Questions about cruising
Our answers to the questions cruisers ask us most, from booking and upgrades to what to pack.
Booking with Whitestar
How do I book a cruise with you?
Talk to one of our cruise specialists, by phone, by email or at our office in Fourways. We will guide you through the lines, ships, staterooms and dates, and send you a quotation.
Do you only book the lines on this site?
We specialise in the lines we represent: Cunard, P&O Cruises, Seabourn, NCL, Celestyal, VIVA Cruises, Explora Journeys, Azamara, HX Expeditions, Hurtigruten, AMADEUS River Cruises and The Moorings.
Will you beat an NCL quote?
Yes. We guarantee to beat any official written NCL quote in Southern Africa, for new bookings, under the terms of our NCL Price Beat Guarantee.
I am a travel agent. Can I book through you?
Yes. Our Nautical Network gives travel trade partners brochures, fact sheets, ship specifications and marketing tools, and our business development managers look after agents across the country and Africa.
Cabins and upgrades
Is a balcony worth it?
A balcony gives you a private connection to the sea, sunrise from your own verandah, and extra space when you want a break from the ship's energy. It matters most in scenic places like Alaska and the fjords, and less on a short city escape.
Are upgrades worth it?
Weigh the cost against the benefit and how you will use the space. Some travellers would rather have a basic cabin and spend on excursions; for others, a balcony gives the most visible return.
Can I upgrade my cabin after booking?
Usually, yes. Ask us (or the agent you booked with) for upgrade options and prices. Lower fares have more restrictions, and upgrades are subject to availability.
Where is the best cabin on a ship?
It depends on you and the ship. Midships on a mid to high deck is usually the most stable. The top categories are line by line: on Cunard it is the Queens Grill Suites, and on NCL the Haven Penthouse.
What are the upgrade options on Cunard?
Britannia Oceanview, Britannia Balcony, Britannia Club Balcony (with priority embarkation and the intimate Club dining room), Princess Grill Suites and Queens Grill Suites, with a personal butler at the top.
What are the upgrade options on VIVA Cruises?
Ruby Deck cabins, Diamond Deck cabins on the top deck with the best views, and Junior Suites and Suites with the most space and extra perks.
On board
What currency is used on board?
It depends on the line. On Cunard, for example, the on board currency is the US dollar.
Are gratuities included?
It depends on the line. Seabourn, Azamara, Celestyal, VIVA Cruises and HX Expeditions include gratuities; on Cunard they are payable on board.
What should I wear?
Dress codes vary: Cunard invites elegant wear after 18:00, Seabourn is elegant casual in the evening, NCL has thrown rigid dress codes overboard, and Azamara has no formal nights.
Have any other questions?
Ask us anything, and we will come back to you with the answer.