caribbean cruise

starry

Hi Guys, Does anyone know about the taxes that you pay when visiting different islands in the caribbean. Someone has told me that you have to pay every time you disembark. Do any of you guys know anything about this, such as how much it is etc. We are diong a 14 day cruise and were thinking this is going to cost quite a lot (if it is the case) for 4 of us. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Starry.

vickyj

Hi
your port taxes are normally included in the cost of the cruise allthough check just to make sure, i would be very suprised if this is not the case.
what is not inclkuded which can mount up though are automatic tips. usually your account is debited with a sum usually around $10 per day for adults and $6 per child. You can have this taken of if you choose. we generally take the kids tips off and use this to tip those who have given a high level of service at the end of the cruise. these tips can mount up quite a bit though so be aware. Also are you going to do any excursions? these are costly but in some destinations (panama, costa maya) very advisable
I hope that this helps.
Vicky

IvanOpinion

Starry, I have heard tht some American TAs do not include taxes when quoting for a cruise but as far as I am aware all british TAs (well reputable ones anyway) include port taxes and charges. Look up your brochure, at tht ebcak will be a section about what is and what is not included

In general the following are included
- flights
- cabin
- food (excluding optional speciality restaurants)
- entertainment (inc. shows, cinema etc.)
- port charges and taxes
- gym
- use of sun loungers, pools etc. while on board
- use of tenders (if ship can not dock)
In general the following are not included
- tips
- drinks (although you an get AI packages on some lines)
- speciality restaurants
- onboard purchases (e.g. jewellers, photography, off licence etc.)
- off board purchases, tours, taxis, must have geegaws etc.
- spa teatments and speciality lectures/classes
- internet costs
- laundry costs (either dry cleaning or use of onboard machines .. although us ef iron is free)

Ivan

starry

Thanks Guys, i think i'll ring the TA's (Dawson & Sanderson) just to make sure. Thanks again for your help. x:A