AtlFolks

Best thing to do is to look on the web for a Park and Cruise rate. All the hotels near the port offer this.

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Another question Alaska experts.

The TWT is an 8 hour bus ride - is that all day on the bus or with many stops along the way?

The NHT is 6 hours - same thing?

Princess has a lot of other tours and activities available - any recommendations?

We will be at the Denali Lodge a day and a half and maybe the Talkeetna Lodge another day.

Thanks CC pals!

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Also, each RCI ship has varying show times. Freedom has the main show at 7:30 and then again at 8:45. By eating MT around 6pm as someone else mentioned, you would have time to make it to the 7:30 show, which is really for MDR second seating guests.

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MDR dining is considered a more formal dinner and you can't really rush unless you ask your server to skip a course. If there is something specific you want to do that conflicts with a dinner reservation, you can always opt to eat in the buffet called Windjammer.

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My Time for two is usually never a problem. We are planners so reserve early and you will pretty much be guaranteed your time and with the same waiter for your whole cruise. Without reservations, you will wait 10 minutes +/-, and longer on sea days.

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All comments pretty spot on. I'd go for a higher deck so you can open your curtains without Promenade walkers peering in as they stroll.

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Bring your own nalgene water bottle and fill up at Cafe Promenade, and also at the Pool Bar. Coffee is available at Cafe Promenade 24 hours a day, and Starbucks espresso drinks as well for regular price.

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One more quick comment, you will want to check conditions before getting in the water. If it's really windy, or there is a strong current, novice snorkelers can get tired and possibly hurt on rocky shores. If you snorkel at Eden Rock, Sunset House, or any spot with a shop, the folks at the desk can advise you on conditions. I'd say conditions will be excellent most of the time. Enjoy!

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Hey folks, everyone calm down. Oasis won't enforce their suggested attire, Crystal will. If you want to be true to the plan, follow the code, if you want to do your own thing, do so. Nobody will change their habits or how they raise their kids by a post by me or anyone else on Cruise Critic. Newcomers to cruising want information on norms and that's what we experienced folks should provide. Don't be contrary just for the sake of it. We love to cruise - relax, have fun, and discuss.

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Country Inn is reasonably priced, has a nice pool for swimming the afternoon before your cruise, and a decent breakfast. They have a park and cruise package that includes shuttle transportation to/from port.

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Best place is Eden Rock on Grand Cayman. Easy shore dive and they have all gear you need. It's a 5 minute walk from the port. They also have lockers to rent and light snacks for sale.

Cozumel snorkeling can be done right off the port at the Hotel El Cid, just jump in and explore. Better snorkeling excursions can be had by booking an excursion either via RCI or using an outfit with good ratings on Trip Advisor.

Non-divers should get 30 minutes of instruction on the proper way to snorkel, which will really enhance to experience.

Costa Maya has beautiful waters. Snorkeling might be able to be done off the beach, which is a 6-8 minute taxi ride from port, or a 15-20 minute walk.

Freedom has dive instructors on board who sell snorkel gear and I think have a snorkel class in the morning on the first sea day.

Have fun!

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Antigua has some nice snorkeling spots. It's been a while since I've been, so my advice is more mechanical. Bring your own snorkel gear if you can - better quality, means you will enjoy the experience more. If there are newbies who plan to snorkel, a quick how-to session from a friend or instructor would be a plus. Have fun!

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All merchants near cruise ports accept US dollars. Bring different denominations and they will do the math for you - I've never been ripped-off. Merchants who take plastic will charge in pesos and your credit card company will convert it for you for free.

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On RCI, nobody will be refused dining room service unless wearing a bathing suit. That said, most folks dress-up fancy on formal night (on 6-8 day cruises you will have two of them). On all other nights, men wear slacks or jeans and a shirt with a collar and women wear weather-appropriate dresses or slacks and blouse. It's rather inappropriate to wear shorts and a tee shirt to dinner if you are older than 12, but those who do tend to attract some undesirable glances. Have fun on your cruise!

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Absolutely wonderful info and recommendations! Based on all of your comments we have selected the 11-day Cruisetour, with two days in Denali.

Any must-do on board experiences, or Alaska tours you've loved?

Also, best to fly in to Vancouver, or fly to Seattle and drive?

This is getting exciting!

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Excellent tips from all, and every comment has valuable data.

Two nights in Denali it shall be based upon everyone's comments.

Interesting comments on the Island, post refurb. RCI had issues like this too including taking away a great bar on Oasis for a suite guest only restaurant.

We understand Princess has a co-marketing/branding program with National Geographic, so we may get some better info on Alaska during our cruise, and we have heard about the better excursions.

Cherylandtk, you have an interesting question. Ill say that we enjoy the Cafe Promenade on Oasis and Freedom class ships - great place to get coffee, tea, and a snack, and relax inside between activities. Recall a similar spot on our other only Princess cruise.

Sea Hag, why not Tundra Wilderness?

Thanks again cruisers - this is very exciting!

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Greetings -

We are planning our first Alaska cruise for Aug 2017. We are loyal Royals, but selecting Princess to give us the Alaska experience.

Is there any real difference in the ship we select for the cruise portion (Coral, Island, or Star)?

Should we stay two nights at the Denali Lodge or will one suffice for the experience?

Any other tips are welcome.

Thank You!

Thank you for your pictures and your stories. Planning to take Radiance to Alaska in Aug 2017. Your blog was good prep.

As an Emerald RCI cruiser, I have no issue with that. If you get caught abusing the program, they might revoke your promotion. I've never seen it myself though. I enjoy my vacation and let others enjoy theirs as long as we all teat each other with courtesy.

Seems like the BOGO is their standard deal. Would have an interest in seeking out a TA that offers the best bonuses like OBC, PPG, or specialty dining.

The "hump" is that area around mid-ship that gives you an extended view forward and aft - it's really a nice feature. The rooms are indeed slightly larger, along with the balcony. The downside is that it's a high traffic area due to its location by the stairs and elevators.

Anyone noticed any 2016 Wave Season deals? At first glance it all looks about the same to me - no meaningful sales or bonuses.

@PopFla - What's the name of that drink?

Not looking for the strongest or the most outrageous, but what's really tasty and gets you feeling like vacation is here? Also, where is the best place to enjoy this drink?

That's $280 round trip for a family of four. Drive to the port and park for $15/day. It's a short drive.