Cruise FAQ: Answers to Your Top Cruise Questions

Browse our cruise deals and destination guides, then call 1-888-229-6801. We'll help you compare sailings, ships and cabins, explain the fare rules and deposit, and answer your questions before you book.

For holidays, summer, spring break and family cabins, 9–18 months ahead gives you the best choice and pricing. If you're flexible, last-minute sailings 30–90 days out can also be good value.

A deposit holds your cabin. It commonly ranges from about $100 to $500 per person depending on the cruise line and sailing. Some promotional deposits are non-refundable, so always check the fare rules.

Usually 75–120 days before departure, and earlier for some longer or luxury voyages. After final payment, cancellation penalties normally increase.

Most bookings can be changed before final payment, though fare differences or fees may apply. Cancellation rules depend on your fare type, so we recommend travel insurance.

Your cabin, main dining room and buffet meals, many casual eateries, water, basic coffee and tea, entertainment, pools and most activities. Alcohol, sodas, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, spa and shore excursions usually cost extra.

Not always. Many advertised fares exclude taxes, fees and port expenses. We'll always walk you through the total price.

Most cruise lines add a daily gratuity per guest, roughly $16–$21 per person per day depending on the line and cabin type. Some promotions include prepaid gratuities. See how much a cruise costs.

Only if you'll drink enough each day to beat the price. Many lines require all adults in a cabin to buy the package. Light drinkers usually save by paying per drink.

U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises (starting and ending at the same U.S. port) can generally sail with an original or certified birth certificate plus government photo ID. A passport is still strongly recommended. Read our passport guide.

U.S. citizen children under 16 on closed-loop cruises can usually travel with a birth certificate. If a child travels with only one parent or another adult, bring a signed consent letter from the absent parent(s).

Possibly. Requirements depend on your nationality and every country on the itinerary. Check with the relevant embassies before booking.

Swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, one dressier outfit, medications, documents and a small day bag for embarkation day. See our first-time cruise tips.

Modern ships have stabilizers and most guests feel little motion, especially in the Caribbean. Choose a low, midship cabin if you're sensitive and talk to your doctor or pharmacist about remedies.

Yes, sold as daily or voyage packages. Many cruise line apps also offer free onboard messaging and daily schedules.

Policies vary by cruise line. Many allow a limited amount of wine or champagne at embarkation; spirits are usually not allowed. Check your line's current rules.

Yes. Many ships have supervised kids' clubs by age group, water slides, family shows and kid-friendly dining. See our family cruise deals guide.

Most cruise lines require infants to be at least 6 months old on many sailings, and 12 months for some longer itineraries. Guests under 21 usually must share a cabin with an adult.

Most standard cabins sleep up to four. Larger families can book connecting cabins, family cabins or suites.

Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30. Cruise lines track storms closely and change routes to avoid them, which can mean a different port or an extra sea day. Travel insurance is recommended.

It depends on the destination. The Caribbean sails year-round, Alaska from May to September, Europe is best in spring and fall. See our best time to book a cruise guide.