WHY IS THE CRUISE CALLED "THE DIGNITY CRUISE?"

Dr. Peggy Rudd, author of CROSSDRESSING WITH DIGNITY, believes crossdressers deserve dignity and respect. She believes the opportunity to move freely in an elegant setting is an integral part of feeling complete and fulfilled. Dignity Cruises, in association with Absolute Best Cruises, offer members of our community the opportunity to experience the finer things in life while dressed as a beautiful woman or as a man. The cruises offer wives, partners, family members and friends an opportunity to interface with others who have shared some of their own life experiences.

HOW ARE CROSSDRESSERS TREATED BY THE SHIP'S CREW?

Before booking a Dignity Cruise, the cruise line is informed of the nature of the group through conversations and literature. We have talked by phone to the Public Relations Department of the Cruise Line. Because they have been informed correctly the staff treats us with respect and dignity.

HOW ARE CROSSDRESSERS TREATED BY THE PASSENGERS ON BOARD?

It is fascinating to observe the reaction of the other passengers. At first they seem to ignore our presence. Most people on board are focused upon the beauty of the ship, the activities, and the joy of cruising. Before long, however, we observe some polite curiosity. As the cruise moves forward, the acceptance grows. We can't predict the response of the total ship, and on some occasions we have heard a few rude remarks, but for the most part, we are treated with respect.

HOW SHOULD I DRESS?

Dignity Cruises are about personal fulfillment. For this reason, whether or not you dress en femme and how often you dress in femme, is your choice. Some people are more comfortable in men's clothing while in port, but this is not the preference for all of our group. The best rule is "keep it simple." Dress in comfortable casual clothing except for special parties.

We will have one or two parties on board for our group hosted by Melanie and Peggy, so you may want something dressy for those occasions. This will be your personal choice. Other events are more casual. Be sure to bring some comfortable shoes. High heels are pretty, but your feet may need a rest from them from time to time.

MAY I BOARD EN FEMME?

If you plan to board en femme we advise you to have identification for the female and male persona. A letter explaining your life as a crossdresser is sometimes helpful. Since this cruise involves some international ports of call, you will need to bring proof of birth in the form of a birth certificate with a raised seal and a picture ID, or a passport.

WHAT ABOUT THE BATHROOMS?

The safest bathroom is the one in your cabin, and there may be unisex bathrooms available on the ship. Out of courtesy for the female passengers who are not familiar with crossdressing, the public women's bathroom is not an option unless your driver's license or passport notes your sex as "female".

WILL THERE BE PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES FOR OUR GROUP?

A program of activities will be included with your "Welcome Package." In addition the ship has a full schedule of activities. It is impossible to do everything offered.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE AND HOW DOES THIS PRICE COMPARE WITH OTHER CONVENTIONS?

The price of the Dignity Cruise Convention includes all meals, entertainment on board the ship and your cabin. Gratuities and alcoholic drinks are not included except during our private cocktail parties. In the case of the Land Lovers' Conventions the registration fee does not include the hotel room, nor does it include all of the food. When you take everything into consideration you can see that the prices are comparable.

AIR ARRANGEMENTS, PRE OR POST HOTEL ARRANGEMENTS AND TRAVEL INTERRUPTION INSURANCE. We can make arrangements with the cruise line for round trip air fares at a very competitive rates from your home city to the airport closest to the pier. Transportation from the airport to and from the ship is included in the price. For sailings from Miami or any other port more than 3 hours by air from your home city, it is recommended that the pre-cruise hotel package be arranged through Dignity Cruises. You can complete the check in at the hotel on the morning of the cruise with transportation provided to the pier. This will save you from having to stand in line for check in at the pier. Clearing security is required for all cruisers.

WILL I GET MOTION SICK?

The ship is a large vessel with strong stabilizers. The chances of getting motion sick are small. However, we always take precautions. The best pill is Bonine. Patches are available from your physician, and wrist bands are available at your pharmacy or our travel agent. In the worst case scenario, the physician in the ship's clinic will give you a shot.

WHAT IF I DON'T LIKE TO BE CONFINED TO A SMALL SHIP?

Never fear! The ship is as large as a resort. On board you feel like you are in a Hyatt.

ONCE I HAVE SAILED ON A DIGNITY CRUISE WILL I WANT TO RETURN?

Most of our Dignity Cruisers have sailed with us before. Once you sail on a Dignity Cruise you are "hooked."

HAPPY CRUISING!

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