WindinmySails

Thank you all! Sounds like it should go quickly if everyone else is off the ship and clears customs. I'll have a couple of Guy's burgers for you fyree!

When can I reasonably expect to get on the ship? I do not have the faster to the fun option.

Should I insure my prepaid drink package, or will Carnival refund that or give me credit if something happens?

Thanks!

It's all good! I realize people live it up on these. I've been on two four day cruises and enjoyed theme very much for a quick get away.

Thanks so much for the info about the embarkation and weather. I figured it would be cooler, but didn't know that it could be by that much. I've never been to southern California. I do realize it isn't the Bahamas....hopefully, though will be able to get some pool time in.

With embarkation....I hope that I can get early, though our flight lands at 9:30 am. Is there a way to change it if you don't like the time?

Hello Cruisers!

This will be my first Carnival cruise. It will only be a short one the week of Thanksgiving. Catalina and Ensenada. We opted for this after seeing what was going on in the Caribbean.

We are in our late 50s early 60s.

We will be flying in around 9 am. What time can we board? I have heard that uber is a great way to get to the Port. Any great tips would be so appreciated. I have been going through threads and cannot find all that much information on this short 4 day cruise.

What are foods to not miss? Activities that you love that are not to miss.

Does anyone know about what the weather will be like in November at these ports? Thank you in advance!

Great ideas so far. I agree, if you don't want to spend money, you don't have to..that is what I do on land. :)

Up to $15 on a drink sounds reasonable as well. I typically go for a glass of wine, or maybe a mojito. Not a huge drinker.

I do know that planning makes all things better. Thanks all for the great comments!

Hello!

It has been a long time since I have been on a cruise and I have a few questions about my up coming Escape cruise July 2. I will be traveling with my elderly parents. My dad is currently going through cancer treatments; he is 83, Mom is 79. So please keep that in mind as they are not as mobile as they used to be. What does the muster drill for elderly look like? On RCL we would meet out on the decks with life jackets on, is it the same on NCL?

I heard that shows and restaurants fill up quickly. So must one make reservations for shows and dining how to go about...done before hand or on the ship? We are on a limited budget, so would prefer to not pay extra for anything if we could.

So that brings me to upcharges for things such as lobster and room service. Some have stated that room service is only charged for if a hot meal is involved, not just coffee. Of course I would tip.

I have also read that they "nickel and dime" you to death, is this true and how to avoid this?

How early to embark on ship with 7:00 pm departure...how early can we get on the ship? We will be driving from the Sarasota area. We are not sure if it would be cheaper to do a rental car or pay for parking at the dock.

What is included in the unlimited beverage package...we purchased some, do they add an additional charge for the "free" beverages after you've paid for the package? Does the beverage package include all venues on the ship? I have read from others that there are other charges in addition to the beverage package.

I've only sailed on Royal....differences? I am pretty open minded and just love cursing in general. :)

My mom would love to go to the casino a night or two. Do we avoid fees for gambling if you take cash only?

Any other "insider tips" would be so appreciated. I know that traveling with elderly parents will bring a whole new spin to cruising, but I am just so happy to be going.

Thanks in advance!

My parents are aboard also, thanks for the day by day...if you meet Las (Laszlo) and Judy. They have hungarian accents..they are mine! have a fun time and looking forward to your updates!!

Charlotte

My youngest wondered what that was all about, my oldest just snickered.

sorry, can't get just one picture--help please?

Is the card available on Rhapsody?

The first day, wandering the ship and getting my bearings...

Lots of sunscreen--saw many in misery.

ipod with mini speakers for room

battery recharger--for camera batteries, speaker batteries, did AA and AAA

two large bottles of wine--even paying corkage, it was a bargain

over the door shoe thingy