F.A.Q
Just a few of the many questions we have received!
Q: What do my Golf Days include?
All associated green and golf club fees, shared golf buggie (subject to availability), practice range and driving range with bucket of balls, competition events, personal guide, golf pro lessons (additional cost), photograph and video of participants including slow motion swing analysis (more extensive arrangements subject to purchase) welcome meet and greet, transportation to and from the ship & golf course, Free Golf Club storage on board, Certificate of play and trophy awards to competition winners (nearest the pin, longest drive and cash prizes to tournament winners). Player & guest get together's on board prior to golf days and our final day gathering to say goodbye to our new friends.
Q: Can I bring alcohol on board?
This varies by cruise line but generally the answer is no to beer and spirits, with a few exceptions on wine. Wine is normally limited to 2 bottles per cabin with a corkage fee applied automatically (check each cruise line policy) There are various 'drinks packages' offered by cruise lines that are a fantastic bargain and include all wines, spirits beer & cocktails. At security checks if you are found to have alcohol it will be confiscated where not within rules. Drinking age is 18 departing from European destinations and 21 for ships departing the USA.
Q: What is generally included and not included on board ship?
All meals and additional food available anytime 24 hrs. a day are included, entertainment in show lounges, in theaters are all free and many other ship board activities and facilities including room service, tea, coffee, milk and some soft drinks, pool towels, plus all the attractions such as pools, water slides, rock climbing walls, ice skating and more. The exceptions are specialty restaurants with a small cover charge, alcohol and some additional activities such as spa treatments and internet access. Shore excursions can be purchased on board. Ask us about drinks packages for substantial savings.
Q: What can I expect of the Golf Courses that Fairway Cruises uses?
We hand pick the best golf courses that are rated in the top 100 or 50 in the world and have the distinction of being a championship course or well known for being special. Most courses have been designed by golfing greats like Jack Nicklaus or Greg Norman & we have chosen them for their spectacular location. We have a special relationship with all Golf Clubs we use and have arranged for you to play on these exclusive courses for rates negotiated exclusively for Fairway Cruises so you get the best of this life time opportunity.
Q: Will I feel seasick?
Ahh we love this question! Everyone is different when it comes to motion sickness but as a general rule it must to be said that seasickness is fairly unlikely. Today's ships are Goliath's compared even to the recent past. Ships we use range in size from 50,000 GRT to 227,000 GRT - that's almost 5 times the size of Titanic! They are also stabilized with computer controlled ballast tanks and winged external stabilizers so most of the time you will not think you are moving at all.
Q: Can I smoke on board?
Smoking has become very restrictive. However, some smoking is permitted in designated areas of ships, like the casino. Smoking is not allowed in cabins and on some ships, that also includes your private balcony. E-Cigarettes are treated in the same way as traditional cigarettes. Some ships have dedicated smoking rooms or 'cigar lounges'.
Q: What travel Insurance do I need?
Fairway Cruises caution you to obtain travel and liability insurance before departure. Fairway Cruises may request proof of policy before you will be allowed to travel. Apart from medical emergencies and repatriation, in most cases, including preexisting conditions, cover can extend to extend to your golf clubs and liability while playing - including golf buggies, damage, accident etc plus the standard cruise, flight and trip abandonment. Follow the link on our website at the foot of every page, to get the best possible quotes guaranteed! You are subject to the cruise lines cancellation policies and their terms and conditions of passage.
Q: What should I pack for my trip?
Golfers will instinctively know what is required and the standards kept by most private golf clubs so please adhere to those general rules of acceptance you would expect. On board, ship life is casual but smart. There are normally two formal evenings during a cruise week where formal wear is required in the main dining room.
This is black tie for men and a formal dress for the ladies. A dark suit and tie will suffice for men.
Q: If I bring my family what facilities are available on board?
We actively encourage families and partners. There are a plethora of activities both ashore and on board to entertain and amuse you. Todays ships are packed with eneterainment options from live broadway style shows to a quiet piano lounge. Non playing partners will enjoy all there is about a luxury cruise. Children will never be bored or hungry, with organized kid’s clubs for various age groups up to 17. An in cabin babysitting service by trained staff is available after 10pm ensuring you will be comfortable and relaxed to enjoy the evenings well into the small hours!
Q: How do I take my own clubs and what about golf shoes?
Golf Clubs are placed in the aircraft hold and form the equivalent to one 'baggage' item. Some airlines do not charge but others do depending on destination. A cover is required that seals the clubs which are widely available and approved by airlines. Please have this cover for storage on board ship too. On board we will securely store and clean your clubs and shoes after each day’s play for free, and get them to and from the golf course so you don't have to worry. Caribbean golf clubs generally require plastic or nylon cleats/spikes on shoes.
Q: Are there disabled friendly staterooms available?
Yes. There are specially designed cabins available. Fairway Cruises actively encourages less able bodied to join us.
Q: Do I need any visa's or a passport?
Most cruises departing from the United States and returning there means most US Citizens do not require a passport or visa for the countries we visit. A full acceptable form of photo ID is required and/or a birth certificate. However we strongly recommend you obtain a passport. If you miss a ship departure you will certainly need a passport to fly on! It is your responsibility to check the requirements for the countries we visit.