Laslo294

To the right of the pier is a bit rocky and can get rough. If you take a cab ($8) to Governors beach where the town is- very "rustic", you probably wont want to walk it as a drive through is enough. Better snorkeling is a bit further up at Pillory beach. We did Governors at "the Wall" and it was OK. Limited variety as there is no coral. Also did the beach near the pier -past Jacks Shack and saw very little. Personally, Grand Turk is just beach and a cheap construction site for another Carnival port and Margaritaville. Hopefully the $$ will help the island as it is a wonderful place and the people are great. Just not much else as a destination.

Book an excursion. This was the first time we did not and found Aruba to be the worse port we've ever visited. I'll chalk it up to my fault and going on Aruba's reputation. But I found the port side of the island; town, hotel area to be lacking. Again, poor planning on my part but Aruba is not a "just show up and it will Wow you" kind of place.

Considering renting golf cart or scooter and do some snorkeling. How safe is it to leave a rental (as locked as possible) while on the beach? I'm not inclined to do this but thought I might get a surprising, "Yes, no one will bother..."

I hate it when that lady I share a cabin with steals the covers (somebody talk to her)

I hate that table-mate who is a know-it-all (usually helped by a few too many)

I kinda hate the constant hawking of on-board purchases.

The pre-paid gratuity and 15% drink tip.

Thanks for the Nathans info. Is the $80 rates for all day/ 1/2 day ?

Also , haven't seen much on scooter(vespa) rental. Did this on Cozumel and loved seeing the island on 2 wheels.

Been a while since I've been on. I probably didn't provide enough info. We are not opposed to the beach(since there are a few in the islands) but that's not our main focus. Did cave tubing in Belize, Mayan ruins in Coast Maya, explored Cozumel. Only snorkeling has been in Hawaii so looking to do that. San Juan history is a plus. Coming from Charleston SC history has its place. And no, will not be leaving out of Chas. due to limited options and ship. New England is a possibility although may have to adjust dates since anything under 70 is far too cold :)

So, just a follow-up.. happy cruising

Considered that and possibly one day. But flight doubles cost of trip. Will just give in and do Italy at that point. Thanks though

Living near a beach we don't really want to spend our time on one so that aspect doesn't play into a decision. Do want snorkeling. Otherwise like to explore an island and see and do native excursions; bike, hike, tour, kayak etc.

Looking at Aruba, Curacao, G Turk itinerary. Are these best for those criteria or will others? San Juan, St M, St T being the other option. Have done Western and loved renting scooter on Cozumel and Cave tubing in Belize.

Thanks friends...

"Tampa please and we had three years of duty with the navy in Charleston so we are quite familiar with your city. "

Please tell the rest of the country that. After winning Best City 3 years straight the influx of tourists has only increased (after a decade on the rise)

The charm of the city will be one soon.

As for Ports; Living in Charleston I have no real desire to cruise from here. Price+Destinations do not negate the minimal cost to drive to Canaveral.