Preparing for your first cruise

Here’s now to make sure your cruise is problem free: • Make sure you have proper and up to date identification which may include a passport and driver’s licence. Ensure that your passport has at least 6 months period before expiry as many countries insist that the passports do not expire within 6 months of entry. • Check your travel insurance policy covers you for anything you might do while on your cruise: if you are mountain climbing or para-sailing you need to be certain your travel insurance covers your activities. • If you take regular medication, make sure you carry it with you – if you suffer migraine or occasional upset stomachs, take along treatments so if you’re unlucky enough to suffer an attack, you can use medication you know works. Also sea-sickness pills, painkillers and diarrhoea pills as such medicines can be very expensive on board. • Most cruise ships accept credit cards and traveller’s checks but it’s better to take along sufficient ‘pocket money’ for small expenses as using cashless systems can incur a hefty handling charge. Check which currency is used on the ship and that the ports you visit and carry enough cash to pay for drinks and taxis in the right currency.