Boo's Mom

A few things I have learned through the years: 

1.  Just because there is a lawsuit does not necessarily mean there was malfeasance. 

2.  Just because there is something in the news does not mean that it is factual. 

I reserve all judgment until I see facts presented in court by both sides. 

We are seeing one side of the story. 

And I don't think Celebrity should be tried in the media. 

Let's wait and see how this unfolds. 

Truly sorry for Mrs. Jones' loss.  

Thankfully, I don't know what any of those #'s mean. 😅

Have they offered Chef's Table on your sailing? 

I am on the Millennium in July.  I only saw it available on disembarkation day, briefly - and then I guess it sold out.  

Will you be doing Le Petit Chef? 

I am still debating. 

I am traveling with my family of 12. 

Not sure if I want to invest here. 

I have previously done Qsine. (DH wasn't thrilled)

Thank you, DaKahuna!  🛳enJOY your day! 

41 minutes ago, Boo's Mom said:

$524 for premium wifi? 

Dang - does it come with a little tech guy? In a tuxedo? 

I just [used my brain] and realized you were on a 16 night cruise. lol  🍷

A plant on your balcony?! 

I haven't seen that before. 🌵

$524 for premium wifi? 

Dang - does it come with a little tech guy? In a tuxedo? 

14 minutes ago, gottagoacruzn said:

Hey guys, now that the Alaska cruise season is about to start, is anybody gettin anxious bout gettin ready to get up there & gettin on their ships? I am, been wonderin what shore excursions to take, or just wander around the ports, finding things not seen or done before. Mean that within reason, or course.

Yes! - always excited for an Alaska cruise! 

Have you looked at a private fishing charter.  

So much fun.  And you don't have to be a seasoned fisherman. 

Ship your catch home - makes great souvenirs! 

🛳enJOY

14 hours ago, mrgabriel said:

 

Some people report that there is an entry in the computer indicating that you've checked in to a dining establishment.

 

But ... why? 

....tip distribution. 

On 4/12/2023 at 7:10 AM, cruisegirlppp said:

You can ask your Concierge to have a cheese plate instead of the usual afternoon canapés; if you request crackers they will most likely be saltines. After a few days of that you can ask him to cancel the whole thing!

LoL - thank you for the morning laugh.  #truth

🛳enJOY

1 hour ago, DaKahuna said:

@trinitygirl  yes.  Log into your account on Celebrity Cruises Web site. 

 

Click on your name in the upper right hand corner and select "Manage Reservation" 

Scroll down on the page that comes up and select Delivery Aboard and in that graphic select "Learn More"

 

in the low right as you scroll down the page you should see this:

 

 If you select View Onboard Credit It takes you to this page... 

 

 

Unfortunately it looks like you have to make multiple purchases to get anything substantial added to your account. 

 

Sorry, I've never tried to do this but that's what I found out. 

 

 

I made a few of these purchases recently. 

If you bought 8 of the $25 credits (for example) - it will show up as $200.00. 

ie:  not 8 separate 25s.

40 minutes ago, mfs2k said:

My wife and I are talking about a Mediterranean cruise next June to celebrate our 25th anniversary.  I've been to Europe a few times in my life and my wife never has been there. A 10 night Celebrity Ascent cruise from Barcelona to France and Italy ending in Rome would cost us about $6500 for the cruise (all included fare).  This doesn't include flights from NYC, pre and post stay accomodations, insurance and cost of excursions. I figure the total cost of the vacation would be about $15,000 which is double what we would normally spend on a 7-10 night vacation.

 

I'm wondering if this is a good way to see Mediterranean ports and get a feel for Europe.  We've sailed on Celebrity twice (Equinox Aqua and Beyond SS) and am happy with the Celebrity experience.  I have no idea how much it would cost to travel to Europe.  I imagine we could do it for a lot less and travel on a budget, but that would be an entirely different experience and we wouldnt see nearly as many places. Is one day in each port on a Celebrity Med cruise a good way to experience Europe or is it better to fly to a city and explore on our own? Would we really save a lot of money?

 

 

I think a cruise is an excellent way to get a sampling of Europe.  Waking up in a different country every morning, not having to unpack in different hotel rooms, etc. 

If there is a country that you especially like, you can then return in the future for a land based vacation. 

We did a 14 night Europe cruise years ago with my two school aged children.  We still talk about that trip. 

Be sure to arrive at the debarkation port at least 2 days early.  It's important to be able to rest and let your body adjust to the time change.  Being exhausted is not a fun way to start a vacation. 

🛳enJOY

1 hour ago, MeganGC1983 said:

And then he stopped cooking to do some sort of craft project.  😳 I’m sure it’s strictly medicinal. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oh my!! 🤣

Too funny. 

39 minutes ago, Cruisenewbie20181 said:

My wife and I are 67 we have only been on 3 cruises a RCL 2003, NCL 2018, and Celebrity 2022. We are now in a position to cruise more often. On a cruise we like being at the pool enjoying adult beverages, participating in the various activities on the ship, like to gamble, and take in the shows. As far as dining we run the gamut from buffet to specialty dining. I would appreciate your opinions on the following.

 

Should we stick with one cruise line to establish loyalty or just choose based on what interests us at the time?

 

 Is it worth saving a couple hundred dollars and choosing a gaurantee? When do you find out what room you’ve been assigned? Can you bid on an upgrade?

 

We are deciding between Celebrity Equinox and Caribbean Princess for our next cruise in October 2023 embarking out of Fort Lauderdale. We live in Port Charlotte Fl. Based on the time of year I’m guessing that fellow passengers will trend on the older age group like us. Yes or No?

 

Equinox or Caribbean for food, ambiance, service, cleanliness? Also what is Princesses smoking policy? We are non- smokers. Not begrudging smokers as they pay the same cruise fare as us. But as part of our decision making process we will choose between cruise lines based on which is better for non smokers. Read about Princesses policy but it seemed rather convoluted. Anyone with firsthand knowledge?

 

Lastly compare Equinox with Celebrity Constellation. We found the Constellation lacking in vibrancy, decor, and color. 
 

Thank you. I appreciate your time and replies.

 

 

Background:  I have cruised many times in the last 21 years. 

Celebrity, Princess, RCI and Carnival, with the majority of my cruises on Celebrity and RCI. 

My recommendation to you would be:  Celebrity or RCI

I am Diamond Plus on RCI and Elite on Celebrity. 

The benefits of the loyalty points really are nice, especially if you aren't already cruising in a suite. 

In the same way that I like to choose my airline seat (not a fan of Southwest Airlines), I like to choose my cruise cabin. 

I prefer to pay upfront for the exact cabin I want. 

But, for financial reasons - the guarantee route could be a good option. 

RCI:  smoking inside permitted - only in designated areas of the Casino. (which means the entire Casino smells like smoke and often you have to walk through the Casino as you are walking to another location on the ship)

Celebrity:  no smoking inside: [no smoking in the Casino] ✔︎

I hope this helps a little. 

Congrats on being in a new season of life where you can cruise more often! 

🛳enJOY

The Celebrity website identifies the Spa Café Fresh Juices as being included in the Premium Drink Package. 

The Premium Package doesn't mention the $6.00 smoothies in the Spa Cafe. 

No mention in the Classic Package either. 

The Zero Proof Package does mention:  frozen smoothies 

What has been your experience? 

6 hours ago, madre2 said:

Being used to Caribbean cruises, I am finding it hard to pack for this Alaskan cruise.  It isn’t until June, but I’m starting to make my lists now.   I know it will be cold out on deck, especially while in Glacier National Park.  But what is the temperature like inside the ship and cabin?  Will we want warmer long sleeves and pants?  And warmer pjs in the cabin?  Any packing advice would be most appreciated.  I learn so much on these boards.  

It's just like if you were in a hotel. 

Inside is always very comfortable. 

But.... (there's always a but)

Sometimes you are cruising in Alaska and you are walking around inside the ship and comfortable and you happen upon an outside deck and it's VERY CHILLY.  (or rainy) 

🛳enJOY

On 2/2/2023 at 6:57 AM, BostonBoy2 said:

We are first-time cruisers, and will be going on Holland America's NIEUW STATENDAM Caribbean 7 day "Tropical" cruise in February. The itinerary is Nassau, Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Half Moon Cay, with two days at sea. The cruise departs from and returns to Ft. Lauderdale.

 

I'm quite susceptible to sea sickness, and I'm wondering - might we encounter rough seas on this trip? If so, what is the best sea sickness preventative? A Scopolamine transdermal patch? Something else?

 

Thanks in advance.

Several years ago I was talking to the staff in the medical center onboard a cruise ship. 

The doctor had recently returned from a medical conference for cruise ship doctors. 

A discussion at the conference was:  what is better for sea sickness (medicated patches/prescription meds) or non prescription meds. 

Overall the doctors concurred that although the prescription route worked, the patients felt like crap due to the side effects of the medicine.  Hence: defeating the purpose (they were not enjoying their cruise) 

Seasickness can happen to anyone at any time while on water. 

Even those who have never gotten seasickness before can suddenly - get sick.  

So, yes - be prepared. 

Yes - take along a nice supply of non prescription meds. 

Test them at home and make sure you don't get any type of negative reaction. 

And then, don't worry! 

If you feel it coming on - take some meds.  And stop drinking at that point.  Alcohol makes the situation worse. 

🛳enJOY 

13 hours ago, Aubriee01 said:

Newbie cruisers with a few questions.  Sailing Carnival, out of Galveston, January '24 on a 14 day Panama cruise.  Seven shore days. Plan to snorkel, zipline, climb waterfalls, explore Mayan ruins, have a beach day, and do some sightseeing both on land and by boat.

 

1.  Booked a balcony Cove room.  Good choice?

2.  Will be driving  to the port from east Texas (about a 4 1/2 hour drive).  Would you just drive it that morning  or would it be better to go down the day before and spend the night in a hotel and go to the port the next morning?  

3.  How do you pack for a 14 day cruise?  Would like to pack light, but want to have everything we need. With the activities we are doing, what would you pack?

4. How many bags for tours?  I was thinking a very small backpack for exploring and sightseeing, then a beach tote to use as a carryon for embarkation, to use around the pool, and for snorkeling/beach days (using just the small backpack all other days)?

5.  I'm a diabetic. My blood sugar drops at the most inconvenient times, no matter what I do to prepare.  I plan to carry some prepackaged snacks.  Would it be a problem to quietly eat them during a tour?  I would hate to have my snack in front of some hungry kid. lol  How to handle the situation?

6.  Anyone familiar with the Galveston port?  My son will be off both the day we embark and the day we come home and has said he would drop us off and pick us up.  Where would he need to park long enough to do so?

 

I would recommend arriving in Galveston 1 night prior to the cruise. 

A myriad of things can happen as you are en route to Galveston and starting off your cruise with stress is no fun at all. 

Pack for one week.  Budget funds so that you can send clothes out to be cleaned while onboard the ship. 

Don't ever hesitate to eat whatever you need to and whenever you need to with your diabetic condition. 

The Galveston port (and every port) is very busy and chaotic. 

Dropoff:  Meet up for breakfast and visit, and then have him drop you off at the ship. 

Pickup:  you are texting him as you are disembarking the ship.  He drives up and picks you up.

Similar to a 'cell phone lot' experience at an airport. 

🛳enJOY 

Just now, zitsky said:

Refrain from being judgmental?  Well that means not criticizing other people’s way of dress which includes wearing shorts.  😳

It means if you see a dress code violation you don't act like an idiot. 

On 3/22/2023 at 7:38 PM, migdet71 said:

First time Celebrity cruisers, and we're wondering if the "Chic" attire applies to the entire ship or just MDR/specialty dining and shows.  We don't eat in the MDR, so on "Chic" nights are we going to get the stink eye for wandering the ship in nice shorts, sandals and camp shirts?  I've scoured the web site and it's not really clear on the subject.  Thanks in advance

I have sat in the theater on a "formal" (or Chic) night (dressed formal) and have had teens sitting next to us in shorts.  It certainly does affect the ambiance. 

On that same note, I have also been moving about the ship late in the evening dressed casually (already changed from the Chic look) and just didn't feel comfortable going into a lounge, etc - where everyone was still very dressed for the evening. 

The ship has guidelines. 

They are good guidelines. 

I don't believe the ship will enforce anything outside of the MDR. 

I think we, the passengers, just have to be thoughtful and considerate at all times, and hope that others are also being considerate.  And all refraining on being judgmental. 

🛳enJOY

3 hours ago, Ken the cruiser said:

 docked for 3 days in New Orleans during Mardi Gras.

 

...super interesting itinerary. 

🛳enJOY

1 hour ago, HWC_Mom said:

We're doing the Italian itinerary on the Constellation in June and hope to just take carry on luggage (partly because our luggage got lost in our way to a previous Med cruise and arrived as we were leaving the hotel in Rome to get to the ship).  My husband thinks he doesn't need a jacket... I think he'll feel out of place without one.  So do I need to stuff jackets for hubs and my son?  

I feel like the "trend" right now is that men wear slacks and a jacket (with/without a tie) in lieu of a full suit.  It looks GREAT and is a little more relaxed and comfortable. 

Easier to mix and match too. 

A jacket with a polo is super nice too. 

Very versatile. 

You can use that same polo 3 times on the same cruise. 

🛳enJOY

5 hours ago, peachcreamsicle said:

Last year, my in-laws celebrated their 50 year anniversary.  At the time, my husband and sister-in-law decided that in lieu of getting an anniversary gift, they’d treat their parents to a family cruise.  This seemed like a great idea at the time.  My in-laws don’t spend much on themselves, and treating them to a cruise where the whole family can spend quality time together seemed like a no-brainer.  

 

Fast forward to nearly a year later, and my husband and SIL have yet to book this family vacation.  We’ve tried on a few occasions, only to run into scheduling conflicts and conflicting ideas of what would constitute an enjoyable cruise.  My husband and I are recently married and do not have kids yet.  As a result, we can take vacations anytime, often capitalizing on off-season discounts.  My SIL and her husband have two teenagers (17 and 16), and need to plan around their kids’ school and activity schedules.  Any cruise they book must take place during summer, Christmas or spring break and have an abundance of waterslides and ziplines to keep the teens entertained.  As a result, these cruises tend to be far more expensive and packed with children. 

 

On her most recent cruise, my SIL spent $12k on a weeklong Carnival cruise over March Break (inside cabins).  My husband and I just got back from a Celebrity California coast cruise (balcony cabin) for under $2k for both of us. I’ve tried so many times, but I just can’t justify paying so much to take my 80 year old in-laws on a loud / obnoxious booze cruise.  
 

Does anyone have suggestions for a cruiseline / itinerary that would appeal to my in-laws, my SILs family and not be exorbitantly expensive? Please help! 

It's a lot of work - I know. 

I am traveling with a family of 12 this summer. 

I would start by asking your SIL to give you two date options. 

That's the biggest hurdle.

Once you have two different week options, then find two great cruises. 

Go back to her with two cruise options. 

my recommendation:  1 in the Caribbean; 1 in Alaska 

If you put too much info in front of her, she is going to be overwhelmed. 

I probably would sway you towards RCI. 

And one of their newer ships.

The whistles and bells are very exciting for the teens. 

The grandparents will just enjoy being with the entire family. 

But, no Carnival.  Not this trip.  

Spring break and holiday cruises are the most expensive. 

I would settle on the summer. 

Tell her that. 

Tell her the two date options need to be in the summer months. 

I hope this helps. 

Creating memories is so important.

🛳enJOY 

2 hours ago, brazcons said:

We are traveling with our two kids on Beyond this summer.  We’ve booked a Sky Suite but can’t find a picture of the suite configured for sleeping four using the sofa/trundle.  Does anyone have a picture or video of that?

There are several videos on YouTube touring the Sky Suite on the Beyond.  The videos don't acknowledge the trundle bed, but you can certainly see the sofa in the video. 

There are a few different Sky Suites on the Beyond, based on where the suite is located on the ship.  And the different Sky Suites seem to have the room configured slightly differently.  But, the sofa/trundle is always between the bed and the balcony. 

The trundle bed will be pulled out every evening (for sleeping) and will be put away (back to the regular sofa) in the morning when they make up your room. 

🛳enJOY

Looking for information on the Junior Ranger Activity Center in Skagway. 

Google maps isn't picking it up. 

I did see that the Activity Center was closed for the 2022 season. 

On 3/12/2023 at 1:32 PM, stacied68 said:

We are trying to decide on an independent whale watching tour.   We are currently looking at Harv and Marv's or Juneau Tours?   Has anyone had experience with either that could provide insight to help us decide?  Any questions I need to ask myself to help with the decision?  

 

Thanks

Stacie 

I have done the tour with Harv and Marv's at least twice. 

It is a high quality tour. 

VERY small group. 

Well organized process of getting you to the boat and the return to the cruise ship. 

If I were looking to whale watch again in Juneau, I would certainly be booking with them again. 

🛳enJOY