You're about to embark on an amazing cruise!

Before you set sail, this portal will serve as a guide to everything you'll ever need (and want) to know about your upcoming cruise. Over the next few months, weeks, and even days, you may find yourself reviewing the information quite a bit, so be sure to bookmark it for easy access! We'll cover everything from travel insurance, what to pack, shore excursions, port directions, and more. Happy sailing!

–Your friends at Our Vacation Center

Book your shore
excursions and save!

If you've received Future Travel Credits, apply them as full or partial payment on any future cruise booking.

A carefully planned vacation can quickly unravel when impacted with the unexpected - a sudden illness, flight delays or even natural disasters. We highly recommend that every trip be covered by an OVC travel insurance plan. Our plans are customized for the trip you booked, so you get the coverage you need for yourself and your travel companions. Help protect your hard earned investment by purchasing travel protection and get reimbursed for costly, covered events so you can relax and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

Cover 100% of your trip costs

When you insure your vacation you get Trip Cancellation coverage that can reimburse your prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs if you need to cancel for variety of unforeseen circumstances, including sickness and injury.

24/7 emergency and travel assistance

You'll receive access to a 24/7 hotline that provides emergency assistance and concierge services when you need them most—from medication replacement to getting tickets to the hottest show in town.

Emergency assistance and transportation

Our plans include coverage for medical evacuation, which can keep you from getting stuck with huge costs if you get sick or injured and need Emergency Assistance and Transportation on your trip—especially useful if you’re on a cruise!

Access to a virtual doctor during your trip

Generali Travel Insurance includes access to Teladoc, a service that connects travelers instantly with a network of U.S. licensed physicians for information, medical advice and treatment, including prescription medication, when appropriate. This service allows you to request a virtual visit with a board-certified doctor 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by web, phone or mobile app.

All Aboard: New Relaxed Vaccine & Testing Protocols
Many cruise lines are now welcoming all guests onboard regardless of vaccination status.

Visit each cruise line's health and safety protocols by clicking on the logos below for the most up-to-date information.

Life happens, even on vacation. Insure your upcoming getaway with Travel Insured International. Get USAA member pricing for travel insurance and additional assistance services for your next trip.

Why do I need travel insurance?

You're days away from leaving on a trip you've spent months planning. Suddenly, you have a family emergency, forcing you to cancel the entire trip. Maybe you fall ill while traveling? What happens if your luggage gets lost? Whatever your situation, you can help protect yourself when you purchase travel insurance!

When You Can Use Travel Insurance

Lost or delayed baggage
Trip delays or missed connections
Trip interruption or cancellation because of accident or illness
Medical expenses during a trip
Interruptions related to weather and natural disaster

Travel Insurance Benefits

BENEFITS FOR MILITARY MEMBERS

You can be covered if you must cancel your trip for deployment or reassignment.

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Plans and benefits are created with families in mind — they keep the kids, parents, and even grandparents protected.

CUSTOMER CONNECTED

You'll get excellent service and 24/7 travel assistance from professionals.

MEDICAL BENEFITS

Help protect yourself from unexpected medical and evacuation expenses while on your trip — even if your health insurance won’t cover you.

Get A Quote

Cruise ship passengers must pre-register for their cruises prior to arriving at the departure port. Complete your pre-registration online and reduce your wait time to board the ship.

Get a head start and register today!

Click on your cruise line and start the registration process.

Receive up to
$150 off your next shore excursion when you book a cruise with Club Points through Our Vacation Center.

Discover Your Benefit

Owner and Select Benefit Levels receive $75 in Shore Excursion credit
Executive and Presidential Benefit Levels receive $100 in Shore Excursion credit
Chairman Club Benefit Levels receive $150 in Shore Excursion credit

Step 1: Book your cruise using Club Points with Our Vacation Center.
Step 2: Receive your promo code credit (via email) for up to $150 off.
Step 3: Select an excursion for your upcoming cruise!

Don't delay - Shore Excursions have limited capacity and fill up quickly!

Shop All Shore Excursions

FAQ

What are shore excursions and why are they important?

Shore excursions are the activities offered at each port. These can be cultural, scenic, active & more! Shore excursions are the best way to maximize the value of your cruise as well as your time ashore.

Why book with us?

We make it hassle-free. Have your cruise and activities under the same reservation & in the same spot. Plus, get 40% off shore excursions vs. cruise line pricing, save hours of time waiting in line on board & secure premium time for excursions.

How do I book Shore excursions?

Click here

to browse shore excursions available for your itinerary! Have your cruise line, ship name and sailing date handy.

When should I reserve my shore excursion?

Now! Shore excursions should be booked at least 120 days before your departure day. While you can book shore excursions last minute, popular shore excursions sell out well in advance, so we recommend reserving your shore excursions as far in advance as possible. This will give you the best chance of booking your first choice in each of the ports. Pro-tip — plan shore excursions in line with booking your cruise and flights.

Why do you need to book ahead of time?

Shore excursions are selling out as early as six months before departure. Why? More & more cruise ships are arriving at port each day & the number of shore excursions available have not increased.

Shore Excursions like helicopter rides, culinary classes, marine life, etc., have thousands of people already booking them and there are only a certain number of spots and times available. Booking ahead ensures you are getting your top choices at the most optimal time.

How do I receive my booking confirmation and voucher?

Shortly after you reserve a shore excursion, we will email your confirmation which will include your vouchers as well as instructions on how and when to meet up with your shore excursion guide.

What do shore excursions include?

Shore excursions include transportation according to the itinerary, meals, refreshments, guides and entrance fees as indicated in the individual shore excursion descriptions.

How much physical activity is involved in the shore excursions?

The level of activity varies by shore excursion. In order to help you understand the level of activity involved in each shore excursion, we have created the following three categories.

Minimal (Easy) Physical Activity:
Only light walking and no major climbing required. You may need to negotiate a few steps.

Moderate Physical Activity:
A fair amount of walking is required, and you may need to climb up full flights of steps and/or negotiate uneven terrain.

Significant (Difficult) Physical Activity:
A large amount of walking and/or climbing is required, often over unpaved and uneven terrain. You should be in good physical health if you reserve one of these shore excursions.

Please refer to the specific shore excursion descriptions to see which category applies to the shore excursion. If you have more specific questions, please contact one of our Shore Excursion Experts during normal business hours.

How do I make changes to my shore excursion reservations?

If you need to make changes to your reservation or to cancel a shore excursion, please contact one of our Shore Excursion Experts during regular business hours and they will be happy to assist you.

Are there any age restrictions on shore excursions?

For most shore excursions, there is no minimum age for children as long as they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Guests under the age of 18 years are not permitted to participate without a parent or guardian. In some cases, an unaccompanied minor may be permitted on a shore excursion if a wavier is signed by the parent.

May I take more than one shore excursion in a single port of call?

Yes. In Alaska, please allow at least 30 minutes between each shore excursion. In all other regions, please allow at least 60 minutes between each shore excursion.

Am I expected to tip the guide/driver?

Extending a gratuity to your guide or driver is strictly optional but greatly appreciated by those guiding you through your shore excursion. A commonly accepted guideline is $3.00 USD per person for a half-day shore excursion and $5.00 USD per person for a full-day shore excursion.

CRUISE EXCURSION TYPES

Cultural & Local

Cultural Shore Excursions allow you to experience the customs, heritage and local flavor of the destinations.

Scenic

Scenic Shore Excursions provide up-close and personal access to some of the most spectacular natural environments on Earth

Outdoor & Active

Active Shore Excursions offer a multitude of exciting and adventurous experiences.

Water & Beach Activities

Water/Beach Shore Excursions provide unique ways to enjoy the ocean, beach and sea life.

Culinary

Culinary Shore Excursions allow you to sample the local culinary delights.

Shop All Shore Excursions

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First Time Passport Holder

Exciting! Your passport is your ticket to travel the world. To start the process, you'll need to fill out a form. After your form is completed, be sure to have your supporting documents nearby. Next, get ready for picture day! Your passport picture will last you for a while so be sure to brush your hair. (Check out this guide on How to Submit a Good Photo). Next, pay the passport fees. Here's a nifty free calculator courtesy of Travel.State.Gov. Finally, you'll submit all at once!

Here's where you can find the most up to date info!

Renew Your Passport

You may be able to renew your passport by mail! See if these steps apply to you.

1. Do you have your passport in your possession to submit with your application?
2. Is your passport in good shape (aside for a little wear and tear).
3. Was it issued when you were 16 or older?
4. Was it issued within the last 15 years?
5. Was it issued in your current name or can you document your name change?

If these steps don't apply, check out this resource.

How long does it take to get a Passport?

Routine Service = approx six weeks

Expedited Service = approx 2 weeks with a rush fee applied

What's a Passport Expediting Service?

You may have heard of private third party companies that help with the passport process.

For the latest info check out:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/get-fast.html

All cruise ships are required to file a passenger manifest with the National Immigration Naturalization Service (I.N.S) prior to sailing. The government asks for key personal information from each passenger including, but not limited to, names, gender, dates of birth, residency, citizenship and passport details, if applicable. The Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) is standard for all airlines and cruise reservations. Failure to provide this information to your cruise line in advance of your cruise may result in delayed or denied boarding without a refund. You will receive additional information with your cruise documents.

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Passport Requirements

Passport requirements vary by destination and your citizenship. Please review the section below to determine your passport requirements..

U.S. Citizens

On June 1, 2009, the U.S. government implemented the full requirements of the land and sea phase of WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative). The rules require most U.S. citizens entering the United States at sea or land ports of entry to have a passport, passport card, or other travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security.

CHILDREN: U.S. citizen children under the age of 16 will be able to present the original or copy of their birth certificate, or other proof of U.S. citizenship such as a naturalization certificate or citizenship card.

Groups of U.S. citizen children ages 16 through 18, when traveling with a school or religious group, social organization, or sports team, will be able to enter under adult supervision with originals or copies of their birth certificates or other proof of citizenship. See the Department of Homeland Security's website for more information on the changing travel requirements.

U.S. Passport and WHTI compliant documents:

U.S. Passport: U.S. citizens may present a valid U.S. passport to enter or re-enter the United States when traveling via air, land or sea from outside the country.
U.S. Passport Card: The passport card is only valid for re-entry into the United States at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean region, and Bermuda.

WHTI-Compliant Travel Documents for U.S. citizen travel via land or sea, as of January 31, 2008:

Trusted Traveler Cards (NEXUS, SENTRI, or FAST).
State Issued Enhanced Driver's License (when available).
Enhanced Tribal Cards (when available)
U.S. Military Identification with Military Travel Orders
U.S. Merchant Mariner Document when traveling in conjunction with official maritime business
Native American Tribal Photo Identification Card
Form I-872 American Indian Card

Please Note:

If your cruise requires air travel between the U.S. and the Americas, Canada, the Caribbean, Bermuda or Mexico, you will be required to present a passport when departing from or returning to the U.S. by air.

Even if your cruise does not involve air travel outside the U.S., should you be required to unexpectedly depart a vessel prior to the end of the sailing, a passport would be required to re-enter the U.S. by air. As such, all cruise lines continue to strongly recommend that all passengers are in possession of a passport.

Lawful Permanent Residents

Air Travel

All travelers including children must present a passport or secure travel document when entering the United States by air.

Land/Sea Travel

Lawful permanent residents may continue to present their Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card. More information available at CBP.gov.

Citizens from Other Countries

Air Travel

All international visitors regardless of country of origin must present a passport or secure document when entering the United States by air.

Land/Sea Travel

Canadian Citizens - Beginning June 1, 2009

Canadian citizens will need to present a single document that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). See the WHTI Program for more information.

Bermudian Citizens - Beginning June 1, 2009

Bermudian citizens will need to present a single document that complies with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). See the WHTI Program for more information.

Mexican Citizens - Mexican citizens, including children, must present a passport with a non-immigrant visa or a laser visa border crossing card.

Document requirements for most Mexican citizens, including children entering the United States, do not change under WHTI. See the WHTI Program for more information.
US-VISIT biometric procedures may apply to some Mexican citizens. Find out how US-VISIT works.

All Others

Visa Waiver Program | Homeland Security (dhs.gov): International travelers entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program need to present an e-Passport if their passport was issued on or after October 26, 2006.
US-VISIT: Entry and exit process for visitors requiring a visa, using biometrics such as digital fingerscans and digital photographs, to ensure the person crossing the U.S. border is the same person who received the visa.
ESTA: Internet-based Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to screen Visa Waiver Program (VWP) applicants prior to traveling to the United States.
e-Passports: The United States requires that travelers entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program have an e-Passport if their passport was issued on or after October 26, 2006.
Travel For Non-U.S. Citizens: (CBP) Information for visitors to the United States that are visiting for the purpose of working, studying, business travel or immigration.

ALL TRAVELERS

All travelers are responsible to learn of the documentation requirements for your vacation. If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you must contact the embassy or consulate representing the country of your citizenship. Due to changing security conditions, neither the cruise line nor ICE is able to provide complete information.

ALL DOCUMENTATION, INCLUDING VALID PASSPORTS, BIRTH CERTIFICATES, VISAS, ETC. IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE TRAVELER. You will be denied boarding by the cruise line without recourse for failure to present proper documentation and no refund will be given by the cruise line or ICE.

Non-US citizens traveling to Canada or Alaska

The Canadian government requires foreign citizens from most countries other than the U.S. to obtain a visa for entry into Canada. This law affects travelers on all cruise itineraries that begin or end in Canada, as well as those that make a port of call in Canada. Failure to present the required visa will result in denied boarding with no refund. To learn if Canada requires a visa for citizens of your country, please call your embassy or consulate.

Congratulations on your upcoming cruise! As you prepare for your Bon Voyage, we are here to make sure you have the latest information!

What travel documents do I need to bring?

Passports are required for all U.S. citizens to take a cruise aboard a foreign-flagged ship. Some countries on your itinerary may also require a visa for entry. U.S. Citizens traveling aboard U.S.-flagged vessels in Hawaii and Alaska can board the ship without a passport; however, valid proof of identity is still required.

Proof of COVID vaccination and a negative COVID test may be required, depending on your country of origin, destination & cruise line. Requirements change frequently - visit your cruise line’s website for the most up-to-date information. Links for each cruise line can be found below titled Cruise Line Health & Safety.

What is the COVID vaccination requirement and process?

Cruise Lines: COVID vaccine requirements vary by cruise line. Current cruise line protocols require a negative COVID test prior to departure. You can find health & safety protocols, including vaccination requirements, for your specific cruise line please refer to Cruise Line Health & Safety below.

Air Travel: The country you are flying to or from may have different vaccine requirements. Visit your airline's website for up-to-date information on pre-travel COVID requirements.

Online Check-In- Where/How/When to complete?

After your final payment, you will receive an email from your cruise line to complete online check-in. The United States Border Security Act requires cruise ship passengers to complete their registration prior to arriving at the pier. Please be sure to have your Booking ID ready. After your check-in is complete, you will be able to reserve onboard add-ons like specialty dining, beverage packages, spa services & more.

When will I receive my luggage tags and are there luggage limitations

The cruise lines have no limitation for onboard luggage. You will receive luggage tags with your cruise documents. Please complete them and attach the tags to your bags prior to arriving at the pier. If you have e-Documents or Pier Pick-up Documents, the porters at the pier have extra baggage tags and will help you complete them when you arrive.

Your baggage will be delivered to your cabin within 2 hours after you board the ship. It is highly recommended that each person brings a carry-on bag with a change of clothes, medication, sunscreen, bathing suit, camera, etc. to have until your bags arrive.

What is onboard dining like and when is it available?

Generally speaking, cruise lines offer a traditional dining experience in a main dining room with the option of two seating times. Early Seating typically begins between 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm and Late Seating typically begins around 8:15 pm. Some cruise lines may have other specific seating times & schedules.

You can order from a set menu that changes daily. For most cruisers, this is one of the highlights of the cruise experience and gives them an opportunity to meet new people from all over the world and develop a relationship with a wait staff who has learned how to cater to their individual needs.

Many cruise lines now offer alternatives to this more structured dining experience. This not only includes casual dining venues like buffets for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and pizzerias; but also, specialty gourmet restaurants offering Asian, French, Italian and Southwestern cuisine. Depending on your tastes or mood for the night, you can eat anywhere you want, including room service, which is available on most cruise ships 24 hours a day.

What is specialty dining and how does it work?

You can eat all you want on a cruise ship without having to pay for a meal. However, if you prefer to dine at a more intimate, upscale specialty dining restaurant, you can make a reservation for an additional fee.

These "reservations-only" restaurants are smaller dining bistros that cater to a limited number of guests every evening. They offer passengers a chance to break the normal routine and have a nice, romantic dinner for two without the kids to enjoy each other's company. Many of these specialty restaurants are comparable in quality to the world’s finest restaurants. The additional charges range from $10 - $20 per guest depending upon the cruise ship and the restaurant.

These restaurants book very quickly, so you should make your reservations as soon as you board your ship.

Do cruise lines offer dining for special diets?

Most ships can accommodate salt-free, Kosher, gluten-free, vegetarian, or other diet preferences. However, this request must be made in advance, so be sure to advise the cruise line of this requirement when you book your cruise.

What does a drink package include & are there any limitations?

Soft drinks, bottled water, beer, wine and spirits are usually not included in your cruise fare. Many cruise guests opt to purchase a beverage package to help lower the cost of onboard expenses. While inclusions vary by cruise line, most beverage packages include beer, wine by the glass, mixed drinks, specialty cocktails, soda, juices, nonalcoholic cocktails, energy drinks, specialty coffees and most bottled water. Limitations related to drink cost & gratuity charges may apply.

What activities are included onboard?

Cruise lines offer a wide variety of inclusive onboard activities and entertainment. Most outdoor activities such as waterparks & waterslides, recreational sports games and mini-golf are free of charge. Live music, game shows, nightclubs & select performances are also usually included in your fare. Larger attractions may have an additional fee and require reservations. Please visit your cruise line site to learn more about specific onboard activities & entertainment.

Do cruise lines include kid clubs?

Most cruise lines offer youth clubs for guests under 18-years-old at no extra cost. To have the most up-to-date information, check on the cruise line site to find any updates to kid club times/rules/availability, as these may be different by cruise lines and some cruise lines may not have those typical options available at this time.

Each program is organized by age groups and is supervised by certified cruise personnel. The minimum age for a child to participate in the program varies but is usually 2-3 years old and must be potty trained.

Please keep in mind that luxury cruise lines and specialty cruises may not offer facilities for families traveling with children.

Flight arrival and departure time suggestions

Due to heightened security and screening measures, it is mandatory that you arrive at port no later than 90 minutes (about 1 and a half hours) prior to departure to board the ship.

For cruises departing the continental United States, you should plan to arrive no later than 1:00 pm on the day of departure. This should provide ample time to collect your bags and transfer to the ship, even if the port is an hour from the airport. By arriving early, you are planning for unforeseen flight delays and increasing your chances of meeting the ship on time.

Return flights should not be booked any earlier than noon on the day your cruise returns. For airports that are longer distances from the cruise port, plan accordingly and ask your Cruise Expert.

If you are booking your own flights, we recommend you consider arriving a day prior to the cruise to ease any concerns of arriving at the port on time. This is especially recommended for travel during the winter months when weather delays are common.

COVID testing is not required upon disembarkation; however, depending on the requirements at your destination, you may be required to produce a negative COVID test before flying. In this case, cruise lines will provide tests to your party. However, if testing is not required tests will not be given for disembarking.

How do I get from the airport to the pier?

If you booked your airfare on your own, you are responsible for your transportation from the airport to the pier. This may include taxi and shuttle services to the pier, which is available at all major airports, or you may purchase transfers from the cruise line.

What is the process if I or someone on my ship tests positive for COVID?

Cruise lines are prepared to act quickly if you or someone tests positive onboard. To find your cruise line’s specific process, please refer to Cruise Line Health & Safety below.

Generally speaking – in the event you or someone onboard tests positive, the person will quarantine in their cabin. Then, contact tracing and testing happen. Anyone with COVID will be quarantined in their cabin until the completion of the voyage, or until they can safely disembark. Ships have tests and medical staff readily available onboard.

How can I reschedule my cruise and where can I find information about cancellations?

In the event you need to postpone your cruise vacation, we strongly encourage you to reschedule your cruise to a later date, rather than canceling. To reschedule your cruise, contact your OVC cruise expert.

To find information on cancellation policies for your specific cruise line, please refer to Cruise Line Health & Safety below.

Generally, cruise lines have a flexible cancellation policy, most offering refunds in Future Cruise Credits.

Cruise Line Health & Safety

Contact Us/Cancellations

Due to high call volume, we are asking all members to follow these guidelines regarding cancellation of your cruise:

Contact Us for Service on an Existing Booking

If you need to make modifications to an existing cruise reservation, please click here to email our Customer Service Department.

Please use your Booking Number as the subject line of the email.

Cruise Cancelled Due to COVID

If your cruise has been suspended by the cruise line due to COVID, there is no need to contact our office. Our Customer Care Team will reach out to you via email with your options.

Voluntary Cancellations

If you would like to cancel your existing cruise booking, please click here*.
*Please allow pop ups in your browser or right click to open link in a new window.

Your request will be submitted to our Customer Care Team to action.

If your booking is in penalty, we will reach out to you via the email or phone number on file with our agency to review your request prior to processing the cancellation.
If your booking is fully refundable, we will process your refund* and an email will be sent to you once completed.

*Please note: All refunds will be returned to your original form of payment. For example, if you paid for all or a portion of your cruise by using a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) from the cruise line or our agency, the portion paid with your FCC does not qualify for a cash refund. Instead, your FCC will be returned to your cruise line or agency account.