FAQ

How are invitations made to the Forum on Global Engagement?

Guests were invited by the ISE/SAS President and Board of Trustees based on their level of engagement and support of the SAS program.

How early can I board the ship August 21?

Embarkation begins at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 21, 2011 and concludes at 1 p.m.

Are children welcome on the Forum on Global Engagement?

There is not an organized children’s program on this voyage.

What is the cancellation policy?

We have limited space on the ship and kindly request earliest notification if you or your guests are unable to attend so that others may have the opportunity to participate. No additions to the voyage may be made after August 12.

What is the attire for the Forum on Global Engagement?

We ask FGE participants to wear “business casual” attire during the day and “business” attire for seated dinners on two evenings during the event. Please note that the ship can be very cool and sweaters are recommended.

For men, “business casual” attire includes khaki pants or slacks and a button down shirt or polo, and “business” attire includes khaki pants or slacks, a button down shirt, and sports coat.

For women, "business casual" attire includes khaki pants or slacks, button down top or sweater, or a dress, and “business” attire includes slacks with a dressy top or a dress.

Is there anything I cannot bring onto the ship?

Alcohol is not permitted to be carried on board the ship.

What should I do if I have special needs?

There is a place on the online registration form to list any special needs you may have. Traveling on a ship can pose challenges for those individuals with physical impairments, including moving and uneven surfaces and steep gangway steps or special dietary needs. ISE remains committed to providing travel, work, and study opportunities for everyone. We will evaluate each situation individually and make every possible effort to accommodate the special needs of each participant.

Does everyone need a passport?

Yes, all passengers are required to have a valid passport.

May I use a passport card to travel to Montreal, Canada or do I need the traditional passport book?

From the State Department: "The new wallet-sized U.S. passport card is a travel document that can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry. Note that it cannot be used for international air travel."

I need to change some of my registration information for me and/or my guest. How do I proceed with making changes?

You may make changes to your registration form by using the link provided in the registration email or by calling Abigail Maynard at 434.243.4376 (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST). You may also submit your changes by email: [This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots; you need JavaScript enabled to view it]

What if someone needs to reach me while I am on board the ship?

• Telephone: Family members and friends can call the ship 24 hours a day by dialing a toll-free number: 877-266-0986 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting(outside the U.S.: 872-335-3265). The caller will be asked to provide a credit card that will be charged approximately $3.95 per minute. An attendant at the Reception/Purser's desk will answer the call and connect the caller directly to the phone in the participant's cabin (note: charges initiate as soon as the attendant answers the call). The Institute for Shipboard Education, through an agreement with Wireless Maritime Systems (WMS), offers an advanced roaming network onboard the MV Explorer, allowing participants to make and receive calls and text messages using their own mobile phone. To use the WMS mobile network, participants must enable international roaming with their cell phone provider. Rates are determined by the cell phone provider and typically start at $2.50 per minute.
• Email: The ship has free WIFI and there is a computer lab for those without laptops.