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Please note: All prices featured are per person (unless otherwise stated), and include non commission fares (taxes, fees and port expenses). Prices and availability are subject to change due to changes made by the Cruise Companies. Prices quoted are based on payments made via bank transfer. Visa and Mastercard payments incur a 1.5% transaction fee.
Itinerary
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Day 1
Sydney Depart: Wed, Jan 8, 2020 @ 18:45 -
Day 2
At SeaThu, Jan 9, 2020
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Day 3
At SeaFri, Jan 10, 2020
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Day 4
Fiordland National Park (Scenic Cruising)Arrive: Sat, Jan 11, 2020 @ 07:00
Depart: Sat, Jan 11, 2020 @ 16:00
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Day 5
Dunedin (Port Chalmers)Arrive: Sun, Jan 12, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Sun, Jan 12, 2020 @ 18:00
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Day 6
AkaroaArrive: Mon, Jan 13, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Mon, Jan 13, 2020 @ 18:00
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Day 7
WellingtonArrive: Tue, Jan 14, 2020 @ 08:00
Depart: Tue, Jan 14, 2020 @ 18:00
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Day 8
At SeaWed, Jan 15, 2020
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Day 9
TaurangaArrive: Thu, Jan 16, 2020 @ 06:30
Depart: Thu, Jan 16, 2020 @ 18:30
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Day 10
AucklandArrive: Fri, Jan 17, 2020 @ 07:00
Depart: Fri, Jan 17, 2020 @ 18:00
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Day 11
Bay of IslandsArrive: Sat, Jan 18, 2020 @ 07:00
Depart: Sat, Jan 18, 2020 @ 17:00
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Day 12
At SeaSun, Jan 19, 2020
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Day 13
At SeaMon, Jan 20, 2020
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Day 14
Sydney Arrive: Tue, Jan 21, 2020 @ 06:00
Onboard experience
Anytime Dining
Fresh And Flexible, Dine Any Time: Just like a restaurant at home, Anytime Dining enables guests the freedom to dine when and with whom they wish, at any time between 5:30 PM and 10 PM. Reservations are available through an onboard dining hotline, but not required, and diners may choose to eat only with their own group, or be seated with other guests. The choice is yours.
Traditional Dining
Indulge In The Classic Cruise Experience: Harkening back to the Golden Era of sea travel, our Traditional Dining option allows you to dine at the same time each day and enjoy the same tablemates and waitstaff throughout your voyage. Choose from either early or late seating.
World Fresh Marketplace
Taste The World One Station At A Time: The World Fresh Marketplace boasts food stations from around the world that offer endless variety, regional favorites and customizable options for every palate. The new “East Meets West” street food specialty counter features comfort foods like French crepes, Asian noodles, German grilled sausages and Japanese satays to name just a few! The Bakery serves made-from-scratch Western, European and Asian breads and pastries.
The Bakery
An endless assortment of mouthwatering treats, from fresh pie and cakes to decadent pastries and more. The Bakery serves Western, European and Asian flavors and fare fresh from the oven.
International Cafe
Open 24-hours a day, the International Café located in the Piazza is the place for an ever-changing array of small bite meals, treats and gourmet beverages. Grab a freshly baked croissant to start your day, snack on pies and quiche or choose from a wide variety of salads and sandwiches at lunchtime, and indulge in decadent desserts in the evening. Coffee and tea fans will love the New Grounds Crafted Coffee menu featuring a variety of specialty espresso-based drinks made from a custom blend of coffee beans, as well as iced tea fusions.
Alfredo's Pizzeria
Hand-Tossed Pizza, Hot Out Of The Oven: Named for our Master Chef, Alfredo Marzi and voted "Best Pizza at Sea" by USA TODAY, this charming sit-down venue offers an enticing menu of freshly prepared individual-size pizzas along with beer and wines by the glass. The open kitchen design allows you to watch as the chefs create pizza by hand and serve them straight out of the oven. *Beverage charges apply. Venues and menu items vary by ship and are subject to change.
Chopsticks Noodle Bar
Oodles Of Noodles And More: Freshly prepared noodle soups and classic wok-fried noodle dishes make for the perfect light repast with an Asian twist. Enjoy favorites such as Sichuan Dan-Dan Noodles and Wonton Noodle Soup in a casual setting on deck, plus special menu items rotated daily.
Specialty Dining
Dining on board a Princess® cruise ship is a joyful celebration and our specialty restaurants always deliver an extraordinary experience. They are among the best at sea – or anywhere. We serve dishes made with the freshest ingredients, and our menus reflect regional flavors from around the world. You'll find our specialty restaurants are the perfect place to celebrate any occasion.
La Mer, A Fresh Bistro by Emmanuel Renaut
French Bistro-Style Fare With A Modern Twist Head to the lively atrium to savor casual French bistro-style dining with a modern twist at La Mer, created with Chef Emmanuel Renaut, who holds the prestigious title of “Meilleur Ouvrier de France” (Best Craftsmen of France) and Chef of the Year by Le Chef, and whose Flocons de Sel restaurant has received three Michelin stars. Chef Renaut has created a tantalizing menu, showcasing authentic French dishes crafted with the Chef’s signature flair. Additional charge applies.
Harmony
A specialty restaurant created in partnership with the former chef of Wing Lei – the first Chinese restaurant in North America awarded a Michelin star – Harmony, features Chef Richard Chen’s interpretation of classic Cantonese dishes. Chef Chen’s innovative plates demonstrate impeccable technique with a masterful balance of ingredients and flavors. Additional charge applies.
Crown Grill
Timeless Steakhouse Traditions: With a rich wood décor and a theater-style kitchen, it’s no wonder Crown Grill was named among the “Best Cruise Ship Steakhouses” by USA TODAY. Featuring premium aged beef and fresh seafood items, this specialty restaurant offers an intimate dining experience in a classically elegant setting and an open kitchen where chefs prepare and cook to order top-quality cuts of beef, chops and seafood. Additional charge applies.
Chef's Table Lumiere
An extraordinary treat for both gastronomes and gourmet novices, the Chef’s Table Lumiere is a perfect culinary journey for any special occasion. Join a select group of guests for a behind-the-scenes galley tour with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, followed by an extravagant multi-course dinner created and hosted by the ship’s executive chef. Perfect for celebrating an anniversary or milestone, or just making your cruise vacation even more amazing. Limited capacity, reservations required. Additional charge applies.
Ocean Terrace
The Ocean Terrace seafood bar is ideal for those who love to feast on the bounty from the sea. This stylish bar offers an array of ocean treasures, including a flight of oyster shooters, sushi and sashimi, ahi tuna poke, king crab cocktail, chili and lime crab margarita, a royal lobster dish, and the world-renowned smoked Balik salmon, the salmon of the tsars. A la carte pricing makes it easy to pick and choose. Additional charge applies. Menu items may vary by ship and are subject to change.
Ultimate Balcony Dining
Choose a luxurious breakfast or experience the “ultimate” romantic dinner at sea: a sumptuous multi-course meal, including succulent lobster tail and juicy steak, your beverage of choice, hors d’oeuvres, all served right on the privacy of your own balcony by our dedicated waitstaff. Treat yourself to this unparalleled indulgence and savor food, views and memories that will never be forgotten. Additional charges apply.
Lobster & Dim Sum Bar
his relaxed al fresco eatery on deck is the place to indulge in Grilled Lobster, Kung Pao Lobster or Salt & Pepper Lobster, all served with hearty sides. For an additional treat or an afternoon snack, you can also choose from three different varieties of delectable Dim Sum. Additional charge applies
24-hr Room Service
Princess offer 24-hour complimentary room service when you want to enjoy a quiet moment in your cabin eating a delicious club sandwich or maybe that slice of chocolate fudge cake you can’t forget. Treat yourself to breakfast in bed, or stay in for an intimate dinner, and perhaps even cocktails, in the comfort of your stateroom. 24-hour room service is just a phone call away. Charges apply on select menu items.
- Hollywood Conservatory
- Hollywood Pool at Night
- Hollywood Pool Club
- Piazza Atrium
- Movies Under the Stars
- Original Musical Productions
- Princess Live
- Sing On The Sea Karaoke
- Theater
- Watercolor Fantasy Show
- The Beach House
- The Lodge
- The Treehouse
- Lotus Spa
- Duty-free Boutiques
- Gallery
- Vegas Style Casino
- Pool Deck
- Fitness Center
- Sports Central
- The Seawalk
Adults Only Area
Hollywood Conservatory
Stroll through our new indoor garden located 150 feet above the sparkling ocean. You're welcomed by the sound of chirping birds, a lush garden environment and plush resort furniture. Listen to intimate musical performances by live musicians, and play a game of chess using life-sized pieces. A Wishing Wall, the first of its kind at sea, allows guests to share their dreams on a mosaic tile wall.
Hollywood Pool Club
This covered pool offers a Hollywood chic-style environment day and night, year-round, surrounded by comfortable loungers, modern sculptures and topiaries. By day, relax in the freshwater pool or soak in the steaming hot tubs — the glass dome keeps both the water and the environment comfortable despite outside weather. By night, the pool transforms into a luxurious nightclub, with a top-quality sound system and atmospheric lighting.
Bars and Lounges
There’s a bar or lounge for just about every mood, each offering a wide array of colorful cocktails, cold brews, stellar wines and more. Tropical and refreshing or complex and ethereal, the spectacular creations prepared by Princess mixologists are celebrated by cocktail aficionados on cruises around the world. Explore a variety of refreshingly different tastes while watching a sunset or dancing to the latest tunes.
- Bellini's - Italian inspired cocktails
- Ocean Terrace Juice Bar
- Fountain Pool Bar
- Wake View Bar
- Leaves Tea bar
- SeaView Bar
Piazza Atrium
The inviting piazza-style grand Atrium shines as the stunning centerpiece of each ship, the epicenter of luxury, excitement and fun. Stop by anytime, day or night, to find musicians, jugglers, acrobats, food carvers and a variety of other performers. Soaring multi-stories with a circular marble floor, stained-glass dome and magnificent floating staircase, the Italian-inspired Atrium is an ideal setting for relaxation, people-watching or simply having a cocktail or coffee with a friend.
Entertainment - Shows and Performances
Theatre
Broadway-Style Productions At Sea - With dazzling stage sets, artists from around the globe, modern hits and timeless classics, the Princess Theater, our largest theater yet, showcases lavish, original productions with dynamic cast members in sumptuous surroundings. In this ultramodern theater, relax in a plush seat with unobstructed sight lines as the velvet curtain goes up, a state-of-the-art lighting system illuminates the stage, and it’s on with the show!
Crafted by some of the world’s top directors and choreographers, our remarkable and dynamic Princess productions transport you to realms as exotic as the destinations we visit. Imaginative shows created in-house feature dazzling stage sets, Broadway classics, popular hits and original numbers performed by some of the largest and most talented casts at sea.
Featured Guest Entertainers
Grab a seat, order a cocktail and be prepared to be entertained by our lineup of world class entertainers. From magic to comedy, singers to instrumentalists, jugglers to balancing acts and much, much more, we search the globe for top talent to be featured on our ships. So get ready to be amazed, entertained, mesmerized or just laugh the night away!
Movies Under the Stars
A Reel Treat Day Or Night! Throughout the day and night, our exclusive open-air poolside amphitheater is the go-to destination for feature films, thrilling concerts and exciting sporting events such as live football games. Cozy up under a fleece blanket in the comfortable lounger and feast on complimentary fresh-popped popcorn in the evening or delicious cookies and milk during the day, and enjoy that exciting car chase or mystery thriller on the giant screen.
Music & Dancing
When it comes to music and dancing we’ve got everything that your musical palette may desire. Whether it’s tapping your toes to cover bands, singing along in the piano bar, relaxing to classical strings or dancing the night away in the nightclub, you’ll be satisfied!
Princess Live
Lights, Sound, Action! Ever want to be part of a live television studio audience? Here’s your chance to be part of the fun or go behind-the-scenes of our onboard television shows*. Princess Live! provides non-stop entertainment throughout the day and each evening with interactive culinary shows, live concerts, and late night comedy and game shows. You can also see what it takes to put on a working television show, which airs in your stateroom. *On select sailings.
Sing On The Sea Karaoke
Channel Your Inner Rock Star - Sing on the Sea Karaoke boasts six private karaoke suites, each with its own unique color palette and themed décor. Browse a large selection of the latest, most popular songs in China, the United States and Europe. Each private suite accommodates up to 6 people, with comfortable couches, top-quality audio and video systems, and food and beverage service.* A great place for friends and family to gather for a memorable night! *Nominal charge applies.
Watercolor Fantasy Show
Invite everyone in the family to behold the sight of water as it comes to life during this dazzling outdoor extravaganza. Everyone will ooh and aah as the night sky lights up with a mesmerizing spectacle of water dancing to the sounds of music. While brightly colored lights illuminate the water, you’ll see a captivating show of waltzes, pirouettes and fountains shooting water up to 33 feet high all choreographed to music.
Kids & Teens
Princess Cruises Children's Clubs and Teen Lounges ensure our all cruisers, young and old, stay happy all day long
The Treehouse (formerly Pelicans) : Ages 3-7 years
Go wild in the animal-themed Treehouse. With a range of activities including: art projects, protecting the wildlife and takeing part ina Pirate night, your kids can huddle, create and discover all cruise long.
The Lodge (formerly Shockwaves): Ages 8-12 years
An outdoor based area, will engage minds and muscles. Build rockets, Scavenger hunts, miniatures Olympics and Mythbuster challenges are just some of the fun to be found.
The Beach House (formerly Remox): Ages 13-17 years
A contemporary surf-themed lounge, your teen will never want to leave. With plenty to do from video game tournaments, movie nights, dance classes and a VIP party they will keep busy or be happy to just hang.
Club 1820
A private secret society for 18-20 year olds - no parents, no siblings a secret handshake and code is required to enter
Babysitting
For your convenience, group kidsitting is offered in the Youth Centers. Kids can relax and watch movies or play games with their friends while mom and dad have a relaxing night out.
- For children ages 3 to 12 years.
- From 10:00 pm to 1:00 am.
- Charge of $5.00 per hour per child.
Spa & Salon
The Lotus Spa offers everything you need pamper yourself, from facials, scrubs and massages to body therapy, body wraps, and Botox and Acupuncture, including a full-service salon.
The Enclave At Lotus Spa
Luxuriate In Our Largest-Ever Thermal Suite. Open the door to The Enclave, home to Princess’ largest-ever thermal suite and a dramatic hydro-therapy pool with a cascading rain shower and therapeutic air jets. Relax on heated stone beds or soothing water beds. Features include: The Hammam – a Turkish-style steam bath, and from Roman times, the Caldarium –a light steam chamber infused with herbal aromas and the Laconium – a heated, dry chamber to help with purification and detoxification of the body.
Onboard Activities
Tax And Duty-Free Shopping
It’s no surprise The Shops are awarded “Best Onboard Shopping” from Porthole magazine year after year. On board, you’ll find a fabulous range of fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tissot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs. And everyday tax- and duty-free savings can add up to as much as 30% off suggested U.S. retail prices.
Fine Art Gallery
If you have a strong passion for fine art then stroll into our appointed gallery. If you have a passion for collecting art, then be sure to attend one of our art auctions. Our exciting Champagne Art Auctions give you the chance to view and bid on a wide range of fine art, including pieces by famous artists like Thomas Kincade, Wyland, and Michael Godard. There is no charge to attend these lively events.
Photo & Video Gallery
Our staff of digital photographers and videographers helps capture the highlights of your cruise including onboard events, ports and scenery for lasting memories of your trip. Our studio locations are set up in the Atrium each evening and all formal and casual portraits are on display in the gallery the following day. Please ask our staff about portrait packages, reprints and canvas reproductions of your favorite photos!
Internet Cafe & Library
Our Internet Café is filled with computers so it’s easy to access your mail account or browse the Internet for world news, sports and stock trading. Or bring your own electronic devices and access the Internet through our improved onboard wireless service. The Internet Café is open 24 hours a day. For those looking to absorb more traditional media, our onboard library is fully stocked with up to 2,000 books, many specifically tailored to your itinerary as well as the classics and best sellers.
Casino
From gaming lessons to the latest slot machines to prize tournaments, our Casinos offer fun and excitement. If you enjoy blackjack, or “21,” our tables play by Vegas rules and if you relish the challenge of roulette, we offer the American version. Our craps tables also let you take your best shot at becoming a high roller. Want to try Texas Hold ’Em? Our PokerPro® table shuffles, deals, splits pots and generates side pots instantly.
Pools
Take a dip in our sparkling freshwater pools and leave your everyday world behind. Unwind on a padded lounger and soak up the sun, catch up on reading, listen to music or dream of your next adventure on board or ashore. And what better way to relax and revitalize after a day exploring the world than a long soak in one of our whirling hot tubs. And don’t forget, there is always a server nearby to bring you a refreshing cocktail or favorite beverage.
Sports & Fitness
Lotus Fitness Center
The Lotus Spa Fitness Center offers fitness programs designed to help you maximize your wellness with Tour de Cycle, personal training and classes such as Pilates, Yoga, Body Sculpt Boot Camp, Results Based Training and TRX suspension training. The Lotus Spa Fitness Center also features state-of-the-art equipment so you can tone on your own.
Sports Central
Whether you’re serving up some friendly competition with the family, missing your sports league back home or new to the game, Princess Sports Center brings people together with shared athletic and recreational interests. Center Court is great for basketball, tennis, volleyball and badminton. There’s also a miniature putting green and driving cage for golf enthusiasts, ping pong tables, bean bag toss and giant foosball.
The Greens
Practice Your Putt And Play Like A Champion. Imagine playing on The Greens while surrounded by a beautiful blue ocean. Whether you’re a dabbler or a devoted disciple of the game, our nine-hole miniature putting course will put your finer golfing skills to the test.
The Seawalk
Unparalleled Views Of The Sea
A dramatic over-the-ocean glass walkway, the SeaWalk® is the first of its kind at sea. At 60 feet long, cantilevered 128 feet above the waves and extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship, it affords thrilling vistas of the ever-changing seascape. Just as the Captain can look through glass panels in the floor of the bridge, passengers can now share in that breathtaking experience. Across the ship, the SeaView Bar goes one step further with a glass paneled floor and drinks prepared during exciting shows with flair.
Ship info
Setting sail in spring 2017, Majestic Princess is the newest addition to the fleet and is a sister to Royal and Regal Princesses.The new ship will be based in China year-round and become the first vessel tailored specifically for Chinese guests incorporating a unique blend of international and Chinese features. She will be home-ported in Shanghai, carrying 3,560 guests for cruises to Japan and Korea, and will offer many of the special features that have made Royal Princess and Regal Princess so popular and distinctive.
These include a dramatic multi-story atrium serving as the social hub of the ship; the unique over-the-ocean SeaWalk - a glass-floor walkway extending 8 meters (28 feet) beyond the edge of the ship; special Chef's Table Lumiere - a private dining experience that surrounds guests in a curtain of light, as well as new venues and features developed for Chinese travelers.
- Vessel: Majestic Princess
- Year: 2017
- Cruising speed: 22
- Onboard Currency: US Dollar
- Passenger Capacity: 3,560
- Tonnage: 141,000
- 24 Hour Room Service
- 3 Main Dining Rooms
- Bars and Lounges
- Casino
- Duty-free Boutiques
- Fitness Centre
- Internet Cafe & Library
- Jogging Track
- Kids Club
- Lotus Spa
- Mini Golf
- Movies Under the Stars
Decks
Majestic Princess - Deck Plans
Cruise reviews
4 passengers have reviewed this ship
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"Majestic Princess 3 Day Cruise"
Absolutely loved cruising onboard the Majestic Princess, tried everything from the pool, food, entertainment, games, cocktails and spa. Couldn't have asked for a better getaway.
Charlotte L - Jan 2019
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Cruise code: 8002
13 nights
New Zealand Cruise
- Departing from Sydney
- Majestic Princess

Receive up to $85 onboard credit per cabin. May not apply to all cabin categories.
- TV for in-cabin entertainment
- In cabin safe
- Full breakfast
- Buffet or a la carte lunch menu
- Buffet or 4 course a la carte dinners
- Musical stage shows and entertainment
- Special guest entertainers
- Latest release movies (in cabin and on big screen)
- Choice of Bars and Lounges
- Fully supervised children's programs for ages 3 to 17 years
Frequently asked questions
Cruising is such a great value holiday as your fare includes accommodations, all main meals onboard ship, onboard daytime activities, and night-time entertainment including live stage shows. One reason cruising is good value is because you'll know what most of your holiday will cost before you go. Generally your only extra onboard expenses could be your beverages (though these are sometimes included on luxury ships), optional shore excursions, personal services such as spa treatments, and any purchases at the gift and duty free shops.
All your main meals are included on a cruise. Typically for breakfast, lunch and dinner there is an a la carte option (order from a menu) or a buffet option. There is so much choice available, and the food is excellent. However, your cruise doesn't always just include these 3 main meals. You can in fact eat non-stop for 24 hours a day if you like.
Most cruise lines also offer specialty dining as an alternative option to the main restaurants. There is typically a small cover charge for this. However, the food is well worth it, and the specialty restaurants are normally smaller and more intimate than the main restaurants so they make for a great place to celebrate a special occasion.
The entertainment on board comes in many different styles and formats but is always included in the cruise fare. In the evening there are shows in the main show lounge (except small ship cruising). Typically there are two sessions a night so, depending on your dinner time, you can always catch the show. The style of these shows changes daily. Some nights it will include all of the ship’s entertainment crew with a Las Vegas style production. Other nights there may be a guest entertainer or comedian. There is something for everyone.
The entertainment doesn't stop with the nightly performances. Each night the ship provides a newsletter detailing all the activities that will take place the following day. These activities may include dance classes, arts and crafts, table tennis, live music, tournaments, trivia quizzes, recent release movies, and other deck games and deck parties. The great thing about a cruise is that you can do as much or as little as you like. If your idea of a holiday is sitting back with a good book, you can do that. If you like to be entertained there is no shortage of entertainment.
One of the main reasons for a cruise making such a great family holiday is the “kids club” facilities offered on board, and they are all included in your cruise fare. Typically the kids clubs are broken into 3 different age groups - 3 to 6 years, 7 to 12 years, and 13 – 17 years. In these dedicated children’s facilities they are looked after by trained staff and the facilities are open from 9am – 10pm. Parents can check their children into the “kids club” whenever it suits them. Children love these facilities as it is “their space” aboard the ship.
NB Each cruise line has limited space on board the ship for children as the kids club facilities can cater for a limited number of children, and any child booked onto a cruise has access to the kids club. If you are planning on taking a cruise during the school holidays then you need to book early as the children's space will sell out. Also, while most cruise lines have kids club facilities there are some exceptions (not common) so you should check this at time of booking.
The chances are you will not get seasick. On a cruise most people do not suffer from motion sickness. However, if you are going to get seasick then it is likely to happen in the first 24 hours. If you limit the amount of alcohol you consume and activities you do in the first 24 hours you can reduce the chance of this happening. Another thing you can do is select a midship cabin on a lower deck. A cabin in the middle of the ship (midship) will experience the least amount of movement.
There are a number of other precautions/medications you can take, and these can be purchased before you travel at a pharmacy or health shop. Otherwise you can buy them on board.
The best thing you can do if you feel seasick is visit the ship’s doctor. They can give you an injection that will give you relief from your seasickness within 30 minutes. You have planned and saved for your holiday, don't ruin it by feeling sick. Visit the doctor for the injection and get it treated straight away. If you have travel insurance then you can claim this back.
IMPORTANT: A visit to the doctor on board will cost you money so we strongly recommend you get travel insurance before you depart on your holiday.
Terms and conditions for this cruise
Frequently Asked Questions
Shore excursions are pre-organised tours & sightseeing options that you purchase on board for when your ship is in a port of call. Every ship has a “Shore Ex” desk with qualified staff who can advise you of different excursions available, what’s best to do and generally help you with information on the particular region your ship is visiting.
Shore excursions can be booked on board your ship however some cruise lines allow you to pre-book and pay for excursions online. If there is a tour you really want to do then we recommend you pre-book it as popular tours do sell out.
Shore excursions are not compulsory, you are free to go ashore and return to the ship as many times as you like.
When you go ashore it is important to note:
You must take your cruise I.D. card (ticket) as proof for re-embarking.
The city or town you are visiting may not be close to the port where the ship is docked, cruise lines normally organise shuttle buses (at a minimal charge) throughout the day to and from the city centre.
You must return to the ship at the stipulated time as the ship WILL NOT wait for late passengers.
Tour costs vary depending on the activity, itinerary and inclusions. There is always a wide variety on offer for all age groups and abilities that can start from as little as $25.
Sometimes you can book your tour, when you arrive at your port, direct from the operator at a much cheaper price. However, this comes with a buyer beware warning. The operators used by the cruise line are trusted professionals so you will not be ripped off. Also, if something goes wrong on your tour, the cruise line knows where you are and will take the necessary steps to pick you up if your vehicle has broken down. In extreme cases they will even hold the ship's departure for you if you are late returning from a tour booked through the ship. They will not wait if you go direct through the operator, as they will not know where you are.
Unlike airlines, there are no luggage restrictions on a cruise. However you need to consider that you need to store it in your cabin for your holiday. There is plenty of storage space in your cabin but if you are travelling in a quad cabin you may want to impose your own restrictions.
NB It is important to remember that airlines have different luggage restrictions, so if you are flying either pre or post cruise then you may want to keep within their allowances.
Cruise lines around the world do not all operate using the same onboard currency. The currency varies from cruise line to cruise line with the most common currency being US dollars. P&O Cruises Australia, Carnival Spirit and the Sun and Dawn Princess all use Australian dollars as their onboard currency.
Cruising is a cashless society which means when you purchase anything on board you do not pay for it in cash. When you board the ship it is like checking into a hotel, you can either give a credit card imprint or the cruise line will take a cash deposit of approximately $300. You are then given a “cruise card”. Your cruise card is your door key (on most ships), has your dinner table number on it (for traditional dining), and it is used for making any purchases aboard.
When you make a purchase with your cruise card, it is swiped and a receipt is printed that you will need to sign. The cost of the purchase is then added to your onboard account which you settle at the end of your cruise.
Many cruises on our websites come with onboard credits. This could be from a special promotion that is being run by the cruise line or because of the relationship we have with the cruise lines that allows us to select certain cruises to receive onboard credit. The amount of onboard credit does normally depend on the length of the cruise.
If your reservation receives onboard credit we will confirm this with you in writing and then your onboard account will automatically be in credit for the amount we have confirmed to you. This credit can be used towards any onboard expenditure that is charged back to your cabin. It is important to note that if you do not spend all of your onboard credit it will not be refunded to you in cash so it is best you spend it all while on board.
Tipping/gratuities are a big issue for a lot of Australasian cruise passengers as it is not our custom to reward good service in this way. What cruise passengers need to consider is that outside of Australasia, the remuneration for personnel in the service industry is quite low. Hence, to keep up a high standard, employees have the incentive of earning additional income via the tips they receive. At the end of the day, how much you tip is up to you.
The most common way cruise lines suggest tipping, is that they add a suggested amount to your daily onboard account. You can choose to keep that on your account or you can ask the purser to remove it. This suggested amount is divided out amongst your cabin steward, your dinner waiter, your assistant waiter, your wine steward, and maitre d’.
Some cruise lines ask passengers to wait until the end of the cruise and they discreetly leave an envelope in your cabin in which to place the appropriate amount. Some cruise lines state that the fare you have paid includes gratuities. Some cruise lines ask that you pre-pay the gratuities with your cruise fare prior to your holiday departure.
Again, the amount you tip is up to you (unless it is prepaid) and it isn't intended to have a negative impact on your holiday. Do what feels most comfortable to you.
The rules surrounding where you can smoke on board a cruise ship vary from cruise line to cruise line. However, none have taken steps to ban smoking completely. Most only allow smoking in designated areas on the open decks. Many have banned smoking on cabin balconies as this poses a fire risk.
Many cruise lines have rules restricting you from taking your own alcohol on board your cruise ship. If you have pre purchased duty free alcohol the ship will take it off you when you board and store it away for you. This alcohol will be delivered to your cabin the night before you disembark. The same applies if you purchase it when you are in port. Any purchases made on board will also be delivered the night before you disembark.
However, Princess Cruises will allow you to bring a bottle of wine aboard which you can drink at dinner or in your cabin.
These restrictions were put in place to create a safer environment on board your cruise ship, where people drink within a controlled drinking environment.
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