How many participants do we need to constitute a “group?”

The answer varies with the cruise lines.  In general it is a minimum of 10 staterooms, although it could be fewer with some lines.  The more participants you have, the more amenities you will earn.  

Of course it is never too soon to begin planning, however some cruise lines do not finalize their itineraries and fleet plans until 24-18 months prior.  The sooner we are able to begin negotiation with a cruise line, the greater the opportunity we have to secure the most favorable rates and to include complimentary amenities in the negotiation process.  
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Most physicians have cruised before and understand that it is in their best interest to secure their staterooms well in advance.  Deposits they pay toward their cruise are fully refundable up to a few months prior to their cruise.  As this type of CME is often planned as an opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family, booking their cruise early gives their companions time to adjust their schedules as well.  Additionally, it may be possible to include an “Early Booking Incentive” in your marketing if booked by a certain designated date.  

Fundamental to the success of a CME at sea program is choosing the most appropriate cruise line, ship, itinerary and date for you and your participants.    Nichols Cruise will help you explore the vast options offered by a variety of cruise lines from an experienced, objective perspective.   

Nichols Cruise is here as YOUR advocate, watching our for your best interests.   We represent you and your needs.    We know what needs to get done and how to get it done, and we know of value-added features to ask for; ones a cruise line may not offer if not asked.    We are there to negotiate the most optimal agreement with the cruise line, one that works to your greatest benefit.  

Keep in mind also that when working with a cruise line you are working with their shoreside personnel, not working with the people that will be sailing with you.    Nichols Cruise on the other hand not only guides you through the process of program scheduling, dining arrangements, receptions and breaks.    We sail with you to ensure the decisions you made and the program you organized actually gets implemented.  

Additionally, we are familiar with the strict requirements to meet accreditation standards.    We are versed in the ACCME guidelines, and have an appreciation for your own CME regulations, restrictions and opportunities.    We are there to take the pressure off your office and to support you in these efforts.  

Even outside of tax considerations, no matter what ship is chosen, guests will be pleased to find that cruises present a tremendous value.  
(See Cost Comparison for Participant.  ) 

Additionally, there are now US-flagged luxury cruise ships!  Besides affording unique tax advantages, these recently introduced vessels feature state-of-the-art meeting facilities, all US crew, and can sail in US waters without the requirements of going foreign.

Cruise lines realize that many passengers feel the need to stay connected while onboard.    Guests can make calls directly from their staterooms, and worldwide telex, radiogram or fax services are available from the ship.    All ships have Internet cafes, and now many also have wi-fi capabilities allowing guests to access the Internet throughout the ship from the convenience of their personal computers.    On many ships, there is now even the possibility of using your own cell phone while at sea, allowing guests to make and receive both voice calls and text messages.  
(Fees are associated with all optional communications services.  )

Certainly the motion a ship may encounter is very much related to the ship, the season and the itinerary.  Modern stabilizers have made a tremendous difference in maintaining a ship’s steadiness.  Should motion discomfort be a concern, many cruise passengers have found great comfort when using Sea Bands, elasticized wrist bands with strategically placed acupressure-style buttons.  Additionally, there have been great advances in both over-the-counter and prescribed medications.  

Is golf available on a cruise?

Absolutely!   Not only is there mini-golf, putting ranges, golf simulators and driving tents on cruise ships, but most ships are able to help guests set up tee times in the various ports at fabulous courses throughout the world.    Clubs can often be provided as well.  

Let us know what other questions may have.  We’re always happy to add to the above list!