What time will I usually start the day?
Depending on your tour, after a hearty breakfast you'll start the day early morning to get the best vantage spots or to get into your destination earlier for more free time.

Can I have laundry done?
Most hotels do offer laundry service, and in some cities laundromats are also available. However, it is a good idea to try and pack enough clothing without having to do laundry, as it can sometimes be costly and/or inconvenient.

Can I use my electrical appliances?
Electrical currents vary in Britain, on the continent of Europe and also in different countries throughout the world. Some newer appliances have dual voltage, but if not, we suggest you carry a converter for your electric shaver, travelling iron and other small appliances to prevent damage.
Additionally, plugs/outlets differ everywhere, so you'll need a universal electrical travel adaptor before you go in order to use your appliance. Aussie's visiting New Zealand and Kiwis visiting Australia do not have to worry as both countries have the same voltage and plug designs.

How do I change my currency?
Currency can be exchanged at airports or banks. Most bank machines (ATM's) throughout Europe and many parts of the world accept debit cards.

How can I keep in touch with family and friends?
Almost all hotels will add a service charge to the cost of any phone calls you make from your room. This charge can be high, especially for international calls. It is always cheaper to use public telephones (pay phones) or an international calling card.

Is there seat rotation?
Yes, your Tour Director will implement a seat rotation system, whereby passengers rotate seats on the coach daily. This allows for all passengers to experience the different views from various seats and maximise interaction.

What if I arrive late and miss a feature on the tour?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing.

Can I drink the water in the countries I will visit on my tour?
In Australasia, Britain, Western Europe and Scandinavia, the answer is 'yes'. For other countries visited you will be guided by your Tour Director.

Is smoking allowed on the coach?
There is a no smoking policy whilst on board the coach. However, there are plenty of comfort stops, allowing you ample opportunity to smoke if you wish, stretch your legs, take a scenic snapshot or enjoy a cup of coffee. 

Are we organised on board or are we free to do what we wish?
A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies every departure. He or She is there to help you plan & get the best out of your tour. You are under no obligation to participate in organised trips ashore or any events on board if you prefer to just relax & enjoy the scenery.

Do I get to choose the table I dine at on board?
Meals are served in the dining room in a single sitting. There is open seating so you may sit at different tables for each meal if you wish to meet other fellow passengers. All meals on board the ship are included.

I will be bringing some electrical appliances with me, what do I need know about the electricity supply so that I can use them?
Electricity on board is 220v. The bathrooms have a dual 220v/110-120v plug for shavers and small appliances. You will need an adapter or converter to use in other outlets in the stateroom for any small personal items such as a razor, curling iron or alarm clock. In the Galapagos, electrical outlets are 110v with American-type outlets. Each stateroom is equipped with a hair dryer. Please call reception if there is no hair dryer in your room.

What about tipping on the cruise?
Gratuities on board European river cruises are included for the Tour Director & Crew. They are not included in Egypt, China & South America. Tips to the land Tour Director, Tour Driver & Local City Guides, other ship personnel, gratuities on Ferries, Trains & Cruise Ships are not included. For a service well done we suggest 3-5 Euro per day per tour member for the Tour Director & Driver. It is also customary to acknowledge a particularly good performance of a local guide.

Will I have access to laundry facilities on the cruise?
Laundry service is available on board for a modest fee. Price lists will be available in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board. For safety reasons, we ask that you do not iron clothing in your cabin. For a small fee, the onboard laundry service is available to iron clothing. Laundry facilities are not available on the Galapagos cruise.

What happens if I need medical attention?
Should you fall ill, please contact your ships reception, at once. Due to the proximity to land, medical services can be called from shore when necessary. There is a resident physician on board the Santa Cruz & La Pinta only. You will be responsible for all charges that result from visiting a Medical facility, or for a Medical Practitioner visiting you. It is important that your Travel Insurance covers these eventualities

Do I have to have cash for payments on board?
A cashless system operates on the vessels. For convenience, all purchases and paid services on board (after your authorisation) are billed to your personal shipboard account. At the end of your cruise, you will receive a total which can be paid with cash or charged to a major credit card or paid in traveller's cheques (there is a processing fee). Travellers cheques are not accepted on the Royal Lotus. Personal cheques are not accepted.

I am a smoker, are there facilities for my habit?
In Europe and in the Galapagos, all ships have non-smoking interiors. Smoking is only permitted on the Sky Deck. On the Victoria Anna, Victoria Jenna and Royal Lotus, smoking is limited to specific areas.

I am celebrating my Birthday on this voyage, can I arrange something special?
Passengers celebrating special occasions, such as anniversaries or birthdays, should alert ship personnel upon boarding the ship.