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Dr. Cocktail

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About Me

  • Location
    Ontario
  • Favorite Cruise Line(s)
    MSC, NCL, Celebrity
  • Favorite Cruise Destination Or Port of Call
    Antarctica, Bermuda

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  1. So sorry to hear this! Losing an animal is THE worst. The same thing happened to us after a cruise 16 years ago but unfortunately, she didn't last until our return. Her "replacements" (personality so big that two required) are turning 16 but please don't tell them that they're geriatric! They would both strenuously object! Again, so sorry that you had to go through this. I'm glad that you got to enjoy Explora but disappointed that it wasn't the best fit for you. At my stage in life, the product works exceptionally well for me.
  2. I have no problem when out of a maximum of 461 suites, only 5% of those that paid three times what I paid have access to the YC area. Especially when the island is basically empty. But ... and with no disrespect intended, if this is unacceptable to you, don't book. Aside from Ocean Cay, you have universal access to everything on the ship.
  3. I think that you have to get out of the entire "YC mindset". The YC pampers you by making you feel special among a vast crowd. They emphasize this with the private decks, lounges and restaurants. Explora, like most of the luxury lines is far more egalitarian - everyone is treated the same, that is - fabulously ! Better food, better restaurants, few announcements and a well-travelled crowd. I wish that I could explain it better - It's an overall quieter, more refined and relaxed experience. No real lines, no noise. Definitely no bling! My expectations of a private island were minimal. It was just nice to pull up to the dock (no tendering), walk off and have a relaxed day with friends. We were literally seated and chatting four minutes after stepping off the dock. The true luxury is and was space and no fuss.
  4. The very nice Mike (who is even nicer in person!) beat me to the punch. If you're getting off one of the big MSC ships, his number of 5000 is absolutely correct. MSC did a brilliant job of dressing up what is arguably the worst beach on the island and making it "exclusive". Just 'cause it's "special" doesn't mean it's the best. On our sailing (same one as MIke), we docked after lunch so we had already eaten. We had our choice of spots with shade and umbrellas as we were sailing with "only" 650 passengers. Food trucks were open for lite bites/tapas and the bar had bottles of While not Champage, it's not particularly cheap either! I was serving as waiter for our group of 5 and as my carrying skills are not worth *%&*^%, I asked the bartender if I could just get the glasses and entire bottles. No problem! An extremely relaxing afternoon. I totally respect PrivateIdaho's posts so experiences may differ. We've also sailed in YC many times and have no intention to return. Explora is totally a ballgame of a different colour!
  5. Steel railings… I think 🤔 that it’s meant for watersports and such while docked… Chairs? Yes! Chaise loungers?
  6. I knew I had seen these images - found them in the original brochure!
  7. But wait - there’s more! The aft water sports platform and bar (!) has yet to be deployed. There’s a “mystery” staircase that’s roped off just next to the Astern Lounge and aft of the Sakura entrance. The door to it has “Valletta” written on it. (im)patiently waiting….
  8. I would charge you for the privilege of having Suite Water rain down from the heavens. ps .... thanks for letting me cut in! So sorry that we missed each other by one sailing!
  9. I didn't realize that the numbers went down so low .....
  10. Anchors are EXTREMELY destructive to reefs and the ocean floor. All the latest generation ships have avoided their use for years. It’s not the Captain per se - it’s an automated gps based system.
  11. I can trip over an imaginary line and always keep a sharp eye. If that's the deck in front of the Helios pool, that would be such an easy repair. Just take the mitred end piece and replace it in a contrasting colour. EVERYONE out there would warn each other!
  12. I'm sorry we didn't meet in November! Just got off Friday and still fabulous. There's presently a live thread that has them posted.
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