Frequently Asked Questions

Soaps @ Sea 2020

Will I get to meet the stars?

Yes! There is opportunity for interaction between the stars and guests at our exclusive activities and events.

Will I be able to get an autograph and take pictures with the stars?

There will be designated events where you will be able to meet and greet, take a picture get an autograph. 

Can I purchase the Soaps @ Sea 2020 cruise through any other company?

No. The Soaps @ Sea cruise can only be purchased with our partners at Cruises Only.  They provide the soap stars, exclusive activities, and you will only have access to our events if you book the Soaps @ Sea cruise through them. The stars of Soaps W Sea will not be accessible to any other guests on the ship.

Will the stars be eating with us in the dining room for dinner?

No. The stars will only be accessible at our exclusive activities and events. 

What is included in the Soaps @ Sea 2020 Cruise?

We've created an all-inclusive cruise expereince for our cruisers. Along with our private, exclusive activites, your cruise includes meals in the main restaraunts (excluding the specialty restaurants), all drinks of the premium drink package, gratuities, priority & free room service, Wi-Fi, fully equipped gyms, and entertainment.

What is not included in the Soaps@ Sea Cruise?

The price does not include airfare, transfers from the hotel or airport, group transportation, onboard purchases (i.e. special services, specialty restaurants,  gift shop, wifi packages, gambling, shore excursions, or travel protection.

Do I need a passport or visa?

US Citizens require a passport book with a minimum of 6 months validity post the return of your sailing and the corresponding visa required for entry and exit from the country.

It is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality. If your name has changed since your document was issued (e.g., marriage or divorce), it is required that you update the document with the new name or provide an official supporting document (e.g., a state, county or province issued marriage license, divorce decree or legal name change document) of the name change. All documents must be the original or a notarized copy. Additionally, if you are using an identification (e.g., driver's license) and a citizenship document ( e.g., birth certificate), then BOTH documents must match the name on your reservation. Otherwise, it may result in delay or possible denial of boarding.

For International Sailings - Non-US Citizens will require a passport with a minimum of 6 months validity post the return of your sailing and the supporting visa for entry and exit from the country, if applicable.   

Visit travel.state.gov for information regarding documentation requirements for U.S. citizens. 

For further information and passport requirements, please visit www.state.gov.  

What is the cancellation policy?

Booking

How many people can fit into a cabin?

The occupancy limit varies by cabin, some of which can accommodate 3 or 4 guests. Please note that the cabin size will stay the same regardless of how many guests are booked. In most cases, a convertible sofa bed is provided for the 3rd guest. A 4th occupant will be sleeping on a Pullman (trundle) bed that folds down from the ceiling. This guest must have the physical dexterity to climb up to the bunk bed.

What if I need to make a name change?

Name changes are permitted for $100 per person, however at least one guest from the original reservation must remain in the room. Changing all names in a room are not permitted and considered a cancellation. 

What if I want to book a single cabin?

Guests traveling by themselves are certainly welcome! Single guests may reserve any stateroom. The cost will be doubled (this is known as the “single supplement”).  

How do I purchase travel protection?

You may purchase travel protection while placing your reservation or by calling 877-711-0751.  Travel Protection is purchased on a per person basis and is based on the cost of your cruise. You can also include the cost of your non-refundable airline tickets.   You may also be interested in our Cancel For Any Reason policy. The Cancel for Any Reason option is only available when specifically requested at the time of making your reservation. The Cancel For Any Reason benefit must be purchased within 7 days of your initial trip deposit. This benefit allows the insured to receive a partial refund of covered trip costs on reservations cancelled up to 72 hours prior to departure for any reason outside of the covered circumstances.  Please note that certain preconditions mandate purchase within 7 days of your reservation to be effective. Non-U.S. citizens may qualify to purchase cruise line insurance. 

Is there a payment plan?

There are three ways to pay for your cabin for the Soaps at Sea Cruise. 

1. Standard Payment Plan - After making your initial deposit, your remaining balance will be divided into two payments. The payments will be due on April 15, 2020 for $250.00 per person with the balance due at final payment on August 4, 2020. 
2. Monthly Payment Plan - After making your initial deposit, your remaining balance will be divided into equal monthly payments. Your final payment will be due on August 4, 2020. 
3. Semi-annual Payment Plan - After making your initial deposit,  your balance will be divided into two equal payments. The first will be due half way between the time of booking and final payment, which is due on August 4, 2020.

What if I need a roommate?

The Soaps at Sea cruise will be promoted all throughout Social Media. You may want to watch to see if others are looking for a roommate and connect with them. 

Once onboard

How does MSC accommodate guests with special dietary requirements or gluten and other food allergies?

MSC Cruises provides tailored menus to meet everyone’s dining requirements: Halal and vegetarian menus, pre-prepared Kosher meals, gluten-free cuisine.. Special Diets & Menus. Special Diets & Menus.  Click here for more information on meal requests and guidelines. 

Will my phone work onboard a MSC ship?

Yes, Not only in your own cabin! On our MSC Cruises, you can stay connected also in the Public Areas using your devices. The service is accessible 24 hours a day.  We've included the internet package for 2 devices per cabin so you can share your special moments with friends and family while you cruise and show those Instagram-worthy photos!

Where can we smoke on the ship?  Can I smoke on my verandah?

MSC Cruises respects the needs and desires of all guests, and we have given careful consideration to the preferences of both those who smoke and those who do not.

In line with global standards, smoking areas on board are fewer than non-smoking areas and are indicated by signage and ashtrays. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in staterooms, on stateroom balconies and anywhere not expressly indicated by signage and ashtrays.

Onboard MSC, smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in its cabins, on its balconies or anywhere else unless clearly indicated with the appropriate signage. Smoking in areas where it not permitted is subject to a cleaning fee, and repeated offences can lead to your disembarkation.

The Company reserves the right to levy a fee should passengers be found smoking in non designated areas of the vessel. Repeatedly smoking in non- smoking areas can ultimately lead to disembarkation.

We remind you that throwing cigarette butts or anything else overboard at sea is strictly prohibited as it may seriously put in danger safety at sea.

What is the electrical voltage equipped for MSC ships?

All Royal Caribbean ships are equipped with North American standard, 110 volts AC and standard European 220/230 volts AC outlets.

Are there places to plug in my phone, ipad, etc.?

Yes, there are outlets in each cabin for both domestic and EU appliances. Pack an EU charger or travel adapter if you'd like to charge in public areas.

Preparing to sail

How do I check-in for my cruise?

Online Check-In opens as soon as you make your final payment and must be completed no later than 3 days prior to sailing. Completing the Online Check-In process for all the guests in your reservation will save you from having to fill out forms at the pier.

Royal Caribbean International requires guests to be checked in no later than 60 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing time*. Guests arriving late will not be permitted to sail. This supports government regulations in some ports that require cruise lines to submit a departure manifest 60 minutes prior to sailing. Guests are requested to complete Online Check-In no later than 3 days prior to the cruise in order to expedite the pier check-in process. 

Once you have completed the Online Check-In process, you will receive a SetSail Pass. It indicates that you successfully completed the check-in process for you and those guests listed on your SetSail Pass. If your cruise documents are available, you can access them through your reservation dashboard in your My Cruises Account. If your documents are not yet available, check back soon. You should also receive an e-mail when your documents are ready.

To start your check-in process, click here.

What documents are required to do my online check-in?

In order to complete Online Check-In successfully, you will need the following:

• Passport for each guest you are checking in online.
• Return flight information or travel plans.
• Onboard Expense Account Information (i.e. credit card and the reservation informaton that is authorized to charge against the account.)
• You will also need to establish an Onboard Expense Account with either a credit card number or cash.

What clothes should I pack?

Light, casual clothing or “resort casual” is the norm during the day. Don’t forget your swimwear, cover-up, sunglasses, and sun hat. If you plan to participate in yoga, Pilates or other fitness classes, we suggest sneakers and loose cotton clothing or other comfortable attire. Athletic shoes are required for fitness activities. Average temps range from 55 to 67 during the day in these ports. 

Your preference of button downs, pants, capris, skirts or dresses are recommended for smart casual dinner attire. Along with dress shoes, fashion sandals, flats, or comfortable heels. After 6:00 p.m., jeans, t-shirts, shorts, and bare feet are discouraged in the ships' public areas.

The ship has two gala nights for optional evening attire at dinner.  Typically, on these two nights, there is a range from business casual to formal wear. MSC also hosts a variety of themed dress-up nights, such as disco, Gatsby, 70s, a white night, and a country western night. MSC events are optional and in addition to the social events Soaps at Sea has planned.

Although all cabins are air conditioned and individually controlled, we are not able to control the temperature in the public spaces such as the dining room and lecture rooms, which may be cool, so a scarf and sweater or light jacket is recommended.

Be sure to pack toiletries and incidentals such as conditioner, lotion, and sunscreen along with electronic cables and chargers. We also suggest bringing a travel electric converter adapter for charging in public spaces. While blow dryers are available in each cabin, you may want to bring along a curling iron. 

What if I have a special occasion to celebrate?

We love to help you celebrate! If you have a birthday, anniversary, etc, please let your group agent know at least 30 days prior to sailing and we will notify MSC of your special date and they will deliver something special for you for dessert one night in the dining room. Special occasion packages are available for purchase and can be viewed on your MSC account. 

Does MSC have wheelchair accessible cabins? 

MSC offers cruisers with limited mobility a variety of accessible staterooms, which makes maneuvering in a wheelchair much easier. MSC Cruises is not able to provide wheelchairs or other mobility devices to guests, so passengers must bring those with them. If you do have a mobility issue, we advise cruising with a companion who can be on hand to help you get around, especially on excursions.

Each stateroom and elevator uses Braille on its signage. Public rooms like restaurants and lounges also incorporate Braille signage where possible. Those with hearing impairment are encouraged to request a kit, which includes devices that can change an alarm from an audio alert to one that uses lights and vibrations. There are also amplifiers that can be used in the theaters and lounges.

Those with certain allergies or dietary needs should make our consultants aware ahead of time so we can ensure that MSC Cruises has the proper ingredients onboard to meet your needs.

Please note the cruise line does investigate and take action on potential misuse of accessible staterooms where there is good cause to believe that such staterooms have been booked fraudulently.