Group Cruising for Band Trips and other student performance tours

We just returned from a Rock The Boat Cruises on Carnival Cruise for our band trip and let me tell you about the experience!  As a Director, I was very excited to try something so different!!
When we got onboard, the food started! And it never stopped. You could eat all day and it was all included in the price! The dining room was a wonderful experience and the 24 hour pizza and ice cream was a hit with the students! Our cabins were very comfortable and the Cabin Steward took care of anything we needed!
We went to two ports of call. To see the history, culture and lifestyle of how people live in other countries was an educational experience the student travelers will remember for a long time. We visited a local school classroom and also had time to enjoy the blue waters! We did some shopping at a local bazaar where we purchased local handicrafts. The students had time to interact with some of the locals throughout the day.
Our band performance onboard was fantastic! We were in the main showroom lounge! Many people from the ship attended our performance and commented afterwards what a great job we did! After our performance we attended an educational seminar with Carnival staff about life onboard, the behind-the-scenes of ship life and how to find a career with a major cruise line. The students asked a lot of questions and were intrigued by shipboard life!
Swimming, Table Tennis, Karaoke, scavenger hunt, and a Club designed especially for students are just a small sample  of the activities onboard the ship. The Youth Programs for all ages are supervised by Camp Carnival Staff and each student group has their own dedicated area on board. So no matter the age, there is something for everyone!
All in all, this was a relaxing way to travel, the students had all the food they could eat included in the price and we got to visit different cultures and countries. We will be taking home a lifetime of memories! And we got plenty of photos to show our family and friends back home.
For more information on a performance cruise for your band, choir, orchestra or dance ensemble, contact Peak Performance Tours.

13 Helpful Things To Bring on Your Next Cruise

Packing for a cruise can be very exciting, you are going on vacation – yes!
But, it can also be a wee bit stressful trying to think of every little thing you might, or might not, need.
Well, we’re here to help. We’ve gathered a list of things you might not think to bring on a cruise. Items you might not have considered as useful, but can make all the difference in space saving and convenience!

1. Water Bottle. Travel water bottles are great to use around the ship and in port. In public areas, use a provided cup, fill with ice and water then pour into your larger container. Then you don’t have to pay a premium for bottled water while in port or lounging by the pool.
2. Coffee Mug. Travel coffee mugs are also a good idea as the coffee cups are small in the restaurants. If you’re like me, you might need a few cups to get the day started, so filling your personal travel mug is much more convenient than making multiple trips to the Lido deck.
3. Pre-Packaged Snacks. Sometimes it’s nice to just have a granola bar, or bag of chips. Bringing pre-packaged snacks is helpful to pack in your bag for days in port, especially if you have small children. Food items must be sealed in their original packaging to be permitted onboard on embarkation day.
4. Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer. This can be used for just about anything and travels well! Unroll and hang on the bathroom door and use for extra toiletry storage, jewelry, or just for shoes! There is limited storage space in cruise ship cabins, this helps to utilize what you do have. The best size is 19” by 64” long, allowing easy access to the door handle.
5. Magnetic Hooks or Clips. Most cabins will have metal walls, or a metal door. Hang wet clothes or accessories from magnetic hooks, or clip the daily newsletter with a magnetic refrigerator clip for easy visibility.
6. Battery-Operated Travel Clock. Most cruise ship staterooms do not have a clock, you’re on vacation time. However, if you like to have an idea if it is morning or night – or would like to take a quick nap before dinner and don’t want to sleep through the night – then a small travel alarm clock is a good idea instead of having to keep your phone out and charged. One that is battery-operated is best as the amount of outlets in the cabin is minimal.
7. Nightlight. Even if you have the fortune to sail in an ocean view or balcony stateroom, they can get quite dark at night. A small nightlight in the vanity outlet can make a huge difference, less toe-stubbing in the middle of the night. Or, some passengers like to bring small flashlights to use one less precious outlet plug.
8. Battery-operated iPod Speakers. Music is always a nice travel buddy. It’s nice to listen to your favorite song while sipping a glass of champagne out on the verandah, right? Or rocking out while getting ready for formal nights or playing lullabies for the kiddos during naptime. Just try not to rock out too late and be a nuisance to your neighbors!
9. Binoculars. Travel binoculars can be small, but make a big difference. You will be cruising the open seas so will have many opportunities to see pods of dolphins, whales or other marine life. Port gazing can also be fun while docked.
10. Thank You Notes. Seems strange, but you might not realize how much a small note of thanks means to the crew members that have worked so hard to make your vacation a memorable one. You can also give a thank you note to the new friends you’ve made onboard!
11. Highlighters. Ask your cabin attendant to deliver 2 copies of the daily newsletter, one to highlight and mark all the fun things you want to do the next day and one to keep unscathed for reference.
12. Travel First Aid Kit. These mini kits are always something handy to have on vacation. Kits can include over the counter medicine, band aids and thermometers.
13. Shower Cap. Okay, shower cap? Yes. This is a cool travel tip we heard: pack and store your shoes in shower caps to keep them from touching your clean clothes!

WHY TAKE A CRUISE ~ Top 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise

Cruise vs Land Package

Top Ten Reasons To Take A Cruise

  

Cruising offers you the Best Value in a vacation!   One price includes just about everything ... your cabin or stateroom, meals, activities, entertainment and more ... wide Variety of ships and destinations, Fun and Romance,  Fabulous Meals, Exotic Cuisine prepared by some of the top chefs of the world, Simplicity, New Horizons, Exotic Ports of Call, Opportunity to meet New Friends, Family Time, Pampering, No Guess Work, Hassle Free Days, Time to Relax, New Cultural Experiences and most importantly vacation Satisfaction! 

Whether you choose to cruise Mexico, the Bahamas & Caribbean, Europe, South Pacific, Asia, Hawaii, or the Panama Canal ... you will come home with memories that will last a lifetime and will probably book your next cruise before you get off the ship!  With over 25 years in the travel industry and traveling all over the world ... nothing is sweeter to me than a Cruise!

# 1 VALUE … One price buys your stateroom cabin, fabulous dining & meals, shipboard activities, entertainment and more.  No guessing what your vacation will cost in the end.  Now that is the ticket ... Cruising is a winner!

# 2 FUN & ROMANCE … Secluded beaches, en suite dining on a balcony overlooking the ocean and spa services for two are just some of the romantic options available.  Couples and Honeymooners will find a cruise to be one of the most romantic vacations ever!
# 3 FABULOUS CUISINE … Tantalize your taste buds with gourmet fare and specialty dishes featuring exotic ingredients.  Most ships even offer old standbys like pizza and ice cream or most ships offer spa cuisine for a healthy alternative. Depending on your mood, dine in a traditional luxurious dining ballroom setting, a small bistro or a casual eatery.  There are many choices on cruise ships.
# 4 VARIETY … With over 150 distinctive ships, 1800 ports-of-call and an unbelievable array of places to see and things to do; there is a perfect cruise for you.  We suggest that you add pre or post land tours if finances and time permit to make the most out of your vacation.  After all, you go all the way to the embarkation port, whether you fly or drive, you might as well see some of the local sights before or after your cruise.  We find that we usually want to spend a day or two before the cruise so we are rested and relaxed before boarding the ship and most definitely a few days after the cruise just to wind down a bit before returning home.  Then you really feel like you have vacationed.  One of the most enlightening cruises ever … cruising through the Panama Canal.  One of the most romantic … cruising the South Pacific, Tahiti, Fiji and the Southern Caribbean Islands.  A couple of the most rewarding cultural experiences … cruising Europe, the Red Sea and the Nile.

# 5 ACTIVITIES … Fill your days with sightseeing, sports activities, cultural lectures, educational tours led by naturalists and historians or simply lounge by the pool and relax. At night, enjoy live music, discos, dance extravaganzas, musical revues, gaming (gambling) or a quiet evening gazing at the stars.  One of the most incredible free experiences we ever had aboard a ship was staying awake all night long, lying out on a lounge chair and watching the sunrise as we entered the Panama Canal.  One of the most fun free experiences was being on a cruise while a professional ballroom dance group was aboard and several of us women being asked to dance by some of the professional dancers!  One of the funniest experiences ashore was taking a taxi on Martinique and the driver only spoke French, we used sign language to get to and from one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!  Want to know more about this beach just ask us! One of the most financially rewarding experiences aboard a ship was winning $750 from the slot machines while everyone was eating dinner!  There is a tip for you! 

# 6 SIMPLICITY … Do not come back from your vacation needing a vacation. Planning a cruise is simple; an experienced travel agent can handle all of the details. Make sure your travel agent has taken several cruises. Once you are on board, nearly all expenses are pre-paid... talk about hassle-free.
# 7 NEW HORIZONS … Fall asleep in one destination and awake to a new horizon... and you only have to pack and unpack once!  What did I say before ladies, this is the life!  In fact, our cabin steward completely unpacked our suitcases, and put my stuff away neatly everyday.  I wanted to take him home with me!  I loved having someone take care of me for a change!
# 8 PERFECT FOR JUST ABOUT EVERYONE ... Singles, Couples, Honeymooners, Groups and Family vacations.  Families love cruising. Children's programs, kid-friendly menus and tours of the ship will keep your children happy, while affording you some time alone.  Most all ships have kids club for children from ages 3 and above.  Some of the ships have babysitting service available for the special nights like the Captains Dinner.  One thing you want to make sure of if you are taking children is that you are booking a ship that offers an excellent children’s program.  Although we see this time and again, taking children under the age of 3 isn't the best choice of vacations. Pushing a stroller from one end of the ship to the other constantly is no fun for Mom or Dad and we would highly suggest a land-based vacation if you have children under 3 years old.  Just our opinion but based on years of experience with our own children and watching parents try to navigate the narrow hallways aboard the ships. 
# 9 PAMPERING … Regardless of your budget, all cruise lines pamper their guests with first-class service around the clock.  This is my favorite reason, pampering … you will feel like Queen for a Day when you cruise.  All you have to do is get dressed and show up when you feel like it.  No cooking, no cleaning, no phones, no work, nothing to do … but get dressed and leave the rest of life aboard the ship to everyone else.  Most women are so busy taking care of everyone else, they find it hard to believe the only thing they have to take care of ... is getting dressed!  And oh, what fun that is … you can dress up as much as you want … it is the perfect time to get yourself something very special to wear and show it off!  Now the Men … they are another story!  Although you might find some hesitation at first I have found that most men … after taking their first cruise want to do it over and over again.  A cruise eliminates the old standard questions they usually face on vacation and at home!  Where do you want to eat? Where do you want to go? What do you want to do?  On a cruise, all they have to do is get dressed and escort you into the dining room or walk you out to the pool … you get the drift here!   Oh, I almost forgot … they don’t have to drive or ask directions either … the Captain takes care of all of that!   It is a pampered carefree vacation experience for both men and women. 
# 10 SATISFACTION … It is a fact that cruises have a higher percentage of satisfied customers than any other vacation experience.  If after reading, all of the above if you don’t find a reason to take a cruise please let us know and we will find some more reasons for you!
BONUS REASON … Cruise for YOU …You can have the vacation of a lifetime, see the world, unwind, take a walk on the wild side, dance the night away, feast on fabulous cuisine, learn something new, make friends, bond with your family, and steal quiet moments with your spouse.  Whatever your heart desires, is yours, when you choose to cruise.
Singles, Honeymooners, Weddings at Sea, Family Reunions, Corporate & Affinity Groups, Special Interest Cruises, Company Meetings & Incentive Groups, Educational Seminars at Sea ... There are ships that fit every type of cruiser and we can help find just the right cruise for you!  Be sure & read our other guides for more details.

You haven’t lived until you’ve cruised!

You might also find our guides for Cruises vs. Land Vacations Comparison Chart Guide, Cruises Q & A (answers to most frequently asked questions about cruises), First Time Cruiser, Cruise Ship Star Ratings and Cruise Destinations.  See all guides by cruisegoddess 

Thank you for reading my guide. I hope you found these top ten reasons to cruise to be helpful & informative … If so, please click the YES button below.  If not, please be so kind as you drop us a line and let us know what we can do to improve this guide, keeping in mind that this is not our Cruise Q & A guide, this is just some of the top reasons to choose a cruise over a land based vacation!.  

New Orleans | Rock the Boat Cruises

ELATION (4 Day Departures from New Orleans) Itinerary Port of Call Cozumel

ELATION (5 Day Monday and Saturday Departures from New Orleans) Itinerary Ports of Call Progresso, Yucatan Cozumel

Travel changes people!

When "relaxing" is your kind of sport, you should "LIKE" this! #Carnival

Rock the Boat: Welcome Letter

Whether you wish to experience the thrill of performing onboard a beautiful ship from the fleet of the “Largest #Cruise Line in the World” or just enjoy the Carnival Cruise Lines “Fun Ship” experience, our expert “Rock the Boat” cruise representatives will work with your group leader to insure that your cruise lives up to all your expectations.

Call us today at +1 800-421-4159 to find out more about our newest deals and thrills! http://rocktheboat-cruises.com/home/

Do you agree? #adventure

Pre/Post Cruise Performances | Rock the Boat Cruises

Pre/Post Cruise Performances

Northwestern HS Choir performing at a local church in Cocoa

Please Call 800-421-4159 or

Email Info@RocktheBoat-Cruises.com 

for all Performance Opportunities!

Who would you choose?

Performance Information: Rock the Boat Cruises

The time has never been better to register your Instrumental, Vocal, Dance or Drama groups to perform onboard the “Fun Ships” of Carnival Cruise Lines.  Performing groups have the unique opportunity to enhance their cruise experience in two different ways:

Enjoy a fun, non-adjudicated performance onboard ship and/or in one of the exciting ports of call, OR elect your group to have an adjudicated performance and clinic onboard ship.

For an additional $35.00 per person, we will provide an appropriately experienced adjudicator to clinic each group, including written and taped evaluations with ratings based on a national standard.  A group minimum of 50 is required for groups electing an adjudicated festival performance.

Cruise Includes:
	Spacious Cabin with 24 Hour Stateroom Service
	All Meals including Fine Dining, Late Night Buffets, Casual Dining in the Sea View Bistro, as well as 24 hour Pizzeria and Ice Cream, Snacks and more!
	All Shipboard Activities and Entertainment including “Live” Entertainment, Swimming, Dancing, Health Club, Teen Club 02, Karaoke and much more!
	1 FREE Cruise Per 20 Paid Persons(Includes all Taxes, Fees, Pre-Paid Gratuities)
	“Rock the Boat” Lanyards for the entire group
	“Rock the Boat” Gift for Director
	Performance Onboard Ship (Optional)
	Commemorative “Rock the Boat” Award for Performing Groups
	“Rock the Boat” Service Host onboard to assist with Check-in, Performances and various needs (minimum 30 people)
	Prepaid Gratuities onboard Ship
	All Taxes & Fees
	$2,000,000.00 Liability Insurance Coverage
	1 Hour Karaoke Party
	Group Travel Video (for all students only)
	We also offer a Workshop with a Carnival Dancer for Dance Groups for 1 Hr for a flat fee of $100.00 per hour

• Cruise rates are per person, and do not include transportation. Inside Cabins will be allocated Category 4B, Oceanview Cabins will be allocated Category 6B. Space is limited on each sailing; please contact our office for additional information regarding availability.
• All Taxes, Fees and Prepaid Gratuities are included in your cruise package cost. These items are subject to increase by the Port Authority and cruise line and will be the only variable cost in your package.
• Although you are not required to have a chaperone in each cabin, each group must have at least one chaperone (over age 25) for each ten students.

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PERFORMING GROUPS:
All performing groups have the opportunity to perform onboard ship.  These performances are organized by “Rock the Boat” and are designed to enhance your cruise experience.
“Rock the Boat” performance groups receive the standard cruise package inclusions, as well as the following special considerations:

• Commemorative award for performance group
• Announcement of group performance date and time in daily cruise program (at the discretion of Carnival Cruise Lines)

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PERFORMING GROUP INFORMATION:
INSTRUMENT STORAGE/LOADING: U.S. Customs mandates that all instruments and equipment be registered, before sailing, with your local U.S. Customs Office using the U.S. Customs Form 4455.

The U.S. Customs Form 4455 is provided in the forms section of this website.
We recommend that instruments/equipment be stored in the performers cabin. If additional storage is necessary, a special storage cabin may be provided at an additional cost.

Assistance with instrument and luggage loading at the pier is provided by the stevedores. They are employed by the port authority and they will expect a gratuity. This gratuity is not covered under the pre-paid gratuity in your tour package. Carnival Cruise Lines or Four Seasons Tours is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage or instruments loaded by the stevedores or stored in cabin provided.

DATE & TIME: Carnival dictates the date, time and location of all performances. Rock the Boat staff makes every effort to arrange performance times while the ship is at sea.

STAGE: Whenever possible, performances take place in the main lounge, however, location is at the discretion of Carnival Cruise Lines. The stage in the main lounge on the Destiny, Triumph, Ecstasy, Fascination, Inspiration, Paradise, Sensation, Elation and Imagination is 35′ deep x 50′ wide. All have marley floors and a professional sound & light system.




Tap Dancing:
Carnival will allow tap dance groups to perform on-board our vessels, fleet-wide, in the Main Show Lounge only. To ensure the integrity of our stages, all taps must be properly tightened (loose taps and/or rough edges will not be permitted). Carnival will require our Stage Manager and the group’s Group Leader/Dance Instructor to inspect the stage before and after each performance, as well as inspect all dancers’ shoes prior to each of their performances. Tapping will not be permitted in any other area on-board our ships, fleet wide.
Clogging:
To ensure the integrity of our stages/dance floors/flooring, Carnival does NOT allow clog dancing in any area on-board our ships, fleet wide.

Barefoot Dancing:
To ensure the safety of our guests, Carnival does NOT allow barefoot dancing in any area on-board our ships, fleet wide. Guests should instead dance with soft soled shoes. There are no exceptions to this policy.

PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS: Each group is allowed one hour for performance (set up and tear down time is included in the 1 hour). Additional performances or extended length will be charged to the group at the current rate. Performers are not permitted to perform songs that include; verbal profanities, racial, ethnic, or sexual slurs, no drug or drinking related songs. Rehearsal time may be requested, however it is based on availability of performance space. Sound & lighting will not be provided for rehearsal. For our Rehearsals we provide a Stage Manager only.  If you need to use Carnival sound system it will be an additional $25 per hour.

LIGHTING AND SOUND EQUIPMENT: Theatrical lighting and sound equipment is provided by Carnival Cruise Lines. Sound equipment is capable of playing compact discs only, and is not capable of playing cassette tapes. A Carnival sound and lighting technician will be provided to assist with your production. Only the technician is permitted to operate the sound and lighting equipment. NOTE: It is suggested that a person from your group sit in the booth with the technician during the performance. This person can introduce your group from the booth or you may designate someone to make the introduction from the stage.

DRESSING FACILITIES: Where possible, uniform and costume changes should be made in the performer’s cabin prior to the performance. A backstage manager will be present to supervise activities on stage including changing areas.

PERFORMANCE EQUIPMENT: No equipment, music stands or risers are provided by Rock the Boat or Carnival Cruise Lines. Chairs and microphones can be provided for your performance and must be pre-arranged with Rock the Boat on your performance information form.

Don't just listen to what they say, go see!

What has been your biggest adventure?

Group Cruise Specialist!

All time favorite travel quote!

CARNIVAL CEO RECOGNIZES TRAVEL AGENTS

CARNIVAL CEO RECOGNIZES TRAVEL AGENTS ARE ESSENTIAL TO THE GROWTH OF THE CARNIVAL BRAND! “Agents clearly are critical to our success. They are essential for driving the industry forward,” said Donald. “Those professionals have helped us grow to the point where over half of U.S. cruisers sail on a Carnival brand.” #CarnivalCruise #RockTheBoatCruises

Who here loves to dance?

The Benefits of Traveling

Many people ponder what they should do for a vacation and I realized a lot of people don’t seem to share my views about traveling. I believe it’s very important to see the world and different cultures. It lets us open our minds to new things and we get to experience life in exiting different ways.

Traveling gives us the opportunity to disconnect from our regular life. You get to forget your problems/issues for a few weeks, it can also help you figure things out that you would not have understood without the distance traveling can give you. We all have crazy schedules, work and a family to take care of, going away alone or with some friends can give you distance and perhaps even make you realize how important these people are for you. Like the saying says: we never know what we have until we lose it.

Another great benefit is the relaxation you get to do. It’s nice to live life to its fullest and enjoy a stress free time with yourself. Going on vacation lets us recharge our “batteries” by disconnecting us from our regular life. When we come back we feel invigorated and we are happy to be back in our day to day routine. It’s a very good stress remover that has a lot more to give than most people are willing to accept.

Traveling increases our knowledge and widens our perspective. To view new customs, different ways of living is fantastic for the mind. It gives us a new perspective about life and especially our life, it can help us change some of our habits or even create new ones. When I travel I usually make it a point to try new food, some cultures don’t have fries in their diet and they are all skinny, others use spices to give taste and not oils or fats. Discovering different values and ways to get by in life is really interesting. You also need to visit exotic new places and discover what this wonderful world has to offer.

New experiences increase our resourcefulness by living situations you would never encounter at home, this is great experience for you when you come back to your routine. I have noticed that people who traveled a lot in life were ready to embrace change and have a natural ability of overcoming problems that others would frown upon.

When traveling with friends or family it creates memories for a lifetime. These memories will create a bond that nothing can erase no matter what happens with the friendship/relationship. It can also give a new perspective on the relationship and cement the bond forever. It also gives nice stories to tell people afterwards, you can create photo albums about your trips and when you feel nostalgic you can take an hour of your life and experience the trips again by looking at your pictures.

It’s never been this cheap to travel. With soaring oil prices the cheap travel era might be coming to an end. However there are still many budget airlines fighting for your dollar right now. With the internet and all the new technology, you can plan your trip exactly the way you want it. You can choose your budget, the duration of the trip and what you want to do. I suggest to read travel blogs and see what others are experiencing, you can save yourself a few hurdles by reading about their trip.

If you have some time off I suggest to take that trip and experience what life has to offer. Don’t wait or tell yourself there will be a better time to go. Take the risk, the opportunity and buy your plane ticket right now and leave. When you come back you won’t be sorry that you left, on the contrary you will be thinking of your next trip the second you come back from the airport.

Feel free to let me know how traveling helped you out, what new experiences you lived and how they helped you in your life.

Many thanks to our great dance teachers!

Rock the Boat: Performance Information

 

All performing groups have the opportunity to perform onboard ship. These performances are organized by “Rock the Boat” and are designed to enhance your cruise experience.

Book your performing group today! http://rocktheboat-cruises.com/performance-info/

The only frozen things we want this January!

If there's one word that you connect to TRAVEL, what is it?

Travel Agents / Tour Operators | Rock the Boat Cruises

Book Your School Group With Rock The Boat and Receive Credit With Carnival Cruise Lines!

Please Call 800-421-4159 or Email Info@RocktheBoat-Cruises.com for More Information!

What CAN'T you do on a Carnival Cruise?

You musn't be afraid to dream big!

Northwestern High School Choir

Northwestern High School Choir performing at a local church in Cocoa

Please Call 800-421-4159 or
Email Info@RocktheBoat-Cruises.com
for all Performance Opportunities!

Welcome Letter

Our goal is to continue providing the finest youth group cruises for both performing groups and non performing groups. We are extremely pleased to be working exclusively with Carnival Cruise Lines. Our relationship with Carnival affords our groups special considerations not given to other travel companies catering to youth groups. As proud recipients of Carnivals’ Winner Circle Award and Pinnacle Club Award for five consecutive years, we appreciate your patronage and look forward to the opportunity of working with you.

Whether you wish to experience the thrill of performing onboard a beautiful ship from the fleet of the “Largest Cruise Line in the World” or just enjoy the “Fun Ship” experience, our expert “Rock the Boat” cruise representatives will work with your group leader to insure that your cruise lives up to all your expectations.

The onboard accommodations and amenities will leave your group with memories that last a lifetime. The cruise experience alone will leave lasting impressions of beautiful ocean seas, while the gorgeous ports of call with beautiful beaches, unique cultures and atmospheres, will be the talk of your adventure when returning home. If your choice is to perform in one of the exciting ports of call or just play in the ocean while snorkeling and feeding exotic fish, our onboard “Rock the Boat” representative are experts in student group cruises and will assist to insure that all of your expectations are met. They will make suggestions and have answers for all of your group’s needs including: meeting spaces, performance venues, and attention to all the details for youth group cruisers.

You may choose from the nearest of the nine ports of departure or we will assist you in arranging transportation via airline with airport motor coach transfers or roundtrip motor coach  to get your group to the port in time to enjoy the first of the many great meals, including fine dining, casual dining, twenty-four hour pizzeria, room service and more, that will be available during your cruise.

To enjoy all of these wonderful experiences and make many more memories of your own, please contact your local group travel planner or contact a “Rock the Boat” representative.

Sincerely,

The “Rock the Boat Cruises” Team

Galveston

Triumph (4-Day Departures from Port of Galveston) Itinerary Port of Call Cozumel

Triumph (5-Day Departures from Port of Galveston) Itinerary – Monday Departure | Saturday Departure Ports of Call Progresso, Yucatan Cozumel

Note: Quad cabins on the Carnival Triumph are limited and based on availability!

Travel Performance Tips | Rock the Boat Cruises

Travel Performance Tips

GENERAL CRUISE TRAVEL TIPS

Effective June 1, 2009, the following rules take effect for cruise passengers:
U.S. citizens on cruise voyages that begin and end at the same U.S. port (closed-loop itineraries) must show proof of citizenship* and government-issued photo ID(such as driver’s license). A passport will not be required for passengers that fall into this category.

*Documents include: Original or certified copy of birth certificate; Naturalization papers; Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by Department of State.

All other passengers and/or itineraries (such as cruises which begin in one U.S. port and return to a different U.S. port or any cruise that begins or ends in a foreign port) will require a passport or other recognized document. For a list of accepted documents, see www.travel.state.gov

When traveling with a minor and both parents/legal guardians are not cruising, we strongly recommend bringing an original signed letter from the absent parent/legal guardian authorizing the minor to travel with you. This will expedite processing by the Department of Homeland Security. Please note that a notarized letter to this effect is required if debarking with children in Mexico.
In addition to the above requirements, all guests 16 years of age or older must provide an official photo IDs.

Proper travel documentation is required at embarkation and throughout the cruise. Even though a guest has completed registration using online check in, it is still the responsibility of the guest to bring all required travel documents. Guests without the required documentation will be denied boarding and no refund will be issued. Guest should check with their travel agent and/or government authority to determine the travel documents necessary for each port of call. Carnival assumes no responsibility for advising guests of immigration requirements. Guests under 18 years old will not be able to complete the online check in online. They will have to complete their check in at the pier.

Resident Aliens need an Alien Resident Card. Aliens need a valid Passport and a valid U.S. Multiple Re-Entry Visa. IMPORTANT! If you have anyone in your group that is a foreign exchange student or not a citizen of the United States, they must contact their Local Immigration office to determine what paperwork they will need. Any person not having the necessary travel documents will not be allowed to board the ship and will not receive a refund for their cruise.

All travel documents should be filled out and all luggage & equipment tagged with the provided Carnival Cruise Line’s luggage tags prior to arrival at the port. Each passenger must have in their own possession travel documents including proper ID and documents.

Student Chaperone Acknowledgment Form: Every student or chaperone must complete and return the respective Carnival Cruise Lines Acknowledgment Form.  Performing groups are exempt from the statement that guests under the age of 18 years must be accompanied in the same stateroom by an adult 25 years of age or older. We require that the group have at least one chaperone for every ten students.

Check-In: Upon your arrival at the port, you will be met in the baggage area by a “Rock the Boat” representative, who will assist with your check-in.

Sail & Sign: No cash is accepted for purchases onboard ship. All passengers must use a Carnival “Sail & Sign” card for all ship purchases. Your “Sail & Sign” account must be set up with a valid credit or debit card, cash or traveler’s check. Students cannot use their parents or guardians credit or debit card unless they are cruising with them. No business or personal checks of any kind will be accepted. The birth date of the cardholder is entered into the master computer on the ship and anyone under the age of 21 will not be permitted to purchase alcohol. Carnival Cruise Lines and your travel company are not responsible if a person under the age of 21 is caught with an alcoholic beverage. This is solely the responsibility of the group’s chaperones. A $50.00 minimum is required to set up a Sail & Sign account for each student under 18 years old.  A $100.00 minimum is required to set up a Sail & Sign account for each adult (18 years old and older).

Spending Money: You will need money for baggage handling, souvenirs, shore excursions, cab fare in port, and any beverages onboard ship not included with meals. Iced tea, water, milk, juices and coffee are included with meals. Juices & milk are offered at breakfast. Soft drinks onboard ships are approximately $2.75 per can which does not include gratuity. An unlimited Soft Drink Fountain Card can be purchased onboard ship at an additional cost.

Gratuities: Your prepaid cruise gratuities cover Dining Room Waiter, Bus Boy, and Cabin Steward. Tips are not included for curb side stevedores, with a $1.00 per bag/equipment being customary. Tips are not included for room service. $1.00 per person is customary. Beverage purchases onboard ship include gratuity.

Clothing: Casual attire is in order during the day. For Formal dinner nights, formal dress, business casual outfit or khakis with a button up shirt are suggested. A Tuxedo is also appropriate but not required. The dress codes for other evenings is business casual. Cut off shirts  are not permitted in the dining room during dinner.

Main Dining Room Sittings: All student groups are assigned late seating (times vary per ship). If you prefer early dining, this will need to be requested ahead of time to assure availability. Table assignments are pre-assigned by cabin and are sat together.

Medical Services: The ships’ infirmaries are equipped to treat minor non-emergency matters. A doctor is available to render services at a customary charge. Doctors are independent contractors. Groups are encouraged to bring their own health history/medical forms for each person in the group.

Special Needs: Carnival seeks, to the extent feasible, to accommodate guests with special needs so they are able to enjoy their ships and other facilities. For example, service animals are permitted onboard ship if prior arrangements have been made at time of booking. In situations where a guest with special needs, such as a guest in a wheelchair, would be unable to be comfortably accommodated due to vessel barriers and other criteria, they may find it necessary to ask the guest to bring along a companion to assist or make alternative arrangements.

Special Diets: Special diet requirements may be requested at least two weeks prior to sailing. You should discuss the method of preparation of menu items with your waiter or head waiter. There may be limitations in our ability to accommodate special orders. Kosher meals are not available.

Cabin Block: All cabins are blocked as close together as possible at Carnival’s discretion. Groups are guaranteed at least Category 4B. Oceanview cabins may be purchased for an additional charge based on availability. Some triple/quad cabins will be accommodated with roll-a-way beds at the discretion of Carnival Cruise Lines.

Ship Rules: We want your cruise to be a pleasant experience for everyone. The following rules must be enforced. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in the offender(s) being removed from the ship to make his or her own way home at his/her expense

1. No noise in cabin areas after 11:00pm
2. No running, congregating or consumption of food and beverage in the hallways
3. Abuse of physical property will not be tolerated
4. No abusive or offensive language
5. No drinking of alcoholic beverages for those under the age of 21
6. Purchase, possession and consumption of illegal drugs will not be tolerated
7. Large radios are not permitted onboard. Headphones must be used with radios on deck

Emergency Telephone Numbers: 1-877-225-7447. You must know the name of the ship and the sailing date (Date of Departure). Approximate cost is $25.00 – $30.00 for the first minute and $8.00 – $10.00 for each additional minute. This telephone number should only be used in the event of an emergency. Rates are the same for calling ship to shore. Calling Cards may not be used on board.

Ship Photos: The ship photographers will be taking candid and posed pictures of the passengers on the ship throughout the cruise. Group photos can be arranged for your group through your cruise escort and the ship’s photography department.

Limitations: No food or beverages of any kind may be brought off the ship.

Luggage: Upon arrival at the port, stevedores will take bags directly from the bus/car and deliver them to your cabin. Please be prepared prior to arrival to pay a gratuity of $1.00 per bag for this service. Also make sure all bags and equipment have Carnival luggage tags and are clearly marked with your cabin number. Carnival luggage tags will be provided for your trip. Please keep your travel documents with you and not in your suitcase. Carnival Cruise Lines is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged suitcases/bags or equipment.

Time to Travel!

Transportation Info | Rock the Boat Cruises

Transportation costs are not included in the package rates offered on this website. You may elect to coordinate your own transportation or advise your Travel Planner about your transportation needs.

Roundtrip Airline or Motorcoach Transportation…

As another service to our clients, “Rock the Boat” has developed a relationship with various transportation providers nationwide in order to provide our groups with the lowest Commercial and/or Charter Airline or Roundtrip Motorcoach Rates available. We do not require full payment at the time of booking and will work the transportation cost into your package payment schedule.

Airport Transfers

Roundtrip Airport Transfers are not included in the cruise price. Transfers may be purchased through our office and based on a per person rate. Please contact your Rock the Boat representative for specific rates for each Port of Departure.

When Booking Transportation on Your Own…

…and arriving by AIR: It will be necessary to make arrangements for local transportation during your stay. Local Transfers may be purchased through our office or you can make these arrangements on your own. If making your own arrangements, make certain you provide a detailed itinerary to the bus company in order to get a specific cost for their services.
…and arriving by MOTORCOACH or PRIVATE VEHICLE:  These vehicles are responsible for providing all transportation services during your stay. The group is responsible for making hotel reservations and payment for bus driver rooms. Drivers will not receive complimentary hotel rooms, meals, cruise or attraction tickets. It is your responsibility to provide a detailed itinerary to your transportation providers once you receive the final itinerary from our office.

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