Georgia_Peaches

Thank you for posting this link. I noticed that some of the footage in the video offers a more realistic vantage point of distance from shore. Still too close for comfort but not as close as some of the pics in this thread suggest. Again, I go back to my 48 hour rule...more and more information unfolding. I have no doubt that the state of HI will have something to say about this which should prompt regulations to ensure that this doesn't happen again.

We enjoyed MSC's food immensely. It's why so many people begin their review with food is subjective... Good thing there are so many cruising options. I, for one no longer cruise RCI but it has nothing to do with the food...I've always found it rather enjoyable. Truth is, we don't have small kids anymore so we've moved on. Still a great option for families, IMO.

Unless you have personal experience and inside knowledge to support this, it remains an opinion and one that is speculative, at that. I have never sought the attention of the captain of any cruise ship. I don't care if they have a sense of humor or are entertaining. Further, I have no desire to mingle with the captain nor do I care if he/she is personable or approachable. The only thing I care about is getting from all points safely and efficiently. I agree that many captains have become a personality of sorts, many with personified celebrity status. Captain Kate comes to mind with her videos and behind-the-scenes looks into her quarters and even her cat. At the end of the day, all this seems to have resulted in people confusing their maritime expertise with their celebrity persona. I do not for one second believe that the captain at the helm of any Celebrity cruise ship lacks common sense or the ability to navigate the waters in which we cruise. Rather, I defer to the 48 hour rule...which is to let things unfold as they will, and @chengkp75's explanation of the likely chain of command regarding navigation and applicable notes and rules there in. All else is opinion and speculation...in my opinion, of course.

Understood. In my field (middle school principal...retired...whew!) the reverse was true. One was entitled to due process prior to being removed unless it was an egregious act of violence or impropriety towards/with a student. I can appreciate that many professions do not operate in this manner.

I did a lot of research on line and came across a site that allows you to create an account and post the details of a desired cruise: ship, sail date, room category etc. In the notes I indicated I was interested in a group rate. After inputting all of my cruise info. it went out to a database of TA's who essentially bid for your business with their best offer. You can pick among the offers or not...completely up to you. Unfortunately, rules won't allow me to name the site but with some key word searches I'm sure it would pop up.

Hi @Norwaylady and a big WHEW on your behalf! I know how tiresome home reno work is and also know how much sweeter it will make your journey with your DM. I, too and looking forward to taking my DM on a Reflection cruise in July. Mother-daughter time is so special. Thank you for taking us along on another of your journeys.

@chengkp75 your insights and commentary on all things cruise ships is both fascinating and greatly appreciated. Thank you for the detailed breakdown.

Yes, they will credit to your acct the 5%. At least, that’s how it worked for us.

Remove first, then investigate? 🤔

For us it was the novelty of doing it while on vacation….and on a cruise ship, no less. I’ve no doubt there are several places to do this in my area but once I’m out of vacation mode I’ve no time to blow glass into a vase or paperweight.

But you can get the additional 5% once on board. We did it this way and it worked out fine.

My understanding is that positive remarks left for crew can result in helping them elevate through the ranks via promotions and greater responsibility/pay. It should also be noted that positive remarks that do not accompany a 10 rating does the reverse. We had a great room attendant on Ascent and I wanted to make sure she was recognized. She explained that if there was anything about the experience that was less than a 10 rating, it would impact negatively, even if my remarks were positive. I have also learned that most Celebrity crew are quite tight lipped on specifics such as perks and awards from the company.

Wow! That's awesome! It seems the only thing consistent about Celebrity is their inconsistency from ship to ship! It's why I completely agree that the OP should call again.

That's how they did it when we did the hot glass class. The price you pay is an entry price..meaning, you may select to make a piece that is priced higher than the reservation price on line. Therefore, you pay the difference when you complete the class and will get your discount for the full amount at that time. If you do not make a more expensive piece then the 5% is credited back to your account. The other option is to book the class on embarkation day. It fills up quickly so if you go this route, don't delay in signing up for the class. Going this route ensures you get the 5% off whatever piece you make without having to get the credit to your account.

Thank you for the pics! I'm very intrigued by your cabin but the lack of an awning would be a deal breaker for me as I can't tolerate much sun. And I appreciate you taking one for the team by ordering the B&P! 😊