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Life on board

We’re looking forward to welcoming you on board

Whether this is your first cruise with us or just the latest one, this handy guide tells you more about life on board our boutique ships. You will also find any additional answers in our FAQs.

A couple taking photos on the Promenade deck, Spirit of Adventure

What to expect before your cruise departs

Arriving 8-10 weeks before: Details about the included and optional shore excursions will be emailed to you approximately 8-10 weeks before departure.

The exact date your excursions will be bookable can be found on our Excursion Availability page.

All shore excursions are booked via our online Manage My Booking portal.

Arriving 7-10 days before: Final travel details and luggage labels. Please check these to ensure the information is correct. As our ships are ticketless, a cruise ticket is not required for boarding.

Venues

Our boutique ships feature a variety of facilities so you can spend your time on board however you wish.

Paying for items and services on board

Sterling is the currency on board, and we operate a convenient cashless system using your cabin key card for any purchases made on the ship. You will need to settle your on-board account at the end of your cruise, and the easiest way to do this is by debit or credit card.

Simply register your card with Reception any time before the end of your cruise. You will be able to view your on-board account on the interactive TV in your cabin.

By registering your card, you are agreeing to Saga obtaining pre-authorisation, and your bank may reduce the balance of funds/ credit available to you. Saga will release this pre-authorisation at the end of the cruise. With some banks it can take several days before the pre-authorised funds are made available to you again.

For purchases made off the ship, our Reception does offer a limited foreign exchange service of selected currencies, but we encourage you to purchase any foreign currency before your cruise.

A charge of £3 applies if you use personal cheques to settle your on-board account and/or purchase foreign exchange during your cruise. There are no additional charges for paying by credit card, debit card, traveller’s cheque or cash.

Our restaurants

Deciding where to dine is all part of our boutique cruise experience, and you have the freedom to choose from a variety of restaurants, every evening, and all included in the price.

You can make a reservation for the speciality restaurants between 0900 to 1700 by simply dialling our booking line 6363 or by visiting the restaurants from 0930 to 1030 or 1730 to 1815.

Cabin services

Room service: Available 24 hours a day. A special room service menu will be available. Your in-cabin interactive TV or Guest Directory will have further details. 

Laundry: There are two self-service launderettes with ironing facilities located on B deck and D deck. Washing powder and fabric conditioner are supplied free of charge. Opening times 0730-2130. A laundry and pressing service is available via your Cabin Steward or Butler. Please refer to the laundry request option on your interactive TV or form in your cabin, for details and prices. Due to safety reasons, please don’t bring your own iron on board.

Discover the Saga Difference

Two female friends looking at a mobile phone in the Britannia Lounge on Spirit of Adventure

Included travel insurance

Our fares also include comprehensive travel insurance and additional cancellation cover.

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A driver picking up guests outside a house, as part of our included nationwide shared chauffeur service

Included return chauffeur service

All of our cruises depart here in the UK, and getting to the port is easy thanks to our included return chauffeur service.

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Fine dining is included in the price

Included speciality dining

Enjoy included fine dining, served in one leisurely sitting. Even speciality dining is included in all our restaurants at no extra charge.

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Cocktails being placed on a tray by staff in the North Cape Bar on Spirit of Adventure

Truly all-inclusive value

From wines and beers to cocktails and premium spirits, say cheers with all-inclusive drinks included from day to night. All on-board gratuities and Wi-Fi are also included.

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Every cabin has a balcony

A private balcony for every cabin

Every cabin has a balcony as standard, so you will always have your own private outside space to enjoy the views and fresh air.

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Spirit of Discovery docked in Flam, Norway

Included excursions

Every cruise includes panoramic excursions in the price, along with the chance to join unforgettable optional tours.

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And much more...

  • An unlimited luggage allowance, and included porterage from the port to your cabin
  • Free Wifi in your cabin and around the ship
  • All on-board gratuities and service charges
  • Complimentary 24-hour room service
  • A wide range of entertainment in multiple venues, including lectures from guest speakers, theatre productions and recitals
  • Classes, activities and outside deck games
  • Fitness classes and use of the gymnasium, swimming pools and hot tubs
  • Spa access to hydrotherapy pool, infrared sauna and steam room
  • All port taxes, fees and charges