Cruise holiday packages

• Pre-book your Shore Excursions, Drinks, and Added Value packages so that you pay for them beforehand in Rands rather than in dollars once on board.
• Pack as lightly as possible and use a small carry-on bag. Cruise cabin cupboards are not large, and by taking your bags as carry-ons, you won’t have to wait for your luggage to be delivered much later on the first day.
• Most cruises are casual affairs and don’t require more than a few summer dresses for women and smart casual outfits for men. That is, unless you choose a more formal cruise where you will have lavish Captain's dinners, and may require more dressy attire.
• It’s important to remember to pack swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen as you will be spending lots of time in the sun.
• Binoculars are also great to bring along, as you can use these when arriving at new ports and when cruising along coastlines.
• A useful item to take along is a small box of laundry detergent to avoid paying laundry bills.
• Take travel sickness tablets whether you get motion sickness or not, as local waters are rougher than those of the Mediterranean.
• Arrive at the port as early as possible to avoid the queues. Some cruise liners also offer priority boarding, which is a nice treat!
• Check out all the restaurants on board before selecting where you want to eat, as you don't want to overload on one thing when choice is abundant on offer.

We chatted with our travel experts and team members to get their advice on the cruise questions we hear most from clients. Check out their tips to help you get ready for your upcoming cruise! 🚢 🎉 

Q: How do I prepare for my first cruise? And what should I pack?
A: Research your ship and ports ahead of time. Cruise websites and apps are handy for planning – make sure you have the cruise liner’s app, especially on a huge ship, so you don’t miss out on activities. Pack essentials in a carry-on, as your luggage might arrive later. Also, bring basic meds like flu, stomach, headache, and nausea remedies. 

Q: Do I need to bring money on a cruise? What about tips?
A: Yes, bring money for drinks, souvenirs, and last-minute excursions. Prepaying tips is a good idea for a worry-free trip. 

Q: When is the best time to book my cruise?
A: The sooner, the better! Rates and specials are always based on availability at the time of booking, so it’s best to book as early as possible – ideally 8 months to a year in advance, especially for popular times like school holidays. 

Q: Can I eat in my room on a cruise?
A: Yes, room service is available, though some ships may charge a fee. But the dining rooms and restaurants are worth experiencing! 

Q: What’s your favourite thing about cruising?
A: Waking up in a new place every day and only unpacking once. The variety of activities, shows, and dining options is unbeatable. 

Q: Would you recommend a cruise holiday, and why?
A: Definitely! Cruises offer a mix of adventure and relaxation, with something for everyone. Plus, you get to visit multiple destinations without the hassle. 

Q: What is typically included in my cruise package?
A: Your cruise package includes accommodation, all meals, and entertainment. Drinks can be bought separately on most liners, but some offer beverage packages. High-end cruise liners might also have all-inclusive options where meals and drinks are covered. 

Q: What’s not typically included in my cruise package?
A: Beverages, WiFi, gratuities, and shore excursions are not usually included – though these can be added when booking. You’ll also need to arrange and budget for visas, transfers to and from your ship, and airfare to your starting and ending points. 

Q: In your opinion, what is a must-do cruise that everyone should experience at least once?
A: A Mediterranean cruise, especially the Greek Isles and Croatia. The ports are stunning, and it’s an experience you won’t forget. Another incredible option is a Northern Lights cruise, offering a unique and magical journey. 

Ready to set sail? Chat with one of our travel experts to start your adventure today!

Planning your first cruise or just need a refresher? Whether you're browsing local cruises, considering an MSC cruise from Durban, or dreaming of international cruises across the Med or a serene river cruise up the Danube, this guide has you covered. Understanding cruise lingo can make the booking process smoother and your onboard experience even better. 

Here are 17 cruise terms every traveller should know: 

1. Inside Cabin: A budget-friendly room with no windows or natural light. 
2. Outside Cabin (Oceanview Cabin): A room with a window or porthole offering a view of the ocean. 
3. Balcony Cabin: A cabin with a private balcony for fresh air and sea views. 
4. Suite: A spacious, upgraded cabin with luxury amenities and extras like concierge service or priority boarding. 
5. Tender Port: A port where the ship anchors offshore and uses small boats (tenders) to ferry passengers to land. 
6. Drinks Package: A prepaid add-on that covers a selection of beverages, such as soft drinks, cocktails, wine, and coffee. 
7. Specialty Dining: Premium onboard restaurants with menus and service beyond the standard dining options, usually at an additional cost. 
8. Main Dining Room (MDR): The primary sit-down restaurant on board that’s included in your cruise fare. 
9. Sailaway Party: A fun deck celebration with music and drinks that takes place as the ship leaves port, kicking off the cruise. 
10. Shore Excursion: Organised tours and experiences at port destinations, offered by the cruise line or third-party providers. 
11. Sea Day: A day spent entirely at sea, without any stops, allowing guests to enjoy the ship’s amenities. 
12. Cruise Card (Sail & Sign Card/SeaPass): Your onboard ID used as a room key, charge card, and for checking in/out at ports. 
13. Muster Station: The emergency meeting point assigned to you for safety drills and evacuation procedures. 
14. Berth: Can refer to your sleeping space on board (bed or cabin) or the spot where the ship docks in port. 
15. Cruise to Nowhere: A short cruise that sails into international waters and returns without stopping at any port. 
16. Per Person Sharing (PPS): A pricing term showing the cost per traveller when two people share the same cabin. 
17. Gratuities: Daily tips added to your account to cover services from housekeeping and dining staff; these may be prepaid or charged automatically. 

Ready to set sail? 

Book your cruise holiday package with us at Pentravel – the cruise specialists. Whether you're eyeing MSC, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Royal Caribbean (RCL) or other top cruise brands, we’re here to help you find and book the perfect itinerary. Our expert team offers the advice you need, from cabin selection to excursion tips – so all you need to do is pack your bags and get ready to cruise! 

Let’s make that cruise happen – get in touch today!