denamo

We did Hideaway Bay (adults only beach) in May. Tram took us right to the area. It was not a busy day, so it was quiet. We chose to go there since we had some on board credit and able to book less than $50 each. It was the first time we've ever paid for any spot while at Coco Cay. It was nice since the pool was heated (mostly just warm) and the sea was pretty cool at that time. Getting to food and drink was very easy. Offerings there were different and very tasty than other food stands we'd eaten at Coco Cay before. Depending on how party vibe you want to experience, will depend on where you choose to grab a lounger. The other comment we hear is if one has some mobility issues, there won't be little ones running around. We had a nice experience and would definitely consider it again. Keep an eye out for sales. Might find a good one during Black Friday sales. If trying to save a few bucks, no need to spend and still have a great time! A post I read also mentioned checking what ships are there on your scheduled cruise. This poster mentioned when they went it was very busy, so the separate pay areas were less busy. I believe they said the Icon and an Oasis class ship was there. Lots of people!

Yes, we were surprised and delighted when we were told the BOGO could be used for lunch. We didn't ask, a staff person came by trying to get reservations, and mentioned it was offered. Win/win! Never hurts to ask for sure.

We recently were on the Radiance, and learned we could use our Diamond Plus BOGO for lunch. We did use it on one day. Is this practice across the fleet?

Recently on the Radiance. We had gone to an event and were talking to some other cruisers when approached about the Chef's Table. We were a group of four. One guy several times said "no", the I was being addressed and said "no" also. Didn't really stop the delivery of the spiel of how wonderful, delicious, great experience it is. Finally, we were left alone. That's the most aggressive I've ever seen. Have seen them going around the dining room hawking the specialty dining. Not enjoyable during a meal.

Haven't seen it in under $40 either in a long while. That would be a great price. We've only used Hideaway once and did like it especially since we were able to use on board credit.

Last time we did a cruise that included Coco Cay in January, a freak cold front came through with strong winds, and the port was skipped. No one, including us, was really prepared for how cold it became. So weatherwise, seems anything can happen on a cruise. 🙂

One difference I read is how loud the Utopia is, Purpose is to create a party vibe. Would have more ship to explore, and more specialty restaurants. It's the only Oasis class we've not yet sailed. We are sailing on the Mariner in September, and looking forward to it even though we typically prefer the larger ships. The Voyager class was the first we experienced a Promenade on, and we were totally impressed. Haven't cruised on the Mariner in several years, so it will be nice to cruise her again.

Just off the Icon. We absolutely had a wonderful experience. One of our favorite features is the elevator system. Great solution to avoid the numbers of those on board move about quickly. Like the venue that mirrors the Promenade Cafe (Pearl Cafe) is on 6 rather than on 5. Much more room. All the entertainment was remarkable. The many food venues are a plus. Keeps the Windjammer from becoming so crowded. We were fortunate to have gotten such a great rate to cruise the Icon. No way would we do it at current prices. We don't need the "water park" feature. Oasis class ships are great for us and even the Freedom class.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. This is helpful.

Wondering if traffic might be a concern about traffic if we stayed at an airport hotel (possibly Hyatt), then shuttled to the cruise port the next morning. We would be traveling on the Saturday of the cruise. Thanks for the input.

What a great review! I contacted our TA today for a quote to consider booking VV. It would actually be a five day before a Royal 7 day...a side by side. Your take seems to be probably what ours would be as well. Guess it's one of those experiences to have at least once. Thanks again for the all encompassing review!

This is my situation precisely for an upcoming Princess cruise. How soon before cruising did you have your cabin assigned? Want to print our luggage tags if possible rather than getting at port. The responses posted were what I needed. Thanks for your post with the questions.

Any updates if Captain Johnny is back on the Harmony? If not, who is serving as captain?

So glad to have found this information via a search. This was extremely helpful.

Thanks for the clarification of closed loop vs open-jaw. Thanks for the links.

reedprincess, Yes we are US citizens. Going to Mexico, Aruba, Antigua, Curacao, and Tortola. Thanks for the info.

Know that on a closed loop Caribbean cruise, an "official" birth certificate can be used. We'll be on the Regal in March leaving Galveston and heading to Fort Lauderdale. Is this considered a closed loop since not returning to the same port? We have passports that will be cutting it close to the six months needed to use for this cruise. Have always read six months prior to passport expiring were needed. Not sure if we have to meet the six month requirement for each port or just from the day we embark. Thanks for any information.

Was looking for this exact topic. Several cruises ago, just one of us booked specialty dining and then used the BOGO (before the cruise pause). Specialty restaurants still allowing to book this way?

What a stressful experience. Will really take your experience to heart as we are on the Wonder in late September. We were on an Alaska cruise when Harvey was in the Gulf. Son kept telling us it was headed straight for our area. We actually live near the Gulf of Mexico in TX. About 30 minutes from South Padre Island. At the last minute, it all changed, and Harvey decided to head to Houston! YIKES. Probably why you were being told it was ok to come until it wasn't. We were delayed getting home, but no where near what you experienced. That was tough.

Thank you for sharing your experience. Just two of us and both have TSA Pre, so definitely looks doable.

We will actually be on the repositioning of the Regal from Galveston to Fort Lauderdale. Maybe we should just stay on and do a transalantic since the day we reach Fort Lauderdale the Regal will be heading to Southampton, England!😄

Yes, fully mobile. Have done carry off before. Was concerned about how soon they might let us disembark. Thanks for your response.

Thank you so much for the explanation.

We do not typically cruise on Princess. It has been several years, so trying to learn about some of the differences. Have booked a cruise in spring 2024. If you cruise as Princess Standard, then anytime you order room service there will be a $14.99 fee plus if you order any pay item? Pretty steep.

Been awhile since we've cruised on the Regal. Wondering if it is possible to make a 10:50 AM flight? I know the airport is very close to the cruise port. Always heard a safe bet is not before noon. Sadly 10:50 AM is the latest flight to our final destination without having to spend the night in Fort Lauderdale.