Cougar Tailgate at Sea...Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear for the week?

Alaska has a range of weather in late August. Plan to bring layers to wear for port excursions. Generally speaking, it will start out cooler in the morning, and warm up throughout the day. Bring rain gear such as a poncho or pull over.

The dining room aboard ship has a suggested dress code for dinner. Officially, there is one “formal” night, and two semi-formal nights. If you would like to dress for dinner, pack the appropriate attire. If you choose not to, that’s fine too. The only hard and fast rule is that jeans, swim wear, and shorts are not allowed in the dining room after 5:00pm. If you don’t care to dress up for dinner, but don’t feel appropriately dressed, there is always the casual dining found in the Lido Café or complimentary room service.

Do I have to tip my cabin steward or dining room staff?

Holland America will add $10 per person, per day on to your ship board account to go to the cabin stewards and dining room staff. This takes all of the guesswork out of the tipping scenario. If you feel that your service doesn’t justify this gratuity, you may always have this removed from your account during the cruise. On the other hand, if you feel your service was beyond expectations, you may always tip the person or persons that made your cruise memorable. Please note: All bar and wine service has a gratuity of 15% added to the bill. Don’t over tip.

Can I do laundry aboard?

Yes, you can send clothing out to have them cleaned and pressed. There is also a self-service laundry on the ship.

Is there internet access aboard the ship

Yes, there is an internet café aboard ship for a fee. It’s not inexpensive, with plans ranging from 75 cents a minute if you pay by the minute. If you purchase a bulk plan, the cost is less. There are internet spots in every port of call if you need less expensive access.

Do I need a passport to cruise?

Yes, effective in January, 2008, all cruise passengers reentering the United States will need a passport. The application time has been reduced dramatically, and should take less than two months to acquire during regular channels. Passports are valid for 10 years and can be obtained at www.travel.state.gov/passport.

Can I bring my own alcohol aboard ship?

Yes and no. The official cruise line policy is that you may bring one bottle of wine or champagne aboard to consume on board or to bring to the dining room ($15 corkage fee applies in the dining room). You may not bring your own alcohol aboard or it may be confiscated. That being said, I have packed my own bottles in my bags to be loaded onto the ship with no problems. Some cruise lines will go through your bags, confiscate your alcohol, and return to you at the end of the cruise. Holland America will does not go to these lengths at this writing.

Can you find me a room mate?

If you are traveling solo and do not wish to pay the single supplement, you may list yourself on the Cougar Tailgate page at Yahoo.

You may join this Yahoo group and post your contact information.

How large are the cabins?

Cabins range in size from 154 square feet for inside stateroom on up to 510 square feet for a suite. They are smaller than your typical hotel room, but the idea is that you are either spending your time in port, the dining room, the casino, the show lounge, on deck, etc. If you plan to do any private entertaining, you should consider a suite for the additional room.

Do I have to worry about motion issues on this cruise?

Though you are sailing in the North Pacific, most of this itinerary is somewhat protected by land. The size of the ship and the stabilizers limit the motion while at sea. If you are affected by motion, I suggest you investigate some of the over-the-counter remedies, such as Bonine or the Scopolamine Patch.

Is there an age limit for this event?

Yes, the cruise line will not allow passengers under 21 years of age to sail unless they are accompanied by a chaperone of at least 25 years of age. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Can I bring my kids?

Children are welcome to join the group. Holland America offers many programs for kids from 3 to 17 years of age that will keep them entertained. Some cabins will accommodate a 3rd or 4th guest. Those prices are outlined in the pricing section.

What shore excursions are available and how do I book them?

Each port has a wide variety of excursions available that you can purchase in advance of the sailing or on board ship. Some sell out in advance, making advance purchase a good idea. Once you have been assigned a confirmation number, you may access your reservation to reserve excursion. These excursions range from walking tours of a wildlife preserve to river rafting to salmon fishing. Check here For a complete list.

Where can I park my car for the week?

Republic Parking operates a secured lot at Pier 30. The rate is $12 per day or $84 for the entire week.

Parking at Terminal 30 Cruise Facility

Fee: $12.00 per day. You may prepay for parking online through Republic Parking at http://www.rpnw.com.  (When you prepay, parking is guaranteed; no reservations needed.) 700 parking spaces are available on-site directly adjacent to the passenger terminal. Oversize and RV vehicles are welcome. Driving directions to Terminal 30 Cruise Facility

What if I require a special diet?

Let me know. I will pass the information on to the cruise line. They accommodate a wide range of dietary requests, including vegetarian, kosher, etc.

Can I book this with my own travel agent?

To qualify for Tailgate at Sea discounts and participate in group events, this cruise must be booked with Northwest Travel Service. Identification will be required at all events aboard ship.

What is there to do on board ship?

The possibilities are endless. The ship has 2 swimming pools, a full spa, numerous restaurants, at least 12 bars, live music and shows, a full casino, sport court, lectures, cooking demonstrations, first run movies, boutique shops, not to mention the majestic scenery along the route.

Is there a fitness Center aboard the ship?

Yes, there is a full fitness center aboard the ship. In addition to the work out area, there are classes offered that include Pilates, Yoga, and spin classes.

Last Updated: Tuesday, April 29, 2008