Frequently Asked Questions
Either call us on 0800 059 0570 or send us a message from the Enquiry button and we will call you back to book your cruise.
We also offer an appointment service either face to face or Teams with one of our cruise experts to discuss your options. This way you get the best possible advice before finalising your booking.
Yes, but note that these are limited so you will need to book early. Let us know when you call or fill in the enquiry form so we can prioritise this for you.
Sometimes, it depends on which cruise line you travel on.
Yes, but choosing the right cruise is essential for those travelling with families. There are some amazing cruise lines who cater for children of all ages and have lots of facilities to keep them happy and engaged. We can help you make the right choice so that you keep everyone happy!
Some of the newer ships have elevators
Yes, however if you have particular needs or concerns, please check with us as medical facilities on board ships vary.
There is quite a lot to take into consideration as the ships tend to dock alongside each other so to get on shore, you may have to negotiate 2 or 3 ships which although are made accesible to disabled passengers, it can be a bit of a marathon before you even start your explorations. Most of the modern ships have elevators but not always to the top deck and the outside stairs can be steep. That said, once we know your requirements, we can shortlist the best river cruise ships for you.
River and Expedition usually include excursions and experiences but most ocean cruise lines do not.
Not always. If you are a foodie and like variety and quality, please let us know and we will make some great cruise line recommendations that put their focus on food and wine and include speciality dining as part of the cruise package
Yes! We have some great solo rates on all types of cruising – Please let us know that you want to be part of our Solo Club so we can make sure we send you the latest offers.
Most of the time, you can through ‘Manage my booking’. We are also Destination Experts and are happy to give you some advice on what to do and see in each port of call.
Absolutely, you can! What’s more, we will help you make the best choice as we have had years of experience and been on board many of our featured cruise ships so can give you first-hand guidance.
Of course, this is one of the joys of cruising! Arriving in a different place as your itinerary unfolds and exploring the area independently. Most cruise lines will give you some guidance on the key places to visit in advance and often, tourist offices will place themselves on board or in the cruise terminal to hand out maps so you can quickly familiarise yourself as to your whereabouts. Just be sure to note the time you need to be back on board and take the daily programme with you as it will have the location of the ship and an emergency telephone number – Just in case!
Yes, definitely! Cruising is possibly one of the best holidays for those with dietary needs. Be sure to tell us when you book so we can make sure that the cruise line is aware of your needs in advance.
The upper cabins will have either French or full balconies and the lower decks small windows
No, there are other options, depending on the itinerary.
Some countries will require you to organise a visa in advance of travel. We will go through this with you at the time of booking and let you know how to obtain the necessary documents.
Not always, often your passport is kept by the cruise line to streamline immigration and customs procedures. You are normally advised when to take your passport ashore depending on the port of call. Your key-card acts as a pass to get on and off the ship to ease the responsibility of having to carry your passport with you.
No, but we can recommend travel insurance companies, depending on your situation.
Typically river ships range as follows:
Length from 100 to 400 feet
Width is generally between 20 and 40 feet
Height between 30 to 60 feet
Passenger capacity between 100 and 200
As long as you can accommodate your luggage in your cabin, there are no restrictions, however, the luggage allowance on your flight will set the bar as far as that is concerned – not unless you choose a cruise departing from the U.K of course!
Yes, on the family friendly cruise lines babysitting is available as well as kids clubs.
Most cruise lines can accommodate guests with disabilities but some smaller ships, particularly Expedition and River may require a little more research as to their suitability for your particular needs. We can certainly help to get the facts for you so you can confidently make the right choice.
Each cruise line has its own dress code, however generally speaking:
Expedition is casual
River cruises are casual during the day and smart casual in the evening
Ocean cruises tend to be casual during the day, smart casual at night with the occasional ‘dressy’ or even Black Tie evening, especially if your cruise is 10 nights or longer.
For more details, each cruise line clarifies this in their confirmation and ticket documents.
Let us know if the formality of dress code is important to you and we will suggest the most appropriate cruise line.
Your travel documents are presented to you around 3 weeks prior to travel and contain all the paperwork you need to board. In addition, you will require a passport and, depending on your itinerary, visas may be required. We will have advised you in advance so you can be fully prepared.
The booking conditions for each cruise line vary but generally speaking:
Water levels can significantly affect an itinerary – High water levels may mean that the ship cannot get under bridges – Low levels may mean that the ship cannot get into ports. If you are already on board, changes to the itinerary will be made to give you the best possible experience through extended coach and/or hotel options.
If you are yet to travel, you will be given options prior to travel so you can decide whether you still want to travel.
Inclusions vary so when comparing prices, be aware that sometimes drinks packages, gratuities, speciality restaurants, excursions and Wi Fi packages are extra. This can make a considerable difference to the end cost. We will help you to compare like for like costs so you can weigh up the value before you make your final decision
Cancellation policies vary depending on the cruise line you book. We advise you of the booking conditions of your chosen cruise line at the time of enquiry. As a general rule – you will lose your deposit, up to the time of paying your balance. After paying your balance, there will be a sliding scale of cancellation charges which increase the nearer you get to the departure date.
Bank Transfer
Cash or Cheque
Credit cards: Mastercard & Visa
Debit cards
Cruising is renowned for its variety and quality of food, so you will never be short of choice. River cruises tend to use locally sourced ingredients and there is a huge choice so from the pickiest eater to the fine diner, there will be something to enjoy.
Worldwide sailings are available through Perfect Cruises. We are not restricted to the usual itineraries as we have contracts with a wide variety of cruise lines and cover some amazing voyages, including World Cruises.
Worldwide sailings are available through Perfect Cruises. We are not restricted to European waterways as we have contracts with a wide variety of cruise lines, so if the Ganges, Mekong, Amazon or Nile is on your list, then we can talk you through the best option for you.