Frequently Asked Questions

Here are our Frequently Asked Questions post-booking:

Post-Booking

When will I receive my referral code?

Your referral code will be generated once all guests on your reservation have joined and paid their required deposits. Teamwork makes the dream work—and unlocks the referral code! Once everyone has completed these steps, check your confirmation email. If your code is still playing hide-and-seek, please email us at support@nursecon.com, and our team will be happy to help.

When can I book shore excursions?

Excursions will be available for booking once you receive your Holland America booking number closer to our sailing date. Don’t worry – we will let you know when this is happening! You will be able to view and book available excursions directly through the Holland America Navigator App.

Why isn't the NurseCon at Sea App working?

The NurseCon at Sea App is not available for your sailing just yet. The app is currently available for download so you can have it ready before boarding, but reservation access and event features will become available closer to embarkation.

How do I update a guest's information after booking?

If you need to modify or update any guest information after completing your reservation, please email support@nursecon.com with the requested changes, and our team will assist you.

When will my merch bundle ship?

Merch bundles ordered during booking will start shipping at the end of July 2027. Free shipping applies only to residents of the U.S. and Canada. If you are joining us from outside the US or Canada, we will make sure your bundle is available for pickup onboard. Keep an eye out—we can't wait for you to receive them!

When will my onboard spending credit be available?

Your onboard spending credit will be ready as soon as you're onboard! Enjoy it for drink packages, spa services, specialty dining, excursions, shopping, and more!

How do I get added to the waitlist?

Guests who are interested in either booking a stateroom or upgrading their current stateroom may join our paid Priority Waitlist once it becomes available online. All waitlist bookings must be made online via the link. The waitlist will be posted on our website when it goes live. Keep checking the website regularly. The launch of the waitlist will not be announced via email or social media. Waitlist spots are secured with a $99 refundable deposit per reservation.

How does my roommate log in and make their payment?

Each guest on a reservation has access to their own account in our booking portal. 

To make a payment, your roommate should: 

  1. Click on the link to join the reservation in their confirmation email.  
  2. On the landing page, choose one: 
  • If they have signed in before and know their username and password, click Sign In 
  • If they have never signed into the booking portal before, click Register. 
  • If they have signed in before but have forgotten their username or password, click Reset Password, and use the email received to reset their password and login to the booking portal. 
  1. Locate their reservation. 
  2. Select Make a Payment. 
  3. Follow the prompts to submit payment toward their balance. 

 

If they are having trouble accessing their account, our Guest Relations Team is happy to help. They can email support@nursecon.com.  

How do I get on the waitlist to upgrade my room?

Guests interested in upgrading their current stateroom may join the paid Priority Waitlist once it becomes available on our website. The waitlist requires a $99 refundable deposit per reservation and allows guests to be considered if inventory becomes available before sailing; consideration is given based on the order the waitlist booking was received. 

Can I still receive the Pay-in-Full Discount if I pay by a certain date? 

Unfortunately, no. The Pay-in-Full Discount was only available at the time of booking when the entire stateroom was paid in full during the online booking process.  \If you did not select that option when your reservation was originally booked, the Pay-in-Full Discount can no longer be applied later. 

PRICING AND REGISTRATION

When does registration open?

The countdown is on! Registration for our March 4-11, 2028 Mediterranean sailing launches September 2nd at Noon ET.

What do I need to register?

Only one person per stateroom needs to register and secure the room. Before you start, have the full name and email address of everyone staying in your stateroom ready.

During registration, you’ll choose your stateroom, select the number of guests, add any extras you want, and choose your payment option.

If you choose to split the reservation cost among guests, each guest will receive an email inviting them to join the reservation and pay their deposit.

Can I transfer my reservation to the second Mediterranean sailing? 

In order to apply our booking and cancellation policies fairly and consistently for all guests, reservations cannot be moved between the two sailings. Each sailing is treated as a separate event, and deposits are nonrefundable and remain attached to the original reservation. If you would prefer to join the March 4 sailing instead of the February 26th sailing, you have two options: 

  1. Cancel your February 26 reservation, forfeit the nonrefundable deposit, and create a new reservation for the March 4 sailing. 
  2. Find an eligible guest who would like to assume your February 26 reservation and complete an official reservation transfer through our Guest Relations team in accordance with our transfer policies. 

How does registration work when booking more than 1 person in a room?

When booking your reservation, you will need to select the total number of guests who will be staying in your stateroom. Only one person needs to register for the entire group in one room, but you will need the names, birthdays, and email addresses of the other guests in the party. The stateroom you select must accommodate everyone in your party. If you choose to split payments with your roommates through NurseCon, the person registering will pay just their own deposit. The roommates will receive an email to register and pay their deposits, and the required deposit must be paid for all guests at the time of booking. Alternatively, if the person registering chooses not to split payments, the entire deposit will be due during the online booking.  

Can I book for one or two people now and add the rest of my guests later?

Book your reservation for the full number of guests in one room. For example, if four guests are sailing in one room, select four guests on the initial reservation screen, choose a stateroom that accommodates all four, and pay the required deposit for each guest. Please don’t book for fewer guests with plans to add your cruise crew later. Stateroom capacity and availability are limited, and we may not be able to squeeze in a last-minute plus-one—no matter how fabulous they are! 

How is pricing structured?

Pricing is per person based on double occupancy (unless noted as a single room which are limited in availability. So, bring a friend, spouse, partner, sib, mom or dad, adult kid, neighbor, or any ole person who will help you make great memories! Only one of you needs to be a healthcare worker.

What is included in the price?

A lot! Your NurseCon at Sea price includes your stateroom, full conference fee, most shipboard and NurseCon entertainment and activities, standard dining, 24/7 room service, Wi-Fi, taxes, cruise fees, and gratuities.

What’s not included? Optional extras like specialty dining, shore excursions, drinks and drink packages, spa and salon services, and other personal purchases.

Basically, we cover the big stuff, and you choose the extras!

Can I include drink packages and merch bundles in my payment plan?

Yes! Just make your selection when making your room reservation online. Or if you decide to add one later, you can do that online, too. You do not have to add your drink package and merch bundlesduring registration.

Can I add merchandise or beverage packages after I book?

Yes! You certainly don’t have to purchase merchandise or beverage packages during your initial checkout. You can log back into your NurseCon reservation later and add any available packages, because sometimes you need a minute to consider your beverage prognosis. Please note that if purchasing an alcoholic beverage package, all guests in the stateroom who are 21 or older must purchase the applicable package. Need help logging in or adding a package? Email us atsupport@nursecon.com, and our team will be happy to assist.

Destination Information

What’s the itinerary?

# DATE DAY DESTINATION ARRIVE DEPART
0 03/04 SAT PIRAEUS (ATHENS), GREECE 17:00
1 03/05 Sun At Sea
2 03/06 Mon Dubrovnik, Croatia 8:00 23:00
3 03/07 Tue Kotor, Montenegro 8:00 17:00
4 03/08 Wed At Sea
5 03/09 Thu Thíra, Nisos Thíra (Santorini), Greece 8:00 17:00
6 03/10 Fri Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey 8:00 17:00
7 03/11 SAT PIRAEUS (ATHENS), GREECE 7:00

Where are we departing from and returning to?

Athens (embarkating on 3/4/28 & disembarkation on 3/11/28):

Piraeus International Passenger, Terminal A, B or C
Akti Miaouli 10
Pireaus 185 38, Greece

Ship And Stateroom Information

What ship are we sailing on?

We’ll be cruising with Holland America Line - Cruise Critic’s Best Service Award winner 5 years in a row – onboard the beautiful Nieuw Statendam!

Are there rooms for more than 2 people?

Absolutely! Some rooms can fit three, four, or even five guests! These rooms are limited - and pricing depends on the room type - so check availability when booking.

Are ADA-accessible staterooms available?

Yes! A limited number of ADA-accessible staterooms are available onboard. If you need assistance securing an ADA room or have questions about accessibility, contact Customer Support at (850) 318-8830.

Learn more about accessibility with Holland America Line here: Holland America Accessibility Information

Are the pools heated?

Yes – cozy. Both the outdoor Sea View pool and Lido Pool (midship with retractable roof) are heated to a comfortable pool temperature. There are also several hot tubs in both locations.

Conference And Cne Information

How many CNEs will be available onboard?

Get ready to level up! We’re offering 30+ CNE credits at NurseCon at Sea 2028 – The Bucket List Collection.

What if I can’t attend every CNE session I want?

We got you! Select sessions will be recorded and available to watch from your stateroom so you can keep learning while lounging in bed.

Is NurseCon accredited?

You bet! NurseCon LLC is officially accredited by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.

How will I receive my CNE credits?

After the conference, you'll receive an email with a CNE evaluation. Simply complete the evaluation, self-report the courses and workshops you attended, and you'll receive a certificate showing your earned contact hours!

Do you provide resources to help with employer reimbursement?

Absolutely! We created a Reimbursement Toolkit to help you request financial support from your hospital or employer to attend NurseCon at Sea. It includes helpful documentation and guidance you can use when submitting your request. Reimbursement varies by employer, so be sure to check your workplace’s continuing education and professional development policies.

Payment Information

Does NurseCon offer monthly payment plans?

Sure do! Deposits start as low as $99 per person. The remaining balance is split into equal monthly payments. Payments are automatically charged on the 28th of each month. Final payment is due January 28, 2028.

What are my payment options?

We love flexibility! 

  1. Monthly payment plans available. Reserve your spot for as low as $99 down!  Pay the rest in equal monthly payments via auto-charge on the 28th of each month until January 28, 2028. 
  2. Pay-in-full option – Pay in full at the time of booking, and save up to $400 on your reservation.

What happens if my payment is late?

Missed a payment? Contact us ASAP! Late fees = $50 per late payment. If you’re 45+ days past due, your reservation may be canceled without a refund. If your final balance isn’t paid one week after the due date, your booking will be automatically canceled.

How can I update my credit card info?

It’s easy!

  1. Log in at www.nurseconatsea.com
  2. Click the Credit Cards tab to update your details
  3. Need help? Call (850) 318-8830

What’s the refund policy?

All payments are non-refundable. You can transfer your reservation (fees apply). If NurseCon at Sea or the cruise line postpones or cancels the sailing for any reason, you’ll receive credit toward a future NurseCon at Sea event, valid for 3 years.

Cancellations And Transfers

What if I need to cancel or transfer my reservation?

Cancellation, deposit and refund rules follow the main sailing policy. Reservations are non-refundable and we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance.. Transfers to another guest are generally allowed for a transfer fee. Contact support for current transfer terms and the steps to complete a transfer.

What is the Cruise with Confidence Program?

If NurseCon at Sea or the cruise line postpones or cancels your sailing, you’ll get a NurseCon at Sea Future Cruise Credit valid for 3 years.

SAFETY

Are the ports on this itinerary safe for travelers?

Athens, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Santorini, and Kusadasi are among the Mediterranean's most visited cruise destinations and welcome millions of travelers annually. As with any major tourist destination, guests should remain aware of their surroundings and take normal travel precautions.

What safety precautions should I take in port?

We recommend:

  • Keeping valuables secure and out of sight
  • Using a zippered crossbody bag or money belt
  • Staying aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
  • Carrying a copy of your passport rather than the original when appropriate
  • Returning to the ship well before the all-aboard time
  • Following local laws and customs

Can I drink tap water in these destinations?

Tap water quality varies by destination. Bottled water is widely available and is often preferred by travelers.

International Travel Specifics

Do U.S. citizens need a passport?

Yes. This is not the time to discover that your driver's license has dreams of being a passport. Bring your valid passport and keep it safe. All U.S. and Canadian citizens must travel with a valid passport and should ensure it remains valid for at least six months after travel.

Will I need a visa?

Visa and entry requirements can change before 2028. Guests are responsible for reviewing the latest requirements applicable to their citizenship prior to travel. NurseCon at Sea and Holland America Line cannot provide legal immigration advice.

What is ETIAS, and will I need it?

It sounds complicated, but it’s easy! The European Union plans to require many travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S. and Canada, to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before visiting participating European countries; it is currently planned to be implemented prior to 2028. Requirements may evolve before 2028, so travelers should verify current rules before departure.

Will my cell phone work in Europe?

Get connected! Most major U.S. and Canadian carriers offer international service plans. Contact your provider before travel to understand costs and available options.

Should I bring local currency?

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the itinerary, but having a small amount of local currency can be helpful for small purchases, cafés, tips, and markets.

Will my credit card work internationally?

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Notify your bank of your travel plans before departure and check for international transaction fees.

Is tipping customary in the ports we are visiting?

Yes, although tipping customs aregenerally morerelaxed than in the U.S. In Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, and Turkey, rounding up the bill is common for cafés, bars, and taxis. At sit-down restaurants, leaving approximately 10% for good service is customary and appreciated, especially in popular tourist areas. Always check your bill first, as a service charge may already be included—and there is no need to follow the American 20% standard.

Health & Medical Questions

Should I purchase travel insurance?

YES! We highly recommend it. Travel insurance protects you from trip delays, medical expenses, lost luggage, and other "oops" moments. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, interruption, medical coverage, and emergency evacuation benefits. You can add it at checkout through Travel Insured International.

Note: Most health insurance plans do not cover you internationally or on a cruise, so check your plan before assuming you are covered.

Are healthcare facilities available in the ports we visit?

Yes. Healthcare facilities and emergency medical services are available throughout the destinations on our itinerary, and Nieuw Statendam also has a medical center onboard. Guests are responsible for medical expenses and should confirm international coverage with their health and travel insurance providers before sailing.

Can I bring prescription medications?

Yes. Bring medications in their original labeled containers and carry them in your hand luggage. We also recommend bringing enough medication for the entire trip plus a few extra days in case of travel delays.

Packing Questions

What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise in early March?

Think layers! Mediterranean weather this time of year can vary by destination and from day to night. Pack comfortable layers, a light-to-medium jacket, a rain layer or small umbrella, comfortable walking shoes, and a few warmer options for cooler evenings. And yes, bring the sunglasses and sunscreen! Even in the cooler months, you’ll be spending plenty of time outdoors.

What should I wear when visiting churches or religious sites?

Some churches and religious sites may require modest attire. We recommend bringing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, or carrying a light scarf or layer you can easily throw on when needed. Specific dress requirements may vary by site and excursion, so check the details before heading out for the day.

Do I need an electrical adapter?

That depends! You do not need one on the ship (unless you plan to use a plug-in shaver), but if you are planning on a pre- and/or post-cruise stay, it’s best to pack one.

Greece, Croatia, Turkey, and Montenegro use European-style outlets (Type C and Type F). Most modern phones, tablets, and laptops support 100–240V, but check each device before plugging it in. If your device supports only 110–120V, you will also need a voltage converter.

What should I bring on shore excursions?

Keep it light! We recommend a small day bag with comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, a portable charger, any medications you may need, and a light jacket or rain layer.

You’ll also want your phone or camera because... Mediterranean.

Miscellaneous Information

When will my merch bundle ship?

Merch bundles ordered during booking will start shipping at the end of July 2027.  Free shipping applies only to residents of the U.S. and Canada. If you are joining us from outside the US or Canada, we will make sure your bundle is available for pickup onboard. Keep an eye out—we can't wait for you to receive them!

When will my onboard spending credit be available?

Your onboard spending credit will be ready as soon as you're onboard! Enjoy it for drink packages, spa services, specialty dining, excursions, shopping, and more!

Still have some questions on your mind?

Our NurseCon at Sea team is happy to help you prepare for this extraordinary Mediterranean adventure. We can't wait to sail with you in March 2028!

Email support@nursecon.com or call 850-318-8830 for help from one of our guest relations team members.