jeblack1

And that is when we will be there. I would like to do it, but my wife doesn't seem convinced. We will likely drive by and if there is a spot, then we'll consider ourselves lucky and if not, then move on.

What are the odds you can just drive up and do be able to do this without reservations?

Did you have any trouble getting a taxi at the airport?

the link is very helpful! thank you!

Yikes....I have read that the bathrooms are smaller, but even if they are smaller, at least you don't have to share it with the shower curtain creeper....now I am wondering if I should try to switch to a room that is opposite with the bed near the window.

Looking at photos it appears the Excel class balcony rooms appear a bit small, but the sq footage seems to indicate about the same. To those that have been on both, is it a big difference or not noticeable at all? I know the Excel Class alternates where the bed and couch is, so that could be a factor as well. This is just for standard balcony.

We went there last year and did a cruise tour as I wasn't familiar with the island, but this year (going back there) we are renting a car and doing it ourselves so we can spend more time at the the beach, with turtles and stop where we want if we see something interesting. Downside about renting a car (from where we are renting anyway) is that is has to be back 2 hours before the ship leaves. No ideal, but rather that than be on a bus.

Some ports I would feel extremely safe doing a self guided tour or finding an excursion in the port (Aruba, Grandy Cayman, Cozumel, San Juan, St Thomas), but others there is no way I do anything like that (Jamaica, Belize, Honduras, DR (any of the ports), Nassau. They may be perfectly safe, but infrastructure alone can cause issues trying to get back to the port if something happens. In those situations is it best to have the guarantee from the cruise line. Anything can happen anywhere, but to quote Jurassic Park "If the pirates of the Caribbean breaks down, the pirates don't eat the tourists!" Just be sure to do your research and know your time limitations.

we have a balcony on room 17257 in June, so can't really report anything on it right now, but can give you an answer in a couple of months. I did read that if you want some privacy, do not book on the inset balconies as the cabins in green from the post above can see everything, however, they may be more shaded. Haven't been on a ship like this one before, but seems to be at least partially covered on the balcony from the video below:

Last year we did the A&C + La Romana and Amber Cove on the Horizon. This year we are doing the ABC. Have been to the DR 3 times and haven't been impressed either time. Aruba - Lots to do and always great to rent an off road ATV and explore to eastern side of the island and great views from the lighthouse. Can also drive the ATV's all over the island, so that is a plus. Bonaire....looks promising...will let you know after June. Curacao - great beaches with snorkeling with fish and turtles. and lots of opportunities for cliff jumping (if they like adventure). Also, these places all seem very safe (except for a widely publicized murder), so it is easy to get out on your own and not be stuck with cruise tours - Something I would not do in the DR.

Sooo....it seems I will have to try this and report back. Sounds like it will likely be a "no," but may try it anyway and see what happens. 🙂 Thank you to everyone for the comments!

I would imagine you pre order a bottle of liquor to your stateroom prior to embarkation and make the shots in your room...just have to bring the other materials.

We will be on the Celebration in June and I really love the bitter and blanc, but in Aruba the day it appears to be going to be served in the MDR (know things are subject to change as well). Can you get food to go from the MDR? I have seen people take food back to the room after table service, but not just waiting around on the food at the entrance like it is Texas Roadhouse. We will not be getting back on the ship until late and will not be able to shower and be back out for the dinner time.

I submitted on our recent cruise and it was approved. What would be considered a discount rate? We just booked with a normal sale price.

Week and a half? You must be on the same cruise we are! Also enjoying the review!