to us 12 weeks prior to departure.
    To whom are cheques made payable?
    GLOBAL PROFESSIONALS - thanks. It would really help if you could add your four figure Global Pros booking ref on the back!
    Can I pay by bank transfer?
    Yes, please contact our staff and they will advise accordingly. Please be sure to quote your four figure Global Professionals booking reference on the payment so that we can allocate funds correctly!
    I have a loyalty Club discount voucher, how does this work?
    If you have a discount voucher from the cruise line, we will be happy to accept this at the time of booking if our offer allows this, however depending on the size of the discount we may have to increase our fare to cover the lost commission which would result. Please submit the orginal voucher ( photocopies will not be accepted, sorry! ) to us and we will then amend your final balance accordingly once approved by the cruise line. If you book within 12 weeks then we will issue a cheque once the voucher has been accepted by them. Please note that some offers promoted by us will not permit the application of any voucher. Details will be provided at the point of sale.
    What is your deposit schedule?
    In the case of ABTA retail bookings where we act as booking agent for a cruise line then their deposit terms will apply and we will advise accordingly. If the holiday is one of our own tailor made arrangements where Global Professionals books flights and hotels etc in addition to the cruise arrangement then we will charge £250 or 20% of the final invoice value, which ever is the greater. Note that this might be exceeded in the case of special fare arrangements where a package includes flights which must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Your travel consultant will assist you here.

    Before you travel

    Travelling with Children who are not your own
    Often Grandparents like to take their grandchildren away on a cruise. Cruiselines now require a notarised letter giving adults specific permission from the parent or legal guardian of anyone under 18 to travel. If this is not obtained then the cruiseline reserves the right to deny boarding.
    Travelling with children who have a different surname to you
    Cruiselines now ask you to take your child's birth certificate with you to present at check in if you are travelling on a cruise with a child who has a different surname to you.
    When will my tickets arrive
    We expect to receive tickets approximately 2 weeks prior to departure. Once received they will be forwarded on to you without delay.
    Can I prebook seats?
    Yes and no! In short it depends on the airline, the nature of the seat booking and whether you are a frequent flyer with the airline. The situation is changing by the week too as airlines try to streamline costs. If not requested at point of sale and the airline does allow this we can request seats for you at a cost of £10 plus any charge which the airline might charge. As is the case with such things these seats can not be 100% confirmed as a change of aircraft might mean a different configuration. In this very rare event no refund can be given unfortunately.
    When is the cabin assigned when booked as a guarantee?
    In some cases we hear back from the cruise line within 24 hours of booking. In other cases you might not hear of your definitive cabin number until you show up at the pier. In 99% of cases however we can give you the assigned cabin number before we receive tickets. The nature of these reduced fares means that we are unable to go back to the cruise line and request "better" cabins once allocated, though you may upgrade your cabin, subject to availability and prevailing price difference.
    Can I book excursions in advance
    Most cruise lines give you the chance to book these upfront. Cruise line websites have details on the excursions offered by destination and you can either book these online or via their office.Given the nature of these transactions we regret we are unable to do this for you but will happily give you the relevant phone number to do this.

    Flights

    Is an e-ticket the same as a Ticket on Departure?
    No, an e-ticket is an electronic version of the more traditional paper ticket. Paper tickets are being phased out by all the airlines and are being replaced by e-tickets. An e-ticket can be presented at the check in desk and does not require you to pick up a "proper" ticket at the sales desk.
    What are the benefits of e-tickets?
    E-tickets are better than paper tickets in that they can be replaced much more simply. If you ever lost a paper ticket the airlines were at liberty to charge for a replacement, this meant a trip to the airline office and caused a lot of hassle in addition to the cost. An e-ticket can be faxed or emailed to you if lost and is just the same to the airline as a traditional paper ticket. Within 2 years paper tickets will be consigned to the history books!
    What does 2PC mean on my ticket for baggage allowances?
    On transatlantic services airlines have traditionally used the "piece" system, which means that you are allowed a maximum of 2 pieces of luggage. There are maximum dimensions which apply which can vary between the airlines but a "normal sized" suitcase will be fine in most cases. UK airport health and safety guidelines insist that no piece weighs more than 32 Kg. Items weighing more than this will be rejected at checkin. Note that baggage allowances are subject to change, so you are advised to check with the airline websites or call us on 0845 644 3188 for more information before you pack! If we receive any updates on this we will post this to our own site under news
    What terminal am I going from?
    We have terminal information for all the major UK departure points. Simply go to links section for information on all UK airports and follow the links to each one.
    Can you provide car parking at the airport?
    Yes! We can even save you money on the gate prices too! Either call us and we will advise accordingly or you can go to our Links Section on our Home Page and there you will find a link to our partner site offering Car parking. To save your nerves and get the holiday off to a flying start why not book a hotel overnight and get car parking included? You might be surprised to find that this is on occasions cheaper than parking alone!
    Can I pre-book seats on the plane?
    In many cases this can be done however airlines only save a proportion of seats for preallocation. The remainder are allocated at check in. If we can't book the seats you are looking for then be sure to check in early and get the pick of what's left. On charter flights there may well be a charge levied by the airline for this service. This will increase if you are looking for "extended leg room" seats however emergency exit seats can only be allocated on date of travel at check in due to safety issues.
    I have a flight which involves changing planes in the US. What does this entail?
    US law states that all passengers will have to clear customs and immigration formalities at the first point of entry into the US. This means that you will have to present your passport and collect luggage from the carousel and go through customs. IT DOES NOT MEAN that you will have to check in again however! Very soon after customs you will be directed to a transfer belt where your case will be taken from you and this will be loaded onto your onward connecting flight. You will have to go through security screening again but will go thereafter straight to your gate. On the return from the US things are more straightforward as you will not need to collect baggage off the carousel at the intermediate airport, it will be taken by the airline directly to your connecting flight.
    Why does the return flight from the US take less time than travelling out?
    The jetstream provides eastbound transatlantic flights with tailwinds which effectively make them fly faster, hence the reduction in travel time! Incredible but true!
    What happens if I miss my connecting flight?
    The airline is responsible for getting you to your destination and will rebook you on the next available flight to your destination
    Can I prebook special meals?
    Yes, a range of menu plans are available to cover a wide variety of special meal requirements. Let your consultant know at the time of booking and we will be glad to help.
    What are the check in times?
    As a rule work on 3 hours for intercontinental and 2 hours within Europe. Low cost carriers work to shorter times however we still recommend 2 hours to allow for time to clear customs and immigration formalities.

    Before you book

    When is the Hurricane Season?
    The official Hurricane Season in the Caribbean runs from June 1 to 30 November each year. Activity peaks in September. Note that cruise ships are able to see these storms coming and will divert course to ensure passenger safety at all times.
    What is an Over 55 offer?
    This does not mean that everyone on board will be over 55 years of age!! Some cruise lines notably Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer special rates at certain times to specific segments of the market. This gives them the opportunity to offer different prices without prejudicing those who have booked earlier. One person at least per cabin must be 55 years of age on the day of departure to qualify but all within that cabin will benefit from that price.
    Do I have to have insurance?
    You would be ill advised to travel without insurance. You do not have to book insurance through the cruise line or ourselves however you must complete an insurance waiver form in this case and return it to us.
    Where are your booking conditions?
    These can be found under the Booking Conditions tab at the Home page.
    Are you ABTA bonded?
    Yes, our membership number is K0211 and we also hold an ATOL licence 6238

    Transfers

    How much do cabs cost in Miami?
    Miami Dade County offers a flat fare scheme to ensure you do not get ripped off. The fares are displayed in the cab itself and are set by the Municipality. Be sure to check with your driver that you are looking for the flat fare scheme. As a guide the port is $20, and there is then an ascending scale of charges for the greater Miami area. South Beach hotels are $24 with the Northern Beach hotels coming in at $31 each way. $1 charge per bag is also charged. Tips extra at your discretion.

    On board matters

    What is the currency on board ship?
    UK based cruise lines (P+O, Cunard, Fred Olsen) will have Sterling as the currency on board. US based lines Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess usually have the US $ as the main currency. In all cases you can charge purchases on board to your Seapass or cruise card linked to your cabin number. You can settle this bill either as you go or on the last night. Most people use their credit card to cover payment and pay this in their "home" currency when the statement arrives regardless of what the onboard currency is.
    When are the two evening meal sittings?
    Generally 6.15pm is first or main sitting and 8.30pm is second sitting. Do not worry about missing evening entertainment as a result of having one or other sitting as it is usually repeated to ensure you don't miss out.
    Do I have to leave the ship at each port of call?
    Certainly not! In fact staying on board when everyone gets off ensures peace and quiet and the best spot by the pool! Perfect if you want to unwind and soak up the sun! Note also that some of the treatment packages offered onboard may well be discounted whilst the ship is docked at some ports.
    What is Concierge Class and what do you get.
    Celebrity Concierge Class is a category of stateroom combined with extra comforts to enhance your cruise experience. It is available on every ship in the fleet and there are over 50 added amenities for you to enjoy. In stateroom: Chilled bottle of sparkling wine on arrival Fresh bouquet of flowers, brought to guests' rooms daily Fresh fruit and canapés delivered daily to guests' rooms Choice of plush bed linen and pillows Pillow-top mattress Leather key holder Complimentary binoculars Personalised stationery Tote bag Umbrella You will also find a table for two and cushioned chairs on your balcony In bathroom: Hansgroh massage showerhead Plush Frette bathrobes Over-sized soft towels Salon-quality hairdryer A selection of shampoos, body lotions and soaps Priority Service: Priority check-in Express luggage delivery VIP invitations to events Preference on shore excursions Early embarkation and disembarkation Dining and seating preference Press service Shoeshine valet Laundry service
    Can I send receive emails?
    Yes most ships have internet cafes where you can keep up with your emails if you wish.
    When does embarkation commence?
    As a rough guide 4 - 6 hours before sailing however this can be earlier in some cases. Note that you MUST arrive for embarkation formalities no later than 2 hours prior to departure.
    Are breakfast and dinner included in pre cruise Hotel stays?
    Unless specifically stated otherwise, hotel stays are usually booked on a Room Only basis.
    What is the board basis on a cruise ship?
    We call it extended full board. Basically you can eat as long as you have your eyes open! Breakfast merges with mid morning snacks, then lunch and afternoon tea, before a wonderful dinner all rounded off with a midnight buffet. Room service which is free can also cater for those who have the munchies at night, too!
    I would like to upgrade my cabin
    You can if there is space subject to any supplementary charges for the higher grade cabin. If this is not possible then you can always try to see the Purser when you embark.

    Visas and Passports

    What is the ESTA and how do I get one
    The ESTA is the online equivalent of the green I-94 form which are handed out to non-US citizens who are eligible to travel to the US on the VISA WAIVER SCHEME. Go to our link section on the home page to be taken to the OFFICIAL US website for this. There are NO CHARGES if you complete this via this link. Beware of rogue sites which offer to "help" you complete the form then charge $49 for the privilege. Note that there are some restrictions on those who wish to travel under the Visa Waiver Scheme. People who have criminal records will probably need to apply direct to the US Embassy for a visa.
    Do I need a visa for the USA?
    If you are travelling on one of our holidays under a UK passport which is machine readable ( the maroon type ones with 2 lines of code beneath your passport photo.), and which will not expire within a minimum 90 days following your return date and do not have a criminal record then you will be able to travel under the VISA WAIVER SCHEME. The advice on this changes regularly so please visit our LINKS section for the upto date position on this important matter.
    Will I need visas for the ports visited on the cruise?
    Generally you are covered on a ships visa provided that you take the cruise ships own organised excursions. This is particularly true in St Petersburg Russia. If you want to "do your own thing" here then you will be required to obtain your own visa. If there are any exceptions to this rule we will advise at the time of booking. Contact our partners via the LINKS section for assistance with all visas.
    I am not a UK national what should I do about visas?
    We advise all passengers who are non UK nationals to check with their embassy for information and advice regarding chosen ports of call.
    Does my child need a passport for travel to the USA?
    Yes, the law has now changed and all passengers now require their own machine readable passports for travel to the USA.
    I have a criminal record, can I travel on the VISA WAIVER SCHEME?
    No, you will have to apply to the US Embassy in London. Allow minimum 4 months to obtain this to process the paperwork.

    Gratuities (tipping!)

    Can I prepay tips?
    Yes you can, unless you have booked under a group allocation where we automatically remove these for all bookers. In this case you can elect to have these added to you ship account so this gets round the issue.
    How much should I tip?
    On RCCL and Celebrity, guests staying in standard cabins are given $10 per guest per day on board as the guideline tipping amount. Remember, these are US cruiselines and tipping is part and parcel of life in the USA. On other lines and if you are fortunate enough to end up in a Suite then the rates increase. We now recommend the prepayment of gratuities as the rate for sterling payments is better than would be applied locally on board. Full details and specific costs for your sailing are available on request.
    Are tips included?
    This is probably the one area which attracts the most calls. The honest answer is that it depends on the cruise line. As most people wish to address this locally, on RCCL and Celebrity Cruises we automatically REMOVE tips unless you specifically ask us to include them. Some cruise lines will automatically add them to your ship account however you have the right to ask them to be removed if you wish to tip yourself. Note that this does not apply in the case of Azamara Cruises - if not prepaid they will automatically add the gratuity to your shipboard account.
    Whom should I tip?
    As a general rule there are 3 staff members who would be in line for a tip at the end of the cruise. This is not a definitive statement however, and if another staff member goes the extra mile to help then they would really appreciate a tip too! If we work on the $10 rule per day then this amount (which equates to roughly £6) would be split as follows: Your CABIN STEWARD is seen as the main person to tip. He would receive £3 of the budgetted £6. Your MAIN WAITER would expect £2 per day and the WAITER'S ASSISTANT(also known as the BUSBOY) would get £1. This of course would apply only if you are happy with the service offered.

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About Cruise GP

Global Professionals is a family-run cruise retailer and tour operator of cruise based holidays working from a small call centre base in Bishops Stortford, Herts. We specialise in particular in the sale of Balcony Cabins and Suites and scour the operator's prices for the best cruise deals. We can offer everything from a short cruise sailing from the UK with no flying right, through to a glorious round the world cruise and can add land stay elements as you require them. We work with all the main cruise lines and can therefore tailor make your cruise to fit your needs exactly. We are ABTA bonded and also hold a CAA tour operator ATOL licence for your financial protection.

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