Welcome to the BHRT Symposium at Sea FAQ page!

Here, you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our exciting conference aboard the MSC Seashore. From general ship information to conference details, we’ve got you covered to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at providersupport@bhrttrainingacademy.com—we’re here to help!

General Ship Information

What is the name of the cruise ship hosting the conference?

MSC Seashore

Where will the ship depart from?

Port Canaveral, Florida - 9005 Charles M Rowland Dr, Cape Canaveral, FL 32920

What ports of call are included in the cruise itinerary?

  • Day 1: Thursday, April 10th | Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida

  • Day 2: Friday, April 11th | Nassau, Bahamas

  • Day 3: Saturday, April 12th | Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas 

  • Day 4: Sunday, April 13th | Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida

What time should attendees arrive for embarkation?

We kindly ask all attendees to arrive on board no later than 1:30 PM, as programming begins promptly at 2:00 PM onboard. While your cruise documents will include a specific embarkation time, we recommend arriving between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM. This allows ample time to settle into your cabin, enjoy a meal onboard, and make your way to the ballroom for the 2:00 PM kickoff.For more information about Cruise Embarkation, please see the MSC Website for further details.

Are there any specific boarding requirements or documents needed?

Please refer to the Travel Documents & Visas page on the MSC Cruise Line website for more information.

Do I need a passport or visa to attend the cruise?

Please see the Travel Documents & Visas page on the MSC website for more details.

Are airport transfers to the cruise terminal available?

If you did not choose this option at registration or are not sure, you can contact Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com

What happens if my flight is delayed, and I miss the ship departure?

If you are flying into Orlando, we recommend and suggest you plan to fly in at minimum the night before, April 9th.  We are negotiating special hotel rates and will provide you with a link.

Is parking available at the cruise terminal, and what are the costs?

Yes, parking is available both at the terminal, as well as at various spots close to the port. Please refer to the Port Canaveral Parking Information for more details.

What luggage restrictions apply onboard the cruise?

Each guest is limited to checking in: two suitcases per person* (not exceeding 90x75x43 cm in size and 23 kg in weight per bag) and two pieces of hand luggage per person* (not exceeding 56x45x25 cm in size and 23 kg in weight per bag). If you are travelling to your departure port by air, please check the luggage size and weight limitations with your airline as this may differ from the MSC Cruises policy. The maximum amount of luggage in each cabin must not exceed 100 kg and/or 8 pieces total for all passengers in the same cabin. Any piece of luggage exceeding the allowance will not be accepted at Check-In. Guests exceeding these limits are invited to contact MSC Cruises directly or via their travel agents at the time of booking for information on how to ship luggage in excess separately via freight or cargo, at an additional charge. For more information please refer to the MSC Website on Luggage Handling

Can I bring my own food, beverages, or special items onboard?

In the interest of health and safety, beverages and food (including partially eaten or home cooked items) may not be brought on board either. Exception: dry, packaged and commercially produced foods. Additionally, no alcohol may be brought on board, and guests who do bring alcohol will be forced to check it for the duration of the cruise. Cruises will be forced to deny access to any guests not complying with these mandated regulations.

How do I handle travel insurance for the trip?

If you did not choose this at registration or are not sure, please contact Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com

Are there laundry facilities or services on the ship?

There are no laundry facilities on board, however MSC offers laundry service for a modest single charge, you and every traveller in your cabin can use the service whenever you like for up to 40 items per cabin per cruise. More details will be available when you are onboard. 

Is Wi-Fi available on the ship? If so, is it free or at an additional cost?

Yes, Wi-Fi is available on board all MSC ships, and has been included free of charge in your BHRT Symposium at Sea registration package.

What dining options are available onboard?

We will be dining as a group for lunches, but the MSC Seashore offers an abundance of dining choices with 11 distinct venues including three main restaurants, a dedicated Aurea spa restaurant, the MSC Yacht Club restaurant, Marketplace buffet, and five specialty restaurants that are all located together in Chef’s Court. Each venue serves up its own mouthwatering menu of international cuisine offering unforgettable gourmet adventures in an array of wonderful surroundings. Some specialty dining options are not included in your cruise pricing and will require a nominal fee.

Are special dietary accommodations available, and how can I request them?

Guests can inform MSC Cruises of any special requirements by filling in the relevant form Special Needs Form. Please email the completed form to specialneeds@msccruisesusa.com. This information should preferably be provided at the time of booking, or, no fewer than 30 days before departure. This allows us time to provide the best possible service for our guests, which depends on the facilities and resources on board each ship. If we are notified after this deadline we will do everything in our power to provide the services requested, but this may not be possible at such short notice.

Is there medical assistance available on the ship in case of an emergency?

All MSC cruise ships have a well-equipped Medical Centre, supervised by a ship’s doctor and other medical personnel. The Medical Centre is open at the times advertised in the ship’s Daily Programme. Emergency services are available round the clock by calling the Medical Emergency number. Excluding emergencies, medical services carry a fee and prices are available on board. Guests who incur medical expenses during their cruise can ask their insurance company for reimbursement once ashore.

How can I find my way around the ship?

The ship is equipped with interactive deck plans on each floor, indicating what is located where. For ease of navigation, all BHRT Symposium content will be in the same room.

Are there elevators and accessible areas for individuals with disabilities?

Included in your cruise,all non-specialty restaurant meals, basic drink package, WiFi, and all government fees, taxes, and gratuities.

What costs are included in my cruise?

Included in your cruise,all non-specialty restaurant meals, basic drink package, WiFi, and all government fees, taxes, and gratuities.

How do I handle purchases on board?

All onboard purchases can be made with the personal cruise card, eliminating the need to carry cash or credit cards on board. After embarking and collecting the Cruise Card from your stateroom, you should activate it for onboard purchases by self-registering your credit/debit/prepaid card at one of the Cruise Card Activation Points. You can do this independently, at any time from embarkation until 11:00pm the following day, at any of the Cruise Card Activation Points located around the ship. These new devices let you register your card simply, rapidly and securely. Please note that you will be asked to enter the PIN number. Alternatively, you can leave a cash deposit at the Reception – Guest Service.

Can I upgrade my drink package?

Yes, this option is available to all our guests. In pre-cruise sales, the upgrades are available only for the guests with the package included in their cruise promotion, furthermore at the discounted price. On board, all upgrade options are open for all guests at full price. For more information please contact Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com.

Is there Wi-Fi on board?

Basic Wi-Fi for one device is included in the price of your conference ticket. Upgraded plans are available for multiple devices and higher bandwidth speed. Please contact Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com.  Important to note  that regardless of the bandwidth speed, internet on cruise ships tends to be spotty.

Are shore excursions included in the conference package?

No, shore excursions are not included in your conference package, but can be purchased on the MSC website or in person on board. Please make sure to check the conference schedule to ensure you are not missing an essential part of the conference during your excursion timing.

Conference Questions -  BHRT Symposium At Sea

How do I book my spot for the conference and the cruise?

Are conference tickets and cruise bookings bundled together or purchased separately?

For your convenience, the cruise and conference registration has been bundled together.  Visit registration page here https://go.bhrttrainingacademy.com/symposium-at-sea-2025

What is included in the cost of the conference package?

  • ONE or TWO (depending on package selected) Full admissions to the conference

  • Cruise for two (bringing a guest) or Single 

  • 3 night cruise aboard the MSC Seashore, double occupancy 

  • Beautiful balcony room

  • Drink package 

  • Wifi 

  • Government Fees & Gratuities 

  • Breakfast, lunch, private cocktail receptions, onboard discounts, and dinners throughout the cruise and conference for Two

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Refunds available, less $200 per person deposit available before January 31, 2025.  No refunds available after February 1, 2025.

Are payment plans available?

50% payment due at time of registration, final 50% due and charged automatically 30 days later or by February 1, whichever comes first.

How can I verify that my registration and booking are confirmed?

You should have received an automatic confirmation regarding your booking.  Any questions.  Any questions regarding your booking please email Denise at Providersupport@bhrttrainingacademy.com.

Can I upgrade my cabin or add additional amenities to my booking?

Yes, please contact Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com

What happens if I need to transfer my ticket to someone else?

Please reach out to Denise by email at Providersupport@bhrttrainingacademy.com and she will help you.  The last day for any changes is February 9, 2025.

Are there any additional taxes, fees, or gratuities to account for?

No, all taxes, fees and gratuities are included in the cost of your conference ticket.

Can I request a specific cabin location?

We have arranged for all Symposium at Sea attendees to have an upgraded balcony cabin.  If you have any special requests for other upgrade options please contact  Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com.

What is the theme of the conference?

Navigating the New Era of Bioidentical Hormones

Where will the conference sessions take place onboard?

Conference sessions will take place in the Le Cabaret Rouge Lounge, located on Deck 6, aft. All gatherings outside of conference sessions will be indicated in your BHRT Daily Program.

What time do the conference sessions start and end each day?

Please refer to your Daily Program for daily start and end times.

How do I check in for the conference upon arrival on the ship?

Beginning at 1:30pm, you can proceed to the Le Cabaret Rouge Lounge, on Deck 6, to receive your conference materials, as we begin on embarkation day at 2pm. You will receive a Conference Badge at the event check-in, which you will be required to wear for entrance into all conference sessions. Badges are not required for evening gatherings.

Are meals included during the conference, or do attendees need to plan meals separately?

Breakfast and dinners will be on your own so that you can get a chance to enjoy the offerings of the ship, but we will be dining together as a group for lunch daily. All meals that are not in specialty restaurants are included in the price of your ticket. Specialty dining restaurants will incur a nominal fee that is indicated in your ship’s information.

Will there be networking events or meet-and-greet opportunities?

Yes! What is a trip at sea without networking opportunities? Your first one starts Day One at 1:30pm for registration and others will be indicated in your Daily Program.

Is there a mobile app or online platform for conference schedules and updates?

Yes. We will be providing information on this mobile app in your pre-cruise information so that you can download it prior to boarding. Internet is included in your package, but please note that it can be spotty depending on weather. As a backup, a daily printed program will be delivered to your stateroom nightly.

Are keynote speeches or breakout sessions recorded for later viewing?

Yes. Information on how to obtain these sessions will be shared with you.

Can I bring a guest to the conference sessions?

While guests are allowed to join for evening meals and activities, we request that only ticketed conference participants attend conference sessions and lunch sessions.

Will there be a Q&A opportunity with speakers and panelists?

Yes, we are coordinating optional Q & A sessions for attendees with speakers.

Is there a dress code for conference sessions or specific events (e.g., gala dinner)?

Conference sessions are business casual, however, we recommend that you please bring a light sweater or jacket as sometimes the indoor spaces tend to get cold. For the evenings, however - you are on vacation, dress accordingly!! There are three themed evenings/parties on board, however:

  • Thursday night: Embarkation Night - Sunshine Party - 70s/80s resort-style

    • Friday night: White Night Party - don your most chic and stylish white attire!

  • Saturday night: Glow Party - think vibrant colors, glowing accessories, fun and casual that looks good in a blacklight!

How do I provide feedback about the conference experience?

MSC will send you a survey regarding the cruise accommodations, but BHRT will be sending a post-event survey as well. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to rate your speakers in the app after each session.

Will I have opportunities to network with other attendees outside of conference sessions?

Yes, conference sessions conclude daily around 5pm, allowing ample time in the evenings for networking. Additionally, on Saturday, the conference will end earlier to allow attendees to venture off the ship and enjoy MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay.

Can I extend my cruise after the conference ends?

Please contact Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com

How will I receive updates or announcements during the cruise and conference?

BHRT specific Daliy Programs will be delivered to your stateroom nightly. Additionally, we suggest attendees download the BHRT Symposium at Sea Event App for up-to-the-minute information, communication opportunities, event pushes, speaker information, networking opportunities and more.

How do I download the Event App?

Instructions to follow prior to cruise.

What should I do if I lose my room key or conference badge?

If you lose your room key, you can get it easily replaced by the Guest Services Desk in the center of the ship. If you lose your Conference Badge, please see any of our friendly BHRT staff on board, and they can get a replacement printed for you.

Who can I contact if I have additional questions before the conference?

Please email providersupport@bhrttrainingacademy.com for any questions pertaining to the conference and a BHRT Training Academy team member will be in contact with you within 24-48 hours.

Things to Do Onboard

What entertainment options are available on the ship during the cruise?

MSC offers a wide variety of entertainment on board. Please refer to the On Board Entertainment page on the MSC website for more information.

Are there any pools on board?

The MSC Seashore features:

  • Aft Infinity Pool: A favorite spot for serene wake views and featuring two infinity whirlpools.

  • Long Island Pool: Located on deck 18 featuring two different depths, a 360-degree water fountain island and is connected to Pirates Cove Aquapark (waterslide, adventure trail & more).

  • Jungle Pool: Located on deck 16 featuring a large magrodome that can be closed or opened (as needed), a close distance to the buffet and an additional deck for more room to relax.

  • MSC Yacht Club Pool: Exclusive to MSC Yacht Club guests with a spacious solarium, shaded cabanas and whirlpools.

Is there a spa or fitness center on board?

At nearly 25,000 square feet, the contemporary MSC Aurea Spa on MSC Seashore offers a wide selection of Balinese massages and other wellness and beauty treatments to revitalize your body and soul with relaxation, well-being, and pampering. Spa treatments are not included in your conference package.

  • 21 treatment rooms

  • MediSpa center

  • Exclusive outdoor area

  • Professional hair and nail salon

  • Barbershop

  • Enhanced Thermal Area (featuring a scrub room, steam room, salt room, snow room, Finnish Sauna, Soft Sauna, Blower Pool, Mediterranean bath, and a Vertical Kneipp)

  • MSC Gym Powered by Technogym®

I have an upgraded room and it says I am part of the MSC Yacht Club, what does that mean?

Spanning four decks (with an additional deck compared with other Seaside-class ships) and with more than 32,000-square-feet of space, MSC Seashore’s MSC Yacht Club is the largest in the fleet. Located on the coveted fore decks and providing sweeping sea views, the MSC Yacht Club includes: 

  • Private luxury accommodations

  • Large solarium with whirlpools

  • Exclusive restaurant & lounge

  • Private pool

  • 24-hour butler service

  • Complimentary drinks

  • Private shore excursions & shopping experiences ($)

What evening shows, performances or entertainment events are on board?

We are not over-programming your time on board so that you can enjoy the wide array of entertainment that MSC has to offer. MSC Seashore offers all types of entertainment from day through night, from the high-tech Madison Theatre showcasing spectacular evening production shows and expansive casino offering the latest slots, table games, and tournaments to interactive onboard thrills including an F1 race car simulator, a virtual reality river rafting simulator, and an immersive XD Cinema. In addition, take in MSC Seashore’s extensive art collection, which you’ll find located throughout the ship from landings and corridors to dedicated galleries.

Is childcare available onboard for attendees traveling with children?

Yes.  MSC has a Kids Club for children ages 0 to 17 years.  Babies must be 6 months old to participate in the Baby Club.

Are there onboard shopping options?

All ships have duty free and tax free shops, hair and beauty salons and photographic services. Prices are published on board. All items in the shops are not included in the price of your ticket.

Are there photographers or videographers onboard to capture the conference and cruise experience?

Yes, in addition to the normal cruise photographers, BHRT Training Academy has hired their own photographer/videographer to capture your moments on board.

Is tipping expected onboard, and how does it work?

Gratuities are included in the cost of your conference ticket. However, if any ship staff go above and beyond and you would like to tip them in cash, please feel free to do so, but it is not required nor expected.

Can I make special requests for my cabin (e.g., extra bedding, specific views)?

If you have any special requests for other upgrade options please contact  Belkis Veliz from Cruise Planners at Belkis.veliz@cruiseplanners.com.

Are pets allowed onboard the cruise?

Pets are not allowed to sail on board MSC Cruise Line. Certified Service dogs are permitted to sail if all required documentation is provided.  Guests are required to submit a special needs form to specialneeds@msccruisesusa.com  30 days before sailing.  Documentation that is required includes but not limited to:

  • Verification that the animal is a service dog with a brief explanation of what the animal has been trained to perform

  • Vaccination certificate

  • Veterinarian certificate stating that the animal is healthy

  • Department of Agriculture permits

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