You should book your cruise as early as you can. This will ensure you have the greatest choice available especially during holiday periods which can be very popular and sell out quickly.

Yes. As Australian Medicare and private health insurance will not cover you for any medical costs on board (even on cruises that do not visit foreign ports), it is strongly recommended that you organise comprehensive travel insurance once you have paid your deposit. Be sure to pack a copy of your policy with you in case you need to make a claim during your cruise.

Passports – all passengers are required to have a valid passport for a cruise with an international destination. Find out more at www.passports.gov.au.

Visas – to obtain information about visa requirements please contact your travel agent, relevant consulate or embassy or an online visa service.

Vaccinations – some countries strictly enforce certain health requirements. Failure to do so may result in local authorities preventing passengers from going ashore. Before your trip contact your doctor or an approved public health travel advisory service such as the World Health Organisation (www.who.int), the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Smart Traveller (www.smarttraveller.gov.au) for advice.

Included in your cruise price is accommodation, all of your main meals for the length of your cruise, on board entertainment and activities, and the use of the ships complimentary facilities.

Cruises with companies such as P&O Australia and Princess Cruises include optional extras that can be purchased on board and include shore tours, drinks, meals ashore, bar snacks, room service, massage and beauty treatments, some activities.

All shipboard expenses are charged to your on board account and can be settled at the conclusion of your cruise with cash, travellers cheques or credit card (it is best to check payment options with your cruise line before departing). On board P&O Australian ships and Princess Cruise ships all prices are in Australian dollars. No EFTPOS or ATM facilities are available on board.

Tipping is customary as a thank you for the excellent service provided on board. You can usually organise to have a nominated amount deducted from your on board account daily. Sometimes gratuities are included in your cruise fare.

You should receive a shore tour guide with your pre-cruise information pack. It is recommended that you pre-book shore tours prior to your cruise departure, as popular tours often sell out prior to boarding.

It is best to ensure your flight arrives no later than four hours before your cruise departure time to allow enough time to travel to the cruise terminal and check in. If you are flying home on the same day you leave the cruise, ensure your flight departs no earlier than five hours for domestic flights, and no earlier than six hours for international flights, after your cruise arrives in port. This should allow enough time in case of unforeseen delays and help maintain a stress free holiday.

It is best to check with your cruise line if they have any luggage restrictions. P&O Australia recommends no more than two bags per person that each weigh no more than 32 kilograms. APT River Cruises recommend one bag weighing no more than 20 kilograms per passenger. It is also important to remember that airlines may have different luggage restrictions.

During the day casual clothes are suitable. In the evenings smart casual attire is generally recommended. You will be advised of each evening’s suggested attire. Some nights will require formal dress; women should wear a cocktail dress, evening dress or pant suit and men should wear a suit or jacket and tie.

P&O Australia and Princess Cruise ships all have laundry and dry cleaning services and self serve laundrettes on board. Charges apply.

P&O Australia and Princess Cruise ship cabins are all fitted with standard Australian three point plugs or adaptors.

In the interest of other passengers, cruise ships are non smoking except for designated outdoor areas.

P&O and Princess Cruise ships each have a medical centre on board that is staffed by registered doctors and nurses.

If you have any condition that requires medical attention, medication or special treatment or are not fully mobile you should advise your travel agent at the time of booking. Passengers that require assistance should be accompanied by a personal carer. APT River Cruise ships have limited facilities for disabled people – make sure you enquire about facilities before booking.

Most ships are so big and well stabilized you can hardly tell you’re moving, but if you do happen to pass through some rough water, any queasiness can usually be relieved by an over-the-counter medication. If you knowingly suffer from motion sickness prepare yourself by purchasing medication before you leave home. Medication and treatment are also likely to be available on board the ship.

P&O and Princess Cruise ships have on board phones and computers with internet access, as well as wireless connections to keep in touch by email and internet. Please note access is subject to satellite coverage and charges are higher than on land.

Mobile phone coverage may not be available in some regions throughout your cruise. Please check with your service provider regarding overseas coverage.