Passports
A passport is
required for all DIV Cruises’ guests and it must be valid for at least six (6)
months after the scheduled return date from your trip. Please ensure your
passport is valid and contains all required visas. Please check your itinerary
carefully and consult with the appropriate consulates to determine if any visas
are needed. Vacations may be disrupted or altered if the correct documents are
not presented at airports or border crossings.
Each guest is
fully responsible for obtaining and carrying the travel documents necessary for
his or her travel itinerary. DIV Cruises will not be responsible for any
delays, damages and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip related
to improper travel documents, such as passport, visa requirements, entry,
health or other requirements of the countries visited or for any loss sustained
by you for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements
of countries visited.
We recommend
photocopying the first page of your passport, airline tickets, driver’s license
and/or birth certificate to expedite the process of replacing any documents
lost while traveling. Keep the originals separate from the copies and pack some
extra passport photos as well. Another option is to scan your passport, airline
tickets, credit card numbers and other important documents and email them to
yourself as attachments.
Visas
If you are
citizen and passport holder of United States, Canada, New Zealand or Australia,
you do not need a visa to visit European Union countries if your stay is up to
90 days. All other nationals should check their visa requirements for each
individual country you are planning to visit during your travels. It is the
sole responsibility of each guest traveling with DIV Cruises to have the
necessary visas and to comply with entry, health or other requirements of the
countries visited. More advice can also be found at the Department of Foreigner
Affairs and Trade’s website. All guests are strongly advised to obtain
necessary visas well in advance of departure to avoid unnecessary expedited
processing charges.
Whenever using
a visa service, it is highly recommended you provide the service with a copy of
your entire travel itinerary. There are times when multiple-entry visas may be
required, or when there may be restrictions to entering one country from
another depending on your nationality. If the service does not have your full
itinerary, this may result in improperly issued documentation.
TSA Secure
Flight Program
The
Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to provide
Secure Flight passenger data when booking airline travel. This includes your
full name, date of birth and gender as it appears on non-expired
government-issued travel documents (e.g., passport, re-entry permit, alien
registration card, “Green Card,”
photo ID, etc.). Any missing or incorrect information can cause unnecessary
delays at the airport. If you have booked your airline tickets and have not yet
provided us with this Secure Flight passenger data, please contact our office
as soon as possible at our toll free number 1-844-377-5966 or by mail at info@divcruises.com
Airport Security and Check-In
It is advisable
to contact the airline in advance of your departure to verify there have been
no changes to the flight number or schedule. After your travel documents are
issued and sent to you, DIV Cruises is not responsible for notifying guests of
any changes in flight schedules.
Please make
sure you arrive at the airport at least two and a half (2.5) hours prior to
your scheduled departure to complete check-in and security procedures. For peak
travel times, you may even want to arrive three (3) hours prior to your
scheduled departure time. This allows enough time to check your baggage,
present your passport and ticket, confirm seat assignments and boarding passes
and clear security procedures before proceeding to the boarding area. Most
airlines offer online check-in 24 hours prior to departure, which can help you
avoid long lines once at the airport. Airport security regulations require that
sharp objects of any kind be stored inside your checked luggage, not your
carry-on bag. You may be asked to put your shoes and/or coat through an X-ray
scanner, so be prepared to remove them.
Baggage Requirements
International
air carriers are often very strict about the size and weight of baggage and
carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or visit its website for
specific requirements prior to your departure, as size and weight limitations
vary according to the airline and destination. It is also important to check
European domestic flight regulations as these too may vary. Passengers on
international flights are usually allowed one piece of checked luggage and one
carry-on bag per person. Some airlines limit each checked bag to a maximum of
62 linear inches (158 linear cm), which is the combined, length + width +
height and 50 lbs. (23 kg). Your carry-on should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches
(55 x 35 x 22 cm) or weigh more than 17 lbs. (8 kg). International air carriers
may impose fees for baggage that is too large or heavy and/or require you to
remove certain articles in order to meet weight restrictions. Please check
airline websites for specific baggage limitations for all your flights (both
international and intra-Europe).
Important: DIV
Cruises is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by air carriers. In
addition, during your cruise and when traveling by motor coach, storage space
may be limited and porters may decline to carry extra heavy suitcases for
health and safety reasons, so we recommend bringing only one suitcase and one
carry-on bag per guest.
Travel Insurance
We strongly
advise you to speak with your preferred Travel Agent regarding travel insurance
to cover any unforeseen circumstances. Should you get travel insurance, it is a
good idea to take your travel insurance documents with you and to make copies.
For your travel
insurance needs, we can recommend two possible choices for you
to explore, or contact your travel professional for
a recommendation for travel insurance.
https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com
https://www.travelexinsurance.com
Late or Missed Flights
If you miss a
flight, immediately advise an airline representative that you are a cruise
guest bound for a specific location/date/time to meet your ship. If your flight
is cancelled, await instructions from the airline regarding alternate travel
arrangements. Generally, airlines will do everything in their power to get you
on the next available flight. After your airline makes your flight arrangements please
refer to phone numbers listed in your travel documents and advise the ship of
any delays or changes to your schedule.
Delayed or lost luggage
Baggage can
sometimes be delayed or unfortunately lost during air transport. Pack a change
of clothing in your carry-on bag. Place a copy of the hotel and ship contact
information inside each piece of checked luggage as this will help the airline
locate you, should your bags be delayed. Please note, it is the responsibility
of the airline to deliver any delayed bags to you. First and foremost, do not
leave the baggage area without completing a Lost Baggage Report with your air
carrier. This report is essential to the tracking of your claim. If traveling
with a companion, we recommend one (1) person exit the baggage claim area and
locate your transfer rappresentative—whether you booked a transfer through DIV Cruises, Inc.
or on your own independently—to inform them
of the situation.
For
reimbursement for delayed luggage or missing luggage, you will need to fill out
a claim form at the appropriate airline desk before leaving the airport. DIV
Cruises is not responsible for loss, theft or damage to baggage and/or personal
belongings. A travel protection plan covering lost, stolen or damaged baggage
is available, so check with your preferred Travel Agent at the time of booking.
Check-In-Time
Onboard cruise
check-in time, as well as hotel check-in time, is at 1:00PM. However, for those
passengers who book pre-cruise or post-cruise package, when you arrive to hotel
earlier than check-in time, the hotel will try their best to accommodate you
before the official check-in time. Please note, this is not guaranteed service;
it is just the hotel’s good intention and willingness to help you
We endeavor to
ensure your staterooms are ready for when you arrive on board; however, this is
not always possible and is outside of our control. However, we will do our very best to
ensure your comfort while waiting for your stateroom.
Currency
Most countries
visited in Europe will use the Euro; although, some still have their own local
currency, such as Croatia, Albania, Greece, Switzerland, Russia and the Baltic
States. Croatia’s currency is the “Kuna”;
Albania’s currency is the “LEK”;
and Bosnia and Hercegovina’s currency is the “Convertible
Mark.”
For incidental
purchases ashore or in small towns, local currency is always advantageous. Many
locations accept major credit cards; however, there are often fees associated.
ATM machines are widely located and available throughout Europe. Prior to
departure, you should confirm your ATM card and PIN will work overseas. It is prudent to contact all your credit card companies
and banking card institutions to formally notify
them that you will be traveling; especially travelling abroad. If you do not notify these institutions your
charges may be declined by them for your protection against fraud.
Credit Cards and Travelers Checks
Most major
credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and American Express) are accepted worldwide in
most European shops, hotels and restaurants. Please make sure your credit cards
are valid for at least 30 days after you return home, and activate them before
you travel. Some places may require a minimum charge for using credit cards and
others may not accept certain cards, so we recommend bringing at least one
major credit card, as well as an ATM card that is both a debit and credit card.
As with your ATM card, we recommend informing your credit card company you will
be traveling abroad, so they can expect overseas charges on your account. It is
not advisable to bring Travelers Checks, as it is becoming increasingly
difficult to cash them at local banks. In addition, there may be some stores or
locations where cash is preferred or where a particular credit card cannot be
used for purchases.
Note: European
countries use chip-and-pin credit cards, so cards with magnetic strips on the
back (commonly used in North America) may not work with certain automated
machines. You might want to carry some extra cash in your wallet to use in
these situations.
ATMs
Our ships do
not have ATMs onboard, but ATMs linked to major bank networks can be found
throughout Europe. Most debit and major credit cards can be used for cash
withdrawals ashore. Your bank can tell you which network your ATM card can access
and whether a debit or credit card must be used. Make sure you have the correct
PIN for the card you plan to use before leaving home as the PIN is required for
all money withdrawals. It is also recommended you bring an overseas contact
number for your bank or credit card company in case you require assistance
while traveling.
Transaction Fees
Please note,
currency exchange transactions and ATM cash withdrawals always involve
transaction fees. It is always best to inquire as to the fee before exchanging
any money. ATMs will typically ask you if you accept the fee before enabling
the transaction.
Gratuities
Gratuities are
customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done, and it is our goal
to ensure the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. The
amount of the gratuity you choose to give is entirely subject to your
satisfaction with your travel experience. To assist you in determining the
amount of your gratuities,
We recommend
the following as a guideline for crew and local guides:
•
Ship
staff and crew: $15.00 per guest, per day to be shared among all staff and crew
• Cruise Director: $5.00 per guest, per day
•
Local
guides: $2.00 per guest
•
Drivers:
$1.00 per guest, per day
Guidelines for
onshore:
• Waiters: Fine dining restaurants waiters are always tipped up to 10% of
the bill. At informal cafés,
it is customary to leave the coin change on the table.
•
Porters:
$1 per piece of luggage
•
Taxi
drivers: 10% of the fare on the meter
What to Wear
Prepare for a
variety of weather conditions, depending on your travel season and the regions
you will be cruising through. Layering clothing is always your best bet, as
this allows you to adjust to any temperature, including artificially maintained
temperatures, by removing or adding items throughout the day.
Comfortable,
sporty, smart-casual daywear is appropriate both onshore and on board. Everyday
slacks, khakis, walking shorts for men and skirts/dresses and slacks are
recommended for women. For warmer temperatures, we suggest lightweight clothing
that can be layered, such as a mix of sweaters, lightweight knit shirts, slacks
and walking shorts. For early spring and late fall departures, you will find
sweatshirts, heavier cotton or wool tops and long-sleeved shirts and corduroy or heavy khaki pants perfectly
suitable. Mix-and-match color schemes work best to help keep baggage light.
You will
participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your
time ashore. We recommend comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support.
Sturdy sandals are another good option.
For evenings,
any resort-type wear is perfectly suitable; however, we do ask that you refrain
from wearing shorts to dinner. Men may want to bring one sport jacket and women
find a cocktail dress or two always comes in handy no matter the destination;
however, it is not necessary.
Don’t
forget to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) or even a
heavier-weight wind-breaker for colder temperatures.
Swim- and
beach-wear is entirely appropriate to bring as you will be visiting some of the
most beautiful beaches in the world. If you have sensitive feet, water shoes
may be a good idea to take.
What to Pack
Current airport
security regulations require any liquids and semi-liquids, such as lotions,
gels, etc., be stored in
your carry-on bag and must be in a container no larger than 3 oz. (88 ml) and
all items must fit into a clear quart-sized plastic bag. Any items exceeding
this limit may be confiscated by TSA personnel. Please refer to your local
transportation authorities for more information to ensure you are compliant and
have stress-free experience.
While everyone
is unique in what they like to pack, here are a few general suggestions:
•
Itinerary
and airline information, travel insurance documentation and emergency contacts,
along with photocopies of these important documents
•
Travelers
checks/cash/debit or credit cards, along with emergency contact numbers of
these companies, if lost or stolen
•
Local
currency for the first couple of days
•
Sunscreen,
sunglasses and hats
•
Travel
alarm clock
•
Basic
first aid kit: medications for upset stomach, prescriptions, aspirin,
antiseptic cream and wipes, cold medicine, vitamins, bandages
•
Prescription
eyeglasses or contact lenses and a backup pair in the event of loss or damage
•
Personal
medication and prescriptions (it is always best to have photocopies of
prescriptions)
Note: Any
medicine you take, please do not pack it in your luggage, make sure you take it
with you in your carry-on bag
•
Mini
flashlight and extra batteries are always handy to have
•
Small
calculator (for currency conversions); your smartphone has this function
•
Converters,
adapters, chargers and power cords**
•
Travel umbrella
and raincoat
•
Camera
and extra memory cards
*Important:
Pack a sufficient supply of any medications you are taking, copies of the
prescriptions and the telephone/fax numbers of your doctor. Some countries
require prescription drugs be carried in their original container with the
label clearly visible. Always keep your medication in your hand luggage.
**Europe uses
220v (230v on board the ship) and 2-pin adapters. Be sure to inspect your
chargers and power cords (for cell phones, cameras, electric shavers, laptops,
MP3 players, e-readers, etc.) to determine specific converter and/or adapter
requirements operation aboard the ship. We do not provide the required
adaptors.
STATEROOM
INFORMATION
Telephone
Your stateroom
has a telephone that may be used to call the reception desk and other
staterooms, as well as ship-to-shore calls (ship-to-shore calls will incur
charges). Please refer to the operating instructions provided. The telephone
system operates via globally positioned satellites, and therefore may be
temporarily out of service depending on the ship’s location. Any charges for
ship-to-shore calls will be billed to your onboard account. Please inquire at
the reception desk for rates
Climate Control
Your stateroom
is equipped with adjustable climate control and/or airflow. Please refer to the
instructions provided or check with the reception desk should you have
questions regarding its use.
Electricity
Electricity on
board is 230v with European 2-pin power outlets. You may need a European
adapter and/or converter for any electrical appliances you bring with you.
Bathroom Amenities
Your stateroom
is equipped with a hair dryer and spa-quality toiletries (soap, shampoo and
body lotion).
Safe deposit box
Your stateroom
has a small safe for personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe
whenever you are away from your stateroom.
Additional Stateroom Amenities
Your stateroom
has satellite television and a mini bar.
Dining
Please refer to
your itinerary to see what meals are included in your cruise fare. Meals are
served in a single seating in the various dining venues. Meals are skillfully
prepared by our chefs and consist of continental cuisine made with fresh,
locally sourced ingredients, whenever possible. Breakfast is buffet-style with
selections available from the menu as well. Depend on the cruise you booked, lunch
could be buffet-style with salads, soups and a selection of hot buffet items,
hot entrées and desserts or seat down platted style. Dinner is a multi-course
meal with a choice of delicious entrées, including
a vegetarian option. For details please check your cruises itinerary or check
with your cruise director.
If you have
special dietary requirements, such as vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.,
please advise DIV Cruises, Inc. or your preferred Travel Agent well in advance
of your cruise, so we may do our absolute best to accommodate your dietary
requests.
Health & Safety
Viral
gastroenteritis is a very common virus found almost anywhere, but the
opportunity to spread it can be greater in contained environments. Symptoms
include nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It may also include fever, stomach
issues and headache. The symptoms usually start 12 to 48 hours after the
infection and can last from 1 to 10 days. Most people who become sick with
viral gastroenteritis recover quickly with no further problems; however, if the
illness is more severe, further medical care may be required to treat
dehydration. The most effective protection from personal contamination is
ensuring strict attention to personal hygiene, and in particular, frequent and
thorough hand washing with soap and water and refraining from hand-to-mouth contact.
Colds and other
viruses can spread quickly in an enclosed area such as a ship. Continue to
practice common-sense hygiene and respiratory courtesy. Wash your hands often
and cover your coughs and sneezes. It is recommended passengers carry an anti-bacterial
hand sanitizer, which does not require rinsing with water. Use a sanitizer
frequently, especially after shore excursions, prior to meals and throughout
the day. If you have any questions regarding your health or safety while
onboard, please do not hesitate to ask your Cruise Director.
In addition
some guest may experience motion-sickness,
and as such, it is a good idea to take precautionary measures. Over-the-counter
medication can be purchased at most pharmacies or local stores. As always, it
is advisable to discuss this with you preferred travel professional.