4th Unlock the Past history & genealogy cruise - frequently asked questions

The Royal Caribbean International website has an extensive list of FAQs, so if your question isn't answered below, click here.

We highly recommend that you familiarise yourself with the content on their website regardless so that you do not miss important information prior to the cruise.

Q.  How does a cruise conference compare with major land conferences for value?

A.  Very favourably. There are many excellent traditional land conferences, but a national conference over 3-4 days may cost nearly $2000 to attend, allowing for conference fees, travel (from interstate), local transport, accommodation and meals. Our 9 day cruise conference for a similar outlay (or maybe less) offers more than comparable value.
 - more topics to choose from
 - the possibility of attending up to twice as many presentations
 - much more free time and one on one with experts
 - cost per day or per talk on a cruise can be less than half that of a land conference
 - all that a cruise offers by way of holiday benefits
 - visit interesting places all within the cruise cost
 - comprehensive activity and entertainment choices, most at no extra charge
 - great for non-history/genealogy partners - who can do other free activities or just relax

For a more extensive article on Deciding on a cruise ... and comparison with other events  click here.

Q:  What currency is used on Voyager of the Seas?
A: The currency onboard the Voyager of the Seas will be US Dollars which means that all onboard purchases and shipboard accounts will be charged in US Dollars.

Q:  Do I need a passport?
A:  A passport not required on this cruise, as it does not go to any International port. Passengers only need to show Photo id for example Drivers License or 18+ card. A passport can still be used as ID if passengers don’t have a drivers license or other ID.

Q:  Do I need to take out Travel Insurance?
A:  Absolutely. Australian Medicare and Private Health care will not cover you for any medical costs onboard. This cruise will require an International travel insurance policy. We strongly recommend that you ask Clean Cruising to arrange your policy when you pay your deposit.

Q:  What if I would like to book flights and/or accommodation?
A:  Clean Cruising are a fully licensed retail travel agency, with years of experience. They can assist you with all of your travel requirements. They can recommend and book the best available flight options and have great rates for pre and post accommodation in Sydney.

Q:  Can I book for the conference part of the cruise if I book the cruise with another agent?
A: No. The conference management and benefits can only be obtained by booking the total conference-cruise package. A few of the main talks may be open to the general public. Most of the conference presentations, workshops, interest groups, the registration pack (expected to include several hundred dollars worth of vouchers and products) and other benefits will only be available to those who book the complete conference-cruise package.

Q:  If I am booking my own flights, what arrival and departure times do you recommend?
A: Please ensure your flight arrives no later than 4 hours before your cruise check in time (to be advised by Clean Cruising). This should provide enough time to travel to the cruise terminal and check-in for your holiday of a lifetime.

If you are flying home on the day you leave the cruise, please ensure your flight departs no earlier than 5 hours after your cruise arrives in port. This should help you to have a stress free return home from your relaxing cruise holiday.

When you are making your own air bookings, missed connections are always a possibility…so the more time you allow for unforeseen delays at either end of your cruise, the better. If you do need to make changes to your air bookings, your chosen airline may charge fees; so ask Clean Cruising to check their airfare conditions when you book. 

Q:  How much luggage can I bring?
A:  Airlines and transfer vehicles have luggage restrictions and might impose excess luggage charges. Keep this in mind when packing.

Q:  Can I access the Internet on board?
A:  Yes, the basic rate is USD $0.65 per minute or choose from one of the pre-paid packages:
US$35.00 for 60 minutes
US$55.00 for 100 minutes
US$75.00 for 150 minutes
US$100.00 for 250 minutes
US$150.00 for 500 minutes
All prices are subject to change without notice.

For more information see Royal Caribbean FAQ Internet page

Q:  Are laundry services provided?
A:  Self-service laundry facilities are not provided onboard. There is are full laundry and dry cleaning services. Irons are not provided in the staterooms as they constitute a fire hazard.

Q:  Is there a qualified medical staff on board?
A:  Royal Caribbean have two fully qualified doctors and three nurses on board every ship.

Q:  What if I suffer from motion sickness?
A:  A very small percentage of cruise passengers experience motion sickness. You can prepare yourself by purchasing medication before you leave home. Tablets or special magnetic wrist-bands can assist.

Many more questions are answered on the Royal Caribbean International website.