FAQ's

Thank you for your interest in our Square Dance Cruise to Panama.  We have compiled a list of Frequently Asked Questions that you may be curious about.  Keep an eye on this page as it will be updated regularly! (last update April 11, 2013)

Specific FAQ's about booking this cruise:


Q)  When will the dance schedule be ready?
A)  As we get closer to the sail dates, all the details will be made available.  We are aiming to dance at least once on all “At Sea” days and possibly on a few “Port” days too.    

Q)  What about dining?  Is everyone dining together on a daily basis?
A)  At time of booking, let us know your preference of "Early", "Late" or "Freestyle" - i.e. eat whenever you want.  Early dining tends to book up first.  Your meals are up to you to enjoy on your own or with your friends.  The only organized event we have is a “Meet and Greet” Cocktail Party where you will join your fellow dancers for some fun.

Q)  When and where is our Cocktail Party?
A)  Princess requires a minimum of 32 guests in order to host a Cocktail Party and once we reach this minimum we will make the arrangements directly with Princess for the time and place.  We will let you know as soon as we know!

Q)  What happens if not enough dancers sign up?
A)  The "magic" number is 8 couples or 16 guests, enough for 2 squares.  If less than 16 dancers sign up then we can't promise as much dancing as if 16 or more sign up …..

Q)  I've never square danced and would love to learn… can I still join this group and dance too?
A)  Non-dancers are more than welcome to join our group.  For non-dancers interested in trying some dance steps, we will give you that opportunity at least once during the cruise.  We'll also give you the information you need to find dancing in your home area, once the cruise is over.

Q)  Are there any organized shore excursions for the dancers?
A)  No.  This is your cruise and your vacation so you can choose what you wish to do on your Port days!

Q)  I am living oversees... can I still join the group?
A)  Unfortunately, Princess Cruises does not allow North American travel agents to sell outside of North America.  However, oversees dancers may purchase the same cruise from their local travel agent and then pay a "dance fee" to dance with our group.  Contact us for more information.

Q)  Can I book this on my own and then join the group after the fact?
A)  No.  In order to take part in our Square Dance group activities, you must book this cruise through us at our group rates.

Q)  Can I book a stateroom which is not “blocked” in your group? 
A)  Understandably, we could not block every stateroom type and category on the ship, so we picked a good range of Inside, Outside and Balcony cabins and “locked-in” our group rates for a limited time.  If you wish to have another stateroom not in our block (such as a Suite) then Princess will review it on a case-by-case basis and advise if we can bring it into the group.

Q)  I found a lower rate elsewhere, can you match it?
A)  Our category rates are fixed as listed in our flyer.  We only have a certain number of staterooms available for a limited time, so once the available staterooms are filled or our time-frame is up, then the rates will change.  Best to book early for the best staterooms at the best price!! 

Q)  What extra costs can I expect onboard the ship?
A)  As with every cruise line, there are extras to expect, such as:  gratuities ($11.50 per person / per day), specialty dining – some restaurants onboard the ship have a “cover” charge per person; alcohol and drinks such as bottled water, juice, fancy teas and coffees; spa treatments; shopping; internet or business centre use, etc.  The cruise line also reserves the right to add in a Fuel Surcharge. 

Q)  What do I need in order to book?
A)  Each guest needs to fill out the "Reservation Form" and fax or email it to us.  Make sure to include your name exactly as it is listed in your valid passport, your complete home address, telephone, email and other contact information, the name of the passenger you wish to share your stateroom with, the type of stateroom you wish to have, your credit card and the amount to be charged, etc.  Look at the tabs on the right of this page and you'll see "Booking Form"... click there for a printable version of the Form.

Q)  What documents do I need?
A)  Every guest needs a valid US or Canadian passport with a minimum of 6 (SIX) month’s validity beyond your travel dates, i.e. it cannot expire before August 2014.  Your passport must be in PERFECT condition – no tears, rips, water damage or any other damage, and must have multiple blank pages.  It is the responsibility of each passenger to verify documentation requirements direct with the embassy or consulate of travel.   Please note that customs and/or immigration officials can deny a person entry into their country at their own discretion.

Q)  I've signed up and now I have to cancel... what do I do?
A)  This is why travel insurance is essential and must be purchased at time of deposit!!   Please refer to the Travel Insurance tab on the right side of this page for the specifics on the insurance plans that we offer.  Your deposit is refundable right up to September 1, 2013 minus a $100 administration fee per guest.  After this date, your deposit becomes non-refundable, and after the final payment date of October 1, 2013 your cruise is 100% non-refundable.  Insurance is so important – make sure you are covered in case of an unexpected emergency!  

Q)  I have severe allergies, can I be accommodated?
A)  Please advise us of any allergies and mobility challenges ASAP - we will make sure to take note and advise Princess and the proper departments onboard the ship.   

Q)  I am celebrating a milestone during this cruise – can we do something special?
A)  Absolutely!  Please let us know as soon as possible so we can make special arrangements for you.  Princess offers a great selection of products and services – check the link here for the current prices:  http://www.princess.com/learn/onboard/gifts_services/index.jsp 

Q)  What clothing should I pack?  
A)  Just regular cruise clothes... aim for easy and light!  It's a vacation, so you can leave the twirly skirts at home :)  There are two formal nights during the cruise, so you can dress up for this.
  
Q)  Why should I join this cruise?
A)  Combine your love of cruising with your love of Square Dance!  Make new friends and experience the Princess hospitality all the way to Panama and back again

General FAQ's about what to expect on Princess:
The links below will open to the general Princess website:

Pre-Cruise
  1. Preparing for your cruise - here
  2. Before You Leave - here
  3. What To Bring - here
  4. Travel & Transportation - here
  5. Shore Excursions - here
Onboard
  1. Onboard Experiences - here
  2. Dining & Nightlife - here
  3. Keeping in Touch - here