FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Explore our Celiac Cruise FAQs to find answers to common questions about gluten-free cruises, onboard dining, safety protocols, itineraries, and what to expect when traveling with Celiac Cruise.
If you still have questions, please reach out through our Contact Us page.
What is Celiac Cruise?
Celiac Cruise is a gluten-free travel experience designed for individuals with celiac disease, EOE (Eosinophilic Esophagitis), gluten intolerance, gluten allergies, and other gluten-related conditions. With dedicated gluten-free kitchens and 100% gluten-free menus on every sailing, we set the highest standard of gluten-free safety so all travelers can relax and enjoy their vacation with confidence. We offer curated dining, exclusive onboard events, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Who can attend a Celiac Cruise?
Anyone can join! We welcome gluten-free travelers along with their family and friends. Whether you have a diagnosis or simply living gluten-free, you are welcome to join.
What cruise lines do you partner with?
We work with Royal Caribbean for larger ocean cruises, AmaWaterways for full-ship chartered river cruise, and Oceania Cruises for small-ship, luxury, experiences.
Is this an exclusively gluten-free charter?
It depends on the cruise. On our river cruises, we charter the entire ship, making the full environment 100% gluten-free. On our ocean cruises, Celiac Cruise operates as a partial charter in which large portions of the ship are made dedicated gluten-free for our sailing. Our guests enjoy exclusive access to our dedicated gluten-free dining venues, special private events, and more.
How do I book a Celiac Cruise?
Simply complete the registration form at www.celiaccruise.com. Our team will follow up to finalize your reservation.
Can I book through my own travel advisor?
It depends on the cruise. On our full-ship AmaWaterways charters and with our Oceania cruises, we welcome collaborations with travel advisors. Currently, our contractual obligations with Royal Caribbean require guests be booked directly with us online at www.celiaccruise.com so guests receive full access to our program.
Do all guests in my party have to be gluten-free?
Not at all. Many of our guests travel with family or friends who do not follow a gluten-free diet. Everyone booked with us will have a seat in our private gluten-free exclusive dining room. Non gluten-free guests are welcome to eat what they want outside our dedicated gluten free spaces. Everyone is welcome!
Is the entire cruise ship gluten-free?
On river cruises, the entire ship is 100% gluten-free. On ocean cruises, Celiac Cruise guests enjoy a variety of private gluten-free restaurants (varies by ship) with dedicated gluten-free galleys (kitchens) and trained culinary teams.
How is cross-contact prevented?
All meals are prepared in a dedicated gluten-free galley, completely separate from the ship’s main kitchens. Staff are trained in celiac-safe food preparation and follow strict allergen protocols.
Will menus be labeled gluten-free?
No. All menu items in the Celiac Cruise dining program are 100% gluten-free, so labeling is not necessary.
Can I speak directly with the chef or kitchen staff?
Yes. Every sailing includes access to a private dining liaison or maître d’, and many guests will have the opportunity to meet with the culinary team during the voyage.
Are there gluten-free desserts and snacks onboard?
Yes! Each cruise features a variety of gluten-free baked goods, snacks, and desserts—all made in a dedicated gluten-free kitchen.
Can I bring my own gluten-free snacks onboard?
Yes, sealed packaged snacks are allowed and are encouraged for excursions and travel days.
Are additional dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes! We have had many guests sail successfully with us in the past with additional dietary restrictions. You are encouraged to share your additional dietary restrictions with the onboard culinary team. You may be asked to pre-order to enhance your culinary experience.
Where do Celiac Cruises go?
Destinations include the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. New itineraries are added regularly and posted on www.celiaccruise.com.
Are shore excursions gluten-free?
On ocean cruises, excursions have an additional charge and are operated by the cruise line, so they are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. We provide tips on safer options and recommend for ports of call (if available) and also recommend bringing your own pre-packaged items. On AmaWaterways river cruises, excursions are included. If an excursion overlaps with mealtime, we provide gluten-free to-go lunches for Celiac Cruise guests.
What’s included in my fare?
On ocean cruises, your fare includes your cabin, all meals within the Celiac Cruise program, and access to exclusive onboard events. Airfare, excursions, gratuities, and travel insurance are not included. On AmaWaterways river cruises, your fare includes your cabin, all meals and beverages (including wine and beer with lunch and dinner), guided excursions, gratuities, and may also include airport transfers, depending on itinerary.
What’s your cancellation policy?
All deposits and payments are non-refundable. Policy details may vary slightly by cruise line and will be outlined during the booking process.
Do I have to book through Celiac Cruise to participate?
Yes. Only bookings made through www.celiaccruise.com will be included in the Celiac Cruise program.
Can I make payments over time?
Yes. Flexible payment plans are available. Final payment deadlines vary by sailing.
Is travel insurance recommended?
Yes, strongly. We recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect against illness, delays, or cancellation.
Can I rebook for a future Celiac Cruise while onboard?
Celiac Cruises must be booked directly at www.celiaccruise.com. Cruise line onboard rebooking programs do not apply to our sailings.
Can I request a mini-fridge or microwave?
Most cabins have a mini-fridge. Medically required refrigerators must be requested in advance. Microwaves are not available anywhere on the ship, including in staterooms or public areas.
Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
On our Royal Caribbean sailings, Wi-Fi is available for purchase through the cruise line. On our Oceania and AmaWaterways cruises, Wi-Fi is included for all guests.
What if I have a medical emergency onboard?
On ocean cruises, onboard medical centers are staffed by licensed professionals. Guests should bring any medications and a letter from their physician outlining their medical needs. On river cruises, while there is no medical facility onboard, ships are always near shore, allowing for quick access to local medical services.
Is the ship equipped to handle anaphylaxis or food emergencies?
On ocean cruises, ships have trained medical personnel and emergency protocols. However, guests must carry their own epinephrine auto-injector and emergency medications. On river cruises, although no medical team is onboard, emergency care is readily available due to the ship’s close proximity to shore at all times.
Who do I contact if I have questions about my booking?
Visit www.celiaccruise.com or email: celiaccruise@totaltravelevents.com.
