Travel Essentials
TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
All Canadian citizens travelling by air to the United States must have a valid passport with 1 blank page. It is recommended your passport is valid for 6 months after the scheduled return date, however not mandatory. These requirements apply to all Canadian citizens, including children. For your convenience in preparing all necessary documents before your journey, we've provided the following helpful links: Canadian Passports If you are not a Canadian or an American citizen, it is important to reconfirm the entry requirements to ensure you have the proper documentation. Important notice International Customs and Immigration have significantly tightened their entrance criteria. Individuals with either major or minor criminal offenses should verify with Immigration, as you might face denial of entry during the airport check-in process.
CUSTOMS
On departure you will clear US customs at your last point of departure from Canada. You will undergo customs clearance at your first point of entry to Canada. You must declare all items acquired during your absence, whether purchased for personal use or received as gifts, including goods bought from duty-free stores. It's advisable to retain your original receipts in case of inspection. If you have been outside Canada for 48 hours or longer, you are allowed to bring back goods valued up to $800.00 CDN without incurring any duty or taxes. These goods may include alcoholic beverages and tobacco products. For further information please refer to the Government of Canada Travel.
TRAVEL CURRENCY
In the Caribbean, currencies vary by island; however, the United States Dollar (USD) is widely accepted in most tourist areas. Accessing funds is straightforward with the use of credit cards or ATMs (automated teller machines), although it’s advisable to exchange some currency before your trip to have cash available. Please note that some small shops and fast-food establishments in the Caribbean may not accept bills larger than $20. Please be advised that the following are approximate exchange rates and may fluctuate: United States Dollar (USD) 1.00 CAD ≈ 0.74 USD 1.36 USD ≈ 1.00 CAD For the most up-to-date exchange rates, please refer to XE.
TIME ZONES
If it is 11:00pm in Miami in January/February it is: • 8:00 am in Vancouver • 9:00 am in Calgary / Edmonton • 10:00 am in Saskatoon / Winnipeg • 11:00 am in Toronto / Ottawa • 12:00 pm in Halifax • 12:30 pm in St. John’s
COMMUNICATIONS & STAYING IN TOUCH
Many Canadian cellphone carriers offer service in the Caribbean; however, coverage and fees vary by destination. Check with your provider before travel, as roaming charges and limitations may apply. Please note that service may be limited in remote areas or while at sea during your cruise.
WHAT TO PACK
Clothing: Onboard Oceania Marina and throughout the Caribbean, attire is generally resort casual by day and elegant casual by evening. Lightweight clothing, breathable fabrics, and comfortable footwear are ideal for warm, tropical weather. For dinner, collared shirts, dresses, or smart casual wear are recommended, while formal jackets are typically optional. A light sweater or wrap may be useful in air-conditioned areas onboard. Sun Protection: The Caribbean sun is strong year-round, even on cloudy days. Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect marine life, and bring a hat and sunglasses for added protection during shore excursions and time on deck. Outdoor Wear: For exploring ports such as Oranjestad, Willemstad, Kralendijk, St. George’s, Castries, Gustavia, and Tortola, pack comfortable walking shoes or sandals. A light jacket or rain layer is recommended for occasional showers or breezy evenings. Additional Items to Pack Medication / Eyewear: Carry all medications and eyeglasses or contacts in your carry-on. Keep medications in original labeled containers and consider bringing a copy of your prescription.
WEATHER
Cruising the Caribbean aboard Oceania Marina in January and February offers some of the most pleasant weather of the year. Expect warm, sunny days with temperatures typically ranging from 24°C to 29°C and lower humidity, making it ideal for both onboard relaxation and shore excursions. These months fall within the Caribbean’s dry season, meaning plenty of sunshine and only occasional brief showers. Evenings can feel slightly cooler, especially on deck, so a light sweater or wrap is recommended. While at sea, you may also experience breezy conditions or light winds, and ocean waters can feel a bit cooler compared to later in the season.
INSURANCE
Cancellation, Travel and Emergency Medical Insurance outside the country is not part of the trip package. Please ensure you have out of country medical insurance. Please review your company's group insurance medical coverage to confirm that both you and your travel companion are sufficiently covered for the entirety of your trip or plan to purchase additional insurance.
LOCAL LANGUAGES
Official languages: 🇦🇼 Oranjestad — Dutch 🇨🇼 Willemstad — Dutch 🇧🇶 Kralendijk — Dutch 🇬🇩 St. George’s — English 🇱🇨 Castries — English 🇧🇱 Gustavia — French 🇻🇬 Tortola — English Most people in tourist areas speak and understand English. Translation apps like Google Translate is very helpful and good to have downloaded on your phone.