bypassing Mexico..but to where?

[anniecat]

I notice on Hal's website they are bypassing Mexico. My SIL is on the april 18 Ft Laurderdale to Vancouver (Zuiderdam)...what alternate ports will they use. Just can't imagine where they might go. Maybe just around in circles slowly.
any news out there?

[DAllenTCY]

Catalina has been mentioned as a possible substitute for Ensenada, Mexico.
David

[RedmondCruiser]

We should get someone on with the Zuiderdam or the Westerdam to chime in here. Both ships have diverted from Mexico. It would be interesting to find out what alternatives have been brought up.

[swedish weave]

We should get someone on with the Zuiderdam or the Westerdam to chime in here. Both ships have diverted from Mexico. It would be interesting to find out what alternatives have been brought up.


How about the Ryndam -- A ten day trip to the Sea of Cortez, and they made Puerto Vallarta but the other five ports are cancelled and they don't have any other ports within hundreds of miles.

[pipedreams62]

It's just cruising on the open sea,or risk getting the swine flu. I don't think there are any islands or new countries under construction right now.

There's a building freeze.

[swedish weave]

It's just cruising on the open sea,or risk getting the swine flu. I don't think there are any islands or new countries under construction right now.

There's a building freeze.

Maybe the genie in the bottle can help them ??? Or maybe just a bottle or two would also help !!!!!

[amtk98]

Catalina has been mentioned as a possible substitute for Ensenada, Mexico.
David

I'd take Catalina over Ensenada ANY DAY.

[pipedreams62]

Maybe the genie in the bottle can help them ??? Or maybe just a bottle or two would also help !!!!!



http://abinitioadinfinitum.files.wordpress.com/2007/08/jeannie.jpg

[Himself]

On several cruises I have bypassed Half-Moon Cay because of weather. We just enjoyed the amenities of the Sea. The same thing could be done here. Ensenada is a stop that the Hawaiian Ship stops at. The Zaandam would have to find another foreign port to stop at but that should not be too hard. Stop at A Pacific Island before heading back.

[Jemima]

No, the Hawaiian cruises could still use Ensenada as a port, just not let anyone off the ship there. That happened on our February cruise and has happened on some others. On ours it was because weather conditions had slowed the Zaandam a bit and we arrived late in Ensenada.

[Creeks]

How about the Ryndam -- A ten day trip to the Sea of Cortez, and they made Puerto Vallarta but the other five ports are cancelled and they don't have any other ports within hundreds of miles.


My DH would have loved it! That was why he so enjoyed the TA cruises,
days and days of nothing but sea..............:)

[LJ1045]

HAL cancelled all four ports of call to Mexico. Turned back south and right now we're in Guatemala :(.....We're going to stay south and go to Nicaragua tomorrow. Two TERRIBLE ports.

Then we're off for another four days at sea to go to San Diego. Most people I've talked to are incredibly upset. HAL "chose" out of an "abundance of caution" to skip Mexico.

As of right now there's more confirmed cases in the USA than Mexico. It's a worldwide "imminent pandemic." If it was such a concern, HAl wouldn't return to San Diego, but we all know that won't happen.

Cabo, Aculpulco will be sorely missed.

Add to the fact of terrible TV channels to try and kill some time (one can only drink/gamble/soak up sun so much of a day) and you've got some upset, stir crazy folks....

I've had my morning breakfast that we ordered the night before NOT show up TWICE. Rude officers don't help either....

Never again.

Poor decision HAL.

[debshomespun]

HAL cancelled all four ports of call to Mexico. Turned back south and right now we're in Guatemala :(.....We're going to stay south and go to Nicaragua tomorrow. Two TERRIBLE ports.

Then we're off for another four days at sea to go to San Diego. Most people I've talked to are incredibly upset. HAL "chose" out of an "abundance of caution" to skip Mexico.

As of right now there's more confirmed cases in the USA than Mexico. It's a worldwide "imminent pandemic." If it was such a concern, HAl wouldn't return to San Diego, but we all know that won't happen.

Cabo, Aculpulco will be sorely missed.

Add to the fact of terrible TV channels to try and kill some time (one can only drink/gamble/soak up sun so much of a day) and you've got some upset, stir crazy folks....

I've had my morning breakfast that we ordered the night before NOT show up TWICE. Rude officers don't help either....

Never again.

Poor decision HAL.

WOW! What a bad attitude. I would rather be safe than sorry!

What I wouldn't give to be on a ship at sea now and relaxing in the sun all day long! Have my meals all cooked, my cabin cleaned twice a day, drinks from the bar, entertainment at night. Sheesh, what a life.

Things happen in life, and the cruiseline is trying to keep everyone as safe as possible.

[Chelly]

Ditto. Attitude can make or break a vacation AND, knowing the meaning of the word "acceptance" is a valuable asset.

[Robin7]

I've been following the "Live from the Splendor" thread as we're supposed to do the Mexican Riviera in September. What I can't get over is how many people are mad at CARNIVAL. (And this person over here is mad at HAL.) What choice do the powers-that-be have when the CDC has said:

At this time, CDC recommends that U.S. travelers avoid all nonessential travel to Mexico.

What part of 'nonessential' do these cruisers not understand???? And I bet if Carnival and HAL DID stop in Mexico, there would be myriad lawsuits by people who considered the stop 'nonessential'. I feel sorry for the crew and officers on the ships having to deal with unhappy people no matter what they do.

Read your cruise contracts, people! I've been on three cruises now (out of ten) that have had itinerary changes. It happens.

Robin

[kjw869]

HAL cancelled all four ports of call to Mexico. Turned back south and right now we're in Guatemala :(.....We're going to stay south and go to Nicaragua tomorrow. Two TERRIBLE ports.

Then we're off for another four days at sea to go to San Diego. Most people I've talked to are incredibly upset. HAL "chose" out of an "abundance of caution" to skip Mexico.

As of right now there's more confirmed cases in the USA than Mexico. It's a worldwide "imminent pandemic." If it was such a concern, HAl wouldn't return to San Diego, but we all know that won't happen.

Cabo, Aculpulco will be sorely missed.

Add to the fact of terrible TV channels to try and kill some time (one can only drink/gamble/soak up sun so much of a day) and you've got some upset, stir crazy folks....

I've had my morning breakfast that we ordered the night before NOT show up TWICE. Rude officers don't help either....

Never again.

Poor decision HAL.






What? Poor decision? This is the "decision" that Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess, Celebrity, Disney and other cruise lines have wisely made, some today. That sounds terrible--gambling, sun, entertainment, all meals cooked while on your honeymoon (?).

We can be thankful you are not in charge of a cruiseship line. I'll be boarding the Westerdam in May and I'm thankful that HAL has decided to not put the passenges and crew at risk!

[wander]

In cases like the swine flu situation, it is frequently NOT the cruise line that makes the actual decision to change itineraries - but their INSURANCE COMPANIES/ORGANIZATIONS. As a Captain told us after a significant itinerary change a month after 9/11, No one would insure the ship/cruise and the cruise line could not afford to self-insure if anything were to happen on the original itinerary. (Suez canal and areas of the middle east.)

[mamaofami]

It's hard to believe people are angry about the changes to insure their safety. Life happens.

[Copper10-8]

HAL cancelled all four ports of call to Mexico. Turned back south and right now we're in Guatemala :(.....We're going to stay south and go to Nicaragua tomorrow. Two TERRIBLE ports.

Then we're off for another four days at sea to go to San Diego. Most people I've talked to are incredibly upset. HAL "chose" out of an "abundance of caution" to skip Mexico.

As of right now there's more confirmed cases in the USA than Mexico. It's a worldwide "imminent pandemic." If it was such a concern, HAl wouldn't return to San Diego, but we all know that won't happen.

Cabo, Aculpulco will be sorely missed.

Add to the fact of terrible TV channels to try and kill some time (one can only drink/gamble/soak up sun so much of a day) and you've got some upset, stir crazy folks....

I've had my morning breakfast that we ordered the night before NOT show up TWICE. Rude officers don't help either....

Never again.

Poor decision HAL.

Here's another option fo you to take care of that 'poor' decision: Get off the ship in Nicaragua tomorrow, collect your sign and fly home

[DAllenTCY]

Right now there are drooling attornies lining up to take that first case of swine flu contracted in Mexico because a cruise line did not heed the CDC directive to avoid "non essential" trips there.
I hope and pray that no more deaths occur and that the health professionals use the medications wisely that can combat this disease.
There is also the distinct possiblility that overuse of these drugs could cause an even more serious epidemic a few months or years down the road.
Let's keep everone safe.
David

[SDHALFAN]

HAL cancelled all four ports of call to Mexico. Turned back south and right now we're in Guatemala :(.....We're going to stay south and go to Nicaragua tomorrow. Two TERRIBLE ports.

Then we're off for another four days at sea to go to San Diego. Most people I've talked to are incredibly upset. HAL "chose" out of an "abundance of caution" to skip Mexico.

Cabo, Aculpulco will be sorely missed

Poor decision HAL.

Have you ever actually been to either Acapulco or Cabo? Believe me you are not missing much at all. Many seasoned Mexican Riviera cruisers don't even bother getting off the ship at either of these ports - once is more than enough (been there - done that and never need (nor want) to do that again).

Sorry you are not enjoying your fun in the sun but I would echo John (Copper 10-8), if you are so unhappy why not jump ship and fly home; then contact your attorney but I have a feeling that would be a total waste of your money considering that most, if not all, cruiselines are pulling out of Mexican ports right now.

Valerie

[kjw869]

Here's another option fo you to take care of that 'poor' decision: Get off the ship in Nicaragua tomorrow, collect your sign and fly home





That is by far the best advise I've heard yet!

Maybe even organize the "Tour of The Disgruntled" to disembark in Nicaragua and head up to Acapulco by plane or better yet, by mule for an exciting adventure.

[CowPrincess]

collect your sign

roflmao....

[bcnvcanada]

travel nowdays is full of ups and downs. enjoy the fact that you are able to go anywhere. we just got back from south america, stopping in nicaragura and loved it. it wasn't filled with time shares and venders everywhere. besides it is only a 70 usd ride to the airport some 90 k away. it sounds like you are doing better than most, at least it is warm. we have friends doing san diego, and los angles. they would rather be visiting other places, but are glad for just being away. relax and enjoy.

[kenish]

Here's another angle. It's possible that all entry to the US from Mexico could be cut off for awhile. (Not probable right now, but definitely possible). Some countries have banned flights from Mexico already. The same people with their knickers in a knot will really have something to whine about if they were stranded in Mexico. It would be similar to people stranded in the days after 9/11. I'm sure the cruise lines have thought about the possibility too, it would leave ships and crews stranded as well.

PS- I was a bit astonished at ABC World News Tonight coverage explaining the increase from alert level 4 to 5. The medical correspondant explained it was an indicator to governments and healthcare personnel and said it really didn't indicate increased threat to the average citizen. He also said he considered some WHO comments as somewhat exaggerated! I couldn't believe I was hearing this from the national media!

[swedish weave]

http://abinitioadinfinitum.files.wordpress.com/2007/08/jeannie.jpg

OK you convinced me--- The genie idea will work for me !!!!!

[Cruisin' Chick]

I've been reading some of the various threads on the different cruiseline boards from people complaining about their itinerary being changed. As someone pointed out, the cruiselines' contracts give them the right to change the itinerary or skip ports for reasons relating to your and the crew's safety and health.

One way to look at the situation: unless you can't afford another vacation, you can schedule another cruise to the same ports, or do a land vacation there. I'm still hoping to see Kona (the port we missed on my last cruise) one day. In the meantime, we're not taking any vacations because my husband has a family member with terminal cancer. So these complaints about not getting to see Puerta Vallerta or wherever sounds a bit petty to me now. You're on a cruise, for pete's sake. Enjoy it. (btw, I would rather sail up the coast of California than go to Mexico)

[Kyana]

People still amaze me and surprise me by their attitude. Glad I am not cruising with that individual. Happy Sailing everyone
:):)

[lorekauf]

Have you ever actually been to either Acapulco or Cabo? Believe me you are not missing much at all.


I like Cabo but Acapulco is a hole. The other stops the ship made are SO much better.

[Canuck-Ottawa]

On several cruises I have bypassed Half-Moon Cay because of weather. We just enjoyed the amenities of the Sea. The same thing could be done here. Ensenada is a stop that the Hawaiian Ship stops at. The Zaandam would have to find another foreign port to stop at but that should not be too hard. Stop at A Pacific Island before heading back.

The Zaandam doesn't need to worry about the flu problem, or Ensenada, on this (the last) cruise out of San Diego. After Hawaii, it's heading straight to Vancouver for the Alaska summer cruises.

[CRUZBUDS]

I don't think LJ1045 has the correct details...there are a bunch of dead people in Mexico. It's not just counting the number of cases

[mancunian]

I admit I would hate to end up with a lot of days at sea, but I certainly would not be complaining about it in these circumstances. I wonder what the people who are upset would say if they had docked in Mexico and the flu had got on the ship. Presumably HAL would have been negligent.

[san diego sue]

In the next few days there will be 12 ships in San Diego Port. this morning, there are two, looks like a Princess ship and a Carnival one.
the city is gearing up for this.
SeaPort village is sending shuttle buses to the pier.The web cam shows lots of activity at the port this morning.
For those of you that are going to make a unplanned San Diego stop, there is great things to do in San Diego. Our Museums in Balboa Park are wonderful. The Air and Space Museum, one of my favorites. There is the world famous zoo and also Sea World. San Diego is an incredible city if you haven't been here.
Believe me, Acapulco is a slum and for those of you missing it, be happy.

[ottergal]

Here's another angle. It's possible that all entry to the US from Mexico could be cut off for awhile. (Not probable right now, but definitely possible). Some countries have banned flights from Mexico already. The same people with their knickers in a knot will really have something to whine about if they were stranded in Mexico. It would be similar to people stranded in the days after 9/11. I'm sure the cruise lines have thought about the possibility too, it would leave ships and crews stranded as well.

PS- I was a bit astonished at ABC World News Tonight coverage explaining the increase from alert level 4 to 5. The medical correspondant explained it was an indicator to governments and healthcare personnel and said it really didn't indicate increased threat to the average citizen. He also said he considered some WHO comments as somewhat exaggerated! I couldn't believe I was hearing this from the national media!

Well, I'm not a doctor or an infectious disease specialist, but if you read the description of the alert levels I'm not sure they are TOO far off. Here are the level definitions:
Level 1- No animal influenza virus circulating among animals have been reported to cause infection in humans.

Level 2- An animal influenza virus circulating in domesticated or wild animals is known to have caused infection in humans and is therefore considered a specific potential pandemic threat.

Level 3- An animal or human-animal influenza reassortant virus has caused sporadic cases or small clusters of disease in people, but has not resulted in human-to-human transmission sufficient to sustain community-level outbreaks.

Level 4- Human to human transmission of an animal or human-animal influenza reassortant virus able to sustain community-level outbreaks has been verified.

Level 5- The same identified virus has caused sustained community level outbreaks in two or more countries in one WHO region.

Level 6- In addition to the criteria defined in Phase 5, the same virus has caused sustained community level outbreaks in at least one other country in another WHO region.

It has nothing to do with how severe a virus is or what it does to people, it's really addressing how wide spread it is. Mexico and the US infections were enough to get it to level 5 if I understand it correctly. Add a couple more countries, and you get level 6.

I'm not saying that people shouldn't take it seriously or be alert - but the idea that we should all start stalking up on food and guns to wait out the storm seem a bit premature to me. And I think that what the cruise lines are doing is smart, but I see people getting in a sort of panic... which kinda scares me a bit in general.

Just my opinion and interpretation of the available information.

[Nutrioso]

Boy! The underlying anger I detect in the post by LJ1045 is amazing. I hope I never end up on the same sailing with him (her?). This flu is a serious situation and resulting changes in travel plans are to be expected and accomodated for the benefit of everybody, not just to please LJ1045. ----Penny

[suse]

Well, I'd be happy to trade places with that unhappy camper, sorry, cruiser. I'm at work right now and he's ticked off on a cruise?????? Sometimes when you think you've heard it all.......................:confused:

[pipedreams62]

For The old rendition of

"My Husband And I Saved Our Whole Lives To See Mexico,This Was Our Dream And Holland America Denied Us"


http://pipedreams62.eaph2.com/share/afunstuff/01010301020401160220080826223da9e78e07c8babf00fa64 1.jpg

[suse]

Now, that is really funny!:D

[peaches from georgia]

Friends of ours are on a 4 day Carnival. Key West subbing for Cozumel. That sounds like a good deal to me. Love KW. :)

[suse]

The bars are better in Key West anyway!;)

[gemcrusier]

I know I would adjust , the cruise lines are not at fault they are taking precautions and doing what I feel is right the complained need to get over it . they are on vacation injoy the day talk to new people and relax they will be back to the grind soon enough .

[Kyana]

I know this is the HAL site but news today in our paper says the Mariner of the Seas will be visiting Victoria at least 6 times so far this upcoming season due to canceling their Mexico Cruises.

[kryos]

Believe me, Acapulco is a slum and for those of you missing it, be happy.
I'm gonna be honest here ... as someone from the East Coast, there is absolutely no way I would fly all the way to the West Coast for a Mexico cruise. There is just nothing there to see that would make that worthwhile to me. Hawaii, yes. Mexico, no.

I honestly don't think these people are missing that much. There are plenty of good US ports being added where I'd be willing to bet are a lot nicer. You mention San Diego, and I too agree that San Diego is a great place to visit. In fact, on our cruise next March leaving from San Diego, we're heading there two days ahead of time so that we can spend some time at the San Diego zoo. I'm sure there are plenty of other things we'll do in that extra day too. Anthony's Restaurant is always worth a stop ... they have delicious clam chowder in a bread bowel that is to die for. You can dine in the casual section, or go for a full-course dinner in the more "dressy" section at night.

Frankly, I'd take San Diego over Mexico anyday.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[lorekauf]

Frankly, I'd take San Diego over Mexico anyday.

--rita
Sounds like you have never been to the west side of Mexico so how would you know? I do like San Diego but I really like Mexico as well. I haven't been there in well over a year and I miss it. To have stops in the US only is not overly appealing to me. I do understand the cruiselines policy but if things are not better by Oct. I'm going to need to explore other options for my Oct.09 cruise.

[serendipity1499]

I don't think LJ1045 has the correct details...there are a bunch of dead people in Mexico. It's not just counting the number of cases

I agree with you...The only news Passengers get on board is from CNN..Perhaps they are not even making people aware of the CDC advisory..

On April 27 the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a notice recommending that "American citizens avoid all nonessential travel to Mexico" at this time.

Just received the following from an on-line Travel Agents newsletter:

Quote "As a result of this advisory and in an abundance of caution, major cruise lines that we represent have stopped calling on ports in Mexico and have developed--or are developing--positions with regard to future calls at ports in Mexico, while the outbreak lasts. We have been waiting for these official statements and I wanted to get them to you as quickly as they were available--hence the second newsletter this week." Unquote

Because of this advisory, those on board should be THANKFUL that Hal is concerned about Psgrs. & the Crew's health by-passing Mexico & taking steps to get them into alternate ports..I wonder how many Cruise Lines might be just cruising around & not have any substitute ports of call..

I volunteer with my Dog at a local School & Hospital...My DH, is normally not overly concerned about such things...Even he has asked me to stop going to the School & Hospital until we know if this terrible flu will become a Pandemic..

JMO...Cheers...Betty

[kryos]

Sounds like you have never been to the west side of Mexico so how would you know? I do like San Diego but I really like Mexico as well. I haven't been there in well over a year and I miss it. To have stops in the US only is not overly appealing to me. I do understand the cruiselines policy but if things are not better by Oct. I'm going to need to explore other options for my Oct.09 cruise.I think the cruise lines are offering deals for people who would prefer not to embark on the revised itinerary. They could get a full refund, or they could board the ship and get a substantial future cruise credit on another Mexico cruise at a later time.

I think the cruise lines are being very fair about this, and to be honest, I'd be more upset if they were still going to Mexico ports despite the risk. No passenger in their right mind can fault the cruise line for these itinerary changes.

It's like everytime you take a cruise ... you just have to roll with the punches. Look at those people who did Hawaii a few years back and wound up missing two out of the three ports due to an earthquake. They wound up with a 15 day cruise, having I think only three days on land. But, hey ... that sort of thing can happen and if you don't want to take that chance, then you don't cruise. It's as simple as that. If you really want to make sure you get to Hawaii, fly there and stay in a land resort. Then, if they have an earthquake that closes down the airport, you may very well be stuck there. But at least you'll get your days on that Hawaiian island, right? :)

I never take ANY port for granted, and if there was someplace I absolutely had to be ... maybe for a wedding or whatever ... I would never depend upon a cruise ship to get me there. I would simply bite the bullet and fly ... because there is just no other way to ensure I get there if getting there is at all possible.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[kryos]

Sounds like you have never been to the west side of Mexico so how would you know? I do like San Diego but I really like Mexico as well. I haven't been there in well over a year and I miss it. To have stops in the US only is not overly appealing to me. I do understand the cruiselines policy but if things are not better by Oct. I'm going to need to explore other options for my Oct.09 cruise.Betcha it can't top the Caribbean, though. And, as I said, I live on the East Coast. The Caribbean is a lot more convenient for me, so that is where I will go when I want beaches and sun.

Blue skies ...

--rita

[cccole]

Sounds like you have never been to the west side of Mexico so how would you know? I do like San Diego but I really like Mexico as well. I haven't been there in well over a year and I miss it. To have stops in the US only is not overly appealing to me. I do understand the cruiselines policy but if things are not better by Oct. I'm going to need to explore other options for my Oct.09 cruise.

I agree with you. If you are planning on a Mexican cruise a visit to Catalina and San Diego are not comparable. At this time of year I would be going to Mexico for some nice weather, beaches, and a change of pace.

I hope HAL is giving booked passengers the option of changing their dates, as Kryos suggests.

Cherie

[Boytjie]

Betcha it can't top the Caribbean, though. And, as I said, I live on the East Coast. The Caribbean is a lot more convenient for me, so that is where I will go when I want beaches and sun.

Blue skies ...

--rita


I have only been to Puerta Vallarta on a land vacation and it was as good as any Caribbean destination! I'd much rather go there than set foot in Jamaica or Grand Cayman.

[Copper10-8]

................... If you really want to make sure you get to Hawaii, fly there and stay in a land resort. .................................

No can do! You must have missed the vice president this morning;)

[Spinner2]

If you end up in Guatemala ask at the shore excursions desk if any of the tours still provide the little handmade gifts, made by local craftswomen, for the tour-takers. We got a couple of water bottle holders, hand-crocheted, and 2 handmade fans with very short handles and beautiful almost-quarter-circle fans. The water bottle holders are nice, but the fans! (Don't laugh!) Best fly-swatter ever; attractive enough to leave out on the table--house or yard, but something about the way they bend, a deadly hit on the fly is almost guaranteed. We love having them! Don't remember what the excursion was, but face it, everybody gets a fly in the house occasionally! We remember where we got the fans!

A lemonade from lemons public service announcement. . . :D

[sail7seas]

I think the cruise lines are offering deals for people who would prefer not to embark on the revised itinerary. They could get a full refund, or they could board the ship and get a substantial future cruise credit on another Mexico cruise at a later time.

I think the cruise lines are being very fair about this, and to be honest, I'd be more upset if they were still going to Mexico ports despite the risk. No passenger in their right mind can fault the cruise line for these itinerary changes.

Blue skies ...

--rita


I have not yet read what HAL or other lines are doing if people want to cancel and not do revised itineraries.

Apparently you have info they are giving refunds? Do you have a link to information about that or a source to give us?

It interests me.

[swedish weave]

There is an article on CC main page, but HAL is not mentioned.

[sassyredhat]

I've been following the "Live from the Splendor" thread as we're supposed to do the Mexican Riviera in September. What I can't get over is how many people are mad at CARNIVAL. (And this person over here is mad at HAL.) What choice do the powers-that-be have when the CDC has said:Robin

I just got off that infamous Splendor cruise. We chose to debark in LB because the night before we got a call that DS and DIL were going to the hospital, and they had the flu. They don't have H1---they have another strain.

We didn't expect any compensation--we read the insurance contract. We had a fairly nice cruise, but man are people p****ed. We just don't understand it either.
We think we made a good call, but we aren't the whiners. :)
Our friends onboard say that the mutiny continues.

As I look at our marina cam, I see 3 ships that have diverted.

I'd rather be safe.

Pat

[lorekauf]

I think the cruise lines are offering deals for people who would prefer not to embark on the revised itinerary. They could get a full refund, or they could board the ship and get a substantial future cruise credit on another Mexico cruise at a later time.

I think the cruise lines are being very fair about this, and to be honest, I'd be more upset if they were still going to Mexico ports despite the risk. No passenger in their right mind can fault the cruise line for these itinerary changes.

It's like everytime you take a cruise ... you just have to roll with the punches. Look at those people who did Hawaii a few years back and wound up missing two out of the three ports due to an earthquake. They wound up with a 15 day cruise, having I think only three days on land. But, hey ... that sort of thing can happen and if you don't want to take that chance, then you don't cruise. It's as simple as that. If you really want to make sure you get to Hawaii, fly there and stay in a land resort. Then, if they have an earthquake that closes down the airport, you may very well be stuck there. But at least you'll get your days on that Hawaiian island, right? :)

I never take ANY port for granted, and if there was someplace I absolutely had to be ... maybe for a wedding or whatever ... I would never depend upon a cruise ship to get me there. I would simply bite the bullet and fly ... because there is just no other way to ensure I get there if getting there is at all possible.

Blue skies ...

--rita
I'm not quite sure why you quoted my post.....nowhere in it did I say I can't understand why ports are being missed etc. I do understand that. I'm saying.....I don't wnat to go to all US destinations. That isn't the cruise I picked. If things don't change to my liking I'll need to change.

[lorekauf]

I agree with you. If you are planning on a Mexican cruise a visit to Catalina and San Diego are not comparable. At this time of year I would be going to Mexico for some nice weather, beaches, and a change of pace.


Cherie
Thank you...glad you understood what I was saying...:)

[SonomaDriver]

Virtually every cruise ship coming north from the Mexican Rivieria will try to stop at either San Diego, Catlina or perhaps Santa Barbara (though doubtful). San Diego as has been mentioned is an AMAZING city and many of the best things to do are within 15 mins of the pier.

If I'm correct, San Diego can take up to two large cruise ships at the same time and perhaps a smaller one. In a pinch, I could see a ship anchoring and using tenders to get people ashore; the harbor is a good size.

San Francisco would be popular as well but I remember reading that there aren't many "slots" for cruise ships to tie up there without reserving way ahead of time.

The notion that cruise ships would ignore, U.S. CDC and WHO warnings is patently absurd. Those of you on ships down there now that are gumpy, please either jump ship at the next port or have another cocktail and enjoy the weather, the decks, the pools and the fact you are not at your office working or staring at the four walls of your living room!

[wrp96]

If I'm correct, San Diego can take up to two large cruise ships at the same time and perhaps a smaller one. In a pinch, I could see a ship anchoring and using tenders to get people ashore; the harbor is a good size.


San Diego has space for at least 3 large cruiseships, 2 at the main pier, and 1 down at the pier next door.

[twinkletoes4445]

Friends of ours are on a 4 day Carnival. Key West subbing for Cozumel. That sounds like a good deal to me. Love KW. :)

I'd visit KW in a nanosecond over Cozumel. We love Key West. :)

[scopewest]

If I could take the time off from my job, I'd take one of the cruises to Canada asap. My dream would be for HAL to do one ship on this run next summer as an alternative to Mexico and Alaska. Yes, I've been to SF and Seattle....years ago!!! I'm sure there's some new sights to see and gee whiz, it'll support U.S. economy which could use a boost about now.

[tomtwice]

I'm joining Ryndam in Vancouver next week, straight after her Sea of Cortez/Mexican cruise....so I for one am delighted that HAL has chosen to skip the Mexican ports.... I was getting quite worried about it prior to getting news of cancelled ports...... Imagine if one of the passengers or crew became infected and spread the virus around in San Diego and/or Vancouver. :eek:
Good Decision HAL
Twotee

[Krazy Kruizers]

HAL cancelled all four ports of call to Mexico. Turned back south and right now we're in Guatemala :(.....We're going to stay south and go to Nicaragua tomorrow. Two TERRIBLE ports.

Then we're off for another four days at sea to go to San Diego. Most people I've talked to are incredibly upset. HAL "chose" out of an "abundance of caution" to skip Mexico.

As of right now there's more confirmed cases in the USA than Mexico. It's a worldwide "imminent pandemic." If it was such a concern, HAl wouldn't return to San Diego, but we all know that won't happen.

Cabo, Aculpulco will be sorely missed.

Add to the fact of terrible TV channels to try and kill some time (one can only drink/gamble/soak up sun so much of a day) and you've got some upset, stir crazy folks....

I've had my morning breakfast that we ordered the night before NOT show up TWICE. Rude officers don't help either....

Never again.

Poor decision HAL.

WOW -- we were on the same cruise!!

It didn't bother us that we had to miss all 4 Mexican ports -- have been to all of them many times -- no big deal -- would rather be safe than sorry.

Have been to Puerto Quetzal several times -- it's a great port. Corinto -- that was a new port for us -- enjoyed it.

I thought Captain Harris did an excellent job of finding us 2 ports -- he could have just had us sailing around for 7 sea days until we got to San Diego. He explained that they thought about going to Catalina Island before San Diego but unfortunately Catalina Island doesn't have a CBP there to process the passengers after visiting a foreign port. Santa Barbara was also mentioned -- but he explained that they require 6 months notification to dock a ship there. So the choices for ports were limited.

As for those 4 sea days -- the crew went out of their way to plan as many actitivies as possible to entertain everyone. If you got bored during those 4 days with so many activities, then I feel sorry for you -- maybe cruising isn't for you.

As for rude officers -- we sure didn't encounter any.

[sapper1]

Sounds like you have never been to the west side of Mexico so how would you know? I do like San Diego but I really like Mexico as well. I haven't been there in well over a year and I miss it. To have stops in the US only is not overly appealing to me. I do understand the cruiselines policy but if things are not better by Oct. I'm going to need to explore other options for my Oct.09 cruise.
Hey Lorene---If you decide to change cruises, why don't you join us on the Eurodam Sept 26.---14 days Quebec City to Ft. Lauderdale. Should be great fun. Everyone thinks it's a hoot that we are sailing into our own city on the way. I make a joke (and believe me it is only a joke) that I can run home and do laundry. :eek:

[lorekauf]

Hey Lorene---If you decide to change cruises, why don't you join us on the Eurodam Sept 26.---14 days Quebec City to Ft. Lauderdale. Should be great fun. Everyone thinks it's a hoot that we are sailing into our own city on the way. I make a joke (and believe me it is only a joke) that I can run home and do laundry. :eek:
That sounds tempting but that pesky work keeps getting in the way:eek:. It's quarter end and I'll have my 2 busiest work days Oct.8 &9:mad:.

[sapper1]

That sounds tempting but that pesky work keeps getting in the way:eek:. It's quarter end and I'll have my 2 busiest work days Oct.8 &9:mad:.
That was a quick reply----must be a slow day today;) Seriously--keep it in mind. Would love to sail with you again.

[solocanadian]

How about the Ryndam -- A ten day trip to the Sea of Cortez, and they made Puerto Vallarta but the other five ports are cancelled and they don't have any other ports within hundreds of miles.
Was on this fateful cruise. They substituted with San Diego and comp. city tour or San Diego Zoo, Long Beach, Avalon, Catalina Island.:(

[sail7seas]

Hey Lorene---If you decide to change cruises, why don't you join us on the Eurodam Sept 26.---14 days Quebec City to Ft. Lauderdale. Should be great fun. Everyone thinks it's a hoot that we are sailing into our own city on the way. I make a joke (and believe me it is only a joke) that I can run home and do laundry. :eek:

Two years ago for one of our Canada/New England cruises, we boarded in Boston, cruised seven days and returned to Boston. We stayed aboard and repeated. :) We live in Boston. For us, on itineraries we've done before, it is all about the ship. We stayed aboard in Boston on our turnaround day. ;)

[lorekauf]

That was a quick reply----must be a slow day today;) Seriously--keep it in mind. Would love to sail with you again.
No, I was on my lunch hour. Now...I'm just burnt out and sick of working:D.I'd love to sail with you guys again too.

[sapper1]

Two years ago for one of our Canada/New England cruises, we boarded in Boston, cruised seven days and returned to Boston. We stayed aboard and repeated. :) We live in Boston. For us, on itineraries we've done before, it is all about the ship. We stayed aboard in Boston on our turnaround day. ;)
I am guessing that you didn't run home and do a quick load of laundry!!:D

[photomikey]

Everyone thinks it's a hoot that we are sailing into our own city on the way. I make a joke (and believe me it is only a joke) that I can run home and do laundry. :eek:
We visited San Diego (our home city) on our honeymoon cruise. I made a big deal out of it, inviting some friends to have drinks with us downtown. Kept making jokes about what a great city this is, and how we wished we lived there. Bid bon voyage to our friends about how we'd call the next time we were in town... the next weekend. :-)

[Copper10-8]

We visited San Diego (our home city) on our honeymoon cruise. I made a big deal out of it, inviting some friends to have drinks with us downtown. Kept making jokes about what a great city this is, and how we wished we lived there. Bid bon voyage to our friends about how we'd call the next time we were in town... the next weekend. :-)

Did you happen to go to " Dick's Last Resort" by any chance?;)