|
|
Taking Care of Business :
PASSENGER IMMIGRATION FORM REQUIRED IN ADVANCE OF YOUR CRUISE
Each passenger is responsible for providing Princess with a completed Passenger Immigration Form (PIF). Please approach your travel agent for more information.
EXPRESS CHECK-IN
Embarkation is faster and easier than ever with Express Check-In. To qualify, simply provide us with your completed Passenger Immigration Form including the registration of your credit
card no later than 45 days in advance of your cruise. This will save you time and help us make your embarkation easier so you can start enjoying your cruise even sooner.
A Platinum check-in area is provided for Platinum and Elite Members of the Princess Captain's CircleSM. Have your documents or membership card handy when you arrive to the
cruise check-in area.
CASHLESS CRUISING
One of the best things about cruising with Princess is the convenience of being able to sign for all your expenses and have them charged to your stateroom. An itemized statement will
be delivered to your stateroom the night prior to disembarkation. By providing your credit card in advance, you are automatically registered for express check out. There is no need to
visit the Purser’s Desk to settle your account. We accept U.S., Canadian, British and Euro currencies, and travelers checks. Visa,® MasterCard,® Discover/ Novus,® the JCB Card,® Diners
Club/Carte Blanche® and American Express/ Optima® are also accepted. Those paying by Traveler’s checks or cash will be required to leave a cash deposit with the purser’s staff at the
beginning of the cruise.
Casino charges for obtaining chips and tokens in the casino are limited to US$1,500 per day, up to a total limit of US$5,000 per cruise and is only available if you have pre-registered a
credit card with the Purser’s Desk for express check out. For inquiries players should call 1-800-5CASINO (1-800-522- 7466). Please note that there is a 3% processing fee applied to all casino room charges and
cash advances. These advances are billed directly to your shipboard account.
TIPPING
During your cruise, you will meet many members of our dining and accommodations staff in a variety of locations as they provide you with extraordinary service for all your dining and
stateroom needs. Princess makes it easier for you to reward excellent service onboard all Princess vessels.
A gratuity of US$10 per passenger per day (including children) for dining and stateroom personnel is automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. Princess feels
certain you will find the services onboard exemplary and, should you wish to make any adjustments, you may do so by contacting the Purser’s desk onboard.
Note: A 15% gratuity is
automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.
Gratuities for other shipboard staff such as casino dealers and Lotus Spa personnel are at your discretion.
ETIQUETTE
Everyone at Princess wants you to have a great time on your cruise. So, to preserve a relaxed and friendly atmosphere onboard, we ask that you observe a few guidelines. Please note
that smoking is not allowed in the dining rooms, or any other food service area, or in the show lounges and theatres. Smoking is permitted in staterooms and designated areas. As a
courtesy to your fellow passengers, please refrain from smoking pipes and cigars in all public rooms.
Should you wish to videotape onboard during your cruise, please feel free to do so. However, please be advised that videotaping the onboard entertainment performances is not allowed
for copyright reasons.
We require that passengers use cover-ups over bathing suits when entering the ship’s public rooms. Also, jeans and shorts are not permitted in the dining rooms during dinner.
Children over the age of 6 months at the date of sailing will be accepted for all cruises except Asia/Orient, South America, South Pacific/Hawaii/Tahiti (not including Australia)
itineraries. For these exotic and remote cruising locations, children must be one (1) year of age at date of sailing. For those who are traveling with children, please note:
1) Entry into the disco after 11 p.m. is limited to passengers 18 and over. Be sure to check with the Youth and Teen Centers for special disco events designed specially for kids and
teens. Children under the age of 18 are welcome in the gymnasium, spa and Jacuzzi, and also in the evening entertainment show lounges, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
2) In line with domestic age limits, as well as Princess’ company policy, the casino, cash prize bingo and horse racing are reserved for passengers 21 years and older. Additionally,
only those passengers 21 years and older will be allowed to purchase or consume alcohol. For those whose age is questionable, picture identification may be requested.
DINING ROOM RESERVATIONS
When you book your cruise, your travel agent will provide us with your dining preferences. Should you need to change this request, please call your travel agent as soon as possible and
no later than three weeks before you sail. All requests for dining preferences and changes are considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please understand that it is not always
possible to accommodate dining preferences or alter seating arrangements once they are reserved. Please note that you may be immediately accommodated or there may be a wait.
Anytime DiningSM is a wonderful option that guarantees maximum flexibility and freedom. When you choose Anytime Dining you can stop by the dining room any time between 5:30
p.m. and 10:00 p.m. for dinner and request any size table. You may also make reservations if you like to dine at a particular time.
SPECIAL DIETS
Princess is happy to meet your request for low-sodium, low-fat, low-sugar, and vegetarian diets. In addition, kosher meals (frozen entrées only) and baby food are available upon
advance written request. Any other special diet requests must be authorized in advance by the Princess corporate office. Please ask your travel agent to advise Princess in writing at
least four weeks before you sail of any requests for special diets to accommodate medical needs or allergies. For Exotics cruises, please advise us of any special dietary requirements
at least two months prior. Please note that baby formula is not available onboard.
CELEBRATING A SPECIAL OCCASIONS
Anniversary or renewal of vows even more memorable. If you have your travel agent advise us of any occasions of particular importance at least 45 days prior to your departure, we will
set our “special occasion” staff in motion. You’ll enjoy our fabulous “extra mile” service.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
You will find many options for adventure and entertainment when you reach a port of call. You can opt for local sightseeing and shopping in the port city, or you may want to experience
more of what your destination has to offer. A complete selection of shore excursions from nature walks, snorkeling, visiting famous ancient sites and monuments, appreciating famous
paintings, meeting local families or enjoying a ballet performance and many other adventures are available at each port. Shore Excursions enhance your cruise vacations to create
memories of a lifetime. Please approach your travel agent for more information.
Getting Ready To Go :
CHECK YOUR DOCUMENTS IN ADVANCE
Each passenger is responsible for presenting correct and valid travel documents at cruise check-in. To assist you in your planning, we’ve provided you with a list of some important
items.
Cruise Personalizer
In advance of your cruise, kindly ensure that your name appears exactly as shown in your passport. If the name does not match, it is important that you contact your Travel Agent to correct this information. Also, verify your passport details and emergency contact information are complete and correct.
Passport Requirements
Many countries require that your passport be valid six months from the completion of your travel. Check your passport to ensure that it will be valid for this period of time.
Additionally, ensure that your passport contains blank pages for entry and exit endorsements and any visas that may be required. If necessary, allow sufficient time renew your passport
and/or obtain additional pages.
A valid passport is required of all non-U.S. and non-Canadian citizens for all itineraries.
A valid passport is required of all U.S. and Canadian citizens sailing on non-domestic itineraries including Africa, Asia, Europe, India, South America and South Pacific.
U.S. and Canadian citizens are not required to travel with a passport when sailing on domestic itineraries including Alaska, Caribbean, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama Canal and Canada/New
England. Please note, however, that a passport is the recommended form of identification and unquestionably proves your citizenship. U.S. and Canadian citizens not in possession of a
passport are required to present proof of citizenship. Acceptable proof of citizenship includes a naturalization certificate or a certified birth certificate together with valid,
government- issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license. Although recommended, photo identification is not required for those 18 years and younger. U.S. Resident Aliens are
required to present, in addition to a valid passport, a valid Alien Resident Card. On domestic cruises, ensure that your travel documents are valid through the completion of travel.
Visas
Verify whether any visas will be required for your cruise or cruisetour program. Visa requirements for U.S. and Canadian citizens are provided in the pre-cruise information letter with
this packet. All other nationalities are responsible for verifying visa requirements for each port visited during the cruise.
Inoculations
Information regarding required inoculations for your cruise or cruisetour program is provided in the pre-cruise information letter with this packet.
IMPORTANT: Visa and documentation requirements vary by destination and do change from time to time. Be sure to check with your travel
agent to verify current regulations.
DOCUMENTS FOR PASSENGERS UNDER THE AGE OF 18
In addition to proof of citizenship, all children must have notarized written consent to travel signed by the non-traveling parent(s) or legal guardian(s) if both parents or legal
guardians are not traveling with the child. This written consent must be presented at embarkation and accompany the child during his or her cruise. Children accompanied by only one
parent must present a notarized written consent letter signed by the other parent, unless sole legal custody has been granted. In the case of divorce, adoption or other circumstances,
the parent or legal guardian is required to present proof of sole legal custody of the child. The passengers may be refused boarding if they are unable to produce documentation that
the child may travel with the adults who are present. As these documents must be presented at check-in, please do not submit to Princess in advance of the cruise.
HEALTH MATTERS
We recommend seasonal influenza vaccinations for all passengers. Furthermore, you are strongly advised to seek advice from either your Primary Care Physician or an approved public
health advisory service to identify any specific vaccination or health precautions required for each port of call: e.g. World Health Organization (WHO) (www.who.int/ith)
or the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (www.cdc.gov/travel/). Some countries
strictly enforce certain health requirements. Failure to comply may result in the local authorities preventing passengers from going ashore and some may impose a monetary fine or deny
the ship entry into the port.
If you take any regular medications, you are strongly advised to carry these in your hand luggage and also to take extra supplies to cover any unexpected circumstances. If you have
received treatment for any significant medical condition please carry a recent report along with any pertinent information, from your treating physician.
Pregnancy: Princess cannot accept passengers who will have entered the 28th week of pregnancy by the end of the vacation.
PRINCESS ACCESS
Princess offers wheelchair accessible staterooms and can provide dining room seating arrangements to avoid stairs and raised areas. Just be sure your travel agent notifies us of your
wheelchair usage and any other special needs prior to sailing. Travelers with physical challenges should check in with the onboard Tour Office to ensure that all pre-reserved tours can
accommodate their needs.
In some ports of call, the ship must anchor and passengers must be transported to the pier via tender. Tidal conditions, even when the ship is docked, may also limit pier
accessibility. With your safety and comfort in mind, the decision to permit or prohibit passengers from going ashore will be made on each occasion by the ship’s Captain, and the
decision is final. Because we are not staffed with specially trained personnel to assist passengers with physical challenges, we recommend that you be accompanied by someone who is
physically able to assist you both ashore and aboard if necessary. Each ship stocks a limited number of wheelchairs, but please be aware they must be pre-reserved at the time of your
booking.
When bringing your own wheelchair, we highly recommend collapsible wheelchairs, as the width of stateroom doors varies from ship to ship. Should you require further information, please
contact your travel agent for assistance. If you need to bring and use syringes or other medical equipment onboard, we request that you bring a sharps
box and that you contact the shipboard medical infirmary for disposal instructions.
If you are traveling with a service animal, please be aware that Princess requires advance notice and that regulations may vary from port to port. Princess does not provide pet food.
If your service animal requires special food, you will be responsible for bringing a supply of such food for the duration of your trip. Passengers are advised to consult the local
authorities at each port of call prior to departure for the necessary documentation.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
To avoid having to pay customs tax on previously-owned property upon re-entry, U.S. residents should have a receipt for, or should register with customs prior to departure, their
foreign-made cameras, expensive jewelry, video cameras, radios, and other electronic equipment. Customs will issue a certificate of ownership so you can avoid duty and taxes upon your
return. For details, write to the Department of the Treasury, U.S. Customs Service, Washington, D.C. 20229 for a copy of “Know Before You Go”. Canadian residents can write to the
Customs Office, 333 Dunsmuir Street, Vancouver, B.C. V6B 5R4 for a copy of “I Declare” or can contact their local customs office.
REACHING YOU AT SEA
To provide greater peace of mind while you’re away from home, give friends and relatives the following information on how to telephone you. For all ships in the Princess fleet, call
1-900-329-SHIP (1-900-329-7447) from the U.S. or 1-900-565-2800 from Canada to bill your telephone. Calls can also be charged to a credit card in both the U.S. and Canada by dialing
1-877-656-7447. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Discover Card (not Canadian) are all accepted. The cost for each call is $8.95 in US$ per minute.
The 900 service can be used to call or fax the ship. Please include passenger name and cabin number to ensure quick delivery. Please note that the ship’s Communications Center is open
daily from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. ship’s time. You can also reach the ship by dialing +870 followed by the telephone number as listed below.
What to Bring :
CRUISE TICKET, PASSAGE CONTRACT, PASSPORTS AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Before leaving home, ensure you have all the proper documentation required to travel. Without appropriate documentation you may be denied boarding of your
flight or the cruise. All travel documents are your responsibility. Its terms and conditions apply to you and your
cruise or cruisetour.
In addition to carrying your cruise ticket, Passage Contract, passports and other required travel documents, we also recommend you bring your medical
insurance cards as well. Ensure you carry these items with you. Do not pack these items in your luggage.
CLOTHING SUGGESTIONS
You should dress for a Princess cruise the same way you would for any stylish land-based resort. Casual sportswear, including shorts, lightweight pants and
jogging suits, is the order of the day both at sea and ashore in hotter climates. We recommend that you bring a sweater or jacket for cool evenings. For shore
excursions, bring a sweater, a light jacket, or an all-weather coat, depending on your destination. Due to unpredictable weather, don’t forget a hat or visor
and a collapsible umbrella. Please be sure to bring proper clothing for visits to religious sites. You’ll also want low-heeled, rubber-soled shoes for
strolling on deck, as well as comfortable walking shoes or sandals to wear while exploring on shore excursions.
VALUABLES
We strongly recommend that you hand-carry all valuables and breakables, including jewelry, electronics and cameras.
ONBOARD ATTIRE
Princess has made it easier than ever to know what to pack and what to wear when you’re onboard. There are two designations for dress codes: if dress is Smart
Casual, passengers dress as they would for a fine restaurant at home.
Appropriate attire includes skirts/dresses, slacks, and sweaters or blouses for ladies
and pants and open neck shirts for men. A jacket and tie is optional. In the dining room, items such as cutoff T-shirts, shorts, halter tops, and jeans are not
permitted; shoes must be worn at all times.
On Formal nights, appropriate attire includes evening gowns and cocktail dresses for ladies and tuxedos, slacks
with dinner jackets, or suits for men. Princess offers formal wear rental on all itineraries; this can arranged prior to your cruise.
Smart Casual Evenings:
• Skirts/dresses, slacks, and sweaters or blouses for ladies
• Pants and open-neck shirts for men
Formal Evenings:
• Evening gowns and cocktail dresses for ladies
• Tuxedos, slacks with dinner jackets, or suits for men
Please see the chart below for a general evening attire schedule :
|
Cruise Length |
Formal Wear |
Smart Casual Wear |
|
2-6 Days |
1 Evening |
1-5 Evenings |
|
7-13 Days |
2 Evenings |
5-11 Evenings |
|
14-20 Days |
3 Evenings |
11-17 Evenings |
|
21-28 Days |
4 Evenings |
17-24 Evenings |
|
29+ Days |
5 Evenings minimum |
24+ Evenings |
Travel & Transportation :
TRAVEL PROTECTION
We strongly recommend the purchase of a travel protection program. For your convenience, Princess offers Princess Travel CareSM and Princess Travel Care GoldSM
which provides what is perhaps the most attractive combination of protection and flexibility available in cruising today.
Princess Travel Care includes Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection, which provides up to full reimbursement for non-refundable cancellation fees if you must cancel or curtail
your trip due to covered medical conditions or other specified causes affecting you, your immediate family members or your traveling companions.
Princess Travel Care and Princess Travel Care Gold also offers unique flexibility that many other programs lack. If you have to cancel your cruise for a non-insured reason - any reason
at all -you'll receive from Princess Cruises a future cruise credit equal to 75% (90% with Princess Travel Care Gold) of the normally non-refundable cancellation fees. Our Princess
Travel Care plans provide coverage for most medical expenses while away from home including emergency evacuation should illness or injury occur during your trip.
For just US$50 more, our Princess Travel Care Gold program doubles your medical, lost baggage and emergency medical coverage limits.
For those passengers who have purchased Princess Travel Care, please refer to the Description of Coverage that is enclosed in your pre-cruise package for more information or contact
the Princess Travel Care desk at Berkeley Care directly. Berkeley Care, the independent administrator of Princess Travel Care , may be reached directly at 1-800-453-4069.
Special note:
Princess Travel Care must be purchased before or at time of final payment.
Day of Embarkation :
CHECK-IN
In addition to your personal identification tag, please ensure you attach a completed Princess luggage tag to each piece of luggage before you leave home. The luggage tags are included
in your cruise documents. Also, please remove any old airline flight tags.
TRANSFERS
If you purchased Princess’ airport-to-ship transfer or a Cruise Plus® package, you will be met by an uniformed Princess representative at the arrival port airport. For domestic U.S.
flights, you will be met inside or just exiting the luggage claim area. Ensure you have claimed all your luggage prior to exiting the luggage claim area. From the airport, you will be
transferred to the ship or to your hotel. If you have not purchased your air from Princess, please ensure you provide us with your flight details no later than 14 days prior to your
departure date.
LOVE BOAT EXPRESS
This motorcoach service is designed for cruise-only passengers sailing to the Caribbean or Panama Canal. Those living in Florida can take advantage of motorcoach transportation to and
from the ship.
EN ROUTE DELAYS ON SAILING DAY
If you encounter unforeseen flight or weather-related delays on sailing day, we suggest you immediately advise an airline representative at the airport that you are a cruise passenger
destined for sailing that day. Typically, airlines are able to arrange alternative flights at the airline counter for passengers to continue with their travel to the point of
embarkation. Upon learning your new flight arrangements, we ask that you immediately contact Princess with your new flight information for our records. You may contact us toll free at
1-800-545- 0008. Please note that this special number is operational only in the U.S. and Canada. Princess representatives are available to answer this emergency en route line from
5:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m. Pacific Time Monday through Friday and from 5:00 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Pacific Time Saturday and Sunday. Our representatives will record your new flight information, into
your booking record. Please note: The above number is for emergency use only for unforeseen delays. If you have any questions regarding non-delays, please route them through your
travel agent. Princess is not responsible for any airline delays.
For sailings from Port Everglades, Vancouver, San Francisco, and Los Angeles harbor, you may obtain information and parking rates by calling these numbers:
|
Locations |
Phone Number |
|
Port Everglades (Terminal 2) |
954-462-7287 |
|
Vancouver |
800-665-0050 |
|
San Francisco (Pier 35) |
415-495-3909 |
|
Los Angeles Harbor (Pier 93) |
310-547-4357 |
|
New York |
212-246-5924 |
|
Boston |
617-918-6208 |
|
Princess Kids :
A BOATLOAD OF FUN
When you cruise on Princess you’ll find completely equipped Youth and Teen Centers. There’s everything from arts and crafts corners, games tables, movies, and splash pools to
Teen Centers with ping-pong tables, juke boxes, and all the latest video games.*
We even offer a toddlers’ play area, special outdoor deck area, splash pool, and video games. Teens have their own “Off Limits” special hideouts: Cyberspace, The Fast Lane, and
Wired are guaranteed to give them the time of their lives. In addition to all these features, kids on Grand and Golden Princess will also enjoy their
own deck space with a whale’s tail splash pool. And teens have a separate Jacuzzi and deck area just for them.
All Youth and Teen Centers are fully supervised by our staff of Youth Activities Coordinators.
Children are welcome on all Princess ships, but facilities vary. Pacific, Royal and Tahitian Princess do not have dedicated Youth and Teen Centers. However, when 20 or more
children ages 3 to 17 are traveling on Pacific, Royal or Tahitian, they will enjoy a varied schedule of supervised activities organized by a Youth
Activities Coordinator.
FAMILY CRUISING TIPS
Anytime Dining is recommended for families who want to dine together so that children may fully participate in the evening youth activities (starting at 7 p.m).
The dining alternatives aboard our ships allow parents the freedom to spend time with their children while they eat an early dinner in the pizzeria, in the 24-hour restaurant
offering a special children’s menu, in the stateroom with 24-hour room service, or in one of our many alternative dining locations. After taking their children to the supervised
Youth Center, parents can enjoy dining on their own in the elegant dining rooms.
Many shore excursions have been selected with family cruisers in mind. Discounted rates for children and “family-friendly” activities are available to make the most of your time
in port. Please see your Adventures Ashore brochure for details.
On embarkation day, the Princess Kids schedule for the entire cruise will be delivered to your stateroom. If you need more than one copy, please advise your Youth Activities
Coordinator.
Don’t miss the orientation and registration meeting on the first night of your cruise. You and your children can meet the Youth Staff and learn more about our exciting shipboard
programs.
HOURS OF OPERATION
Caribbean, Coral, Dawn, Diamond, Island, Golden, Grand, Regal, Sapphire, Star and Sun Princess Centers are open at sea 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; 2-5 p.m.; 7 p.m.-1 a.m for
children ages 3-17.**
**US$5.00 per child per hour group babysitting charge from 10:00 p.m.–1:00 a.m. for youth
passengers ages 3-12.
Caribbean, Coral, Dawn, Diamond, Island, Golden, Grand, Regal, Sapphire, Star and Sun Princess Centers are open while in port 8 a.m.-5 p.m. without charge. A
supervised, complimentary lunch service is available with parental consent.
Royal, Pacific and Tahitian Princess (Program available when 20 or more children are sailing). Activities from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m.; 2 p.m.-5 p.m.; 7:00 p.m.-10:00
p.m. while at sea. Activities in port are available from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. A supervised, complimentary lunch service is available with parental consent.
PRINCESS EXTRAS: CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER
In a cruise industry exclusive, this respected Los Angeles institution provides education and entertaining interactive science activities for children aboard Princess ships,
scheduled on most sailings. Young passengers will be enthralled with award-winning science programs geared toward their particular ship’s destination. Whale watching, coral reef
studies, building and racing sailboats, marine biology studies, and squid dissection are just some of the new activities that may be offered.
PETE’S PALS
Finally, youngsters who participate in Princess Kids events will take home a limited edition member of Pete’s PalsSM as a way to learn more about endangered species
in the areas in which Princess sails. Each year Princess will issue a specially designed plush animal - beginning with “Pelican Pete,” the program’s mascot - all of which depict
a species in danger. In conjunction, kids will learn about the plight of many such threatened and endangered creatures, including white pelicans, manatees, sea turtles and
pandas.
SAVE OUR SEAS
We’ve teamed up with a fun environmental program called Save Our Seas, created by the California Coastal Commission and the Center for Marine Conservation. Kids participate in
activities specially designed to teach them about the oceans and marine life.
PELICAN’S PERCH
Kids can make the most of their island adventure in this supervised play area on our own private island, Princess Cays.® This special playground is supervised by the shipboard
youth staff and provides a secure place for children while parents enjoy the many beach amenities and water sports offered. Pelican’s Perch is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
PRINCESS KIDS DINNER EVENTS
As part of the Princess Kids program, junior cruisers will also participate in two special dinner evenings designed for each age group. Younger passengers will enjoy dinner
without parents and in the company of newfound friends and counselors in one of their ship’s many eateries. For teens, one of the two evenings will feature a special evening
get-together in one of the main dining rooms, complete with photographs and a group night out to enjoy Princess’ many evening offerings.
CHILDREN’S TV PROGRAMMING
In addition to Cartoon Network** and Boomerang** Channels, movies and TV programs for children may be shown on the in-stateroom television and in the Youth and Teen Centers
throughout the day on Caribbean, Coral, Diamond, Dawn, Golden, Grand, Island, Sapphire, Star, Sun, Regal, Royal, Pacific and Tahitian Princess.
ADDITIONAL REMINDERS
Children under 3 are not permitted in the Youth Center unless accompanied by a parent at all times. Youth Center staff cannot administer medication, bottle feed, change diapers,
or provide meal service.* Private babysitting is not available on any Princess ship.
What's Onboard :
FUTURE CRUISE CONSULTANT
For your convenience a Future Cruise Consultant is onboard all vessels to advise you on future cruise itineraries, fares and incentives. Our Future Cruise Consultant is at your
disposal to book your next vacation with Princess. Come by to find out what special benefits you’ll receive for booking your next cruise while onboard.
PRINCESS CAPTAIN’S CIRCLE HOST
Each sailing includes a Princess Captain's Circle Host to assist with exclusive onboard events and membership inquiries.
PRINCESS PATTER
The Princess Patter is your schedule of daily ship activities and entertainment events. It's also your guide to shipboard services with hours of operation. The
Princess Patter is delivered nightly to your stateroom. Keep it close at hand so that you'll always know what's happening and where.
INTERNET AND E-MAIL ACCESS
Internet access is available on all Princess vessels through our onboard Internet Cafés and/or Business Centers. Use our state-of-the-art computer systems to access your
web-based e-mail account (i.e., AOL, Yahoo and Hotmail) or browse the Internet for world news, sports and stock trading.
Passengers who have an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as AT&T, EarthLink and MSN will not be able to retrieve them while onboard, as it is not possible to
access these accounts through the World Wide Web. We therefore recommend that passengers establish a Web-based account such as AOL, Yahoo or Hotmail prior to their cruise,
although this may be done while onboard.
Please contact the Purser's Desk onboard for information regarding the charges that apply for Internet services, wireless services* and the hours of operation, or if you have
any specific requirements.
BOUTIQUES
Shop our boutiques for the perfect gifts to remember your cruise vacation. We offer incredible tax and duty-free savings—up to 30% off of U.S.$ suggested retail prices—on
fragrances, cosmetics, jewelry, gifts, apparel, accessories, liquor and sundries. Our selection includes the finest brands. In addition to our everyday savings, we bring you
special promotions throughout the cruise. Once onboard, please check the Princess Patter calendar for times and locations of these exciting events.
ART AUCTION PROGRAM
You will have a unique opportunity to view and purchase pieces of fine art from internationally known artists via onboard auctions. Art experts are available throughout the
cruise to answer your questions about the onboard art collection. At the end of your cruise, Princess will arrange to have your artwork framed, packaged and shipped to your
home.
GROUP SERVICES
For group travel, Princess offers a number of onboard services to suit any organization. Meeting rooms and audio/visual equipment are available for conferences. Group cocktail
parties and activities can be arranged to follow work sessions. Speak to your travel agent or Princess Onboard Services Coordinator for details.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Photographs taken throughout the cruise by our team of professional photographers are available for purchase in our shipboard photo shop. For a truly special souvenir, have a
portrait taken on formal nights. Quality film processing is available during the cruise using state-of-the-art equipment. You will also find advanced digital imaging services,
memory card downloads, and CD burning services.
LIBRARY
We've stocked our ships with an extensive library, including contemporary titles in a wide range of categories as well as books related to specific cruise itineraries. You'll
find books on art, history, sports, travel, health and wellness, natural history and reference materials, and we have a fine selection of fiction and biographies. Princess
onboard libraries have collections of up to 2,000 books as well as internet stations and music listening chairs. Read your Princess Patter onboard for library hours and
other information.
LOTUS SPA®
Pamper yourself from head to toe with a Swedish Massage, or a Relaxing Facial. You'll find a full range of personalized spa and beauty services. The Lotus Spa® is open daily,
but we suggest that you make your appointments on embarkation day for an appointment time that works best for you. Advance reservations are available on Caribbean and
Sapphire Princess.
ROOM SERVICE
Call for personal room service at any time of the day or night. To have breakfast delivered to your stateroom, just fill out the breakfast card included in your stateroom
portfolio (one is also placed on your pillow) and hang it out at night on your stateroom door. For a full stateroom menu, please see your stateroom portfolio or call the number
listed in your telephone directory.
HAIR DRYERS
Staterooms on all Princess ships are equipped with a 110-volt, 60-cycle alternating current (AC) with standard U.S. plug fittings. Please ask your stateroom steward to check
your appliances for suitability before use if you have any doubts. All ships are equipped with an electric hair dryer in every stateroom.
IN-STATEROOM AMENITIES
The little extras you find in the best hotels—fresh fruit (by request), evening bed turn-down, chocolates on your pillow, complimentary shampoo, conditioner and body lotion—are
provided in every stateroom. Terry cloth bathrobes are available upon request from your stateroom steward for your comfort and convenience. For those of you who wish to enjoy a
relaxing drink in the privacy of your stateroom, bottles of liquor and stateroom bar packages are available for purchase at non-duty prices either through room service, from
designated bar locations, or through your Princess Gift Guide.
*Note: Wireless capabilities are not available on all ships.
We're At Your Service :
PRINCESS CONCIERGE SERVICE
We are proud to introduce our new Princess concierge service. Just dial extension 3463, and you can make reservations for any of our dining rooms or Sabatini’s, ScholarShip@Sea,
Princess Links and many other special services.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Exploring ports of call is one of the highlights of your cruise, and one of the best ways to do this is on an organized shore excursion. Adventures Ashore® is our program of
port information and shore excursions. Your Adventures Ashore brochure is included in your Pre-cruise Information packet and provides information on the ports of call and
available excursions on your cruise. Most tours are operated by local independent companies.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Many of our shore excursions have a limited participation and reservation forms will be processed in the order received, therefore we encourage you to reserve tours as early as
possible to avoid disappointment. When excursions are fully subscribed, additional requests will be placed on a waiting list in the order received. In order to process your tour
selections, we must receive your form by the closing date listed on it. Your tickets will be in your stateroom on embarkation day, and your tour purchases will be charged to
your onboard account.
TOUR OFFICE
A Tour Office with a Shore Excursion Manager are onboard each ship, ready to assist you with your tour purchases or answering port and tour-related questions.
POSTAL SERVICE
Since U.S. stamps are acceptable for use only within the U.S., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, the Purser’s Desk has stamps for most ports you’ll be visiting. Mail can
be dropped in the mailbox located at the Purser’s Desk.
PURSER’S DESK
The Purser’s Desk in the ship’s lobby is the place to cash travelers checks, buy stamps, mail letters, ask questions, settle your shipboard account and check Lost and Found.
MEDICAL CENTER
It is comforting to know that the onboard medical center is staffed by full time British registered doctors and nurses. In addition to twice daily office hours they are
available twenty-four hours a day in the event of an emergency.
Charges for medical services will be added to your shipboard account and you will be provided with an itemized account to submit to your insurance company. Remember, Princess
ships are registered in the UK and Bermuda. Check with your insurer if coverage applies outside the USA or purchase travel insurance that does.
TIE THE KNOT WITH PRINCESS
Your romantic journey awaits onboard our beautiful ships where your ceremony will take place in a charming wedding chapel at sea, a romantic port, or an exotic destination
Our “Tie the Knot” selections have everything from photos to flowers to wedding cakes. Just relax and let our expert wedding consultants attend to every detail while Princess
provides the ultimate “something blue.” Please call the Wedding Experience at 1-866-444-8820 for further details.
RENEWAL OF VOWS
Our Princess Renewal of Vows package includes a special ceremony complete with a bouquet and boutonnière, a certificate signed by the Captain, and a framed formal portrait.
Plus, you’ll receive a bottle of French champagne in your stateroom along with two engraved Princess souvenir champagne glasses. Choose our deluxe package and you’ll also
receive a champagne breakfast in-bed, two Princess robes, a special spa visit, and much more.
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Princess provides Catholic, Jewish and Protestant services on the following religious holidays: Passover, Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Easter, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur,
Chanukkah, and Christmas.
LAUNDRY AND DRY CLEANING
Take advantage of our onboard laundry service. All laundry is returned within 48 hours, or on the same day with our express service. We also offer dry-cleaning services and
self-service launderettes.
TV PROGRAMMING
Getting away from it all doesn’t mean being out of touch. Every stateroom on Princess ships has its own TV set featuring our multi-channel Princess Overseas Television
programming. We offer live satellite reception of CNN and CNBC everywhere in the world where satellite signals are available. Princess also offers children’s programs and an
onboard version of The Discovery Channel, as well as a wide selection of special programming. A movie channel, footage of Princess’ worldwide destinations, and live shipboard
features are also available. We also offer ESPN in our sports bars.
Exercise & Activities :
LOTUS SPA FITNESS
Whether you enjoy a brief respite, a bracing workout, or a full-day of pampering, Lotus Spa is dedicated to renewing body, mind, and spirit. The spa offers traditional hair and
beauty services, massage, sensuous wraps, and aroma therapies. The state of the art fitness center features a professional staff, weight and aerobic conditioning equipment,
sauna, solarium, steam rooms, and classes ranging from aerobics to Pilates to kickboxing.
TAKING A DIVE
Learn to snorkel and/or scuba dive with professional, fully-certified PADI instructors. Princess’ New Waves program is available on all seven-day cruises to the Caribbean. Under
the guidance of the New Waves staff, you can get your feet wet with snorkeling and scuba demonstrations, snorkeling classes and tours, and scuba tours for non-certified and
certified divers. You can even get a full scuba certification during your cruise.
AN AFTERNOON DRIVE
If golf is your sport, Princess can take you to the best places around the world to tee off. On Hawaii cruises, for instance, there are beautiful golf courses in every
breathtaking port. The blue waters of the Caribbean are complemented by as many as nine different tropical greens. And we also offer simulated golf at Princess Links on
Dawn, Sun, Grand, Coral, Island, Golden, and Star Princess; a nine-hole putting green on Caribbean, Diamond, Sapphire, Grand, Golden and Star
Princess; plus golf packages or opportunities for independent play in New Zealand, Mexico and the South Pacific.
PRINCESS SCHOLARSHIP@SEA PROGRAMSM
Now expanded to the entire Princess fleet, the Princess ScholarShip@Sea ProgramSM is the newest feature of our onboard entertainment product.
As “sea scholars”, you will be offered contemporary enrichment courses allowing you the choice to enhance not only your vacation experience, but also the quality of your
personal and professional life.
From wine tasting to financial investing to digital travel photography, you can choose from a menu of approximately twenty complimentary courses per voyage, six per sea day,
from four core topic areas including: Photography, Computer Technology, Culinary Arts and Visual/Creative Arts, and special topics. Expanding on the theme of Personal Choice®,
passengers can participate in as little or many classes as they choose. Passengers also have the opportunity to expand their ScholarShip@Sea experience as small group
instruction will be offered for pottery courses and ceramics, indepth computer programs, and more. Space is limited and group instruction courses are offered for a minimal fee.
Personal Choice Dining :
INTRODUCING A REVOLUTION IN CRUISE DINING
Welcome to a new dining experience in cruising. One that gives you the freedom to choose where, when, and with whom you wish to dine. On Princess, we offer you a variety of
choices. In fact, on some ships we offer up to nine different dining options to choose from. And, more importantly, you can select a seating option that’s based on your
schedule, not ours.
WHICH DINING CHOICE DO YOU PREFER?
In our main dining rooms, we offer two options for dinner: Traditional Fixed Seating and Anytime DiningSM. If you enjoy the traditional option of having the same
table partners and waiters throughout your cruise, select Traditional Fixed Seating. This dining option features award winning Princess cuisine and offers a choice of two
seating times, 6:30 p.m. or 8:30 p.m.
When you select Anytime Dining, you choose your dining style–whether you prefer to dine alone or with newfound friends–anytime between 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. This option features
the same award winning cuisine as our Traditional Fixed Seating. You may also call our onboard dining hotline (3463)* between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. to further assist you with
your dining preferences, alternative dining options and reservations.
Whichever dining option you choose, you’ll enjoy the same delectable menus and follow the same dress code in our dining rooms each night. Traditional Fixed Seating or Anytime
Dining? The choice is yours. Simply let your travel agent know your preference when you book your cruise.
Please note: Once onboard, and based on availability, passengers can switch from
Traditional Fixed Seating to Anytime Dining with 24 hours notice.
* Dining hotline may be different for Caribbean, Diamond and Sapphire Princess. Please check your stateroom portfolio once onboard.
WANT MORE PLACES TO DINE OR SNACK?
Princess’ Personal Choice Dining gives you the opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a variety of locations throughout the ship. Depending on which vessel you
choose, you’ll find as many as nine different places to dine - from an on-deck hamburger grill, pizzeria to a late-night bistro, as well as 24-hour room service. Try cruising’s
first Sterling Steakhouse,* or the Bayou Café,* a cajun themed restaurant or Sabatini’s,* an authentic Italian Trattoria
*A cover charge applies in alternative dining venues. Please note: These
restaurants are very popular with passengers and reservations should be made early in the cruise. Alternative dining venues vary by ship.
HOW ARE GRATUITIES HANDLED?
For your convenience, the recommended standard gratuity of US$10 per passenger, per day for dining and stateroom personnel is automatically added to your shipboard account.
Princess feels certain you will find the services onboard exemplary. And, should you wish to make any adjustments, you may do so by contacting the Purser’s Desk onboard.
ARE THERE ANY ADDITIONAL FEES?
A cover charge, ranging from US$10 to US$20 per person, may apply at any one of our alternative dining venues. Prices may vary and are subject to change without notice.
Please note: A 15% gratuity is automatically added to your bar account.
AFTERNOON TEA
Enjoy the time-honored custom of afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, cookies, music and white glove service. It’s the perfect interlude between sunning and
swimming out on deck and a star-studded evening at sea. Enjoy your choice of a wide selection of premium teas— from Earl Grey to your favorite herbal infusion. And of course
there’s coffee if you prefer. The choice is up to you.
ONBOARD EVENTS
What could be more fun than throwing a party at sea, especially when you have Princess to do all the work? We’ll arrange for the invitations, mix the cocktails, and pour the
wine or champagne. Our chef will even prepare a selection of your favorite hot or cold hors d’oeuvres. Just contact the Purser’s Desk to plan all the details.
SMOKE-FREE DINING
To enhance your dining experience, we have established a smoke-free dining policy. For your convenience we offer other smoking areas throughout the ship.
ALCOHOL POLICY
Passengers under 21 years of age are not permitted to purchase or consume alcohol onboard a Princess vessel. Duty-free alcohol is available for purchase from our onboard gift
shop, where it may be picked up on the last day of your cruise.
Alcohol purchased at any port of call, including the port of embarkation, may not be consumed onboard. It will be collected at the gangway for safekeeping and delivered to your
stateroom on the last day of your cruise, prior to your disembarkation. You may bring wine or champagne onboard to celebrate special occasions. If consumed in the dining rooms
or alternative restaurants, each bottle will be subject to a US$10 corkage fee.
Entertainment :
LAS VEGAS AND BROADWAY-STYLE ENTERTAINMENT
Every cruise of seven days or longer features as many as four different stage shows, most of which are written, costumed and choreographed exclusively by Princess. Curtain times
vary; check your onboard newsletter, Princess Patter, for show times.
DANCE DATE
Don’t forget to bring along your dancing shoes, because Princess has lots of dance venues and live bands to get you into the swing of things. We start early and finish late.
Just check your Princess Patter for the times and places to give your partner a whirl.
COCKTAIL HOUR
Kick off the evening with cocktails in one of the ship’s cozy lounges or bars. This is the perfect time to meet shipboard friends and swap stories about the afternoon’s
adventures.
FEATURE MOVIES
Every cruise features a great selection of first-run feature films for your viewing pleasure. You can catch up on all the movies you’ve missed in the theatres.
FIRST-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT, DAY AND NIGHT
You can fill every day with a wide array of exciting onboard activities, from paddle tennis to painting lessons. Take a galley tour, go wine tasting, sip from a champagne
waterfall, or join in games by the pool. You can even take a backstage tour or find your own place in the spotlight at our karaoke lounge. Ships filled with amenities and equal
in luxury to the finest land-based resorts—that’s what makes Princess the ultimate way to experience your vacation. You enjoy getting there as much as being there.
CASINO PLAY
Our casinos offer the most popular table games, including blackjack, roulette, Caribbean stud poker and craps. We also offer a full range of exciting slot and video poker
machines, as well as regular Snowball Jackpot Bingo sessions held throughout the cruise. Complimentary gaming lessons for slots and table games are held each cruise, along with
exciting tournaments. Please check the Princess Patter for our daily special promotions and opening hours. Persons under the age of 21 are not permitted to gamble or
remain in the casino. For those passengers interested in playing at our higher limit tables, please contact our Casino Department at 1-800- 5CASINO (1-800-522-7466) for more
details.
RAVE REVUES
In addition to our main stage entertainment, Princess features the talents of magicians, comedians and guest singers who’ll keep you guessing, laughing and singing along.
TAKING THE SPOTLIGHT
Princess also stars you, the passenger. You can kick up your heels at our Country & Western Party—bring your cowboy boots and hats and join the line dancing. Don’t forget
tropical wear for our Island Night* deck party. There will be limbo contests and games and calypso music for “dancin’ in the aisles.”
* No Island Night in Alaska |
Disembarking :
THE LAST NIGHT
Your stateroom steward will provide you with a disembarkation letter containing information regarding your departure from the ship. You will also receive colored tags for each
piece of luggage. Please put your name, home address and other information requested on each tag. Also, remove any old airline flight tags or embarkation tags. Passengers are
advised to hand carry fragile, valuable items and medication with them. Before you retire for the night, your locked bags should be packed and placed outside your stateroom door
to facilitate customs clearance and disembarkation. Make a final check of your cabin and stateroom safe for any personal items, as Princess is not responsible for items left
behind.
CUSTOMS CLEARANCE
Due to U.S. and local customs restrictions, passengers may not leave the ship until all luggage is off-loaded. With this in mind, we suggest that you relax in one of the many
public lounges to wait for customs clearance and disembarkation by pre-designated groups.
Customs and immigration inspectors will review with you the customs declarations form upon which you have listed all the articles bought in foreign ports or in the ship’s
boutique. U.S. residents returning to the U.S. are allowed a duty-free exemption of US$800 per person, which includes the cost of one liter of alcoholic beverages if purchased
onboard or ashore) for each passenger 21 years of age or older. Canadian citizens, when out of the country for more than eight days, may bring back up to US$750 CAD duty-free.
It is recommended that passengers keep their sales receipts handy for declaring their purchases. Food items should not be brought into U.S. ports.
On cruises calling at ports of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or American Samoa, U.S. residents are allowed an additional exemption of US$1200 when returning to the U.S.,
including four liters of alcoholic beverages provided you have the proof of purchase from the designated ports. Of your US$1200 exemption, no more than US$600 worth of articles
may have been purchased in the islands. Articles acquired in these islands need not accompany you but may be sent to the U.S. and claimed under your duty free personal exemption
if properly declared. Please note that family members, who live in the same home and return together in the U.S., may combine their standard personal exemptions. Children are
allowed same as adults, with the exception of alcohol and cigarettes.
For further customs information, we recommend that you attend the Cruise Director’s disembarkation talk given during the last days of the cruise.
DISEMBARKATION AND TRANSFER INFORMATION
Dock side, your luggage will be arranged by the color coded tags you placed on your luggage. On the majority of our cruises, you will be required to identify and clear your
luggage through customs. As you leave the ship, you will be directed by Princess representatives to the luggage claim area for your color group. As many bags are similar in
appearance, ensure you check each luggage tag to ensure you are claiming your own luggage.
If you have purchased a Princess ship-to-airport transfer or a Cruise Plus® package, you will be directed by uniformed Princess representatives to the transfer departure point.
If your friends or relatives are meeting you at the pier, please be advised that disembarkation may take up to 4 hours after the scheduled arrival of the ship in order to clear
immigration and customs.
EXPRESS CHECK-OUT
Princess offers quick and easy Express Check-Out service for smooth sailing from the beginning to the end of your cruise. To take advantage of this service, and if you have not
already provided your credit card number in your pre-cruise documentation or at embarkation, please bring your major credit card or personal check and your identification to the
Purser’s Desk during the first few days of your cruise. Those paying by Traveler’s checks or cash will be required to leave a cash deposit with the purser’s staff at the
beginning of the cruise. We will provide you with updates on the items charged against your account, including the gratuity of US$10 per passenger (including children) per day
for dining and stateroom personnel. You will be presented with a final bill on the day of disembarkation. If this bill is to your satisfaction, then everything will be taken
care of for you without another visit to the front desk.
Your Crew :
Our crew includes experienced and friendly professionals whose responsibilities range from navigating the ship to creating the day’s activity plan. Our onboard staff’s primary
concern is ensuring your safety and providing you with the best vacation you’ve ever had. To help you get acquainted, the following is an introduction to who’s who onboard:
OFFICERS
The Captain is in command of your ship and is your official host for the cruise. He is assisted by the ship’s officers and staff, who are organized into departments. You can
recognize an officers’ department by the color of epaulets worn on his or her shoulders.
DECK DEPARTMENT
The Deck Department, headed by the Staff Captain, is responsible for all the duties performed by the officers manning the bridge. These seasoned professionals are distinguished
by their black and gold epaulets. Safety and security fall under the jurisdiction of the Deck Department as does the maintenance of the ship’s appearance. Members of the Deck
Department paint the ship and keep the decks and swimming pools clean. In short, the Staff Captain and his crew are the people in charge of keeping your vessel shipshape
throughout your cruise.
ENGINE DEPARTMENT
The Chief Technical Officer heads the Engine Department and is assisted by the Staff Engineer Officer and Staff Electro-Technical Officer. Departmental responsibilities include
the ship’s propulsion system, climate control and power generation. The Staff Electro- Technical Officer deals with electrical distribution and the ship’s satellite and radio
communications. Engineering Officers and Electro-Technical Officers wear burgundy and gold epaulets.
HOTEL DEPARTMENT
You’ll recognize members of the Hotel Department by the white and gold epaulets on their uniforms. The Passenger Services Director is in charge, along with his Staff Purser and
First Purser. The Purser’s staff handles all of the hotel responsibilities for the entire ship—from stateroom, public room and dining room services to providing all food and
supplies for passengers and crew.
This department also includes a number of officers who don’t wear epaulets, such as the Maître d’Hotel, who maintains the excellent standards of service in all dining areas, and
the Executive Chef, who supervises all food production onboard.
ENTERTAINMENT DEPARTMENT
The Cruise Director reports to the Passenger Services Director and is also a senior officer aboard ship. The Cruise Director manages the entire Entertainment Department. Since
the Cruise Director and Cruise Staff oversee so many different activities, from evening stage shows to leading daytime and evening activities, their uniforms change to fit the
occasion. Cruise staff always have a gold name badge on their uniform so you can get to know them right away.
MEDICAL STAFF
The Medical Staff, headed by the Senior Doctor are on call twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week to provide medical care for both passenger and crew. This team of highly
qualified doctors and nurses may be identified by their red and gold epaulets.
C.R.U.I.S.E.® WITH PRINCESS
Service is such a high priority with Princess, we’ve developed and trained all our personnel in a 10-point service credo. Our C.R.U.I.S.E.® program stands for Courtesy, Respect,
Unfailing In Service Excellence and means smiling, caring people wherever you go. |
|
