EPE & Carnival Cruise Lines

FREQUENTLY  ASKED  QUESTIONS

Click on the Questions to see the Answers..

  1. Is There A Difference Between My Cruise And Pre-Cruise Payments?

  2. How Does The Payment Plan Work?

  3. What If I Register And Do Not Have A Cabin Mate?

  4. What If My Cabin Mate Fail To Register Or Does Not Make Their Payments And Is Canceled?

  5. What Is The Cancellation Policy?

  6. How Can I Get Cruise/Pre-Cruise Updates And Notices?

  7. Will I Receive A Confirmation Once I Have Paid For My Cruise?

  8. What Is The Benefit In Purchasing The Pre-Cruise?

  9. If I Didn’t Purchase The Pre-Cruise or Cruise Through EPE Can I Participate In The Activities?

  10. How Do I Book With The Official Airline?

  11. What Do I Do When I Arrive To Miami?

  12. What Are The Procedures For Checking Into The Hotel For The Pre-Cruise?

  13. How Do I Find The Directions To Events In Miami?

  14. What Do I Do With The Rental Car On The Day We Go To The Port?

  15. What Should I Pack?

  16. What Are The Requirements For Proof Of Citizenship?

  17. What are baggage guidelines and liability?

  18. What is the tipping policy onboard?

  19. Will I be able to purchase professional photographs on board?

  20. Can I make and receive phone calls on board?

  21. What are alcohol and consumption policies?

  22. What kind of beverages are available on board?

  23. Are there medical facilities on board?

  24. How Do I Get From The Port After The Cruise To The Airport Or Other Points?

  25. What If I Need Accommodations In Miami Prior To The Pre-Cruise And After The Cruise (Pre & Post)?

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING


Is There A Difference Between My Cruise And Pre-Cruise Payments?

No.  The Cruise and Pre-Cruise costs are invoiced for one total payment due to Ebony Pyramid.  

How Does The Payment Plan Work?

Once a guest pays their deposit, they are sent a Registration Package that outlines their payment schedule and minimum payment allowed, along with a final payment date.  The guest will also receive an Invoice and Statement that outlines their account.    Failure to meet the payment dates could subject the guest to  late penalties.

What If I Register And Do Not Have A Cabin Mate?

If you register and do not have a cabin mate, Ebony Pyramid will pair you with another guest that does not have a cabin mate.  EPE will attempt to pair you with someone of the same sex, but if it is not possible, you may be paired with someone of the opposite sex.  If you register after the booking has been completed, you must attempt to find your own cabin mate as it becomes more difficult, but not impossible, at this time.

What If My Cabin Mate Fail To Register Or Does Not Make Their Payments And Is Canceled?

If this occurs, EPE will pair you with another guest.  EPE will attempt to pair you with someone of the same sex, but if it is not possible, you may be paired with someone of the opposite sex. 

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

The cancellation policy is clearly outlined with guests.  If the guest violates the policy, EPE may cancel a guest without notice.

How Can I Get Cruise/Pre-Cruise Updates And Notices?

Once a guest registers they provide EPE with their address and email address.  Guests with email addresses will receive updates as they arise.  Guests without emails will not receive these updates.  It is the responsibility of each guests to provide updated and current addresses.

Will I Receive A Confirmation Once I Have Paid For My Cruise?

Once you have paid for your cruise, guests with email addresses will receive an electric confirmation.  Guests without emails may call to inquire about their confirmation.

What Is The Benefit In Purchasing The Pre-Cruise?

Purchasing the Pre-Cruise is a one-stop shop.  Your Pre-Cruise includes your lodging at an upscale beach resort.  The Pre-Cruise package also includes entry into special events.

If I Didn’t Purchase The Pre-Cruise or Cruise Through EPE Can I Participate In The Activities?

NO!  It is very unfair to those guests that supported EPE for us to allow just anyone to obtain the benefits they are paying for to occur.  If you did not purchase a package through EPE, you may not receive the same benefits.  You will not be allowed into EPE private events, but may attend the public ones in Miami only, at a higher cost than EPE guests.

How Do I Book With The Official Airline?

There is no Official Airline at this time. 

What Do I Do When I Arrive To Miami?

Once you arrive to Miami, you will go to the designated area at the Miami International Airport (MIA) to catch the shuttle to the hotel for the Pre-Cruise.  If you did not purchase the Pre-Cruise, you are responsible to arrange travel on your own.   

What Are The Procedures For Checking Into The Hotel For The Pre-Cruise?

To check into the hotel, just go to the registration counter of the hotel and check in under your name (it has been pre-arranged).  Once you have checked in with the hotel, you must check in at the Ebony Pyramid Desk located in the lobby.  Your hotel cost has been taken care of except for any incidental you may use.  The hotel information may be obtained from the link on the EPE website.

How Do I Find The Directions To Events In Miami?

When you check into the hotel, EPE will give you a Welcome Package that has an itinerary with directions to events.

What Do I Do With The Rental Car On The Day We Go To The Port?

Rental Cars are obtained as an option by guests.

What Should I Pack?

Casual attire is the order of the day, both on board and ashore. For one or two nights, a dark suit or formal attire is suggested. Also pack your wardrobe for the themes of EPE.

Note: Shorts and T-shirts are not permitted in the dining room area during dinner.

What Are The Requirements For Proof Of Citizenship?

Effective January 2007: All Guests Must Have A Passport!

(US Department of State waived this fact and is now allowing Birth Certificates, please check with State Department website for updates)

U.S. Immigration determines the correct documents which guests must have in their possession in order to travel. Proper travel documentation is required throughout the cruise and is the responsibility of the guest. Any guest traveling without proper documentation will not be allowed to board the vessel, and no refund of cruise fare will be issued. Documents must be presented at time of embarkation.

United States and Canadian citizens must provide proof of citizenship in the form of a passport (valid or expired for less than 10 years prior), original birth certificate, state issued certified copy of a birth certificate, U.S. Military ID, or original naturalization papers. In addition, guests that are 16 years or older must provide a photo ID. U.S. citizens needing to order their birth certificate may do so by visiting http://www.vitalchek.com/, an online vital records service.

Resident Aliens of the United States need to have their Alien Resident card AND passport (valid or expired). Aliens eligible to apply for admission under the Visa Waiver Pilot Program, must have a valid passport.

Aliens (non-citizens) are required to carry a valid passport and a valid U.S. Multiple Re-entry Visa. Guests will need to contact the consulates of the islands/countries they will be visiting, to inquire about necessary travel documentation. Immigrations determines the proper documents which guests must have available in order to sail.

For cruises that visit or transit in Canada, citizens of some countries may require a Visa. Guests must check with the Canadian Consulate for documentation requirements. This includes cruises to Canada (from New York) and Alaska cruises.

Please be advised that any guest WITHOUT proper documentation will be denied boarding without benefit of a refund. There are NO EXCEPTIONS.

What are baggage guidelines and liability?

Curbside porters are available at the pier during embarkation to take luggage to the vessel for delivery to your stateroom. Please be sure each piece of luggage is locked and has a tag listing your name, ship and stateroom number.  Customary tip is $3 per bag.

Curbside porters are not employees of Carnival; therefore, any problems are the responsibility of the guest. Carnival assumes no responsibility for carry-on luggage. Any luggage left at the pier will be forwarded at the guest's expense. Claims for luggage loss or damage must be made in writing to the debarkation personnel prior to leaving the pier area.

Is there a limit to the amount of luggage I can bring?

Carnival does not set a limit to the amount of luggage brought onboard as long as it fits in the guest's cabin. However, if a guest is flying to the port of embarkation, the airlines do have baggage restrictions. It is the responsibility of the guest to check with the airline directly.

Does Carnival have baggage liability?

We highly recommend that all guests purchase a vacation protection policy covering baggage and contents and accidents. Carnival's Cruise Vacation Protection Plan is a comprehensive program that is attractively priced.

If you choose not to purchase insurance, Carnival's liability is limited to baggage, contents and personal possessions to a maximum of $100 per adult guest. Carnival cannot accept liability for loss or theft of money, jewelry, or other valuables left in the stateroom or public areas onboard. Safe-deposit boxes are available in your stateroom, as well as the Information Desk, at no charge ($25 refundable key deposit). We highly recommend guests personally carry any valuables, medication or breakable items on and off the ship.

What is the tipping policy onboard?

All guests on each booking must prepay the gratuities, with the exception of children under two. Guests will have the discretion to adjust these gratuities based upon the level of service received during the cruise. This includes the option to adjust gratuities (up or down) for any individual on the Dining or Housekeeping staff. In order to do so, the guest will need to visit the Information Desk on board.

The dollar amount of the gratuities will appear in the Miscellaneous Charge field on the booking. The guest copy on the cruise ticket will indicate if gratuities have been paid.

The total amount will be $10 per guest, per day, which breaks down as follows:

  • $5.50 pp/pd for Dining Team Service (Headwaiter and Waiter)
  • $1 pp/pd for Bistro Service (Waiter/Cooks)
  • $3.50 pp/pd for Cabin Services (Cabin Steward)

Tipping the Maitre D' is strictly at guest's discretion, based upon services rendered. For guests who wish to extend this gratuity in cash, an envelope will be available on the last evening of the cruise.

Tipping still applies regardless of the dining options selected, such as eating at the casual dining restaurant or utilizing room service.

Bar Waiters, Deck Stewards and Bell Boys - Certain personnel, as noted above, may be tipped as service is rendered. A 15% gratuity is automatically added to beverage purchases which the guest may adjust appropriate to the service received.       

Will I be able to purchase professional photographs on board?

Yes.  Shipboard photographers take both candid and posed shots all throughout the sailing. The photos are then put on display, and may be purchased on your Sail & Sign card. Prices are based on photo size. Special requests, such as portraits, can be made by appointment and are available for a fee.

Film is available in the Duty-Free shops for purchase. One-day developing service is available for 35mm film and disposable cameras. Panorama and APS Advantix Film can be processed on select ships. Drop-off boxes are located at the Photo Gallery. Check with the Photo Manager for details.

Can I make and receive phone calls on board?

You may direct dial your family and friends via satellite from the comfort of your stateroom at any time during your cruise. You may also use the ship's Radio Room any time the ship is at sea. Additional information, instructions and charges are found in the ship's directory in your stateroom. Please note that since communications at sea are via satellite, guests cannot use calling cards or credit cards, nor dial collect.

Your friends and family may also call you via Maritime Telecommunications Network (MTN) Shore-to-ship Telephone Service by calling

Within the U.S.:1-877-CCLSHIP (1-877-225-7447)            

Canada and outside the U.S.: 1-732-335-3284.

The caller needs to have available the ship name and the guest's name. The rate is  a minimum of $9.50 per minute (subject to change) within the U.S.  Additional long distance charges may apply to callers outside the U.S. The charges will be applied to the caller's credit card: MasterCard - Visa -American Express - The Discover Card - Diner's Club. 

What are alcohol and consumption policies?

Guests are prohibited from bringing alcoholic beverages on board the ship in the port of embarkation (with the exception of wine and/or champagne). If the wine and/or champagne are brought to the Dining Room for consumption, a $10.00 corkage fee will be charged to the guest. Otherwise, the guest may drink the wine and/or champagne in the privacy of their cabin only. It may not be brought into any public lounge or room.

Alcohol purchased in a port-of-call: Alcoholic beverages purchased in any port-of-call will be appropriated at the gangway and stored onboard until the last night of the cruise, upon which it will be delivered to the guest’s cabin.

Alcohol purchased in ship gift shops: Alcoholic beverages of any kind purchased in the ship's gift shop will also be stored onboard and delivered to the guest's cabin on the last night of the cruise.

Consumption of alcohol on board: The minimum age for the purchase and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages while on board is 21 years of age. In the event that Bar/Restaurant/Gift Shop Staff are in question that the guest is under 21, they shall request picture identification prior to serving said guest.

Note: The legal drinking age onboard is 21 and is strictly enforced. We do not allow the purchase of drinks or bottles of liquor by adults for minors. Possession of alcohol by a minor will not be tolerated and any found will be confiscated, even if found in cabin.

What kind of beverages are available on board?

Carnival’s shipboard bars boast an extensive beverage menu, including many specialty and exotic drinks.

Beer - Priced between $2.95 and $5.95 per bottle, depending on whether it is domestic, specialty or imported.

Wines and champagne - By the glass, range between $4.00 and $5.75.

Specialty cocktails, frozen drinks and breezers - Priced between $3.25 and $4.50 each.

Also available are shooters, cordials and liqueurs, along with a variety of scotches, gins, vodkas, rums, and just about anything else you can imagine. We also offer a selection of bottled waters, specialty coffees and non-alcoholic beverages.

Guests may also purchase a Fountain Fun Card which will allow them unlimited soft drinks for the duration of the cruise, at a one time purchase price (including gratuities). With the exception of room service, the Fountain Fun Card may be used wherever beverage service is available.

Are there medical facilities on board?

Yes. Each ship has an infirmary that is manned by one to two doctors and two to four nurses - depending on the size of the ship - who are on call around the clock. The infirmary staff will assist you and provide medical attention during your cruise, including dispensing prescriptions should the need arise. There is a fee for the doctor's visit, as well as for any prescription drugs. Infirmary hours are listed in your Carnival Capers.

What are the licensing requirements for doctors aboard your ships?

Doctors on our ships are required to have a current and valid medical license from the U.S., one of its territories or Canada, or have full registration with the British General Medical Counsel of the United Kingdom. In addition, doctors must demonstrate competent skill levels in basic and advanced cardiac life support and cardiac care. They are also required to have experience in general medicine or general practice including emergency or critical care, and have one to three years of clinical experience and minor surgical skills, and board or similar international certification is preferred.

Is there an organization that regulates medical treatment on cruise ships?

Yes. The International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL), an industry organization comprised of 17 member cruise lines, has set forth guidelines developed in consultation with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) for medical facilities, staffing, equipment and procedures for medical infirmaries aboard cruise ships. Carnival complies with ICCL guidelines.

How Do I Get From The Port After The Cruise To The Airport Or Other Points?

EPE has pre-sold transfers from the Port of Miami to Miami International Airport (MIA).  If there are spaces available, EPE will sale the spaces throughout the event.  If you are going to locations other than MIA, you may purchase transfers from the ship's information desk

What If I Need Accommodations In Miami Prior To The Pre-Cruise And After The Cruise (Pre & Post)?

Pre Pre-Cruise and Post Cruise lodging accommodations will no longer be provided by EPE.

 

 

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