Princess Secrets they Don't Tell You - 2013 version

[Kentchikan]

Crew..They do get time off. Just not

every port. But since they do the same

route most cruises(in that season) They

usually able to see every port.

They don't have as many hours off but

some go to Walmart for supplys, phone calls,

see some of the ports. beach time or just sleep.

 

Buffet..As Kentskie just act like a dinning room.

Take a salad, meat or fish, veggie, potato or pasta

Then dessert. Like a regular dinner.

Don't need to eat everything. My opinion only but

not always followed. Like two desserts. LOL

 

And sometimes they choose not to get off but to sleep.

I used to wonder why Walmart in these wonderful exotic countries but then I realized if you need the basics that's where you'd go. A lot of them buy presents for family as well.

Edited July 24, 2013 by Kentskie

[Doglovertoo]

That's right about the wine, on our last Princess cruise we had a bottle of wine with our name on it at all the bars we frequented. Sounds like we are alchos but it was a lot cheaper to do this. We also bought a bottle of wine each when we were ashore to drink in our room.

 

 

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Do they allow you to bring a bottle back on the ship or did you have to "smuggle" it back on. My husband and I were just talking about this. We like to have some wine in our room, but weren't sure how difficult it is to get on the ship. Thanks.

[paul929207]

Empty bottles are fine. :)

 

Under the new wine policy, you can bring unlimited bottles and they will charge $15 corkage on all bottles except two at embarkation.

 

Alcohol and beer - Not allowed.

[Kentchikan]

Empty bottles are fine. :)

 

Under the new wine policy, you can bring unlimited bottles and they will charge $15 corkage on all bottles except two at embarkation.

 

Alcohol and beer - Not allowed.

 

Good for wine drinkers not so hot for people who drink other stuff. Back in the day there were no restrictions but I guess they have to 'plug the holes' so that they can make more money. I was on one ship where our Meet and Greet group had a farewell party and everyone brought their left over drinks. One person had smuggled vodka aboard in a water bottle and one guest thought that it was water and poured some in a glass and took a big swig. Surprise!

Edited July 25, 2013 by Kentskie

[las313]

Funny.

[Kentchikan]

This isn't just a Princess secret but it's something that has saved us money and increased our joy ashore. When we are in Alaska we rent cars in port. We can get out of town and go to places where tourists rarely go as well as go to the touristy places but at our own pace. We have met some wonderful people and had some incredible experiences that we wouldn't have had on tours. On our last cruise, for example, the rental car lady in Ketchikan told us about this place to have lunch that was way out of town along a beautiful highway and by a boat harbor. If you just drove up to it you probably wouldn't stop. It's a small building with a covered patio. For lunch we had freshly caught Halibut fish and chips and incredible pies. But it's not some place we would have gotten to on a tour. I usually call rental companies in Alaska and generally pay $60-$75 for the day but it's cheaper than tours and way more fun.

We do the same thing in Hawaii. It's easier to book in Hawaii as there are websites where you can book all the islands at once. You can also call the Hawaiian places and they'll work with you. I call the companies directly in Alaska and try to use local companies. That's also where I get the great tips about where locals eat and things to see that most tourists don't get to view. Sometimes the places are really small with just a few cars but I've found them to be cheaper than the majors.

We told our neighbors about it and they booked a car in Juneau and were very glad they did and are now hooked on the rental car concept too.

I have a friend who's a miniaturist who's taking a coastal this fall with her mini group. They're going to miniature stores at every stop and renting cars to get there.

An alternative to tours to consider. They come and get you at the dock and take you back. In Ketchikan this time the rental company closed before the ship sailed so they said park the car by the dock, put the keys under the seat, and lock the car. I can't imagine that happening in CA.

Edited July 25, 2013 by Kentskie

[Ga Peach]

This isn't just a Princess secret but it's something that has saved us money and increased our joy ashore. When we are in Alaska we rent cars in port. We can get out of town and go to places where tourists rarely go as well as go to the touristy places but at our own pace. We have met some wonderful people and had some incredible experiences that we wouldn't have had on tours. On our last cruise, for example, the rental car lady in Ketchikan told us about this place to have lunch that was way out of town along a beautiful highway and by a boat harbor. If you just drove up to it you probably wouldn't stop. It's a small building with a covered patio. For lunch we had freshly caught Halibut fish and chips and incredible pies. But it's not some place we would have gotten to on a tour. I usually call rental companies in Alaska and generally pay $60-$75 for the day but it's cheaper than tours and way more fun.

We do the same thing in Hawaii. It's easier to book in Hawaii as there are websites where you can book all the islands at once. You can also call the Hawaiian places and they'll work with you. I call the companies directly in Alaska and try to use local companies. That's also where I get the great tips about where locals eat and things to see that most tourists don't get to view. Sometimes the places are really small with just a few cars but I've found them to be cheaper than the majors.

We told our neighbors about it and they booked a car in Juneau and were very glad they did and are now hooked on the rental car concept too.

I have a friend who's a miniaturist who's taking a coastal this fall with her mini group. They're going to miniature stores at every stop and renting cars to get there.

An alternative to tours to consider. They come and get you at the dock and take you back. In Ketchikan this time the rental company closed before the ship sailed so they said park the car by the dock, put the keys under the seat, and lock the car. I can't imagine that happening in CA.

 

We're planning an Alaska trip next summer and are intrigued with your idea. How did you find the local car rental places? Do you still have contact info for the company in Ketchikan and would you share it with us?

 

Thanks

[Kentchikan]

We're planning an Alaska trip next summer and are intrigued with your idea. How did you find the local car rental places? Do you still have contact info for the company in Ketchikan and would you share it with us?

 

Thanks

 

Sure thing. I find the local car places by doing a Google search online. I have found the local places to be cheaper often quite a bit. In Ketchikan we have for years rented our cars at Alaska Car Rental. The restaurant we ate at is the Dockside Galley in Knudson Cove. We also drove to Saxman which is a totem park. The debate goes on over which is better Saxman or Totem Bight. I prefer Saxman as it is still a native village and because I went there first when I was 14. Of course with your own car you can do both and decide for yourself. Totem Bight is on the way to the restaurant. Saxman is the other way and there are many interesting things to explore along the way. There were five ships in when we were in Ketchikan so we were able to get away and when we got back the town had calmed down and was not crowded. Don't miss Ketchicandies candy store they make all of their own. My favorite is their mint patties. I hope this helps.

Edited July 25, 2013 by Kentskie

[Ga Peach]

Sure thing. I find the local car places by doing a Google search online. I have found the local places to be cheaper often quite a bit. In Ketchikan we have for years rented our cars at Alaska Car Rental. The restaurant we ate at is the Dockside Galley in Knudson Cove. We also drove to Saxman which is a totem park. The debate goes on over which is better Saxman or Totem Bight. I prefer Saxman as it is still a native village and because I went there first when I was 14. Of course with your own car you can do both and decide for yourself. Totem Bight is on the way to the restaurant. Saxman is the other way and there are many interesting things to explore along the way. There were five ships in when we were in Ketchikan so we were able to get away and when we got back the town had calmed down and was not crowded. Don't miss Ketchicandies candy store they make all of their own. My favorite is their mint patties. I hope this helps.

 

Great info..thanks. We've been to Alaska once several years ago and plan to take one of the Princess trips next June or July. The Grand Princess seems to offer the itinerary that best suits us. Any other words of wisdom on Alaska?

Ann

[vent1020]

I appreciate this thread, but the problem is, it is about 5% "Princess secrets they don't tell you..." and 95% discussion about those secrets. :p

[rdsqrl]

I appreciate this thread, but the problem is, it is about 5% "Princess secrets they don't tell you..." and 95% discussion about those secrets. :p

You know the old saying: if you're not part of the solution . . .

[vent1020]

You know the old saying: if you're not part of the solution . . .

 

LOL. I thought about that when I posted. I am now adding to the very problem I am posting about. ;)

[paul929207]

LOL. I thought about that when I posted. I am now adding to the very problem I am posting about. ;)

Well, they say that the first step is to admit you have a problem. You have done that. :)

[Deely]

Empty bottles are fine. :)

 

Under the new wine policy, you can bring unlimited bottles and they will charge $15 corkage on all bottles except two at embarkation.

 

Alcohol and beer - Not allowed.

 

 

we like to buy local beers/liquers for gifts when we visit places so what would happen to it? Is there any way we can 'declare' it and get it returned to us at the end of the crusie? We are on a Med cruise if that makes any difference.

[paul929207]

I believe they will collect unopened bottles at the gangway and return them at the end of the cruise. Open liquor bottles are usually discarded

[branbecca]

Please tell me what OBC means.

[boeckli]

Please tell me what OBC means.

On Board Credit

[Kentchikan]

On Board Credit

 

And wonderful to get :D

[Deely]

I believe they will collect unopened bottles at the gangway and return them at the end of the cruise. Open liquor bottles are usually discarded

 

Thank you.

[jennyg2610]

Do they allow you to bring a bottle back on the ship or did you have to "smuggle" it back on. My husband and I were just talking about this. We like to have some wine in our room, but weren't sure how difficult it is to get on the ship. Thanks.

 

We did not smuggle it on, just had it in our backpack that went through X-ray. No problems. We will do it when we cruise in October, the worse that can happen is they make you pay $15 corkage, still probably cheaper than the ship anyway.

 

 

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[paul929207]

Please tell me what OBC means.

OBC is an On Board Credit. It reduces the amount you owe on the ship. Offsets so of your expenses like soda and other beverages, tips, excursions, etc.

[Kentchikan]

Great info..thanks. We've been to Alaska once several years ago and plan to take one of the Princess trips next June or July. The Grand Princess seems to offer the itinerary that best suits us. Any other words of wisdom on Alaska?

Ann

Glad to share insights and ideas. Any particular ports?

[azippy]

Always something interesting on the cc boards

 

I have never seen them check the bottle of water you carry back on. They expect you to have water with you. Good thing as I have been known to buy a pint of gin and carry it back in that water bottle !!!!

 

At embarkation they check the water thoroughly - even the case you might drag on -- I brought a 12 pack - the kind sealed in plastic wrap and was pulled over for a check - the fellow shook the entire package and looked at the bubbles - do not know what kind of bubble liquor might produce - I asked & he smiled ~~ now there is a Princess secret !!!

 

I have seen ppl take a purchased bottle of wine from the DR - with a bit left in it and return the next night with a full bottle - they refilled it with the item they brought on board !! This was prior to the enforcement of the 1 bottle pp limit so there was a supply on hand !! lol

 

The rule does say at embarkation I believe, but here again I have seen ppl bring wine on at ports -- I guess before you get off ask the staff at the gangway - they are the gatekeepers !!

 

I bring on my 2 allowed and send myself a gift of a bottle if I think ahead - sometimes it is a few dollars cheaper that way and the gratuity is included.

 

I have been on ships where every night is happy hour with $4.00 drinks ( not listed on the daily patter) and on sailings where there are no happy hours to be found and others where it was a true happy hour

Ask ~ if a specific bar is doing something - they might tell you. Of course sending you to another bar means no tips for them -

 

azippy

[Kentchikan]

Always something interesting on the cc boards

At embarkation they check the water thoroughly - even the case you might drag on -- I brought a 12 pack - the kind sealed in plastic wrap and was pulled over for a check - the fellow shook the entire package and looked at the bubbles - do not know what kind of bubble liquor might produce - I asked & he smiled ~~ now there is a Princess secret !!!

That happened on a ship we were on except they had to open a bottle. The people said that it was sealed and you could hear it pop open but they still had to open it. Come to think of it in "Slumdog Millionaire" they put drops of glue on the caps of bottles they filled with regular water and sold them so I suppose it's possible.

I remember in the days when flying back to the US if you were over the legal limit for alcohol they would take one and pour it out in front of you so you wouldn't think they were saving it for their Christmas party. As if anyone would think that. Well actually I might. :rolleyes:

Edited July 28, 2013 by Kentskie

[Kentchikan]

azippy's tip about sending yourself wine as a bon voyage gift reminded me of another secret.

Since we have a Princess credit card and we want points we sent ourselves Casino Credit. We thought they'd put it on our cruise card to play with but they just gave us the money. Good way to get money and points.