Beating the bar tab

[joeinwpb]

There is a thread out there today. Someone is asking for tips on ways to smuggle a thermos to the pool to save on his bar tab. Couldn't help making a reply to it. Here it is:

" Bringing in liquor to have an occasional drink in your stateroom is something I can understand. Cheating on your bar tab aboard ship is less than exemplary.

Do you also smuggle in your booze when you go to a nightclub, or restaurant? It's the same thing

Sounds like a maneuver that others pay for.

Cheap "

[LAFFNVEGAS]

Joe I totally agree, I can't imagine thinking of doing such a thing. First off I am not one to bring my own beverage of any kind on board. I have enough to pack on any trip why bring something like booze that I can buy on board. Now I can see if it is a special occasion that you have a bottle of wine for. Yes, maybe I could buy it at home cheaper, but I am on vacation I plan to enjoy myself and if buying that is part of the cost so be it. If you can't afford it maybe they need to find a cheaper vacation or Quit Drinking.

[doone]

I agree, good god, your on vacation, if you can't afford a few drinks, wait to take your vacation til you have enough money to buy drinks and enjoy.

[Krazy Kruizers]

:)

Taking your own "booze" to the pool, etc., is it really worth it????

We have never smuggled alcohol onto any ship. SO, we get the impression that these people are smuggling a lot of alcohol onto a ship just for their own enjoyment and just to save money.

It is no wonder HAL has implemented new alcohol rules. It is people like them that has caused stress for all of us.

:D

[sail7seas]

Just takes a few ignorant people to ruin it for all others.


We have never brought any beverage of any sort aboard any ship but I can understand someone wanting a bottle of cognac or such in their cabin to enjoy a drink before turning in at night.......or for a drink while getting ready for the evening. The jerks who lugged cases of beer aboard with giant coolers so abused the privilege of HAL allowing a "reasonable amount", that now no one can bring anything but wine or champagne.

[BaBaG]

What is HAL's policy regarding bringing alcohol on board for cabin consumption? I agree that it's not worth all the effort (and worry!) of trying to smuggle anything in a thermos to the pool! Let's relax and enjoy our cruises!!!

[sail7seas]

Wine and champagne ONLY.

[BaBaG]

Thanks, Sail7Seas, for HAL's alcohol policy clarification. Sounds good to me!

[staufj22]

What do you guys think about bringing drinks off board? to like ports and on excursions? Taking a thermos of water/soda/juice for excursions.
I supose if some people want, maybe a flask?

[sail7seas]

It is so far from anything we would even think to do that just the question amazes me. Sorry......we simply don't think that way. Doesn't make it right or wrong...but it does blow my mind someone would bother. If we want a drink, we buy one.


I would bring bottled water off the ship with me in some ports where I did not want to take a chance on what may or may not be available. That is as far as I would go.

[debblue]

i will take a bottle of water with me in a port but that is all i do buy my drinks in the lounges and the bartenders know what i drink so when they see me arrive its ready for me i don;t worry about the price and how much im on vacation that is my theory it works for me

[Tatka]

I am not big on bars...

We like to drink in cabin.

On RCI we bought 2 bottles of vodka and 2 bottles of Kahlula(sp?) in tax free shop on board and made our own drinks. Price was 1/2 of land price but we paid 1st day special 9.50 per 2 bottles to have it in the cabin(for the rest of the cruise it was 9.50 per bottle) I would've paid 9.50 per bottle fee cause it would be still cheaper or equal to land prices(why smuggle then???)

On Celebrity you can't buy a bottle in tax free store and bring it to yor cabin.

While I don't like to count money on vacation I'd rather spend it on my excursion than pay $7+ per drink in bar. I honestly don't want to wait til I am rich ;) (might actually never happen)

[staufj22]

I would bring bottled water off the ship with me in some ports where I did not want to take a chance on what may or may not be available. That is as far as I would go.


Now what is your reasoning on that? I can understand if all you drink is water.. but that dosn't sound to be the case.

[ryansmemom]

I have asked people to explain why they feel the need to bring large quantities of alcoholic beverages on board. The only answer I got was from some people who were very specific about the wine they wanted for a special occasion for a large number of people.

Personally, I do not understand why people bring large quantities of any beverage on board, especially if they are smuggling it on board. It also boggles my mind that people are so openly discussing their plans to smuggle things on board. Smuggling is illegal. If you think you are totally anonymous, check out the page that tells you who is on line and what they are looking at. The internet is not private. I'm not trying to alarm people, but smuggling!!!

Everyone who says a few people spoil it for the rest of us is right. I personally have never brought anything on board. My meds keep me from drinking alcohol so when I do it's a cheat and very little. The changes don't affect me.

HAL has generously let people who choose to do so bring some beverages on board for personal consumption in their cabin. Unfortunately, some greedy people had to spoil it. Now the greedy people are looking for ways to cheat HAL more. As a result, we begin to feel less and less like guests and more like customers. Some people do not behave like guests. I just wish HAL would not make us all suffer for those few.

Linda

[sail7seas]

My reasoning is that in places such as Cozumel, I would not eat or drink a thing. I would not touch a glass there (washed in local water); would not touch an ice cube....would not risk needlessly becoming ill and ruining our vacation. (I know, I know...there are a whole string of folks who are all prepared to tell me how safe it is to eat the food, drink the drinks.....:) It's our preference to eat on the ship when we are in Mexico.)

So, in Cozumel, I bring a bottle of water ashore with us.

In other ports, if we want a drink, we stop at a local establishment, order what we want and pay the bill when we are ready to leave.

[staufj22]

So, in Cozumel, I bring a bottle of water ashore with us.

In other ports, if we want a drink, we stop at a local establishment, order what we want and pay the bill when we are ready to leave.

Heh, "Don't drink the water" has to start from somewhere..=)
I guess the thing I don't get is why there is a negative view if someone were to bring some soda, juice, or whatever, off board, to enjoy during their port stay.

[sail7seas]

That's okay....I don't get someone bringing juice and liquor ashore with them.


Different strokes for different folks, I guess.

I think most people would agree that in the world today, it is most common to see people walking around with a bottle of water just about everywhere you go. I don't see too many folks lugging thermoses so they can avoid buying a drink.

Toting a water bottle is so common it's odd to not see someone with it.

[Orcrone]

It's difficult to make this determination, but I view things based on motivation. For instance, I wouldn't bring a thermos of joice with me to avoid paying for it in a restaurant. But I would bring it with me to be on the safe side if I don't know when, or if, we'll have a chance to stop and get a drink.

As far as smuggling on board. It's a vacation if I can grab a deck chair and get a drink from a steward. If I have to make up my drinks ahead of time, keep them in a thermos and take it to the pool while hoping no one notices, it's no longer a vacation.

[staufj22]

Its my opinion that its wrong to "smuggle" things onboard. Being that you have to hide something from the cruise line, you obviously know you're doing something you're not suposed to.

It kinda bugs me, tho, to be looked negavitely if I were to bring drinks off of the ship. Why is it okay/normal to have a bottle of water, and not a thermos of water? I guess the bottle shows that you purchased it? Please. We all agree that its a matter of choice, so why are yours superior then mine? Well, its not, so don't act like it.

...Stepping off my soap box now... =)

[ryansmemom]

My 94 year old-mother-in-law told me that she never had a vacation in her entire life. Every year, when my husband was a small child, she, my father-in-law and my husband would spend two weeks in Atlantic City, NJ. This was their vacation. My husband and his father spent their days fishing and playing on the beach. My mother-in-law spent her time shopping for food, cooking their meals, cleaning up, and doing other household chores. They stayed in a boarding house. Not only did she do the same work "on vacation" as she did at home, she did it in less comfortable and convienent surroundings. She had to bring all of her pots and pans and linens, etc. with her. She had to share a kitchen and laundry facilities, too. Vacation, I don't think so, and neither did she.

When I go on vacation, with the full support and encouragement of my wonderful mother-in-law, I go for the service. My mother-in-law said to me "Doll", I love that she calls me Doll. "Doll, don't be a fool like me. Spend the money. Don't be a slave. Enjoy yourself. I wish I did. Now it's too late."

I don't get it. Sure don't drink the local beverages if your health is at risk. That's why they offer those bottle of water at the gangway. Smuggle stuff on board to save a few bucks? Sneak stuff out to the pool to save a few bucks? Go to all the trouble and aggravation that people describe to do this stuff? What containers do you put it in? How do you pack it? How do you get around security? How much can I get away with? What happens if I get caught? Schlep all those cases?

Sorry, for me at least, that's not a vacation. It's too much work. Just to save a few bucks? Your already spending a lot of money. You're on a cruise, not a boarding house in Atlantic City. Take the advice of my 94 year old mother-in-law. She's one classy lady.

Linda :) :)

[Joedog]

I am sorry but I do not understand how someone sneaking alcohol onboard to drink in their cabin or anywhere else is ruining anything for anyone else.

It's not as if HAL is going to change their rule about alcohol if no one smuggles.

I dont see how anyone smuggling alcohol has any effect on anyone else.

I'm not saying that it is right, I am just saying that other than lost revenues to HAL it is pretty much a victimless crime.

If someone thinks he/she has to smuggle alcohol onboard because they can't afford the HAL prices or just like the thrill of smuggling I say, good luck, it is no skin off my nose.

Just my opinion.

[staufj22]

Sorry, for me at least, that's not a vacation. It's too much work. Just to save a few bucks? Your already spending a lot of money. You're on a cruise, not a boarding house in Atlantic City. Take the advice of my 94 year old mother-in-law. She's one classy lady.

Linda :) :)

I guess I would ask her.. if someone offered that same advice to her back then.. would she have changed her ways?
I know I probably wouldn't.. but thats because I'm stubborn!

[superstein61]

Wow, what a bunch of hypocrites on this thread.

Its ok to bring booze on board to drink in your cabin but not around the pool????? Sorry, no difference.

Its not cheap to bring your own wine and champagne - but it is cheap to bring your own hard liquor? Sorry, no difference

Its ok to take water off board but not juice / liquor / etc??? Sorry, no difference

Everyone here needs to get off their high horse and not criticize others choices.

By the way - if you want to beat that bar tab, here are a few tips. I recall these from a hilarious thread from several years ago. I never saved it, and I am sure my recreation is no where close to how funny the original one was, but the tips still ring true !!!

First - forget the thermos, think instead large, 32 oz or larger insulated cup with a lid. Fill that baby up in your room with your favorite libation before heading to the pool and enjoy yourself. You'll save money, and if you need a refill, just take a quick stroll back to your room. Plus, when you may be in the mood for a non-alcholoic ise tea - you don't have to resort to the pitiful 3 oz cups that HAL uses.

Second, the serious bargain huneter always remembers to pack their blender. Yep, you heard right - bring your blender along and plug that baby in in your room. Then you are all set to whip up a mixture of your favorite Margaritas, Daquiri's, etc. After all, the ship supplies a wonderful host of accompanyments lat breakfast and lunch like fresh strawberries for strawberry dacquiris, bananas, sugar, ice, ice cream, etc. Use your imagination. And if you don't want the big blender, they sell the small portable ones for about $12 that you insert into your glass to blend things up.

Third, the booze goes in your checked luggage - not your carryon.

Fourth, tip your cabin steward to ensure he keeps you well stocked with ice, fresh fruit and other mixers.

Fith, enjoy and think of all the $$$$ you are saving

[valeriequeenofthesea]

Why does HAL allow their guests to bring as much wine & champagne on board as they choose, but not other alcohol? Is it just that they think wine drinkers are a "classier" crowd? Why shouldn't I be allowed to bring a bottle of vodka or gin?
Just wondering why draw the line there? Why not beer? A half case or something reasonable?

[Travelitis]

Hi there Sail 7! Good to see an SN I can put with a face!

As far as why bring drinks:
1. No cruise line sells what we want to drink: Code Red Mtn. Dew, Diet Dr. Pepper, Crystal Light (When we have the kids we're bringing Gatorade mix and some root beer to give them variety.)
2. We can't find our drinks of choice in port.
3. It saves a few bucks that we end up spending elsewhere on the ship.
4. It's more convenient to have some drinks right there in your cabin, so you don't have to go out for them. Unlike many people, we don't like bars. We also log a significant amount of cabin time and don't always like room service, if you get my drift.

Would we take them in port? - you better believe it! That naaaassstttyyy Pepsi Max we had in Cozumel sealed the deal!

Would we take them out and about the ship? Oh yeah! I'm not going to confine myself to my cabin to finish my bottle of Dr. Pepper. I will pour it in a glass, and you won't know that it's not Coke purchased from the ship. If I don't have DP or CL, I'm not buying *gag* Coke or Sprite and will stick to water or milk, neither which means a penny in the cruise line's pocket. It's more profitable for them if I carry my glass of DP into the dining room than drink their milk. I've done that twice and no one batted an eye, because I had a bar glass. The waitstaff had been really pushing the drinks and looking down their noses at us not drinking alcohol, but when I walked in with a drink they perceived was from the bar, they were much sweeter about us turning down wine.

An added benefit to packing some of your favorite beverage (and Carnival does say in the FAQ at their website that you are permitted to take it, so it's not breaking rules, folks) is as you use it, you're making room in your luggage for souvies. I'm not talking huge amounts of soda.

One ship provided us with a blender, and we really missed having that last time. We're considering taking one on the Rhapsody. Even with it, if we're in a show and want some frozen drink, we'll order it from the bar. If we're hanging in our cabin, we're not leaving just to get a daquiri.

On the Sun some CC folks we met had a blender and carried around insulated cups with their own concoctions. They weren't drunk, and NCL made plenty from them in other areas. They participated in the art auction, shopped, gambled, and sampled the alternative dining. The bottom line is that most drink packers are going to spend the same amount on the ship, and taking drinks just frees money for bigger tips, shopping, spa, etc. AND it wouldn't kill any line to offer a larger drink selection.

[thulewx]

On my recent trip to Polynesia, I did a 4-day pre-cruise stay. I had read on many boards that prices in Polynesia are stratospheric. That combines with the fact that they probably wouldn't have my favored booze (Bacardi O orange flavored) got me to bring a bottle with me. I'd also heard that everything there was pricey, so I brought some coke, too.
:eek: Wow. Coke - $4.50 a can, breakfast $29.95 average, dinner $60-70 average, alcohol drinks averaged $12.00 each, gas $12 a gallon. :eek:
On the Paul Gauguin, they give you free soda and water anytime, wine & beer with lunch & dinner, and one liter of booze of choice per person in the cabin. I didn't finish the booze, so took it and some sodas with me for the day room prior to flying out and don't feel bad at all.

[ron46936]

The only ports I buy drinks for consumption on the ship are in Mexico. It may sound odd but they use a slightly different formula for Coca-Cola products there. The Mexican version of Diet Coke called "Coke Lite" actually tastes good where as I don't care for USA Diet Coke. I also bought some Rum on our last cruise and we were allowed to take it to our cabin, but since neither of us drink rum we brought it home intact. I only buy rum for baking rum cakes.

[sail7seas]

Hi there Sail 7! Good to see an SN I can put with a face!



Travelitis.... Did we meet on Zuiderdam? Refresh my memory...give me a hint:)
If we met, I don't think you told me you were a CC poster. There was only one couple I met who post here.

What does "SN" stand for? Thanks.

[wdblake]

A drink on a ship can cost about $5 plus a mandatory 15% gratuity. I fail to see how bringing your own alcohol hurts anyone. Am I supposed to feel sorry for the poor poor cruise line that charges me $1000 per person or more? My wife and I would like to have a few drinks on our cruise without incurring a $300 bar tab.
Remember cruise "rules" are not "laws". No one is going to make you walk the plank for bringing a bottle on board.

[vjb223]

just try to find caff. free diet coke, so have to bring my own.

[localady]

On that note, we have just received word from HAL that they no longer offer the Mendenhall Glacier and Alaska Brew Co. excursion in Juneau. My guess is that it was too hard to explain to passengers why they had to bring their beer back and then give it to the attendants to hold. Can you imagine the mess of a bus full of passengers, most with beer purchases from a HAL sponsored activity, having to stand in line for "beer confiscation"?? :eek: It's a darned shame and I think we have the beancounters as well as those that abused the privilege to thank:rolleyes:

[stillfrantic]

I was perfectly willing to order beer for in cabin use from Ship's Services and had them send me the list of available products. I wasn't even going to quibble on the $15.50 per 6 pack as it is for my wonderful husband and as so many have said, we're on vacation. When we looked at the selections, there was not a single dark beer available, the only kind he drinks. So, will I take some for him to enjoy on the balcony?? Absolutely...as so many have said, we're on vacation.

Will I take cases? No. Will he take it to the pool and flaunt breaking the rule? No. Will he still buy other things in bars and wine through Ship Services. Sure.

And, they don't have Dr. Pepper? I might have to throw in a can or 2 of that as well.

[Esme]

just try to find caff. free diet coke, so have to bring my own.

Are you sure? That is what I drink and have had no problem getting it. Just ask the bartender for it and ask them to please look for it if they say they have none. They usually can find a couple of cans.

[staufj22]

It's a darned shame and I think we have the beancounters as well as those that abused the privilege to thank:rolleyes:


I'm assuming by "those who abuse the privilege", you mean the people who bought too much beer from the excursion.

[ryansmemom]

Just for the sake of discussion, no judgements aimed at anyone. Just another way of looking at things.

Could it be that what works for me, what feels right to me, what does't necessarly "hurt" the big corporation, what is more conevient for me, etc, etc., could also be just plain wrong.

I know this is a very politicially uncorrect opinion. We live in the 21st century where the individual is king or queen and it's me first. Yes it's just a cruise ship. Yes, these are rules not laws. But this is a slice of life. The way we behave here is the same as the way way we behave every where else. Our values remain the same.

Taking a thermos of water off the ship is different than taking another beverage off the ship. The cruise line provides water at no additional cost. If the cruise line allows people to bring beverages for private use in their cabin and no where else, that is their perogative. It's their ship. Just like you are allowed to make the rules in your house they are allowed to make the rules on their ship. If someone broke the rules in my house in this manner, I wouldn't welcome them back. But, my house is not a cruise ship so I don't depend on the people for money to keep my business alive. Another difference is that I get to invite them, the cruiseline does not have that luxury.

I do not allow people to smoke in my office. Yes, they are paying to be there. They still may not smoke. Why? Because it is my office. I make the rules. Yes, they are addicted. Yes, they are under stress. Yes, it is uncomfortable. They still can't smoke. This is my office. Their option is to seek treatment elsewhere should they desire. So far, in close to twenty years of practice, not one person has done so.

I really could not care less what any person does. Smuggle your hearts out. Just don't do anything that will affect the lives of innocent people. If your smuggling causes the cruise line to inconvience everyone by having their luggage searched, you have gone too far. You have affected the lives of others who do not deserve to be treated that way. Your behavior has diminished my experience. If you become drunk on the alcohol you smuggled out to the pool, because there is now no way to control the amount you are consuming (as any responsible bar tender would do) and your behavior is upsetting to me, you have diminished my experience and I resent that.

We all live in this world together. On a cruise ship we all live together in fairly close quarters for a distinct period of time. To be uncaring of the rights of your fellow guests is selfish.

Please don't flame me. As I said, do as you please. This is just information and another point of view.

Linda

[boards]

Ryanmemom I hope you don't mind if I say a great big thank you and amen to you. I certainly agree with every thing you wrote. We will look forward to meeting you a year from Nov. on the Veendam.

[Gregg20]

We brought vodka and mailbu mix in our carry-ons when we boarded the Z in May...no problem. It's partly because my wife is particular about her vodka and we just like having our own deal in our cabin. We certainly have no problem buying drinks at the bar and any liquor we had in the cabin stayed in the cabin. Our tab for the week was $800...not all booz.

[sail7seas]

Linda....

Great post; so well said. Thank you.

[staufj22]

Taking a thermos of water off the ship is different than taking another beverage off the ship. The cruise line provides water at no additional cost.
Linda

Hi Linda,

No flames towards you.. just trying to see it how you do. So in your opinion, what is okay to bring off the ship? Water, because its provided free by the cruise? or for arguments sake, soda, because you have to purchase it.
Just providing my opinion, but the water is purchased as part of the cruise fare, since people who didn't pay the fare couldn't get the free water.
Cost of soda is just an addition al what I've paid for, for water.

So, being that I would have paid for either of those 2 beverages, why is there a difference in taking them off the ship?

[Joedog]

I don't believe that anyone said they wanted to smuggle alcohol on board so they could incovenience others by causing delays in the boarding lines or to get overly drunk by the pool.

Certainly any adult could get as much alcohol delivered to him just about anywhere on the ship to get as drunk as it takes to make a fool out of himself. And, in this age of terrorism that we live in, the inspecting of carry on luggage would continue even if there was no alcohol to smuggle.

I dont remember who said it and I am not going to go back to check but I still dont see how anyone smuggling alcohol is really "ruining" anyone else's cruise.

The kind of person that gets drunk and acts stupid will get drunk and act stupid whether he/she smuggles the alcohol or buys it onboard.

Just my opinion

[jhannah]

:rolleyes:
The question then becomes, "where will it end?" I prefer my morning bacon crisp and dry. Since that's hard to come by in most eating venues, why don't I just bring my electric skillet and my own brand of bacon on board? A-a-a-h-h. Nothing like cooking breakfast out on the veranda early in the morning. :rolleyes:

I cannot disagree more with the concept that what I do has no affect on others. Eventually, it will ... as society proves every day and is being shown in this case by HAL's tightened alcohol policy. It's probably just a matter of time before wine and champagne will be prohibited as well. As always, JMO.

[staufj22]

[QUOTE=jhannah]:rolleyes:
The question then becomes, "where will it end?" I prefer my morning bacon crisp and dry. Since that's hard to come by in most eating venues, why don't I just bring my electric skillet and my own brand of bacon on board? A-a-a-h-h. Nothing like cooking breakfast out on the veranda early in the morning. :rolleyes:
QUOTE]


In order to show that a proposition P is unacceptable, a sequence of increasingly unacceptable events is shown to follow from P. A slippery slope is an illegitimate use of the "if-then" operator.

JMO

[G_Man]

We smuggled booze aboard at every port and brought it to the pool. If the prices had been reasonable we wouldn’t have felt the need.

Horizon 3/’03

[ryansmemom]

Hi Linda,

No flames towards you.. just trying to see it how you do. So in your opinion, what is okay to bring off the ship? Water, because its provided free by the cruise? or for arguments sake, soda, because you have to purchase it.
Just providing my opinion, but the water is purchased as part of the cruise fare, since people who didn't pay the fare couldn't get the free water.
Cost of soda is just an addition al what I've paid for, for water.

So, being that I would have paid for either of those 2 beverages, why is there a difference in taking them off the ship?


Excellent point! I don't have a problem with taking anything off the ship that you have legitimately purchased on the ship. I do not recall their being any rule regarding this. I don't think the cruise line really cares. So there is no difference at all. Heck, take the bag of Dorito's you purchased in the shop! Who cares!

I'm not trying to get too concrete here. My point really is, Your host has set certain rules and standards of behavior to be followed while on their premises. We all do the same thing in our homes and places of business. It is irrelevant if we pay to be there or not. We are on someone else's turf. It is rude and selfish to behave in a manner that is contrary to the wishes of our host. This is what we used to call civilized behavior.

No one can force another adult to behave in a certain way. However, no one can escape the consequences of their behavior. A lot of people seem to enjoy taking the risk of pushing the envelope and get a thrill out of this. Fine. But then, they need to accept the concequences they brought on to themselves without all the griping. One of those consequences is that a lot of other people are going to be upset with them because their lives have been altered through no fault of their own. It happens every day in Jr High.

All I'm talking about is looking at the big picture. There is more going on than one person's experience or one family's experience, especially when we are all living together on one small cruise ship. Go out on deck. Take a look at the sea. You will see how small you really are. It's a wonderful experience. At sea you become grounded.

This is for discussion only. Please, no flames.


Linda

[staufj22]

Excellent point! I don't have a problem with taking anything off the ship that you have legitimately purchased on the ship. I do not recall their being any rule regarding this. I don't think the cruise line really cares. So there is no difference at all. Heck, take the bag of Dorito's you purchased in the shop! Who cares!

I'm not trying to get too concrete here. My point really is, Your host has set certain rules and standards of behavior to be followed while on their premises. We all do the same thing in our homes and places of business. It is irrelevant if we pay to be there or not. We are on someone else's turf. It is rude and selfish to behave in a manner that is contrary to the wishes of our host. This is what we used to call civilized behavior.

No one can force another adult to behave in a certain way. However, no one can escape the consequences of their behavior. A lot of people seem to enjoy taking the risk of pushing the envelope and get a thrill out of this. Fine. But then, they need to accept the concequences they brought on to themselves without all the griping. One of those consequences is that a lot of other people are going to be upset with them because their lives have been altered through no fault of their own. It happens every day in Jr High.

All I'm talking about is looking at the big picture. There is more going on than one person's experience or one family's experience, especially when we are all living together on one small cruise ship. Go out on deck. Take a look at the sea. You will see how small you really are. It's a wonderful experience. At sea you become grounded.

This is for discussion only. Please, no flames.


Linda


I think we are in agreement. The issue I have is with people who turn their nose up at people who brings drinks OFF of the ship. Saying that its okay only if you bring bottled water, but its looked down upon if its some other beverage.
I don't disagree that there are rules to follow whereever you go, be it no weapons in the airport, or dress codes in the Vatican.

[stillfrantic]

I'm not sure how taking any food or drink item off the ship is a problem for anyone...how is that going to make this escalating pyramid of ill behavior topple on top of the good people? They don't quit serving food or drink while in port. It isn't a case of stealing food as all you care to eat is included in the fare. I'm not trying to be glib, I honestly don't understand how it is stealing to take a paper cup of juice and a banana off the ship to get an early start. Would you also say it is stealing to go back to the ship, grab a banana and a cup of juice, eat it and then travel back to town? If you stand on the gangway and eat the banana it is fine, but once you step onto the dock it become stealing? I'm just not getting this. It isn't like anyone here was talking about filling up their Colemans to go feed the islanders.

[ryansmemom]

I'm not sure how taking any food or drink item off the ship is a problem for anyone...how is that going to make this escalating pyramid of ill behavior topple on top of the good people? They don't quit serving food or drink while in port. It isn't a case of stealing food as all you care to eat is included in the fare. I'm not trying to be glib, I honestly don't understand how it is stealing to take a paper cup of juice and a banana off the ship to get an early start. Would you also say it is stealing to go back to the ship, grab a banana and a cup of juice, eat it and then travel back to town? If you stand on the gangway and eat the banana it is fine, but once you step onto the dock it become stealing? I'm just not getting this. It isn't like anyone here was talking about filling up their Colemans to go feed the islanders.

I agree with you completely. This is not stealing food. This food is provided to you for your personal consumption. You may take it back to your cabin or any where else on the ship. Why not take if off to munch on while on tour?

Your host, HAL, has no stated objection to this. I don't see a problem at all.

I think the issue at hand is people smuggling food and beverages onto the ship against company policy and the affect this behavioir has on everyone else. When I was a student we called this values clairification. It's is a good discussion topic as long as everyone remains calm and nonjudgemental.

There is no right or wrong answer here, folks. Just interesting discussion. We are all adults and can do what ever we want to do. Keep that in mind and this could be a really good discussion and the powers that be will not shut it down.

Linda

[ryansmemom]

We smuggled booze aboard at every port and brought it to the pool. If the prices had been reasonable we wouldn’t have felt the need.

Horizon 3/’03

Hi

I would like to here more about this. Please tell us more. We can all learn from your thoughts and why this was important to you.
Linda

[stillfrantic]

Well, the smuggling food on issue....why would HAL care, and why would anyone need to? Alcohol I can see as a debate, but why would HAL care if I brought food onboard? It is all free onboard. I guess I am still confused.

Okay, now I will offer up another scenario for those who feel strongly that it is just plain terrible for me to take a small number of cans of a dark beer onboard for my husband to drink on our verandah. Have any of you gone 26 in a 25 MPH zone? Anyone actually received a ticket for speeding? What about being a day late on your car's state inspection? All of those things are actually laws and do truly endanger others on the road and sidewalks. Has anyone had a glass of wine with dinner and driven home? Again, putting others in danger. How is my Guiness Draught on my own verandah endangering anyone or compromising others enjoyment of their own cabins or public areas on the ship?

[heartofamerica]

Because I enjoy a glass in my room in the evening. If by the pool, in the casino, or just meeting friends for drinks, I always bought from the bar.

[Vicar]

Linda,


You bring up many excellent points. You are absolutely correct, when you are on someone elses turf you obey those rules, otherwise don't go there.

I completely agree that there should be no problem taking something off the ship that you have paid for to consume while ashore. I buy a bottle of water at the 7-11 at home , they don't expect me to stand there in the 7-11 and drink it. its not a matter of being cheap or trying to sell it to the islanders at black market prices. *LOL*

S7S,

I see your point exactly, you take a bottle of water with you in ports that you don't feel comfortable with the level of sanitary conditions, and in some place I DON"T BLAME YOU.


As for smuggleing Kegs and cases and stills and whatever else they sneak on board, If the cruiseline prohibits it , then that is their turf, they made the rules and it is wrong to do so.

As for me, I have enough crap to lug around (suitcases, carry on bags , camera bags etc) between home, the airport, the ship, and back again) to be bothered adding bottles and cases and kegs to my load .

GF and I are not THAT big of drinkers that we need to hide liqour everywhere like Jack Lemmon in "The Days of Wine and Roses" *LOL*


LINDA<

I agree with your Mother in law 100%, Go on a "VACATION" . maybe you can't go to the swankiest place on earth , but take a trip where someone else, cooks and cleans and waits all week.

When we were kids we always took nice trips where we stayed in nice motels and always ate out even if it was a Motel 6 and ate at a diner, it was still a treat for my mom too.

One year my sister somehow talked my parents into taking our family on a vacation with her friends family to some cabin on a lake. I guess these people did this every year since time began. Same thing as your MIL, the kids played and swam all day, the men fished and played cards , and the women shopped cooked and cleaned . After three days my mother said ENOUGH!!!!
and that was that.

Since then my mothers idea of "Roughing it" is booking an inside cabin. *LOL*

You only live once , so enjoy !!!!!!

[ryansmemom]

Well, the smuggling food on issue....why would HAL care, and why would anyone need to? Alcohol I can see as a debate, but why would HAL care if I brought food onboard? It is all free onboard. I guess I am still confused.

Okay, now I will offer up another scenario for those who feel strongly that it is just plain terrible for me to take a small number of cans of a dark beer onboard for my husband to drink on our verandah. Have any of you gone 26 in a 25 MPH zone? Anyone actually received a ticket for speeding? What about being a day late on your car's state inspection? All of those things are actually laws and do truly endanger others on the road and sidewalks. Has anyone had a glass of wine with dinner and driven home? Again, putting others in danger. How is my Guiness Draught on my own verandah endangering anyone or compromising others enjoyment of their own cabins or public areas on the ship?

Brava!! I agree, Stillfrantic and heartofamerica you both just endorsed HAL's original alcohol policy. This was exactly the way things were until a few months ago before HAL abruptly changed their long standing liberal policy that allowed people to bring a small quantity of the beverage of their choice on board. They could bring this on right in the open. No need to smuggle. No need to sneak anything on. They supplied glasses, ice. It was completly kosher. Most people were very happy. We were all self respecting guests.

Then things changed. Why? No one knows for sure. Did HAL become greedy? Some think so. Maybe. I don't know. They are a really big corporation and have never nickel and dimed before. They have been a class act for a long time. But, maybe. A lot of people think so.

Another explaination is that too many people pushed that envelope. A small amount of beverages became cases of beverages. Beverages to be consumed in the cabin started showing up all over the ship. HAL was losing contol over their space. Just a theory. Can the behavior of a small number of people affect the experience of the rest. You better believe it!

What do you think? This is just my opinion. This is a great discussion. Let's keep it going. No one has to change anything they do. No judgement. Just opinions. This is not personal. However, you cannot escape the consequences of your behavior.

This is a good discussion. No flames please. No personal attacks. Let's not get shut down.

Linda

[sail7seas]

I agree, Linda, that this has thus far been a civil conversation.

I have been interested to read the various points of view and reasons for them.

But I wonder what use would be speculative conversation as to why HAL changed their policy. What seems to be the fact is that "it is their ship" and they can do what they want. (as you so well put it in previous posts).

We can talk about each person's view of why the policy changed but unless someone of authority from HAL comes here and tells us, we will still not know the REAL reason. All we will be doing is criticising the policy and what useful purpose does that serve? I sincerely doubt it will be changed back to what it used to be.

[staufj22]

We can talk about each person's view of why the policy changed but unless someone of authority from HAL comes here and tells us, we will still not know the REAL reason. All we will be doing is criticising the policy and what useful purpose does that serve? I sincerely doubt it will be changed back to what it used to be.

Exactly. No one really knows why HAL changed their policy. Some comments in this thread, tho, seem to specifically target those who bring beverages onboard as the sole cause of this change.
Alas, since it is HAL's ship, and no one can say for sure why their policy changed, its really up to the individules to decide if its okay or not.
I for one don't chase down cars who drive above the speed limit, I leave that to the people who enforces it. In this case, it would be HAL.

I guess this whole thread started when someone in another forum asked for advise on taking alcahol onboard. How's this different then someone asking where police speed traps are?

[stillfrantic]

I just found this on the HAL website:

IMPORTANT: Do not pack your passport, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets. Keep them close at hand in your purse or jacket pocket. We also strongly suggest that you carry or otherwise keep with you important items such as perishables, medicine, liquor, cash, credit or debit cards, jewelry, gold, silver, or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments, records or other valuable or business documents, laptop computers, cellular telephones, cameras, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs, scooters, or other video or electronic equipment, binoculars, film, videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes or cds. (Remember that checked baggage might not be accessible at all times.) Holland America assumes no responsibility for the items listed above.

(I underlined and bolded the word within the quote.)

Have the cruise documents changed as to what is spelled out in the rules, or has it been a hit or miss change, like the shorts in the dining room & the elimination of suite perks?

[ryansmemom]

The reason mentioned HAL's changed liquor policy was not to start a discussion speculating on this subject. My aim is to keep things more abstract. I merely used it as an example of how the behavior of a few can cause consequenses to all of us. None of us know why the policy was changed and that is irrelivant to this discussion because it is a done deal and we are powerless to change it. However, it is an example that we can all understand, because it hits close to home.

If you stop and think about it, this thought process can be applied to many of the explosive topics we discuss here on this message board. It really helps to keep it abstract and not get into the individual items. The same principles apply. If you think about it and discuss it on an intellectual level we can all learn from each other and understand each other's point of view. We all have wisdom to share. We all do the things that are meaningful to us and make sense to us-Even if they don't seem that way to others.

Linda

[staufj22]

I merely used it as an example of how the behavior of a few can cause consequenses to all of us. None of us know why the policy was changed and that is irrelivant to this discussion


I'll have to disagree with you there. It is extremely important to know why the policy was changed, especially if you're going to use it as "an example of how the behavior of a few can cause consequenses to all of us".


*Abstract example here*
If, lets say, the reason HAL changed the policy is because the Euro is stronger then the Dollar. How is bringing cases of liquor going to be an example?

[stillfrantic]

Linda: I wasn't speculating why it changed, only asking how do we know it was changed. What I copied I got directly off the information for booked guests from the HAL website today. It clearly says to hand carry liquer and not pack it in a suitcase. So, everyone is here is telling me I can't pack alcohol, yet HAL is telling me I can.

[helenp2]

We sailed on the Summit this past Thanksgiving and in their liquor store, they advertised that if you saw it cheaper in port they would match that same price. So, they were selling Absolut Vodka liters for $5.99 with no premiums attached to take back to your room. When I asked how come they weren't charging an extra 20% for on board consumption, his answer was "they told us to sell all of our liquors for the same price and not to add a premium". He also went on to tell me that they are a private concession and do liquor sales for most of the major cruise lines (including HAL). Imagine my surprise when I sailed the very next month at Christmas on the Rotterdam and they not only did not charge a premium, they would not allow anyone to purchase liquor for in cabin use. Their manager was very upset, said they were losing big bucks due to HAL's policy and he thought they would probably drop HAL from their list of cruise lines that they service. Very confusing liquor policies on HAL.

[sail7seas]

We know it has changed because of all of us who have cruised and have experienced the change in policy. The written materials either have not been corrected or is it possible you are not reading a very current writing?


In any case, rest assured, the liquor policy has changed.

[stillfrantic]

That is what I was asking...is the change a change written in the document package or a difference you found upon embarkation? What I copied and pasted was retrieved from a current page on the official HAL website today under the tab "For Booked Guests." It was under the "10 most fequently asked questions" category. Like I said, everyone is saying HAL is telling us their rule and we should abide by their rule, but so far people here are the only ones who have said I couldn't. From what I read on the official website, they consider it among my most valued possessions.

[GAndie]

I'm just wondering what's wrong with abiding by the rules? You sign a contract with the cruise line and the contract has certain rules and policies that you agree to.

I find it dishonest and frankly I think people who think it's cool or their right to break the contract are acting like peasants and those people were relegated to the bowels of the ship back when cruising had classes.

I think HAL is probably one of the classiest lines around and that's why I choose to sail with HAL. I'd hope the other passengers had at least some self respect.

Why not just sail on one of the happy holiday cruise lines where the other riff-raff sail where people blatently break their contract?

I've never read about this type of behavior on Seabourne or Crystal Cruise lines. Maybe in the last 10 years HAL has taken on too much of Carnival's flavor.

[superstein61]

I don't believe that anyone said they wanted to smuggle alcohol on board so they could incovenience others by causing delays in the boarding lines or to get overly drunk by the pool.

Certainly any adult could get as much alcohol delivered to him just about anywhere on the ship to get as drunk as it takes to make a fool out of himself. And, in this age of terrorism that we live in, the inspecting of carry on luggage would continue even if there was no alcohol to smuggle.

I dont remember who said it and I am not going to go back to check but I still dont see how anyone smuggling alcohol is really "ruining" anyone else's cruise.

The kind of person that gets drunk and acts stupid will get drunk and act stupid whether he/she smuggles the alcohol or buys it onboard.

Just my opinion

Agreed JoeDog, agreed !!!!!!!

[sail7seas]

still frantic.....If, indeed, you truthfully are doubtful as to the reliability of the info provided here on this Board (and you most asssuredly have every right to doubt everything)....pick up your handy dandy telephone and call Seattle. That is where HAL has its headquarters. Someone/anyone/everyone there will be more than happy to assist with any questions you may have about any and all of their policies. You could take it up with them why their website has not been updated.

Here a few numbers you could begin with if you wish,

800-544-0443 Sales and Service
800-426-0327 Reservations
800-541-1576 Ships Services
800-637-5029 Public Relations

[superstein61]

I think the issue at hand is people smuggling food and beverages onto the ship against company policy and the affect this behavioir has on everyone else.

Linda

Linda, with all due respect, I don't see how me or someone else bringing on a couple 6 packs of Mountain Dew, or a bottle of rum and my blender has any affect on you and everyone else.

I am not setting up shop and selling my booze at a cheaper price than HAL. I am bringing it for my own consumption, because:

1. HAL doesn't offer Mountain Dew
2. I enjoy certain brands of Rum
3. HAL's drinks are overpriced

[superstein61]

Well, the smuggling food on issue....why would HAL care, and why would anyone need to? Alcohol I can see as a debate, but why would HAL care if I brought food onboard? It is all free onboard. I guess I am still confused.

Okay, now I will offer up another scenario for those who feel strongly that it is just plain terrible for me to take a small number of cans of a dark beer onboard for my husband to drink on our verandah. Have any of you gone 26 in a 25 MPH zone? Anyone actually received a ticket for speeding? What about being a day late on your car's state inspection? All of those things are actually laws and do truly endanger others on the road and sidewalks. Has anyone had a glass of wine with dinner and driven home? Again, putting others in danger. How is my Guiness Draught on my own verandah endangering anyone or compromising others enjoyment of their own cabins or public areas on the ship?

Excellent points Stillfrantic, excellent points !!!!!!!

[staufj22]

I'm just wondering what's wrong with abiding by the rules? You sign a contract with the cruise line and the contract has certain rules and policies that you agree to.

I find it dishonest and frankly I think people who think it's cool or their right to break the contract are acting like peasants and those people were relegated to the bowels of the ship back when cruising had classes.

I think HAL is probably one of the classiest lines around and that's why I choose to sail with HAL. I'd hope the other passengers had at least some self respect.

Why not just sail on one of the happy holiday cruise lines where the other riff-raff sail where people blatently break their contract?

I've never read about this type of behavior on Seabourne or Crystal Cruise lines. Maybe in the last 10 years HAL has taken on too much of Carnival's flavor.


Oh my.. peasants? Honestly, the word that came to mind when I read your comment was.. "smug". No offense, I just don't think of myself as that much higher then everyone else. Maybe because I don't have a drop of royal blood in me.

As in a previous posting... everyone who drives signed a contract to obey the posted speed limit. How many of us still only take the speed limit as a suggestion? I guess those of us are peasants as well.
I have to also admit, I sometimes walk acorss the street when the cross walk signal is red.
Let me ask you, sir, when your driver decides to go a mile or 2 above the posted speed limit, do you cast him/her as a peasant and outcast them to the country side?

[superstein61]

I'm just wondering what's wrong with abiding by the rules? You sign a contract with the cruise line and the contract has certain rules and policies that you agree to.

I find it dishonest and frankly I think people who think it's cool or their right to break the contract are acting like peasants and those people were relegated to the bowels of the ship back when cruising had classes.

I think HAL is probably one of the classiest lines around and that's why I choose to sail with HAL. I'd hope the other passengers had at least some self respect.

Why not just sail on one of the happy holiday cruise lines where the other riff-raff sail where people blatently break their contract?



Sounds like you need schooled in the well popular art of bringing your blender aboard :)

Seriously, tell me you never broke a single rule in your life.

Tell me you never went a mile over the speed limit.

Tell me you never coasted thru a stop sign instead of coming to a full and complete stop for 2 seconds

Tell me you never went thru the express checkout with one item over the limit

I could go on - but I hear my fellow riff raff calling me :) - maybe they are having a party !!!

[Vicar]

GAndie

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Let me see ..
You claim that bringing liquor on board is a sign of being "Carnival Riff Raff " behavior .

And yet the bringing on of liquor problem has become such on HAL that they have had to make stricter policies regarding this matter.

Wouldn't that mean that there is just as much Riff Raff on HAL as there is on Carnival.

TO ALL THE GREAT PEOPLE I HAVE MET ON THIS BOARD PLEASE DO NOT TAKE OFFENSE, I WAS JUST TRYING TO MAKE A POINT TO THIS ONE POSTER!!

Plus GAndie asked if they have these problems on Seabourn or Sliversea.
Well I am not certain but don't those lines include ALL beverages in the prices of their cruises ?

I have seen their prices ...and if the dont, they should *LOL*

[lddam]

I was once taught that my right to swing my arm stops an inch and a half from someone else's nose. At that point, I'm infringing upon their rights; hence, placing me in the position of being in the wrong. I think that lesson can be applied to this discussion. HAL has the right to establish any and all rules and regulations it deems appropriate for its product. By extension, it also has the right to institute whatever measures it deems appropriate to enforce those rules and regulations. HAL, in my judgment, makes reasonable effort to inform passengers of what those rules and regulations are, and few if any passengers can claim ignorance. If one chooses to avail oneself of a HAL product, then that person does so with a moral and ethical obligation to abide by those rules and regulations. To do otherwise is immoral and unethical - plain and simple. Having a "rules are made to be broken" attitude evidenced by posts on this thread speaks volumes of one's value system.

Our responsibility rests in knowing what rules and regulations are in effect for a given product and then making an informed decision whether to book that product or not. We, as passengers, do not have the right to pick and choose which HAL regulations we will follow and which we will ignore. When we book a package, we book the entire package and live with the decision. If one believes that certain negative elements of a package are of such a magnitude as to affect one's sense of well being, then it behooves that person to seek out an experience which is more palatable. For many, the positive aspects of a HAL product more than compensates for the negative and continue to book with HAL. However, if enough passengers find HAL's regulations to be overly restrictive and choose other lines, then HAL will be forced to evaluate its policies in an attempt to reclaim its client base.

As an aside, many ports, especially in Europe, restrict items which are allowed to be carried off by cruise passengers, especially food items such as fruits, vegetables and "grain" products (breads, cakes, crackers, etc.). Although the cruise line may have no restrictions to taking food ashore, it may be simply enforcing local codes. It's always best to check before doing so.

Dave of ...

[Doristobill]

I'm confused. Is it OK to pack a bottle of vodka in my checked luggage to make a drink in the room or isn't it? It seems what I am reading is how to cheat if it's not OK. So if it's OK, why do I have to cheat?

[wdblake]

I would like to respond to the negative attitude towards those who bring their own alcohol on a cruise ship.
First of all I fail to understand the need to make personal slanders towards those who do this. Calling people peasants, smugglers, low class, cheap etc is a very small thing to do. It's a sad statement that a point can't be made without trying to make yourselves feel better at another persons expense.
That being said here is my take on the issue.

Smuggling is the transportation of "illegal" goods. Since the boat sells alcohol onboard it is not an illegal substance. Why then the no personal alcohol rule? One word...money. One of the biggest ways for a cruise ship to make money is through the sale of alcohol. Since bringing your own cuts into their profits it naturally benefits them to try to make a rule against it. They figure those who don't drink won't have a problem with it and those that do will suck it up and pay them. I personally don't believe I should be forced to buy ship only products. This rule is not established to protect passengers or provide safety its done merely to squeeze as much dime out of you thay can get. How would you like it if they told you you couldn't bring you own sun tan lotion but instead had to buy cruise ship lotion for $20 a bottle?

I have yet to see anyone flaunting their alcohol by the pool. My wife and I have brought our own to the pool. We keep it in a water bottle and mix our own drinks discretely. You may find this hard to believe but we don't stumble around with lamp shades on our heads, slurring our words, "ruining" others experience. If my quietly mixing myself a drink at my chair offends you then you have serious issues that extend well beyond this experience.

I also believe that trying to save money is not something to be ashamed of. My wife and I are quite frugal and it's because of this we are able to scrimp and save so we can cruise once and awhile. If you want to be some elitist then you should be sailing Crystal or Silver Seas so you truely can brag to your friends about how much money you spent on your cruise and how great your butler was and how you threw money around without a care.

Someone brought up not allowing someone to smoke in their office as a rule. But could you imagine if you charged someone five hundred dollars to sit in your office than told them they could smoke but only if they bought a pack from you for $10. How "moral" would that be.

Now about searching bags. Do you really believe that with 1000+ passengers they are going through everyones luggage looking for bottles? The reason it takes so long to get your luggage is that they have to deliver thousands of bags to their right rooms. This takes time. Also since 9/11 they have to check for items that might pose a security risk. People who bring their own on board are in no way affecting this process.

In closing I would like to say that if someone is not directly interfering with your cruise enjoyment what do you care what they do. The cruise ships don't need or want you to be their champion. They are not your hosts or your friends. They are in fact a business plain and simple and they will take anyones money as long as it is green. So sit back, relax, feel the warm ocean breeze and let the cruise ship people worry about who is doing what.
Just my two cents.

[stillfrantic]

S7S: I don't doubt your information. I have simply asked a couple of times where the written information is as the only written reference I can find says I can bring alcohol. I simply asked a question as to where I can read the official changed policy. Actually no one has answered that, but thanks for the phone numbers anywy.

Have any of you non "riff raff" posters ever taken a roll of breath mints into the movie theatre? What about forgotten gum in your purse or even cough drops? Please kindly deposit all items from your pockets and purses in the trash bin at the front door as the sign clearly says "NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR DRINK ALLOWED."

[stillfrantic]

Okay, finally I found more written information:

Bringing Alcoholic Beverages Onboard
Except for wine and champagne, alcoholic beverages purchased in the vessel's shops or otherwise brought on the ship cannot be consumed on the ship. Bottles and other containers will be collected for safekeeping and delivered to your stateroom on the last day of the voyage.

[superstein61]

Having a "rules are made to be broken" attitude evidenced by posts on this thread speaks volumes of one's value system.



And people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Unless you can tell me you have never, ever broken a single rule in your life, then please keep your holier than thou comments to yourself.

I have no problem with folks disagreeing with my stance - but you can do so without these types of comments - because I am sure you have broken your fair share of rules in your lifetime.

[superstein61]

I would like to respond to the negative attitude towards those who bring their own alcohol on a cruise ship.
First of all I fail to understand the need to make personal slanders towards those who do this. Calling people peasants, smugglers, low class, cheap etc is a very small thing to do. It's a sad statement that a point can't be made without trying to make yourselves feel better at another persons expense.
That being said here is my take on the issue.

Smuggling is the transportation of "illegal" goods. Since the boat sells alcohol onboard it is not an illegal substance. Why then the no personal alcohol rule? One word...money. One of the biggest ways for a cruise ship to make money is through the sale of alcohol. Since bringing your own cuts into their profits it naturally benefits them to try to make a rule against it. They figure those who don't drink won't have a problem with it and those that do will suck it up and pay them. I personally don't believe I should be forced to buy ship only products. This rule is not established to protect passengers or provide safety its done merely to squeeze as much dime out of you thay can get. How would you like it if they told you you couldn't bring you own sun tan lotion but instead had to buy cruise ship lotion for $20 a bottle?

I have yet to see anyone flaunting their alcohol by the pool. My wife and I have brought our own to the pool. We keep it in a water bottle and mix our own drinks discretely. You may find this hard to believe but we don't stumble around with lamp shades on our heads, slurring our words, "ruining" others experience. If my quietly mixing myself a drink at my chair offends you then you have serious issues that extend well beyond this experience.

I also believe that trying to save money is not something to be ashamed of. My wife and I are quite frugal and it's because of this we are able to scrimp and save so we can cruise once and awhile. If you want to be some elitist then you should be sailing Crystal or Silver Seas so you truely can brag to your friends about how much money you spent on your cruise and how great your butler was and how you threw money around without a care.

Someone brought up not allowing someone to smoke in their office as a rule. But could you imagine if you charged someone five hundred dollars to sit in your office than told them they could smoke but only if they bought a pack from you for $10. How "moral" would that be.

Now about searching bags. Do you really believe that with 1000+ passengers they are going through everyones luggage looking for bottles? The reason it takes so long to get your luggage is that they have to deliver thousands of bags to their right rooms. This takes time. Also since 9/11 they have to check for items that might pose a security risk. People who bring their own on board are in no way affecting this process.

In closing I would like to say that if someone is not directly interfering with your cruise enjoyment what do you care what they do. The cruise ships don't need or want you to be their champion. They are not your hosts or your friends. They are in fact a business plain and simple and they will take anyones money as long as it is green. So sit back, relax, feel the warm ocean breeze and let the cruise ship people worry about who is doing what.
Just my two cents.

Wdblake - BRAVO !!!!!!!!!!!

Very well said indeed.

I could see someone getting a little upset if I brought my blender and bottle of Rum poolside, asked HAL for an extension cord so I could plug it in, and whipped up my own libations but . . . .

Hmmm, come to think of it, I do have an extra extension cord at home. Lets see, throw that in the luggage as well and :) :) :) :)

[superstein61]

Have any of you non "riff raff" posters ever taken a roll of breath mints into the movie theatre? What about forgotten gum in your purse or even cough drops? Please kindly deposit all items from your pockets and purses in the trash bin at the front door as the sign clearly says "NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR DRINK ALLOWED."

Oh the horror ;) the non riff-raff breaking a rule. Please, tell me you jest. And don't forget the Tic-Tacs, M&Ms, after dinner mints, etc, etc. :) :)

[stillfrantic]

Superstein...if we ever end up on the same cruise, I'll share my Lifesavers if you'll mix me a drink poolside.

Seriously folks....is enjoying your favorite brand in your cabin really treason?

[superstein61]

Superstein...if we ever end up on the same cruise, I'll share my Lifesavers if you'll mix me a drink poolside.



You have a deal Stillfrantic !!! I'd be happy to :)

[NYteacher]

[QUOTE=stillfrantic]I just found this on the HAL website:

IMPORTANT: Do not pack your passport, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets. Keep them close at hand in your purse or jacket pocket. We also strongly suggest that you carry or otherwise keep with you important items such as perishables, medicine, liquor, cash, ....

In the cruise documents I received this past week they had actually whited out the word "Liquor." My DH used to work in printing and we were stunned at the thought of the cost of paying people to open the booklet and white out the word.

Interesting that they haven't thought to go to their own website.

[assam]

This discussion is fascinating to me. I find that these discussions about smuggling alcohol eventually parallel dress code discussions. Someone asks a rather basic question, others weigh in on the pros and cons, eventually someone invokes rules and regulations, others decry them. It culminates in denunciations of character and finally, the essential thesis emerges. Are you PLU? meaning, people like us... So, one is told to "get off home to ___________ cruise line where you belong." Or, "who do you think you are, shouldn't you be sailing on ___________________ cruise line where the nobs/snobs are?"

So, to save time, perhaps the next time anyone asks a question regarding smuggling alcohol, if one is against smuggling alcohol, simply say "Get thee to Carnival!" And if one is in favour of smuggling alcohol, simply say "If you disagree, scram over to Silversea where you belong!"

In the interest of self-disclosure, I have openly carried a bottle of champagne onboard. It was given to us by family in the UK, just before we boarded QE2, to celebrate our wedding anniversary. When we decided a few days later that we wanted to enjoy the champagne, we left a note for our steward asking him to have it on ice that evening at 7pm. So, that's my only experience with bringing alcohol on board.

Everyone else? I say, "get thee to Carnival!" ;) :p :)

[GAndie]

I'm sorry so many people think that it's okay to break rules and laws. Have I ever gone over the speed limit? YES...did I set out to go on a drive and break the speed limit deliberately? NO!

If people don't like the words "riff-raff" or "peasant" then the best thing to do would be to not ACT like "riff-raff" or 3rd class people or lower. It's your choice and using the excuse that EVERYONE does it doesn't make it right to do it.

I do NOT deliberately or consciously go about my life breaking laws or breaking rules because I want to save a couple bucks or "just because I could".

Maybe I am smug, I'm also proud that my children and family don't have to be ashamed of me if I get caught deliberately breaking laws.

Do what you want to do, I and other people have a right to our opinion about it though.

[staufj22]

Maybe I am smug, I'm also proud that my children and family don't have to be ashamed of me if I get caught deliberately breaking laws.

Do what you want to do, I and other people have a right to our opinion about it though.

They might be ashamed of your smugness... =) but I digress.

[superstein61]

I'm sorry so many people think that it's okay to break rules and laws. Have I ever gone over the speed limit? YES...did I set out to go on a drive and break the speed limit deliberately? NO!

Ahhh - the old I broke the rule but really didn't mean to syndrome. Sounds like a few children I know.

So tell me, after your speeding transgression, did you ever go over the speed limit again? WHoops, of course you did - but I am sure you really didn't mean to


Maybe I am smug, I'm also proud that my children and family don't have to be ashamed of me if I get caught deliberately breaking laws.



SMUG isn't the word I would choose :)

[stillfrantic]

If people don't like the words "riff-raff" or "peasant" then the best thing to do would be to not ACT like "riff-raff" or 3rd class people or lower.
I was always taught the word class was used by people who had none.

[helenp2]

I'm just wondering what's wrong with abiding by the rules? You sign a contract with the cruise line and the contract has certain rules and policies that you agree to.

I find it dishonest and frankly I think people who think it's cool or their right to break the contract are acting like peasants and those people were relegated to the bowels of the ship back when cruising had classes.

I think HAL is probably one of the classiest lines around and that's why I choose to sail with HAL. I'd hope the other passengers had at least some self respect.

Why not just sail on one of the happy holiday cruise lines where the other riff-raff sail where people blatently break their contract?

I've never read about this type of behavior on Seabourne or Crystal Cruise lines. Maybe in the last 10 years HAL has taken on too much of Carnival's flavor.

Did you notice anything wrong with the "old policy"? It is very clear and simple, this entire "new policy" was put in place for 1 reason and 1 reason only - $$$$$$$. Just like the new prices for the cabanas on HMC, a $$$$$ decision. Many ask "how come HAL allows wine and champagne"? Easy answer, $$$$$$ $17.25 to open a bottle of wine. Will they change this policy? Never!!!! Do they care if someone brings a case of wine on board?
NO!!!! They will make $207 for the privledge of you to open those bottles.
When it was posted to message boards that you could pre-order wines @ $14 per bottle, what did HAL do? Raise the price almost 25%!!!! Goughing??
Yes!!! Does this type of "customer service" help or hinder their bottom line? As long as people can continue to pack liquor in their checked luggage, and until HAL realizes they are "NOT customer friendly", this will go on for many, many years.

[GAndie]

My, my...so many people flame ME for my opinion! LOL
Can you spell "hypocrite"?

Bringing liquor onboard is against the rules, those who deliberately break the rules are...well...you fill in the blank. Inconsiderate of HAL's policy?, people who like to "live on the edge"?, People who have no respect for rules and laws?

I'm sure everyone has an excuse for breaking the rules...they usually do.

One can always tell when one hits a nerve. I suppose these same people who break the rules have their excuses for breaking many other rules too.

I'd rather be called "smug"...than "smuggler". I won't get kicked off the ship for being "smug". <G>

[ryansmemom]

Good Morning,

Wdblake, I agree with you. Name calling weakens any argument. No one has the right to judge anyone else. An argument that Superstein and many other make all the time on this board and rightly so.

I also agree, that as long as someone is minding their own business and not bothering anyone, no one should bother them. What they do is their own business and no one has the right to tell adults what they can and cannot do in their own private space, even if that space is in a public place, as long as no one else can see what they are doing.It's private. If you are in your cabin that you paid for, you should be able to do what ever you want to do as long as it does not harm anyone else. If you are at the pool and are having a drink it is no one's business what you are drinking.

However, if I do not allow smoking in my house and my son smokes in his room, he is smuggling the cigarettes into my house.

Also, HAL owns the ship, therefore, they get to make the rules. It doen't matter if you paid to be there or not, it's their turf.

With that said. I also beleive that was HAL' policy until a few month's ago. And then something happened to cause them to change that. They had the most liberal liquir policy of all of the mainstream cruise lines.In my opinion, they treated us like guests. like adults. Then the gate came crashing down.

Some think it was about money. Perhaps. On my last cruise in December, the Shore Excursion Manager said on board spending was low on Vista class ships. And cabin rates were low as well. Yet, they continue to spend money on other things. Hugh amounts of money. If it's money that caused them to do this, they are poor businees people and I don't think they are. But could be.

Some think it's people pushing the limits and bringing cases of beverages of all sorts on board. Drunken, unruly behavior, teenage drinking and other problems that were causing problems for security and disturbing to passengers and crew alike. This same Shore Excursion Manager told me about this problem. They did not like having to put people off the ship. That is not good for business either.

These are just two hypotheses. We don't know. We have a good discussion going here. Let's keep it going. I think we all agree more than we disagree.Can we just try to understand what seem to be two opposing points of view?

Let's keep it civil. No flaming. No name calling. We can do this.

Linda

[GAndie]

I apologize for my part in this.

[superstein61]

Good Morning,

Wdblake, I agree with you. Name calling weakens any argument. No one has the right to judge anyone else. An argument that Superstein and many other make all the time on this board and rightly so.

. . . . .. .


These are just two hypotheses. We don't know. We have a good discussion going here. Let's keep it going. I think we all agree more than we disagree.Can we just try to understand what seem to be two opposing points of view?

Let's keep it civil. No flaming. No name calling. We can do this.

Linda

Thanks Linda, I agree. Even though we disagree, we can disagree in a civil manner.

Yes, HALs old policy was very good - and if I had to hypothesize, I certainly believe the change came down to the almighty $$$ for HAL. Unlike a few other lines, I never read or saw large numbers of folks packing and sending coolers and cases full of beer and liquor onboard. Perhaps there were an isolated few per sailing, but I believe they were quite limited. So I believe it firmly came down to HAL just wanting to make more $. But thats just my opinion.

And as I said, and I think you agree, as long as I am drinking my drink in my cabin, or discretely bringing a glass of it to the pool, what other passenger is harmed?

Some may not want to bring their own drinks on board. Thats fine with me - I don't criticize them for it. But folks shouldn't criticize those with an opposing opinion who for whatever reason do like to bring their preferred beverage aboard

[wdblake]

I believe it was the rather uncivil posts that began this thread that started the heated debate. There are always going to be things about cruises and passengers that annoy us. I am annoyed by screaming children at poolside but I don't lump their parents into a group and refer to them as second class citizens. I have also ran into my share of obnoxious drunks onboard and have left it up to security to deal with them. It serves no purpose to try to belittle or lecture them even though I believe what they do is wrong.
A cruise to me is probably the most enjoyable vacation a person can take and it seems a waste of time worrying about what other people are doing.
A little tolerance goes a long way.

[Bry]

I have an interesting story that may or may not be on point. A few years ago my wife and I were set to go on another cruise line (one that did not allow alcohol brought on board--full discolure, RCI) and I happened to find out that they had a limited selection of bourbons available. I like a glass of bourbon after dinner.

So what was I to do, well I asked our TA who asked the line and somehow it was arranged that we would pay for a bottle to be delivered to our room. The cost was in line with market prices (I'm assuming it was market price with a small premium).

The point is that if you want dark beer or a particular brand of liqour or soda, it might be worth seeing if you can buy it through the line or otherwise get it delivered as a "bon voyage" gift. It may mean paying a premium but it gets you what you want. My impression is that most lines would participate in this kind of arrangement--it makes guests happy and they still get revenue off of the drinks.

As for wine, I've been told explicitly by the good folks at HAL that they have no intention to go into the aged or trophy-bottle business and (like any good land-based restaraunt) are happy to accomodate folks who want to bring wines aboard.

These are, I think, very different issues from smuggling liqour onboard that could otherwise be bought at the bars. I think all lines are going to frown on that. Not only does it deprive them of revenue, it also is a potential safety hazard (I have seen people refused further drinks on a cruise--meaningless if they've got another couple of fifths back in the cabin).

[Sailure]

Have any of you gone 26 in a 25 MPH zone?

DEFLECTION ALERT! ;)

What does that have to do with breaking HAL's or any other cruiseline's rules?

[lddam]

"And as I said, and I think you agree, as long as I am drinking my drink in my cabin, or discretely bringing a glass of it to the pool, what other passenger is harmed?"


I agree in that no other passenger is being harmed. But, that's not the point. The point is that HAL is being harmed. Of course the new policy is to generate additional $$$$$ for HAL. They are, after all, a profit-making corporation and the goal of the enterprise is to make a profit. If you diminish their rightful opportunity to do so by "smuggling" contraband onboard, then your activities in this regard is immoral and unethical. If you can't take the heat, then get out of the kitchen.

Dave of ...

[Sailure]

Hot dog! What a subject! Shall we start a thread on bringing irons onboard? Whoooeeeee!:eek:

[stillfrantic]

The point is that if you want dark beer or a particular brand of liqour or soda, it might be worth seeing if you can buy it through the line or otherwise get it delivered as a "bon voyage" gift. It may mean paying a premium but it gets you what you want. My impression is that most lines would participate in this kind of arrangement--it makes guests happy and they still get revenue off of the drinks.
Finally! Someone offering a real, viable alternative instead of instead of name calling. I loved your suggestion and have since faxed off my order! I thank you so much for providing help and not insults.:)

[KSCnCA]

What is the purpose of the CC Boards? To exchange ideas and hopefully give help to those who ask for it. If the question regards advice on "smuggling" something onboard that is not dangerous or harmful then either give some advice or not. Nobody ever asked if others should judge the actions. If that is the case we can start another thread on rude and obnxious behavior to be judged and see how much serious participation you get. Cruising is fun, anticipating cruising is fun, and in my opinion that is what most CC participants are looking for here: fun. Lighten up!!!:)

[ryansmemom]

What is the purpose of the CC Boards? To exchange ideas and hopefully give help to those who ask for it. If the question regards advice on "smuggling" something onboard that is not dangerous or harmful then either give some advice or not. Nobody ever asked if others should judge the actions. If that is the case we can start another thread on rude and obnxious behavior to be judged and see how much serious participation you get. Cruising is fun, anticipating cruising is fun, and in my opinion that is what most CC participants are looking for here: fun. Lighten up!!!:)

Hi and welcome.

I don't know if you have read through all of this thread, but this has been a very hot topic on this board. We have been having a very good conversation here for a couple of days now and we have been learning a lot.

No judging. no flaming, keep it civil.

We are learning a lot. People are sharing their point of view and ideas. In my opinion, it's far from dull. I've noticed that some new people have joined in. It's great.

Why don't you join us.

I love this. We are talking and learning and it is fun! No fireworks. Let's save them for our 4th of July celebrations.

Linda

[Sailure]

And people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Unless you can tell me you have never, ever broken a single rule in your life, then please keep your holier than thou comments to yourself.

I have no problem with folks disagreeing with my stance - but you can do so without these types of comments - because I am sure you have broken your fair share of rules in your lifetime.
Hmmm, I don't particularly care what anyone does as long as it doesn't affect me and the vacation I paid for. I don't see the excuse that "everybody does it" is a valid excuse either. My students used to try that one on me! It didn't work then and it doesn't work now! LOL

Let's be honest we bring our own booze against the rules because we think we're going to be drinking much more than what we want to pay for on the ship. We're cheating the cruiseline. We get pretty darned good rates for a vacation that includes a lot of food, entertainment and downright fun, but we feel we get a thrill from cheating the big bad company out of something that is rightfully theirs...no?

As far as saying that we do it because they don't have our brand of gin or vodka is a crock. When we're invited to a party where the booze is supplied, we drink what they have. When we go to a restaurant and we order drinks we don't bring our own bottle if they don't have our favorite. Do we?

[superstein61]

"And as I said, and I think you agree, as long as I am drinking my drink in my cabin, or discretely bringing a glass of it to the pool, what other passenger is harmed?"


I agree in that no other passenger is being harmed. But, that's not the point. The point is that HAL is being harmed. Of course the new policy is to generate additional $$$$$ for HAL. They are, after all, a profit-making corporation and the goal of the enterprise is to make a profit. If you diminish their rightful opportunity to do so by "smuggling" contraband onboard, then your activities in this regard is immoral and unethical. If you can't take the heat, then get out of the kitchen.

Dave of ...


UMMMMMMMMMMM, wrong.

You missed the point by a mile. There are several reasons why people bring their own beverage aboard.

1. HAL doesn't stock it (ie Mountain Dew or my favorite brand of RUM)
2. Convenience
3. To save a few bucks

FOr me - to save a few bucks is actually last on the list. Is it a factor - YES, if HAL would charge reasonable prices, maybe I would buy more drinks from them but since they want to price gouge, its their loss.

But my main reason is I bring what I like to drink - Because they do not have it !!!!!

And the point is why are some folks like yourself so judgemental about others who carry their favorite beverage aboard? Jealousy? A belief you are better than others? Surely you have broken NUMEROUS rules in your life - so please drop the "immoral and unethical " holier than though attitude.

[superstein61]

Hmmm, I don't particularly care what anyone does as long as it doesn't affect me and the vacation I paid for.

Well if you truly believe this (and I hope you do), then why the concern as you go on about others carrying their own drinks (and I am not just talking booze) onboard?





Let's be honest we bring our own booze against the rules because we think we're going to be drinking much more than what we want to pay for on the ship. We're cheating the cruiseline. We get pretty darned good rates for a vacation that includes a lot of food, entertainment and downright fun, but we feel we get a thrill from cheating the big bad company out of something that is rightfully theirs...no?

As far as saying that we do it because they don't have our brand of gin or vodka is a crock. When we're invited to a party where the booze is supplied, we drink what they have. When we go to a restaurant and we order drinks we don't bring our own bottle if they don't have our favorite. Do we?

Ahhh - sorry, it isn't a crock.

When it comes to soft drinks, I love Mountain Dew. My daughter loves Root Beer. As far as I know, HAL stocks neither. Your choice is Coke or umm Coke (and maybe sprite or something similiar).


Plus I don't really enjoy hanging out in a bar. So I would much rather have the convenience of having what I want to drink in my cabin - plus I can always discreetly take a glass of it to the pool.

As far as $$$, sure the high price HAL charges is a factor to some (and I am sure I would buy a bit more from HAL if their prices were reasonable - but they are not)

So it comes back to I will do what I enjoy and it won't impact you in the least. So no need for you to be concerned, right :)

[Sailure]

UMMMMMMMMMMM, wrong.

You missed the point by a mile. There are several reasons why people bring their own beverage aboard.

1. HAL doesn't stock it (ie Mountain Dew or my favorite brand of RUM)
2. Convenience
3. To save a few bucks

FOr me - to save a few bucks is actually last on the list. Is it a factor - YES, if HAL would charge reasonable prices, maybe I would buy more drinks from them but since they want to price gouge, its their loss.

But my main reason is I bring what I like to drink - Because they do not have it !!!!!

And the point is why are some folks like yourself so judgemental about others who carry their favorite beverage aboard? Jealousy? A belief you are better than others? Surely you have broken NUMEROUS rules in your life - so please drop the "immoral and unethical " holier than though attitude.
Ahh come on..why would anyone be JEALOUS? The prices on the cruiselines are about the same as any restaurant you would go to and sometimes even less expensive.

Convenience? What could be more convenient than calling 24 hour room service and having your drink delivered to you or mixing one yourself from the fully stocked bar in your room?

Do you really think that because some people feel that the rules are there and they think they should be followed is because they think they're better than others?

There have been zillions of posts replying to others who have asked what the prices are for drinks onboard so it's not like we don't have the opportunity to make our adjustments in our vacation plans to budget for life aboard the ship.

We're not going to smuggle on our horse because we want to go horseback riding in Cozumel or wherever we go horseback riding, we're not going to bring our own bicycles so we can save a few bucks from being "gouged" to go bike riding.

[superstein61]

Ahh come on..why would anyone be JEALOUS? The prices on the cruiselines are about the same as any restaurant you would go to and sometimes even less expensive.

I don't know - I am asking lddam why he has his panties in a bunch over what I and others do. Shoot, when he says "your activities in this regard is immoral and unethical. If you can't take the heat, then get out of the kitchen" he must have some reason for doing so. I am just trying to find out what it is. Jealousy??? A belief he is better than others ???? Or I could list a few others - however I am trying to keep the thread civil :)



Convenience? What could be more convenient than calling 24 hour room service and having your drink delivered to you or mixing one yourself from the fully stocked bar in your room?

Pouring one from my own bottle - no wait - and I get EXACTLY what I want !!!



Do you really think that because some people feel that the rules are there and they think they should be followed is because they think they're better than others?

Ummmm - see above ====> I don't know - I am asking lddam why he has his panties in a bunch over what I and others do. Shoot, when he says "your activities in this regard is immoral and unethical. If you can't take the heat, then get out of the kitchen" he must have some reason for doing so. I am just trying to find out what it is. Jealousy??? A belief he is better than others ???? Or I could list a few others - however I am trying to keep the thread civil :)

There have been zillions of posts replying to others who have asked what the prices are for drinks onboard so it's not like we don't have the opportunity to make our adjustments in our vacation plans to budget for life aboard the ship.

We're not going to smuggle on our horse because we want to go horseback riding in Cozumel or wherever we go horseback riding, we're not going to bring our own bicycles so we can save a few bucks from being "gouged" to go bike riding.

And your point is ?????

Oh, and isn't it ironic that you just ignored these factors:

1. When it comes to soft drinks, I love Mountain Dew. My daughter loves Root Beer. As far as I know, HAL stocks neither. Your choice is Coke or umm Coke (and maybe sprite or something similiar).

2. I don't really enjoy hanging out in a bar.


And most importantly - you ignored answering this question:


Originally Posted by Sailure
Hmmm, I don't particularly care what anyone does as long as it doesn't affect me and the vacation I paid for.


Well if you truly believe this (and I hope you do), then why all of your concern as you go on about others carrying their own drinks (and I am not just talking booze) onboard? Seems you say one thing but don't really mean it

[catlib55]

With all the shore excursions that offer "free rum punch" or "free margaritas" why would anyone need to bring their own booze?

One reason I love cruising is because it is the only "real vacation" we get, where neither of us has to do a thing except show up for meals at a certain time. If I want to sit in a deck chair all day, I do that. If I want to participate in some of the activities offered onboard or on shore, I do that. It is my choice. It is the best vacation around as far as I am concerned.

On the Statendam, we took the "Snorkel & Sail Fiesta" excursion, and were offered free Margaritas onboard the catamaran (as many as we wanted.)

On the Fantasy last January, we took the Yellowbird Party Boat out of Nassau, and were offered free rum punch on board the boat (as many as we wanted).

Plus, on any given night in some of the lounges, 2 for 1 drinks are offered. We took advantage of this on many occasions, although we didn't stick strictly to it. If we were in the Piano Bar on the Statendam and the 2 for 1 drinks were offered only in the Crow's Nest lounge, we didn't get up and walk out of the Piano Bar. It was our favorite place on that ship.

Why would we need to bring our own?

'Til we sail on Rotterdam,

Mary Ellen

[superstein61]

With all the shore excursions that offer "free rum punch" or "free margaritas" why would anyone need to bring their own booze?

Ummmmm - sure if all you did was spend all 7 days of your cruise on that excursion.

Oh, and by the way - they aren't "free". Their cost is folded into the $110 per person you paid to sail on the catamaran

If I want to sit in a deck chair all day, I do that. If I want to participate in some of the activities offered onboard or on shore, I do that. It is my choice.
Mary Ellen

Yep - its your choice. And for some others, its our choice to bring our own beverage on board. Does that hurt you in some fashion? Does it conflict with your choices? I don't think so.

[RevNeal]

I could see someone getting a little upset if I brought my blender and bottle of Rum poolside, asked HAL for an extension cord so I could plug it in, and whipped up my own libations but . . . .

Hmmm, come to think of it, I do have an extra extension cord at home. Lets see, throw that in the luggage as well and...

If you bring that extension cord from home you'll need a type C or F (aka "Schuko"), adapter in order to plug it into the outlets which you'll find in the public areas of the ship. The type C adapter is pretty standard in most universal adapter sets because it will mate with the "Schuko" plugs. Also, if you want your blender to run correctly, you'll need a step-down converter to take it from 220 AC to 110 AC. :) :) :)

[Sailure]

I don't know - I am asking lddam why he has his panties in a bunch over what I and others do. Shoot, when he says "your activities in this regard is immoral and unethical. If you can't take the heat, then get out of the kitchen" he must have some reason for doing so. I am just trying to find out what it is. Jealousy??? A belief he is better than others ???? Or I could list a few others - however I am trying to keep the thread civil :)




Pouring one from my own bottle - no wait - and I get EXACTLY what I want !!!



Ummmm - see above ====> I don't know - I am asking lddam why he has his panties in a bunch over what I and others do. Shoot, when he says "your activities in this regard is immoral and unethical. If you can't take the heat, then get out of the kitchen" he must have some reason for doing so. I am just trying to find out what it is. Jealousy??? A belief he is better than others ???? Or I could list a few others - however I am trying to keep the thread civil :)



And your point is ?????

Oh, and isn't it ironic that you just ignored these factors:

1. When it comes to soft drinks, I love Mountain Dew. My daughter loves Root Beer. As far as I know, HAL stocks neither. Your choice is Coke or umm Coke (and maybe sprite or something similiar).

2. I don't really enjoy hanging out in a bar.


And most importantly - you ignored answering this question:




Well if you truly believe this (and I hope you do), then why all of your concern as you go on about others carrying their own drinks (and I am not just talking booze) onboard? Seems you say one thing but don't really mean it
My point is that by doing something that is against the rules and it causes delay for me and other passengers to get on the ship, if you end up falling overboard because you choose to stay in your room and drink, if you get drunk and disorderly (I'm speaking YOU in the general sense), then it DOES affect me and everyone else's vacation.

Bringing on your own soda and soft drinks is NOT against the rules, bringing on a bottle of champagne and wine is NOT against the rules. Bringing hard liquor onboard is against the rules and even describing it as "smuggling" is admitting you (generally) know it's against the rules. Also, people starting threads asking others how they can "SNEAK" on contraband such as booze KNOWS it's against the rules.

My concern is why do many people in general feel that by "pulling one over on the cruiseline" is such an honorable thing?

If you KNOW something is wrong, then you (generally speaking) HAVE to know, if not by your own intelligence, that there are MANY people who don't condone this, so why even ask the question unless you're inviting an argument? You (generally speaking) will NEVER convince those that don't agree with you that what you're doing will be greeted with cheer.

[RevNeal]

I don't bring booze aboard ship from home because doing so is: (1) a big hassle, (2) not a big savings, (3) unnecessary, and (4) against the rules.

1. It's a big hassle to go to the trouble of going to the liquor store to purchase a fresh, unopened bottle, then figure out how to secure it inside my luggage so that it will not leak all over all my stuff inside by bags, and then to worry about it leaking anyway while in transit.

2. Once one does all of the above, the amount of savings the effort brings is tiny, at best (especially so when compared to the cost of the cruise in the first place).

3. It's also unnecessary; if I want to drink gin and tonic in my cabin, I can order a bottle through ships' services for roughly what it costs on land.

4. I would have to answer to my own conscious if I were to bring a bottle of booze aboard in a willful, premeditated contravention of the rules. For me it would be a sin, and hence it would bother me, so I don't do it. What other people do, and how other people feel about it, is between them and God (or, if they don't believe in God, their own moral center -- assuming they have one).

[RevNeal]

I just finished reading part of this thread to my mother over the phone. She laughed and said: "Anyone who is such a lush that they feel the need to sneak booze aboard in order to save money on their bar bills should probably be attending the meetings of the Friends of Bill W."

Gotta hand it to Moms ... they always know best. Mine is no "tea-totaler" -- indeed, she's known her share of lushes, and joined them in their debauchery -- but she certainly knows absurdity when she sees it, too. In her opinion, this one takes the Rum Cake.

[stillfrantic]

Sailure: It is my understanding it IS against the rule to bring onboard your favorite soda. Also, you asked what going over the speed limit had to do with HAL. Simple comparison. Some were being quite sanctimonious that THEY would NEVER break a rule, even if it wasn't a law....that they followed rules. I simply asked if any of those people had ever gone 26 MPH in a 25 zone. That isn't breaking a rule, it is breaking the law, AND it puts me in far greater danger to have someone speed through my neighborhood than Superstein bringing his root beer and rum onboard. The whole extension card and blender at the pool thing does probably even out in danger to me being that pool deck is wet and the extension cord might not be UL Rated. So, Superstein, best leave the blender in your cabin. You can bring my drink up to me on deck!:) :D

[theduffys]

I am a scotch drinker. I like to have a drink in our stateroom while I am dressing for (late) dinner. I have always brought my own on all previous HAL cruises. On our cruise that sails, a week from today, (just a little excited) I have ordered a bottle from ship services. I did this because it provides me the most assurance that I will be able to do this as we "sail away". However, since our cruise makes three stops in Scotland and, since every stop offers a shore excursion to a scotch distillary--what do you think will be the hold up at the pier as the security people try to find all those "wee drams" everyone bought to "ward off the chill"?;)

[Joedog]

My point is that by doing something that is against the rules and it causes delay for me and other passengers to get on the ship, if you end up falling overboard because you choose to stay in your room and drink, if you get drunk and disorderly (I'm speaking YOU in the general sense), then it DOES affect me and everyone else's vacation..

Okay, by show of hands, how many people here were ever delayed getting on a cruise ship because someone in from of them in line was caught smuggling alcohol?

And even more unlikely, how many people here ever even heard of anyone falling overboard from a cruise ship because they got drunk in their cabin (on smuggled or legit alcohol)?

I was in the Navy 26 years and in all that time I was only on 3 ships where sailors went overboard and 2 of them jumped on purpose. Oh, and there was smuggled alcohol onboard those ships too.

It seems to me that there are 2 basic ideas being presented here. The first one is that smuggling alcohol is a violation of HAL policy and that willfully violating HAL policy is wrong. I agree with this 100% and also think that most people, even alcohol smugglers, think it is wrong too.

The 2nd idea is that if someone wants to violate HAL policy by bringing alcohol onboard that is a matter between them and HAL and other passengers should mind their own business. I agree with this 100% also.

This thread originally started by someone asking the best way to smuggle alcohol. Now in my opinion, people should only have replied to that if they had a good ideas or experience about smuggling alcohol, which was the topic of the thread.

When someone is asking advice on how to do something you (the collective you, not anyone in particular) should keep your moralizing to yourself and answer the question that was asked, period.

If you want to go on and on about how bad people are for breaking HAL rules about alcohol or anything else you should start your own thread about that and then people can chime in on that subject.

Right or wrong, the subject was "HOW TO BEAT THE BAR TAB?", not "IS IT WRONG TO BEAT THE BAR TAB?"

That's my opinion and I'm sticking to it.

Wow, I just had a great idea....I will start a new thread with the title...REAL EXAMPLES OF HOW MY CRUISE WAS RUINED BY PEOPLE BREAKING HAL RULES OF ALCOHOL SMUGGLING AND/OR FORMAL NIGHT DRESS VIOLATIONS.

[Cruiseoften]

I am a scotch drinker. I like to have a drink in our stateroom while I am dressing for (late) dinner. I have always brought my own on all previous HAL cruises. On our cruise that sails, a week from today, (just a little excited) I have ordered a bottle from ship services. I did this because it provides me the most assurance that I will be able to do this as we "sail away". However, since our cruise makes three stops in Scotland and, since every stop offers a shore excursion to a scotch distillary--what do you think will be the hold up at the pier as the security people try to find all those "wee drams" everyone bought to "ward off the chill"?;)

Like you 'theduffys', we've always brought Scotch and Gin on board. It's pleasant to enjoy a drink while getting dressed and before we join friends in the Ocean Bar for pre dinner drinks. You say you've ordered from Ship Services - please, how did you do that?.

I've just downloaded HAL's Gift Order Form but there's no mention of Scotch and Gin. It is mentioned that there is an *Extensive list available*- how does one acquire that list?

I'm sure you'll be able to shop at the various distilleries and would assume that your purchases will be held for you until the last day. Wonder if they will confiscate those adorable miniature bottles? ;)

Have a great cruise and enjoy the Rotterdam, she's one of our favourites. :)

[Cruiseoften]

I am a scotch drinker. I like to have a drink in our stateroom while I am dressing for (late) dinner. I have always brought my own on all previous HAL cruises. On our cruise that sails, a week from today, (just a little excited) I have ordered a bottle from ship services. I did this because it provides me the most assurance that I will be able to do this as we "sail away". However, since our cruise makes three stops in Scotland and, since every stop offers a shore excursion to a scotch distillary--what do you think will be the hold up at the pier as the security people try to find all those "wee drams" everyone bought to "ward off the chill"?;)

Like you 'theduffys', we've always brought Scotch and Gin on board. It's pleasant to enjoy a drink while getting dressed and before we join friends in the Ocean Bar for pre dinner drinks. You say you've ordered from Ship Services - please, how did you do that?.

I've just downloaded HAL's Gift Order Form but there's no mention of Scotch and Gin. It is mentioned that there is an *Extensive list available*- how does one acquire that list?

I'm sure you'll be able to shop at the various distilleries and would assume that your purchases will be held for you until the last day. Wonder if they will confiscate those adorable miniature bottles? ;)

Have a great cruise and enjoy the Rotterdam, she's one of our favourite ships. :)

[stillfrantic]

Cruiseoften: I have my list right here from where I placed my order from Ship Service just this week. They have item

#LPGT Gin & Tonic Package. $27.50 One bottle Beefeaters Gin and 3 cans of tonic.

#LPSS Scotch and Soda Package $27.50 One bottle of Cutty Sark and 3 cans of Soda Water.

Hope this helps!

Phone 1-800-541-1576
FAX 1-800-207-3547

I was requested to list credit card information and booking number.

[lddam]

And people who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Unless you can tell me you have never, ever broken a single rule in your life, then please keep your holier than thou comments to yourself.

I have no problem with folks disagreeing with my stance - but you can do so without these types of comments - because I am sure you have broken your fair share of rules in your lifetime.


Superstein61 -

I can't tell you that I have never broken a single rule in my life, but I can tell you that I have never KNOWINGLY cheated someone out of their rightful due or KNOWINGLY stolen money or services from anyone. My comments were not meant to project a "holier than thou attitude," nor were they meant to be condescending. If you look to the original post, the thread was established to respond to the concept of smuggling items on board. By HAL's policy, smuggling liquor onboard is against its policy and to do so diminishes its opportunity to make a profit. I should think that any rational person would conclude that such behavior is not in HAL's interest and is contrary to the passenger contract we all sign when booking. Thus, when we knowingly smuggle, we are, in fact, cheating HAL out of their due. Are you implying that this has no moral implications as to a person's character?

I wonder if you would so vigorously defend someone whose attitude concludes that it is perfectly OK to repeatedly steal your Sunday morning newspaper or shortchange you at the supermarket. By your logic, I see no difference between this and what others strive to do by cheating HAL out of its right to make a profit. Anyway you choose to "spin" it, cheating is still cheating, and a thief is still a thief. My "If you can't stand the heat, then get out of the kitchen" statement was meant to imply that if you can't face the truth of what smuggling indicates about your character, then don't commit the act. No amount of rationalization is going to change the reality of the nature of smuggling and of the smuggler.

As Beretta used to say, "If ya' can't do da' time, then don't do da' crime."

[Opinions]

I dont see how anyone smuggling alcohol has any effect on anyone else.

I'm not saying that it is right, I am just saying that other than lost revenues to HAL it is pretty much a victimless crime.

If HAL has to raise cruise prices because of lost revenue from smugglers then it's hardly a "victimless" crime...Guess who has to pay to make up those lost revenues.

[ryansmemom]

I have never understood the concept "victimless crime" I don't think that it exists. In my experience every "crime" always has at least one "victim". The person perpetrating the "crime".

I see this all the time.

Linda

[Joedog]

Ryansmom,

I can think of a few examples of "victimless" crimes, for example it some states and according to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, oral sex (even between married people) is illegal and engaging in it is by definition a crime. It's kind of hard for me to see who the "victim" is there.

However I do agree that if HAL is forced to raise prices because of loss of alcohol sales revenues caused by alcohol smuggling than that would NOT be a victimless crime. I don't know that that is now or has ever been the case though. But if it is or has, I am/was wrong to call alcohol smuggling a victimless crime.

[ryansmemom]

Ryansmom,

I can think of a few examples of "victimless" crimes, for example it some states and according to the Uniform Code of Military Justice, oral sex (even between married people) is illegal and engaging in it is by definition a crime. It's kind of hard for me to see who the "victim" is there.

However I do agree that if HAL is forced to raise prices because of loss of alcohol sales revenues caused by alcohol smuggling than that would NOT be a victimless crime. I don't know that that is now or has ever been the case though. But if it is or has, I am/was wrong to call alcohol smuggling a victimless crime.


Joe,

You have a fine mind. I don't know how much education you have had, but I am impressed with you. I am serious. I mean it and I have the training to know what I am talking about. You are engaging in some serious thinking here. And, I've watched you're thought process evolve.

I would like to have a face to face conversation with you one day. I'll buy the drinks. You are getting into heavy ethical and moral territory here. You are dipping your toes into the realm of just and unjust laws and people's rights and responsibilities in those instances and the role of governments in those instances. A very interesting conversation. A very hot topic of debate. Especially in the post WWII world.

I do think, however, that discussion is beyond the scope of this forum. But, I like the way you think.

Bravo!!



Linda

[iluvcruzin]

I just read through this whole thread. Whenever there is change.. people rebel. My thoughts on HAL's recent changes to the liquor policy - they are just getting inline with the other cruiselines. Same things go with the auto tips.

All the nonsense name calling is silly. All of the reaction came from ONE comment on those in the past bringing excessive booze on board ruining it for everyone (thus a change in policy). I didn't read it as people who BRING booze and break the rules are ruining anything. It's a matter of interpretation of the text.

No one here mentioned at all the possibility of a LIQUOR LICENSE change that may have caused the change in policy. Have you ever been to a wedding where they only allow you to bring your own wine and champagne and you must purchase mix drinks at their bar? I have. This is because of the rules of the Liquor License. I'm no expert on the laws of sea.. but my Dad owned a couple bars here and there are such rules.

Now.. Do I care that you bring your own?? Not really - it's your business and you are a grown up and can make that choice on your own. I'm too busy having fun on a cruise to play booze police and take notice.

[catlib55]

Oh, and by the way - they aren't "free". Their cost is folded into the $110 per person you paid to sail on the catamaran



Don't know what cruise line you use, but the excursion out of Aruba that we will be taking "Snorkel and beach getaway" is only $39.00 a person. We've never paid $110.00 a person for any shore excursion.

Sorry if my comments offended you.

[gizmo]

I can't agree with this and think you are way off base here with this "liquor License" thing. Each state in this country has their own liquor policy. This has nothing to do with a cruise ship selling liquor in international waters. The only policy change has been when the ship is DOCKED in Florida. Florida is enforcing a tax on any drink purchased. What other countries do when the ship is DOCKED I do not know. When a ship is in international waters they have no taxes to pay anyone.

I believe the cruise ships purchase their liquor DUTY FREE. Do you know what the mark up is on each drink? Plenty, a LOT more than any bar in this country. When I would buy a bottle in Hal's store, is was less than half and sometimes close to a third of what I pay in the US. Hal was still making plenty of money on these purchases.

I think if the cruise lines would lower their prices they would sell a lot more booze and still make their profit with volume. There would be a percentage of people who would not want to drag their own along if prices were better.
We used to buy a bottle of Bailey's from Hal's store for in cabin consumption. On our last cruise this was no longer available. Hal lost that profit they used to make for us.

[iluvcruzin]

I can't agree with this and think you are way off base here with this "liquor License" thing. Each state in this country has their own liquor policy. This has nothing to do with a cruise ship selling liquor in international waters. .
I don't think I'm way off base and I do know each state has their only policies. However.. if you could please provide some expert information on what the rules for pruchasing and selling liquor in international waters (not a novice interpretation), that would be of interest. What do cruiseships need to have in place in order to be allowed to provide alcoholic beverages on board?

I was talking about reasons for changing the rules on bringing booze onboard - not anything to do with prices, markups and taxes.. I really could care less about Hal's profit on alcohol purchases and that they don't offer certain brands. However, there's plenty of people here to contribute to your discussion that are more "onbase" of your mindset.

[gizmo]

I will see what I can find out. :)

[theduffys]

Cruiseoften,
I sent an e-mail to HAL Ships Services and the next day they sent me a list of all their bottle prices. I then called the 800 number they sent me and ordered a liter of Dewars for $35 (a $7 increase over my local store). The nice lady who took my order said the bottle would be waiting for us in our stateroom. She also said that the same brands can be ordered on the ship, at the same prices, from room service. This just seems so much easier then trying to wrap a bottle protectively in our checked luggage and then hoping not to be found out.
Hope this helps.

[sail7seas]

So this whole conversation about how to smuggle liquor on board the ship has been about saving $7.00 over liquor store prices?


That does put some perspective on some of the posts IMO

[ryansmemom]

Just an FYI:

From a recent (June 8) CC e-mail newsletter, a link to a CC tip page with all of the cruise lines policies on bringing alcoholic beverages on board. Before judging HAL as the big bad dragon, compare it to the others. And, I'm not just talking about the Carinival Corp. group.

Cruise Line Alcohol Policies (http://www.cruisecritic.com/tips/tipsarticle.cfm?ID=99)



Linda

[joeinwpb]

Hi Gizmo :)

Here is a federal government chart showing what is extracted on what is often called "The Sin Tax". There is a State tax also to factor in. I don't know how much it effects Alcohol, but Tobacco state tax is sky high.

Fed. Tax on alcohol has stayed constant, through the years Smokers are paying now, big time Big increase, and state tax is now huge, on a pack of cigarettes. We non smokers owe the people paying all that tax for us, a big debt of gratitude. Please don't quit on us. That's a lot of money.

http://www.ttb.gov/alcohol/info/atftaxes.htm#Tobacco] ( [url)

[theduffys]

So this whole conversation about how to smuggle liquor on board the ship has been about saving $7.00 over liquor store prices?


That does put some perspective on some of the posts IMO
My thought exactly.

[RevNeal]

Dewars for $35 (a $7 increase over my local store).

Based upon Christopher's listings (which he made last week for the purpose of comparing home prices with the prices in the Duty Free shops), Dewar's Scotch, 750ml, cost $41.99 at our local liquor store, not including tax and transport.

In other words, a liter can be purchased for LESS through ships' services than what I would pay for 750ml in Dallas.

:confused:

The quoted package deal for gin and tonic has similar figures. In Dallas, 750ml of Beefeater Gin runs about 31.99 (I prefer Tanqueray, but its more expensive). That's WITHOUT tonic. From Ships services you can get the gin AND the tonic for about $4 less.

Why break the rules and cause myself a guilty conscious (and run the risk of ruining my clothing through a leaky bottle) when what I'm smuggling aboard costs MORE than what I can buy from ships services? Sorry ... I'm not that enamored with trying to beat the system.

[HeatherInFlorida]

On another thread Linda suggested I take a look at this one and there went an hour!!! I'm not sure I agree with her concept of the thread, but it is very interesting all the same.

Joe in WPB, I love your Avatar! But I'm off point;). I no longer drink a drop. All of us are allowed a certain amount of alcohol in our lifetime and I consumed mine in the first half:) . But I remember it well and I always (as was allowed at the time) had a bottle in my cabin. I enjoyed having a drink before dinner. But I never dreamed of carrying a drink from my room to a lounge, the pool, etc.

However, it's important to mention that in those days we paid more for a cruise than we do today ... and I mean dollar for dollar. We got a little teeny cabin with no balcony and a minute bathroom and closets with curtains instead of doors and the actual dollar amount was more. But the cost of drinks was minimal. Cruiseships were known in those days (early 80's) for how inexpensive the mixed drinks, beer, etc., were.

What I'm trying to suggest is that in order to bring the cost of cruising down to a level where so many more people can now afford to cruise, the cruiselines were forced to make their profit in other areas such as drinks, tours, shops, etc. I know many people whose tabs at the end of their cruise closely matches the cost of the cruise itself.

So I don't think that it's unfair of the cruiselines to institute a policy that says we can't bring booze onboard. However, I also think it should apply to wine and champagne because I can't for the life of me see any difference.

So for what it's worth that's my take on the issue. You may well want to say "fine for you now that you don't drink". And you can say that. I don't blame you. If I still drank, though, I'd be more than happy to order from HAL and have it sitting quietly in my room waiting for me;).

And then there are the folks who just like to do stuff they're not supposed to do. But that's an issue for another day.:rolleyes:

[mariner]

Several waiters told me two years ago the booze ban was coming to:
Get people to spend money at the bars! Who'd a thunk it.

With the new tipping policy, it also allows the BLD crew to boost their salaries.

I'd like to think if HAL LOWERED the drink prices to a more responsible markup, fewer people would haul the liquor store aboard and patronize the bars, lounges and room service instead. That way, the fares could stay in line.

HAL's wine prices used to be quite reasonable and hauling some bottles from home just didn't make any sense. The prices have since gone up, but for what we pay for Opus aboard is still better than worrying about a suitcase full of red clothing.

I remember years ago when you could have bon voyage parties that the only way to celebrate was to bring booze aboard. Customs would not let the ships sell untaxed liquor in US ports.

[Cruiseoften]

Cruiseoften,
I sent an e-mail to HAL Ships Services and the next day they sent me a list of all their bottle prices. I then called the 800 number they sent me and ordered a liter of Dewars for $35 (a $7 increase over my local store). The nice lady who took my order said the bottle would be waiting for us in our stateroom. She also said that the same brands can be ordered on the ship, at the same prices, from room service. This just seems so much easier then trying to wrap a bottle protectively in our checked luggage and then hoping not to be found out.
Hope this helps.

Thank you for the info. Seems we're on the same wavelength! Just yesterday we picked up some Tanqueray and Dewars - 750ml bottles - CA$23.45 and CA$22.25 respectively. No doubt now that we'll call Ships Services and order our cabin supplies. Even with the exchange rate (which is improving :p ;) ) we'll be in good shape for our 'getting dressed' drinks. Paying a little more for comfort and convenience is not a problem. We'll still frequent the Ocean Bar, Explorers, Crows Nest etc. Now if HAL carried Schweppes tonic we'd be in perfect shape.............. :cool:

[FoxyTerrier]

Based upon Christopher's listings (which he made last week for the purpose of comparing home prices with the prices in the Duty Free shops), Dewar's Scotch, 750ml, cost $41.99 at our local liquor store, not including tax and transport.



WOW - Liquor must be really expensive in Dallas. I live in Maryland and I think prices are a lot less here. I've grabbed the newspaper and checked prices at several places including county owned stores:

Dewars is priced between $25-26 for a 1.75 bottle
Bacardi $15 for a 1.75 bottle
Absolute $28 for a 1.75 bottle

We normally drink rum or vodka and the prices I have seen from ships services is $25 for Bacardi for a one liter bottle.

The ship store used to sell both Bacardi and Absolute one liter for $9 or $10 - They are now charging 150% more for the same size bottle.

If you are paying $42 + tax for a 750ml bottle you are getting ripped off or there is a huge difference for that part of the country.

[joeinwpb]

Thanks Heather. I like your avatar also.

Glad your enjoying this thread. I started it but have refrained from joining in as some people are getting enthusiastic about the subject. My favorite threads are the smoking ones. Boy they are funny.

Heather: Come join us on the Floridian thread. I'm the only one in So. Florida on it. They're all nice people.

Rev Neal I lost that old time radio address ... Please?

Now back to our regular programming. I believe we left off with someone saying ...
"Let's hog-tie that smuggler, and throw him in the brig".
:D :D

[Sailure]

Hot dog! All it takes is ONE question to set everyone off! I agree with Linda (I think) some of these opinions can really take off into moral, legal and political issues.

Personally, I think a lot of people are just fed up with a lot of things and are ready to draw the line in the sand!

Hey, if anyone wants to break the rules, cheat anybody, feel good because they can get away with something and save a few silly dollars, and pull one over....GO FOR IT! Enjoy your cruise, have fun and the heck with anyone else!;)
I think Revneal's mom is cool!:)

[superstein61]

If you bring that extension cord from home you'll need a type C or F (aka "Schuko"), adapter in order to plug it into the outlets which you'll find in the public areas of the ship. The type C adapter is pretty standard in most universal adapter sets because it will mate with the "Schuko" plugs. Also, if you want your blender to run correctly, you'll need a step-down converter to take it from 220 AC to 110 AC. :) :) :)

Darn - sounds like a lot of extra equipment. I have a better idea - I will just have to find someone with a cabing close to the pool and run an extension cord from their cabin :) Much more convenient - and I am sure they won't mind :)

[superstein61]

My point is that by doing something that is against the rules and it causes delay for me and other passengers to get on the ship, if you end up falling overboard because you choose to stay in your room and drink, if you get drunk and disorderly (I'm speaking YOU in the general sense), then it DOES affect me and everyone else's vacation.

Ahhh - how does it delay you????? if you are there in time at the port, the ship isn't going to leave without you - so scratch that one of your silly list.

As far as getting drunk - I have seen plenty of folks get drunk drinking the cruise lines booze. Doesn't matter if one drinks their own booze or the cruise lines - they can get drunk if they don't drink responsibly. So scratch another one of your silly list




Bringing on your own soda and soft drinks is NOT against the rules, bringing on a bottle of champagne and wine is NOT against the rules. Bringing hard liquor onboard is against the rules and even describing it as "smuggling" is admitting you (generally) know it's against the rules. Also, people starting threads asking others how they can "SNEAK" on contraband such as booze KNOWS it's against the rules.

My concern is why do many people in general feel that by "pulling one over on the cruiseline" is such an honorable thing?

Ummm - the crusie lines do also restrict soft drinks. The only thing they do allow is wine and champagne - and that is becaue of their profit motie. They know if you bring your own wine - they will charge you $17.50 for the priviliege of opening it. Yea - what a deal.

And I myself never called it "smuggling". I call it excercising my freedom of choice

If you KNOW something is wrong, then you (generally speaking) HAVE to know, if not by your own intelligence, that there are MANY people who don't condone this, so why even ask the question unless you're inviting an argument? You (generally speaking) will NEVER convince those that don't agree with you that what you're doing will be greeted with cheer.

And if you don't like people doing this, why bother addressing them as YOU will never change anyone's minds with your silly, specious arguements

[superstein61]

I don't bring booze aboard ship from home because doing so is: (1) a big hassle, (2) not a big savings, (3) unnecessary, and (4) against the rules.


Ahhhh - you've got a lot to learn Rev, a LOT to learn

[superstein61]

I just finished reading part of this thread to my mother over the phone. She laughed and said: "Anyone who is such a lush that they feel the need to sneak booze aboard in order to save money on their bar bills should probably be attending the meetings of the Friends of Bill W."

Gotta hand it to Moms ... they always know best. Mine is no "tea-totaler" -- indeed, she's known her share of lushes, and joined them in their debauchery -- but she certainly knows absurdity when she sees it, too. In her opinion, this one takes the Rum Cake.

Whats absurd is your mother judging someone as a Lush from a few words on a message board. My guess is from your comments, your mother drinks far more than I do in a year. So its real funny seeing her comments. Thanks for my laugh today Rev

[stillfrantic]

When items are ordered to be delivered in either the dining room or the cabin, does HAL send a receipt or otherwise acknowlege the faxed order?

[superstein61]

Sailure: It is my understanding it IS against the rule to bring onboard your favorite soda. Also, you asked what going over the speed limit had to do with HAL. Simple comparison. Some were being quite sanctimonious that THEY would NEVER break a rule, even if it wasn't a law....that they followed rules. I simply asked if any of those people had ever gone 26 MPH in a 25 zone. That isn't breaking a rule, it is breaking the law, AND it puts me in far greater danger to have someone speed through my neighborhood than Superstein bringing his root beer and rum onboard. The whole extension card and blender at the pool thing does probably even out in danger to me being that pool deck is wet and the extension cord might not be UL Rated. So, Superstein, best leave the blender in your cabin. You can bring my drink up to me on deck!:) :D

Stillfrantic - yes, I forgot about the old safety factor. I better look for a battery operated blender - or just have to resort to leaving the old Blender in my cabin and mixing up my libations there. No problem - a little exercise now and then isn't bad :)

And yes - the comment referring to the speed limit is definitely apropos to those sanctimonious few here who seem so bent out of shape at folks GHASP taking on their own bottle of rum and a few favorite soft drinks

[Sailure]

Ahhh - how does it delay you????? if you are there in time at the port, the ship isn't going to leave without you - so scratch that one of your silly list.

As far as getting drunk - I have seen plenty of folks get drunk drinking the cruise lines booze. Doesn't matter if one drinks their own booze or the cruise lines - they can get drunk if they don't drink responsibly. So scratch another one of your silly list



Ummm - the crusie lines do also restrict soft drinks. The only thing they do allow is wine and champagne - and that is becaue of their profit motie. They know if you bring your own wine - they will charge you $17.50 for the priviliege of opening it. Yea - what a deal.

And I myself never called it "smuggling". I call it excercising my freedom of choice



And if you don't like people doing this, why bother addressing them as YOU will never change anyone's minds with your silly, specious arguements
Does this fall into the catagory about ignoring trolls?;)

[superstein61]

Okay, by show of hands, how many people here were ever delayed getting on a cruise ship because someone in from of them in line was caught smuggling alcohol?

And even more unlikely, how many people here ever even heard of anyone falling overboard from a cruise ship because they got drunk in their cabin (on smuggled or legit alcohol)?

I was in the Navy 26 years and in all that time I was only on 3 ships where sailors went overboard and 2 of them jumped on purpose. Oh, and there was smuggled alcohol onboard those ships too.

It seems to me that there are 2 basic ideas being presented here. The first one is that smuggling alcohol is a violation of HAL policy and that willfully violating HAL policy is wrong. I agree with this 100% and also think that most people, even alcohol smugglers, think it is wrong too.

The 2nd idea is that if someone wants to violate HAL policy by bringing alcohol onboard that is a matter between them and HAL and other passengers should mind their own business. I agree with this 100% also.

This thread originally started by someone asking the best way to smuggle alcohol. Now in my opinion, people should only have replied to that if they had a good ideas or experience about smuggling alcohol, which was the topic of the thread.

When someone is asking advice on how to do something you (the collective you, not anyone in particular) should keep your moralizing to yourself and answer the question that was asked, period.

If you want to go on and on about how bad people are for breaking HAL rules about alcohol or anything else you should start your own thread about that and then people can chime in on that subject.

Right or wrong, the subject was "HOW TO BEAT THE BAR TAB?", not "IS IT WRONG TO BEAT THE BAR TAB?"

That's my opinion and I'm sticking to it.

Wow, I just had a great idea....I will start a new thread with the title...REAL EXAMPLES OF HOW MY CRUISE WAS RUINED BY PEOPLE BREAKING HAL RULES OF ALCOHOL SMUGGLING AND/OR FORMAL NIGHT DRESS VIOLATIONS.

Wooo Hooo - well said JoeDog, well said. If you are ever on a cruise with me - let me know and I'll whip you up a few drinks in my trusty blender !!! :)

[superstein61]

Superstein61 -

I can't tell you that I have never broken a single rule in my life, but I can tell you that I have never KNOWINGLY cheated someone out of their rightful due or KNOWINGLY stolen money or services from anyone. "

OK - that says it all. You HAVE broken rules in YOUR life. Seems to me your own guilt is leading you to take this sanctimonious view of others who simply bring their own libations on board.

And hate to tell you - but I and others who do this are not stealing a dime from anyone !!!!! Stealing would imply that I take from someone that what belongs to them. I am doing no such thing. Its my liquor I am bringing on board, not HALs. If I didn't bring it, HAL would not own it. Nor would HAL own the money I would spend on it

So sorry - you are wrong once again. becoming a habit, isn't it

[gizmo]

joeinwpb,

Thanks for the link, interesting info, but it has nothing to do with international waters.

iluvcruzin,

I emailed a friend with Hal and he said they do not need to have anything in place to sell liquor in international waters. He also mentioned same thing goes for casinos, nothing needed to run a casino in international waters.

He did mention that the scuttlebutt was too many people were bringing booze on board and Hal felt they were loosing money.

[superstein61]

Now.. Do I care that you bring your own?? Not really - it's your business and you are a grown up and can make that choice on your own. I'm too busy having fun on a cruise to play booze police and take notice.

Terrific attitude to have. Wish everyone was like you instead of worrying so much about what others do

[gizmo]

We normally drink rum or vodka and the prices I have seen from ships services is $25 for Bacardi for a one liter bottle.

The ship store used to sell both Bacardi and Absolute one liter for $9 or $10 - They are now charging 150% more for the same size bottle.
Glad you brought this up.


I'd like to think if HAL LOWERED the drink prices to a more responsible markup, fewer people would haul the liquor store aboard and patronize the bars, lounges and room service instead. That way, the fares could stay in line.I am in total argreement with lowering the drink prices. I feel Hal would sell many more drinks and profit by the volume.

[superstein61]

WOW - Liquor must be really expensive in Dallas. I live in Maryland and I think prices are a lot less here. I've grabbed the newspaper and checked prices at several places including county owned stores:

Dewars is priced between $25-26 for a 1.75 bottle
Bacardi $15 for a 1.75 bottle
Absolute $28 for a 1.75 bottle

We normally drink rum or vodka and the prices I have seen from ships services is $25 for Bacardi for a one liter bottle.

The ship store used to sell both Bacardi and Absolute one liter for $9 or $10 - They are now charging 150% more for the same size bottle.

If you are paying $42 + tax for a 750ml bottle you are getting ripped off or there is a huge difference for that part of the country.

Agreed Foxy, agreed. I love it when people make comments with only a limited amount of facts and knowledge. Liquor prices differ across the US.

Plus - as I have stated beofre, price is just one factor for bringing your own booze on board. In fact, price is lower on my list than the others.

[superstein61]

Does this fall into the catagory about ignoring trolls?;)

Hmmm - not sure - I haven't ignored you yet - but perhaps I should be

[superstein61]

He did mention that the scuttlebutt was too many people were bringing booze on board and Hal felt they were loosing money.



Ahhhh, and there we have it - another Profit Motive move by HAL. Yippee

[gizmo]

Ahhhh, and there we have it - another Profit Motive move by HAL. Yippee
Argee, what other motive makes any sense?

[Sailure]

Hmmm - not sure - I haven't ignored you yet - but perhaps I should be
I take it you're one of the regulars here?:)

[HeatherInFlorida]

We went to join friends for a 4th of July BBQ. Not gone more than a couple hours. I return and I see dozens of new posts. In one hour's time Superstein has posted no less than 11 times. And angrier in each and every one. Maybe someone smuggled some booze into Superstein's BBQ.

The fact is we're not supposed to bring liquor on board. If you want to do it anyway, fine. If you're caught, it's gone.

There are rules on these boards, too, and one of them is not to lash out at others and make snide, nasty remarks. The same people who break that rule are probably the ones dragging bottles of booze into their cabins.

We all get our pleasure in different ways. I'm going to go watch the fireworks.:) Happy 4th of July to all.

[superstein61]

Argee, what other motive makes any sense?

TRUE :)

[superstein61]

We went to join friends for a 4th of July BBQ. Not gone more than a couple hours. I return and I see dozens of new posts. In one hour's time Superstein has posted no less than 11 times. And angrier in each and every one. Maybe someone smuggled some booze into Superstein's BBQ.

The fact is we're not supposed to bring liquor on board. If you want to do it anyway, fine. If you're caught, it's gone.

There are rules on these boards, too, and one of them is not to lash out at others and make snide, nasty remarks. The same people who break that rule are probably the ones dragging bottles of booze into their cabins.

We all get our pleasure in different ways. I'm going to go watch the fireworks.:) Happy 4th of July to all.

Me angry - LOL. I am in a wonderful mood. Maybe something from your friend's barbecue has clouded your thinking a bit. I am not angry in the least. Just responding to the wealth of comments on this thread since I was last here.

But hey - whatever floats your boat Heather.

Happy 4th of July to you and others as well

[RevNeal]

Whats absurd is your mother judging someone as a Lush from a few words on a message board. My guess is from your comments, your mother drinks far more than I do in a year. So its real funny seeing her comments. Thanks for my laugh today Rev

WRONG
Do not pass go, do not collect $200.

[Sailure]

WRONG
Do not pass go, do not collect $200.
...and he can no longer use the little top hat!:D

[superstein61]

Whats absurd is your mother judging someone as a Lush from a few words on a message board. My guess is from your comments, your mother drinks far more than I do in a year. So its real funny seeing her comments. Thanks for my laugh today Rev


WRONG
Do not pass go, do not collect $200.

Oh, but your mother can insult someone else??? Ahhh, I don't think so.

And I clearly must have struck a nerve - so I am pretty sure I am right and you are wrong Rev

[ryansmemom]

WRONG
Do not pass go, do not collect $200.


Insulting someone's mother is definitly below the belt. Deduct 10 points from Superstein's score.

Linda

[Sailure]

Insulting someone's mother is definitly below the belt. Deduct 10 points from Superstein's score.

Linda
Insulting ANYBODY personally is below the belt...someone's mother...even more so.

[superstein61]

Insulting someone's mother is definitly below the belt. Deduct 10 points from Superstein's score.

Linda

Just wait one second Linda. It was the dear Reverand who posted that his Mother called me and others who bring our own liquor on board LUSH's.

As you know, I advocate being civil to one another here even if one disagrees - but I am not going to sit by while The rev's mother calls me a lush.

And anyway - where is the insult of his mother. Here is what I said:

"Whats absurd is your mother judging someone as a Lush from a few words on a message board. My guess is from your comments, your mother drinks far more than I do in a year. So its real funny seeing her comments. Thanks for my laugh today Rev "

Add my 10 points back - and deduct 20 from the Rev for the poor manners of his mother

[stillfrantic]

If any one wants to insult someone, I'll offer up my mother in law. You all have at it!:eek:

Carry on!

[superstein61]

If any one wants to insult someone, I'll offer up my mother in law. You all have at it!:eek:

Carry on!

LOL :)

I will have to bring you 2 drinks for that one :)

[lddam]

Superstein61 -

You can rationalize it anyway you choose, but sneaking contraband on board diminishes HAL's opportunity to increase its profit margin. Like it or not, there are moral implications to such behavior, and failure to see that connection gives credence to those who complain that America's moral fiber is frayed. After rereading your posts, I've come to the conclusion that there is no reasoning with someone whose logic is as convoluted as yours.

By the way, you've failed to respond to the scenario of someone repeatedly stealing your morning newspaper. Would you defend their actions as vigorously as you defend cheating HAL, or is it only OK when you're cheating a faceless corporate entity?

On second thought, never mind responding. These new boards are wonderful. I've discovered that if I click on your screen name, I can access your member profile. On that profile screen is a marvelous little link entitled "Add Superstein61 to Your Ignore List," and that is what I intend to do immediately after posting this message. At this stage, your opinions are of little value to me.

Dave

[joeinwpb]

If any one wants to insult someone, I'll offer up my mother in law. You all have at it!:eek:

Carry on!

:confused: If we start insulting your mother-in-law, and it has a calming effect on you.
Will you still be frantic? :D

[superstein61]

Superstein61 -

You can rationalize it anyway you choose, but sneaking contraband on board diminishes HAL's opportunity to increase its profit margin. Like it or not, there are moral implications to such behavior, and failure to see that connection gives credence to those who complain that America's moral fiber is frayed. After rereading your posts, I've come to the conclusion that there is no reasoning with someone whose logic is as convoluted as yours.

By the way, you've failed to respond to the scenario of someone repeatedly stealing your morning newspaper. Would you defend their actions as vigorously as you defend cheating HAL, or is it only OK when you're cheating a faceless corporate entity?

On second thought, never mind responding. These new boards are wonderful. I've discovered that if I click on your screen name, I can access your member profile. On that profile screen is a marvelous little link entitled "Add Superstein61 to Your Ignore List," and that is what I intend to do immediately after posting this message. At this stage, your opinions are of little value to me.

Dave

Hey Dave

keep on riding your high horse and keep pretending you are the final word in these matters.

As I clearly expalined - your analogy is all wet. Comparing someone stealing my newspaper is far different that someone bringing their own drink on board.

You see - for it to be stealing - the item must belong to me. If I paid for my paper and someone stole it - thats theft.

But it is NOT theft to bring your own bottle on board a HAL ship and drink it. HAL never owned that bottle.

You want to argue HAl loses an opportunity to make a profit. true - BUT that isn't theft. And what is to say there is any guarantee I would purchase a drink from HAL ???? none - So HAL is losing nothing except some potential opportunity that may never occur. Not theft in the least.

And again - not on topic to the original post in this thread in the least.

Again - I ask you - why do you have your panties in such a knot over what someone else does?????

Now you can take your sanctimonious opinions and get back on that high horse you rode in on and sulk back to the stables. I think you may be in for a long night of shoveling.

[flatwallet]

Why is it so important to sneak, smuggle, hide in luggage (or whatever terminology) liquor on board a HAL ship (or any other for that matter)? I would just like to know the rationale for this.

[RevNeal]

Superstein61,

If, in any given day, you drink more than a whisky sour cocktail and a glass of wine with your dinner, you are drinking more than my mother does these days. To assert that she drinks more than you is both an invalid insinuation AND an unwarranted insult to which she, personally, has no option of rebuttal. You do not know my mother, have never met her, and if you did you would probably find her delightful; most people do. I don't think she has any enemies.

If you don't like my mother's opinion -- lightly offered, with a chuckle in her voice that reflected her often mischievous sense of humor (I get mine from her) -- then I'm truly sorry. Her remark wasn't directed at, or about, any one person; it was a general, non-specific, non-judgmental remark made without malicious intent. And, yet, your negative, accusatory response betrays (among other things) the precision of how she actually managed to paint those who are doing what you admit to doing. If you don't like that, perhaps you should take her advice. Friends of Bill W can always be found on HAL ships. It's never too late to turn over a new fig leaf.

[iluvcruzin]

Now back to our regular programming. I believe we left off with someone saying ...



"Let's hog-tie that smuggler, and throw him in the brig".
:D :D
Joe - I almost choked on my iced tea. - very funny!

iluvcruzin,

I emailed a friend with Hal and he said they do not need to have anything in place to sell liquor in international waters. He also mentioned same thing goes for casinos, nothing needed to run a casino in international waters.

He did mention that the scuttlebutt was too many people were bringing booze on board and Hal felt they were loosing money.
Thanks for finding out the scoop Gizmo!

There's some crazy stuff going on in this thread. Now I know Joe's purpose of starting this thread - pure entertainment. It's sort of like the smoking topic.. Is the babies wearing swim diapers in the ship pools the next one??

[stillfrantic]

There's some crazy stuff going on in this thread. Now I know Joe's purpose of starting this thread - pure entertainment.
I got my popcorn and lounge chair out long ago. I did love the suggestion to ask HAL for a special item if it wasn't offered on the order forms. I did that and am so glad it was mentioned. Now, if Superstein brings his own beverages, I do not care in the least. He'll enjoy what he brought, my husband will enjoy what I rightfully ordered from the company. Just because in the end Superstein and I went different ways doesn't change my opinion of him in the least. I don't watch the pool decks for brands which I suspect were not purchased on board. I save my butting into other's business for reporting the license plate numbers of those parent's who do not buckle their children into car seats. Now that is breaking a rule which does endanger an innocent person.

[superstein61]

Superstein61,

If, in any given day, you drink more than a whisky sour cocktail and a glass of wine with your dinner, you are drinking more than my mother does these days. To assert that she drinks more than you is both an invalid insinuation AND an unwarranted insult to which she, personally, has no option of rebuttal. You do not know my mother, have never met her, and if you did you would probably find her delightful; most people do. I don't think she has any enemies.

Hey Rev - I guess I was right on then. Your mother drinks far more than me. You qould be surprised to know that I drink very little. Christmas Party , New Years, a nice cold Franziskaner a few times a year, and on vacation. I come no where close to your mom having 2 drinks a day.

And my comments were pure facts - not any insult to your mother.

What I find unwarranted though is her judgemental assertion that people here who are arguing about bringing their own drinks on board are "Lushs". That is an unwarranted insult

If you don't like my mother's opinion -- lightly offered, with a chuckle in her voice that reflected her often mischievous sense of humor (I get mine from her) -- then I'm truly sorry. Her remark wasn't directed at, or about, any one person; it was a general, non-specific, non-judgmental remark made without malicious intent.

There was no chuckle in what I read. No note that the comment was lightly offered. If you want to express humor - please learn how to do so so that humor is clear. IMO, you, and your mother were making a very judgemental comment towards others here


And, yet, your negative, accusatory response betrays (among other things) the precision of how she actually managed to paint those who are doing what you admit to doing. If you don't like that, perhaps you should take her advice. Friends of Bill W can always be found on HAL ships. It's never too late to turn over a new fig leaf.

There you go with your judgemental approach again - assuming that everyone who brings their drinks on board is a lush or everyone who rebuts your statement should be attending AA meetings. It appears you still haven't learned a thing Rev. Which is especially sad coming from a man of the cloth.

Lets see - your mom - 2 alcoholic drinks per day x 365 days = about 730 drinks a year. Me - I am lucky if I have more than 30 alcoholic drinks a year.

Ahhhh - now it is clearer why you are so upset - its really your mom who needs the help, and she is just projecting her drinking problem onto others. Don't worry - as you said, it is never too late for your mom to turn over a new fig leaf

[superstein61]

There's some crazy stuff going on in this thread. Now I know Joe's purpose of starting this thread - pure entertainment. It's sort of like the smoking topic.. Is the babies wearing swim diapers in the ship pools the next one??

The baby diapers perhaps - but I think possibly the kids peeing in the pool is due to follow :)

[stillfrantic]

What I find unwarranted though is her judgemental assertion that people here who are arguing about bringing their own drinks on board are "Lushs". That is an unwarranted insult
Interesting! I also don't care who brings drinks onboard and would have brought for my husband so he could have a specific kind, yet I rarely, if ever, have a drink myself.

Seems those supporting a person's choice to bring a favorite brand of soda or alcohol on board aren't the ones drinking.

[superstein61]

I got my popcorn and lounge chair out long ago. I did love the suggestion to ask HAL for a special item if it wasn't offered on the order forms. I did that and am so glad it was mentioned. Now, if Superstein brings his own beverages, I do not care in the least. He'll enjoy what he brought, my husband will enjoy what I rightfully ordered from the company. Just because in the end Superstein and I went different ways doesn't change my opinion of him in the least. I don't watch the pool decks for brands which I suspect were not purchased on board. I save my butting into other's business for reporting the license plate numbers of those parent's who do not buckle their children into car seats. Now that is breaking a rule which does endanger an innocent person.

Thanks StillFrantic !!! Hope you have a wonderful cruise. I plan to - with my smuggled on rum and all. And perhaps now it is clearer to folks why people do this - especially in my situation where I drink so little throughout the year. I prefer a very specific rum which can't be found on board. So when I do plan to partake of a nice libation - I really want to enjoy it

[HeatherInFlorida]

Is it me?:confused: Are you all having fun with this? Because I just need to say I agree with Dave. And I don't understand why Superstein responded to Dave (negatively again; big surprise) when Dave clearly said he was going to "ignore" Superstein.

I've not been on these boards that long so many of you may be pros at this and see through to some humour. But to me, none of it's funny and none of it's productive. When I first read the thread I thought it was great! But it's become very nasty, IMHO.

Frankly, I found RevNeal's mom's comment very lighthearted and amusing and the only way I can imagine anyone seeing it as anything more than that is harbouring a small problem of their own. JMO.

I still go back to the premise that there are rules, laws and policies everywhere we go in this world. You can choose to break those rules, but please don't rationalize it and defend it and try to make yourselves right. So have at it and it's certainly fine with me; it's defending the action that I find amazing.

As far as HAL making a profit? Wake up call!! It's a business! I like the fact that they've lowered the overall cost of cruising. And we get to choose how much more we want to spend on a $10 picture of us, a $100/pp tour, etc., etc.

Been to a movie theatre lately? Try bringing food in and see what happens.

[BigDave]

Ahem...
A ship's cabin is not like a movie theatre, it's like a hotel. As long as I'm not doing something distructive, or dangerous to myself or another person it's none of thier business what I do in my room or what is in my suitcase.

p.s. I haven't brought alcohol onboard, but I see nothing wrong with ignoring rules which have no good basis other than picking your pocket.
Been to a movie theatre lately? Try bringing food in and see what happens.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Dave, I wasn't comparing a ship to a movie theatre. It wasn't an analogy. I'm talking about rules, laws and policies. Not all rules have basis in whether or not you're doing something destructive to anyone.

When you get your cruise ticket there is a contract included (this contact is available for viewing prior to booking). By accepting and paying for your ticket, you are agreeing to that cruiseline's policies. No one is forcing you to agree, you have a choice. By accepting the ticket, you accept the policies and agree to adhere to them.

They are simply rules. Some choose to ignore them, some don't. But if most people chose to ignore rules, there might be a lot of people driving along the breakdown lane during traffic. They might say, "hey, I'm not hurting anyone".

If we are left to decide for ourselves whether a law should be upheld based on whether we personally feel it has "good basis", then chaos will ensue.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it!

[superstein61]

Ahem...
A ship's cabin is not like a movie theatre, it's like a hotel. As long as I'm not doing something distructive, or dangerous to myself or another person it's none of thier business what I do in my room or what is in my suitcase.

p.s. I haven't brought alcohol onboard, but I see nothing wrong with ignoring rules which have no good basis other than picking your pocket.


APPLAUSE FOR THE WISE DAVE !!!!

[superstein61]

Because I just need to say I agree with Dave. And I don't understand why Superstein responded to Dave (negatively again; big surprise) when Dave clearly said he was going to "ignore" Superstein

You must be referring to little dave - not BigDave - as I agree 100% with BigDave. Why did I respond to little dave - because he posted another negative, judgemental, sanctimonious argument directed to me. I certainly have the right to respond and debunk his myths and illogical analogies.

Oh - and isn't it interesting that you only view the responses of those you disagree with on this issue as "negatie" - but find those responses from whom you agree to be lighthearted and funny.

Puhleeeeeze. spare me

[HeatherInFlorida]

You must be referring to little dave - not BigDave - as I agree 100% with BigDave. Why did I respond to little dave - because he posted another negative, judgemental, sanctimonious argument directed to me. I certainly have the right to respond and debunk his myths and illogical analogies.

Oh - and isn't it interesting that you only view the responses of those you disagree with on this issue as "negatie" - but find those responses from whom you agree to be lighthearted and funny.

Puhleeeeeze. spare me
Okay, Superstein, you're spared. Actually, you're wrong. I rarely agree with RevNeal. I just did this time. And I often agree with you, just not this time. For some reason this subject got you riled up. I don't know why. And it's not that I disagree with you; it was just a mood I had felt you set yesterday.

If I was wrong and you weren't 100% negative yesterday, than I'm honestly sorry. But it is the way I read it and a lot of others saw it, too. The issue was a hot one for you and the funny thing is that over 15 years sober, it's really not an issue for me. But policies are. And that's what I was debating.

Let's not fight, okay?;)

[superstein61]

Okay, Superstein, you're spared. Actually, you're wrong. I rarely agree with RevNeal. I just did this time. And I often agree with you, just not this time. For some reason this subject got you riled up. I don't know why. And it's not that I disagree with you; it was just a mood I had felt you set yesterday.

If I was wrong and you weren't 100% negative yesterday, than I'm honestly sorry. But it is the way I read it and a lot of others saw it, too. The issue was a hot one for you and the funny thing is that over 15 years sober, it's really not an issue for me. But policies are. And that's what I was debating.

Let's not fight, okay?;)

Heather - fair enough. I tried very hard to keep this debate civil. Early on, I ignored and laughed at names like "riff-raff" that a few folks used to describe someone bringing on their own beverage.

But when someone starts saying we are lushes, belong in AA meetings (ie friends of BillW) or insinuate we are thiefs (an incorrect assertion) among other things, I am not going to take that without a response. So I may have aggressively replied to some of these folks - but certainly not without provocation. In any case, while I have no regrets in what I said to those I directed it to (they deserved it all and more), if someone on the sidelines like yourself was offended, I apologize for upsetting you

[HeatherInFlorida]

You see, Superstein, now I see you in a totally different light! You seem like a nice person. And maybe you were just riled up from some things that were said. But that's the problem with these boards sometimes because you can't always read between the lines. So I'm glad we've straightened this out.

Allow me to say, though, that there's nothing wrong with AA or Friends of Bill W. As one who way overdrank and had to stop or ruin my life, I wholeheartedly support these groups. Though you never would have guessed back then that I was a "lush", I was. A typical woman alcoholic who hides it beautifully. That may be why I liked those drinks in my cabin:p .

Still, when these remarks are made I don't take it personally because I licked that and was surprised to find out I could still go on a cruise and have the time of my life. Just breathing the air around me makes me high.

Happy Cruising ... with or without the demon rum!!!:D

[joeinwpb]

:) It's not often when a thread comes up wherein I don't even have a clue, as to who is more right, or more wrong than the other. Seems like there's a whole bunch of people I like, going every which way.

I'm getting convinced there is no right, or wrong here. Just an honest difference of interpretation, based on two different views points.
:)

If any of you good people are on one of my cruises. I extend a standing offer for a libation in my stateroom.

PS: There will be no discussion about how that bottle came to be in my room.

[superstein61]

You see, Superstein, now I see you in a totally different light! You seem like a nice person. And maybe you were just riled up from some things that were said. But that's the problem with these boards sometimes because you can't always read between the lines. So I'm glad we've straightened this out.

Allow me to say, though, that there's nothing wrong with AA or Friends of Bill W. As one who way overdrank and had to stop or ruin my life, I wholeheartedly support these groups. Though you never would have guessed back then that I was a "lush", I was. A typical woman alcoholic who hides it beautifully. That may be why I liked those drinks in my cabin:p .

Still, when these remarks are made I don't take it personally because I licked that and was surprised to find out I could still go on a cruise and have the time of my life. Just breathing the air around me makes me high.

Happy Cruising ... with or without the demon rum!!!:D

Heather - thanks. QUite frankly I am a very nice person and you would love to meet me on a cruise. I am a fun loving guy who doesn't worry about many things. I will not get bent out of shape over what another person wears on caa cruise or what they do. Its their vacation to - they paid for it - let them enjoy it - as long as they don't infringe on others enjoyment. I will admit I have strong opinions and will argue my point vehemently, but I sincerely try not to take personal shots at anyone - until they cast the first stone. When I feel someone has gone too far and affronted me, then I will respond.

And yes - I am sure AA does tremendous work - but for another poster, who knows nothing about me or others who carry on a bottle of rum and a six pack or two of Mountain Dew and insinuate we are Alcoholics is wrong. I think we can debate things without reverting to these type of names.

just on two threads - one debating formal dress, and one debating booze - I believe I have been called riff-raff, lush, alchoholic, low class and several others that I have forgotten now - all because some folks didn't agree with my stance on formal wear (I do not like it) and bringing your own beverage on board I favor it).

The world would be a whole lot better place if people didn't judge others like this

[superstein61]

:) It's not often when a thread comes up wherein I don't even have a clue, as to who is more right, or more wrong than the other. Seems like there's a whole bunch of people I like, going every which way.

I'm getting convinced there is no right, or wrong here. Just an honest difference of interpretation, based on two different views points.
:)

If any of you good people are on one of my cruises. I extend a standing offer for a libation in my stateroom.

PS: There will be no discussion about how that bottle came to be in my room.

Joe - you are right. I do not get upset over someone who doesn't bring their own beverage on board - if they want to buy drinks from HAl, more power to them. So why do so many get upset at others who do the opposite?

I would enjoy cruising with you - hell, I wwould even bring by blender to your cabin to help you with mixing those libations :)

[stillfrantic]

I feel a big, giant group hug coming on. Ain't it wonderful?;)

[RevNeal]

If any of you good people are on one of my cruises. I extend a standing offer for a libation in my stateroom.

Thank you! Both my mother and I would enjoy that. :)

[superstein61]

I feel a big, giant group hug coming on. Ain't it wonderful?;)

:) :) :)

[joeinwpb]

Joe - you are right. I do not get upset over someone who doesn't bring their own beverage on board - if they want to buy drinks from HAl, more power to them. So why do so many get upset at others who do the opposite?

I would enjoy cruising with you - hell, I wwould even bring by blender to your cabin to help you with mixing those libations :)

It's a plan then. If you do bring a blender. I'll grab a couple of bananas from some source on the ship. That's not an easy feat on a HAL ship. All I could find were sliced up bananas, except for one that I was able to procure from a kind buddy's fruit dish in his suite. All we ever got in class "B" were a couple of unripe apples.

This has been a good thread. I met several new friends. And enjoyed seeing some of my friends from the previous threads join in.

[HeatherInFlorida]

It's a plan then. If you do bring a blender. I'll grab a couple of bananas from some source on the ship.
Psssssst..............how about if I smuggle a couple of bananas in my luggage? Then I'll come sniff* whatever libation you folks are blending up and we're good to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

Only problem with the entire plan is we're all on different ships;)

*(for those of you who missed my other posts, I consumed my limit of alcohol at an early age. Hence, I sniff it instead and get my kicks that way:o

[ryansmemom]

:) It's not often when a thread comes up wherein I don't even have a clue, as to who is more right, or more wrong than the other. Seems like there's a whole bunch of people I like, going every which way.

I'm getting convinced there is no right, or wrong here. Just an honest difference of interpretation, based on two different views points.
:)

If any of you good people are on one of my cruises. I extend a standing offer for a libation in my stateroom.

PS: There will be no discussion about how that bottle came to be in my room.


Actually, there are very few things in this life that are truly Right and Wrong. If we could just understand and accept that then we would all get along and accept each other for the good people we really are.

That my friends is the point I have been trying to make all along. However, being the shrink that I am, I was hoping someone would figure it out because I don't want to be the know-it-all, shrink.

So let's stop arguing and putting each other down. The group hug sounds great. I'll buy the drinks for those who are interested.

And.....

Do not flame the shrink. Do not turn on the shrink. She really meant well. She really is a nice person.

Linda

[RevNeal]

Do not flame the shrink. Do not turn on the shrink. She really meant well. She really is a nice person.

And she also has the ******. :D

[Sailure]

just on two threads - one debating formal dress, and one debating booze - I believe I have been called riff-raff, lush, alchoholic, low class and several others that I have forgotten now - all because some folks didn't agree with my stance on formal wear (I do not like it) and bringing your own beverage on board I favor it).>>>Superstein

WOW, you refuse to dress according to HAL's requirements for formal night, you don't want to abide by HAL's rules with reference to bringing on your own booze....
You're just a regular rebel, aren't you???:D
(now don't get your knickers in a knot, I'm just kidding you)

[RevNeal]

now don't get your knickers in a knot, I'm just kidding you

Ut OH! :eek:
You just accused superstein61 of wearing knickers!!!!!!!!!! :eek:
Heaven HELP you!
;)

[Roadguy]

Joe,
To answer the original questions:
No , I DO NOT smuggle liquor in to a niteclub, BUT if I were in there for aweek or ten days I might reconsider.
I don't see how bringin liquor onboard is somehow cheatin HAL out of money.

Please explain this to Me:
If instead of a bottle of Jack or a jar of shine, I bring a case of Boones Farm or Thunderbird, that makes Me more acceptable and proper?
It's bad enough that I have to bring a Mason jar onboard so I have a glass big enough for a decent drink.
AND, WHY are my" Sunday Go To Meetin" clothes NOT good enough for "Formal" nites?

[Sailure]

Ut OH! :eek:
You just accused superstein61 of wearing knickers!!!!!!!!!! :eek:
Heaven HELP you!
;)
I'm in for it now!:eek:

[iluvcruzin]

And she also has the ******. :D
I belive Linda said she was a license phsycologist - not a MD.. Big difference. One involves the medical board, the other major in phsychology and counciling in college. Here in Ohio you must be a MD to admin. medication.

I'm not flaming you Linda.. Although I do find it strange you seem to have some insecurities in this area always asking people not to do so. Also it's "thanks for reading" as no one here listens unless they have some sort of transcription software.

[Sailure]

Maureen, psychologists with post-doctoral training in psychopharmacology in New Mexico and Louisiana can prescribe meds to patients and psychologists in Florida are hoping to be able to next year.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Maureen, psychologists with post-doctoral training in psychopharmacology in New Mexico and Louisiana can prescribe meds to patients and psychologists in Florida are hoping to be able to next year.That's interesting, but I believe Linda practices in Pennsylvania.

[sail7seas]

Her profile states Pennsylvania.

[RevNeal]

AND, WHY are my" Sunday Go To Meetin" clothes NOT good enough for "Formal" nites?

I sometimes wear my "Sunday Go To Meetin" clothes on formal night. But I have church members who "Go To Meetin" in T-shirts and jeans (particularly in the summer). So ... what are your "Sunday Go To Meetin" clothes? If you're a man and your "Sunday Go To Meetin" clothes are a suit and tie or a pair of slacks, jacket and tie ... you'll be perfectly within the HAL dress code for formal night.

[RevNeal]

I belive Linda said she was a license phsycologist - not a MD.

Linda referenced herself as a shrink, and I normally think of a shrink as being a clinical psychiatrist ... i.e., an MD who is specialized into Psychiatry. If she's a clinical psychologist then she still qualifies as a shrink, but in some states she won't be able to prescribe. I've worked with a lot of clinical psychologists ... both in referring people for counseling purposes and in direct professional connections (I'm certified in Clinical Pastoral Care and, in the past, I have served on the chaplain staff of a hospital).

[Sailure]

That's interesting, but I believe Linda practices in Pennsylvania.
I think it's a moot point anyway unless I missed the post where Linda said she prescribes meds to anyone.

[RevNeal]

I think it's a moot point anyway unless I missed the post where Linda said she prescribes meds to anyone.

She didn't ... I was JOKING!
Please ... folk ... lighten up!
I was kidding around.

This has been a good example of thread drift! :)

[Sailure]

She didn't ... I was JOKING!
Please ... folk ... lighten up!
I was kidding around.

This has been a good example of thread drift! :)
See how you start things?:D

[ryansmemom]

Hi guys,

Thanks so much for caring. I really mean it. I'm so happy to be noticed. Yes, I am a licensed psychologist practicing in Pennsylvania. I do not, may not, prescribe medication. I will say I have no interest in dong so, I will leave that aggravation to my psychiatric friends. It can be a nightmare and they are welcome to it. I prefer talking to people getting to know them, and helping them grow in the direction of their choice (most of the time, it has to be legal and not hurt anyone else. I know how some of you think)

Yes, I am sensitive to being flamed. I have to tell you, I don't have that TV shrink clinical detachment, especially in my personal life. But seriously, I don't think anyone who is "detached" can help someone with their feelings. We shrinks are human beings. Recently, I have felt flamed and gotten my feelings hurt so I've been a bit gun shy. Instead of pulling back and saying so long CC I decided to take a bit of my own medicine (non-pharmacological) and do something about it. And so I have been encouraging others to stop flaming, open up and talk, and be positive.

As far as my signature "Thanks for listening." I didn't mean listening in the literal sense. I know we can't hear each other. I meant listening in the sense of going beyond the sensory experience of reading or hearing. Listening involves understanding. It's what we do when we stop and think about what a person actually says or writes or does. It's what good shrinks do.

And you know something else? Tonight, I really feel welcome here. Thanks!



Linda ;) ;) :) :)

[joeinwpb]

How many threads have you all seen that were like this one? My faith in HAL cruisers has been re-affirmed. The whole trick was to create respect for one another. Once that occurs everything falls right into place. This is an exceptional group.

I'll except a drink from Linda anytime. BUT! She must promise not to "shrink" it however. :D
PS: You are on my "Do NOT Flame" list promise.:)

Happy to see my good friend Roadguy join us. Gosh! I didn't know he drank.:D

Heather: Wonderful meeting someone else from WPB. Sometime we'll [my wife included of course] have a coffee.:)

[superstein61]

It's a plan then. If you do bring a blender. I'll grab a couple of bananas from some source on the ship. That's not an easy feat on a HAL ship. All I could find were sliced up bananas, except for one that I was able to procure from a kind buddy's fruit dish in his suite. All we ever got in class "B" were a couple of unripe apples.

This has been a good thread. I met several new friends. And enjoyed seeing some of my friends from the previous threads join in.

I know Joe - those Banana's are tough to find. Last time around, I had to pretty much stick with strawberries from the breakfast buffet. After a while, a nice blended libation with a banana, some rum, etc would have made for a nice change of pace :)

[superstein61]

just on two threads - one debating formal dress, and one debating booze - I believe I have been called riff-raff, lush, alchoholic, low class and several others that I have forgotten now - all because some folks didn't agree with my stance on formal wear (I do not like it) and bringing your own beverage on board I favor it).>>>Superstein

WOW, you refuse to dress according to HAL's requirements for formal night, you don't want to abide by HAL's rules with reference to bringing on your own booze....
You're just a regular rebel, aren't you???:D
(now don't get your knickers in a knot, I'm just kidding you)

Actually I have conformed to the formal dress in the past - but no longer will. Its a silly little money making scheme from the cruise line - and why should I be uncomfortable - especially on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of summer? Now I am not going to show up in shorts and a tank top either - I will dress nicely - but no coat and tie for me. If that makes me a rebel - well, so be it :)

[vjb223]

I agree with you, some people have to wear suits for work and when on vacation..that's what it is a vacation. On formal nite's the Lido sounds good to me. We never wear shorts to dinner well maybe at home.For the people who enjoy dressing to the 9's that's great you look nice and that makes the evening even more special. Everyone has a choice and should not be judged by their choices. We do carry a bottle for cabin consumption only, not pool or dining room just for our private use on the balcony in the evening. Know I will probably get what you called slammed for this but, nobody's perfect.

[vjb223]

Let me know what cruise you are going on and we can meet and have a toast in our casual wear of course. Ha Ha

[superstein61]

I agree with you, some people have to wear suits for work and when on vacation..that's what it is a vacation. On formal nite's the Lido sounds good to me. We never wear shorts to dinner well maybe at home.For the people who enjoy dressing to the 9's that's great you look nice and that makes the evening even more special. Everyone has a choice and should not be judged by their choices. We do carry a bottle for cabin consumption only, not pool or dining room just for our private use on the balcony in the evening. Know I will probably get what you called slammed for this but, nobody's perfect.

Yep VJB - No one is perfect and everyone has the freedom to do as they choose. Which is why I find it sad that some folks here have to judge others.

I would love to have that drink with you - while we relax in our casual clothes :)

[HeatherInFlorida]

You have to love this thread! And it does remind me of an old game called "Telephone" where someone whispered to someone and it goes 'round the room and by the time it gets back to the original person it's completely different? I'm dating myself, but this thread really reminds me of that.

Linda, I think everyone was just having fun with the whole "shrink" thing. You have my respect because I've noticed you take enormous care and time with your observations.

Joe, absolutely coffee with your wife/my husband. But even better if it's on a big boat!!!:D

Does anyone know why the thread "Stoned" got locked up by Doug? I can't figure that out.

Back on Topic, it looks like smuggling bananas onboard makes more sense than booze because at least you can get booze on board!!!

[iluvcruzin]

Does anyone know why the thread "Stoned" got locked up by Doug? I can't figure that out.
If I had to take a wild guess.. It's possible someone reported the thread. Sometimes it takes a day or so for it to disappear. I could be wrong, but I'm thinking that thread included personal attacks at someone. It's a shame the thread had to be removed as there were some funny posts there - but sometimes that needs to happen if such activites as mentioned occur.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Mmmm....that could be it, Maureen. It did get a little tough but I thought we all made up and had a group hug!:D Oh well.

[ryansmemom]

[QUOTE=joeinwpb]How many threads have you all seen that were like this one? My faith in HAL cruisers has been re-affirmed. The whole trick was to create respect for one another. Once that occurs everything falls right into place. This is an exceptional group.

I'll except a drink from Linda anytime. BUT! She must promise not to "shrink" it however. :D
PS: You are on my "Do NOT Flame" list promise.:)

Thank you Joe, and I'm going to hold you to that promise. And, Joe and everyone else, I don't shrink anything or anyone I'm not paid to shrink.
;)

Linda

[stillfrantic]

Linda, if you decide to shrink people for pay, I'd like my thighs shrunk please!

[ryansmemom]

Linda, I think everyone was just having fun with the whole "shrink" thing. You have my respect because I've noticed you take enormous care and time with your observations.


Thank you so much Heather. I enjoy your posts as well. you have lot's of good ideas to share and you speak from your heart as well as from your mind. I don't mind being called a shrink one bit. I think it's fun. Although I like to think I help expand people's minds not shrink them!
;) :D

Linda

[ryansmemom]

Linda, if you decide to shrink people for pay, I'd like my thighs shrunk please!

If I could do that I'd be a billionaire! But thnks for the idea!!

Linda

[Seadoc]

Wow! What a trivial and meaningless topic! What pithy positions! It's reminiscent of earlier volumes of the GAGT in which we saw the lemmings line up in nice straight rows and march in lockstep to the edge of the cliff...perhaps it was Medicare, or "chads", or Iraq, or the drivel of domestic politics or "choice"...that Americans are awash in guilt (and anger) is obvious...that it has absolutely nothing to do with taking booze aboard a cruise ship is equally obvious.
A few points to ponder:
1. Any cruiseline's "policy" regarding their customers taking booze aboard is neither LAW nor SMUGGLING. It is simply a policy.
2. What quietly and legally resides in my luggage is abosultely, positively and forever NO ONE else's biz (not the cruise line's and certainly not PC posters here).
3. If the cruiseline - in it's diligent attempt to maximize onboard revenue (consistent, natch, with their ever-changing booze "policy") - wishes to inspect ALL luggage, that's their prerogative. If they do so because guilt-laden but oh so enlightened posters here have alerted them to the economic reality that a $7.95 "drink of the day" (plus 15% "service charge yet!!) is more expensive than my pouring from what's legally residing in my suitcase, so much the better. If their application of their policy creates additional "wait time" for some of you, print (no script allowed!) your reaction on the handy dandy comment card in your stateroom- because as you all know from experience, your comments are immediately implemented in the cruiseline's new and improved "policies"......................
4. None of this thread is about "beverages"..... it's all about "booze". When we straighten out our technologic terminology, perhaps we'll experience a touch of progress. Thanks for your ears.

[vjb223]

sorry we missed you on the Dec. So. America and the Canada May cruise, going to Eastern Carib. in Oct. you are always welcomed to join us.

[vjb223]

agree

[Orcrone]

For the most part I've avoided this thread. For the heck of it I decided to look at the last page this morning, without looking at the previous umpteen posts. The title is "beating the bar tab", but there is very little on this page about that. It's transformed into dress code (now there's a surprise) and something having to do with psychiatric help and who can prescribe medication.:eek:

[joeinwpb]

Seadoc: :)
You bring up a couple points, previously unmentioned.

Stillfrantic: :eek:
Do not to get the thighs shrunk.
Amo un buen muslo.
Rough translation = That would be the wrong thing to do. :D

[HeatherInFlorida]

:) There is a thread out there today. Someone is asking for tips on ways to smuggle a thermos to the pool to save on his bar tab. Couldn't help making a reply to it. Here it is:

" Bringing in liquor to have an occasional drink in your stateroom is something I can understand. Cheating on your bar tab aboard ship is less than exemplary.

Do you also smuggle in your booze when you go to a nightclub, or restaurant? It's the same thing

Sounds like a maneuver that others pay for.

Cheap "
The above was the original post. I don't think we got so far off topic really.

Orcrone, you can't just read the last page:) ! If you read a bit more, you'd see the evolution. Some of it is a bit off topic, but we always got back to it.

Seadoc, I have to say I respect your views and your right to express them. But I have to disagree with you. I think the cruiselines have every right to make policy on what you can and cannot bring onboard their ships. We rent a small space for a brief moment in time and think we own it; we do not. If people want to go against policy, it doesn't bother me personally but I do think they should recognize that in our society we presumably follow the rules.

That's just my opinion:o .

[Roadguy]

That whole discussion about shrinkage made Me feel a bit uncomfortable.
I certainly wouldn't want to have to worry about that while on vacation!!!!!!.......

[superstein61]

Superstein61 sorry we missed you on the Dec. So. America and the Canada May cruise, going to Eastern Carib. in Oct. you are always welcomed to join us.

Thanks vjb223 !!!! Alas I will be in the Eastern Caribbean in about a month - so we will miss each other. But hopefully our paths will cross somewhere down the road. Enjoy your Oct cruise (and whatever libation you may carry on board :) )

[superstein61]

Nicely said Seadoc !!!

[Vicar]

On the next Jerry Springer Show ......


Shrinks who get stoned and don't adhere to the dress code ......

[ianturner]

Does any one know if a person may buy liquer at the ships store And take it back to your room ?
On other lines this can be done for an extra fee.

[RevNeal]

Does any one know if a person may buy liquer at the ships store And take it back to your room ?
On other lines this can be done for an extra fee.

It used to be allowed. On the Statendam in 2002 I bought a bottle of gin in order to fix drinks for friends and myself in my cabin one formal night.

Sadly, they no longer allow us to purchase from the duty free shops onboard for consumption onboard. You CAN purchase through ship's services for a higher price. Frankly, I think it's a silly rule; if they were not making enough from the sale of booze in the duty free shops for onboard consumption, then just up that price and allow us to buy it there. Other purchases -- booze for taking home -- they can charge us less and let us pick it up on the last night of the cruise.

[wcolucci]

should it be any different??

[wcolucci]

ooops. relplied to a two day old post on page 8 of this looooooooooooong thread...

sorry

[alsas]

My reasoning is that in places such as Cozumel, I would not eat or drink a thing. I would not touch a glass there (washed in local water); would not touch an ice cube....would not risk needlessly becoming ill and ruining our vacation. (I know, I know...there are a whole string of folks who are all prepared to tell me how safe it is to eat the food, drink the drinks.....:) It's our preference to eat on the ship when we are in Mexico.)

So, in Cozumel, I bring a bottle of water ashore with us.

In other ports, if we want a drink, we stop at a local establishment, order what we want and pay the bill when we are ready to leave.
you are so well traveled and i am in shock that you feel so gaurded in mexico when we were in india i felt that it was not possible to take the risk other than in the large hotels but mexico? could you explain further as i respect your opinion. thanks fellow traveler

[sail7seas]

As you say, we have done a great deal of travel and we have determined through at least ten visits to Cozumel that we do not care to eat and drink there. It is only our personal choice.

As I wrote, I know there are many who will say Pooh...it is perfectly safe to eat and drink in Mexico. I do not doubt they have had only good experiences.

Perhaps we are more inclined to forego eating/drinking there as we are not huge fans of Mexican style dishes. Now if it were a cuisine we are more fond of, it might be harder to resist. :)

[Krazy Kruizers]

:)

We also do not eat or drink in any port in Mexico unless it is a drink without ice - ABSOLUTLY. And in Mexico we have it without ROCKS.

Wife had a bad experience quite a number of years ago in Istanbul. We were told that the Four Seasons Hotel was alright to drink. We both drank it for several days without any problems. On the last night before our cruise I had Raki and she B&B. Guess who was sick in the middle of the night?

I told her she should have had the Raki!

You won't get us to drink water or have iced drinks in Mexico!

:D :D

[superstein61]

We have NEVER had a problem with anything we ate or drank in Cozumel.

I love mexican cuisine - and you would be doing yourself a disfavor not sampling some authentic cuisine on Cozumel. Not to mention the Margarita's !!!!!

If you do some real research, you will find that drinking and eating in Cozumel is extremely safe. That may not hold true all over Mexico - but it certainly does in Cozumel !!!

Don't let some overly cautious folks scare you off from sampling the local fare.

[randolph]

Sails7seas,
Everyone knows you hate B2B's, the Zuiderdam, the Maasdam, and absolutely
hate the gooie ribs on the private island. You even privately hate the Boston
Red Sox and the "S" suites mid deck so close to that special suite room just down the hall. All of us know it's the Boston elites who smuggle the booze on board and pin the blame on the rest of us. Smaller deeds have been the
cause dumping tea in our histories past. Now what do you have to say for yourself?

[sail7seas]

:D Hardly, Randolph, ;) but 'howdy'!!!


How 'ya doin? You've been absent for some time. Hope all is well. :)

[imsulin]

Just gotta say....I was raised on the best Mexican food (I'm from Colorado, not Latino...just an older, mature WASPy lady - get the picture?) and have been to Cozumel/Cancun/Manzanillo/Mazatlan/Puerto Vallarta/Playa del Carmen/Puerto Aventura/Akumal/Mexico City ad infinitum, and am proud to say that some of the very best - and genuine - "Mexican" food I've ever had was in the local "dives" in these places....not to mention the great, freshly prepared burritos (all kinds) straight out of the local vendor/coolers outside of Mile High Stadium (proud owner of Bronco season tickets since 1973). Chorizo....love it!!! When I travel - which I do frequently - I always ask the "locals" where the best place to eat is, and these - ahem - "locals" have never failed me. What really bugs me is the out-dated and over-emphasized misconception of the "Montezuma's Revenge" theory that you can't drink the water in Mexico. Oh, please! The tourist areas in Mexico cleaned up their water years ago! Won't drink if there's ice in the drink? Well, if you won't drink it, I will! Never had a problem with "Mexican" water or ice in 20 years. If you THINK you'll get sick from drinking "Mexican" water or ice, you absolutely will! Just save those drinks for me!
Going on the Zuiderdam Eastern on April 9 (had a GREAT time on my first time on this ship). Hasta la bye bye from the WASP, and just send any chile rellenos my way!

[michmike]

goodness.. 200 plus posts on this topic?? certainly lends credence to the old line about opinions being like backsides.. everyone has one.. as for me?? if anyone asks... that bottle of tanqueray in my suitcase is juniper wine..

[WISCruiser]

Ahh, the "olde" bringing booze onboard bhru-hah-hah! Yes, I was furious the first time HAL "confiscated" my beloved KALIK Beer from the Bahamas (can't get it here, up-north), but I figured, oh-well, if thats what it has to be; then so be it. As I could enjoy it more at home, all the same. Just like I would'nt bring down my Fav local brew (Miller Lite) to drag on the plane and then to the pier and then on the ship (Arg!, enough allready). Like everyone said previously, your "on vacation", go with the flow. Thanks for making my "1st" post, truly memorable. :D

[heyabbott]

Don't they have room service and mini-bars in the room?


You're paying 4-5 grand, minimum, for a decent vacation, spend the extra couple of bucks and drink what they have to offer. Otherwise, rent a villa for the week and drink duty free Dom all day.
It's not like you smuggling some good pot on board and looking for a place to get high, understandable on a sea cruise. Marijuanna prevents motion sickness, increases the appetite and allows one to lie by the pool, uninterupted, for longer periods of time. Also longer, slower, less inhibited sex, always a plus in a room dominated by a bed.

Call room service, have them bring up a bottle of tequila, a few limes, a shaker of salt and a six of Red Stripe or Heinies, then call me.

[ewddy]

I just called HAL to clarify their policy. They will sell bottles in their duty free store, but they will take them only to return them to you on the last day. They do not have a service charge that you can pay to allow you to drink the bottles in your cabin. At all of the bars on ship, they will sell you bottles of whatever alcohol that you want. She gave me a price example on vodka: least expensive around 29 up to Belevedere at 76/liter. They only sell liters. They said that you can bring wine and champagne on board for in cabin consumption. Bringing it to dinner will require a corkage fee. Hope this helps. I just got this info today.:)

[sail7seas]

I just called HAL to clarify their policy. They will sell bottles in their duty free store, but they will take them only to return them to you on the last day. They do not have a service charge that you can pay to allow you to drink the bottles in your cabin. At all of the bars on ship, they will sell you bottles of whatever alcohol that you want. She gave me a price example on vodka: least expensive around 29 up to Belevedere at 76/liter. They only sell liters. They said that you can bring wine and champagne on board for in cabin consumption. Bringing it to dinner will require a corkage fee. Hope this helps. I just got this info today.:)


That has been HAL's policy on liquor for at least six months...... probably more than that by now. You can pre-order bottles of liquor to be delivered to your cabin and it will be there when you board. Call Ship's Services if you wish to order before you board.

[cru1s1ng]

After reading the entire post - all I can say is WOW