MSC Cruises
Set sail aboard MSC Opera from La Romana, Dominican Republic, on a voyage through the Caribbean and Antilles. Between exciting port calls, unwind at the MSC Aurea Spa, make a splash with poolside fun and enjoy evenings filled with live shows, dancing and casino thrill.
Your pre-cruise checklist:
Complete your online check-in (required for certain ships)
Print your cruise e-documents or e-tickets
Organize your travel documents including your passport, boarding pass, etc.
Make note of your ship’s boarding time
Inform the cruise line of any special requests like dietary restrictions, special occasions, etc.
Casual sportswear (including shorts, lightweight pants, swimwear, beach cover-ups and t-shirts) are the order of the day at sea and on shore, and comfortable shoes or sandals with low heels and rubber soles are recommended for strolling around the deck. In the evenings, smart casual is the norm and evening attire is suggested for formal nights (including cocktail dresses, gowns, jackets with ties or tuxedos).
Do your research
Familiarize yourself with your cruise ship by reviewing deck plans and learning more about its amenities and facilities.
Get the lay of the land
One of the best parts of going on a cruise is that you get to explore numerous destinations on one vacation. Research the various ports of call on your itinerary so you can decide which landmarks to hit – whether you want to swim in a waterfall or explore a local market.
There are a few recommendations to keep in mind on your cruise to ensure you can enjoy your time at sea to the fullest.
Embarkation
The ship will board passengers at specific times as outlined in your cruise documents. Make sure to check your documents so you know what time to board.
Valuables
Safes are available either in staterooms and/or at the pursers desk. The cruise line and Sunwing do not assume liability for any loss or damage of valuables left in your stateroom. We encourage you to place all of your valuables in your in-room safe.
Special services
Special services such as dietary requirements, wheelchair assistance or other special services must be requested at the time of booking. Make sure to confirm any dietary requirements with the maitre d’ on embarkation day. Refer to the Terms and Conditions for further details.
On board purchases
A cashless system is provided that allows you to sign for all on board purchases (except in casinos). These purchases will be added to your on board account and you will receive an itemized bill of all purchases at the end of your cruise. By providing your credit card in advance, your purchases will automatically be applied to your credit card. If you do not have a credit card, you must establish your on board account by leaving a deposit at the beginning of the cruise. Cruise lines accept most major credit cards. All on board expenses are in U.S. dollars except on Marella Cruises where British Pounds is the currency used.
Laundry and dry-cleaning services
Most cruise lines offer laundry services and some also offer dry-cleaning services (both available for a fee).
Ports of call
Cruise lines will make every effort to stick to the scheduled itinerary. However, circumstances may arise that necessitate alterations to the itinerary for any reason, at any time.
Phones and Wi-Fi
All staterooms have phones that allow direct ship-to-shore dialing. On most ships, you can access email at the ship’s internet café and Wi-Fi is available in select public areas. Charges for communication services are posted on board.
Shopping
Cruise lines have gift shops and boutiques offering everything from toothpaste to souvenirs, fragrances, cosmetics, jewellery, apparel and accessories, with some stores offering duty-free liquor.
Spa services and fitness facilities
Spa treatments are available on board along with fitness facilities and beauty salon services. Spa and beauty salon services are available for a fee and it is recommended that guests book appointments early to ensure they get their preferred treatment and time.
It is your responsibility to determine what documentation is required for travel to your destination including the various ports of call, and for your return to Canada. We will assume no responsibility whatsoever for passenger(s) denied carriage by the airline or refused entry into any country. Canadian Citizens can contact Foreign Affairs Canada at www.travel.gc.ca for assistance in obtaining this information. Citizens of other countries should check with the Tourist Board or Consular Office of the destination they are visiting. We strongly recommend that you carry a valid passport when travelling outside of Canada. Please note that several countries now require that your passport be valid for up to six months after the completion of your travel in order to be accepted by them as a valid travel document.
Cruising as a group
Cruise lines offer an array of different activities, entertainment options and amenities for various age groups, with something that is sure to satisfy everyone’s fancy.