Frequently Asked Questions

This section was designed to answer some of the frequently asked questions concerning small ship cruising with Pearl Seas Cruises. Just click on one of the questions below to find an answer. If you do not find the answer you are looking for below or if you need more details, please do not hesitate to contact us at 1-800-981-9146.

General

Why small-ship cruising with Pearl Seas Cruises?

With no more than 210 passengers on board, and designed to provide smooth travel through protected waterways, sheltered harbors and magnificent rivers, Pearl Seas Cruises’ ships offer a perspective larger ships cannot. Your ship will not only provide you with comfort and convenience, but also with the utmost in safety, complying with all new regulations which older ships do not. We bring you to the best of North America, to places of natural beauty as well as cultural and historical interest. With fewer passengers onboard, we never overwhelm the local communities we visit. A refreshingly relaxing atmosphere prevails onboard. This intimate ambiance is perfect for both congenial camaraderie and quiet relaxation. Friendly, professional crew members offer an extraordinary level of gracious hospitality and personalized attention to discerning passengers. No matter which itinerary you choose with Pearl Seas Cruises, you’ll experience the beauty, brilliance, and thrill of cruising on a small ship.

How do I book a cruise?

Pearl Seas Cruises cruise specialists are available to take your call six days a week at 1-800-981-9146:

Monday - Friday: 9:00am - 5:30pm EST (2:30pm Pacific Time)

Saturday: 9:00am - 4:00pm EST

Sunday: Closed

You may also contact your travel agent to make a reservation. It is recommended that reservations are made as far in advance as possible to ensure the availability of the cruise and stateroom of your choice.

What is included in fare?

Pearl Seas Cruises’ per person fare includes passage, dining service, snacks, complimentary cocktail parties and entertainment aboard the ship. Fares do not include shore tours, port charges and fees or gratuities. A fuel surcharge may be charged for a cruise not yet sailed.

What is recommended for gratuity?

Gratuity is entirely at your personal discretion. Tips are generally given to the Hotel Manager near the end of the cruise. They are then divided equally among the stewards and deckhands. Tips generally average about $125 per person for a seven-night cruise. Stewards and deckhands do not expect and cannot accept tips directly. Credit cards, personal or travelers checks, and cash are accepted. If you choose to pay by credit card, please contact the Hotel Manager at least one day before the end of your cruise.

Is there a dress requirement?

Casual resort attire is recommended both on the ship and ashore. For dinner, men’s clothing might include a sport shirt and slacks, with sport coat or sweater. Women might find a sweater and slacks, or dress appropriate. Pearl Seas Cruises also recommends you bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, light rain wear, and a jacket for cool evenings.

What accommodations are available for solo travelers?

Pearl Seas Cruises welcomes solo travelers and features a select number of single occupancy staterooms available on its ships. One person occupying a double stateroom will be charged 150% or 175% of the double occupancy rate depending on the type of stateroom chosen.

Is there an elevator onboard?

Yes, all Pearl Seas Cruises’ ships have elevator service to all stateroom decks.

Can you accommodate special dietary requests?

Pearl Seas Cruises will work to cater any dietary needs. Please tell your cruise specialist approximately two weeks prior to your cruise so that we may plan accordingly. Refrigeration is available to store insulin or other medications requiring protection.

Is there cellular service onboard?

Cell phones can be utilized onboard but service is not always available and can be spotty depending on weather and location and can also vary depending on your service provider.

What is the smoking policy?

Smoking is prohibited on the ships.

How many passengers does the ship accommodate?

Pearl Seas Cruises’ ships are small and intimate and only carry up to 210 passengers.

How old is the ship?

Pearl Seas Cruises is proud to feature the Pearl Mist, brand new in 2014.

Pre-Cruise

What are your packing recommendations?

Pearl Seas Cruises recommends you pack comfortable resort attire and the following:

Comfortable walking shoes
Sunscreen
Hat
Light rain wear
Jacket for cool evenings
Camera
Photo identification

Is there a limit on how much luggage I can bring?

Pearl Seas Cruises places no restrictions on luggage. However, it is recommended that you bring as few bags as necessary. Suitcases less than 10 inches high may be stowed under your bed.

Does Pearl Seas Cruises have special rates at certain hotels?

Pearl Seas Cruises works with leading hotels at all departure points and offers Pearl Seas Cruises passengers a special discounted rate. Specific recommended hotels are listed in your pre-cruise booklet and vary depending on itinerary.

What airport should I plan to fly into?

All departure ports are located near major airports. Please reference your pre-cruise booklet for a list of airports recommended for travel to your particular cruise departure point.

Does Pearl Seas Cruises provide transportation services to and from the ship?

Several of our partner hotels offer complimentary shuttles to the ship on the morning of your cruise. We do offer a transfer to the airport at the end of your cruise for an additional charge.

Cruise Specialist

If you have any questions in the meantime, please call a Cruise Specialist

1-800-981-9146

6 days a week

For further information or questions, please contact Customer Service at 1-888-891-8334. Our offices are open Mon-Fri, 9:00am to 5:30pm Eastern Time (2:30pm Pacific Time) and Sat, 9:00am to 4:00pm Eastern Time.

Where We Cruise

Cuba Cultural Voyage

Great Lakes & Georgian Bay

Great Lakes

Canada & New England