GAgaltravel

Posting here rather than cruise line because I am curious as how this is specific to western Mediterranean cruises. I know we will use our carrier's cell service for ports of call during our trip, but what's the possibility of having any service while on board the ship while cruising? We've only ever done Caribbean cruises in the past. Trying to decide on purchasing the ships WiFi - which I know can be iffy. This is not for streaming, just keeping in touch with family at home. Thanks!

Love this advice. I have learned to “loosen up” over the years. Last summer my husband and I did a Viking cruise and decided to spend a couple of days in Paris. The only thing planned was our flight and hotel room. We had the best time! Thanks for sharing.

Thanks so much for your help. It puts my mind at ease!

Thanks for the reassurance! I need to be more “go with the flow.” And if we miss the express we can take another train. We’re so excited for this trip!

You’re right! I’m overly stressed! 😊 First time my 22 year old daughter has been overseas and my first time traveling overseas without my husband with us. And… I’m a bit of an over planner. Your response has helped tremendously. Thank you! On this ticket could you do express train into Rome and non express back? Would give us more time not having to catch 4:00 express.

I believe the shop docks at 6:00 a.m. My concern is the thousands of passengers disembarking to catch the 9:00 a.m. express train. Do you remember what time you disembarked? RCCL has an expensive "express train" excursion ($95!!) that is basically shuttle to station and express train tickets to and from port. I can't stomach the $200 it would cost the two of us, but wondering if it would be worth the peace of mind.

Thanks everyone for the feedback! Lots to consider!

Thanks for the insight. My thought is we’ll be nibbling on all the yummy food at our stops and won’t mind the 8:30 dinner time.

Thanks for the feedback. Do you book your time on the app each day or just show up during the designated MTD time frame?

Just what I needed to hear! Thanks for commenting!

My daughter and I are cruising in June on Oasis of the Seas out of Barcelona. The early dining is already booked. The late dining is at 8:30. We are currently scheduled for MTD. I've read previous posts about issues being seated for MTD, long wait times, etc. I do like having the same wait staff every night, too, so the 8:30 might be a better option (if I can stay awake that long!) Any advice? Would MTD be difficult with only the two of us?

Curious if anyone has done this. It appears a motor coach takes you from port to Rome where you take open air bus and hop off when you like. You meet motor coach for drive back to cruise ship. There are two of us at $80 a person. I typically don't like the cruise ship excursions and know there are cheaper options, but I'm traveling with my 22 year old daughter and wondering if it will be less stressful than navigating train. Would love your thoughts!

I've seen several posts that touring Rome in a golf cart is a great way to see several attractions in a short port of call stop. Can someone tell me the exact website to book this? There are several variations of the name, and it looks like there are a few companies that offer this. Which is recommended? TIA!

Ignore previous question! Roger, I just found your post with suggestions! Thanks!

My daughter and I will be traveling by cruise ship to Palma de Mallorca in June. Would like to spend that day at a beach club with access to chairs, restrooms, snacks, etc. I would love recommendations that are easy to reach from cruise terminal. TIA!

@mapleleaves Thanks for the information. Should we purchase these tickets ahead of time? I'm guessing with the cruise ships there and only one departure time that its going to be crazy busy. I also just discovered that our cruise has passengers boarding the cruise in Rome. (We board in Barcelona). Maybe this is an advantage? Thanks!

Thanks for the advice do far. I realized I incorrectly said "hire a car." I have absolutely no desire to drive in Rome. 🙂 I meant hire a driver, taxi, transport service, etc.

What is the best way to travel from Civitavecchia into Rome city center? We are cruising Royal Caribbean but I don't want to do any of their excursions. Will they offer transportation? Should we hire a car? Thanks in advance! We will be there in June.