FAQ

Joining a Cruise
1. Can I join the cruise by myself?
About 60% of passengers join Peace Boat Cruises on their own. These guests come from diverse backgrounds and range from junior high school students to seniors in their 90's. There are also passengers who bring their children and participate in the cruise as a family. In this unique environment, "solo travelers" can easily meet new friends and enjoy the pleasures of "group travel" as well. Whether you are joining by yourself or with other friends, you are sure to make great memories.
2. What is included in the price of my cruise?
The fare includes: your berth (cabin), 3 meals a day, morning coffee, afternoon tea, onboard events and lectures (some onboard activities may require additional fees).
3. I'm concerned about joining the cruise with a chronic illness. Can I still join?
When you apply to join a cruise, local travel agent will assist you with valuable information to prepare for your trip as well as guidance regarding our onboard health services. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact them.
Before You Board
1. What should I pack for my cruise?
You will receive the "Welcome Aboard" booklet before your departure. Inside, you will find the checklist listing information regarding recommended items for your trip such as clothing, daily necessities, credit cards, valuables and useful goods at port of calls etc.
2. Should I bring a credit card?
You can pay for onboard services with a credit card (VISA, MasterCard, JCB, AMEX). In many ports of call, you can also use credit cards to avoid the hassle of exchanging money. We do not recommend that you bring traveler's checks as they cannot be used on board and there are very few shops onshore where they are accepted. Those who wish to settle bills for onboard services with cash will be required to leave a cash deposit of 300 US Dollars or 30,000 yen. Onboard currency is JPY.
3. How much cash should I bring?
You can settle your bills for onboard services (drinks at bars, laundry, Internet service, shop purchases, etc.) with a credit card. Thus, cash is most useful for your time in ports. The amount of cash that each passenger brings will differ, however, many people bring about 3,000 USD per person. Depending on the route of the trip, passengers may choose to divide that amount between Euros and US Dollars. Of course, your budget may differ and this amount is simply an estimate to help give you an idea of the amount of cash that others bring on the voyage. We recommend that you bring more than you think you'll need. There is a personal safety deposit box in your cabin for storing cash and valuable items during the voyage.
4. How can I exchange money and acquire local currency?
There are local currency exchange services after the ship docks in port. Currency exchange is offered from US Dollars to the local currency.
Onboard Life
1. Is there a Casino on board?
There is not a casino on board. We organize a variety of onboard events.
2. What is the food like?
We work hard to provide a balance of delicious and healthy food for the 3-month trip. Breakfast and lunch are buffet-style with options to choose from both Japanese and Western dishes. Dinner is a set menu that changes nightly and is often a Japanese-style meal. The ship is supplied with food at the various ports of call in order to ensure a fresh and creative menu. There are also themed menus for different events and special occasions.
3. Are there accommodations for vegetarians?
Yes, we make accommodations for vegetarians. Please make a request one month prior to your departure. If you have specific requests or questions regarding dietary restrictions, please consult with staff.
4. Can I drink alcohol on board?
Alcoholic beverages are sold at the onboard shop, bars, vending machines, etc.
5. Is there dental treatment available on board?
The onboard infirmary does not provide dental care. As there may be limited or insufficient dental care facilities in port, we strongly recommend completing any necessary dental treatment prior to joining a cruise.
6. How do I prevent or treat motion sickness or seasickness?
Passengers get used to the ship's motion after a certain time and there are several ways to help prevent seasickness. If you ever start to feel seasick, you can take one of the seasickness pills that are available on board. To help mitigate seasickness, it is also a good idea to get sufficient sleep, wear comfortable clothing, and avoid eating too much.
7. How can I do my laundry?
Onboard laundry service is available with a fee JPY 800 / bag. You can wash your clothes by using the laundry machines located at each floor with a fee (JPY 600~700) as well. *Price subjects to change without prior notice.
8. What kinds of clothing should I bring?
We will provide you with basic information regarding climate and average temperatures at ports of call for you to consider while packing. The environment on board is casual (T-shirts, shorts, sneakers, etc. are OK). However there are several occasions during the voyage when there will be formal parties. For such occasions, many men wear jackets and neckties and many women wear dresses. It is also popular for guests to wear ethnic clothing purchased at one of the ports. Don't worry too much about these "formal" parties on board Peace Boat as they are not overly formal. Think of them as a chance to enjoy a more stylish night out by getting dressed up with your new friends.
Onboard Communication
1. Can I use the Internet onboard?
Wi-Fi service is provided with a fee and can be used at public spaces and cabins. Price ; JPY 2,100/100min. *Price subjects to change without prior notice.
2. How can I stay in contact with my friends and family back home?
You can connect with friends and family through phone, fax, Internet, SNS,and mail. We will provide you with the contact details of the ship and ports of call prior to your departure. Please share these details with family and friends who may want to get in touch with you during the voyage.
Time in Ports
1. How can I spend my time in ports?
We offer original optional tours to explore the ports we visit. These tours may include visits to major tourist attractions and chances to experience the breathtaking natural landscape of the region. We also organize very unique tours to experience local culture and engage in meaningful cross-cultural exchange. You may also choose to explore independently while the ship is in port as well. Registered passengers will be provided with information about optional tours almost 6 months before.