Q. What are the most important things to take with me?
Your ticket, passport, spending money, camera, sun cream and essential medication.

Note: Keep your passport on you as you need to present it to Immigration Officials before boarding ship.

Keep your medication and all valuable items on you or locked safely in your hand luggage.

Q. How much luggage can we take?
There is no weight restriction for cruising, but only luggage which can be carried over gangways and kept in a cabin is allowed on board. We recommend you take smaller bags so as not to clutter your cabin area.

Q. Can my family and friends contact me when I am at sea?
The Sinfonia has a Satellite telephone on board. This service is VERY expensive and should be used for emergencies only.

Tel: Int. 00 870 335671611 / 621
Fax: Int. 00 870 335671614 / 1623

Q. How do I make sure I don't "miss the boat"?
The ship sets sail from Durban at 14h00 sharp on the day of departure . All passengers must embark between 10h30 and 13h00 on that day.

Q. What is the best way to travel to Durban
You can fly to Durban Airport and take a shuttle service to the harbour, drive by car or take advantage of one of three specially tailored Sinfonia Express luxury coach tour packages.

The Sinfonia Express
The Sinfonia Express operates from Johannesburg to Durban return and gives you the option of enjoying a stop-over in the magnificent Drakensberg mountains or a night in Durban itself with the option of a visit to the city's famous Ushaka Sea World.

This way you can start your holiday within minutes of leaving home!
See below to make your choice from our detailed itineraries or call our reservations office for more information. 

Q. If I fly to Durban what flights should I book?

Arriving in time for the ship's departure:
We recommend that you book flights to arrive no later than 11h30 on the day of the Sinfonia's departure as any delays in the flights could cause you to miss the ship.

Flying home after the cruise:
The Sinfonia arrives back in Durban Harbour by 08h00 on the final day of your cruise. Clearance by port authorities and disembarkation can take some time. 

If you plan to fly home on the same day as you return to port, we recommend you book to fly out of Durban after 13h00 that day.

Q. How do I get from Durban airport to the harbour and back?
There is a continuous shuttle bus service between Durban Airport and the Port when the Sinfonia is in harbour.
Shuttle tickets are on sale at the airport and the harbour at R70 per person each way.
Or you give yourself peace of mind by phoning our reservation offices before you leave and we will pre-book your shuttle tickets for you! 

Q. If I arrive by car can I park in Durban harbour while I am away?
Parking is available in the port on a first come first served basis. Parking fees are payable directly to the port, in cash, at a cost of R70 per night.

All vehicles are parked at the owner's risk and Starlight Cruises and MSC Cruises will not be liable for any loss or damage to any vehicles or articles therein, whatsoever, or through any cause whatsoever.  Drivers are required to sign an indemnity at the Port.

Q. What is the embarkation procedure?
Embarkation takes place at N-Shed Passenger Terminal, Durban harbour between 10h30 and 13h00 on the day of sailing.

Luggage
You will find luggage labels with your Sinfonia ticket documentation. The labels must be fixed to all of your main luggage items as you will be handing them over to the "check in" staff at the harbour for delivery to the ship. Please ensure that all bags are securely locked. 

Safety and Security
Please do not put any valuable or fragile items in your main luggage.
Items such as cameras, video cameras, jewellery, medication, documentation such as passports and ID cards,  money and credit cards should be carried in your hand luggage and kept with you at ALL times.

Your checked luggage will be screened and delivered to your cabin during the course of the afternoon on the day of sailing. Due to high volumes, please allow 2 - 3 hours after boarding for your luggage to arrive at your cabin.

Please Note: Security regulations dictate that you personallydeliver your suitcases to the luggage bay located at the rear of the passenger terminal.

Passenger embarkation

You will receive a sticker with a number on it when you arrive at the harbour. (This replaces the coloured stickers used in previous years).
When embarkation starts the numbers will be called and displayed, and you may then proceed to embarkation.

Facilities at the Port are fairly limited, and a lengthy wait at the Port is not necessarily the ideal way to start to a good holiday.  As all cabins have been assigned prior to the day of departure, no real purpose is served in arriving at the Port prior to the embarkation time starting at 10h30am.

Embarkation times do occasionally vary and are set and regulated by immigration officials and custom control authorities. We like to remind our guests that the Port facility is maintained and operated by the National Ports Authority (NPA) and not by Starlight Cruises.

Group embarkation
Please take note that special embarkation procedures apply only to Registered Groups travelling together with Group Check-in Benefits included as part of their cruise package. All other passengers will be checked in individually regardless of the number per party.

Ushaka Sea World
A fun way to avoid a long wait in the harbour is to take advantage of the special rates we have negotiated for you to visit Durban's renowned Ushaka Sea World. (See below for more details)

Q. Can my family and friends come on board to see me off?
Regretfully no visitors are allowed past security control in the passenger terminal. The ship security staff are always present during embarkation and disembarkation and follow international security regulations in the monitoring of passengers and baggage.
Our security is your security!

Q. What Travel Documents do I need?

Your Sinfonia cruise ticket
We issue your cruise tickets along with any tickets for additional services about 2 - 3 weeks prior to your departure.

The cruise tickets are available for collection from our offices. If you live outside the city limits, we can send tickets to you via "registered mail".

If you prefer that your tickets are mailed to you via "priority mail" then there is a charge of R100 within South Africa. R200 is charged for all cross border mailing.

NOTE:

If you have not received your tickets 7 days before the date of departure please call us at the Starlight Office where your booking was made.

Special circumstances for collecting tickets on Departure:
If you have booked close to departure and there isn't enough time for us to post your ticket, you will be able to collect it from the information desk in Durban harbour.  You will need to show your cabin number as stated on you booking invoice.

Your Passport

Every passenger (adult and child) will need a valid passport to clear immigration at the Port.

NO PHOTOCOPIES ARE ACCEPTED

• South African citizens with dual nationality - MUST USE THEIR SOUTH AFRICAN PASSPORT TO EXIT AND ENTER SOUTH AFRICA.
• Non-South African Citizens/Permanent Residents must have their permanent residence endorsed in their foreign passport.

Exceptions:
The only exception is for cruises that do not leave South African waters as in the Sinfonia Cruise to Nowhere.

For these cruises an official photo Identification is required - your ID Book, Passport, Driver's License or in the case of children, an original birth certificate is required.

Q. Do I need Visas and Vaccinations?

Mozambique
South African passport holders do not require visas or vaccinations for Mozambique.

All foreign passport holders will need to obtain a visa at a cost of US$25. This can be obtained on board and does not have to be pre-arranged.

Reunion
South African passport holders require visas for Reunion. They can be obtained upon arrival. Cost?

Mauritius
South African and British passport holders do not require visas for Mauritius.  

Q. Do I need to take precautions for Malaria?
Mozambique is a Malaria area, but your visit takes place during the day when mosquitoes are least active. It is best to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.

Q. What if I am pregnant?
We accept passengers up until their 26th week of pregnancy. Boarding will be declined to passengers beyond 26 weeks in accordance with the ship owner's terms and conditions.

Q. Does it matter how old I am?

Children:
When advising a child's age, it must be the age that the child will be on the date of return from the holiday. Travel may be refused or costings adjusted if the date of birth on the child's passport differs from the age given on the ticket.

70 years and older:
Passengers over 70 years of age require a doctor's certificate verifying their fitness to travel. The certificate must be dated within 30 days of travel. No travel documents will be released until we are in receipt of this certificate.

Q. Can my infant share my cabin with me?
Yes, if you use the existing bedding. A release will need to be signed agreeing to these conditions of travel.

If you need a cot for your infant  please ensure that it is requested at the time of booking as there are limited cots on board. Alternatively you may bring your infant's camp cot on board with you.

Q. How do dinner sittings work?
On most cruises, there are two sittings for dinner. The Il Galeone and the Il Covo Restaurants are used for both dinner sittings. The first sitting is at approximately 18h30 and the second at 20h45. 

Note: Dinner reservations are made during the embarkation process. If you want to sit with friends and family, please make sure you embark together.
Lunches and breakfasts are generally open sittings and guests can choose between a casual buffet or the more formal Il Galeone for their meal. 

Q. Do you cater for special dietary needs?
A vegetarian choice is served at each meal time. Halaal meat is available on board. We regret that we cannot cater for Kosher meals.

Q. Can we take liquor on board?
International liquor and duty-free regulations prohibit guests from bringing any beverages on board -  both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. Security checks do take place and beverages may be confiscated. Liquor purchased on board at the duty free will be held until disembarkation.

Q. Can we take food on board?
Company regulations and safety requirements do not permit passengers or ship personnel to take any beverage or food items onboard.

Q. Can I take my fire arm on board?
Durban harbour is a gun-free Port.  Firearms, weapons and sharp objects are not permitted in the Port area or on board. Any passenger failing to comply with security regulations will be disembarked from the cruise.

Q. How can I stay in touch with friends and family back home?
Mobile phone
Mobile phones rely on signal received from cell phone towers, thus cell phones have no signal at sea. Occasional signal is picked up while cruising along the coast. Many foreign Ports do have signal, but your phone will need to be enabled for International Roaming so please consult with your service provider before you leave. 

On board communication facilities
There is an onboard satellite telephone and fax facility but this is expensive and should be reserved for emergencies only.

Internet facilities are available onboard at a charge.

Q. Will my South African electrical appliances work on board?
The Sinfonia runs on both 110v and 220v. The plug sockets are American (110v) and European round 2 pin (220v). The South African 3 pin plug will require a European 2 pin round adapter.
Hairdryers are available in the cabin.

Q. Is there a Doctor on board?
The ship has a medical facility staffed by a doctor and nursing personnel. This is a private service and all consultations are charged for. Please note that the medical facility does not operate as a pharmacy and a consultation with the doctor is required prior to any medicine being dispensed.

We highly recommend that you take all necessary medications on board with you.

Please note, the AIG insurance does not cover this doctor.

Q. What if I get sea-sick?
There is so much to do that most passengers don't even think about getting seasick. However, a very small percentage of people are susceptible to motion sickness, which is caused by the confusion of the senses, mainly sight and balance.

If you are predisposed to motion sickness, several excellent non-prescription drugs (eg: Stugeron,or Avonmine) and various homeopathic remedies (eg: Pegasus) are available on the market. It is best to start taking this medication 24 hours prior to cruising.

Fresh air and being on deck are excellent natural remedies. Movement of the ship is also reduced with stabilisers.

Q. What if I have a disability or have Special Needs
If you or any member of your party have any medical condition or disability that need special travel, accommodation or dietary requirements please phone our reservations team BEFORE you book your holiday to ensure that we can adequately provide for you onboard.

Q. What if I need help on board?
The information / reception desk is open 24 hours.
There are several heads of department who can also attend to your queries depending on what assistance you need.

Q. What if I am celebrating a special occasion?
Congratulations!  If you are celebrating a birthday, an anniversary or a special occasion we will try and help make it truly memorable! Simply advise reception as soon after embarkation as possible to give them time to prepare your special cake or treat. Note: A charge will be involved. 

Q. Is there an activity programme for youngsters?
A fun and exciting activity programme for children aged between 4 and 12 years takes place every full day at sea from 09h00 - 12h00 & 14h00 - 17h00. An evening activity programme is also available from 20h00 until 23h00.

A children's play area is also available for children aged 2 - 4 years of age, however a supervising parent must be present at all time.

An orientation meeting for all parents and children is held on the first afternoon on board.

See your daily programme delivered to your cabin for details of activities which range from  treasure hunts to fun sports, creative activities and games.

Q. Is there babysitting on board?
Due to Insurance Regulations, private  babysitting is not available on board. 

Note: Infants aged from 12 - 24 months old are not permitted in the child care centre as there are no sleeping facilities separated from playing areas.

Q. What is there for adults to do on board?
The great thing about cruising is you can choose to do as much or as little as you like. 

You can plan your day with our comprehensive daily programme which is delivered to your cabin every day. It includes information on all activities, shows, services, meals and dress codes.

For outdoor enthusiasts there are a variety of sports to choose from. For those that enjoy being active, there are various exercise & dance programmes on offer every sea day.

Day activities may include lecture presentations, creativity classes, fun activities on the deck and indoor game shows. Daily crosswords, Sudoku, brainteasers and word search puzzles are also available.

Other facilities include swimming pools, jacuzzis, a gymnasium, a jogging track, the casino, duty free shops and movies.

In the evenings, more exciting entertainment options include live bands, the disco and our famous Deck Party!

In addition, every night we host cabaret shows featuring local and international artists.

Q. How much money do we need?
Meals and entertainment are included in your cruise fare. You will need spending money for drinks, duty free shopping, photos, gambling - including Bingo, service fee, laundry, beauty salon and any optional shore excursions you would like to book.  All prices on board are in US Dollars.

Q. How do we pay for goods & services?
For the convenience of all guests, the ship uses a cashless system.  Every passenger (including children) will receive a personalised ID cruise card. This card may be used for all your purchases on board. On request, any cards (for a family for example) can be linked to a master account.

How do I activate my cruise card?
To activate your cruise card/s (only 1 member per family need do this), a deposit of US$250 per cabin - or the Rand equivalent- must be lodged at the accounting desk on board.  You may then spend up to the amount of the deposit  paid. You can top up this amount during the cruise if needed. At the end of the cruise, when you close your account, you will receive any change owing to you in US Dollars.

Activating your Cruise card with your bank Credit Cards

IMPORTANT
Please note that DEBIT CARDS and CHEQUE CARDS as well as Diners and Amex Cards are NOT accepted onboard.

All other credit cards are accepted, however we would highly recommend that you activate your cruise card utilising CASH, either US Dollars or Rand.

Although we do not recommend it, you are able to activate your cruise card with your bank credit card. Should you opt to pay by credit card, your credit card will be "swiped" and pre-authorised for the amount of approximately USD$250.00. This pre-authorisation is only an estimate of the amount that could be utilised during your time on board.

This pre-authorisation is not an actual debit and the amount is "blocked" on your credit card for the period of 7-15 working days after your disembarkation.  After this period has lapsed your bank automatically releases the pre-authorised amount. The only amount debited to your credit card will be the amount that corresponds with the invoice signed prior to disembarkation.

Should you have any concerns about this, we highly recommend you use CASH to activate your account.

Small amounts of European currencies and Travellers Cheques can be changed on board at the Purser's Office - commission charges apply.

What money do I use in the Casino
The Casino only accepts CASH
The Casino does not accept credit cards or cheques - only cash.

Q. What about a service fee?
Tipping is a globally accepted way of thanking personnel who have taken care of you during your cruise. For your convenience a recommended daily gratuity of USD $ 4 per adult and USD$ 2 per child per day, will be added to your cruise account accordingly, covering all service staff. 

The Service Charges for the 2010/2011 season will be $6 per day for adults and $3 per child.

Of course, this practice is optional and for this reason you can decide at any time to alter this charge by contacting hotel reception.

Q. What happens when we get to our destination?
Landings are always weather dependent and the decision to proceed lies solely with the Captain. Safety is always our primary concern. Some of our destinations have no harbour facilities and to transport passengers ashore, we use inflatable rubber zodiacs. To maintain our excellent safety record we require the co-operation of all passengers.  A short briefing hosted by the Cruise Director will inform passengers about the destination, the landing procedure and any optional excursions available. This briefing will be advertised in your daily programme.

Q. Tell me more about the Zodiac transfer.
To get to our beach destinations, passengers will be escorted in small groups to the gangway and then assisted into Zodiacs, known as "rubber ducks". These ducks will then transfer the passengers to the beach. Beach sand can get very hot so shoes are always recommended.  Depending on the condition of the sea and wind, sea spray can sometimes enter the boat. We suggest you wrap any electronic equipment in plastic to prevent damage. A travel bag is essential for your day trip items. Starlight Cruises travel bags are available for purchase from our offices or at the harbour on day of embarkation.

Q. Can we snorkel at the destinations?
Yes, but please take note that there is no gear available on board to hire, and if you intend to snorkel, it is advisable to bring your own.  Barra Lodge and Portuguese Island do offer a snorkel excursion with gear hire included from a local source although fin sizes and condition of equipment are not guaranteed.  A limited range of snorkelling equipment will be available for purchase at Durban harbour prior to boarding the ship.

Q. What else can we do on the Islands?
That depends on you. Our destinations are so diverse and consequently offer completely different activities and facilities.  A dedicated landing team will assist you once ashore. They will provide all relevant information regarding swimming areas, children's facilities and any local attractions. Please take special note of the relevant boarding times to avoid missing the last transfers back to the ship.

Q. Do I need take bath and beach towels?
Bath towels and pool / beach towels available on board.

Q. What is the Dress Code?
During the day casual wear is encouraged although no bathing suits are permitted in the main restaurant. A buffet breakfast and lunch are available on deck should you prefer casual dining.

Evenings are generally smart casual (from 18h00) with a formal night on any cruise 4 nights or longer. Every cruise has a PARTY NIGHT where guests are encouraged to dress up bright & bold and anything goes. 
Although the summer evenings are generally warm, it is advisable to bring a light jumper in case of a sea breeze or to wear indoors as most venues are fully air-conditioned.

Q. Will there be time to visit uShaka Sea World before or after our cruise on the Sinfonia.

Visiting uShaka before your cruise
If you arrive in Durban before 10h00 on the day of your cruise departure we can arrange entrance tickets for you to visit uShaka Sea World (not Wet ‘n Wild).
The airport shuttle bus will stop at uShaka on the way to the harbour and drop you off along with ALL your luggage. There is a lock up facility at Ushaka for all luggage.

To avoid the possibility of lost or misplaced luggage, it is essential that your luggage is well labelled with your name and cabin number before boarding the shuttle bus. Special luggage labels for this purpose will form part of your final cruise documentation. Make sure to keep your passports and cruise tickets with you, Do not pack any items of value in your main luggage.

The shuttle bus  from uShaka to the Port departs from uShaka  at 12h00 midday. Once at the Port you will need to proceed through the normal embarkation procedure. Should you miss the last shuttle, please make your own way to the Port as soon as possible.
Keep in  mind that the ship sails at 14h00 sharp. 

(Note: if you visit uShaka before your cruise, you might not be able to book the early dinner sitting)

We have negotiated a special entrance rate for uShaka Sea World (not Wet 'n Wild) of R70.00 per person. This amount is over and above the R70.00 cost of the shuttle itself. The combined cost of the shuttle and uShaka will therefore be R120.00 per person.

Visiting uShaka after your cruise
Likewise we have negotiated special rates for passengers wishing to visit UShaka Sea World (not Wet ‘n Wild) after the cruise at a cost of R 50.00 per person.

Ushaka tickets can be pre-booked with our reservations offices. Alternatively the tickets are on sale at the harbour on the day of disembarkation. The shuttle bus will stop at uShaka on the way to the airport from the Port. There is a storage room for your luggage at uShaka. Remember do not leave any valuable items in the storage area. The shuttle bus then returns to collect passengers for the airport at 13h00 (there is only one transfer from uShaka to the airport). This transfer only occurs on the day that the ship is in Port. Should you require a transfer to the airport at a later time or date, you will need to make your own way to the airport.