Generally speaking you need less outfits than you think you do, so pack light! Also, if you do buy any bottles of alcohol or packs of cigarettes during shore visits, these are confiscated when you go back on board, and you collect then on the day before you finally leave the ship - if you are flying back remember you have to pack all bottles (over 100ml) in your hold luggage, which is taken during the night prior to disembarkation. Excursions can be very expensive if booked on board, but if you have congenial people at your dinner table it is usually possible to join together and hire a private taxi tour. In the Caribbean Islands the taxi companies are Govt controlled, so prices are all similar and a mini bus holds about 12 people, so they quote very reasonable prices for tours or trips to/from the beaches. Have a good time.

Hi Be careful when booking excursions. They are always overpriced compared to what you pay if you book them yourself. My wife and I have been on three cruises and we were ripped off on the excursions on the first one. Use the internet and do your research before you go. One a more positive note: cruises are still very good value for money if you can find the right deal and there are loads of deals out there. Enjoy

Haven't been on this specific cruise but have travelled many times on this ship. The cabin you have booked is excellent with plenty of facilities. Dress policy will be sent to you with your tickets but it is generally two formal nights each week (dinner jacket or dark suit) and other nights informal (jacket & tie). There are also "theme" nights eg Western, Red,white & blue, tropical. On the first and last nights the dress is casual. As far as tips are concerned the recommended rates are £2 per day for your cabin stewardess and the same for the restaurant staff. The staff are excellent and it is a very friendly ship. Full details can be found in the Fred. Olsen brochure and in their excellent website www.fredolsencruises.com. This website is especially useful. I hope you have a great cruise.