Brief Review - Grandeur 8/15- Part 1

As a first timer, thought I would share some observations and comments.

Basically we loved the cruise, so not much in the way of complaining herein:

OK, to start, Baltimore Port, even though it appears to be a temp facility, had an efficient boarding system, and things went smoothly - less hassle than your average airport check in. We arrived 12 noon, were onboard and into our cabin (deck 4, inside) by 1:30, and up to the Windjammer for lunch. Departed on time at 5, and had the chance to see us pass under the bridge before heading to dinner.

Rest of Day 1, and Day 2 at sea - I was concerned about being bored to have the first 2 days without a port call, but soon found out there was plenty to do. Between the shows, casino, Cajun dance classes, etc. we were soon into cruise mode, and could care less if we were at port or not.

Day 3- Freeport, Bahamas. The weak point of the cruise. If there is an uglier docking area anywhere, I don't want to see it. Went to the lecture to hear about Freeport, obviously the only thing that RC is interested in here is the shopping - evidently there must be a strong financial tie, that's all they pushed. Didn't do an excursion, but heard positive on kayaking, and negative on Tranquility beach from others. We took the taxi to Lucaya ($5 each way). Had little interest in the shopping, but had a look, then we crossed the street to the Sheraton. We walked through the lobby, but there is also a public beach access to the right of the hotel. Pretty nice beach for a swim, and there are beach showers available. Hotel guests have wristbands for the pools, but we took a brief dip with no problems.

Day 4 - Key West. We docked at Hilton Marina, not Mallory Square. The Customs check takes a while, so we were not off until about 10AM. We booked the Fury Snorkel, and had a great time. Book direct on the Fury Website, and save $9, we were on the same boat as the RC bookings. Also, the Hilton Dock has great access to the tourist area. Have been in KW many times before, and the ship was more convenient than any hotel where we've stayed. All in all a great day.

Day 5 - CocoCay. A great facility, had a blast. Walk straight to the beach, and then turn right along the beach if looking for uncrowded, shaded areas. If snorkeling but not with the group, ask someone where the reef is, we wasted some time looking at sand. For a reef being walked all over all the time by hoards of people, was actually in pretty good shape, there are some nice sea fan areas. Saw a BIG stingray. The BBQ buffet is pretty good, some items were a bit cold. I was impressed with roominess of the place, they must have 3 lounge chairs for each guest.

Day 6 - RC tries to get the Orlando excursion people off ASAP, and customs was less hassle than Key West. As we had been to Orlando many times, we rented from Budget (if you call the local number, they have a deal on a same day return that is better than online). Drove around all day just to see some new stuff, the highlight of which was DeLeon Springs State Park - nice swimming in a crystal-clear spring, and a neat little pancake house where you make your own at the table.

Day 7 - at sea. Bummed because are headed north, but made up for it by a little win in the casino so that I went home ahead.

Day 8 - had to be out of the cabin by 8AM. Thought this would be a pain, but we had breakfast, then they had a movie in the theater, and found comfy chairs near the Windjammer. We one of the last groups off around 11:30, seemed like no time. Disembark is different. At embark you drop off luggage at the dock and then park. At disembark, all people and luggage are loaded into motorcoaches, and taken together to the parking area. Works well - a good system.

That covers the trip. I will soon post Part 2, with some comments on the ship, dining, staff, etc.

Thanks for taking the time to post your review. It sounds like you had an awesome cruise!

DCman22 .... Thanks for telling us about your GOS (love that ship) cruise out of Baltimore! Can't wait for the rest of your review! :)

Part 2 is posted. As of right now (3:15 PM), it was at the bottom of the 1st page.