Huskies at USC Trojans, Frequently Asked Questions

September 26th to October 3rd, 2010

Shipboard Accommodations: What are the differences in accommodations aboard ship?

Each cabin aboard ship comes with two double beds that will convert to a queen bed if desired. Some of the larger suites have king beds. There are some cabins that will accommodate a third or fourth person in the same stateroom utilizing bunks which fold down from the wall.

Accommodations aboard ship vary in size, location, and amenities. Some factors to consider in the selection of your cabin are view, size, location aboard ship, proximity to stairways, elevators, and public areas. Another factor to consider is whether you plan to use your cabin and verandah for entertaining. The suites are large enough to host a small party. The Verandah Staterooms are large enough to host a few people over for drinks or appetizers. A verandah cabin is nice if you like to have your breakfast outdoors or just to walk outside to see the view or have a breath of fresh air.

Documentation: What do I need to bring for ID?

The best ID you can use for any cruise is a passport. The process to obtain a US Passport is easier than it ever has been. Contact the US Passport Agency for more information. You may also obtain an enhanced drivers license which is accepted for travel in and out of Canada and on most cruise lines calling on Canada and Mexico.

Additional Costs: What is included in this cruise?

You cruise includes your accommodations aboard ship, all meals, and most entertainment. This includes all fares, taxes, and fees. Holland America reserved the right to add a fuel surcharge of up to $8 per passenger/day, though they have been waiving these charges to remain competitive with other cruise lines.

Gratuities aboard ship: How much should I tip?

There are suggested guidelines provided by the cruise line. Ultimately it is up to you to decide the level of gratuity to provide your server, maitre d’ and cabin staff. The cruise lines have all gone the route of adding the suggested amount to your shipboard account ($11 per passenger, per day). This has become standard practice in the cruise industry. If you prefer to tip the individuals that are providing service to you directly instead of paying via the ship, you may do so by having the amount removed from your statement with the purser once we sail. It is important to note that a gratuity of 15% is automatically added to bar service aboard the ship. There is no need to provide additional gratuity for this.

Dress Code: What is the suggested dress in the dining room?

Most cruise lines have at least one formal night on a seven day sailing. Because this is a shortened sailing, there are NO FORMAL NIGHTS for this four night cruise. Each evening is designated CASUAL dress. Country Club Casual is the term used for the dress code. Slacks, open collared shirts, pantsuits, etc. No need to bring a coat and tie unless you want one. The only hard and fast rule is “no shorts or tank tops” in the dining room. If you want to bring something fancy to wear, it is entirely up to you.

What is there to do aboard ship?

There are so many things to do onboardthat you cannot possibly squeeze it all in during the time we’ll be aboard. Every evening you receive a schedule of events to plan your day. From slots in the casino to a 3 on 3 basketball tournament on the sports deck, there is never a time on the ship where you won’t find something interesting to do.

• Join a session in the Culinary Arts Center to see the Statendam Chefs work their magic
• Sign up for a Poker Tournament
• Join a team for the daily trivia contest
• Whale Watch
• Read a book
• Catch one of the many first-run movies playing in your cabin or on the ship's theater
• Learn a little bit about wine
• Attend an art auction. Whether you bid or not, there is complimentary champagne
• Have dinner served on your private balcony
• Enjoy a spa session for a massage or facial treatment
• Attend a Broadway-style performance in the show lounge
• Meet old and new Husky friends and talk Husky Football
• Enjoy the classical music quartet, a staple on Holland America ships
• Join the crowd signing favorites in the Piano Lounge
• Dance late into the evening in the Crows Nest

This is a short list of the many things available to you aboard ship. I didn't even mention Bingo, which is still offered on board with incredibly high jackpots.

Reservations: When should I book this tour?

The best answer is NOW! Cabins aboard ship are assigned based on when reservations are confirmed. The best cabins go first. This is especially true if you want to be close to friends or family aboard the Statendam. You may make reservations using the reservation page on nwtravel.com, or send an email to me at brad@nwtravel.com or call me at the office at 425 313 1691. Since I am on the phone quite a bit, the email option or website form may be a better way to go. I will need your full (official ID) names, mailing address, email address, daytime phone contact, the type of cruise cabin you would like, you r dining preferences, and the names of any other parties you are traveling with so that I can cross reference you with your friends.

Payment: What is the payment schedule?

Initial deposit for the cruise/beach package is $200 per person. The balance is due on or before July15th, 2010. Payment may be made by visa, mastercard, or check.

Cancellation schedule: What if I have to cancel?

If you must cancel after payment has been made, you may be subject to cancellation penalties. The closer we get to the event, the higher the penalty. The cruise line has a schedule of penalties, as do the airlines once space has been contracted. /p>

• February 1st to April 30th $100 per person
• May 1st to July 15th $200 per person
• July 15th to departure non-refundable

Game Tickets: Do I need to purchase game tickets?

Game tickets are included in the price of this travel program. The pre-game warm up party/rally on game day (Sponsored by UWAA) is also included in this price. I am purchasing group tickets from USC adjacent to the visiting section. These tickets are generally right next to the Husky section, but closer to the field. If you want to purchase your own ticket, the credit for this is $30 per person. Let me know when you make reservations if you plan to purchase your own through the UW Ticket Office.

Pre-game warm up party

For this event, I have included a meal ticket for the pre-game party adjacent to the Coliseum. This event begins approximately three hours prior to game time. The UW Marching Band and Cheer Squad make an appearance about 90 minutes before kick off.

Updated: Friday, June 4, 2010