nicko cruises

OCEAN CRUISES FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Please find below the answers to some frequently asked questions about nicko cruises ocean division – currently consisting of VASCO DA GAMA.

nicko cruises is one of the most dynamic cruise providers in Germany. In recent years, the company has evolved from a leading river cruise provider with more than 30 years of experience into a well-known provider of small ships with destination-oriented ocean routes. With its fleet, which is as modern as it is comfortable, nicko cruises travels the world’s oceans as well as all domestic waterways and coastal sections that are in demand for tourists.

With its “time to discover” philosophy, nicko cruises focuses on cruise schedules that are rich in discovery and on intensive travel experiences in the product fields river and ocean. The product features of so-called “slow cruising”, such as small ships and long anchorage times, are combined with emotional moments at nicko cruises. During the cruises, guests always have plenty of time for exploring. Thanks to the large variety of products, everyone will find just the right trip at nicko cruises, individually tailored to their needs. The ships in the fleet are all in the 4 to 5-star category according to German land hotel trade standards. Attractive inland excursions and the varied culinary offers on board round off the travel experience. nicko cruises Schiffsreisen GmbH has its company headquarters in Stuttgart, where it employs roughly 110 highly motivated members of staff.

See here for River Cruise FAQ’s.

Question: What documentation will I need for a nicko ocean cruise?

Answer: In general, you will need the appropriate travel documentation, valid passport, visas and vaccination certificate. Please note the “Important Travel Advice” at the end of the respective travel chapter in the catalogue or the information in your travel confirmation.

Question: Are children allowed on board?

Answer: On board VASCO DA GAMA, families with children can enjoy a host of different benefits. Children under 16 years travel free when accompanied by two full-paying adults. There are also attractive offers for single travellers with children on all our departures. The children’s area on board VASCO DA GAMA extends out over two decks.

Question: What is the currency used on board?

Answer: The currency on board is Euro.

Question: Can I exchange currency on board?         

Answer: Money cannot be exchanged on the ship.

Question: Is there a dress code on board the ship?      

Answer: We recommend wearing sporty, casual clothing on the ship. You should wear non-slip shoes on the outside decks. Neat clothing is required for dinner. You are welcome to wear something fancier for the gala dinner.

Question: How does dining work?

Answer:

Prices for nicko’s ocean cruises full board service including:

– Generous breakfast with coffee, tea and juices in a variety of restaurants

– Buffets, show cooking or á la carte menus served at the table, depending on the restaurant

– Flexible mealtimes with free choice of seating

– Coffee and cake depending on the daily programme

With nicko cruises, you can choose between two attractive types of beverage packages. A classic beverage package rounds off your holiday perfectly. Or a premium beverage package offers you a broader selection of other drinks. You can book them in advance or on board.

Question: What activities and entertainment are available on a nicko cruise?

Answer:

Nicko cruises, have always put shore excursions at the very heart of their offer. With a great range of excursions on offer, which can be reserved in advance on their website, you can explore the destination in small groups – of course always at a reasonable distance thanks to their convenient whisper audio systems. You will find a small selection of the possible excursions described in our itineraries in their catalogue – you determine how intensively and in what way to wish to explore the regions they visit.

Their very own “Hollywood” on the sea provides the best entertainment. The theatre extends over two decks, forming the artistic heart of your ship. Music, acting, artistry – nicko guests won´t cease to be amazed.

Question: What amenities and room services are included in my cabin?

Answer: It differs by the ship and cabin, currently they are:

Vasco da Gama:

Interior cabins category 01 to Outside cabins category 12: These cabins include a bed, sofa, private bathroom with shower & hairdryer, flat screen TV, phone, safe and individually adjustable air conditioning.

Balcony cabins category 13 & 14: These cabins include all as per the above for interior/outside plus these extras – Balcony with seating, bathroom with bathtub/whirlpool, welcome fruit bowl, tea/coffee amenities,one bottle of wine and water, preferred check-in and check-out where ever possible, use of an atlas, binoculars, umbrella and bathrobe/slippers during your cruise.

Suite cabins category 15: Includes all as per the above for balcony, plus laundry service and culinary delight turndown service.

Suite cabins category 16: Includes all as per the above for category 15, plus ironing service.

Question: What power sockets are used on board?

Answer: European standard sockets, 230 V

Question: Is smoking allowed on the ship?

Answer: Smoking is only permitted in designated areas on the outside decks. All interior areas such as restaurants, lounges, cabins, cabin balconies, corridors, etc. are non-smoking areas. This also applies to the use of all types of e-cigarettes.

Question: Do you need to tip?

Answer: It is common practice around the world  for a satisfied guest to reward the services of staff accordingly. The amount tipped is, of course, at the guest´s discretion and should be in recognition of good service. Nicko recommends €13-17 per guest and per overnight stay for the ship crew. The cruise director, local tour guides and bus drivers are not included in this. You can, however, also thank them by giving a tip.

Question: Is there a laundry service available on the ship?

Answer: A laundry and ironing service is available on board VASCO DA GAMA at extra charge (except for Suite guests).

Question: Can I send letters or call from the ship?

Answer: You can send post while on board. The post will usually be mailed when you reach the next port. Postcards and postage stamps can be purchased at the reception desk on board, but please bear in mind that prices on board may often be more expensive than ashore.

On many nicko cruises ships, it is possible to make calls on board from cabin to cabin. On many ships, it is also possible to call ashore via a satellite link. The costs of this, however, are high and we recommend using your own mobile phone (please check before the cruise for information on roaming charges).

Question: Is there internet access on board?

Answer: VASCO DA GAMA and WORLD VOYAGER are equipped with a satellite reception system and offers WiFi internet access at extra charge (please note the ship information).

Question: Are port taxes included in the price of the cruise?

Answer: Yes.

Question: What languages are spoken on board?

Answer: Languages on board are English and German, however, only certain cruise departures offer both English and German shore excursions.

Question: Are nicko cruises ships suitable for wheelchair users?

Answer: The ships are comfortable as possible, but there will of course be staircases, as well as narrow doors and corridors. Even boarding or disembarking from the ship is usually via narrow gangways, which are not always at ground level and, depending on the tide, can also be very steep. If you are not able to handle these obstacles on your own, an ocean cruise on a nicko ship is not recommended. Please understand if in some cases tenders or shore leave are refused for safety reasons. This decision is made by the captain. Our crew is of course on hand to help, however, please bear in mind that our onboard employees are not trained caregivers and are not permitted to carry out any nursing activities. For safety reasons and to review requirements, please let us know if you have any specific needs, limited mobility or other physical limitations prior to making your booking. Should you have any limitations that prevent you from taking part in the sea rescue exercise, please also let us know before departure. If you require specialised help, you must travel with a companion. Our ocean ships are not disabled accessible. Guests who are wheelchair-dependent must bring their own collapsible wheelchair with them. Please note that the number of guests per cruise who are wheelchair-dependent is limited for safety reasons and embarkation may be refused without prior registration.

Question: What drinks are included within the fare?

Answer: Fresh water and coffee are included within the fare.

As the fresh water on board ships is always stored in tanks, we recommend not drinking the tap water and that you use the mineral water in your cabin and, if necessary, get mineral water from the bar, in the restaurant or at the coffee point instead. The tap water is perfectly suitable for brushing teeth.

Question: Does nicko cruises cater for dietary restrictions?

Answer: Suitable catering options will usually be provided for you. Please inform us of any dietary requirements and special meals you require when booking.

Question: Does nicko cruises offer private excursions?

Answer: No, most excursions are with a group.

Question: Is there a doctor available on board?

Answer: A doctor is available on-board VASCO DA GAMA to provide first-aid assistance in the event of accidents and emergencies. Billing for the doctors services and if, applicable, medication that has been administered, is carried out on side. Costs are variable depending on the service. Please ensure you have an adequate supply of any medication you need on a regular basis, as on-board staff are unable to dispense any medication.

Question: What can I not bring on board?

Answer: Your luggage must only contain personal items. It is forbidden to bring weapons, knives, alcohol, or drugs on board.

Question: Will there be professional photographs taken throughout the voyage?

Answer: Yes, there is a photo team on board – photos are available for purchase.

Question: What facilities are available on board?

Answer: On board VASCO DA GAMA, there is a range of public facilities for your well-being. This includes a fitness area with various cardio equipment as well as our wellness area with steam bath and sauna. Table tennis, shuffleboard and darts complete the range of activities on offer. The outdoor sports area includes a hard paddle tennis court and a jogging track. VASCO DA GAMA also has an outdoor pool with two whirlpools and a covered indoor pool. You can use all these facilities for free and at your own risk. The beauty area provides massage and cosmetic treatment at extra charge. You can find the opening times and price lists for these services in your cabin. In the various shops on board, you will find a range of clothing, jewellery, cosmetics and a selection of items for purchase. Please note that the shops are only permitted to open outside the 12-mile zone due to customs regulations. Varying shows and entertainment programmes are performed in the “Hollywood” theatre.

RIVER CRUISES FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Question: What documentation will I need for a nicko river cruise?

Answer: In general, you will need the appropriate travel documentation, valid identification documents, valid passport, visas and vaccination certificate. Please note the “Important Travel Advice” at the end of the respective travel chapter in the catalogue or the information in your travel confirmation.

Question: Are children allowed on board a nicko river cruise?

Answer: Accommodation for a child is possible in a 3-bed-cabin (where available). Children up to and including 11 years of age are given a 30 % reduction on the cabin price (apart from MS MEKONG NAVIGATOR and Egypt, with MS THURGAU SAXONIA, MS FREDERIC CHOPIN, MS REMIX, MS THURGAU EXOTIC III: reduction upon request) if they are sharing a cabin on board with their parents. Despite this possibility, our river cruises are not generally suitable for children. There are no separate child-friendly entertainment programmes, childcare, toys, child seats or cribs offered for children on board. Children under 3 years of age are not allowed on board.

Question: What is the currency used on board?

Answer: The currency on board is Euro.

Question: Can I exchange currency on board?         

Answer: Money cannot be exchanged on the ship.

Question: How does dining work on a nicko river cruise?

Answer:

Nicko’s river cruise prices include full board:

• Generous breakfast with coffee, tea and juices
• 5-course evening menu served at the table
• Optional light lunch buffet
• Coffee/tea after lunch and dinner
• Coffee/cake or late night snack according to daily schedule
• Festive Gala Dinner
• Welcome and farewell reception
• Table reservation on board

With nicko cruises, you can choose between two attractive types of beverage packages. The classic beverage package rounds off your holiday perfectly. Or a premium beverage package offers you a broader selection of other drinks. You can book them in advance or on board – see individual cruises on our site for prices and inclusions.

Question: What activities and entertainment are available on a nicko river cruise?

Answer: All nicko river cruises prices shown on the Cruise Traveller website include a set of pre-bookable excursion packages give you the most important excursions for each trip at a good value package price. This is included to ensure that nicko cruises are aware of English speaking guests travelling who will require English speaking excursions in advance. An experienced cruise director is onboard as well to support you while travelling. There may be extra shore excursions available onboard that you can add on for an extra charge.

Guests can enjoy evenings in the lounge with a cocktail and board games. There is also a musician on-board. A bingo evening provides entertainment for everyone.

Question: What amenities and room services are included in my cabin?

Answer: It differs on the river ship and on the cabin. Below is a current summary.

5-Star Vessels: nickoVISION, nickoSPIRIT, MS DOURO SERENITY

• nickoVISION & nickoSPIRIT: Light colours and modern design with optimal use of space, you’ll find in the 14m² outside cabins. The double beds can be separated into two singles if required. On the middle and upper deck, the open-able French balconies ensure you get the best views. The windows on the main deck don’t open. In the bathroom, you’ll find convenient storage shelves and, of course, there is ample space in the wardrobe for your clothes. The domestic appliances also include individually adjustable air conditioning, radio, phone, SATELLITE TV, shower/WC, hairdryer, fridge and a safe.
• MS DOURO SERENITY: All cabins are outside cabins and have a TV, hairdryer, small fridge, safe and individually adjustable air conditioning. All cabins also have double beds that can be separated into two singles if required. On the main deck, the standard cabins are approx. 12 m² in size and have non-opening, narrow windows. The standard cabins on the middle and upper decks (approx. 14 m²) have lowerable panoramic fronts for the best views. All standard cabins and deluxe cabins have a bathroom with washbasins and shower/WC. The Junior Suites (approx. 29 m² incl. balcony area) and deluxe cabins (approx. 19 m² incl. balcony area) on the upper deck have a loggia balcony with lowerable panoramic front: the best place to be able to enjoy the beauty of the countryside undisturbed. Both Junior Suites in the rear of the ship have an additional living area and have a bathroom with double washbasins, shower and WC.

5-Star Boutique Vessels: MS HEIDELBERG

• MS HEIDELBERG: All cabins are elegantly furnished, roomy outside cabins (approx.18 m², single cabins approx. 13 m²). All middle and upper deck cabins have openable panorama windows that reach down to the floor (French balcony). The main deck cabins have a porthole that cannot be opened. All cabins have individually adjustable air conditioning, a shower/WC, hairdryer, SATELLITE TV, safe, fridge and phone. In all the double cabins, the beds can be moved apart from each other. In some instances, the 2 bed cabins can also be occupied by three people.

4-Star Vessels: MS BOLERO, MS MAXIMA, MS VIKTORIA, MS BELVEDERE, MS RHEIN MELODIE, MS RHEIN SYMPHONIE, MS BIJOU DU RHONE & MS SEINE COMTESSE

• MS BOLERO, MS MAXIMA & MS VIKTORIA: All cabins are stylishly and comfortably furnished outside cabins and have individually adjustable air conditioning/heating, shower/WC, SATELLITE TV with radio, hairdryer, fridge, safe and phone. The cabins are approx. 16m² in size. The beds are arranged next to each other but can be separated if required. Cabins on the middle and upper decks have openable panoramic windows that reach to the floor (French balcony), while the cabins on the main deck have large, non-opening portholes. In some instances, the 2 bed cabins can also be occupied by three people.
• MS BELVEDERE: All cabins are stylishly and comfortably furnished outside cabins and have individually adjustable air conditioning/heating, shower/WC, SATELLITE TV with radio, hairdryer, fridge, safe and phone. Cabins are approx. 14.5 m² in size. The beds are arranged next to each other but can be separated if required. The cabins on the middle and upper deck have openable panoramic windows that reach to the floor (French balcony), while the cabins on the main deck have large, non-opening portholes. In some instances, the 2 bed cabins can also be occupied by three people. The Junior Suites on the upper deck are 22 m² in size and offer diagonally positioned beds that look out towards the panoramic windows. They are also equipped with spacious cupboards, storage shelves and a cosy seating area.
• MS RHEIN MELODIE & MS RHEIN SYMPHONIE: The cabins are stylishly and comfortably furnished with individually adjustable air conditioning/heating, shower/WC, SATELLITE TV, phone, hairdryer and safe. The cabins are approx. 14.5 m2 in size. They have beds arranged next to each other that can be separated into two singles if required. On the upper deck, the cabins have openable panoramic windows that reach to the floor (French balcony). The cabins on the middle deck have large panoramic windows that you can open. The viewing windows in the main deck cabins don’t open. The main deck aft cabins are approx. 11.5 m2 in size, have a non-opening viewing window and all of them have a folding bed and a sofa bed.
• MS BIJOU DU RHONE: The cabins are stylish and comfortable, with individually adjustable air conditioning, shower/WC, SATELLITE TV, phone, hairdryer and safe. The cabins on the middle and upper decks are approx. 14 m² in size. The deluxe middle deck cabins have a large, openable panoramic window; the deluxe upper deck cabins have a lowerable panoramic front. All other cabins on the middle deck have large, non-opening panoramic windows. The beds in the cabins are arranged next to each other but they can also be separated if required. The main deck cabins are approx. 11 m² in size, have a non-opening viewing window and all of them have a folding bed and a sofa bed.
• MS SEINE COMTESSE: The cabins are stylish and comfortable, with individually adjustable air conditioning, shower/WC, SATELLITE TV, phone, hairdryer and safe. The cabins on the middle and upper decks are approx. 14 m² in size. The deluxe middle deck cabins have a large, openable panoramic window; the deluxe upper deck cabins have a lowerable panoramic front. All other cabins on the middle deck have large, non-opening panoramic windows. The beds in the cabins are arranged next to each other but they can also be separated if required. The main deck cabins are approx. 11 m² in size, have a non-opening viewing window and all of them have a folding bed and a sofa bed.

4-Star Boutique Vessels: MS CASANOVA, MS KATHARINA VON BORA

• MS CASANOVA: All cabins are stylishly and comfortably furnished outside cabins. The upper deck cabins all have large, openable panoramic windows that reach to the floor (French balcony). Windows in all the main deck cabins cannot be opened. The 2 bed cabins are approx. 12 m² in size and the deluxe cabins are about 16 m² in size. All cabins are equipped with individually adjustable air conditioning, shower/WC, hairdryer, music channel, SATELLITE TV, safe, fridge and on-board phone. The 2 bed cabins either have a double bed (1.60 m x 2 m) with two mattresses or a sofa bed and a separate bed. The deluxe cabins have a double bed (1.60 m x 2 m) with two mattresses.
• MS KATHARINA VON BORA: All cabins and outside cabins are stylishly furnished. On the upper deck, all cabins are equipped with large, openable panoramic windows that reach to the floor (French balcony). The windows in the main deck cabins cannot be opened. The 2 bed cabins are approx. 12 m² in size, while the deluxe cabins are approx. 13 m² in size and the 1 bed cabins are approx. 9 m² in size. All cabins have individually adjustable air conditioning, shower/WC, hairdryer, music channel, SATELLITE TV, safe, fridge and phone. The 2 bed cabins either have a double bed (1.50 m x 2 m) with two mattresses or two separate beds. The deluxe cabins have a double bed (1.50 m x 2 m) with two mattresses. The 1 bed cabins have a fixed bed.

3.5-Star Vessels: MS DOURO CRUISER & MS FEDIN

• MS DOURO CRUISER: All cabins are outside cabins and feature a walk-on balcony on the upper deck. The main deck cabins have large, non-opening panoramic windows. All cabins are approx. 15 m² in size (including balcony area with upper deck cabins) and have a shower/WC, individually adjusted air conditioning, hairdryer, safe and SATELLITE TV. The main deck aft cabins are approx. 14 m² in size. The cosily furnished cabins have beds arranged next to each other, which can be separated if required. In front of cabins 100-107 and 300-307 there is a small landing in the cabin aisle with two steps.
• MS FEDIN: All cabins are outside cabins and have large, openable panoramic windows (lower deck: non-opening portholes). The double cabins front/aft are approx. 9 m2 in size; standard cabins are approx. 10 m2 and each have two single beds, as do the deluxe cabins on the main deck (approx. 13.5 m2). The deluxe cabins on the upper deck (approx. 15.5 m2) have double beds, which can also be separated. All 2 bed cabins have a bathroom (shower/WC) with hairdryer, individually adjustable air conditioning/heating, a mini fridge, built-in closet, on-board radio, safe and TV. The suites (approx. 28 m2) also have a separate living and sleeping area with a king size bed (double bed with a continuous mattress). The 1 bed cabins are approx. 7 m² in size and have a shower room with hairdryer.

Question: What power sockets are used on board?

Answer: European standard sockets, 230 V

Question: Is smoking allowed on the ship?

Answer: Smoking is only permitted on the outside deck (and on most ships only in designated areas). On all nicko river ships, all interior areas such as restaurants, parlours, cabins, corridors, etc. are non-smoking areas.

Question: Do you need to tip?

Answer: It is common practice around the world for a satisfied guest to reward the services of staff accordingly. The amount tipped is, of course, at the guest´s discretion and should be in recognition of good service. Nicko recommends €9-12 per guest and per overnight stay for the ship crew. The cruise director, local tour guides and bus drivers are not included in this. You can, however, also thank them by giving a tip. For cruises on MS MEKONG NAVIGATOR, tips for the ship personnel are already included in the travel price.

Question: Is there a laundry service available on the ship?

Answer: Only the MS MEKONG NAVIGATOR has a laundry service – all other ships, no.

Question: Can I send letters or call from the ship?

Answer: You can send post while on board. The post will usually be mailed when we reach the next port. Postcards and postage stamps can be purchased at the reception desk on board, but please bear in mind that prices on board may often be more expensive than ashore.

On many nicko cruises ships, it is possible to make calls on board from cabin to cabin. On many ships, it is also possible to call ashore via a satellite link. The costs of this, however, are high and we recommend using your own mobile phone (please check before the cruise for information on roaming charges).

Question: Is there internet access on board?

Answer: On many nicko cruises ships, internet connection in the form of WLAN (wireless) can be booked for a charge at the Reception desk or with the nicko cruise director (please note the ship information).

Question: Are port taxes included in the price of the cruise?

Answer: Yes.

Question: What languages are spoken on board?

Answer: Languages on board are English and German, however, only special departures will have English speaking shore excursions.

Question: Are nicko cruises ships suitable for wheelchair users?

Answer: No, nicko’s river ships are not suitable for wheelchair users.

Question: What drinks are included within the fare?

Answer: Drinks are not included in the fare.

With nicko cruises, you can choose between two attractive types of beverage packages. A classic beverage package rounds off your holiday perfectly. Or a premium beverage package offers you a broader selection of other drinks. You can book them in advance or on board – see individual departures listed on our site for drinks package prices and inclusions.

Question: Does nicko cruises cater for dietary restrictions?

Answer: Suitable catering options will usually be provided for you. Please inform us of any dietary requirements and special meals you require when booking.

Question: Does nicko cruises offer private excursions?

Answer: No, all excursions are via group tours.

Question: Is there a doctor available on board?

Answer: A doctor is present on board the nicko river cruise ships in Russia as well as on all 12/15/17-day Danube trips to provide first aid in emergency situations. Of course, doctors are available at short notice ashore as well. Billing for the doctors services and if, applicable, medication that has been administered, is carried out on side. Costs are variable depending on the service.

Question: What can I not bring on board?

Answer: Your luggage must only contain personal items. It is forbidden to bring weapons, knives, alcohol, or drugs on board.

Question: Will there be professional photographs taken throughout the voyage?

Answer: No.