Thursday, November 6, 2014

Wet 'n Wild Frequently Asked Questions

Does Wet 'n Wild supply life jackets?
Yes, coast guard approved life jackets can be obtained from the Rentals building at no charge or are available on the wave deck next to the Surf Lagoon wave pool. All children 48’’ and under are required to wear a US Coast Guard approved flotation device while swimming in the Surf Lagoon.

Can towels, lockers and tubes be rented?
Yes. Rates are:
  • Towel:  $4.00
  • Family Size Locker: $10.99
  • Regular Locker: $8.99
  • Mini Locker: $5.99
  • Towel & Regular Locker combo: $10.99
Prices are subject to change without notice.  All prices do not include 6.5% sales tax plus $3.00 refundable deposit.

Are floats, belly boards or tubes allowed in the Surf Lagoon wave pool?
No floats, belly boards or tubes are allowed in the Surf Lagoon wave pool.
Can I bring food or drinks into the park?
Yes, as always Wet ‘n Wild allows food and beverages to be brought into the park. However, alcoholic beverages, glass containers and grills are prohibited. Wet ‘n Wild reserves the right to limit size and quantity of “picnic baskets” and coolers.

Are tube rentals necessary to ride the rides?
No, you do not need to rent a tube in order to experience any of the rides. Tubes will be supplied at the rides that do require tubes.

Are children's floats (arm floats, inflatable tubes) allowed?
Yes, with parental supervision and only in the Lazy River, Kids' Park, Blastaway BeachTM and Surf Lagoon wave pool.

Are beach balls, frisbees and volleyballs allowed in the park?
Yes.

Are wheelchairs allowed in the park?
Yes.

Is there a dress code for the park?
T-shirts: T-shirts are allowed to be worn in the park and on most of the rides. T-shirts are prohibited on single passenger thrill rides such as The Bomb Bay or Der Stuka. Cover-ups/Board shorts: Cover-ups and board shorts are allowed in the park and on most of the rides. Please note that cut-offs or items with metal fasteners, rivets, zippers and buckles are prohibited. Water shoes: Water shoes are allowed to be worn in the park and on most of the rides. Water shoes are prohibited on single passenger thrill rides such as The Bomb Bay or Der Stuka.

All apparel is subject to lifeguard approval.

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Flagship Cruises San Diego Harbor Tours Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Full Bay Cruise cover?
This tour covers it all: Harbor and Shelter Islands, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, North Island Naval Air Station, the Submarine Base, as well as the Coronado Bridge, and much more.

How long is the Full Bay Cruise tour?
The tour is about 25 miles in length and last 2 hours.

What does the North Bay Cruise cover?
View the North Island Naval Air Station, Harbor and Shelter Islands, the Naval Sub Base and the Cabrillo National Monument.

What does the South Bay Cruise cover?
Take in the Star of India, the U.S. Navy surface fleet, Coronado Bay Bridge and busy shipyards.
How long are the North and South Bay Tours?
Each tour is about 12 miles in length and lasts 1 hour.

Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.

Can I bring food or drink on board?
No. However, for your convenience, snacks, beer, wine and sodas are available for purchase.

Is seating indoors or outdoors?
We provide both indoor and outdoor seating on our vessel.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.

San Diego Dining Cruises ID 4535

What time should I arrive?
The ship boards 15-30 minutes prior to departure.

Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.

  • 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
  • USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
  • B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day
  • Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)

*Parking rates subject to change*

What should I wear?
There is no official dress code, guests do tend to dress a bit more formally for the dinning cruise.

Is Smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.

Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.

Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.

What if it rains?
Tours are not necessarily cancelled due to rain, however if there is a wind advisory or if weather conditions are extremely poor, then it’s possible the tour will be cancelled by the Captain the morning of. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, or receive a full refund.

Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.

What does the menu consist of?
Captain's Dinner Menu
Salad:
  • Flagship Caesar Wedge – Crisp hearts of romaine, shaved Parmesan cheese, garlic croutons and classic Caesar dressing.  Locally Baked Fresh Breads from St. Tropez Bakery and creamery butter.

Entrée: (Please select one of the following entrees when making your reservation.)
  • Slow Roasted Creekstone Farms Prime Rib of Beef - Stone Smoked Porter au jus, creamy horseradish sauce, farm fresh vegetables, twice-baked rosemary, and white cheddar potato. (Sunday's Only)
  • Eggplant Parmesan - Crispy breaded and baked eggplant with mozzarella and marinara served with linguini and oven roasted seasonal vegetables. (Vegetarian)
  • Portobello Steak - Fresh Portobello mushroom marinated in red wine, garlic and cracked pepper then grilled. Served with herb roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables. (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
  • Braised Beef Short Rib - Beef short ribs marinated in red wine, fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, slow braised until meltingly tender, topped with caramelized onion relish. Paired with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and oven roasted seasonal vegetables. (Gluten-Free)
  • Pan-Seared Sustainable Salmon Filet - Pesto glazed sustainable salmon with smoked tomato béchamel. Paired with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and oven roasted seasonal vegetables. (Gluten-Free. Contains Nuts.)
  • Free-Range Chicken Breast - Bacon wrapped, blue cheese stuffed California free range chicken breast with mild red chili cream sauce. Paired with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and oven roasted seasonal vegetables.

Dessert Selections: (Choice of one)
  • Semi-Traditional Mud Pie
  • Classic Cheesecake
  • Pecan Brownie ala Mode
  • Fresh Seasonal Fruits and Local Berries

There are Optional Starters available for an additional charge.

Do you have a children’s menu?
Yes, children ages 4-12 dine on Macaroni and Cheese Entrée, Chicken Fingers, Two Huge Chocolate Chip Cookies and Seasonal Fresh Fruit.

Do I need a ticket for my child under 3?
No, children under 3 are free and must be accompanied by an adult. 

Is gratuity included?
Yes, a service charge is included in the cost of your ticket. However, if your experience is exceptional, gratuities are appreciated.

Flagship Cruises Patriot Jet Boat Ride

Do you really see whales?
Yes. San Diego is one of the top gray whale watching destinations in the world.

Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
  • 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
  • USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
  • B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day
  • Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)
*Parking rates subject to change*
What else do you see?
In addition to California gray whale adults and calves, you could also see finback whales, blue whales, humpback whales, minke, killer, and false killer whales. Additionally, you could see pods of hundreds of dolphins including risso's, common, and white sided, and other marine life such as sea lions and a variety of coastal birds.
Is smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
Why is this cruise different from your regular Whale Watching cruise?
The Patriot Jet Boat Whale Watching cruise is a high speed, 1.5 hour trip out to sea and back. There are no naturalists on board. It’s a great way to go out to see the whales if you don’t have a lot of time, but want a great adventure!
How far will we cruise into the ocean?
In the beginning of the season, the southbound whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. Toward the end of the season, when the northbound whales swim further out, we can cruise up to 9-12 miles off the coast.
Can I touch the whales?
No.
Should I make reservations?
Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this tour. There is the chance we will sell out on busy days, especially on the weekends.
What should I wear?
We suggest dressing in layers, as the temperature/winds are often unpredictable. The ride out to the whales can reach speeds of up to 50 mph. It will be cold and there is a strong possibility you may get wet. It is also recommend you bring sunscreen.
Do you have a place to store valuables?
No. Passengers are advised not to carry valuables while riding the boat. We do supply a small plastic bag to put a camera, phone or keys into. Flagship Cruises & Events accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to property.
What time should I be there?
Allow enough time for traffic, find parking and to check in for your boarding pass. The cruise boards at 11:00 am. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. If you prefer a specific seating area, be early so you can be the first in line.

Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Can I bring food or drink on board?
No.

Are your whale sightings guaranteed?
Yes! That means if you don’t see whales you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise, good for any day of the week. Or, if you prefer, you may request a ticket for a 1 or 2 hour narrated tour instead.

Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.

What if it rains?
Due to the open-air seating, tours on the Patriot are cancelled due to rain. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, go out on the regular tour (if available) or receive a full refund.
Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Is seating indoors or outdoors?
The Patriot has only outdoor seating available. We recommend that you dress in layers and be advised that you may get wet.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No. All guests, including those with disabilities or who use a wheelchair, must be able to transfer into and out of the Patriot by themselves or with the assistance of a member in their party.

Flagship Cruises Whale Watching with Birch Aquarium Frequently Asked Questions

Do you really see whales?
Yes. San Diego is one of the top gray whale watching destinations in the world.

Do you see more whales in the morning or afternoon?
Your chances of seeing whales are the same on the morning or afternoon cruise.
What day of the week is better?
Your chances of seeing whales are the same no matter what the day of the week, however, weekend tours tend to be more crowded.

Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
  • 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
  • USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
  • B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day 
  •  Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)
*Parking rates subject to change*
What else do you see?
In addition to California gray whale adults and calves, you could also see finback whales, blue whales, humpback whales, minke, killer, and false killer whales. Additionally, you could see pods of hundreds of dolphins including risso's, common, and white sided, and other marine life such as sea lions and a variety of coastal birds.
Is smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
Why are you different from other whale watching companies?
Flagship Cruises & Events is the only company whose tours are guided by experts from Birch Aquarium at Scripps, now celebrating our 14th year of partnership. Proceeds from each tour help support Birch Aquarium at Scripps’ education and conservation programs.
How far will we cruise into the ocean?
In the beginning of the season, the southbound whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. Toward the end of the season, when the northbound whales swim further out, we can cruise up to 9-12 miles off the coast.

Can I touch the whales?
No.
Should I make reservations?
Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this tour. There is the chance we will sell out on busy days, especially on the weekends.
What should I wear?
We suggest dressing in layers, as the temperature/winds are often unpredictable. Be prepared for cool weather even if it’s sunny out side. It is also recommend you bring sunscreen and a hat.
What time should I be there?
Allow enough time for traffic, find parking and to check in for your boarding pass. The morning cruise boards at 9:15am and the afternoon cruise boards at 1:00pm. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. If you prefer a specific seating area, be early so you can be the first in line.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Can I bring food or drink on board?
No. However, for your convenience, we have a snack bar plus hot and cold beverages available on board for purchase.

Are your whale sightings guaranteed?
Yes! That means if you don’t see whales you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise, good for any day of the week. Or, if you prefer, you may request a ticket for a 1 or 2 hour narrated tour instead.
Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
What if it rains?
Tours are not necessarily cancelled due to rain, however if there is a wind advisory or if weather conditions are extremely poor, then it’s possible the tour will be cancelled by the Captain the morning of. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, or receive a full refund.
Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Is seating indoors or outdoors?
We provide both indoor and outdoor seating on our vessel.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Walk Street Walks Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Yes, advance ticket purchase is required. Tours typically sell out quickly. To maximize your chance of getting the date, time, and number of tickets you prefer, please book well in advance. 


Can I get a refund or reschedule my tickets?
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded or rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed on the tour. Our tours often sell out. No partial credits or rescheduling is allowed for partial attendance, no shows, or late arrivals. It is your responsibility to show up at the right location, on time. The tours depart promptly at the advertised time.
If a tour is sold out, can I get on a waiting list?
We do not provide a waiting list. If a date and time is sold out, there is always a chance that we will add an additional tour on that day.


Do you offer discounted tickets for children and seniors?
Currently we do not offer any discounted tickets for children and seniors.
Are there any age restrictions?
Children are welcome on the tour, but please bear in mind that some children have a limited attention span and therefore a 90 minute tour may not be appropriate for them. Parents know their children best and should assess the situation individually. Since there is a lot of standing and walking please consider this when deciding whether the tours are appropriate for your child.


Also, the tours require a certain level of physical stamina. We are on our feet for approximately 90 minutes. There are no hills or stairs on the walking tours.
How physically fit do I need to be to enjoy this tour?
Tours walk at an easy pace and cover less than two miles of walking. Our tours are generally appropriate for all ages and fitness levels, but please use your best judgment. We are on our feet for approximately 90 minutes.


Do the tours have anything to offer a native New Yorker?
Definitely! Many of our attendees live right here in New York. Locals often join us to learn about the great buildings and architecture in the “Heart of Wall Street” The financial district is brimming with lively tales and history that you will be surprised by! This tour is a fantastic way to rediscover your own hometown. Many locals also discover many new restaurants and bars on the tours.
Do the tours start and end at the same place?
The tours end within a few blocks of the starting point. Your tour guide will be happy to assist with directions at the end of the tour.


What happens if it rains?
History happened in the rain as well. The tours are held rain or shine. You should dress appropriately for the day’s weather conditions and bring an umbrella if necessary.
Are bathrooms available during the tours?
There are no bathrooms stops on the tours. However, there are several public bathrooms in the area and we strongly recommend that you use the facilities before meeting up for the tour.


Is smoking allowed on the tour?
The tours maintain a no-smoking policy.
Are cameras allowed on the tours? Yes! In fact, we strongly encourage participants to take photos during the tour. However, we do not allow video cameras or tape recorders.

Are the tours accessible by baby stroller and wheelchair?
Yes! All the sidewalks (pavements) have ramps and it’s one of the best areas in New York to visit by wheelchair or with a baby stroller.  We suggest to take a NYC Bus to Downtown, as a wheelchair can travel on all the NYC transit buses.
Are tours offered only in English? Yes, we only offer tours in English at this time. Tours can be offered in German with prior arrangement. Please email us or call if you would like to make arrangements for your own interpreter to join the tour.

Which subway do I take to Wall Street?
Wall Street stop on the 2, 3, 4 or 5 train.
Broad Street stop on the J, M.
Rector Street stop on the R, W.
Broadway-Nassau Street / Fulton Street stop on the A, C.
Which bus do I take to Wall Street? M1, M6, M9, M15, M22 & M103 all stop in the area.

Is there parking nearby the tour meeting point?
Yes, there are a few parking facilities around the area. Parking in Manhattan is expensive and public transportation is highly recommended.
What is the difference between the History of Wall Street Tour and the Stock Market History Tour?
When we started doing tours of the Financial District, our tour was called the "Stock Market History Tour." After a while, we realized we also covered some American and Revolutionary War history, as it all tied together. It's impossible to talk about one and ignore the other. Thus, we renamed our tour the "History of Wall Street Tour" to more fully describe the scope of the tour.


What is Wall Street?
Wall Street is the one block square area of downtown New York around the New York Stock Exchange (the Stock Market) and around Wall Street.
Where did Wall Street get its name?
Wall Street is located on the site of an old wall which protected the northern edge of the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam in the 1600s. 


How do I know if this tour is for me?
If you are interested in history, the stock market, trade or just curious about Wall Street, you will enjoy this tour.
Can I book a private tour? 
Do we go inside the stock exchange?
Unfortunately not! Since 9/11 security is strict and the NYSE public gallery has been closed.


Do your tour guides accept gratuities?
Yes they do! It is customary in the United States to tip service professionals such as waiters, cab drivers and tour guides as a way of thanking them for good service.

 

Belmont Park Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Belmont Park open 24 hours a day?
Belmont Park is always open. Check with individual businesses within the resort for specific hours of operation.


Where is Belmont Park located?
Located 1 mile west of Sea World in San Diego, Belmont Park can be found at 3146 Mission Blvd. in the heart of Mission Beach. The closest international airport is in San Diego, with bus and shuttle services available. 
Do I have to pay to park? No. Surrounding Belmont Park are four free, public lots that are available to guests and beach goers alike.  These are the recommended parking areas for Belmont guests.

Is smoking allowed in Belmont Park?
For the comfort and safety of all of our guests, Belmont Park is a smoke free environment. Smoking of any kind is not permitted in Belmont Park, including the common areas of the park and all outdoor restaurants and bars on the property.
Are pets allowed at the Park?
Animals needed to assist guests (such as guide and service dogs) are welcome at Belmont Park. Other pets, however, are not permitted.