FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Who can book the Easy and Accessible shore excursions?

These easy tours are available for all guests and are wheelchair accessible. This program is designed to provide memorable, enjoyable experiences for limited-mobility guests, seniors, and anyone who enjoys a slower pace, as well as their families.

How are the Easy & Accessible shore excursions different from other regular shore excursions?

Easy & Accessible excursions are unique in that they offer:

Completely step-free tour routes
Wheelchair Accessible vehicles
Shorter distances
Slower pace
Accessible restrooms with wide doors along the route
Professional and compassionate tour guides experienced in working with senior and limited mobility clients

What type of vehicles are used for the Easy & Accessible shore excursions?

Easy & Accessible shore excursions use accessible vehicles equipped with either a ramp or lift for easy wheelchair access.

How can I trust that these tours are fully accessible?

Our Easy & Accessible shore experiences have been designed and vetted over many years by world-renowned accessibility experts and by travellers with disabilities. Routes are verified and tested consistently to meet the high standards set by MSC Cruises.

How big are the groups for the Easy & Accessible shore excursions?

To make these tours more enjoyable, group sizes are smaller than regular tours - these are not large motor coach groups. For most tours, small accessible vans are used.

How will the guide assist me with my mobility needs?

The tour guides conducting these accessible tours have several years of experience in touring with limited mobility guests and their families. They are patient, compassionate and very knowledgeable. Please note that guides are not permitted to push wheelchairs. Guests in wheelchairs must be able to self-propel or have a companion push them.

What can I expect from my Easy & Accessible shore excursions?

Accessible shore excursions are authentic experiences, designed to limit the amount of walking, without compromising on the experience. If you are asking yourself: "Will I get to leave the bus?", the answer is "Yes!". While other tours labelled as "accessible" only allow you to see the destination through a bus window, MSC Cruises offers wheelchair accessible shore excursions that include inside visits to castles, churches, museums, palaces, and historic ruins.

How do I make sure my mobility equipment isn't too big or too heavy for the excursion?

For each Easy & Accessible tour, the maximum combined weight allowed (equipment + mobility user) as well as maximum equipment dimension allowed (height, length, and width) are provided in their tour description notes. Please make sure to carefully check and verify that your equipment respects the dimensions allowed before booking the tour.

In which destinations can I book Easy & Accessible shore excursions?

Currently, the Easy & Accessible shore excursion program is available throughout several Caribbean ports. You can see a complete list of destinations offering Easy & Accessible tours listed above.

When should I book my Easy & Accessible shore excursion?

We suggest you book your Easy & Accessible shore excursion at least 2months before your cruise in order to secure your space.

Can I cancel my booked Easy & Accessible shore excursion?

It is possible to cancel your booked Easy & Accessible tours up to 4 days prior to your cruise departure date.

Why is a minimum number of participants required?

The minimum number of participants is required to guarantee the tour to run at the individual price displayed on the website. In case the number of participants is not met, guests will be given the choice to book the tour for an additional cost, as a private tour. The individual price will then vary depending on the number of participants.

What is Alaska famous for?

Alaska is best known for its unspoilt nature and extraordinary wildlife. Think snow-capped mountains, fjords and otherworldly glaciers, plus grizzlies skulking around forests and channels filled with humpback whales. There are few places in the world like it - it has the biggest concentration of glaciers in North America (nearly 100,000), as well as the highest population of grizzly bears.

The state is also widely known for its invaluable Indigenous culture dating back thousands of years - discovering Alaskan Native heritage is a must during any cruise in Alaska, whether that's by visiting museums, watching traditional cultural performances or admiring intricate totem poles.

What to do in Alaska?

There's truly something for everyone on a cruise through Alaska. History buffs can brush up on the Gold Rush, foodies can sample local specialities (including Inuit ice cream), while those curious about culture can learn about the Indigenous peoples of Alaska and traditions like carving totem poles. Luckily, Ketchikan's Creek Street is a fine place to do all three of these things. Its antique boardwalk has a storied past and is now home to inviting restaurants and shops. Plus, it's also a top vantage point for seeing salmon, as well as being located right by some of the town's beautiful totem poles. See more at Saxman Village's Totem Park, also in Ketchikan.

More than anything, though, holidays to Alaska are all about the outdoors. Hiking trails are abundant, though Nugget Falls Trail is an easy and popular route near Juneau that stops at a huge waterfall. There are also thousands of stunning glaciers to visit, with Mendenhall Glacier both one of the most accessible and most beautiful.

It's also very likely that your trip will involve at least a handful of exciting wildlife encounters. Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, Tracy Arm fjord and Juneau all offer whale watching tours and chances to see all kinds of bears. It's also entirely possible that you'll spot sea lions, caribou, salmon, otters and bald eagles during your holiday.

What other countries are included in a cruise that goes to Alaska?

Guests on one of our cruises to Alaska will also get to enjoy the wonders of Canada, as our itineraries end in Victoria, the gorgeous and culture-crammed capital of British Columbia. The rest of the time is spent in the US, with all ships leaving from vibrant Seattle, Washington, before sailing Alaska's Inside Passage.

How long are Alaska cruises?

Most of our Alaska cruise itineraries last for seven nights. This is a fantastic amount of time to spend enjoying this genuinely magnificent region, as you'll be able to sail the Inside Passage route and visit some of the state's most popular destinations - all at a relaxing pace.

Where do Alaska cruises leave from?

Seattle is the only embarkation port for our Alaska cruises. As Washington State's largest city, it's got plenty to explore before you leave on your voyage. Take a ride to the top of the Space Needle - the iconic observation tower that dominates the city's skyline - or hop aboard the Seattle Center Monorail.

Downtown, spend some time browsing the stalls at the centuries-old Pike Place Market, get cultural at the Seattle Art Museum or cheer on the Seattle Mariners at baseball field T-Mobile Park. Seattle is also the home of Starbucks, and coffee-lovers should absolutely seek out the Starbucks Reserve Roastery for an awakening experience. Little wonder that we decided to start our Alaska cruises from Seattle.

What to pack for a cruise to Alaska?

Packing for holidays in Alaska can be a breeze - sometimes quite literally. Even though temperatures in spring and summer are thoroughly pleasant, there can also be some wind and rainfall, so you'll need to pack light layers, long-sleeve jumpers and a jacket or two - ideally including a waterproof jacket, just in case.

But don't let the mention of waterproofs allow you to forget to bring a sunhat and high-SPF sun cream, too. Good walking shoes or hiking shoes are essential, so that you can get out into the wilderness in comfort. It's also recommended to pack some more formal clothes and shoes for evenings, particularly Gala Night, where passengers love looking their best.

However, your most important item to pack for cruises in Alaska will always be a camera, allowing you to capture the breathtaking scenery and the once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters that surround you.

How much is a cruise to Alaska?

No matter what your budget might be, MSC Cruises has an option for you, as you'll see when you take a look at our Alaska cruise deals. Bring that dream trip a little closer and start planning right now - find the best Alaska cruise deals here our website.

Which ports do MSC Cruises visit in Alaska?

Our Alaska cruises from Seattle call at five different but equally enticing ports in Alaska. Ketchikan is known for its rich Alaska Native culture, including more than 80 totem poles, while Icy Strait Point in Hoonah is great for spotting wildlife and zooming down huge zip-lines. Gaze out at awe-inspiring glaciers and icebergs in Tracy Arm fjord, go hiking or discover local heritage in Sitka, or try whale watching in Alaska's capital, Juneau. All five places are enlightening, must-visit destinations on a holiday to Alaska.

What is the weather like in Alaska?

It's always important to consider the weather when booking an Alaska cruise. The sunniest and warmest time is from June to August. It's never overly hot, though, with highs between 15°C and 19°C. May temperatures are also pleasant - plus, this is often the month with the least rainfall. September is fairly dry as well, but also starts getting a little cooler, with an average high of 13°C.

Outside of these times brings shorter days and extreme cold in some months, demonstrating that the best time for your Alaska cruise is from May to September.

When is the best time to cruise Alaska?

Our Alaska cruises set sail between May and September, which are the best months to visit this northernmost US state. June, July and August will appeal to many thanks to their warmer temperatures. However, May and September are also fantastic months for Alaska holidays, as these times can result in quieter visits.

May is one of the driest months, so there's less chance of rain, and - happily - the chance of seeing wildlife is also increased. It's considered the best time to spot walrus, seals, whales, migratory songbirds and much more. September is mating season for many animals such as caribou, moose and muskoxen, while longer nights can increase the chances (without a guarantee, it should be said) of catching a rare glimpse of the glorious Northern Lights.

MINORS POLICY

INFANTS UNDER ONE YEAR OLD

CHILDREN UNDER 18 - 21 YEARS OLD

FAQ - CHILDREN & TEENS

1. Booking & Charges Related to the New Fee

I no longer want to travel on the cruise I have booked because of these fees; will I be able to change my booking free of charge?

Any changes you make to your booking will be subject to our terms and conditions.

Is this fee refundable if a Greek port of call is skipped or canceled?

The fee is only applicable if you disembark the ship. If you do not leave the ship, you will not be charged.

2. Payment Logistics & Billing

Can I pay the fee in advance before I travel or when I first get on the ship?

The fee will be added to your onboard account, only when you go ashore, so this is not possible.

Do I need to pay the fee if I have booked an excursion?

The fee will not be included in the cost of your excursion and will be charged separately to your on-board account.

Will this fee be itemized on our final onboard bill?

Yes, details of fees incurred, where and when will be provided on your final onboard bill.

3. Fee Collection & Use

Does MSC Cruises keep any of the money? Will the Greek government pay MSC Cruises for collecting the fee for them?

The fees will be collected and will be transferred to the Government as per normal procedures. MSC Cruises does not receive any financial benefits, and the cost of collection is the responsibility of the cruise line.

Will the money be used to directly improve the cruise port infrastructure?

These new fees are part of the Greek Government’s Sustainable Tourism programme and align with similar fees that apply to hotels and accommodation. The fees are designed to support local infrastructure, promote sustainable tourism development, and enhance the overall visitor experience in Greece. 3. Fee Collection & Use

4. Hypothetical Scenarios (Emergencies, Missed Boarding, etc.)

What if I am taken to hospital from the cruise ship, do I need to pay for every day I am in hospital?

This will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.

What if I go ashore and don’t make it back to the ship in time, will I be charged for every night that I am stuck in a Greek port?

No, it is a port fee and is not charged daily.

If I have to fly home in an emergency from a Greek port, do I have to pay the fee to go ashore?

Yes, if you disembark the ship the fee will apply.

What if the ship arrives late, is the fee the same? Will MSC Cruises offer to pay some of the fee?

The fee is a port fee and is not time dependent, so the full fee will be charged, no matter how long the stay.

What if the ship breaks down while in Greek port overnight? Do we have to pay to go ashore again the next day?

No, it is a port fee and is not charged daily.

5 .Fee Enforcement & Documentation

Will officials on the island ask for evidence that I have paid? Do I have to carry a ticket or receipt to show them?

Your cruise card will be evidence that you have paid the fee.

How will MSC Cruises determine whether we went ashore?

When you disembark the ship and your cruise card is scanned by our team, that will act as the record that you have left the ship, and the fee is due. This will be recorded against your on-board account and the relevant amount will be added.

6. Fee Calculation & Exemptions

Do I need to pay the fee when I disembark to go the airport/travel home?

Yes, fees will apply to all guests, including those disembarking at a Greek port to travel to the airport, as well as guests returning home.

Do I need to pay the fee even if I don’t go ashore?

No, the fee is only incurred when you physically leave the ship.

Do I need to pay the fee if I just go to the dock and don’t leave the port?

Yes, the fee is applied as soon as you leave the ship.

Is the fee charged per visit to a port or just once per port regardless of multiple visits?

The fee is only applied once, so you can make multiple visits to the same port on the same day without incurring extra fees.

I have an overnight stay in the port on board the ship, if I visit the port on both days, do I need to pay the fee twice?

The fee is charged per port, so it is applied only once, even if the ship stays overnight.

Does the time I go ashore matter, if I go ashore later in the day is the fee reduced?

The fee is a port fee and is not time dependent, so the full fee will be charged, no matter how long the stay.

Do I have to pay the tourist fee if I go onto stay in a hotel if I’ve already paid the cruise tax fee?

The fee applies when you first leave the leave the ship, your activity during the stay does not change the fee.

Is there any age exemption (e.g. under 2 or under 12)?

No, the same fee applies to all guests irrespective of age.

Are there exemptions or discounts for disabled guests?

No, the same fee applies to all guests.

For further details, please visit our dedicated page here

For more information, please refer to the page here

Laundry packages

Everyone loves the feel of freshly-laundered clothes and the convenience of a same-day laundry service. That's why we offer several Laundry Service Packages to choose from.
Click here to discover more.

Lost or damaged luggage & items: a quick guide

Lost Luggage

What should I do if my luggage is damaged or lost?

ON BOARD

If your luggage is damaged or lost while on board, please inform our staff as soon as possible so we can assist you promptly. Here’s what to do:

Go to the Guest Services Desk on board to report the issue.
Our staff will help you complete the mandatory Luggage Form, which is required to process any claim.
Once the form has been submitted, we’ll do our best to resolve the matter during your cruise. Depending on the circumstances, this may include finding your luggage, replacing damaged luggage, or offering appropriate compensation.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

If your luggage was damaged or lost during disembarkation, please follow these important steps:

Speak to a member of our staff at the cruise terminal. They will assist you in completing the mandatory luggage form. This document serves as official proof that the damage or loss occurred during your cruise. Without it, we may not be able to process your claim.
Send a copy of the completed form by email to our Customer Service team at customerservice@msccruises.co.uk, and don’t forget to include your booking number.

Important: If you have travel insurance that covers damaged or lost luggage, we also recommend that you contact your insurance provider directly, as they may offer additional support or reimbursement.

Additional tip: if your luggage was lost during a flight booked through MSC Cruises, please contact the airline directly, as they are responsible for handling any luggage-related issues during air travel.

What compensation is available for damaged or lost luggage after the cruise?

MSC Cruises may offer compensation for luggage that was damaged or lost during your cruise, depending on the circumstances and the documentation provided. The maximum compensation available is:

Up to £100 per item for damaged luggage
Up to £600 per item for lost luggage

These amounts apply regardless of the original value of the luggage or its contents.

What is MSC Cruises’ responsibility for damaged or lost luggage?

While we handle all luggage with care, MSC Cruises, its employees, and agents cannot be held responsible for the loss, damage, or theft of luggage or personal belongings.

Our liability for lost, damaged, or undelivered luggage is limited and fully outlined in our Booking Terms and Conditions, which we encourage you to read carefully.

To ensure peace of mind, we strongly recommend purchasing independent travel insurance, as this may offer broader protection and higher coverage limits for your luggage and personal items.

Lost Items

How can I report a lost item?

ON BOARD

If you lose an item during your cruise, please notify us as soon as possible so we can assist you.

What to do:

Visit the Guest Services Desk on board to report the missing item.
Our staff will assist you in completing the mandatory Lost Items Form, which is required to initiate a search.
Once the form is submitted, we’ll do our best to locate your item before the end of your cruise. If it is found, a member of our staff will contact you directly.

AFTER YOUR CRUISE

If you have already disembarked and realize that you’ve forgotten something on board, please follow the steps below based on your cruise region:

For cruises in the USA:

Complete the online Lost & Found form available here https://www.msclostandfound.com.
After submitting the form, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a reference number to track your request.
If an item matching your description is found, a representative will get in touch with further details.

For cruises in other regions:

Please contact our Customer Service team by email at customerservice@msccruises.co.uk. Your email should include your booking number, a detailed description of the lost item (color, brand, distinctive features, etc.) and the location where you believe it was left.
After you send your request, you’ll receive a confirmation email. A representative will then follow up to let you know whether your item has been found and provide next steps.

Will MSC Cruises ship my lost item to me?

If your lost item is found, shipping may be arranged at your expense. The available shipping options and costs will depend on your location and the size and weight of the item. Once your item has been located, you will receive all the necessary details to arrange delivery.

Please verify the necessary visa requirements for your cruise here

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