Frequently Asked Questions

 . . . for the ILR’s Lamaribbean II Conference / Cruise

 

1. Q: Why is this priced higher than I see on the Celebrity website?
   A: There are different categories of cabins, even within the same type, such as inside, ocean view, etc. Each one prices differently. This price includes the government fees, as well as the fuel surcharges, which are not shown online.  Also it includes the gratuities for the cruise.  We pre-pay those when we are in a large group.
2. Q: What is the difference in the various type cabins?
   A: Here are the cabin categories, types and specifications:
   • CC   Conceirge Class - This has a private balcony and butler service  $836.20pp
   • Cat. 2A - Private Balcony - $733.70pp
   • Cat. 05  - Ocean view - $663.70pp
   • Cat. 10 - Inside  (no window) - $558.70pp

All prices include port charges, taxes, fuel surcharge and pre-paid gratuities.

 

3. Q: How do I get to Miami?
   A: The cruise line offers airfare from different cities. This can be priced individually for each person. 
4. Q: What if I need to come in the night prior to the cruise?
   A:   We have a group rate at the Embassy Suites Miami Airport for the 8^th of February, the night prior to the cruise, which includes a cooked-to-order breakfast, and a 2-hour manager’s cocktail party from 5:30-7:30 p.m. with free drinks! The ILR will also be having a no-host ice breaker at the hotel from 8:00-10:00 p.m. on the 8th of February where you can pick up your conference packets. The hotels in the Miami area are more expensive than some in other areas of the country but the amenities listed here are great assets at this hotel to help offset the $202.27 (includes 13% tax) for a King suite or two double beds. For more than 2 in a room, add $10 per person. BUT, these hotel reservations MUST be made through Diane at Cruises Inc. in order to get this rate. The Embassy Suites offers a free airport shuttle. We are also setting up transfers to the ship from the hotel and back to the airport from the ship for a $25 fee (includes both ways).
5. Q: What if I make my own airfare arrangements?
   A: If you make your own airfare arrangements, be sure you arrive in Miami prior to 12 noon on the day of sailing (Feburary 9), and plan to depart no earlier than 1:00 pm on the day we return (February 14).
6. Q: What other expenses will I have?
   A: The cruise includes all food and entertainment onboard. Your gratuities will already be paid. You will need to pay for soda pop or alcoholic beverages, although we are planning a cocktail party before dinner one evening that will include drinks. You will also need to pay for any shore tours you take in Key West and Georgetown, Grand Cayman.
7. Q: What if I need to cancel my cruise?
   A: The deposit is fully refundable up until final payment. Then there are cancellation penalties imposed by the cruise line and Cruises Inc. There is insurance available that can be purchased to cover this. Our cruise specialist, Diane, highly recommends it, as she is amazed at how often emergencies arise that necessitate cancellation. The insurance will also cover medical emergencies that arise up to $50,000 per person. It will cover emergency evacuation up to $50,000 per person. There is a loss of baggage coverage included up to $1,500 per person, as well as a $500 baggage delay if baggage is delayed more than 24 hours.
8. Q: Do I need a passport?
   A: Yes, as of January 2008 everyone needs a passport for entering or departing the USA by air or sea. Do not wait until the last minute to get yours as there is a HUGE backlog of applications. Your local Post Office is now a passport application agency.
9. Q: When is the balance due?
   A: The balance for the cruise, hotel, and transfers will be due to Cruises Inc. by mid-November.
10. Q: What is the smoking policy?
    A: Smoking is prohibited onboard in most areas. There are designated smoking areas in many of the lounges and on all open-air decks.
11. Q: Are there hair dryers on board?  Is there laundry service?
    A: There are hair dryers onboard. There is laundry and dry cleaning service available for a fee. No irons are allowed onboard.
12. Q: Is there a doctor onboard?
    A: Yes, there is a doctor onboard. There is a charge for medical services. If you have special medical needs, please contact Diane at Cruise Inc., so this can be handled with Celebrity.
13. Q: I notice the cruise line says "not responsible for changes of itinerary." What if we don't get into a port?
    A: The itinerary may be changed at any time by Celebrity. Every effort is made to adhere to the specifics ports for the cruise, but sometimes circumstances may necessitate a change or deviation.  All ports are subject to weather and sea conditions.
14. Q: Do the fees include all gratuities?
    A: All gratuties are included in the hotel and cruise fees except tips for the porters from immigration to the buses on your way to the airport. A $1 per bag is standard.
15. Q: Who do I contact if I have more questions?
    A: Contact Diane at Cruises Inc. – 888-583-2020 or dmcgillis923@msn.com.