Cruise guide – questions and answers. Discover them now!

Welcome to MonTatane Tour (MTT) your guide on “Cruise guide – questions and answers”! Whether you are a curious novice or an experienced sailor looking for new destinations, here you will find detailed information, practical advice and exclusive recommendations to make every moment at sea an exceptional experience.

Let’s dive together into the captivating world of cruises, where wonder and escape await you at every stopover. Good luck and good travels aboard the MonTatane Tour Complete Cruise Guide!

Cruise guide – questions and answers

All the answers to your questions!

What is a cruise?

A cruise is a boat trip that usually includes a series of stops in different destinations. Cruises are offered by cruise lines that own and operate cruise ships.

What are the different types of cruises?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

There are many types of cruises, each with their own characteristics. The main types of cruises are:

Family cruises . These cruises are designed for families with children, with child-friendly facilities and activities.
Luxury cruises . These cruises are designed for people who are looking for a more active cruise experience, with activities such as hiking, biking and kayaking.
Thematic cruises .

How to choose a cruise?

MSC Euribia - Discover the MSC Cruises fleet

When choosing a cruise, it is important to consider the following factors:

Your budget . Cruises can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you begin your search.
Your activity level . If you are an active person, you will want to choose a cruise that offers activities that interest you.
Your interests . If you have specific interests, such as music or art, you will want to choose a cruise that offers activities related to those interests.

How to book a cruise?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

You can book a cruise directly with a cruise line, through a travel agent, or through a travel booking website.

How much does a cruise cost?

The price of a cruise depends on several factors, including:

The cruise line : Cruise lines offer a variety of prices, depending on their reputation, the size of their ships and the services they offer. MSC and Costa Cruises are the most competitive!
Length of cruise : Longer cruises are generally more expensive than shorter cruises.
The Itinerary : Cruises that visit popular destinations are generally more expensive than cruises that visit less popular destinations.
Cabin type : Interior cabins are the most affordable, while balcony cabins are the most expensive.
Services included : Some cruises include all meals and drinks, while others require additional payments.

Generally, the price of a cruise for one person starts at around 400 euros for a 5-day cruise. 7-day cruises start at around 500 euros, and 14-day cruises start at around 1,000 euros.

How much does a cruise cost?

Here are some examples of cruise prices for one person:

5-day cruise in the Mediterranean with MSC Cruises: 400 euros
7-day Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean: 1,000 euros
14-day cruise in Asia with Costa Croisières: 1,000 euros

It is possible to find cruises at reduced prices, especially during off-peak periods (winter, start of the season) or by booking in advance. It is also possible to negotiate prices with cruise lines, especially if you are booking a group.

Here are some tips for finding an affordable cruise:

Compare prices from different cruise lines.
Book in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
Choose cruises in low season or during the week.
Be flexible on dates and destinations.

What should I bring for a cruise?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

The list of things to bring for a cruise varies depending on the length of the cruise and your personal needs. In general, you should bring the following:

Clothes . You will need clothing suitable for the weather and the activities you plan to do.
Toiletries . You will need your usual toiletries but know that in all cabins you will find towels, shampoo and shower gel (regardless of the company) .
Drugs . If you are taking medication, be sure to bring it with you.
Documents . You will need your passport, visa (if necessary) and health insurance card.

What is life like on a cruise ship?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Life on board a cruise ship is generally very comfortable. Ships offer a variety of facilities and activities, including restaurants, bars, swimming pools, spas, gyms and performance halls.

→ Comfortable Cabins

Enjoy well-appointed cabins offering all the necessary comfort to make your stay pleasant. From interior cabins to luxurious suites, find the accommodation that suits your preferences.

→ Gastronomy

Savor exquisite cuisine with a variety of onboard restaurants offering gourmet menus. From hearty buffets to elegant dinners, every meal is an exceptional dining experience.

→ Entertainment

Immerse yourself in a world of entertainment with live shows, concerts, outdoor movies and much more. Every evening, discover a new facet of on-board entertainment.

→ Activities

Take part in a variety of activities, from cooking classes to fitness sessions to artistic workshops. There’s always something exciting to do, whether you’re traveling as a family, as a couple, or as a solo traveler.

→Captivating destinations

Explore unique destinations while enjoying the comfort of your ship. Well-organized excursions allow you to discover the must-see sites at each stopover.

→ Attentive service

Benefit from attentive service provided by dedicated staff. Whether in restaurants, shops or activities, the crew is there to meet your needs.

→ Relaxed atmosphere

Immerse yourself in a relaxed atmosphere and forget about daily stress. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, in a luxurious spa or on your private balcony, tranquility reigns on board.

→ Nightlife

Don’t miss the vibrant nightlife with bars, discos and elegant lounges. Enjoy memorable evenings under the stars or dance the night away.

What to do during cruise stopovers?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Cruise stopovers: how they work and where to go

Stopovers are an opportunity to discover the destinations you visit during a cruise. They can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the cruise you have chosen.

How do the stopovers take place?

On the day of the call, the ship arrives at the port at the scheduled time. Passengers are allowed to leave the ship after a certain time, usually between 8:00 and 9:00 a.m. They must then return to the ship at the designated time, usually between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

During the stopover, you can choose to join excursions organized by the cruise line or go exploring on your own.

Organized excursions

Excursions organized by the cruise line are a way to discover a destination without having to worry about the organization. They are generally led by experienced guides who will show you the must-see places.

Organized excursions are often offered at package rates, which include transportation, guides and entry to tourist sites, but they are expensive.

Go explore on your own

If you prefer to explore on your own, you can rent a car, take public transportation, or simply walk around.

To get a wealth of information and unravel all the mysteries about how the calls take place, as well as to discover each port of call in detail, click on the image and dive into an inexhaustible source of advice and essential details. Your adventure begins here!

How to dress for a cruise?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

The dress code on a cruise often depends on the type of cruise, cruise line, and destinations. Here are some general tips to help you plan your wardrobe.

Daywear

For days at sea or excursions, casual and comfortable clothing is appropriate. Swimsuits, shorts, t-shirts, light dresses and comfortable shoes are often suitable.

Casual evening

For casual dinners, resort chic attire is usually appropriate. This might include smart pants with a shirt for men, and a casual dress or smart outfit for women.

Formal outfits

Cruises offer at least one formal evening. For men, this usually means a suit or tuxedo outfit. For women, a cocktail dress or evening dress is often appropriate.

Accessories

Don’t forget to bring accessories such as sunglasses, hats and beach bags for sunny days.

Personal checklist

Check the cruise line’s specific requirements, as some may have special clothing policies. For example, some companies (like Ponant) may prohibit ripped jeans or flip-flops in restaurants.

Climate and destinations

Consider the climate of the destinations you will visit. If you’re stopping in warm locations, lightweight, breathable clothing will be essential, while cooler destinations will require extra layers.

How to dress for a cruise? My dress code

Well, I have to tell you a secret. On boats, no one is obliged to do anything, except on Ponant. It’s a luxury company and they are quite strict about their dress code. But that goes with the customers.

On other boats, the companies offer a dress code, but you are not obliged to follow it. Me, for example, for chic evenings, I take out my most beautiful tatanes, and my most beautiful dress shorts. When others wear polished shoes or heels! Everyone determines their most elegant outfit. For me, it’s my tatanes.

I know it might sound weird, but I think tatanes are chic. They’re comfortable, they’re practical, and they have a little rock’n’roll side that I like. Well, you understood, it’s also the name of my site.

How to deal with seasickness?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Overcoming seasickness can cause concern for some travelers during their cruise adventures. It is essential to note that, contrary to preconceived ideas, seasickness remains relatively rare.

Personally, during my first five cruises, I often felt nauseated, but I must admit that I did not follow the advice I am giving you today. Over time, I adopted these tips and the symptoms disappeared.

To minimize seasickness.

Eat light before and during the trip.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine and nicotine.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
If you are susceptible to seasickness, take anti-nausea medication before traveling. You can also ask at reception, they will give you some; it’s offered by the house.

Treatment

Sit or lie down in a quiet, dark place.
Close your eyes and focus on your breathing.
Drink clear liquids, such as water or fruit juice.

Choose quieter routes and times

If seasickness is a major concern, consider choosing itineraries or times of year when sea conditions are generally calmer.

It’s important to note that not everyone reacts to seasickness the same way, and different methods may work for different people. If you have any significant concerns, it is always recommended to consult your healthcare professional before departure.

What are the pros and cons of cruises?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Discover the many benefits that make cruises an unforgettable experience, with at least 23 highlights to explore! To learn more about these advantages and, let’s be honest, to find the few disadvantages (there are two, if we had to mention them), click on the image and get ready to set sail for an exciting adventure!

Benefits

An easy way to visit multiple destinations
A high-end service
A variety of activities and facilities

Disadvantages

Stopovers can be short
Cruise ships can be crowded during school holidays

What are the best cruise lines?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

For more information on the companies, click on the image!

The best cruise lines are those that offer good value, quality service, and a variety of activities and facilities. The main cruise lines are:

Royal Caribbean
Carnival
MSC Cruises
Costa Cruises
Disney Cruise Line

What is security like on a cruise ship?

Absolute safety while cruising

Safety on board a cruise ship is a major concern for cruise lines. Ships are equipped with an array of safety features, such as life buoys, life jackets and fire extinguishing systems, to ensure the protection of passengers and crew. Crew members receive extensive safety training and are available 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies.

It is interesting to note that, unlike our cities where insecurity seems omnipresent, cruise ships do not tolerate any compromise in terms of security. Indeed, during my 15 years of cruising, I was able to observe on three occasions that violence on board was treated with exemplary severity.

Fight during a cruise – Sanction

Incidents involving fights are taken seriously, and the actions taken by companies are unequivocal. As a notable example, this year on a Costa ship, a group got into a violent altercation, and they were disembarked in Rome even though they were originally from Paris. They had to return at their own expense.

This clearly demonstrates that passenger safety is a top priority on a cruise ship, and cruise lines do not hesitate to take strict measures to preserve the reputation and notoriety of their service. Thus, it is clear that those looking for trouble on board would do well to think twice before venturing out on a cruise, as zero tolerance towards any form of violence goes a long way in maintaining a safe and pleasant environment for all passengers .

How to take care of children on a cruise?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Many cruise lines offer child-friendly facilities and activities. Ships typically have kids’ clubs, kiddie pools, and children’s activity programs. The mini club is free on liners!

Here are some examples of activities for children on a cruise:

Indoor games and activities: games room, indoor swimming pool, cinema, theater, etc.
Outdoor games and activities: outdoor swimming pool, water park, playground, etc.
Shows: children’s shows, musical shows, etc.
Arcade room

What is the service like on a cruise ship?

Service on board a cruise ship is generally excellent. Crew members are trained to be considerate, helpful and courteous. They are always ready to help passengers.

Service on board a cruise ship includes:

Room service : meals are served in the ship’s restaurants. Crew members take orders, serve food and clear tables.
Room service : passengers can order meals and drinks in their room. Crew members bring orders to the bedroom door.
Concierge service : Passengers can ask crew members for help with a variety of tasks, such as booking excursions, car rentals or organizing special events.

Cruise lines offer a variety of onboard services to meet the needs of all passengers. For example, cruise lines offer menus suitable for special diets, babysitting services and entertainment programs for children.

Here are some tips for enjoying service on a cruise ship:

Be respectful to crew members. They work hard to provide you with excellent service.
Tip crew members who have done you a favor. Tips are generally appreciated and help motivate crew members.

How to choose the right cabin?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Choosing the right cabin on a cruise is crucial to an enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you in your selection:

Cabin location . Cabins midships and at waterline level are generally less prone to movement, which can be important if you are susceptible to seasickness.
Bridge and positioning . Some passengers prefer to be near upper decks for easy access to facilities, while others opt for lower decks to minimize ship noise and movement.
View and balcony . If scenery is important to you, consider a cabin with an ocean view or even a balcony. This can significantly improve your experience.
Cabin type . The different cabin categories offer various advantages. Suites are more spacious with often additional amenities, while interior cabins are generally more affordable.

How to choose the right cabin?

Proximity to elevators and stairs . If proximity to ship access points is important, choose a cabin near elevators or stairs.
Potential noise . Avoid booths located near busy public spaces, such as bars or theaters, to minimize noise pollution.
Budget . Determine your budget before you start looking. Interior cabins are often more affordable, while suites can be more luxurious but also more expensive.
Amenities . If specific amenities are important to you, like a bathtub, mini-fridge, or work space, be sure to check cabin details before booking.

What to do in case of bad weather?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

Cruise ships are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, but it’s always best to take precautions during inclement weather.

Here are some tips to follow:

Find out about the weather forecast. The cruise line will provide you with information about the weather conditions expected for your trip.
Stay inside. If the weather is bad, it is best to stay inside the ship.
Follow the instructions of the crew personnel. Crew personnel are trained to deal with inclement weather and will be able to provide you with specific instructions.
In case of rain, the exterior decks may be slippery. It is important to walk carefully and wear non-slip shoes.
In the event of a storm, the ship can be put into safety mode. This means that activities and services may be limited. It is important to follow the instructions of the crew personnel.
The ship may move significantly. It is important to stay indoors and attach yourself to a fixed point.
There may be high waves. Do not go out onto exterior decks.

My own experiences

I have been on several cruises, and I have experienced a few episodes of swell (twice in 15 years). In all cases, the ships were equipped with stabilizers, which helped reduce movements.

I felt the biggest movements on a 2,000 passenger ship. This type of ship is smaller and less stable than larger ships. But I remind you, it is quite rare, especially in the Mediterranean.

What happens if you miss boarding?

Cruise guide – questions and answers

If you miss boarding a cruise ship, you risk losing your cruise. Cruise ships depart on schedule, and they can’t wait for passengers who arrive late.

What happens depends on the cruise line and the circumstances. Some cruise lines may allow you to rejoin the ship at the next port of call, but this may incur additional charges. Other cruise lines may require you to purchase a new ticket for another cruise.

Here are some tips to avoid missing boarding:

Arrive at the port of embarkation at least three hours before the scheduled departure time. This gives you plenty of time to go through boarding formalities and find your cabin.
Find out about boarding times and security procedures. This will help you prepare and avoid delays.

If you have an impediment that prevents you from arriving at your boarding time, contact the cruise line as soon as possible. The cruise line may be able to offer you a solution, such as postponing your cruise or boarding at the next stop.

Missing boarding time during a cruise stopover

Cruise guide – questions and answers

If you miss your boarding time during a cruise stopover (and I don’t wish you to ), you should contact the ship immediately . The cruise line will give you directions to reach the next stopover.

→ Missing the ship . If you are not on board before the scheduled boarding time, the ship will depart without you. This will incur additional costs to reach the next port.

→ Additional costs . If you miss departure, you will be responsible for the costs of arranging your return on board, including transport costs to join the ship at the next port.

→ Stress and worry . The stress and worry associated with the possibility of missing the ship can negatively affect your cruise experience.

When is the best time to go on a cruise?

The best time to go on a cruise depends on your preferences and budget.

If you’re looking for warm, sunny temperatures, the summer months (June to August) are ideal for cruises in the Caribbean, Mexico, Bahamas, Mediterranean and Red Sea. These destinations are also popular during school holidays, which can lead to higher prices.

If you’re looking for cheaper rates, May, September and October are generally cheaper. The temperatures are still pleasant, but the crowds are smaller.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the months of November to April are ideal. Temperatures are still mild in many destinations, but prices are lower and crowds are fewer.

Here are some tips for choosing the best time to go on a cruise: