Bursting with COLOR
A Colorful Adventure to the Caribbean with Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably & Liza Lucy
February 26 – March 4, 2020
Imagine the vivid colors of the Caribbean, then imagine them with the Glorious Color Masters, Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably and Liza Prior Lucy.
Cruise Only Pricing begins at $949
Workshop fee with Kaffe, Brandon, Liza, $469
~Space is Limited -Kaffe Fasset’s classes are full, his lecture is open~
Travel Protection
Frequently Asked Questions – Cruises
World of Quilts Travel offers cruises and/or tours with something for everyone. It is Deb’s goal to provide something unique, showing you a different side of travel while sharing her love of quilts, textiles, traditional crafts and culture.
Our adventures are specifically designed for those who have similar interests and provide a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and share this unique experience with like-minded travelers of all ages.
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about our trips. If you have any questions which are not answered here or on our FAQ pages for our Tours or Cruises please don’t hesitate to email and I will be happy to get back to you as soon as I can.
When the terminology “quilt tour” is used, I suppose it does conjure up the vision of ladies and gentlemen traveling to work on quilt. However, quilts and/or textiles are the passion that often brings the group together, and there is not always an active quilting component on every group.
The purpose for the experience varies from group to group. I have groups of quilt and textile historians that travel to see historic pieces while other groups travel to shop for exotic and hard to find fabrics. Still, others travel for the fellowship with those who share their enthusiasm. It seems that when one exists, often the actual quilting project is not as important as spending time with others who have a built in connection through quilts and quilt-making.
How often they travel often depends upon their economic and family situation. I have some clients who have been on many of our trips, others who travel with me once a year, and some who look at a single tour as a way to a brief respite from the ordinary.
Outside of providing value in a quilt and textile related vacation experience, inspiration is the key essential on any trip; this is found in many ways. Quilters and textile enthusiasts are often inspired by landscapes, museum visits, quilts and textiles they see, by sharing with each other and the bonds they make with their fellow travelers. While the focus of any itinerary is inspired by quilts, a theme is often important in terms of how local quilt-making customs or historic textiles relate to the community that is being visited. One activity that most everyone looks forward to is any opportunity to shop for unusual or locally produced fabrics that will further inspire their quilt-making once they return home.
On our quilt history tours, for those who are historians, I feel it is important to include visits to historic archives and provide unusual opportunities to see antique quilts that are not often available for public viewing. An essential element for me then as a quilter as well as a quilt historian is to have a professional relationship with my colleagues within these institutions as this often opens doors to archives where we would not otherwise have access.
I believe it is helpful when the planner is knowledgeable about quilts and spends time with quilters in areas not surrounded by travel. As a quilter, show judge, appraiser and author, I spend a lot of time around quilts and quilt-makers. This helps me know their special interests and my tours are planned specifically around these things; they are not tours planned and then marketed to those who make quilts. In order for them to produce results, I have noticed a number of “quilt tour” providers that have hired a guest quilter to accompany a land tour group. Many times, this may seem like a benefit to the traveler, but, just as often, an additional cost is added to the tour in order to pay for the famous named guest who is coming along. I will not burden my travelers with those types of additional charges. If I feel that having such a guest would benefit a group or the overall tour experience, I will have one, but it is not a factor I often consider.
It is also important to have knowledge of class and workshop limitations. When planning actual quilting classes the planner should be aware of time constraints, materials and the facility suitability to the project.
I believe my most popular destinations to date have been Ireland, France and Bali, each for different reasons. The beauty of Ireland speaks for itself and we enjoy many scenic vistas along our way. Additionally, we stop at quilt shops up and down the Emerald Isle. Often, we’ve been compared to an “Irish Quilt Shop Hop”. France is known in history for its contributions to both the fabric and quilt world, and Bali for its exquisite batik fabrics and special culture.
Our most popular cruises have been the ones that go to Alaska, the European Christmas Markets or international destinations such as the Baltic or Asia.
The most popular activity by far is shopping. I try to plan tours that not only offer rewarding textile experiences but also provide a truly memorable experience. Most of my travelers choose a destination they have always wanted to visit.
As a quilter and travel enthusiast, I plan each tour as if I am planning it for myself or my family. I take every stop into consideration. It sometimes takes weeks or longer to create the perfect itinerary. To me, travel is about the total experience as well as providing a good value and I do all that I can to keep the travel experience affordable. I am not a large travel agency; all of my group travel experiences are simply about quilts and textiles.
When selecting a quilt tour or cruise provider, it is important to note there may be others who promote quilt trips that will happen to coincide with their other special-interest group tours. While it might be a fun group I believe that it might be surprise for a group of 10 quilters to find themselves sharing a motor coach with poker players (this has happened). This would be a convenient way for some to fill a coach, but I do not mind keeping my groups small. I find when everyone in a group shares the same passion, bonding is almost instant. Always ask your quilt tour provider if they are promoting the same tour or cruise to any other type of hobby or interest group.
I promote quilt related travel simply for the joy of sharing the world of quilts and textiles with others. I love to travel – and what better way is there to see things than with others who share similar interests.
Our travelers are of all ages and from all parts of the world. They share a passion for quilts and quilting, textiles, arts and crafts, and share a desire to connect with the lives and cultures in the places they visit. Many who travel with us are first time travelers, while others have done a lot of travel in the past but are looking for something unique that they can’t organize on their own and/or enjoy the company of others with the same interests. The age group of our tour participants ranges from around 35 to 85 years of age but we have had travelers from 13 up join our groups.
Yes absolutely – although we focus on quilts and textiles there is always something else for those with other interests to do or see. In general, about 20 – 25% of our groups are companions in this category. We always have husbands who come along, so if you want to bring yours, chances are he will not be the only one.
While Deb does provide a variety of visits, hands-on classes and workshops they are not mandatory. This is your vacation; you may do whatever you like. While the activities are designed for every level and many are purely for fun and interaction with the local people, if there are any activities that you don’t want to do – just let us know and we will suggest alternative activities for you or you may adventure out on your own.
Some of the tours do have periods that require active walking and a few may feature extended coach or train rides (greater than 4 hours) We have found that most people of normal fitness and mobility are able to participate fully. Those who may have difficulty walking may participate at a level comfortable to them. Please see our terms and conditions regarding health issues. Because we are not aware of any individual’s health condition, we do ask that you receive an okay from your health practitioner to participate on any of our tours.
Our groups are a mix of single travelers, couples and friends. If you are a solo traveler and wish to share with someone we will attempt to find someone else on the tour who wishes to share a room. If there is no one wanting to share the only difference in your cost is that of the single room supplement that we pay to our hotels or you may choose not to participate with a full refund of your deposit.
Yes, we provide travel protection through several suppliers. On your trip web page, a link is provided to the travel insurance coverage which will also provide you with information about the insurer. You may choose to purchase travel protection through us, or from any provider of your choice. There are many online travel insurance options available to you.
No, we provide it as an option to you, or you can purchase it from any travel insurance provider. However, because unexpected things do happen, we strongly suggest that you have coverage.
Yes, your deposit is completely refundable (less a $100 administration fee, $200 administration fee if on a Viking Cruise) if you change your travel plans and cancel up to 45 days prior to the final payment deadline. Please refer to our terms and conditions for additional tour or cruise refund rules.
Final payment is approximately 90 days prior to the beginning of any cruise or tour. You will receive an invoice by email about 30 days prior to the deadline.
You may pay with a personal check (if you reside in the US), money order, cashier or bank check (if you reside outside of the US) or, you may use PayPal or Google Pay. Please note, the quoted tour price includes a 3% discount for those paying in by check. Those who choose to pay through PayPal using a credit card will not receive this discount.
You may still sign up for the trip after the final payment deadline, providing there is still space available. We will need your payment in full at the time your register however.
You are required to have a passport valid for six months past your tour date for trips outside your country of citizenship.
Most of our tours do not require special immunizations, but some do. Your health care provider is the best judge as to what you may need for your trip. To guide you as to possible immunizations suggested for your itinerary, please refer to http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.
I am hoping that some of these answers to frequently asked questions about our cruises and cruise events will help you learn more about our programs, if not, please feel free to ask your questions by emailing me at info@worldofquiltstravel.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
We suggest that you register as soon as you know you want to join us. Many of our cruises categories (sometimes including the entire ship) sell out quickly and we have disappointed would be travelers.
We only use cruise lines that have universally high ratings and are also “quilter” friendly, in that they allow us to hold classes and related events without much restriction. Generally, we use the following cruise lines: Princess, Holland America and on river cruises we utilize the services of Viking
Yes, whenever they are required for a project, we provide them. We use a variety of dealers, Bernina, Janome, Brother, etc. Not familiar with the machines? No worries as we also provide technical support for the machines during the entire time that machines are in use. You will never even have to thread a needle or wind a bobbin on one of our quilting cruises, our support technicians are always there to assist you in any way so that you have an enjoyable experience.
Yes, we provide ample open sewing time each evening and at other times when class is not in session. During this time you may work on anything you wish, including Make-it/Take-it projects or demos when they are offered.
We offer inside, ocean view (window) and balcony cabins. If there are suites available to us, we will offer these as well. We will book you in the best available cabin in the category you choose – guaranteed. If you would like to request a certain cabin you may, however, it may not be in our block or it may outside of our pricing category. If this is the case we will do what we can to get you the cabin of your choice for the additional cost of the cabin. However, the reason we like to ‘guarantee’ you the best cabin in a category rather than make a choice on a particular cabin as this gives you a better chance of receiving a complimentary upgrade. If you would like us to try to book a particular cabin for you, please indicate this on the registration form.
As our cruises leave from departure ports from all over the world and our guests also come from many areas, it is impossible for us to arrange a group flight for cruises. However, this also allows you to fly when you want and from where you want at the best price you can find. It is also a way to use your airline miles or points. We will notify you as soon as we know that our cruise is a ‘go’ so that you may look for the best airfare that suits you. If you would like us to book your air for you, upon request, we are happy to do this, just let us know. We will also arrange transfers between the airport and the ship when you select the appropriate box on the registration form. If you do not wish to make your own air arrangements, we are happy to assist you.
Cruise lines generally runs buses the day of the cruise for a fee which will be a choice for you on your registration form. If you are coming in the day before, you will need to find your own transportation to the hotel and cruise terminal. Many hotels offer free transportation from the airports.
We ask that you plan to arrive no later than 12 noon on the day of your cruise departure, the earlier the better. Please take into account that there may be flight delays and book your flight so that you have an alternative should this occur.
On the day of embarkation, cruise lines suggest not booking flights that depart before 12 noon.
Frequently we will include a pre-cruise hotel option and this will be indicated on the cruise information page or the information will be sent to you in a separate email. Otherwise, we can provide the name of suitable hotels for you to make a reservation.
Once we receive your registration, we book you with the cruise line and email you your booking number. From here, you may go onto the cruise line website to review and book your shore excursions directly with the cruise line. Wherever possible, we will arrange custom shore excursions to suit the interest of the group. When we do this, this will be indicated on the cruise web page or included in a special email.
If you are a quilter, in addition to the cruise, your cruise includes onboard quilting parties and events, workshops and sewing machines are included in the price. If a teacher has a kit or a required pattern and there is an additional fee the cost will be payable directly to the teacher. Information on kits or other materials, including price, will be listed on the website where class information is available.
To be certain of what we do include, everything that is indicated on the individual cruise itinerary pricing page and is listed as ‘included’ is covered by your quilter cruise cost.
About 90 days prior to departure, we will send out a class enrollment form by email. You will choose your classes and submit the form to us any time after this date. Classes will be filled on a first come first serve basis. Most get their first class choices, rarely does anyone not get their first or second choice.
Cruise ships offer several dining options. Except for dinner, these are very flexible. Unless a sponsor of a cruise requests that everyone dine together, we request flexible (anytime) dinner dining for everyone. This way, you may eat when and where you want, even in the dining room where you will have the same menu as those who participate in an early or late dinner service.
Cruise ships will indicate how many formal or gala nights they have on a cruise on their own registration pages. We will try to indicate the formal nights on our cruise event calendar, however they are subject to change, and frequently cruise lines do change this night sometime during the cruise. Changes such as this are out of our control. The number of formal nights differ for each cruise line and cruise itinerary. Formal or gala nights are optional, meaning if you do not wish to dress in what is referred to as cocktail or formal attire, then you may dine somewhere of your choice other than the main dining rooms. For those wishing to join the Formal Night dinner festivities, we suggest that ladies bring a pair of black pants and a dressy top or cocktail dress. For men, a jacket is minimally required.
Cruise lines will automatically charge a set amount (around $13-15 a day per person) to your shipboard account to cover tips for your room steward and dining room staff. Once the cruise begins, you are free to make an adjustment to this amount at any time by submitting a form that the ship’s front desk will supply.
Travel Protection
Frequently Asked Questions – Cruises
World of Quilts Travel offers cruises and/or tours with something for everyone. It is Deb’s goal to provide something unique, showing you a different side of travel while sharing her love of quilts, textiles, traditional crafts and culture.
Our adventures are specifically designed for those who have similar interests and provide a fantastic opportunity to make new friends and share this unique experience with like-minded travelers of all ages.
Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about our trips. If you have any questions which are not answered here or on our FAQ pages for our Tours or Cruises please don’t hesitate to email and I will be happy to get back to you as soon as I can.
When the terminology “quilt tour” is used, I suppose it does conjure up the vision of ladies and gentlemen traveling to work on quilt. However, quilts and/or textiles are the passion that often brings the group together, and there is not always an active quilting component on every group.
The purpose for the experience varies from group to group. I have groups of quilt and textile historians that travel to see historic pieces while other groups travel to shop for exotic and hard to find fabrics. Still, others travel for the fellowship with those who share their enthusiasm. It seems that when one exists, often the actual quilting project is not as important as spending time with others who have a built in connection through quilts and quilt-making.
How often they travel often depends upon their economic and family situation. I have some clients who have been on many of our trips, others who travel with me once a year, and some who look at a single tour as a way to a brief respite from the ordinary.
Outside of providing value in a quilt and textile related vacation experience, inspiration is the key essential on any trip; this is found in many ways. Quilters and textile enthusiasts are often inspired by landscapes, museum visits, quilts and textiles they see, by sharing with each other and the bonds they make with their fellow travelers. While the focus of any itinerary is inspired by quilts, a theme is often important in terms of how local quilt-making customs or historic textiles relate to the community that is being visited. One activity that most everyone looks forward to is any opportunity to shop for unusual or locally produced fabrics that will further inspire their quilt-making once they return home.
On our quilt history tours, for those who are historians, I feel it is important to include visits to historic archives and provide unusual opportunities to see antique quilts that are not often available for public viewing. An essential element for me then as a quilter as well as a quilt historian is to have a professional relationship with my colleagues within these institutions as this often opens doors to archives where we would not otherwise have access.
I believe it is helpful when the planner is knowledgeable about quilts and spends time with quilters in areas not surrounded by travel. As a quilter, show judge, appraiser and author, I spend a lot of time around quilts and quilt-makers. This helps me know their special interests and my tours are planned specifically around these things; they are not tours planned and then marketed to those who make quilts. In order for them to produce results, I have noticed a number of “quilt tour” providers that have hired a guest quilter to accompany a land tour group. Many times, this may seem like a benefit to the traveler, but, just as often, an additional cost is added to the tour in order to pay for the famous named guest who is coming along. I will not burden my travelers with those types of additional charges. If I feel that having such a guest would benefit a group or the overall tour experience, I will have one, but it is not a factor I often consider.
It is also important to have knowledge of class and workshop limitations. When planning actual quilting classes the planner should be aware of time constraints, materials and the facility suitability to the project.
I believe my most popular destinations to date have been Ireland, France and Bali, each for different reasons. The beauty of Ireland speaks for itself and we enjoy many scenic vistas along our way. Additionally, we stop at quilt shops up and down the Emerald Isle. Often, we’ve been compared to an “Irish Quilt Shop Hop”. France is known in history for its contributions to both the fabric and quilt world, and Bali for its exquisite batik fabrics and special culture.
Our most popular cruises have been the ones that go to Alaska, the European Christmas Markets or international destinations such as the Baltic or Asia.
The most popular activity by far is shopping. I try to plan tours that not only offer rewarding textile experiences but also provide a truly memorable experience. Most of my travelers choose a destination they have always wanted to visit.
As a quilter and travel enthusiast, I plan each tour as if I am planning it for myself or my family. I take every stop into consideration. It sometimes takes weeks or longer to create the perfect itinerary. To me, travel is about the total experience as well as providing a good value and I do all that I can to keep the travel experience affordable. I am not a large travel agency; all of my group travel experiences are simply about quilts and textiles.
When selecting a quilt tour or cruise provider, it is important to note there may be others who promote quilt trips that will happen to coincide with their other special-interest group tours. While it might be a fun group I believe that it might be surprise for a group of 10 quilters to find themselves sharing a motor coach with poker players (this has happened). This would be a convenient way for some to fill a coach, but I do not mind keeping my groups small. I find when everyone in a group shares the same passion, bonding is almost instant. Always ask your quilt tour provider if they are promoting the same tour or cruise to any other type of hobby or interest group.
I promote quilt related travel simply for the joy of sharing the world of quilts and textiles with others. I love to travel – and what better way is there to see things than with others who share similar interests.
Our travelers are of all ages and from all parts of the world. They share a passion for quilts and quilting, textiles, arts and crafts, and share a desire to connect with the lives and cultures in the places they visit. Many who travel with us are first time travelers, while others have done a lot of travel in the past but are looking for something unique that they can’t organize on their own and/or enjoy the company of others with the same interests. The age group of our tour participants ranges from around 35 to 85 years of age but we have had travelers from 13 up join our groups.
Yes absolutely – although we focus on quilts and textiles there is always something else for those with other interests to do or see. In general, about 20 – 25% of our groups are companions in this category. We always have husbands who come along, so if you want to bring yours, chances are he will not be the only one.
While Deb does provide a variety of visits, hands-on classes and workshops they are not mandatory. This is your vacation; you may do whatever you like. While the activities are designed for every level and many are purely for fun and interaction with the local people, if there are any activities that you don’t want to do – just let us know and we will suggest alternative activities for you or you may adventure out on your own.
Some of the tours do have periods that require active walking and a few may feature extended coach or train rides (greater than 4 hours) We have found that most people of normal fitness and mobility are able to participate fully. Those who may have difficulty walking may participate at a level comfortable to them. Please see our terms and conditions regarding health issues. Because we are not aware of any individual’s health condition, we do ask that you receive an okay from your health practitioner to participate on any of our tours.
Our groups are a mix of single travelers, couples and friends. If you are a solo traveler and wish to share with someone we will attempt to find someone else on the tour who wishes to share a room. If there is no one wanting to share the only difference in your cost is that of the single room supplement that we pay to our hotels or you may choose not to participate with a full refund of your deposit.
Yes, we provide travel protection through several suppliers. On your trip web page, a link is provided to the travel insurance coverage which will also provide you with information about the insurer. You may choose to purchase travel protection through us, or from any provider of your choice. There are many online travel insurance options available to you.
No, we provide it as an option to you, or you can purchase it from any travel insurance provider. However, because unexpected things do happen, we strongly suggest that you have coverage.
Yes, your deposit is completely refundable (less a $100 administration fee, $200 administration fee if on a Viking Cruise) if you change your travel plans and cancel up to 45 days prior to the final payment deadline. Please refer to our terms and conditions for additional tour or cruise refund rules.
Final payment is approximately 90 days prior to the beginning of any cruise or tour. You will receive an invoice by email about 30 days prior to the deadline.
You may pay with a personal check (if you reside in the US), money order, cashier or bank check (if you reside outside of the US) or, you may use PayPal or Google Pay. Please note, the quoted tour price includes a 3% discount for those paying in by check. Those who choose to pay through PayPal using a credit card will not receive this discount.
You may still sign up for the trip after the final payment deadline, providing there is still space available. We will need your payment in full at the time your register however.
You are required to have a passport valid for six months past your tour date for trips outside your country of citizenship.
Most of our tours do not require special immunizations, but some do. Your health care provider is the best judge as to what you may need for your trip. To guide you as to possible immunizations suggested for your itinerary, please refer to http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.
I am hoping that some of these answers to frequently asked questions about our cruises and cruise events will help you learn more about our programs, if not, please feel free to ask your questions by emailing me at info@worldofquiltstravel.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
We suggest that you register as soon as you know you want to join us. Many of our cruises categories (sometimes including the entire ship) sell out quickly and we have disappointed would be travelers.
We only use cruise lines that have universally high ratings and are also “quilter” friendly, in that they allow us to hold classes and related events without much restriction. Generally, we use the following cruise lines: Princess, Holland America and on river cruises we utilize the services of Viking
Yes, whenever they are required for a project, we provide them. We use a variety of dealers, Bernina, Janome, Brother, etc. Not familiar with the machines? No worries as we also provide technical support for the machines during the entire time that machines are in use. You will never even have to thread a needle or wind a bobbin on one of our quilting cruises, our support technicians are always there to assist you in any way so that you have an enjoyable experience.
Yes, we provide ample open sewing time each evening and at other times when class is not in session. During this time you may work on anything you wish, including Make-it/Take-it projects or demos when they are offered.
We offer inside, ocean view (window) and balcony cabins. If there are suites available to us, we will offer these as well. We will book you in the best available cabin in the category you choose – guaranteed. If you would like to request a certain cabin you may, however, it may not be in our block or it may outside of our pricing category. If this is the case we will do what we can to get you the cabin of your choice for the additional cost of the cabin. However, the reason we like to ‘guarantee’ you the best cabin in a category rather than make a choice on a particular cabin as this gives you a better chance of receiving a complimentary upgrade. If you would like us to try to book a particular cabin for you, please indicate this on the registration form.
As our cruises leave from departure ports from all over the world and our guests also come from many areas, it is impossible for us to arrange a group flight for cruises. However, this also allows you to fly when you want and from where you want at the best price you can find. It is also a way to use your airline miles or points. We will notify you as soon as we know that our cruise is a ‘go’ so that you may look for the best airfare that suits you. If you would like us to book your air for you, upon request, we are happy to do this, just let us know. We will also arrange transfers between the airport and the ship when you select the appropriate box on the registration form. If you do not wish to make your own air arrangements, we are happy to assist you.
Cruise lines generally runs buses the day of the cruise for a fee which will be a choice for you on your registration form. If you are coming in the day before, you will need to find your own transportation to the hotel and cruise terminal. Many hotels offer free transportation from the airports.
We ask that you plan to arrive no later than 12 noon on the day of your cruise departure, the earlier the better. Please take into account that there may be flight delays and book your flight so that you have an alternative should this occur.
On the day of embarkation, cruise lines suggest not booking flights that depart before 12 noon.
Frequently we will include a pre-cruise hotel option and this will be indicated on the cruise information page or the information will be sent to you in a separate email. Otherwise, we can provide the name of suitable hotels for you to make a reservation.
Once we receive your registration, we book you with the cruise line and email you your booking number. From here, you may go onto the cruise line website to review and book your shore excursions directly with the cruise line. Wherever possible, we will arrange custom shore excursions to suit the interest of the group. When we do this, this will be indicated on the cruise web page or included in a special email.
If you are a quilter, in addition to the cruise, your cruise includes onboard quilting parties and events, workshops and sewing machines are included in the price. If a teacher has a kit or a required pattern and there is an additional fee the cost will be payable directly to the teacher. Information on kits or other materials, including price, will be listed on the website where class information is available.
To be certain of what we do include, everything that is indicated on the individual cruise itinerary pricing page and is listed as ‘included’ is covered by your quilter cruise cost.
About 90 days prior to departure, we will send out a class enrollment form by email. You will choose your classes and submit the form to us any time after this date. Classes will be filled on a first come first serve basis. Most get their first class choices, rarely does anyone not get their first or second choice.
Cruise ships offer several dining options. Except for dinner, these are very flexible. Unless a sponsor of a cruise requests that everyone dine together, we request flexible (anytime) dinner dining for everyone. This way, you may eat when and where you want, even in the dining room where you will have the same menu as those who participate in an early or late dinner service.
Cruise ships will indicate how many formal or gala nights they have on a cruise on their own registration pages. We will try to indicate the formal nights on our cruise event calendar, however they are subject to change, and frequently cruise lines do change this night sometime during the cruise. Changes such as this are out of our control. The number of formal nights differ for each cruise line and cruise itinerary. Formal or gala nights are optional, meaning if you do not wish to dress in what is referred to as cocktail or formal attire, then you may dine somewhere of your choice other than the main dining rooms. For those wishing to join the Formal Night dinner festivities, we suggest that ladies bring a pair of black pants and a dressy top or cocktail dress. For men, a jacket is minimally required.
Cruise lines will automatically charge a set amount (around $13-15 a day per person) to your shipboard account to cover tips for your room steward and dining room staff. Once the cruise begins, you are free to make an adjustment to this amount at any time by submitting a form that the ship’s front desk will supply.