UPA | United Performing Association

* safe & unique
* performers showcased on stage during day at sea
* occurs over the Easter holiday
* travel with friends, family or your group
* not everyone on the team/line would need to attend
* all inclusive: meals & entertainment included in the price
* cruise is 4 days / 3 nights from Miami to Nassau, BAHAMAS
* variety of competition styles
* individual, small group & team/line events
* performances may not include stunting or tumbling
* everyone needs a passport
* fun, fun, fun!

CARNIVAL IMAGINATION has received a multi-million dollar makeover, including the addition of Carnival WaterWorks, Resort-Style Pools, Serenity Adult Retreat Area and much more.

THE TRIP
Who May Attend?
This exciting trip is open to anyone... Young or old.. Who wants to join us for this Easter holiday on board a cruise ship.

Does My Entire STUDIO/TEAM Need To Attend?
No - Bring a handful or everyone. You can determine who competes.

PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITY IF COMPETING IS NOT YOUR THING AND YOU’D RATHER JUST PERFORM, WE HAVE THAT TOO! ROUTINES WILL BE SHOWCASED ON STAGE IN FRONT OF A LIVE AUDIENCE.

Are Chaperones Needed?
Yes – A Minimum of one chaperone is required for every ten (10) students under the age of 18. Chaperones must be 25 years or older.

Can Other People Attend?
Parents and family members are encouraged to attend the UPA Easter Cruise.

How Much Spending Money?
You will need money for baggage handling, souvenirs, and cab fares while in port. Iced tea, milk, coffee/ tea and juices are included with meals. UPA recommends $100 - $200. Soft drinks, bottled water, etc. are not included on board and will be charged to your Sail & Sign account. However, you may purchase an unlimited fountain soda card which will be valid for the entire cruise. This is a great deal.

What Is A Sail & Sign Account?
All passengers receive a special card that allows you to sail and sign anywhere on board the cruise ship.

CRUISE SPECIFIC NOTES
UPA’S GOAL IS TO PROVIDE A FANTASTAIC TRIP THAT PROMISES AN EXCITING COMPETITION ATMOSPHERE ALONG WITH AN INCREDIBLE VACATION FOR ALL WHO ATTEND. THE COMPETITION IS THE ICING ON THE CAKE DURING THIS FANTASTIC CRUISE. ENJOY EVERY MOMENT.

COMPETITION / SHOWCASE PROCESS
THE COMPETITION / SHOWCASE IS A BLAST. WE WILL HOLD THE COMPETITION / SHOWCASE DURING OUR DAY AT SEA. A COMPLETE SCHEDULE WILL BE SENT IN THE FINAL MAILING. IF YOU CHOOSE TO COMPETE YOUR ROUTINES WILL BE JUDGED BY A DISTINGUISHED, CERTIFIED JUDGING PANEL BEFORE CARNIVAL’S LIVE AUDIENCE. AN AWARD WILL BE GIVEN FOR ALL PERFORMANCES.

STUNTING / TUMBLING
THE CRUISE SHIP WILL NOT ALLOW PERFORMERS TO STUNT OR TUMBLE ON BOARD FOR SAFETY REASONS. THE COMPETITION TAKES PLACE WHILE WE ARE SAILING AND COULD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURIES TO PERFORMERS. BASIC SOMMERSAULTS AND WALK-OVERS ARE ALLOWED. CHEER TEAMS SHOULD CHOREOGRAPH A STANDARD, NON-MOUNT ROUTINE WHICH MIGHT INCLUDE CHEERS, CHANTS, SIDELINES AND/OR DANCE MOVES.

STAGE
PERFORMANCES ON CARNIVAL CRUISES TAKE PLACE IN THE MAIN LOUNGE (SUBJECT TO CHANGE). THE STAGE ON THE M.S. IMAGINATION IS 35' DEEP X 50' WIDE. IT HAS WOOD FLOOR AND A PROFESSIONAL SOUND SYSTEM. WING SPACE IS PROVIDED BACKSTAGE AND NOT ON EACH SIDE. NO CLOGGING ALLOWED.

COMPETITION / SHOWCASE AND REHEARSALS
CARNIVAL DICTATES THE DATE AND TIME OF THE COMPETITION / SHOWCASE. UPA STAFF MAKES EVERY EFFORT TO SET THE TIMES FOR AFTERNOONS WHILE AT SEA. REHEARSALS ARE NORMALLY SCHEDULE FOR EARLY MORNING. (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)
SOUND AND LIGHT EQUIPMENT
SOUND AND LIGHT EQUIPMENT IS PROVIDED BY CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES AND CAN PLAY FROM A CD. A CARNIVAL SOUND & LIGHT TECHNICIAN WILL BE PROVIDED TO ASSIST WITH YOUR PRODUCTION. ONLY THE TECHNICIAN IS PERMITTED TO OPERATE THE SOUND & LIGHT EQUIPMENT. NOTE: TECHNICIANS ARE NOT PROVIDED FOR REHEARSAL. IT IS SUGGESTED THAT YOU BRING A SOUND SYSTEM FOR YOUR REHEARSAL TIME. IT IS ALSO SUGGESTED THAT A PERSON FROM YOUR GROUP SIT IN THE BOOTH WITH THE TECHNICIAN DURING THE PERFORMANCE.

DRESSING FACILITIES
THERE IS A CURTAIN BEHIND THE STAGE WITH A SMALL SPACE BETWEEN THEM FOR COSTUME CHANGES. NO PRIVATE DRESSING ROOMS ARE AVAILABLE. WHEN POSSIBLE, WEAR THE SAME COSTUME/UNIFORM FOR MULTIPLE ROUTINES. IF YOU MUST MAKE A COSTUME CHANGE, KEEP IN MIND THAT THE BACKSTAGE AREA IS MANNED BY CARNIVAL UNION EMPLOYEES –MOST OF WHICH ARE MEN.
QUESTIONS
UPA’S GOAL IS THAT ALL CRUISE ATTENDEES FEEL INFORMED AND READY TO GO ONCE THEY BOARD THE SHIP. SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, DON’T HESITATE TO CONTACT INFO@UPAINC.NET SEE YOU ON THE CRUISE.

Do You Have An Early Registration Discount?
YES – HAVE YOUR ENVELOPE POSTMARKED ON OR BEFORE JULY 1ST TO RECEIVE $15 OFF PER PERSON.
20 KIDS X $15 PER PERSON = $300 OFF!

Where Do I Fly Into For The Cruise?
WHEN BOOKING YOUR FLIGHTS, YOU MAY FLY INTO EITHER MIAMI OR FT. LAUDERDALE. BOTH ARE NEAR THE PORT OF MIAMI. THIS IS WHERE OUR SHIP WILL DEPART FROM. YOU SHOULD PLAN ON ARRIVING AT THE PORT NO LATER THAN 2:00 PM.

ARRIVAL DAY DETAILS
AT THE MIAMI AIRPORT – NO LATER THAN 1:00 PM / APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES FROM PORT
AT THE FT. LAUDERDALE AIRPORT – NO LATER THAN 12:00 PM / APPROXIMATELY 45 MINUTES FROM PORT
TAKE THE CARNIVAL TRANSFERS TO THE SHIP
CHECK IN AT THE PORT – GET CABIN KEYS
SETTLE INTO YOUR CABIN AND GRAB LUNCH
EXPLORE THE SHIP AND GET AQUAINTED WITH THE FLOOR PLAN
ATTEND THE UPA WELCOME/ORIENTATION LOCATION ON BOARD FOR BRIEFING
SET SAIL ...

HOW DO I GET TO THE SHIP FROM THE AIRPORT?
CARNIVAL TRANSFERS
CARNIVAL TRANSFER SERVICE CAN HANDLE ALL YOUR TRANSPORTATION NEEDS. PURCHASE YOUR TRANSFERS PRIOR TO SAILING. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND PRICING.

When Can I Book My Return Flight?
TRY TO SCHEDULE YOUR RETURN FLIGHT SOMETIME AFTER 1:00 PM IF AT ALL POSSIBLE. IF YOU NEED TO DEPART EARLIER, THE SHIP WILL ACCOMMODATE YOU ON YOUR DEBARKATION. JUST NOTIFY THEM AT THE FINAL DEBARKATION DISCUSSION ON BOARD THE CRUISE SHIP.

DEPARTURE DAY DETAILS
SCHEDULE YOUR FLIGHT ANYTIME AFTER 1:00 PM
EARLIER DEPARTURES ARE POSSIBLE
BE SURE TO NOTE YOUR FLIGHT ITINERARY ON THE PAPERWORK
CARNIVAL WILL VERIFY YOUR FLIGHTS ONBOARD THE SHIP PRIOR TO DEPARTURE

How Do I Get to the Port of Miami?
TERMINAL DETAILS
Port Of Miami / Dodge Island
Terminal D - 1435 North Cruise Boulevard, Port of Miami, Miami, FL 33132
Terminal E - 1265 North Cruise Boulevard, Port of Miami, Miami, FL 33132

Travel Time:
- 8 miles from the Miami International Airport; travel time is approximately 20 minutes.
- 25 miles from the Fort Lauderdale International Airport; travel time is approximately 45 minutes.

CARNIVAL TRANSFERS
CARNIVAL REPS WILL BE LOCATED IN THE AIRPORT AT THE BAGGAGE CLAIM LEVEL. COST IS $36 PER PERSON (SUBJECT TO CHANGE), ROUND TRIP (SUBJECT TO CHANGE). YOU MAY PURCHASE AT THE AIRPORT AND CHARGE TO YOUR CABIN. NO CURRENCY IS REQUIRED.

DIRECTIONS TO THE PORT:
Traveling from I-95 North or South
Exit at I-395 east toward Miami Beach (Exit #2D).Follow the directional signs to Biscayne Boulevard (Exit #2A/#2B).Follow directions for Biscayne Boulevard South; turn right at the traffic light/stop sign.Stay in the left lane.The entrance to the Port of Miami is at Biscayne Boulevard and Port Boulevard (N.E 5th Street).At the traffic light, turn left at Port Boulevard (N.E. 5th Street).Proceed over the bridge.Stay in the left lanes and follow the signs to Cruise Terminals D/E.

Traveling from the West Coast of Florida
I-75 east toward Fort Lauderdale.I-595 east toward Fort Lauderdale.I-95 south toward Miami.Exit at I-395 east toward Miami Beach (Exit #2D).Follow the directional signs to Biscayne Boulevard (Exit #2A/#2B).Follow directions for Biscayne Boulevard South; turn right at the traffic light/stop sign.Stay in the left lane.The entrance to the Port of Miami is at Biscayne Boulevard and Port Boulevard (N.E 5th Street).At the traffic light, turn left at Port Boulevard (N.E. 5th Street).Proceed over the bridge.Stay in the left lanes and follow the signs to Cruise Terminals D/E.

Where Do I Park my car?
PARKING: $20.00 per day (rates subject to change by the Port Authority)
Parking Lot 2: Outdoor parking lot.Full payment due upon entering the parking lot.
Accepted forms of payment: U.S Dollars; U.S. Traveler's Checks
No advance reservations required
Handicap Parking available with proof of valid permit.
Oversized vehicles taking up more than one space, pay the per space rate.
For more information Contact Customer Service at 305 347-5515 or via e-mail at POMservice@miamidade.gov

Passport Changes
Advisory: As of January 23, 2007 passports are required for travel between the United States and Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean (except for travel to or from U.S. territories by U.S. citizens), and Bermuda.

As of October 1, 2007, exceptions are no longer being made for those who have applied for their passport but haven't received it. Please make sure that you have your passport with you when you arrive at the airport for your travel between the areas mentioned above.
For details, see the U.S. Department of State's Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative information.

ON BOARD SPENDING
Will I Have Charging Privileges?
Yes - A deposit or credit card must be left at the purser's desk upon arrival for charging privileges. Sail & Sign cards will be given at check-in. A minimum of $100 is required to activate the card if using cash. If a credit card is to be used, the account will be activated at the check-in desk when boarding. Cards must be the same name as the traveler. In other words, students may not bring mom or dad’s card with them. They would have to have their own. Travelers Checks, American Express, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover card are all acceptable. No business or personal checks. These charges will be automatically applied at the completion of the trip. At the end of the trip, if the full $100 is not used, a check will be issued and put under the cabin door before departure.

Will I Need To Pay Gratuities On The Ship?
No - Your prepaid gratuities cover the cabin steward and all dining room service personnel. Not included are the curbside stevedores & porters as well as room service. A 15% gratuity is added to beverages with your Sign & Sail card.

Are The Shipboard Activities An Extra Cost?
No - All activities are included--free live entertainment, game room, passenger talent show, health club & spa, in-cabin movies, swimming, dancing, and more.

Are Shore Excursions Available?
YES - TRIPS ARE AVAILABLE AT AN ADDITIONAL COST. CLICK HERE FOR SHORE EXCURSION OPTIONS. YOU MAY BOOK ONLINE OR ONCE YOU ARRIVE ON THE SHIP. A COMPLETE SET OF TOURS WILL BE GIVEN AT THE ORIENTATION. (UPA RECOMMENDS BOOKING AHEAD OF TIME AS EXCURSIONS CAN SELL OUT)

CABIN ASSIGNMENTS
What Type Of Cabin Do We Get?
WE ARE GUARANTEED A CATEGORY 4 OR HIGHER. ALL CABINS ARE INTERIOR. BECAUSE WE ARE GETTING A SPECIAL RATE, ALL GROUPS SHOULD BLOCK TRIPLE & QUAD ROOMS. A LIMITED NUMBER OF DOUBLES & SINGLES ARE AVAILABLE AND ARE RESERVED FOR COACHES/TEACHERS AND PARENTS OF PERFORMERS.

OCEAN VIEW CABINS ARE AVAILABLE. SEE PACKAGE/DUE DATES PAGE FOR DETAILS.
SUITES AVAILABLE AT AN ADDITIONAL COST. INQUIRE WITHIN.

How Many Can Stay In A Room?
Rooms are able to accommodate a maximum of four people. If there are five people in your group you will need two rooms. Not all rooms have two double beds. Rollaways may be brought in nightly to accommodate sleeping needs. Double occupancy packages may provide only one bed and triple occupancy packages may provide one double bed and a roll-a-way bed. It is strongly encouraged to book your groups as triple & quad rooms.

What If I Need To Change A Rooming Assignment?
YOUR INITIAL DEPOSIT WILL INCLUDE YOUR TENTATIVE NUMBER OF ATTENDEES AND TYPES OF CABINS. THIS CAN BE EASILY ADJUSTED AT THE TIME OF NAME SUBMISSION. YOUR ROOMING LIST (NAME SUBMISSION) IS DUE ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 1ST. AT THAT POINT, THE NAMES AND CABIN TYPES WILL BE INPUTTED INTO CARNIVAL’S DATABASE. ANY NAME CHANGE, CABIN TYPE OR CANCELLATION AFTER SEPTEMBER 1ST WILL INCUR THE $100 CHARGE PER CHANGE.

PACKING
How Does My Luggage Get To My Cabin?
Port employed stevedores will take your bags directly from the bus/car where they will be taken to your cabin. The stevedores are employees of the Port Authority and they expect a gratuity (usually $1 per bag). The group leader should collect these gratuities in advance and have them ready for the lead stevedore upon arrival (if traveling as a group). This gratuity is not included in your prepaid gratuities included in your cruise package.

When Does My Luggage Arrive At My Cabin?
Because of the large amount of sailors, it might take quite awhile to get your luggage. UPA strongly recommends you have a carry-on bag that includes a pair of shorts, swimsuit, suntan lotion and any necessities that might make your arrival more comfortable. The first meal function is casual so shorts are okay.

What Do I Need To Check-in With Carnival At The Dock?
Before arrival at the port, make sure that all travel documents are filled out and all bags are tagged with the Carnival Bags Tags that will be provided in your ticket packet. Please keep your travel documents with you and not in your luggage.

Where Should I Pack My Costume/Uniform?
Costumes/uniforms should be carried on board and stored in your cabin. UPA/FST Carnival Cruise Lines are not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged costumes.

GENERAL DETAILS TO KNOW
Do I Need To Be Concerned About Drinking On The ship?
NO – ALL STUDENTS WILL HAVE A SPECIAL STUDENT I.D. CARD WHICH WILL PREVENT THEM FROM EVER ORDERING AND/OR RECEIVING A DRINK. ALL PASSENGERS ON THE SHIP MUST ALWAYS USE AN I.D. CARD SO THERE’S NO WAY FOR THEM TO GET A DRINK. INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER ARE LEGALLY ALLOWED TO DRINK AND WILL NOT BE ISSUED THIS CARD.

Are There Any Hidden Expenses That Come Up Later?
No – All costs are worked into the package price including gratuities. You will need to tip the luggage handlers (if you use them). They are not included in our pre-paid gratuity personnel. Typically we recommend tipping $1 per bag.

Who Staffs The Event?
UPA Staff are highly trained experts in the dance/cheer world. They have staffed numerous tours and are very familiar with the program. UPA staff will connect daily at the dinner seating time. We will also provide cabin numbers for you to leave messages.

What Type Of Clothing Should I Bring?
The attire for the cruise is casual with the exception of one formal dinner on board the ship. Bring shorts, tank tops & a rain poncho. Be prepared for any type of weather. Don't forget your swim suit and beach towel as well as your uniform/costume. No shorts, t-shirts, swimsuits or cutoffs allowed in the dining room. Prom dresses would be very appropriate for the formal dinner and jackets/ties for men.

What Meals & Snacks Are Available?
Meals and snacks will always be available at no charge. Come prepared for great meals & snacks including 3 gourmet dinners, 3 buffet breakfasts, 3 luncheons, late night buffets and 24-hour pizzeria. No food or beverages of any kind may be brought on board the ship. This includes bottled water.

When Will Our Group Eat Dinner?
Groups are always blocked at the EARLY dinner seating time AT APPROXIMATELY 6 PM. All UPA attendees and guests will be assigned to specific tables for the meal.

What If I Have A Special Diet?
Special diet requirements may be requested at least two weeks prior to sailing. There may be limitations in our ability to accommodate special orders. Kosher meals are not available.

Is There A Doctor On Board?
Yes - The ship's infirmary is equipped to treat minor non- emergency matters. A doctor is available to render services at a customary charge. Doctors are independent contractors.

What If I Have Special Needs?
Carnival seeks, to the extent feasible, to accommodate guests with special needs. Service animals are permitted on board if prior arrangements have been made at the time of booking. Special cabins for the physically challenged are available on a limited basis. We may find it necessary to ask the guest to bring along a companion in some situations so that they may assist or make alternative arrangements. Arrangements for special needs must be made at the time of booking to insure that facilities are available.

Does The Ship Have Specific Rules We Need To Adhere To?
Yes - We want your cruise to be a pleasant experience for everyone. The following is a list of rules that will be enforced while on board.

* No noise in cabin areas after 10:00 PM.
* No running in the hallways.
* Abuse or theft of physical property will not be tolerated.
* No drinking of alcoholic beverages for those under the age of 21.
* No abusive or offensive language.
* Purchase, possession and consumption of illegal drugs will not be tolerated.
* Headphones must be used with radios on deck.
* Boom boxes are allowed for group practice and rehearsals.

* Large radios (boom boxes) are not permitted on board.
* Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in the offender(s) being removed from the ship to make his/her own way home at their own expense.

Can I Bring A 2 Year Old?
Yes - ChildREN must be at least 4 months to travel, then full fare. No children's rates available on cruise ships.

Can I Attend If I Am Pregnant?
Yes – You can travel if you are 23 weeks or earlier at the time the ship sails.

What Is UPA’s Goal?
UPA’s goal is to provide an exciting trip that promises an exciting competition atmosphere along with an incredible vacation for all who attend!

CARNIVAL IMAGINATION has received a multi-million dollar makeover, including the addition of Carnival WaterWorks, Resort-Style Pools, Serenity Adult Retreat Area and much more.