Do mobile phones work on a ship?

Yes - some cruise companies have contracts with land-based phone companies while others have connect services in place and as a result rates vary. The connect services are switched off when the ship is in port so you will pay the local rate.

Are there laundry and dry cleaning services onboard?

Most ships offer a laundry service for which there will normally be a charge.

What is early or late sitting?

Generally cruise lines offer two sittings for dinner. Early dining takes place around 6.15/6.30pm while late dining is normally around- 8.15/8.30pm and you usually select your dining time when booking.

What is open seating?

This simply means that the passengers can dine with whom they like, when they like (within the dining hours).

What is single seating?

This means that you can choose when you want to eat (within the dining hours) and will have a designated table.

What is flexible dining?

Some major cruise lines offer flexible dining, which allows you to choose when, where and with whom you wish to dine, however reservations may be required.

What is alternative dining?

Alternative dining gives passengers the option to dine in a separate restaurant to the main dining room - often smaller speciality restaurants. These can often be á la carte and may attract a supplement.

Can I access the internet when onboard?

Most ships now have internet facilities with many offering internet cafés. . Almost all of the larger ships now come equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots so you can take your lap-top and keep in touch with the office or home.