menu
close
search
ABTA IATA ATOL
close
close
01244 897 505
Make an Enquiry
clear

Elegant Traveller

Cruise Holiday FAQs

schedule4 Minute Read

24-Oct-2026 Mark Martin

Cruise Holiday FAQs

Thinking about booking your first cruise holiday but not sure what to expect? Our experts aim to help by answering all of the most frequently asked questions on the topic including basic questions suc

Planning a luxury cruise holiday opens up a world of possibilities, from exploring several countries in one journey to enjoying world class dining, personalised customer service and spectacular ocean views. However, if you are considering your first voyage, you may have questions about certain aspects of the experience ranging from onboard facilities to choosing the right cabin.
To help you prepare, our Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about luxury cruise holidays, drawing on their first hand experiences to help you make the most of your time at sea.

How fast does a cruise ship go?

ER

Most large ocean-going cruise ships travel at around 20 - 24 knots, equivalent to approximately 23 - 28 miles per hour. However, their speed varies according to the vessel, weather conditions, sea conditions and itinerary. Smaller expedition ships, such as those operated by AE Expeditions, may travel at different speeds depending on their design and purpose. Cruise ships generally prioritise a comfortable journey and arriving at each port on schedule rather than travelling as quickly as possible. This allows guests to enjoy the unrivalled luxury cruise holiday experience while travelling between scheduled destinations.

Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi?

ER

Yes, most modern cruise ships offer onboard Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to check emails, browse the internet and stay in touch with family and friends. Luxury cruise operators such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Silversea and Seabourn offer connectivity options, although the packages and inclusions vary between ships and fares. Internet access at sea can be slower or less consistent than at home, particularly in remote destinations. Some packages are included in the cruise fare, while others require an additional payment. Your Luxury Travel Specialist can explain the arrangements for your chosen voyage.

Do you get phone signal on a cruise?

ER

Mobile phone reception depends on your location, your network provider and the ship's onboard communications facilities. You may receive a signal when the ship is close to land, but coverage can disappear when sailing further offshore, particular in remote locations. Some vessels provide maritime mobile networks, although using them can incur substantial roaming charges. Connecting to the ship's Wi-Fi for internet-based messaging may be a more practical option. Before departure, check your mobile provider's cruise roaming arrangements and consider switching off data roaming to avoid unexpected bills.

Can you go on a cruise pregnant?

ER

Yes, in many cases, but most cruise lines do have strict pregnancy policies. Many operators do not permit guests to sail if they have reached 24 weeks of pregnancy by the end of the cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line, for example, does not allow passengers to sail if they will have entered their 24th week by the end of the voyage. Policies can vary, so it is essential to check the requirements of your chosen cruise line before booking. You should also discuss your travel plans with your healthcare professional, particularly if your itinerary includes remote destinations where medical facilities may be limited and vaccinations might be necessary. Feel free to discuss this with one of our Luxury Travel Specialists who will be able to help you decide which cruise line is most appropriate for you given your health condition.

Are cruises worth it?

ER

Absolutely! A luxury cruise holiday is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the world, combining exceptional accommodation, outstanding dining and the excitement of discovering new destinations without repeatedly packing and unpacking your suitcase. You will have just the one room throughout your stay, ensuring you can get comfortable in one location without the stress of moving and unpacking constantly as would be the case if you were experiencing a conventional multi-centre holiday. Cruising holidays offer remarkable variety. You might spend one day exploring historic Mediterranean towns, the next enjoying a leisurely day at sea and the following morning waking up to spectacular Caribbean scenery. Expedition voyages with operators such as AE Expeditions and PONANT offer another perspective, bringing guests closer to extraordinary landscapes and wildlife in destinations such as Antarctica. This is the kind of holiday that will feel the most adventurous and is perfectly suited to holiday makers who enjoy thrilling activities and exploring remarkable locations. Life onboard is equally appealing. Depending on your chosen ship, you can dine at world class restaurants, spend time in the on-board swimming pools, wellness facilities and let the children have fun and make friends in the supervised kids clubs. Luxury cruise lines including Silversea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Seabourn also offer guests the chance to experience all-inclusive indulgence along with carefully curated, bespoke shore excursions. Cruises can also offer unparalleled convenience, with stunning accommodation, transport between destinations and a wide choice of onboard experiences. The key is choosing an itinerary and cruise line that best matches your interests, whether you prefer relaxation, cultural discovery or adventure.

What was the first cruise ship?

ER

The answer depends on how a cruise ship is defined. One early example was Francesco I, which undertook an advertised leisure voyage from Naples in 1833, visiting destinations around the Mediterranean and offering passengers excursions along the way. Another important milestone came in 1844, when the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, now associated with P&O Cruises, began passenger voyages from Southampton to destinations including Athens, Gibraltar and Malta. These journeys helped establish the foundations of modern cruising, although passenger ships were still primarily used for transport rather than holidays as we know them today before the on-set of aircraft. The industry has since evolved dramatically, with contemporary luxury vessels combining sophisticated accommodation, fine dining and specialist experiences that can only be had at sea.

Do I need a plug adapter on a cruise ship?

ER

Possibly. Electrical sockets vary between cruise ships, with some using British-style three-pin sockets, others providing European or US-style outlets, and certain vessels offering more than one type. The best approach is to check the electrical arrangements on your specific ship before departure. A suitable travel adapter may be useful, particularly if you are travelling internationally before joining your chosen cruise. Remember that an adapter changes the plug connection, not the voltage. Check that your electronic devices support the electrical supply provided, and avoid bringing extension leads or multi-socket adaptors unless your cruise line explicitly permits them. Our Luxury Travel Specialists can help you with all of these considerations, offering all the information you need about your chosen cruise.

What are the best cabins on a cruise ship, and what is the best deck?

ER

The best cruise ship cabin depends on your priorities and itinerary. If you value natural light and private outdoor space, a balcony suite can be an excellent choice, allowing you to enjoy ocean views from the comfort of your accommodation. Luxury ships such as Scenic Eclipse and Seabourn Encore offer high-end suite accommodation for travellers seeking additional space and comfort. If you are concerned about seasickness, a cabin towards the middle of the ship on a lower passenger deck generally experiences less movement than one at the front or on a higher deck. Light sleepers should also consider avoiding cabins directly beneath busy restaurants, swimming pools or entertainment venues. Higher decks can provide convenient access to outdoor facilities and expansive views, while lower decks may be closer to certain dining venues or disembarkation areas. There is no universal best deck to choose, so reviewing the ship's deck plan with one of our Luxury Travel Specialists can help you choose the right location.

How much is a cruise ship worth?

ER

The cost of a cruise ship varies enormously according to its size, design, facilities and intended purpose. Smaller expedition vessels and intimate luxury ships can cost hundreds of millions of pounds to build, while the newest, largest ocean-going vessels can command prices exceeding £1 billion. For example, Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas reportedly cost approximately $2 billion to construct, reflecting the enormous scale and engineering involved in creating a modern megaship. Luxury cruise ships also require substantial ongoing investment in staffing, maintenance, fuel, technology and refurbishment. Their value therefore extends beyond the original cost of construction, with factors such as age, condition and earning potential influencing their market value.

Plan Your Luxury Cruise Holiday with Elegant Resorts

Whether you are considering your first voyage at sea or planning your next great adventure, the Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts can help you navigate the many options available. With first-hand knowledge of luxury cruise lines, ships and itineraries, they can recommend a holiday tailored specifically to your interests and expectations.
From selecting the ideal cabin and arranging flights and transfers to organising pre-cruise hotel stays and memorable excursions along the way, every detail can be considered as part of a bespoke itinerary.
Get in touch with the Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts to start planning your next luxury cruise holiday.
Mark Martin

Mark Martin

SEO Consultant

An experienced marketing professional who has been fortunate enough to work in the travel industry since 2010. Over this time I've developed an increasing thirst for travel, particularly to holiday destinations which allow me to indulge my love of motorsport.

Feeling Inspired?

To book your next luxury holiday, please call our Luxury Travel Specialists on 01244 897 578