March 19, 2012 So. Caribbean From Baltimore

[2crusin]

decorations up inside & out - gifts wrapped - cookies baked again -
We're ready for the man in the red suit... :D

Wishing everyone good health this holiday season :)

[dixieva]

Yay-the final gift that I ordered on line and that was on back order finally came today so now everything is wrapped and ready. Nothing left to do until Christmas Eve when I start with the big dinner!

I ended up spending $15 on the dang granddog! I liked these two toys and couldn't decide on which one so I bought both and then got him a raw hide bone to chew on while we eat dinner. I know-I'm such a sucker! They better bring him now!

[Grandma Gail]

Ken went back to work today. He is having a hard time not drinking 6 - 8 cups of coffee every day. He is tired but glad to get back to work. DD seems to have the flu:(. DGS and I seem to be all right but keeping fingers crossed. We are having the family here for Christmas dinner. Haven't wrapped the first present:rolleyes:. I guess I am waiting for the wrapping fairy. House has been decorated inside and out for a few weeks. Hope you all are doing great! :) OMG - I just noticed we are under 90 days to sailing.

[Cruznation]

Ken went back to work today. He is having a hard time not drinking 6 - 8 cups of coffee every day. He is tired but glad to get back to work. DD seems to have the flu:(. DGS and I seem to be all right but keeping fingers crossed. We are having the family here for Christmas dinner. Haven't wrapped the first present:rolleyes:. I guess I am waiting for the wrapping fairy. House has been decorated inside and out for a few weeks. Hope you all are doing great! :) OMG - I just noticed we are under 90 days to sailing.

I don't know if it will work for Ken, but I used to drink a lot of coffee and after my milk kept souring I learned to drink it black. After I got heart problems I moved to decaf, but French Roast decaff made strong. Decaf espresso is even better if you have a machine. So I still drink coffee, but no caffeine. I even moved to decaf iced tea. Takes some getting used to, but you gotta do what ya gotta do.. Give him my best, Gail.

[dixieva]

I've been doing decaf everything for years. Coffee, tea and sodas. I do admit to drinking regular coffee in the morning-only 1 or 2 cups. Everything else is decaf. Now I really can't tell much difference in the taste of things.

Glad Ken is back to work!

[dixieva]

Before things get any more hectic just let me say to all of you------







http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l303/Steppyville/gingerbread_man_waving_behind_si-1.gif

To the greatest bunch of cruise friends!

It's a priviledge to know you all and I look forward to sharing many more cruises with you in the future!!

[cruzette]

I don't know if it will work for Ken, but I used to drink a lot of coffee and after my milk kept souring I learned to drink it black. After I got heart problems I moved to decaf, but French Roast decaff made strong. Decaf espresso is even better if you have a machine. So I still drink coffee, but no caffeine. I even moved to decaf iced tea. Takes some getting used to, but you gotta do what ya gotta do.. Give him my best, Gail.
HI EVERYONE!!

Diane is a coffee/caffeine junky. Her doctor told her that some decaf coffees/teas have MORE caffeine that the regular...just beware!!! Drink water w/a twist of lemon...much better for you.

Gail...so happy Ken is doing better. Pls give him our love!!

Merry hugs and kisses to all our wonderful friends...may the new year bring you good health and happiness!!!!

[TH451]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_2tECt5aOLQ8/TREpDzBGOPI/AAAAAAAABOg/UcGEipD5o3I/s1600/CaribbeanChristmas.jpg

Feliz Navidad....Joyeux Noel....Mele Kalikimaka....Buone Feste Natalizie

No matter the language, I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas.

[cruzette]

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_2tECt5aOLQ8/TREpDzBGOPI/AAAAAAAABOg/UcGEipD5o3I/s1600/CaribbeanChristmas.jpg

Feliz Navidad....Joyeux Noel....Mele Kalikimaka....Buone Feste Natalizie

No matter the language, I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas.

Just for you, Tommy....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QycT9GA4fOE

(never too soon to start training!)

[Cruznation]

http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s4/karsmi123/ch/ch1101.gif (http://www.satisfaction.com/codes/merry-christmas-comments-1.php)

Have a Merry Christmas, everyone!

[TH451]

Just for you, Tommy....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QycT9GA4fOE

(never too soon to start training!)

Brings back memories of Desmond in Boleros Lounge & Schooner Bar. Thanks Georgia for the hearty laugh. You're so right.....never too soon.:)

[cruzette]

Wishing all my wonderful cruising friends a beautiful and joyous Christmas and a fabulous 2012. Can't wait to party hard in 2012 with you all!

[2crusin]

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ7T1rVDf6c0jkkK-RRwU6XccNDXRVKhuUsdLCz1VTbITv3f1b16Q

to all our Cruise Critice Friends
:)

[cruzette]

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQ7T1rVDf6c0jkkK-RRwU6XccNDXRVKhuUsdLCz1VTbITv3f1b16Q

to all our Cruise Critice Friends
:)
There must be slot of excitement in the terminal today. Hope you and Skip are e enjoying being Santa's Hellers today.

[dixieva]

Taking a break! House smells like baked ham-yum!

I have friends who are boarding the ship in Baltimore today for a Christmas cruise. Sort of wish I was with them! Not really-I like having Christmas at home.

Company will here soon! Gotta go get dressed.

Merry Christmas Eve everyone!

[DELTABLUE]

From our house to yours...

http://www.orkutwishes.com/graphics/christmas_graphics/christmas_06.gif
Here's wishing you and yours the Merriest of Christmases
and all the best for a healthy and happy 2012!

[DELTABLUE]

Toes and eyes too! I also have a friend scheduled to board Enchantment today. She was fighting some health problems that I hope were resolved in time for her to make the cruise.;)

Though I have never done a holiday cruise, we used to do the ones before the official one. It was beautiful the way they had the ships decorated. Really put the spirit in you. :D

[Grandma Gail]

Wanted to add our Best Wishes for the Merriest of Christmases! I better start wrapping really soon!

[2crusin]

There must be slot of excitement in the terminal today. Hope you and Skip are e enjoying being Santa's Hellers today.


was so crazy busy - the guest were so happy esp the children !
tomorrow we were told that a special guest would be coming for a visit ! :D should be an interesting day to say the least ...
Enchantment brought a beautful huge sheet cake for the terminal employees this morning......,so yummy ...
hope carnival is docked on time tomorrow

[cruzette]

was so crazy busy - the guest were so happy esp the children !
tomorrow we were told that a special guest would be coming for a visit ! :D should be an interesting day to say the least ...
Enchantment brought a beautful huge sheet cake for the terminal employees this morning......,so yummy ...
hope carnival is docked on time tomorrow

How wonderful of the Enchantment! Tis the season...and heaven knows, without you all in the terminal, there would be no Enchantment.

Have a beautiful day!

Do you know yet if you will be working on 28 Jan? Thats when we will be at the Port next.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

[cruzette]

Rise and shine to a beautiful day!! My tree is lit, house smells of cinnamon, orange and pine and I'm sitting here playing with the toy I bought myself...a new computer! :p Can't wait for sleepy head :eek: to get up so we can check out the rest of the tree! ;):D

We wish you all love, good health and happiness!!!!...and more cruises!! :D

[dixieva]

Well Santa has come and gone for us and everything was wonderful! Everyone loved all of their gifts and the granddog was in heaven:D! He loved his two new toys and he decided to take it upon himself to shred all of the wrapping paper that was thrown around during the frenzy of opening gifts. He was so funny-didn't eat any of it-just looked like a doggy shredder! What a mess and what fun!

Now today is for taking it easy and Kelly and I are going to the movies this afternoon to see "We Bought a Zoo". Heard it was great.

Hope all of you have a joyous Christmas Day!

[2crusin]

How wonderful of the Enchantment! Tis the season...and heaven knows, without you all in the terminal, there would be no Enchantment.

Have a beautiful day!

Do you know yet if you will be working on 28 Jan? Thats when we will be at the Port next.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

yep we will be there

[2crusin]

Time to head to work.....
Merry Christmas...:D

[geojobes]

Merry Christmas to everyone!

I just had to stop by to say hello to my cruisin' buddies. Lisa & I are doing well, but we have no cruises scheduled. We've been busy getting our house ready to sell & finding a home in NC. We just can't keeping paying most of our salaries on property taxes. Especially since I haven't had a raise since 2007, but my property taxes are up 35%.

Hope everone is having a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. Also, I hope to sail with you all again.

George & Lisa

[cruzette]

Then we will see you as we check in...

[cruzette]

Merry Christmas to everyone!

I just had to stop by to say hello to my cruisin' buddies. Lisa & I are doing well, but we have no cruises scheduled. We've been busy getting our house ready to sell & finding a home in NC. We just can't keeping paying most of our salaries on property taxes. Especially since I haven't had a raise since 2007, but my property taxes are up 35%.

Hope everone is having a very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. Also, I hope to sail with you all again.

George & Lisa
We look forward to sailing with you again soon. Good luck with the sale then the move. Merry Christmas

[dixieva]

George-how great to hear from you! Say hi to Lisa for me! Glad you are doing well. I can't wait until you get moved and settled in so you can sail with us again! Keep in mind April 1, 2013 Enchantment from Baltimore 12 days. We're going to book that one while on board in March.

Merry Christmas to you and your family!

[Living in MD]

Merry Christmas Everyone!!!!

[prekteacher1]

Maybe this has already been addressed, but I haven't taken the time to read all the old posts... but how many formal nights will there be on this cruise?
Also, does anyone know a link to see the daily guide they leave in your cabin each night? I can't remember what it is called.
Do they ever have happy hour or is it just the drink of the day special?
I'm trying to remember if they have a martini class with RCI... or a wine tasting? Just trying to find some fun things to do while on board.
Thanks in advance for answering my questions!

[Cruznation]

Maybe this has already been addressed, but I haven't taken the time to read all the old posts... but how many formal nights will there be on this cruise?
Also, does anyone know a link to see the daily guide they leave in your cabin each night? I can't remember what it is called.
Do they ever have happy hour or is it just the drink of the day special?
I'm trying to remember if they have a martini class with RCI... or a wine tasting? Just trying to find some fun things to do while on board.
Thanks in advance for answering my questions!

Let's see... I remember 3 formal nights on the 12 day cruise.

Here on CC there is a thread about links to the Cruise Compass newsletters,
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=364105

Happy Hours depend on how often you have sailed with RCCL. Diamond plus and above pax have a lounge with free drinks. Diamond pax have a nightly event between 5 and 8pm with free beer and wine that is more or less a Happy Hour. Otherwise, there is just the drink of the day. There are always the Captain's Gala and the Welcome Back party which are a form of Happy Hour as well with drinks and snacks.

There are events like Martini, champagne, and single malt tastings in whatever venue for a set price. They have wine tastings too. The sample Cruise Compasses will show you what they usually have. Look for ones from the Enchantment.

[prekteacher1]

Let's see... I remember 3 formal nights on the 12 day cruise.

Here on CC there is a thread about links to the Cruise Compass newsletters,
http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=364105

Happy Hours depend on how often you have sailed with RCCL. Diamond plus and above pax have a lounge with free drinks. Diamond pax have a nightly event between 5 and 8pm with free beer and wine that is more or less a Happy Hour. Otherwise, there is just the drink of the day. There are always the Captain's Gala and the Welcome Back party which are a form of Happy Hour as well with drinks and snacks.

There are events like Martini, champagne, and single malt tastings in whatever venue for a set price. They have wine tastings too. The sample Cruise Compasses will show you what they usually have. Look for ones from the Enchantment.
Thank you so much for the information. I'll go look at the Cruise Compass to see what I can glean from those!

[Grandma Gail]

Ok, Christmas is over, time to start taking down all this stuff! If I start now I may get it all put away before our cruise. Just kidding, just taking some of it down so I can out some new things out. Cold, cold rain. Wish it were snow.

Dixie, how was the movie?

Any new people out there joining us on this cruise?:)

[dixieva]

Gail the movie was great! We laughed, then cried then laughed again. It is really not a kid's movie. There was some language in there that I wouldn't want my little kids to hear. But it was a good movie for adults. And that Leonardo-he's sooooo cute!

I started taking my decorations down also. Tree is still up but not for long.

Made my final payment today! Had not received any notice of the due date so checked it on line and it was due by Jan. 4th. so went ahead and paid. I will be so ready for this cruise!

Hey is anyone interested in another pre-cruise dinner? We will be staying in Bowie the night before the cruise and it was fun when we got a group together last year. Maybe we can do it again!

[prekteacher1]

Is anyone doing the park and cruise deal at a hotel? Which one have you used? Is the shuttle adequate. For a 12 day cruise, parking at the terminal would cost more than a room at a hotel that offers free parking. Thoughts or advice anyone???

[Grandma Gail]

Is anyone doing the park and cruise deal at a hotel? Which one have you used? Is the shuttle adequate. For a 12 day cruise, parking at the terminal would cost more than a room at a hotel that offers free parking. Thoughts or advice anyone???
Check out this site: http://www.cruise.maryland.gov/content/hotels

[2crusin]

OMG.... t Hold on to your hats....
he winds howling today :eek:

[Living in MD]

The winds are really blowing here too!!!! I work in an old building with a revolving front door. The wind is blowing so hard, it's blowing the door the wrong way and it sounds like a ghost moaning....... :eek:

[Grandma Gail]

Ken came home early to take down the outside decorations because they are blowing all over the place! Need some nice warm sun.

[prekteacher1]

At the rate that the wind is blowing here, I won't have to take any decorations down.. the wind will blow them all down. Already lost two greenery arrangements that were hanging on the lights and the basket of lights and greenery blew off the porch! Guess that's winter in the Mid Atlantic for you!:)

[Cruznation]

Called up our reservation today and saw that things are ready for filling out. Guess I really have to start thinking about excursions now. :rolleyes:

[pegwalker55]

Hi
Hubby and I just booked last night.Can't wait!

[2crusin]

Hi
Hubby and I just booked last night.Can't wait!


welcome aboard

[2crusin]

Called up our reservation today and saw that things are ready for filling out. Guess I really have to start thinking about excursions now. :rolleyes:


Printed our doc last night & booked an excursion for St Thomas the other day..so ready for this cruise !

[dixieva]

What are you doing in St. Thomas? We've been there so many times that we're considering making this a stay on board day. Well, might check out the shops at the pier first-HA! We even went over to St. John's once when we docked in St. Thomas. That was great by the way! Did it on our own and saved a lot of money over the ship excursion to St. John.

Took down the last of the Christmas decorations today so now I can concentrate on the cruise!

[Grandma Gail]

Our grass is covered with the white stuff. DGS is ready to go out and make a snowman:rolleyes:.

Hi Peg and hubby. Welcome! Check out the last Roll Call on page 73 and if interested send me your information to be included!

In fact, if everyone would check the Roll Call and see if I have your information correct (spelling, names, cabin #, state, dinning times. Thanks

Decorations are all down. Like you, Dixie, I can now concentrate on this cruise. A cruise that can't get here soon enough.

[2crusin]

What are you doing in St. Thomas? We've been there so many times that we're considering making this a stay on board day. Well, might check out the shops at the pier first-HA! We even went over to St. John's once when we docked in St. Thomas. That was great by the way! Did it on our own and saved a lot of money over the ship excursion to St. John.

Took down the last of the Christmas decorations today so now I can concentrate on the cruise!


We are going on a sailboat called "Bones".. sail - snokle & have a BBQ lunch on the beach it is a 6 hr exucrsion.. We've gone on this before & enjoyed it so much .... saw lots of sea turtles...

[dixieva]

Hi
Hubby and I just booked last night.Can't wait!


Welcome! Glad to have you join us. Don't forget to register for our Meet and Mingle Party!

[2crusin]

Our grass is covered with the white stuff. DGS is ready to go out and make a snowman:rolleyes:.

Hi Peg and hubby. Welcome! Check out the last Roll Call on page 73 and if interested send me your information to be included!

In fact, if everyone would check the Roll Call and see if I have your information correct (spelling, names, cabin #, state, dinning times. Thanks

Decorations are all down. Like you, Dixie, I can now concentrate on this cruise. A cruise that can't get here soon enough.


No snow here ... we are heading to Skip's mom's for dinner his aunt & uncle are coming up from Va.
Tomorrow we have the bus trip - lights at Merriwether ! :D

[dixieva]

We are going on a sailboat called "Bones".. sail - snokle & have a BBQ lunch on the beach it is a 6 hr exucrsion.. We've gone on this before & enjoyed it so much .... saw lots of sea turtles...

That sounds like fun!

[dixieva]

Huh??? It's doing the "S" word?? If you don't mind, keep it up there please:D!

[Cruznation]

What's your hubby's name?

Welcome and feel free to chat, we're a friendly group!

[TH451]

Hi
Hubby and I just booked last night.Can't wait!


Welcome aboard Peg, glad to have you with us.

[pegwalker55]

Hubby's name is Les,have late sitting for dinner.No cabin number yet.We're from the Mid Hudson Valley in New York

[ceslpn]

I printed our Set Sail Pass today...It makes it so more official! Are we doing a gift exchange, cabin crawl or slot pull this time? I think everyone enjoyed those last year. I am so excited I don't think I can sleep tonight so I am going to look at excursions..Anyone have any suggestions? :)

[cruzette]

Welcome to all the newbies...looking forward to sailing with everyone!

Spent the entire day yesterday taking tree and all decorations down. They are packed and safely placed back in the shed...now the rest of the shed needs to be straightened out.

We're cruising at the end of January so we REALLY need to get our act together. Luggage tags and paperwork arrived the other day, suitcases out and now need to go thru the clothes we have been stuffing in there since the last cruise. GOOD GRIEF...there is so much to do just so you can have a vacation...then start all over again. Still trying to figure out what we want to do in the Bahamas...while working on the March cruise at the same time. Decisions, decisions.

Everyone have a wonderful day!!

[cruzette]

Yahoo! We're booked on the "Bones" Christmas Island excursion in St. Thomas. :D Does anyone know how difficult the walk is to the Virgin Gorda Baths in Tortola? I have a bad knee so just wondering if I should chance it...any advice would be greatly appreciated. :o:confused:

[dixieva]

I'm planning a slot pull! Maybe on our first sea day. I think the casino does a slot tournement in the afternoon so maybe we can do the slot pull in the morning sometime.

I haven't filled out our documents yet. It sure would be nice if they could somehow save all of our information and we could just go in and edit anything that had changed. Sigh-oh well:rolleyes:!

My brothers and sisters are getting together today for our annual Christmas lunch. Looking forward to visiting with them. I have 2 brothers and 3 sisters so it's always fun to see them.

[dixieva]

We did Virgin Gorda on our own in Tortola. It was quite a long walk from the pier to the ferry. I'm not good with distances but I think it took us about 20 minutes. Once you get over there the walk down to the beach is not too bad. You can stop to rest along the way. Now going back up was much more difficult. It's rocky but not very steep just long! I guess it depends on how bad your knee problems are. There is a nice restuarant at the top of the hill with a great view where you can sit and wait for those who walk down. The ferry ride over was also very scenic.

[cruzette]

We did Virgin Gorda on our own in Tortola. It was quite a long walk from the pier to the ferry. I'm not good with distances but I think it took us about 20 minutes. Once you get over there the walk down to the beach is not too bad. You can stop to rest along the way. Now going back up was much more difficult. It's rocky but not very steep just long! I guess it depends on how bad your knee problems are. There is a nice restuarant at the top of the hill with a great view where you can sit and wait for those who walk down. The ferry ride over was also very scenic.
Thanks Dixie. The knee is being replaced in July (no time to do it any earlier). Have to be ready for that grandbaby in Sept!

Hopefully we can plan a pre-cruise gathering!

[Grandma Gail]

Grandama Gail . . . . . Gail & Ken . . . . . . . . .. . 8540 . . . . . .Early . . . . MD
2crusin. . . . . . . . . . . . Barb & Skip. . . . . . . . . .8092 . . . . . Early . . . . MD
ceslpn . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl & Anthony. . . . . 7666 . . . . . .Early. . . . . PA
Janet524. . . . . . . . . . .Janet & Dick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
atb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PA
roscoegirl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8170 . . . . . . . . . . E Coast
cruzette . . . . . . . . . . . Georgia & Diane . . . . . .4586 . . . . . .Early . . . .MD
dixieva . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7166. . . . . .Early . . . .VA
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early. . . .
wrkfire911 . . . . . . . . . Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7166 . . . . . . Early . . . .VA
TH451 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandra & Tommy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruznation . . . . . . . . . .Kathy & Ed . . . . . . . . . 4584 . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruisinforabrusin79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
Living In MD . . . . . . . . .Deb & Chuck . . . . . . . . 3084 . . . . . . Early . . . .MD
DELTABLUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
shelovescruisising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YouSnoozeYouLose . .Janice & Rick . . . . . . . .7656. . . . . . .Early. . ..VA
Thecanvasback . . . . . .Sherry & Christian . . . 3116. . . . . . Late. . . . . . .MD
cheric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cheri & Gary . . . . . . . . 7136. . . . . . . Early. . MD
chargeit2him. . . . . . . . . Sandy & Lou . . . . . . . . 3124 . . . . . . . Early . . . . . PA
prekteacher1 . . . . . . . . .Susan & Kinter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
bchescpMD. . . . . . . . . . . .Melanie & Marianne. . .3624 . . . . Early . . . MD

pegwalker55 . . . . . . . . . . . . Peg & Les . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Late. . . . NY

Please send any additional info/corrections to: grandmagailhornig@gmail.com (grandmagailhornig@gmail.com) Also, please send me your names for I can make up the name tags for the Meet & Mingle.

[Grandma Gail]

:)I'm planning a slot pull! Maybe on our first sea day. I think the casino does a slot tournement in the afternoon so maybe we can do the slot pull in the morning sometime.

I haven't filled out our documents yet. It sure would be nice if they could somehow save all of our information and we could just go in and edit anything that had changed. Sigh-oh well:rolleyes:!

My brothers and sisters are getting together today for our annual Christmas lunch. Looking forward to visiting with them. I have 2 brothers and 3 sisters so it's always fun to see them.
Ok let's start getting a list of activities and a person in charge.

Dixie - you want to be in charge of the Slot Pull and Shuffleboard?

Barb, Georgia, Diane, and Gail for the Gift Exchange at the Meet and Mingle? (ok girls?)

For those who have never attended a Meet and Mingle. This is a get together for Cruise Critic Members. Get a chance to put faces with the screen names. Refreshments are served and a staff member from RCCL hosts the M& M. Usually it is held the first sea day and those who have registered should get an invitation in their cabin. In the past it has been fun to have a Gift Exchange at the Meet and Mingle. Those who want to participate bring a gift (value $10.00), usually something from your home area. Some games may be played and prizes awarded. It is just a great time to Meet & Mingle.

Ed - you want to be in charge of the Cabin Crawl? This is a chance to see many different categories of cabins. After the Meet and Mingle we all start to crawl to the cabins that have been offered to be shown. So if you would like to show your cabin let Ed (cruznation) know if he consents to be in charge. I volunteer our Cabin 8540!

This group always wears Madi Gra or some other type of Beads around our neck to identify ourselves as the "Bead Brigade"

Any other ideas out there?

[dixieva]

Gail I'll plan the slot pull. I don't know a thing about shuffleboard but I've always wanted to play. I'll see what I can find out about that once I'm on board and we'll find a time to do it.

For the slot pull those who want to participate meet in the casino and we pick out a machine-usually we try to find a dollar machine with a $2 max bet so our money will last a little longer. We decide on an amount maybe $10 or $20 per person. Put it all into the machine. Take turns spinning until the money is gone or doubled-whichever comes first. If we double it we cash out and divide the money. Then some of us will put more money in and do it all again and some take the money and run:D! It's a fun time.

We usually eat breakfast in the dining room the first sea day. In the past we have set a time and anyone who wants to have breakfast together meet at the entrance to the dining room and go in together so we can get one big table or if needed two tables. We are early risers so we will be there at 8 a.m. Just show up in you want to! For those who like to sleep in maybe you could plan a late shift:)!

[Cruznation]

OK, I'll handle the cabin crawl.
Yes, the best time to hold this is right after the Meet & Mingle when we are all gathered together. Postponing it just makes it a mess later.

So far we have Gail & Ken's cabin 8540. What kind of cabin is that, Gail?
We would ideally like to have an inside cabin, an outside cabin, a balcony, and a couple of different types of suites. Any volunteers?

[dixieva]

Does anyone know the rules to shuffleboard that could help out with that? Or we could always make up our own rules. :eek::D That's always fun.

I seem to remember that we were going to do the cabin crawl after the M & M last cruise but something else was going on that some of us wanted to do so we did it another time. Just sayin'. We might want to have a plan "B' in case that happens again.

Another good reason for everyone to give Gail your cabin number so we can keep everyone informed of our planned activities and any changes that will need to be made along the way.

[Grandma Gail]

OK, I'll handle the cabin crawl.
Yes, the best time to hold this is right after the Meet & Mingle when we are all gathered together. Postponing it just makes it a mess later.

So far we have Gail & Ken's cabin 8540. What kind of cabin is that, Gail?
We would ideally like to have an inside cabin, an outside cabin, a balcony, and a couple of different types of suites. Any volunteers?
Ed - we are ina Grand Suite

[Living in MD]

:)
Ok let's start getting a list of activities and a person in charge.

Dixie - you want to be in charge of the Slot Pull and Shuffleboard?

Barb, Georgia, Diane, and Gail for the Gift Exchange at the Meet and Mingle? (ok girls?)

For those who have never attended a Meet and Mingle. This is a get together for Cruise Critic Members. Get a chance to put faces with the screen names. Refreshments are served and a staff member from RCCL hosts the M& M. Usually it is held the first sea day and those who have registered should get an invitation in their cabin. In the past it has been fun to have a Gift Exchange at the Meet and Mingle. Those who want to participate bring a gift (value $10.00), usually something from your home area. Some games may be played and prizes awarded. It is just a great time to Meet & Mingle.

Ed - you want to be in charge of the Cabin Crawl? This is a chance to see many different categories of cabins. After the Meet and Mingle we all start to crawl to the cabins that have been offered to be shown. So if you would like to show your cabin let Ed (cruznation) know if he consents to be in charge. I volunteer our Cabin 8540!

This group always wears Madi Gra or some other type of Beads around our neck to identify ourselves as the "Bead Brigade"

Any other ideas out there?


Gail, I've got the name tags again!!

[Living in MD]

Just stopping in to wish everyone a Happy New Year!! Be safe!!!!!

[cruzette]

Gail, Diane and I will be happy to help with the gift exchange.

Dixie, count us in for breakfast at 8.

Ed, you know where we are on the ship :D. We will be happy to share our ocean view.

It will be strange cruising in a few weeks without you all. Our January roll call is pretty much a sleeper compared to the one in March...what a wonderful group we have!

HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone! :p:D

[DELTABLUE]

http://www.zwani.com/graphics/new_years/images/xnewyear56tf.gif

With all best wishes for health and happiness in the new year!

[cruzette]

It is 5:45am and a cruise ship is on her way home...coming in close to two hours late. I'll bet they had a rip roaring party welcoming 2012!

Good morning everyone and welcome to a new year. :D

[dixieva]

http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h451/shymartinez1/HAPPY%20NEW%20YEAR/happy-new-year-0982.gif

Wishing you all a wonderful 2012 filled with health, happiness and lots of cruises!

[Cruznation]

http://images.zwani.com/graphics/new_years/images/93newyears7.gif

[Cruznation]

I seem to remember that we were going to do the cabin crawl after the M & M last cruise but something else was going on that some of us wanted to do so we did it another time. Just sayin'. We might want to have a plan "B' in case that happens again.

I hear you, Dixie.

I remember that a slot tournament got scheduled after the M&M. We rescheduled it and it ended up during another slot event and I had to reschedule it yet again using the bulletin board.

Flat out, it was a hassle. Some of the folks who volunteered cabins didn't keep up with the notices on the bulletin board so we had to get volunteer cabins on the fly from the folks that showed up. Embarrassing. :eek:

No. The best time for the cabin crawl is right after the M&M when we are all gathered together. Life is full of hard decisions, but this is the best option for all those volunteering their cabins. It's only fair that they be given a hard time and date.

I'm sorry to be inflexible, but there are always going to be event conflicts. I got a lot of complaints about the "constant postponing" last time. Complaints which, quite frankly, I didn't need. I was trying to be accommodating, but I ended up displeasing more folks than I made happy. :(

So I hope you understand. :)

[Living in MD]

Ed,

I thought the cabin crawl was wonderful!! I'm sorry you had people complaining, none of it was within your control.

[dixieva]

No problem Ed! I had no idea that there were complaints last time. I didn't hear any. I thought the crawl went great and was quite fun! So sorry you were given a hard time. I was going to put our room on the crawl list (we're in a corner aft JS) but I will hold off on that just in case something else comes up that will prevent us from participating.

[TH451]

http://blogmedia.allinclusiveoutlet.com/hottime2012caribbean.JPG

Can you believe it's 2012? It seems like only yesterday, it was 2011.;):D

Happy New Year to us all.:)

[Cruznation]

Understood and appreciated!

Comments were mostly from folks who missed it because they didn't read the bulletin board. I even called all the folks who vvolunteered cabins, but either they lost interest or didn't know how to retrieve messages on their cabin phones.

I really sincerely thank you for understanding. Considering the time of the M&M the time following it should be reserved for lunch! :D

[dixieva]

Hey it's a cruise, I'm doing my most favorite thing in the whole world (being on the water!) so I going to be very happy for 12 days:D!

I know this cruise will be full of fun filled activities and I hope to be able to participate in them all.

Heck, we might even play some of the trivia games this time:eek:! Better watch out-we might give you a run for your money.

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

:)
Ok let's start getting a list of activities and a person in charge.

Dixie - you want to be in charge of the Slot Pull and Shuffleboard?

Barb, Georgia, Diane, and Gail for the Gift Exchange at the Meet and Mingle? (ok girls?)

For those who have never attended a Meet and Mingle. This is a get together for Cruise Critic Members. Get a chance to put faces with the screen names. Refreshments are served and a staff member from RCCL hosts the M& M. Usually it is held the first sea day and those who have registered should get an invitation in their cabin. In the past it has been fun to have a Gift Exchange at the Meet and Mingle. Those who want to participate bring a gift (value $10.00), usually something from your home area. Some games may be played and prizes awarded. It is just a great time to Meet & Mingle.

Ed - you want to be in charge of the Cabin Crawl? This is a chance to see many different categories of cabins. After the Meet and Mingle we all start to crawl to the cabins that have been offered to be shown. So if you would like to show your cabin let Ed (cruznation) know if he consents to be in charge. I volunteer our Cabin 8540!

This group always wears Madi Gra or some other type of Beads around our neck to identify ourselves as the "Bead Brigade"

Any other ideas out there?


We have never been to a Meet & Mingle; it sounds like fun!! Where do we sign up?

We were signed up for a Meet & Mingle on a cruise last year, but had to cancel the cruise due to a death in the family. On that cruise we signed up on Cruise Fellows, but I note it isn't on there for this cruise.

Thanks!

[Grandma Gail]

Just go to the right hand corner of this page and there will be a spot to click and then register.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!!!!

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

Just go to the right hand corner of this page and there will be a spot to click and then register.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE!!!!


Thanks, Gail!

I had just scrolled up to log off, and saw the link. I signed us up!

We look forward to meeting you all!

[cruzette]

We have never been to a Meet & Mingle; it sounds like fun!! Where do we sign up?

We were signed up for a Meet & Mingle on a cruise last year, but had to cancel the cruise due to a death in the family. On that cruise we signed up on Cruise Fellows, but I note it isn't on there for this cruise.

Thanks!
Ed set up
cruise Fellows for this trip some time ago...just checked and it is still there. Let me know if you are not able to find it.

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

Ed set up
cruise Fellows for this trip some time ago...just checked and it is still there. Let me know if you are not able to find it.


Thanks. What I meant to say is that on that cruise, we had to go to Cruise Fellows to sign up for the Meet & Greet, so that's where I looked this time. It's much easier to do the way you guys do it.....not so much back and forth! ;):D

[cruzette]

We had DGD and DGS for the past two days. They fell in love with our Wii Dance Just Dance "ABBA". We had a blast...and many good workouts! Stopped by Cheesecake Factory after we took them home to pick up dessert to go with our lobsters tonight...red velvet cheesecake and a wonderfully deep dark chocolate cake cheesecake. OMG! There goes all my hard work preparing for my next Chops adventure! :eek:

[Grandma Gail]

We had DGD and DGS for the past two days. They fell in love with our Wii Dance Just Dance "ABBA". We had a blast...and many good workouts! Stopped by Cheesecake Factory after we took them home to pick up dessert to go with our lobsters tonight...red velvet cheesecake and a wonderfully deep dark chocolate cake cheesecake. OMG! There goes all my hard work preparing for my next Chops adventure! :eek:
Sounds delicious! Our DGS just loves the Wii Dance.

[Living in MD]

Ok, final payment made, Sea Pass printed now where do I order the luggage tags? We So need this vacation!!! :p

[Grandma Gail]

I was looking at some of the other threads and came across one about "RCCL's Crystal Blocks". We received a beautiful crystal "block" last cruise on Enchantment congratulating us on 140 points. I had never heard of this and thought maybe it was in place of our "Diamond" pin since we had never received a pin for any of the levels. It is really nice.216986 I borrowed this picture from Patti - cruisenfever.

DEB - For your luggage tags go under your cruise documentation and there will be a place to order the tags when the time is right.

[Cruznation]

I was looking at some of the other threads and came across one about "RCCL's Crystal Blocks". We received a beautiful crystal "block" last cruise on Enchantment congratulating us on 140 points. I had never heard of this and thought maybe it was in place of our "Diamond" pin since we had never received a pin for any of the levels. It is really nice.216986 I borrowed this picture from Patti - cruisenfever.

Gail,
We've gotten pins for Emerald and Diamond. Call the Crown & Anchor Society and let them know. Your diamond pin will show up in cabin on your next cruise.

[Grandma Gail]

Ship captains are notoriously understated in their weather forecasting. You know what we mean if you’ve ever sailed in foul weather: “You may feel the ship moving a bit” in the captain’s daily address probably means “The waves are going to be enormous and lots of you will be seasick.” So how are you supposed to know when it’s gonna be a bumpy one?


1. During the day, you hear the maitre d’ quietly instructing the waiters to chain down the tables in the dining room for dinner.
2. Sick bags appear at strategic locations throughout the ship.
3. All deck furniture is cleared away and lashed down and the hot tubs are emptied.
4. Rumors begin to fly around the ship: “So-and-so overheard a crew member saying it was going to be ‘horrendous.’”
5. The ship is bouncing around ominously, even though it’s still alongside, tied up.
6. The following day’s port of call is cancelled as it’s too “exposed.”
7. The advertised dinner menu changes suddenly to something comforting like plain steaks and chicken soup.
8. The cocktail of the day is an ironic Dark and Stormy.
9. Seasick pills are given out like free candy at the reception desk.
10. You pop up on deck before sailing to see what’s going on and you see the captain staring pensively out to sea.

Of course, the captain will come clean with a proper safety warning just before sailing if it’s going to get really bad. And look on the bright side. Although being seasick is horrible and no joke, you can dine out on storm stories for many happy cruises to come.

[Living in MD]

Ship captains are notoriously understated in their weather forecasting. You know what we mean if you’ve ever sailed in foul weather: “You may feel the ship moving a bit” in the captain’s daily address probably means “The waves are going to be enormous and lots of you will be seasick.” So how are you supposed to know when it’s gonna be a bumpy one?


1. During the day, you hear the maitre d’ quietly instructing the waiters to chain down the tables in the dining room for dinner.
2. Sick bags appear at strategic locations throughout the ship.
3. All deck furniture is cleared away and lashed down and the hot tubs are emptied.
4. Rumors begin to fly around the ship: “So-and-so overheard a crew member saying it was going to be ‘horrendous.’”
5. The ship is bouncing around ominously, even though it’s still alongside, tied up.
6. The following day’s port of call is cancelled as it’s too “exposed.”
7. The advertised dinner menu changes suddenly to something comforting like plain steaks and chicken soup.
8. The cocktail of the day is an ironic Dark and Stormy.
9. Seasick pills are given out like free candy at the reception desk.
10. You pop up on deck before sailing to see what’s going on and you see the captain staring pensively out to sea.

Of course, the captain will come clean with a proper safety warning just before sailing if it’s going to get really bad. And look on the bright side. Although being seasick is horrible and no joke, you can dine out on storm stories for many happy cruises to come.


We had the opposite on our October Cruise on EOS, the Captain announced first thing Tuesday morning that when we left Bermuda at 3 pm that day, we were heading into a Gale with 45 mph winds and 25-30 foot seas :eek:.

Our waiter told us that night at dinner if the weather got that bad, they would close the upper decks and everyone would need to eat their meals in the dining room or call room service. Everyone worked themselves up preparing and then the weather was no where near as bad as predicted.

[GRANNYOFSIX]

Hi Grandma Gail.....my husband Joe and I (Laura) will be on the Enchantment with you! Looking forward to dancing, relaxing and enjoying spending time with my husband in nice warm weather!!! Only 35 degrees here today in VA Beach!!!!!

[Grandma Gail]

Hi Grandma Gail.....my husband Joe and I (Laura) will be on the Enchantment with you! Looking forward to dancing, relaxing and enjoying spending time with my husband in nice warm weather!!! Only 35 degrees here today in VA Beach!!!!!
Welcome Aboard Laura & Joe. You must be in a heat wave down at the beach. Our wind chill is 14 degrees! Check out the last Roll Call and send me your information if you want to be included. Also, check out the next post (1562) and that will give you a list of activities that have been planned.

[Grandma Gail]

Hi Grandma Gail.....my husband Joe and I (Laura) will be on the Enchantment with you! Looking forward to dancing, relaxing and enjoying spending time with my husband in nice warm weather!!! Only 35 degrees here today in VA Beach!!!!!
P.S. Don't forget to sign up for the Meet & Mingle.

[Cruznation]

Hi Grandma Gail.....my husband Joe and I (Laura) will be on the Enchantment with you! Looking forward to dancing, relaxing and enjoying spending time with my husband in nice warm weather!!! Only 35 degrees here today in VA Beach!!!!!

Welcome aboard, Laura & Joe!

[Living in MD]

Hey Laura and Joe, Welcome Aboard!!!

[TH451]

Welcome Laura & Joe.

[dixieva]

Welcome to the newbies!

A while back I asked if anyone would be interested in a tour of Antigua with Lawrence of Antigua. I have a few people so far:

My party of 3
Ed and Kathy
Gail and Ken
Diane and Gloria
Chuck and Deb

Total of 11 so far. I have sent him an e-mail to get a ball park price (he will need to have the number of people to give me the actual price.) I think it will run $30 to $40 per person but that is a guess. We're looking at a 3 to 4 hour tour of the island to include a stop of around 30 minutes for shopping. We will start the tour early at 8:30 if we arrive on time at 8 a.m. The tour will not include a stop for lunch however if you are interested in eating lunch locally I'm sure our tour guide would drop you at a restuarant close to the ship but you will have to get your own taxi back to the ship after lunch. Most of us want to go back to the ship for lunch.

I did a tour with this company several years ago and it was great. If you would like to check out his web site it is Lawrence of Antigua dot com. On that tour the price included rum punch or a non-alcoholic drink.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you are interested in this tour so I can go ahead and book it.

Also I have informed him that we will need a comfortable vehicle. I hate having to climb over seats in a van but I think we will have enough for a small bus.

[dixieva]

Oopsie! I meant Diane and Georgia not Gloria! Sorry about that-I prefer to think my fingers were on the wrong keys instead of the alternative-(that I had a Senior Moment:eek::D).

[cruzette]

That's ok Dixie...Gloria is among my many names (Ginger, Gloria, Alabama...and a few others). Give the bill to Gloria and she will pay it

[dixieva]

that's ok dixie...gloria is among my many names (ginger, gloria, alabama...and a few others). Give the bill to gloria and she will pay it



Okey Dokey!

[Grandma Gail]

My other main activity today was to go along to the Captain’s Corner in the theatre, which was well attended. The panel consisted of our Norwegian Master, Captain Anders Ingebrigtsen, Chief Engineer Jerzy Gramcznski from Poland and Hotel Director (and my fellow Brit) Gary Davies. This is the first time I have been on one of Captain Anders ships, and I would say he is one of the less outgoing Masters, but he seems to run a good ship, sets a good tone from the top and has a wry sense of humour. The trio answered questions for the best of an hour, if I remember correctly. Naturally they have to deal with ship enthusiasts in the audience who think they know better or are going to catch three experienced officers out, but they had some interesting things to say about Baltimore and the Enchantment.

The Captain confirmed that the bridges limit anything bigger than Enchantment going in to the current port of Baltimore and that there are no plans to move the Enchantment, even though it adds nine hours to the journey to get up to the port. According to him, Norfolk needs major improvements to be even considered as a home port, and Philadelphia was closed by the local authorities, so is not an option anymore. The market served by Baltimore is very important and successful for RCI, but the Captain says build a bigger port further out to attract the bigger ships!

Enchantment will go into dry dock in Freeport next December. Improvements planned include pervasive WiFi, flat screens in staterooms, interactive display systems (i.e. the system that displays what’s on and how to get there in the public spaces), possible improvements to the theatre (new seating or they may expand balcony, it is still being discussed – they recognise it is under pressure after the enlargement of the ship). Park Cafe will replace the solarium café (hoping to take some of the expansion pressure off the WJ) and Izumi, Doghouse and Giovanni's are expected (no indication where). The biggest cheer was reserved for the announcement that new ‘wet units' (bathrooms!) will be put in all the cabins – with shower DOORS, not curtains.

[Stella777]

Hello,my name is Stella
I just joined this forum. I will be sailing on Enchantment of the Seas on March 19-31. I have already sign up for the meet and mingle so I guess I will meet all of you who are going there. I am looking forward to loads of fun and making new friends as I am sure you are. Hope I posted this in the right place as I never joined a forum before.:)

[Grandma Gail]

Hello,my name is Stella
I just joined this forum. I will be sailing on Enchantment of the Seas on March 19-31. I have already sign up for the meet and mingle so I guess I will meet all of you who are going there. I am looking forward to loads of fun and making new friends as I am sure you are. Hope I posted this in the right place as I never joined a forum before.:)
You are in the right place and Welcome Aboard. Glad you signed up for the Meet & Mingle. Any questions you may have, just post them here and you will get a lot of answers.

[TH451]

Hey Stella! Welcome aboard.

[chargeit2him]

Welcome to the newbies!

A while back I asked if anyone would be interested in a tour of Antigua with Lawrence of Antigua. I have a few people so far:

My party of 3
Ed and Kathy
Gail and Ken
Diane and Gloria
Chuck and Deb

Total of 11 so far. I have sent him an e-mail to get a ball park price (he will need to have the number of people to give me the actual price.) I think it will run $30 to $40 per person but that is a guess. We're looking at a 3 to 4 hour tour of the island to include a stop of around 30 minutes for shopping. We will start the tour early at 8:30 if we arrive on time at 8 a.m. The tour will not include a stop for lunch however if you are interested in eating lunch locally I'm sure our tour guide would drop you at a restuarant close to the ship but you will have to get your own taxi back to the ship after lunch. Most of us want to go back to the ship for lunch.

I did a tour with this company several years ago and it was great. If you would like to check out his web site it is Lawrence of Antigua dot com. On that tour the price included rum punch or a non-alcoholic drink.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you are interested in this tour so I can go ahead and book it.

Also I have informed him that we will need a comfortable vehicle. I hate having to climb over seats in a van but I think we will have enough for a small bus.
hello Dixieva, Sandy and lou aka chargeit2him would like to join ur group

Sandy

[ceslpn]

Welcome to the newbies!

A while back I asked if anyone would be interested in a tour of Antigua with Lawrence of Antigua. I have a few people so far:

My party of 3
Ed and Kathy
Gail and Ken
Diane and Gloria
Chuck and Deb

Total of 11 so far. I have sent him an e-mail to get a ball park price (he will need to have the number of people to give me the actual price.) I think it will run $30 to $40 per person but that is a guess. We're looking at a 3 to 4 hour tour of the island to include a stop of around 30 minutes for shopping. We will start the tour early at 8:30 if we arrive on time at 8 a.m. The tour will not include a stop for lunch however if you are interested in eating lunch locally I'm sure our tour guide would drop you at a restuarant close to the ship but you will have to get your own taxi back to the ship after lunch. Most of us want to go back to the ship for lunch.

I did a tour with this company several years ago and it was great. If you would like to check out his web site it is Lawrence of Antigua dot com. On that tour the price included rum punch or a non-alcoholic drink.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you are interested in this tour so I can go ahead and book it.

Also I have informed him that we will need a comfortable vehicle. I hate having to climb over seats in a van but I think we will have enough for a small bus.
My husband and I would be interested!

[cruzette]

My other main activity today was to go along to the Captain’s Corner in the theatre, which was well attended. The panel consisted of our Norwegian Master, Captain Anders Ingebrigtsen, Chief Engineer Jerzy Gramcznski from Poland and Hotel Director (and my fellow Brit) Gary Davies. This is the first time I have been on one of Captain Anders ships, and I would say he is one of the less outgoing Masters, but he seems to run a good ship, sets a good tone from the top and has a wry sense of humour. The trio answered questions for the best of an hour, if I remember correctly. Naturally they have to deal with ship enthusiasts in the audience who think they know better or are going to catch three experienced officers out, but they had some interesting things to say about Baltimore and the Enchantment.

The Captain confirmed that the bridges limit anything bigger than Enchantment going in to the current port of Baltimore and that there are no plans to move the Enchantment, even though it adds nine hours to the journey to get up to the port. According to him, Norfolk needs major improvements to be even considered as a home port, and Philadelphia was closed by the local authorities, so is not an option anymore. The market served by Baltimore is very important and successful for RCI, but the Captain says build a bigger port further out to attract the bigger ships!

Enchantment will go into dry dock in Freeport next December. Improvements planned include pervasive WiFi, flat screens in staterooms, interactive display systems (i.e. the system that displays what’s on and how to get there in the public spaces), possible improvements to the theatre (new seating or they may expand balcony, it is still being discussed – they recognise it is under pressure after the enlargement of the ship). Park Cafe will replace the solarium café (hoping to take some of the expansion pressure off the WJ) and Izumi, Doghouse and Giovanni's are expected (no indication where). The biggest cheer was reserved for the announcement that new ‘wet units' (bathrooms!) will be put in all the cabins – with shower DOORS, not curtains.
I love the Park Cafe...they have the best roast beef sandwich and a great salad bar! On the Oasis it is only opened during the day...no dinner service. I look forward to that!

[dixieva]

Welcome Stella!

I have added Sandy and Lou and ceslpn(sorry I don't know your names) to the tour. So far we have 17. I am working out the details with Lawrence of Antigua now. He has a bus that will take 28 people so that wil be the max I can take. I know this much so far- The tour will be just over 3 hours and will include a tour of the national park and rain forest amoung other things. The price is going to be $40 per person. There is a $8 fee for entrance to the park-not sure if the $40 includes that or not-I have asked him and am waiting for an answer. He will serve comlimentary drinks during the tour. After the tour he will take us to a beach where there is a restuarant, beach chairs, umbrellas etc. I'm trying to find out if some want to stay a while at the beach and some want to go back to the ship if that is ok with him. I'll let you know about that when I find out. The tour price is payable in cash when the tour is complete and there is no deposit (which is nice!)

We will see Nelson's Dockyard, Shirley Heights and drive along the southwestern coastline of the island.

I'll keep you posted on the details.

Oh and if some folks opt out at the last minute and we have less than 10 people the tour goes up to $50 per person.

[dixieva]

Ok I have heard back from Lawrence of Antigua already. He said that if some want to stay at the beach and some want to go back to the ship after the tour that is fine. He will return to pick up those who want to spend some time at the beach. Be sure to pack your swimsuit if you want to do that. I believe there is a place to change clothes there. He did encourage coming prepared to spend some time there as their beaches are beautiful. And the tour will begin at 8:45 a.m.

As for the price he said the price quoted was correct (his words exactly) so I think that means the $8 fee is included in the $40 but still not sure so bring an extra $8 pp just in case:confused:! When we did a tour with him several years ago I don't remember paying extra for the park.

The bus will hold 28 people and he said he does not use "jump seats" thank goodness! If you've ever had to sit on those on one of these tours you know what I mean!

So that is all the information I have. Please let me know if anyone else is interested so I can keep count to make sure we don't have over 28 folks.

Now if we did have more I think he would use another vehicle but he will need to know if we will need to do that.

[Cruznation]

Welcome, Stella!
Just jump on into the conversation! We are a friendly bunch!

[Cruznation]

Dixie,

Kathy and I are still on for the tour!
Sounds great!

[cruzette]

Ok I have heard back from Lawrence of Antigua already. He said that if some want to stay at the beach and some want to go back to the ship after the tour that is fine. He will return to pick up those who want to spend some time at the beach. Be sure to pack your swimsuit if you want to do that. I believe there is a place to change clothes there. He did encourage coming prepared to spend some time there as their beaches are beautiful. And the tour will begin at 8:45 a.m.

As for the price he said the price quoted was correct (his words exactly) so I think that means the $8 fee is included in the $40 but still not sure so bring an extra $8 pp just in case:confused:! When we did a tour with him several years ago I don't remember paying extra for the park.

The bus will hold 28 people and he said he does not use "jump seats" thank goodness! If you've ever had to sit on those on one of these tours you know what I mean!

So that is all the information I have. Please let me know if anyone else is interested so I can keep count to make sure we don't have over 28 folks.

Now if we did have more I think he would use another vehicle but he will need to know if we will need to do that.
Diane and I are in

[Stella777]

Ok I have heard back from Lawrence of Antigua already. He said that if some want to stay at the beach and some want to go back to the ship after the tour that is fine. He will return to pick up those who want to spend some time at the beach. Be sure to pack your swimsuit if you want to do that. I believe there is a place to change clothes there. He did encourage coming prepared to spend some time there as their beaches are beautiful. And the tour will begin at 8:45 a.m.

As for the price he said the price quoted was correct (his words exactly) so I think that means the $8 fee is included in the $40 but still not sure so bring an extra $8 pp just in case! When we did a tour with him several years ago I don't remember paying extra for the park.

The bus will hold 28 people and he said he does not use "jump seats" thank goodness! If you've ever had to sit on those on one of these tours you know what I mean!

So that is all the information I have. Please let me know if anyone else is interested so I can keep count to make sure we don't have over 28 folks.

Now if we did have more I think he would use another vehicle but he will need to know if we will need to do that.

Thanks for the welcome Dixieva!
I am interested in going on this tour, so count me in.

[Stella777]

Welcome, Stella!
Just jump on into the conversation! We are a friendly bunch!

Thanks Kathy! I can't wait to meet all of you. I have decided to do the tour so we can get aquainted there also beside the meet and mingle.:D

[dixieva]

Stella I will count you in. Will it just be for one or two people?

[Stella777]

Stella I will count you in. Will it just be for one or two people?

Just little o'me:D

[Stella777]

Hey Stella! Welcome aboard.

Thanks for the Welcome!:D

[Stella777]

Grandama Gail . . . . . Gail & Ken . . . . . . . . .. . 8540 . . . . . .Early . . . . MD
2crusin. . . . . . . . . . . . Barb & Skip. . . . . . . . . .8092 . . . . . Early . . . . MD
ceslpn . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl & Anthony. . . . . 7666 . . . . . .Early. . . . . PA
Janet524. . . . . . . . . . .Janet & Dick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
atb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PA
roscoegirl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8170 . . . . . . . . . . E Coast
cruzette . . . . . . . . . . . Georgia & Diane . . . . . .4586 . . . . . .Early . . . .MD
dixieva . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7166. . . . . .Early . . . .VA
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early. . . .
wrkfire911 . . . . . . . . . Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7166 . . . . . . Early . . . .VA
TH451 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandra & Tommy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruznation . . . . . . . . . .Kathy & Ed . . . . . . . . . 4584 . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruisinforabrusin79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
Living In MD . . . . . . . . .Deb & Chuck . . . . . . . . 3084 . . . . . . Early . . . .MD
DELTABLUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
shelovescruisising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YouSnoozeYouLose . .Janice & Rick . . . . . . . .7656. . . . . . .Early. . ..VA
Thecanvasback . . . . . .Sherry & Christian . . . 3116. . . . . . Late. . . . . . .MD
cheric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cheri & Gary . . . . . . . . 7136. . . . . . . Early. . MD
chargeit2him. . . . . . . . . Sandy & Lou . . . . . . . . 3124 . . . . . . . Early . . . . . PA
prekteacher1 . . . . . . . . .Susan & Kinter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
bchescpMD. . . . . . . . . . . .Melanie & Marianne. . .3624 . . . . Early . . . MD

pegwalker55 . . . . . . . . . . . . Peg & Les . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Late. . . . NY

Please send any additional info/corrections to: grandmagailhornig@gmail.com (grandmagailhornig@gmail.com) Also, please send me your names for I can make up the name tags for the Meet & Mingle.

Here's my info: Stella777.....aka Stella......2127....Early....MD

[Living in MD]

Welcome to the newbies!

A while back I asked if anyone would be interested in a tour of Antigua with Lawrence of Antigua. I have a few people so far:

My party of 3
Ed and Kathy
Gail and Ken
Diane and Gloria
Chuck and Deb

Total of 11 so far. I have sent him an e-mail to get a ball park price (he will need to have the number of people to give me the actual price.) I think it will run $30 to $40 per person but that is a guess. We're looking at a 3 to 4 hour tour of the island to include a stop of around 30 minutes for shopping. We will start the tour early at 8:30 if we arrive on time at 8 a.m. The tour will not include a stop for lunch however if you are interested in eating lunch locally I'm sure our tour guide would drop you at a restuarant close to the ship but you will have to get your own taxi back to the ship after lunch. Most of us want to go back to the ship for lunch.

I did a tour with this company several years ago and it was great. If you would like to check out his web site it is Lawrence of Antigua dot com. On that tour the price included rum punch or a non-alcoholic drink.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you are interested in this tour so I can go ahead and book it.

Also I have informed him that we will need a comfortable vehicle. I hate having to climb over seats in a van but I think we will have enough for a small bus.

Chuck and I are still interested!!

[Living in MD]

Hello,my name is Stella
I just joined this forum. I will be sailing on Enchantment of the Seas on March 19-31. I have already sign up for the meet and mingle so I guess I will meet all of you who are going there. I am looking forward to loads of fun and making new friends as I am sure you are. Hope I posted this in the right place as I never joined a forum before.:)


Welcome Aboard Stella!!! This is a Great bunch, they warmly welcomed us into their group last year so we are cruising with them again this year.

[Stella777]

Welcome Aboard Stella!!! This is a Great bunch, they warmly welcomed us into their group last year so we are cruising with them again this year.

Thanks Living in MD!
I can already tell that this is a great bunch of people to be with even though I haven't met anyone yet...I can just sense it.

[dixieva]

We're confirmed for our tour of Antigua!

Does anyone know if the ship will be on island time? According to Lawrence our ship will arrive at 7 a.m. island time. My docs say we arrive at 8 a.m. We are to meet him on the dock at 8:45 island time. He will be carrying a sign "Lawrence of Antigua". Hopefully we will be on island time but I'll have to check on that. Not gonna call RCI because I don't think they will have a clue but will be happy to make a guess. I have asked for a cell phone number for Lawrence just in case we need to touch base that morning.

So far we are at 18 and counting!

[Living in MD]

I had posted a while back about the Jost van Dyke Tour when we arrive at Tortola. Chuck and I did the Tour last year and we fell in love with the beach. The crew from Tortola Tours meet us at the dock, there's about an hour boat ride to Jost van Dyke. They anchor just off shore (about 40 feet), you can swim in or they will float you to shore on an inner tube. All your gear, camera, towels, etc are stowed in big plastis tubs and floated to the shore. Snorkel equipment, beach chairs, water and rum punch (on the ride back) are free. The captain takes anyone interested snorkling off the reef while one of the crew keeps an eye on everyone in the water from a kayak. Chuck doesn't usually snorkel so he sat on the beach and watched the world go by. We had a stingray visiting the shore throughout the day but I never did get a picture of him/her! Anyway, the Soggy Dollar Bar is right there so you can buy lunch. The water is crystal clear and warm, this is the most beautiful place I've ever seen!!!

Anyone interested in joining us??????? I'll get the prices, times, etc.

[Living in MD]

From: tortolacharters dot com/excursions/jost-van-dyke-tours

Boat > 55′ Power Catamaran “Blue Star” / 45″ Sea Ray “Oil N Water”
Times > 5 to 7 Hours / We Work Around the Daily Cruise Ship Schedules
Price > $55.00 Adults – $40.00 Children (Under 12) - Under 3 Free
Departs > Cruise Ship Pier Entry Gate, Road Town, Tortola (Village Cay Marina)
Guests > Cruise Ship Visitors to Tortola, Peter Island Visitors, Virgin Gorda Visitors
Offers > Cold Sodas, Beer, Wine, Rum Punch, Frozen Drinks
Includes > Spring Water, Snorkel Gear, Flotation Belts, Rum Cocktail on Return Trip
(This tour is suitable for all ages including infants and non-swimmers – snorkeling is done from the beach and is optional)

[dixieva]

Thanks for the invitation but I think we are going to get a taxi driver to take us on a couple hour tour of Tortola this time. Last time there we went to Virgin Gorda which was wonderful so this time we want to see more of Tortola.

[Stella777]

I don't know about the rest of you but, I find it extremely HARD to concentrate on my everyday life since I signed up for the Cruise! I have been excited ever since way back in April when I made my first down payment! I try not to talk about it too much because it can be kinda hard on the nerves, especially if you aren't planning on a vacation at the moment. So it's good now because people are asking me about it and it gives me a chance to talk about it and all of the developements along the way. Anyone else feeling this way?:p

[cruzette]

From: tortolacharters dot com/excursions/jost-van-dyke-tours

Boat > 55′ Power Catamaran “Blue Star” / 45″ Sea Ray “Oil N Water”
Times > 5 to 7 Hours / We Work Around the Daily Cruise Ship Schedules
Price > $55.00 Adults – $40.00 Children (Under 12) - Under 3 Free
Departs > Cruise Ship Pier Entry Gate, Road Town, Tortola (Village Cay Marina)
Guests > Cruise Ship Visitors to Tortola, Peter Island Visitors, Virgin Gorda Visitors
Offers > Cold Sodas, Beer, Wine, Rum Punch, Frozen Drinks
Includes > Spring Water, Snorkel Gear, Flotation Belts, Rum Cocktail on Return Trip
(This tour is suitable for all ages including infants and non-swimmers – snorkeling is done from the beach and is optional)
I was considering Virgin Gorda but this sounds like the better idea...will let you know for sure shortly.

[cruzette]

We're confirmed for our tour of Antigua!

Does anyone know if the ship will be on island time? According to Lawrence our ship will arrive at 7 a.m. island time. My docs say we arrive at 8 a.m. We are to meet him on the dock at 8:45 island time. He will be carrying a sign "Lawrence of Antigua". Hopefully we will be on island time but I'll have to check on that. Not gonna call RCI because I don't think they will have a clue but will be happy to make a guess. I have asked for a cell phone number for Lawrence just in case we need to touch base that morning.

So far we are at 18 and counting!
We have stayed on ship time for the past several cruises. Maybe they think this will help folks get back onboard on time...not!

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

We're confirmed for our tour of Antigua!

Does anyone know if the ship will be on island time? According to Lawrence our ship will arrive at 7 a.m. island time. My docs say we arrive at 8 a.m. We are to meet him on the dock at 8:45 island time. He will be carrying a sign "Lawrence of Antigua". Hopefully we will be on island time but I'll have to check on that. Not gonna call RCI because I don't think they will have a clue but will be happy to make a guess. I have asked for a cell phone number for Lawrence just in case we need to touch base that morning.

So far we are at 18 and counting!


Rick and I would love to be included if there is still room~ It sounds like a fun trip!

Welcome, Stella!! We look forward to meeting you!

[dixieva]

That makes 20 for the tour so far!

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

That makes 20 for the tour so far!

Thanks for setting all of this up, Dixie! I know it's a lot of work! :)

[Stella777]

Rick and I would love to be included if there is still room~ It sounds like a fun trip!

Welcome, Stella!! We look forward to meeting you!

Thanks for the welcome! I look forward to meeting you too.:)

[Blondesnblades]

I am Bonnie, traveling with my husband Ed and grandson Isaiah. This will be our second cruise with royal.

[2crusin]

That makes 20 for the tour so far!


dixie... does this tour stop at the beach where the planes fly low over the beach ?

[TH451]

Welcome Bonnie, Ed & Isaiah.

[TH451]

dixie... does this tour stop at the beach where the planes fly low over the beach ?


Maho Beach in St. Maarten is the one next to the airport. We are probably going to take a taxi over and watch some planes and enjoy.

[Cruznation]

I am Bonnie, traveling with my husband Ed and grandson Isaiah. This will be our second cruise with royal.

Suddenly we're getting a flow of folks going on the cruise! Excellent!
Welcome! Please remember to sign up for the Meet & Mingle party. There's a link at the top of the page. (Royal Caribbean throws a party for the Cruise Critic folks, but you have to sign up for an invitation)

We are a friendly bunch, feel free to join right into the conversation.

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

Welcome, Bonnie, Ed and Isaiah! (Isaiah is my Grandson's middle name.):D

Welcome, also, to everyone I missed! I haven't been in very much, but, like Stella, I'm starting to get excited!! I am SOOOO ready! ;)

[dixieva]

Welcome to our latest cruisers!

Like Tommy said, Maho Beach is in St. Maarten where the planes fly low over the beach on their way to landing at the airport. It's a sight to see so worth a taxi trip over there. There is also a nice bar right there on the beach where you can get a seat, a frosty drink, and watch the show. I was watching a travel channel show the other day and that bar is listed as one of the top ten beach bars in the islands.

Loving this summer weather we're having right now! 69 degrees here yesterday-weird but nice!

Have a great weekend everyone!

[Stella777]

I am Bonnie, traveling with my husband Ed and grandson Isaiah. This will be our second cruise with royal.

Welcome Bonnie,Ed and Isaiah. I am new to this group too. I am thinking that we are going to have the time of our lives on this Cruise. Looking forward to meeting all of you.:D

[dixieva]

Yay! Radio is boarding the Enchantment today for a 9 day cruise and will be sharing lots of pictures of the ship. Here is a link to his thread on Cruise Critic:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1542850

Follow along every day if you want to cruise with him.

[ceslpn]

Welcome Stella!

I have added Sandy and Lou and ceslpn(sorry I don't know your names) to the tour. So far we have 17. I am working out the details with Lawrence of Antigua now. He has a bus that will take 28 people so that wil be the max I can take. I know this much so far- The tour will be just over 3 hours and will include a tour of the national park and rain forest amoung other things. The price is going to be $40 per person. There is a $8 fee for entrance to the park-not sure if the $40 includes that or not-I have asked him and am waiting for an answer. He will serve comlimentary drinks during the tour. After the tour he will take us to a beach where there is a restuarant, beach chairs, umbrellas etc. I'm trying to find out if some want to stay a while at the beach and some want to go back to the ship if that is ok with him. I'll let you know about that when I find out. The tour price is payable in cash when the tour is complete and there is no deposit (which is nice!)

We will see Nelson's Dockyard, Shirley Heights and drive along the southwestern coastline of the island.

I'll keep you posted on the details.

Oh and if some folks opt out at the last minute and we have less than 10 people the tour goes up to $50 per person.
Sorry, We are Cheryl and Anthony(ceslpn).

[dixieva]

Got it-thanks!

[cruzette]

Maho Beach in St. Maarten is the one next to the airport. We are probably going to take a taxi over and watch some planes and enjoy.
This sounds like fun Tommy. Maybe we'll join you. What timeframe do you usually go over?

[Grandma Gail]

I had posted a while back about the Jost van Dyke Tour when we arrive at Tortola. Chuck and I did the Tour last year and we fell in love with the beach. The crew from Tortola Tours meet us at the dock, there's about an hour boat ride to Jost van Dyke. They anchor just off shore (about 40 feet), you can swim in or they will float you to shore on an inner tube. All your gear, camera, towels, etc are stowed in big plastis tubs and floated to the shore. Snorkel equipment, beach chairs, water and rum punch (on the ride back) are free. The captain takes anyone interested snorkling off the reef while one of the crew keeps an eye on everyone in the water from a kayak. Chuck doesn't usually snorkel so he sat on the beach and watched the world go by. We had a stingray visiting the shore throughout the day but I never did get a picture of him/her! Anyway, the Soggy Dollar Bar is right there so you can buy lunch. The water is crystal clear and warm, this is the most beautiful place I've ever seen!!!

Anyone interested in joining us??????? I'll get the prices, times, etc.
Count Ken and me in.

[Grandma Gail]

WELCOME to our newest members (those in red). Be sure to sign up for the Meet and Mingle and get the latest info on some activities that have been planned page 72 - Post #1562.
Grandama Gail . . . . . Gail & Ken . . . . . . . . .. . 8540 . . . . . .Early . . . . MD
2crusin. . . . . . . . . . . . Barb & Skip. . . . . . . . . .8092 . . . . . Early . . . . MD
ceslpn . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl & Anthony. . . . . 7666 . . . . . .Early. . . . . PA
Janet524. . . . . . . . . . .Janet & Dick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
atb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PA
roscoegirl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8170 . . . . . . . . . . E Coast
cruzette . . . . . . . . . . . Georgia & Diane . . . . . .4586 . . . . . .Early . . . .MD
dixieva . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7166. . . . . .Early . . . .VA
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early. . . .
wrkfire911 . . . . . . . . . Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7166 . . . . . . Early . . . .VA
TH451 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandra & Tommy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruznation . . . . . . . . . .Kathy & Ed . . . . . . . . . 4584 . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruisinforabrusin79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
Living In MD . . . . . . . . .Deb & Chuck . . . . . . . . 3084 . . . . . . Early . . . .MD
DELTABLUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
shelovescruisising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YouSnoozeYouLose . .Janice & Rick . . . . . . . .7656. . . . . . .Early. . ..VA
Thecanvasback . . . . . .Sherry & Christian . . . 3116. . . . . . Late. . . . . . .MD
cheric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cheri & Gary . . . . . . . . 7136. . . . . . . Early. . MD
chargeit2him. . . . . . . . . Sandy & Lou . . . . . . . . 3124 . . . . . . . Early . . . . . PA
prekteacher1 . . . . . . . . .Susan & Kinter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
bchescpMD. . . . . . . . . . . .Melanie & Marianne. . .3624 . . . . Early . . . MD
pegwalker55 . . . . . . . . . . . . Peg & Les . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Late. . . . NY

GRANNYOFFIVE. . . . . . . . . . Laura & Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
Stella777 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stella . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2127 . . . Early . . .MD
Blondesblades . . . . . . . . . . Bonnie & Ed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PA

Please email me directly (grandmagailhornig@gmail.com) with any additions or corrections. For those who haven't already please send in your names.

[Grandma Gail]

We are growing in numbers so how about getting a pre cruise get together going?? Lets try and Meet and Mingle before the "Official" Meet and Mingle. How about February 11??? Any suggetions for a place to meet? I'll suggest Bugaboo right here in Gaithersburg and conviently located just off 270 at Shady Grove Road. Anyone interested and any other suggestions??

[dixieva]

Wish we could Gail but it's a little too far for us to drive up for dinner.

However, if anyone is interested in meeting for dinner the night before the cruise we're staying in Bowie, Md. on the 18th of March. If anyone is close enough to drive to meet for dinner that would be great!

[Stella777]

We're confirmed for our tour of Antigua!

Does anyone know if the ship will be on island time? According to Lawrence our ship will arrive at 7 a.m. island time. My docs say we arrive at 8 a.m. We are to meet him on the dock at 8:45 island time. He will be carrying a sign "Lawrence of Antigua". Hopefully we will be on island time but I'll have to check on that. Not gonna call RCI because I don't think they will have a clue but will be happy to make a guess. I have asked for a cell phone number for Lawrence just in case we need to touch base that morning.

So far we are at 18 and counting!

Dixie,
I was wondering if there would be a lot of walking....my legs are bad and I can walk that much without having to sit down somewhere for a sec...

[TH451]

This sounds like fun Tommy. Maybe we'll join you. What timeframe do you usually go over?

From what I can gather, the big planes don't start landing until 12:30 pm and I figure we can go before and get a good vantage point at the bar. I also hear there is/was some road construction going on and traffic is a problem and we don't want to stay too long and miss the ship in the afternoon. I guess we won't really know until we get there.

Last year as our tour guide was just getting us there a plane taking off caused a couple to flip over backwards into the water. :eek:

[dixieva]

Dixie,
I was wondering if there would be a lot of walking....my legs are bad and I can walk that much without having to sit down somewhere for a sec...

There should be very little walking Stella. He's meeting us on the dock and we will have to follow him to wherever he parked the bus but I'm thinking that won't be too far. Don't know for sure though about that. But that should be the only walking you have to do. When we stop at the different sights you can walk as much or as little as you want.

Let me know if you want to change your mind about going.

Tommy-I still laugh about that skinny guy who got blown off the hill of sand when the plane went over the beach! (He wasn't hurt!)

[Stella777]

Yay! Radio is boarding the Enchantment today for a 9 day cruise and will be sharing lots of pictures of the ship. Here is a link to his thread on Cruise Critic:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1542850

Follow along every day if you want to cruise with him.

I was just wondering since I am new, who this Radio guy was. I looked at some of his Cruises that he went on and, am I mistaken??? It looks like he has gone on every Cruise there is!! Please fill me in as to what I need to know about this guy as he seems so knowledgeable.... am hopefully hoping that he can save me money on my next Cruise sine this one is costing me a bundle:)

[dixieva]

I really don't know a lot about him except that he cruises a lot and always does a live post while on board ship. He's very good at taking lots of pics all over the ship. If this is your first time on Enchantment then you will find his thread very interesting.

[Cruznation]

I was just wondering since I am new, who this Radio guy was. I looked at some of his Cruises that he went on and, am I mistaken??? It looks like he has gone on every Cruise there is!! Please fill me in as to what I need to know about this guy as he seems so knowledgeable.... am hopefully hoping that he can save me money on my next Cruise sine this one is costing me a bundle:)

Stella,

Check around the Cruise Critic (CC) site. They usually have an article on how to save money on cruises.

One thing a lot of us here do is book early. Several of us have been on this thread for a year or so. I know that some folks have problems planning so far ahead, lots of unknowns, but better to book and save and then cancel if you have to.

Many folks like to book themselves thru the cruiseline and that is fine. Kathy and I price the cruise on the cruiseline site then call our travel agent. Since 2005 she has always been able to get us a slightly better deal as well as tossing in an OBC (onboard credit) or some other goodie.

Good luck and we hope you enjoy the cruise!

[DELTABLUE]

Life has been rather hectic here lately. I have not had the time to post but I have been reading the thread. Welcome aboard to all the newbies on the thread! Happy to see our numbers grow. The more the merrier!:D As you prepare, be sure to locate some Mardi Gras beads. We wear them on embarkation day so that members of the Bead Brigade are able to spot one another as we enter the terminal and make our way around the ship the first day. Many of us already know one another and have become fast friends. Wearing the beads will allow us to spot you and you us. Come on over and introduce yourself if you see any of us...before we see you!:p

Count me in for a precruise M&M and dinner the night before here in Bowie.;) Stella...where do you live? Close to any of us?

I've had the pleasure of cruising with Radio and he is a wealth of cruising knowledge.

I'll check back when I can.

[cruzette]

We are growing in numbers so how about getting a pre cruise get together going?? Lets try and Meet and Mingle before the "Official" Meet and Mingle. How about February 11??? Any suggetions for a place to meet? I'll suggest Bugaboo right here in Gaithersburg and conviently located just off 270 at Shady Grove Road. Anyone interested and any other suggestions??
Count us in!

[cruzette]

Wish we could Gail but it's a little too far for us to drive up for dinner.

However, if anyone is interested in meeting for dinner the night before the cruise we're staying in Bowie, Md. on the 18th of March. If anyone is close enough to drive to meet for dinner that would be great!
I think this would work for us! Let us know the particulars

[cruzette]

From what I can gather, the big planes don't start landing until 12:30 pm and I figure we can go before and get a good vantage point at the bar. I also hear there is/was some road construction going on and traffic is a problem and we don't want to stay too long and miss the ship in the afternoon. I guess we won't really know until we get there.

Last year as our tour guide was just getting us there a plane taking off caused a couple to flip over backwards into the water. :eek:
This reminds me of how my brother and I would stand in the "chicken trap" as it was called 50 years ago at the end of the runway of Friendship Airport. The planes came in right over our heads. Now for your trivia question for the day...this airport was renamed twice since it's original name of Friendship. What is it today?

[cruzette]

Life has been rather hectic here lately. I have not had the time to post but I have been reading the thread. Welcome aboard to all the newbies on the thread! Happy to see our numbers grow. The more the merrier!:D As you prepare, be sure to locate some Mardi Gras beads. We wear them on embarkation day so that members of the Bead Brigade are able to spot one another as we enter the terminal and make our way around the ship the first day. Many of us already know one another and have become fast friends. Wearing the beads will allow us to spot you and you us. Come on over and introduce yourself if you see any of us...before we see you!:p

Count me in for a precruise M&M and dinner the night before here in Bowie.;) Stella...where do you live? Close to any of us?

I've had the pleasure of cruising with Radio and he is a wealth of cruising knowledge.

I'll check back when I can.
Delta...good hearing from you. We look forward to seeing you again soon.

[dixieva]

Delta-great to hear from you! Since you live in Bowie would you mind picking a place for us to do dinner on the 18th? If you don't have time that's fine we'll figure it out. For anyone interested just check back here for the time and place. I know we had a great time last year at dinner even though it took us forever to get our food:eek:! I would suggest around 5:30 or 6:00 which might be early for some but we all have a big day on the 19th and will need our beauty sleep!


For those of you who are going on the Antigua tour I have found out that the $40 price does NOT include the $8 entrance to the National Park. Lawrence has asked that we have that fee ready to pay at the gate to save time. So if you could give me that money as we board the bus for the tour I will pass it on to him. The tour price of $40 is payable in cash at the end of the tour.

I remembered another thing that we have done with the group is have lunch in the dining room on a sea day. Anyone interested in doing that? No need to sign up ahead of time just show up at the entrance to the dining room on the chosen day and time and we will sit together. BTW they have the best salad bar in the dining room for lunch! If you've never tried it you're in for a treat!

I'm planning on completing our Set Sail passes this week. And it will soon be time to pack:D!

[Stella777]

WELCOME to our newest members (those in red). Be sure to sign up for the Meet and Mingle and get the latest info on some activities that have been planned page 72 - Post #1562.
Grandama Gail . . . . . Gail & Ken . . . . . . . . .. . 8540 . . . . . .Early . . . . MD
2crusin. . . . . . . . . . . . Barb & Skip. . . . . . . . . .8092 . . . . . Early . . . . MD
ceslpn . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheryl & Anthony. . . . . 7666 . . . . . .Early. . . . . PA
Janet524. . . . . . . . . . .Janet & Dick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
atb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PA
roscoegirl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8170 . . . . . . . . . . E Coast
cruzette . . . . . . . . . . . Georgia & Diane . . . . . .4586 . . . . . .Early . . . .MD
dixieva . . . . . . . . . . . . Carolyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7166. . . . . .Early . . . .VA
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early. . . .
wrkfire911 . . . . . . . . . Kelly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7166 . . . . . . Early . . . .VA
TH451 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sandra & Tommy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruznation . . . . . . . . . .Kathy & Ed . . . . . . . . . 4584 . . . . . . .Early . . . . VA
cruisinforabrusin79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
Living In MD . . . . . . . . .Deb & Chuck . . . . . . . . 3084 . . . . . . Early . . . .MD
DELTABLUE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
shelovescruisising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
YouSnoozeYouLose . .Janice & Rick . . . . . . . .7656. . . . . . .Early. . ..VA
Thecanvasback . . . . . .Sherry & Christian . . . 3116. . . . . . Late. . . . . . .MD
cheric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cheri & Gary . . . . . . . . 7136. . . . . . . Early. . MD
chargeit2him. . . . . . . . . Sandy & Lou . . . . . . . . 3124 . . . . . . . Early . . . . . PA
prekteacher1 . . . . . . . . .Susan & Kinter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
bchescpMD. . . . . . . . . . . .Melanie & Marianne. . .3624 . . . . Early . . . MD
pegwalker55 . . . . . . . . . . . . Peg & Les . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Late. . . . NY

GRANNYOFFIVE. . . . . . . . . . Laura & Joe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VA
Stella777 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stella . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2127 . . . Early . . .MD
Blondesblades . . . . . . . . . . Bonnie & Ed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PA

Please email me directly (grandmagailhornig@gmail.com) with any additions or corrections. For those who haven't already please send in your names.

I am signed up for the Meet and Mingle.

[Stella777]

There should be very little walking Stella. He's meeting us on the dock and we will have to follow him to wherever he parked the bus but I'm thinking that won't be too far. Don't know for sure though about that. But that should be the only walking you have to do. When we stop at the different sights you can walk as much or as little as you want.

Let me know if you want to change your mind about going.

Tommy-I still laugh about that skinny guy who got blown off the hill of sand when the plane went over the beach! (He wasn't hurt!)

I still want to go, Dixie

[dixieva]

Great Stella! I think you'll be ok with the walking. My 82 year old sister will be with us on this tour and she can't walk long distances either.

Looking at Radio's pics and wishing I was with him on board right now!

[bchescpMaryalnd]

ok - i'm new to this. everyone is talking about completing their paperwork... what is a set sail pass? we booked through our travel group in Richmond, so i am sure they are taking care of everything, but... i just want to make sure i don't miss anything. i am SO excited about my first cruise that I'm counting the days! I can't wait to meet everyone!

[Stella777]

Stella,

Check around the Cruise Critic (CC) site. They usually have an article on how to save money on cruises.

One thing a lot of us here do is book early. Several of us have been on this thread for a year or so. I know that some folks have problems planning so far ahead, lots of unknowns, but better to book and save and then cancel if you have to.

Many folks like to book themselves thru the cruiseline and that is fine. Kathy and I price the cruise on the cruiseline site then call our travel agent. Since 2005 she has always been able to get us a slightly better deal as well as tossing in an OBC (onboard credit) or some other goodie.

Good luck and we hope you enjoy the cruise!

I booked through a Senior Center. Don't know if that was the way to do it or not. They sent me a flyer of the Cruise and the prices for each cabin category. I am paying more because of being solo. I did ask them to tell me if there was another single woman who needed a roommate,so the price would go down ,but didn't get anyone. I was planning on going anyways whether I had a roommate or not. I booked back in Sept. Cruise will charge a single passenger much more to make up for not having another passenger in the room. I am told that that is just the way they do it.

[Stella777]

Life has been rather hectic here lately. I have not had the time to post but I have been reading the thread. Welcome aboard to all the newbies on the thread! Happy to see our numbers grow. The more the merrier!:D As you prepare, be sure to locate some Mardi Gras beads. We wear them on embarkation day so that members of the Bead Brigade are able to spot one another as we enter the terminal and make our way around the ship the first day. Many of us already know one another and have become fast friends. Wearing the beads will allow us to spot you and you us. Come on over and introduce yourself if you see any of us...before we see you!:p

Count me in for a precruise M&M and dinner the night before here in Bowie.;) Stella...where do you live? Close to any of us?

I've had the pleasure of cruising with Radio and he is a wealth of cruising knowledge.

I'll check back when I can.

I am too far away for the dinner. I live in Overlea Md. I will look for some Mardi Gras beads to wear on Cruise day.

[Stella777]

Great Stella! I think you'll be ok with the walking. My 82 year old sister will be with us on this tour and she can't walk long distances either.

Looking at Radio's pics and wishing I was with him on board right now!

I was looking at Radio's pictures yesterday and wished that I could have taken that many Cruises:). 5 years ago,I took a bad fall and busted up my leg pretty badly. I was in a cast,boot and shoe splint for awhile. the leg hasn't been right ever since. It aches when I walk too much. This is why I asked that question. I am not going to let that get in the way of my having any fun:D

[Cruznation]

I was looking at Radio's pictures yesterday and wished that I could have taken that many Cruises:). 5 years ago,I took a bad fall and busted up my leg pretty badly. I was in a cast,boot and shoe splint for awhile. the leg hasn't been right ever since. It aches when I walk too much. This is why I asked that question. I am not going to let that get in the way of my having any fun:D

Good for you, Stella!

Last time I was on Enchantment I was still wearing a post-op boot from breaking my foot a few weeks before the cruise. Felt like Long John Silver stomping around the ship, especially on the cabin crawl (this is a informal tour of the types of cabins the ship has available).

Yes, cruising alone is an expensive proposition. Some of the newer ships coming out (and some of the new re-fits) are adding cabins for singles, which is a good move. Usually these ships go out of the bigger ports, but I see by Gail's post that Enchantment is due for a dry dock in 2013, so who knows?

[Cruznation]

Speaking of the cabin crawl, this is one of the events we have planned. This is a tour of the different types of cabins available on the Enchantment.

So far we have a suite and an ocean view. Do I hear anyone with a balcony or an inside cabin volunteering us all to come in and take a look? It would be nice to have another suite as well. Two cabins make a short tour, so please think about it.

The transatlantic cruise we took from Spain on the Liberty had 525 folks registered for the M&M. The cabin crawl had to go in two groups following two different routes and two different groups of cabins. Never saw this many Cruise Critic folks on a cruise before.

[dixieva]

I think I read somewhere that the drydock for Enchantment is actually this Dec. 2012. I hope so. I'm excited about getting the new shower enclosures that have a door and not a curtain. That's one reason we usually go for a JS which has the tub/shower combo. Still has a curtain but a lot more room.

Stella, I understand your single cruiser problem. My sister cruises alone too so has to pay double.

[Stella777]

Speaking of the cabin crawl, this is one of the events we have planned. This is a tour of the different types of cabins available on the Enchantment.

So far we have a suite and an ocean view. Do I hear anyone with a balcony or an inside cabin volunteering us all to come in and take a look? It would be nice to have another suite as well. Two cabins make a short tour, so please think about it.

The transatlantic cruise we took from Spain on the Liberty had 525 folks registered for the M&M. The cabin crawl had to go in two groups following two different routes and two different groups of cabins. Never saw this many Cruise Critic folks on a cruise before.

I have an inside cabin and will volunteer for a look-see:D

[Stella777]

I think I read somewhere that the drydock for Enchantment is actually this Dec. 2012. I hope so. I'm excited about getting the new shower enclosures that have a door and not a curtain. That's one reason we usually go for a JS which has the tub/shower combo. Still has a curtain but a lot more room.

Stella, I understand your single cruiser problem. My sister cruises alone too so has to pay double.

Thanks Dixie, I just do what I have to do if I really want to go. I can't let anything stop me just because it cost more being solo. Actually, I am looking forward to doing the solo because on my last two cruises, I was hampered by the people I was with and the roommates who were my friends but were having all kind of personal problems:eek:.

[Grandma Gail]

ok - i'm new to this. everyone is talking about completing their paperwork... what is a set sail pass? we booked through our travel group in Richmond, so i am sure they are taking care of everything, but... i just want to make sure i don't miss anything. i am SO excited about my first cruise that I'm counting the days! I can't wait to meet everyone!
Tell you what - email me directly (grandmagailhornig@gmail.com) and we will exchange phone numbers and I'll walk you through. This goes for anyone that needs help.

[Grandma Gail]

Bonnie - sorry I mis-spelled your screen name (Blondesnblades) on the last Roll Call, I will correct it on the next Roll Call.

Could everyone double check me on the Roll Call and email me with any corrections.

[chargeit2him]

If there is anyone interested in sharing the ride to the pier and lives in PA near 95 let me know .

Sandy

[Cruznation]

I have an inside cabin and will volunteer for a look-see:D

Thank you, Stella! That makes three cabins. Balconies? Anyone have a balcony cabin they want show off? :D

[2crusin]

Speaking of the cabin crawl, this is one of the events we have planned. This is a tour of the different types of cabins available on the Enchantment.

So far we have a suite and an ocean view. Do I hear anyone with a balcony or an inside cabin volunteering us all to come in and take a look? It would be nice to have another suite as well. Two cabins make a short tour, so please think about it.

The transatlantic cruise we took from Spain on the Liberty had 525 folks registered for the M&M. The cabin crawl had to go in two groups following two different routes and two different groups of cabins. Never saw this many Cruise Critic folks on a cruise before.


Ed, DH & I have a Jr Suite 8092....we would be happy to have everyone take a peak !

[2crusin]

ok - i'm new to this. everyone is talking about completing their paperwork... what is a set sail pass? we booked through our travel group in Richmond, so i am sure they are taking care of everything, but... i just want to make sure i don't miss anything. i am SO excited about my first cruise that I'm counting the days! I can't wait to meet everyone!


If I were you I would def take the time to do your own on line booking
I work as a checkin agent at the port, cannot tell you how many guests do not have their paperwork partially or even fully completed and have to fill out forms at the checkin desk. & what has been entered not always correct birth dates etc .
best to take a look even if TA said they did it for u....
having the sail sail pass to hand to your checkin agent helps your checkin go quicker for you ! any questions be happy to help !

[2crusin]

Delta-great to hear from you! Since you live in Bowie would you mind picking a place for us to do dinner on the 18th? If you don't have time that's fine we'll figure it out. For anyone interested just check back here for the time and place. I know we had a great time last year at dinner even though it took us forever to get our food:eek:! I would suggest around 5:30 or 6:00 which might be early for some but we all have a big day on the 19th and will need our beauty sleep!


For those of you who are going on the Antigua tour I have found out that the $40 price does NOT include the $8 entrance to the National Park. Lawrence has asked that we have that fee ready to pay at the gate to save time. So if you could give me that money as we board the bus for the tour I will pass it on to him. The tour price of $40 is payable in cash at the end of the tour.

I remembered another thing that we have done with the group is have lunch in the dining room on a sea day. Anyone interested in doing that? No need to sign up ahead of time just show up at the entrance to the dining room on the chosen day and time and we will sit together. BTW they have the best salad bar in the dining room for lunch! If you've never tried it you're in for a treat!

I'm planning on completing our Set Sail passes this week. And it will soon be time to pack:D!

we may be able to make it if we get off work by 4 all depends if the ship leaves as scheduled ....

[2crusin]

We are growing in numbers so how about getting a pre cruise get together going?? Lets try and Meet and Mingle before the "Official" Meet and Mingle. How about February 11??? Any suggetions for a place to meet? I'll suggest Bugaboo right here in Gaithersburg and conviently located just off 270 at Shady Grove Road. Anyone interested and any other suggestions??


sounds good to Skip & I....

[2crusin]

Maho Beach in St. Maarten is the one next to the airport. We are probably going to take a taxi over and watch some planes and enjoy.


perhaps we can get a group of us to go over maybe be a little cheaper per person ! I may have four more interested ! ?
we have been to St Maartens several time and never make it over there ... hoping to go this time !:D

[dixieva]

we may be able to make it if we get off work by 4 all depends if the ship leaves as scheduled ....


Great! We'll get a head count in case we can make a reservation at whatever restuarant we decide on.

[Stella777]

Good for you, Stella!

Last time I was on Enchantment I was still wearing a post-op boot from breaking my foot a few weeks before the cruise. Felt like Long John Silver stomping around the ship, especially on the cabin crawl (this is a informal tour of the types of cabins the ship has available).

Yes, cruising alone is an expensive proposition. Some of the newer ships coming out (and some of the new re-fits) are adding cabins for singles, which is a good move. Usually these ships go out of the bigger ports, but I see by Gail's post that Enchantment is due for a dry dock in 2013, so who knows?

So glad to hear that someone experienced what I had to go through! I was in denial the whole time which worked out for me in my physical therapy sessions. I just couldn't accept what had happened to me, so I did all the physical things that the therapist required of me with a vengeance!! He told me that I was one of his best patients! I told him that I had to do what I had to do because I was an asst. mgr. in my department and no one would respect a person that was temporarily disabled! It's all good now since this all took place 5 years ago...

[Stella777]

Delta-great to hear from you! Since you live in Bowie would you mind picking a place for us to do dinner on the 18th? If you don't have time that's fine we'll figure it out. For anyone interested just check back here for the time and place. I know we had a great time last year at dinner even though it took us forever to get our food:eek:! I would suggest around 5:30 or 6:00 which might be early for some but we all have a big day on the 19th and will need our beauty sleep!


For those of you who are going on the Antigua tour I have found out that the $40 price does NOT include the $8 entrance to the National Park. Lawrence has asked that we have that fee ready to pay at the gate to save time. So if you could give me that money as we board the bus for the tour I will pass it on to him. The tour price of $40 is payable in cash at the end of the tour.

I remembered another thing that we have done with the group is have lunch in the dining room on a sea day. Anyone interested in doing that? No need to sign up ahead of time just show up at the entrance to the dining room on the chosen day and time and we will sit together. BTW they have the best salad bar in the dining room for lunch! If you've never tried it you're in for a treat!

I'm planning on completing our Set Sail passes this week. And it will soon be time to pack:D!

I willdo my best to make this luncheon, if I don't forget with all that is going on:). I am hoping that the senior center that I booked through will tell me about the set sail pass that I need to have because I don't have a clue....so many details to try to figure out before you get to the port and sail:confused:

[Living in MD]

We are growing in numbers so how about getting a pre cruise get together going?? Lets try and Meet and Mingle before the "Official" Meet and Mingle. How about February 11??? Any suggetions for a place to meet? I'll suggest Bugaboo right here in Gaithersburg and conviently located just off 270 at Shady Grove Road. Anyone interested and any other suggestions??


Chuck and are should be able to make it.

[Living in MD]

ok - i'm new to this. everyone is talking about completing their paperwork... what is a set sail pass? we booked through our travel group in Richmond, so i am sure they are taking care of everything, but... i just want to make sure i don't miss anything. i am SO excited about my first cruise that I'm counting the days! I can't wait to meet everyone!


Welcome aboard bchescpMaryland!!!

[TH451]

this reminds me of how my brother and i would stand in the "chicken trap" as it was called 50 years ago at the end of the runway of friendship airport. The planes came in right over our heads. Now for your trivia question for the day...this airport was renamed twice since it's original name of friendship. What is it today?

bwi

[Cruznation]

Ed, DH & I have a Jr Suite 8092....we would be happy to have everyone take a peak !

Thank you so much!

That's our 2nd type of suite. All we need need now is a plain balcony cabin to complete the crawl. Anyone?

[DELTABLUE]

The full correct name is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport;)

[ceslpn]

Thank you so much!

That's our 2nd type of suite. All we need need now is a plain balcony cabin to complete the crawl. Anyone?
Ed, We have the aft balcony that was on the cabin crawl last year. (JS#7666). We can show it if you would be interested. Hoping for a great ccruise with everybody, Cheryl

[Elliegal]

Hi everybody, just saw this thread. I'll be on the 3/19 Enchantment of the Seas trip, too. This will be my 2nd cruise - my first was in November on the Oasis of the Seas - awesome, amazing time! It will be interesting to experience another ship!

Where is everyone from? We live in Boston.

[Stella777]

Hi everybody, just saw this thread. I'll be on the 3/19 Enchantment of the Seas trip, too. This will be my 2nd cruise - my first was in November on the Oasis of the Seas - awesome, amazing time! It will be interesting to experience another ship!

Where is everyone from? We live in Boston.

I am originally from Boston, now living in Maryland and when I retire I'll move on to some place in Florida.:D

[Stella777]

Rick and I would love to be included if there is still room~ It sounds like a fun trip!

Welcome, Stella!! We look forward to meeting you!

I look forward to meeting you too:)

[Elliegal]

I am originally from Boston, now living in Maryland and when I retire I'll move on to some place in Florida.:D

My inlaws live in Havre de Grace, which makes Baltimore cruises easy for me to do :).

I was looking at the itinerary...are we docked/ tendered in the same port for St John, St Thomas, St Maarten? Or how does that work? Also, does anyone know of a good Tortola excursion? Thanx!

[Cruznation]

Ed, We have the aft balcony that was on the cabin crawl last year. (JS#7666). We can show it if you would be interested. Hoping for a great ccruise with everybody, Cheryl

Thank you, Cheryl! We have a full slate of cabins now.

[Cruznation]

My inlaws live in Havre de Grace, which makes Baltimore cruises easy for me to do :).

I was looking at the itinerary...are we docked/ tendered in the same port for St John, St Thomas, St Maarten? Or how does that work? Also, does anyone know of a good Tortola excursion? Thanx!

No, we dock at each island and sail there (slowly) during the night. The St. John's is the city on Antigua.

Welcome aboard by the way. We are getting a stream of new comers to the thread this past week. That is good!

The excursion to the Baths at Virgin Gorda may be the most dramatic one. There's talk here of a private excursion (not provided by the ship) to Jost Van Dyke. Read back a few pages.

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

Hi everybody, just saw this thread. I'll be on the 3/19 Enchantment of the Seas trip, too. This will be my 2nd cruise - my first was in November on the Oasis of the Seas - awesome, amazing time! It will be interesting to experience another ship!

Where is everyone from? We live in Boston.

Welcome, Elliegal!! We look forward to meeting you!

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

If anyone living in the Norfolk, Virginia Beach area would be interested in meeting for lunch or dinner sometime the third week in February, Rick and I would be game. It would be fun to meet some of you before the cruise!:D

Oh, by the way, for anyone who is interested, and not following Radio on his cruise, I saw on one of the posts on that site, that The Enchantment was allowing families in the Solarium the first two and the last two sea days, because those days were too cold for the children to swim in the regular pools.

-J-

[bchescpMaryalnd]

Welcome aboard bchescpMaryland!!!

Thanks! I'm excited to be part of this thread!

[YouSnoozeYouLose]

Thanks! I'm excited to be part of this thread!

:oSorry, I missed your post! A big welcome from us, too! Many of the people on here know each other from previous cruises! It will be a pleasure to meet you all!

[Stella777]

Welcome aboard bchescpMaryland!!!

Welcome BchescpMaryland' I am just as excited as you are:D. I wish I was going right now!

[Cruznation]

It is snowing in Northern Virginia. We just got back from a trek to Fairfax, signing up to be electoral board officers at the primary and general elections here in the county, and we ran into a decent snow storm on the way home. Visibility is pretty bad. Not really sticking to the roads yet though. Hoping it stops before it freezes tonight.

How are things a bit north?

[Stella777]

It is snowing in Northern Virginia. We just got back from a trek to Fairfax, signing up to be electoral board officers at the primary and general elections here in the county, and we ran into a decent snow storm on the way home. Visibility is pretty bad. Not really sticking to the roads yet though. Hoping it stops before it freezes tonight.

How are things a bit north?

It's cloudy right now,has been all day long. No snow in the forecast for the next 7 days at most.
I went and checked my mailbox just now and no cruise mail yet. Getting antsy:p. I have to be patient because I already called and the travel planner said she was putting things together to send out.

[bchescpMaryalnd]

It is snowing in Northern Virginia. We just got back from a trek to Fairfax, signing up to be electoral board officers at the primary and general elections here in the county, and we ran into a decent snow storm on the way home. Visibility is pretty bad. Not really sticking to the roads yet though. Hoping it stops before it freezes tonight.

How are things a bit north?

Its snowing pretty good in DC right now. I'm about to head out and start the trek to Southern Maryland. Wish me luck.

[cruzette]

Hi everybody, just saw this thread. I'll be on the 3/19 Enchantment of the Seas trip, too. This will be my 2nd cruise - my first was in November on the Oasis of the Seas - awesome, amazing time! It will be interesting to experience another ship!

Where is everyone from? We live in Boston.
My girlfriend is from Revere...what part of Boston are you in?

[cruzette]

The full correct name is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport;)
VERY GOOD! You and Tommy make a good team!

[cruzette]

It is snowing in Northern Virginia. We just got back from a trek to Fairfax, signing up to be electoral board officers at the primary and general elections here in the county, and we ran into a decent snow storm on the way home. Visibility is pretty bad. Not really sticking to the roads yet though. Hoping it stops before it freezes tonight.

How are things a bit north?
It is snowing like gang busters as I write...we are now over the 1" mark. Hopefully no freezing tonight before it hits 50 tomorrow. Why aren't we on that ship NOW?!?

[2crusin]

welcome to all the new folks....

snowed here about an hr than turned to rain ...

[ceslpn]

I am trying to keep everything straight.....cabin crawl right after Meet and Mingle, gift exchange, how much are we to spend? Breakfast at 0800 the first sea day, I know someone spoke of lunch get together onboard but I don't remember when that is to be. Can someone refresh my memory please?.....Also is the slot pull a definate? Anthony and I will not be able to attend any pre-cruise activities as we are PA residents and the drive is a little too far! We will be driving to the pier that day...Does anyone know when they start letting you in the parking lot? Can hubby drop me and the suitcases off first? Thanks for the info in advance.

[2crusin]

I am trying to keep everything straight.....cabin crawl right after Meet and Mingle, gift exchange, how much are we to spend? Breakfast at 0800 the first sea day, I know someone spoke of lunch get together onboard but I don't remember when that is to be. Can someone refresh my memory please?.....Also is the slot pull a definate? Anthony and I will not be able to attend any pre-cruise activities as we are PA residents and the drive is a little too far! We will be driving to the pier that day...Does anyone know when they start letting you in the parking lot? Can hubby drop me and the suitcases off first? Thanks for the info in advance.


usually 10:30 - they need to get the people off the ship and off the parking lot, so that there is parking for the new people.
if you are parking your car on the lot, you will drop off your luggage, pay to park, then park your car, from there it is a short walk to the terminal.
make sure you have all travel documents in the bag you carry into the terminal.
If you are using a birth certifcate make sure it is a certified birth cert. hospital certificate will not be accepted.
and u will also need gov issued photo ID (ex. drivers li)

[dixieva]

I was just thinking yesterday that we needed to decide when to do what!

The first sea day will be breakfast at 8 in the MDR-anyone interested just show up at the door (maybe wear your beads so we can find each other!). Then meet and mingle whenever the cruise line plans that which will include the gift exchange for those who want to participate. Then the cabin crawl following this event.

I'm thinking the second sea day for the slot pull. If interested show up in the casino at 11 a.m. with money in hand:D! Then lunch in the MDR at noon-just meet at the door so we can all go in together.

I'm thinking the third sea day for shuffleboard. Meet at 11 a.m. at the shuffleboard court (don't know where that is yet but probably on one of the upper decks-maybe the deck above the pool.) Anyone know for sure?

Does this sound ok with everyone? Any other suggestions would be fine with me.

And how about the dinner one night at Chops for those of us who want to do that? Anyone have a time and night to do that?

Welcome to all the newcomers!

[dixieva]

Hmm-A change of plans already:eek:! I think maybe we should change the slot pull to 10:30 a.m. instead of 11 on the second sea day. Since we want to meet for lunch at noon I think we should start the slot pull a little earlier. After all it might take us a while to lose all of our money! I mean it might take us a while to win a bundle:D. We don't want to be late for lunch at noon in the MDR.

[Stella777]

Would someone please tell me how many formals nights there are for this Cruise? When I was on Carnival, we had two formal nights for a 7 day Cruise as I recall.....

[Stella777]

I was just thinking yesterday that we needed to decide when to do what!

The first sea day will be breakfast at 8 in the MDR-anyone interested just show up at the door (maybe wear your beads so we can find each other!). Then meet and mingle whenever the cruise line plans that which will include the gift exchange for those who want to participate. Then the cabin crawl following this event.

I'm thinking the second sea day for the slot pull. If interested show up in the casino at 11 a.m. with money in hand:D! Then lunch in the MDR at noon-just meet at the door so we can all go in together.

I'm thinking the third sea day for shuffleboard. Meet at 11 a.m. at the shuffleboard court (don't know where that is yet but probably on one of the upper decks-maybe the deck above the pool.) Anyone know for sure?

Does this sound ok with everyone? Any other suggestions would be fine with me.

And how about the dinner one night at Chops for those of us who want to do that? Anyone have a time and night to do that?

Welcome to all the newcomers!

I like these plans for the sea days but I am flexible to any changes. My on shore schedules are not subject to change since I paid in advance for 4 tours.

[dixieva]

Stella I really can't remember if it's 2 or 3 formal nights for this 12 day cruise. Don't stress-just wear one outfit twice if necessary. Believe me no one will notice:)! I take one pair of dressy black pants and two sparkly tops (casual black sandals-no one sees them under the pants anyway!).

[Living in MD]

My inlaws live in Havre de Grace, which makes Baltimore cruises easy for me to do :).

I was looking at the itinerary...are we docked/ tendered in the same port for St John, St Thomas, St Maarten? Or how does that work? Also, does anyone know of a good Tortola excursion? Thanx!


Chuck and I LOVED the Jost van Dyke trip we took last year through Tortola Chaters. Take a look at my post 1624 & 1625.

[Living in MD]

Would someone please tell me how many formals nights there are for this Cruise? When I was on Carnival, we had two formal nights for a 7 day Cruise as I recall.....

Stella, last year it was 3 formal nights on the 12 night cruise but i agree with dixieva, just bring a nice pair of pants with a few different tops.

BTW the ship does have a laundry service, they give you a bag to stuff as many clothes as you can in it for $20-$25 dollars I think.

[bchescpMaryalnd]

Welcome BchescpMaryland' I am just as excited as you are:D. I wish I was going right now!

Stella - ME TOO! When it snowed yesterday, I was imagining that I was on a tropical island soaking up the sunshine! :)

[Stella777]

Stella I really can't remember if it's 2 or 3 formal nights for this 12 day cruise. Don't stress-just wear one outfit twice if necessary. Believe me no one will notice:)! I take one pair of dressy black pants and two sparkly tops (casual black sandals-no one sees them under the pants anyway!).

Thanks Dixie,
That's pretty much the way I like to dress for formals.

[Stella777]

Stella, last year it was 3 formal nights on the 12 night cruise but i agree with dixieva, just bring a nice pair of pants with a few different tops.

BTW the ship does have a laundry service, they give you a bag to stuff as many clothes as you can in it for $20-$25 dollars I think.

Yes, I do believe your right. makes it so much easier to do it this way. I am trying to not over pack if I can help it:rolleyes:

[dixieva]

We did that bag of laundry thing last time we did this cruise and it was great! I think we had a coupon in our Diamond Booklet so we got it a little cheaper. We stuffed quite a lot in there. But remember it's wash and fold so we did nightgowns, shorts, t-shirts, socks stuff like that. I think we did it twice during the cruise and it made it a lot easier to pack light!

[Cruznation]

I was thinking if we all met for breakfast before the Antigua tour, none of would be late...

[dixieva]

Ed if we did that it would have to be in the buffet. The dining room doesn't open until 8 a.m. and since our tour starts at 8:45 that won't give us enough time to eat there. We'll probably start making our way off the ship around 8:30 to look for our tour guide on the dock.

Rainy cold day forcast for us today. So I will sit down and get our Set Sail passess completed and printed!

[Stella777]

I have been reading the many posts here of the past and I noticed things like DGD, DD, DH, BIL. I was wondering what they meant? I am new to all this so bear with me:D

[Cruznation]

Diet or no diet, we are enjoying lunch out for Restaurant Week. Yesterday we met our younger son and some friends from our old jobs at Acadiana, an Cajun and Creole place on New York Avenue. I kept it light with blackened tilapia rather than order something with a rich and fattening roux, but even with what I ordered, I could taste the calories. Eating differently has made me sensitive to all the fat in things I don't need. :eek:

Restaurant Week happens in DC twice a year; once in the post-holiday doldrums and again in the dog days of August when customers are scarce. High-end eateries offer a three course lunch for $20.12 and dinner for $35.12. We take advantage of the lunches. Today we are meeting our older son and some other friends from our old offices at Ceiba, a South American place. It is great to get out and have lunch with our friends from work again.

[dixieva]

I have been reading the many posts here of the past and I noticed things like DGD, DD, DH, BIL. I was wondering what they meant? I am new to all this so bear with me:D

Stella- DD is dear daughter, DH-dear husband, BIL-brother-in-law, DGD or DGS is dear granddaughter or grandson and so on and so forth.

Hope that helps!

Ed-I hardly ever eat out but I love to so go figure. Just not something that I do often so what you're doing sounds like great fun!

[Stella777]

Stella- DD is dear daughter, DH-dear husband, BIL-brother-in-law, DGD or DGS is dear granddaughter or grandson and so on and so forth.

Hope that helps!

Ed-I hardly ever eat out but I love to so go figure. Just not something that I do often so what you're doing sounds like great fun!

Thanks Dixie, that clears things up:). Thought I was missing out on some special sort of language that I needed to learn about!:D

[2crusin]

DH & I finally decided on excursions:
Tortola - Virgin Gorda Baths
Antiqua - tour of the island with a stop at a beach
St Maarten - going to beach to watch the planes
St Thomas - pirate ship- sail swim & snorkle & BBQ on a beach
San Juan - perhaps a walk in town & back on the ship for lunch
Labadee - a relaxing day on the beach

Now I know the cruise is getting closer.... :D

We def want to go to a breakfast & lunch .... with our cruise critic friends ....

[dixieva]

Sounds like you have some fun things planned.

Check back here closer to cruise time and we'll have a final posting of planned activities, dates and times, for all of us to print out and take along. I know in the past we have had so much fun at those breakfasts and lunches (sometimes end up doing that more than once!)

I have our Set Sail passes all done and printed, put with all other cruise docs, all ready to pack now!

We will do a private taxi tour of Tortola (went to Virgin Gorda last time and loved it). St. Maartin we're going to shop at those shops at the pier and maybe take a taxi to check out a local casino. San Juan we will spend some time in the casino there but most of the day on the ship. St. Thomas will be shopping at the shops at the dock and/or staying on the ship for a pool day. We've been there so many times! Labadee we hope to be able to rent a cabana if there are any left for non-suite guests. And then we have the tour of Antigua. So we're all set too!

Getting so anxious for this cruise!

[2crusin]

Sounds like you have some fun things planned.

Check back here closer to cruise time and we'll have a final posting of planned activities, dates and times, for all of us to print out and take along. I know in the past we have had so much fun at those breakfasts and lunches (sometimes end up doing that more than once!)

I have our Set Sail passes all done and printed, put with all other cruise docs, all ready to pack now!

We will do a private taxi tour of Tortola (went to Virgin Gorda last time and loved it). St. Maartin we're going to shop at those shops at the pier and maybe take a taxi to check out a local casino. San Juan we will spend some time in the casino there but most of the day on the ship. St. Thomas will be shopping at the shops at the dock and/or staying on the ship for a pool day. We've been there so many times! Labadee we hope to be able to rent a cabana if there are any left for non-suite guests. And then we have the tour of Antigua. So we're all set too!

Getting so anxious for this cruise!


we are also hoping to get a cabana,,, but doubt there will be any left ..we shared one with Gail & Ken in nov last year along with Georiga & Dianne loved it !

[Stella777]

we are also hoping to get a cabana,,, but doubt there will be any left ..we shared one with Gail & Ken in nov last year along with Georiga & Dianne loved it !

I've been anxious since I signed up for this Cruise almost a year ago:eek:.
My Itinerary is :
St Maarten - 9am tour
St. Thomas - 9:30 - 12:30 tour
St John's,Antigua - 8:45 w/cruise critic group:)
San Juan - 8:30am tour
Labadee,Haiti - no plans
Tortola - no plans
I planned all my tours in the morning so I could be free to do whatever in the afternoon and evening. Works for me...

[dixieva]

Stella we always do our tours and shopping in the morning hours. It's cooler then and we like to have our afternoons free to do whatever we like.

[cruzette]

Diet or no diet, we are enjoying lunch out for Restaurant Week. Yesterday we met our younger son and some friends from our old jobs at Acadiana, an Cajun and Creole place on New York Avenue. I kept it light with blackened tilapia rather than order something with a rich and fattening roux, but even with what I ordered, I could taste the calories. Eating differently has made me sensitive to all the fat in things I don't need. :eek:

Restaurant Week happens in DC twice a year; once in the post-holiday doldrums and again in the dog days of August when customers are scarce. High-end eateries offer a three course lunch for $20.12 and dinner for $35.12. We take advantage of the lunches. Today we are meeting our older son and some other friends from our old offices at Ceiba, a South American place. It is great to get out and have lunch with our friends from work again.
Sounds like fun. I love talapia...then again there isn't much I don't like. I've been dreaming of red velvet cake!

[Stella777]

Stella we always do our tours and shopping in the morning hours. It's cooler then and we like to have our afternoons free to do whatever we like.

Good minds think alike:D

[Cruznation]

Sounds like fun. I love talapia...then again there isn't much I don't like. I've been dreaming of red velvet cake!

We will have dinner together at Chops. We took our sons on Liberty. Ian ordered the Red Velvet cake. He was not disappointed. :D

[2crusin]

Sounds like fun. I love talapia...then again there isn't much I don't like. I've been dreaming of red velvet cake!


Me too...that was the BEST... esp the icing :D

[DELTABLUE]

Please keep me in the loop for dinner. If you plan to go at early bird time :rolleyes::eek:, I'll consider it lunch or something. ;):D:p

[cruzette]

Please keep me in the loop for dinner. If you plan to go at early bird time :rolleyes::eek:, I'll consider it lunch or something. ;):D:p
Will do Delta! I'm a early diner...gives me time to bring the blood sugar down before dinner.

[dixieva]

Are we going to try to go to dinner at Chops on the same night as a group? I know we might have too many for one table but it would still be fun. And if we're going to do that are we going to decide on a night before we board the ship or do it after we get on board?

We're early diners too so would like to go around 6 p.m.

That would be lunch time for you Delta!

[Grandma Gail]

Are we going to try to go to dinner at Chops on the same night as a group? I know we might have too many for one table but it would still be fun. And if we're going to do that are we going to decide on a night before we board the ship or do it after we get on board?

We're early diners too so would like to go around 6 p.m.

That would be lunch time for you Delta!
Yes, we want to go together. Me and Ken are in!

[DELTABLUE]

Wish they would post the menus for the whole cruise in advance. That way you could pick the night with the entrées you liked least for your Chops night.

Maybe we could do two groups if our numbers get to large for one table. Maybe some of you could dine fashionably late, in the continental style as you are on a cruise....say 7PM...maybe?:confused::rolleyes: Anyone last that long?

[2crusin]

count two more in for chops .... everything was so good ...wish I could have taken some for lunch the next day we had so much food left it was a shame to waste it !

[dixieva]

The three of us are in for dinner at Chops! This time I'm going to ask that my dessert be boxed up for me to take back to our room to eat later. However I think the dessert is bigger than the fridge in the room:eek:! Whatever-I'll probably eat all of it before I go to bed anyway.

We prefer to eat early like around 6 p.m. How do the rest of you feel about a time-early or late?

[TH451]

Two more for Chops, and yes, we prefer early (6ish) also.

[Stella777]

The three of us are in for dinner at Chops! This time I'm going to ask that my dessert be boxed up for me to take back to our room to eat later. However I think the dessert is bigger than the fridge in the room:eek:! Whatever-I'll probably eat all of it before I go to bed anyway.

We prefer to eat early like around 6 p.m. How do the rest of you feel about a time-early or late?

Well....I hope that I can be counted in....has it been decided as to what night this is all to take place? I am all for early! ^ is good.:D

[2crusin]

we're flexable so whatever works for everyone works for us !

we did choose the 6:00 dining .. again this trip

[Rama41]

Dick and Carol checking in having signed up yesterday and joined the Meet and Mingle about two minutes ago. From Mechanicsburg, PA. Any Geocachers out there?

[Cruznation]

Last time we just checked the dinner choices in the morning and if it wasn't anything great, we made reservations. This is a big group for spontaneous dining. Maybe we when get onboard we can ask someone in the dining room for a peek at the menus. Although Chops is always better than anything they have anyway.

[Grandma Gail]

Welcome aboard. Check out the last Roll Call on page 83 and send me your information to be included in the next Roll Call.Hi everybody, just saw this thread. I'll be on the 3/19 Enchantment of the Seas trip, too. This will be my 2nd cruise - my first was in November on the Oasis of the Seas - awesome, amazing time! It will be interesting to experience another ship!

Where is everyone from? We live in Boston.

Welcome Carol and Dick. You guys check out the last Roll Call also. Dick and Carol checking in having signed up yesterday and joined the Meet and Mingle about two minutes ago. From Mechanicsburg, PA. Any Geocachers out there?

I think we are going to have a blast on this cruise!!!!