River Cruises on Cruiseco Ships
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement of all Cruiseco holidays. Please note that some of the destinations that you will visit are remote and emergency services may be required. We recommend you get travel insurance before paying a deposit. Failure to obtain travel insurance will not waive any cancellation fees in the event that you need to cancel your trip.
Is a doctor on board and do I need injections before I travel?
There's no doctor on board. Limited medical facilities are available on board, and in the event of an emergency, the vessels will head to shore immediately. It's recommended you check with your doctor that you are fit for travel. Your doctor should also check as to whether any prophylactic drugs or inoculations are required.
What facilities are available in the cabins?
All cabins have their own air conditioning, en-suite shower, wc facilities, hair dryers, mini-safe, mini-fridge, intercom phones, luggage storage, wardrobe, writing desk, kimono, slippers, and chairs. Cabins do not have mini bars or televisions.
What sort of power adapter is used on board?
The electricity voltage is 230 volts; two round pin type as found in Continental Europe.
Do I need to take insect precautions?
To avoid insects entering your cabin, it is advisable to keep cabin windows and doors closed during the late afternoon and evening. It is also recommended that you apply insect repellent if you are outside your cabin or going ashore at dusk or at night. As a further precaution, please switch off lights before leaving your cabin.
Is there air-conditioning onboard?
You can control the air-conditioning in your cabin. It is not recommended to over-cool it as a sudden change from the temperature outside can bring on colds, respiratory illnesses and even stomach upsets.
What is the dress code?
The atmosphere onboard is informal and relaxed; comfortable, casual attire during the day and the evenings are smart-casual.
What drinks are included?
Locally produced soft drinks, local beer, coffee, tea and mineral water are served free of charge throughout the cruise. House wine and beer are served with lunch and dinner. Only liquors, premium wines or imported mineral waters will be charged.
Security
Moored or docked, Cruiseco ships will have a crew member watching the gangway and controlling access. However, we request you lock the cabin door and use your cabin's safe. No liability will be accepted by the company for loss of any valuable items from the ship or while guests are ashore on excursions.
What currency is used onboard?
Cruiseco ship's onboard currency is the US Dollar. You'll have a ship account to sign a bill for all purchases and services throughout the cruise. Onboard charges will be in US Dollars and accounts can be settled by cash or credit card (only Mastercard or Visa).
Please note: only accounts over $25 USD can be paid by credit card. There is a limited money exchange service on board but travellers cheques are not accepted.
Most vendors ashore take US Dollars. Main cities have ATM's and travellers cheques can be exchanged in local banks but this is not recommended. Hotels and shops charge up to 7% for credit card processing.
Am I required to tip the staff onboard?
Gratuities are included in your cruise fare and passengers are not expected to tip staff individually or collectively.
Is there Internet access onboard?
There is a WiFi system. Internet is available in larger towns and cities and where there is GSM signal (almost 65% of the journey). Please check coverage with the Cruise Director.
Are there laundry facilities?
A laundry bag is provided for your needs and a laundry list is available in your cabin. Laundry is collected each morning when your room is made up and will be returned the following day. It's not recommended to have 'whites' washed onboard. Charges for the laundry service will be made to your onboard account.
Is the water onboard suitable for drinking?
The vessel's water supply is from the river but it is run through a sterilisation plant. It is suitable for washing and brushing teeth but NOT drinking. Bottled drinking water is provided free of charge. Never accept ice in drinks and avoid ice creams, crushed sugar cane, salads or the skins of fruits when ashore.
Is smoking permitted onboard?
Smoking is not permitted in your cabin, private balcony or any internal areas. It's permitted only on open areas of the sun deck.
What type of meals are provided onboard?
Breakfast and lunch is a buffet and dinner is served at the tables. You will be offered a fusion of Asian and Western cuisine and vegetarian dishes can also be requested. Other special meal requirements will be made on a 'request' basis only and can't be guaranteed. Please advise your Cruiseco travel agent of your requirements at time of booking.
Can I have a double bed?
All beds can be converted into twins or doubles.
Are there lifts onboard and facilities for wheelchairs?
There are no lifts and the ship is not equipped for passengers travelling in a wheelchair. The vessel regularly moors where paths can be muddy and slippery. It is recommended passengers be relatively fit, able-bodied and able to walk over uneven surfaces. Please consult your Cruiseco travel agent with any questions.
Will my mobile phone work?
These operators offer service: SINGTEL (Singapore), AAIS (Thailand),Mobifone (Vietnam), Unicom(China), SK Telephone (S. Korea), NTT DOCOMO (Japan), Hutchinson (Hong Kong), China Mobile (China). Please check with your local carrier for roaming charges before travelling.
Will I need a visa to travel?
Passengers must obtain a visa for their destination(s) before departing the UK. This fee is not included in the cost of your holiday. Ensure your passport has sufficient validity (over six months) before travelling. Please speak to your Cruiseco travel consultant for visa information.
