Saga Cruises: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
In This Guide
- Introduction
- A Brief History
- The Saga Cruises Fleet
- Accommodation and Service Levels
- What’s Included in Your Fare
- Loyalty Programme: Saga Britannia Club
- Pre-Paid Packages Available
- Dining Options
- Onboard Entertainment & Activities
- Saga Cruises for Solo Travellers
- Dress Code
- Gratuities / Tipping Policy
- Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
- What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
- Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
- Official Websites
- Required Travel Documents
- Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
- Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
- Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
- Food Policy
- Current Starting Ports (2025)
- Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Saga Cruises
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
- Additional Resources
- Disclaimer
- Affiliate Disclosure
Introduction
Saga Cruises offers a distinctive, all-inclusive cruising experience tailored specifically for guests aged 50 and over. A travelling companion may be over 40. Renowned for its boutique-style ships and exceptional service, Saga provides a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere with a strong focus on British preferences.
Most itineraries are no-fly, departing conveniently from UK ports. This makes it a seamless and hassle-free choice for its target market.
A Brief History
Saga’s journey began in 1951, offering holidays to retirees in the UK and growing into a trusted lifestyle brand for the over-50s. The company launched its cruise line in 1997 with the much-loved Saga Rose. A major milestone was the introduction of its first purpose-built ships, Spirit of Discovery in 2019 and sister ship Spirit of Adventure in 2021.
These modern vessels represent a significant investment in contemporary design while retaining classic British cruising hallmarks. This commitment ensures a premium, boutique experience across its ocean voyages.
The Saga Cruises Fleet
Saga operates a modern, focused fleet of two identical, all-balcony ocean ships. These vessels were purpose-built to deliver an intimate and luxurious boutique cruising experience. They are celebrated for their elegant interiors and high crew-to-guest ratio.
Spirit of Discovery
- Launch Date: 2019
- Tonnage: 58,119 GT
- Capacity: 987 passengers
- Notable Features: All-balcony cabins, The Playhouse theatre, included speciality dining, wraparound promenade deck
As the first of Saga’s purpose-built boutique ships, Spirit of Discovery set a new standard for the brand. It combines contemporary British design with the classic comforts and exceptional service Saga is known for. The ship offers a wealth of amenities, including a luxurious spa, library, and Lido outdoor pool.
Spirit of Adventure
- Launch Date: 2021
- Tonnage: 58,119 GT
- Capacity: 987 passengers
- Notable Features: All-balcony cabins, unique dining venues like Khukuri House, expansive sun deck, craft and card rooms
The sister ship to Spirit of Discovery, Spirit of Adventure shares the same high-quality build but boasts its own distinct personality and interior design. It introduced new dining concepts to the fleet, providing even more choice for guests. The ship continues Saga’s commitment to a sophisticated and all-inclusive British cruising experience.
Accommodation and Service Levels
Saga Cruises prides itself on providing high-quality, comfortable accommodation on its modern ships. A high crew-to-guest ratio ensures attentive service. Every cabin on their ocean ships features a private balcony as standard, creating a welcoming ‘home away from home’ atmosphere.
Standard Cabins
Standard Balcony Cabins on Saga ships are generously sized, starting at 215 square feet, and are appointed with premium furnishings. They feature a seating area and a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower. All cabins include amenities such as a TV, fridge, safe, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Private Balcony: Every single cabin, regardless of category, comes with its own private balcony and seating.
- Spacious Design: Cabins are designed to be comfortable and roomy, with ample storage space.
- Modern Amenities: All cabins are equipped with a large television, mini-fridge, and complimentary 24-hour room service.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Suite Categories
Saga offers a range of suites for guests seeking extra space and luxury. These range from Deluxe Suites with a separate lounge area to expansive Forward Suites and Midship Suites. The largest suites provide features like a dining area, walk-in wardrobe, and a larger balcony.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Increased Space: Suites provide significantly more living space, with separate sleeping and lounge areas.
- Prime Locations: Many suites are located in premium midship or forward locations, offering superior views and comfort.
- Enhanced Furnishings: Expect upgraded furniture, larger bathrooms (some with bathtubs), and more expansive balconies.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Exclusive Suite-Level Services
Guests booked in Suites (category C and above) receive enhanced services designed to provide an extra layer of comfort and convenience. This includes a dedicated butler to assist with any onboard requests. The experience is tailored to ensure a seamless and luxurious voyage.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Butler Service: A dedicated butler is available to handle dinner reservations, book shore excursions, and manage in-suite requests.
- Welcome Amenities: Suite guests are typically greeted with a welcome bottle of Champagne, fresh fruit, and daily canapés.
- Priority Services: This can include priority embarkation and disembarkation where available.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
Accessible Cabins
Both ships have a number of specially adapted cabins designed for guests with mobility challenges. These cabins offer wider doorways and more floor space. They also feature fully adapted wet rooms with grab rails and a shower seat.
Key features of these accommodations include:
- Wider Doorways: Doors to the cabin and bathroom are widened to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Adapted Wet Room: The bathroom is designed as a fully accessible wet room with a roll-in shower, grab rails, and a pull-down shower seat.
- Ample Space: The cabin layout provides more floor space for easier manoeuvrability around the room.
Amenities and layouts can vary by ship. Always check the specific deck plans when booking.
What’s Included in Your Fare
Saga is renowned for its comprehensive all-inclusive pricing, which offers exceptional value and peace of mind. The fare is designed to cover almost every aspect of your holiday. This approach ensures you can relax without worrying about unexpected extra costs onboard.
Key inclusions in your fare typically cover:
- Chauffeur Service: A private car service from your home to the UK departure port and back again (up to 250 miles each way).
- All Onboard Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner in all dining venues, including all speciality restaurants, are included.
- Included Drinks: A selection of wines, Saga house-brand spirits, beers, and soft drinks are available all day.
- Gratuities and Service Charges: All tips for the crew are included in your fare.
- Wi-Fi: Standard internet access is included for all guests throughout the ship.
- Shore Excursions: A choice of selected excursions is included in most ports of call.
- Onboard Activities and Entertainment: Access to all shows, lectures, fitness classes, and onboard facilities.
- 24-Hour Room Service: A comprehensive menu is available at no extra charge at any time.
- Travel Insurance: A comprehensive travel insurance policy is included, with the option to upgrade.
Please note that inclusions may vary depending on the specific fare type, ship, and itinerary. Always confirm details at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programme: Saga Britannia Club
Saga rewards its repeat guests through the Saga Britannia Club. Membership is automatic after completing your first Saga holiday. Points are earned based on spending, with status levels unlocking additional benefits and recognition.
Bronze Tier
- Requirement: Earned automatically after your first trip.
- Perks & Benefits:
- Exclusive special offers on future holidays.
- A dedicated Britannia Club hotline for enquiries.
- Subscription to the club’s ‘Saga Magazine’.
Silver Tier
- Requirement: Earned after spending a specified amount with Saga over a three-year period.
- Perks & Benefits:
- All Bronze benefits.
- Priority booking on new cruises and tours.
- An exclusive onboard cocktail party for members.
- A dedicated travel consultant for personalised service.
Gold Tier
- Requirement: The highest tier, earned after significant, continued spending with Saga.
- Perks & Benefits:
- All Silver benefits.
- A private chauffeur service for all UK journeys (not just to the port).
- A welcome home gift after each trip.
- Invitations to exclusive events and ship launches.
Warning: This information can change without notice. Loyalty programmes are provided at the discretion of the cruise line and can be changed or terminated without notice.
Pre-Paid Packages Available
Saga Cruises operates on a genuinely all-inclusive basis, meaning there is no need to purchase traditional pre-paid packages. Drinks, internet, and speciality dining are already covered in the cruise fare. This simplifies the onboard experience significantly.
While standard drinks and Wi-Fi are included, guests may have the option to purchase premium selections onboard. This could include connoisseur-level fine wines, premium spirits, or upgraded high-speed internet for streaming. These are typically charged on a per-item basis rather than sold as a formal package.
Disclaimer: Package details, inclusions, and availability are subject to change without notice. Please verify all information on the cruise line’s official website.
Dining Options
Dining is a cornerstone of the Saga experience, with an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and impeccable service. All speciality restaurants are included in the fare, though reservations are highly recommended. The culinary offerings are diverse, ensuring a new experience each evening.
Key dining venues across the fleet include:
- The Grand Dining Room: The main restaurant, offering sophisticated British and international cuisine with open-seating dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- The Grill / The Verandah: A more relaxed alternative, offering a mix of buffet-style and cooked-to-order dishes, transforming into a speciality steakhouse in the evening.
- East to West (Spirit of Discovery): An elegant speciality restaurant serving high-quality, authentic Asian cuisine with a modern twist.
- Coast to Coast (Spirit of Discovery): A seafood lover’s paradise, this speciality venue offers freshly caught fish, shellfish platters, and classic seafood dishes.
- Khukuri House (Spirit of Adventure): The first-ever Nepalese restaurant at sea, offering a unique and authentic taste of Himalayan cuisine.
- Amalfi (Spirit of Adventure): A high-end Italian speciality restaurant serving classic dishes from the Amalfi coast with fresh, vibrant flavours.
- The Living Room: A casual hub for coffee, pastries, light snacks, and afternoon tea during the day.
Please note that dining options may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Onboard Entertainment & Activities
Saga Cruises offers a refined and engaging programme of entertainment and activities designed for a sophisticated audience. The focus is on quality performances and enriching experiences. Evenings are often filled with live music, captivating shows, and socialising with fellow guests.
Onboard, you can expect:
- The Playhouse Theatre: A stunning 444-seat theatre hosting West End-style productions, classical music concerts, comedy acts, and guest performers.
- Live Music: A variety of musical acts perform nightly in the ship’s bars and lounges, ranging from pianists and classical quartets to jazz and swing bands.
- Guest Speakers: An extensive programme of insightful talks from experts in fields like history, maritime, horticulture, and exploration.
- The Spa: A tranquil hydrotherapy spa featuring a large pool, steam room, and infrared sauna, alongside a range of professional treatments.
- Fitness and Wellness: A fully equipped gym, a yoga and pilates studio, and a range of fitness classes are available, often included in the fare.
- Creative Pursuits: Onboard facilities include a dedicated craft room for workshops and a well-stocked library for quiet reading.
- Outdoor Activities: Guests can enjoy the wraparound promenade deck for walking, a game of deck quoits, or relax by the outdoor Lido pool.
Please note that entertainment and activities may vary depending on the specific ship and itinerary.
Saga Cruises for Solo Travellers
Saga Cruises is widely regarded as one of the best cruise lines for solo travellers. The company places a strong emphasis on making single cruisers feel welcome and included. A significant portion of their cabins are dedicated to solos, and the sociable atmosphere makes it easy to meet people.
Accommodation for Solo Cruisers
Both Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure feature a high number of single cabins—around 20% of the total accommodation. These are not small, repurposed rooms but are well-appointed cabins. Crucially, all of them feature their own private balcony.
Key options and features include:
- Dedicated Single Cabins: A large inventory of cabins specifically designed and priced for one person, avoiding high single supplements.
- No Compromise on Quality: Solo cabins are available in various grades and are finished to the same high standard as double-occupancy cabins.
- Private Balcony as Standard: Unlike on many other lines, every solo traveller on a Saga ocean ship is guaranteed a private balcony.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Meeting People and Onboard Life
Saga hosts special welcome receptions and gatherings specifically for solo travellers at the beginning of each cruise. These events are a great way to meet fellow guests in a relaxed setting. The crew are also adept at facilitating introductions.
Key options and features include:
- Solo Traveller Events: Dedicated cocktail parties and meet-ups allow solo guests to socialise with each other early in the voyage.
- Open-Seating Dining: The flexible dining arrangements make it easy to join different tables and meet new people over meals.
- Sociable Atmosphere: The onboard activities, from lectures to deck games, are designed to be inclusive and foster a sense of community.
Opportunities and availability may vary by ship and sailing.
Dress Code
The dress code onboard Saga Cruises is relaxed during the day but becomes more formal in the evenings. Guests typically treat dinner as a special occasion. Adherence to the evening dress code is expected in most public areas after 6 pm.
Key dress code guidelines include:
- Daytime Casual: During the day, casual wear such as shorts, T-shirts, and comfortable shoes is perfectly acceptable around the ship and for breakfast and lunch.
- Evening Elegant Casual: On most evenings, the dress code is elegant casual. This means trousers and a collared shirt for gentlemen, while ladies often opt for a smart dress, skirt, or trousers.
- Formal Nights: On formal nights (usually two per 7-night cruise), many guests enjoy dressing up. Gentlemen typically wear a dinner jacket, suit, or blazer with a tie, and ladies wear a cocktail dress or elegant evening separates.
Please note that dress code enforcement can vary. It is always best to check the latest guidelines for your specific sailing.
Gratuities / Tipping Policy
Saga Cruises has a strict no-tipping policy onboard, which is a hallmark of their service. All gratuities for the crew and service staff are included in the cruise fare. This policy is designed to provide a hassle-free experience.
Key aspects of the gratuity policy include:
- Fully Included: All gratuities are covered in the initial price of the cruise, with no automatic charges added to your onboard account.
- No Tipping Expected: Guests are politely asked not to offer individual tips to any crew members during their voyage.
- Fair Compensation: The policy ensures that all staff members, including those working behind the scenes, are rewarded for their collective hard work.
Please note that gratuity policies and amounts are subject to change. Always confirm the latest details with the cruise line.
Embarkation Day Beverage Policy
As Saga Cruises includes a wide selection of beverages in the fare, there is generally no need for guests to bring their own drinks onboard. The complimentary selection is comprehensive. It covers wines at meals, house spirits, beers, and soft drinks throughout the day.
Key rules for bringing beverages onboard include:
- Personal Consumption Not Permitted: Bringing large quantities of alcohol onboard for personal consumption in cabins is not allowed.
- Special Occasions: Guests wishing to bring a special bottle of wine or champagne for a celebration may be permitted to do so, but it is advisable to check with the cruise line directly before travelling.
- Corkage Fees: A corkage fee may apply if a personally-brought bottle is consumed in the ship’s restaurants or bars.
This policy is strictly enforced and subject to change. Items outside the allowance will be confiscated.
What Guests Are Saying: A Balanced View
Saga guests are typically very loyal and highly satisfied, often returning for multiple cruises. The line consistently receives positive feedback for its service, value, and onboard atmosphere. However, like any cruise line, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone.
Common Praises
- Exceptional Service: Guests frequently praise the crew for being incredibly friendly, professional, and attentive, often remembering names and preferences.
- All-Inclusive Value: The comprehensive nature of the fare—including chauffeur service, drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities—is a major highlight for value and convenience.
- Food Quality: The dining, especially in the speciality restaurants that come at no extra charge, receives consistent acclaim for its high quality and variety.
- Solo Traveller Friendliness: The excellent provision for solo travellers, with dedicated single balcony cabins and a welcoming atmosphere, is highly rated.
Common Criticisms
- Quieter Atmosphere: First-time guests accustomed to larger, mainstream lines might find the onboard atmosphere more reserved and quiet.
- Refined Entertainment: The entertainment is sophisticated and tailored to a mature British audience, which may not suit those seeking high-energy nightlife or Broadway-style blockbusters.
- Specific Demographic: The exclusively over-50s policy creates a very specific social environment that, while a key selling point for most, may feel limiting to some younger companions.
Environmental & Sustainability Efforts
Saga is committed to responsible and sustainable tourism, with a focus on minimising its environmental impact. Their modern ships were built to be highly efficient. This incorporates the latest technology to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Key environmental initiatives include:
- Efficient Ship Design: The new vessels feature optimised hulls and propulsion systems to reduce fuel usage and are equipped to connect to shore power where available.
- Waste Management: Advanced wastewater treatment systems are installed, which treat water to a standard that often exceeds international regulations before it is discharged.
- Single-Use Plastic Reduction: The company is actively working to eliminate non-essential single-use plastics across its fleet.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Saga focuses on sourcing food and supplies locally in ports where possible to reduce food miles and support local economies.
For the most detailed and current information, please refer to the cruise line’s official sustainability reports.
Official Websites
To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is crucial to use the official Saga Cruises websites. Saga primarily serves the UK market. Therefore, their main web presence is focused on this region.
The primary official websites are:
- United Kingdom Site (Ocean Cruises): https://travel.saga.co.uk/cruises/ocean.aspx
- United Kingdom Site (River Cruises): https://travel.saga.co.uk/cruises/river.aspx
Always ensure the website URL is correct to avoid phishing scams.
Required Travel Documents
Ensuring you have the correct travel documents is one of the most critical steps in cruise preparation. Failure to present the required documents at check-in will result in denial of boarding. No refunds will be provided in this situation.
Key documentation requirements include:
- Passport Validity: All guests must carry a full passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the final day of the cruise. This is a strict cruise line policy.
- Visas: It is the passenger’s responsibility to determine if any visas are required for the ports on their itinerary and to obtain them in advance.
- Cruise Tickets: Your e-tickets and luggage labels must be printed and brought with you to the port.
A critical point to remember is that a cruise line’s rules can override a country’s entry rules. For example, a European country might only require your passport to be valid for 3 months, but if Saga’s policy is 6 months, you must adhere to the 6-month rule. The cruise line’s policy is final.
Travelling with Minors (as a Non-Guardian)
Saga Cruises has a strict age policy that makes this scenario highly unlikely. All guests must be aged 50 or over at the time of travel. A travelling companion is permitted if they are aged 40 or over.
Therefore, issues regarding travelling with minors do not typically arise on Saga cruises. This policy ensures an adult-focused environment onboard. It is a key part of the Saga cruise experience.
Key requirements for non-guardian travel include:
- Age Policy: The minimum age for any guest is 40, provided they are travelling with someone who is 50 or over. No one under 40 is permitted.
- General Maritime Policy: For general awareness on other cruise lines, an adult travelling with a minor for whom they are not the legal guardian would require a notarised letter of consent from the child’s legal guardians.
Failure to provide required documentation can result in denial of boarding. Always verify requirements well in advance.
Onboard Safety & Permitted Items
Guest safety is the highest priority, which includes a mandatory safety drill before sailing and strict rules on prohibited items. All luggage is scanned upon embarkation. Prohibited items will be confiscated and may not be returned.
Key safety rules and permitted items policies include:
- Mandatory Safety Drill: All guests must attend the muster drill before the ship departs.
- Prohibited Electronics: Items with heating elements, such as clothing irons, travel steamers, and hot plates, are forbidden due to the fire risk.
- Weapons and Sharp Objects: Firearms, ammunition, explosives, and sharp objects like knives (other than small, personal grooming items) are strictly prohibited.
- Drones: Drones are typically not permitted to be operated on the ship but may be allowed for use ashore, subject to local regulations.
For a complete list of prohibited items, please consult the cruise line’s official website before you pack.
Medications & Prohibited Substances Policy
There are clear rules regarding the carriage of medications and a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. It’s essential to pack medications correctly to avoid any issues. The ship’s medical centre has limited supplies.
Key policies include:
- Prescription Medications: Guests must bring a sufficient supply of any necessary medications. They must be kept in their original packaging with clear labels and should be packed in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
- Supporting Documents: It is highly recommended to carry a copy of the prescription or a letter from your doctor detailing your condition and the medications required.
- Illegal Substances: The possession or use of any illegal drugs is strictly forbidden. This is grounds for immediate disembarkation at the guest’s expense and involvement of local law enforcement.
- CBD and Medicinal Cannabis: These products are not permitted onboard, as their legal status varies by port and they are illegal in international waters.
The cruise line has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal substances. Consult the cruise line for any questions regarding specific medications.
Food Policy
Saga Cruises provides a comprehensive, high-quality dining experience. To maintain health and safety standards, rules are in place regarding bringing food on and taking food off the ship. These regulations are important for the wellbeing of all guests.
Bringing Food Onboard
Due to health and safety regulations, bringing fresh or perishable food items onboard is generally not permitted. This is to prevent the risk of foodborne illnesses. Guests with specific dietary needs should discuss them with the cruise line in advance.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Permitted Items: Commercially sealed, pre-packaged, and non-perishable snacks (like biscuits or crisps) are usually allowed in small quantities.
- Prohibited Items: Homemade foods, fresh fruit, meat, and dairy products from shore cannot be brought onto the ship.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Taking Food Off the Ship
For public health reasons, guests are not allowed to take fresh food from the ship’s restaurants or buffet ashore. This is a standard maritime regulation. It helps prevent the spread of agricultural pests and diseases.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Prohibited Items: Fresh fruit, vegetables, sandwiches, and dairy products cannot be taken off the ship in port.
- Permitted Items: You can, however, take sealed, pre-packaged items like a box of biscuits or bottled water off the ship with you.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Bringing Food Back from Port
Bringing fresh food items back onto the ship from ports of call is strictly prohibited. This is to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Local agricultural products can pose a significant biosecurity risk.
Key rules regarding this policy include:
- Strictly Prohibited: Fresh fruit, vegetables, plants, and unprocessed meat or fish products are not allowed back on the ship.
- Packaged Goods: Sealed and professionally packaged local delicacies like cured meats or cheeses may be allowed but could be subject to inspection and confiscation.
These policies are in place for health and safety reasons and are subject to local customs regulations.
Current Starting Ports (2025)
Saga Cruises specialises in no-fly cruises, offering convenient departures directly from the United Kingdom. This is a key part of their appeal to the British market. The included chauffeur service makes reaching these ports seamless.
For 2025, the primary UK departure ports for ocean cruises are:
Sample Itineraries: A Taste of Saga Cruises
Saga offers a wide variety of itineraries, from short breaks to grand voyages, all departing from the UK. Here are a few examples that showcase their typical offerings. These highlight their focus on scenic beauty and cultural exploration.
Norwegian Fjords Discovery
This classic itinerary offers breathtaking scenery and charming ports directly from the UK. The smaller size of Saga’s ships allows them to navigate into the heart of the majestic fjords. A relaxing pace ensures plenty of time to soak in the dramatic landscapes.
- Best For: Scenery lovers and those seeking a classic, relaxing cruise experience.
- Duration: 7-8 nights
- Departure Port: Dover or Portsmouth
- Example Ship: Spirit of Discovery
- Typical Ports of Call: Stavanger, Olden, Flåm, Bergen
Canary Islands Winter Sun
An ideal escape from the British winter, this voyage heads south to the year-round warmth of the Canary Islands and Madeira. The itinerary balances relaxing sea days with exploration of volcanic landscapes. It’s a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
- Best For: Those seeking winter sunshine without the need to fly.
- Duration: 14-16 nights
- Departure Port: Portsmouth
- Example Ship: Spirit of Adventure
- Typical Ports of Call: Funchal (Madeira), Santa Cruz (Tenerife), Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Arrecife (Lanzarote), Lisbon (Portugal)
Ancient Isles of the Mediterranean
A longer voyage that delves into the rich history and culture of the Mediterranean. This itinerary combines iconic historical sites with beautiful coastlines. The all-inclusive nature of the cruise makes it a comfortable way to explore multiple destinations.
- Best For: History buffs and those wanting an in-depth European exploration.
- Duration: 18-21 nights
- Departure Port: Portsmouth
- Example Ship: Spirit of Discovery
- Typical Ports of Call: Gibraltar, Valletta (Malta), Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Rome (Civitavecchia), Cartagena (Spain)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is the age policy for Saga Cruises?
All passengers must be aged 50 or over. A companion travelling with them may be aged 40 or over. - Are gratuities included on Saga Cruises?
Yes, all tips and service charges are included in your cruise fare. There is no need to tip any staff onboard. - Is Wi-Fi free on Saga Cruises?
Yes, standard Wi-Fi is included for all guests throughout the ship. - What drinks are included in the fare?
A selection of house wines at lunch and dinner, Saga-branded spirits, all draught beers and lagers, and all soft drinks are included 24 hours a day. - Are speciality restaurants an extra cost?
No, dining in all restaurants, including the speciality venues, is included in your fare. Reservations are essential and can be made before you sail. - Is there a formal night?
Yes, there are typically two formal nights per 7-night cruise. While not mandatory, guests are encouraged to dress smartly, with many opting for dinner jackets or cocktail dresses. - Are shore excursions included?
A selection of shore excursions is included in the fare for most itineraries. Additional, more specialised tours are available for purchase. - How many single cabins are on the ships?
Approximately 20% of the cabins on Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure are dedicated to solo travellers, all of which have a private balcony. - Is travel insurance included?
Yes, a comprehensive travel insurance policy with up to £10m of emergency medical cover is included as standard for all guests. - Does the chauffeur service cover all of the UK?
The complimentary private chauffeur service is included for guests living up to 250 miles from the departure port. For distances over this, a supplement may apply.
A Word of Caution: Cruise Scams
When planning your voyage, it is essential to remain highly vigilant against potential scam attempts that target travellers. Be aware of these common red flags:
- “Free Cruise” or “Exclusive Offer” Traps: Be highly suspicious of any unsolicited calls, emails, or messages claiming you’ve won a free cruise or are eligible for an impossibly low-priced “exclusive” deal. These invariably come with hidden fees, demands for immediate payment for “port taxes,” or are simply phishing attempts to collect your personal data. Many major cruise lines have had their names used in such fraudulent schemes.
- Fake Websites and Phishing Attempts: Scammers create convincing fake websites that mimic the cruise line’s official site. Always manually type the official website address into your browser and double-check the URL very carefully before entering any payment or personal data.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Be wary of any offer that demands an immediate decision due to a “limited-time offer” that is about to expire. This tactic is used by fraudsters to prevent you from doing proper research or verifying the offer’s legitimacy.
- Unusual Payment Requests: Never agree to pay for a cruise via untraceable methods like wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. Legitimate cruise lines and their authorised travel partners use secure, traceable payment methods like credit cards.
To ensure your journey with Saga Cruises begins safely, always book directly through their official website for your region or through a well-established, reputable travel adviser. If an offer feels suspicious, contact Saga Cruises directly using the official contact information found on their verified website, not from the suspicious communication itself. Booking through official channels ensures your voyage begins with complete peace of mind.
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Disclaimer
The Essential Cruise Shop provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
We cannot be held liable for any financial loss due to the reader’s failure to follow the above advice.
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