Tendering

[natvtxn]

We will be in Cozumel on 4/10 on Ecstacy. When I was there in October 2005 (5 days before Wilma visited) of course the pier was there. This is only my second cruise and therefore I've never experienced tendering in. We do not have an excursion planned as we plan to just go to the beach and shop for a bit. What I would like to know is what is tendering in like? What exactly happens. Any hints or tips on making it as smooth as possible. Thanks for all your help!

[LHP]

Think of it as adding another "cruise experience" to your belt!!!

 

Usually the seas are fine and tendering is not a bad experience. For less stress, you are wise not to do a "planned" excursion for that day. This way you can wait for the lines to clear out, before heading to shore and hopefully come back just before the long lines form to get back on the ship.

 

A tender is just a wide boat with seats and a top. Some of them are 2 story.

You "walk the plank" and while there may be some wave action....we have never had a problem getting onto or off of a tender.

 

If you have some medical condition that might make it more difficult, simply tell the attendants as you start to board. Take your time and make sure you have a good hold (and they have a good hold on you).

 

I haven't done the run into Cozumel in years (since all of our latest visits has been blessed with the pier) but years ago I don't remember it being a particularly long ride. If you are prone to seasickness, I would pop a Bonine.

 

Hope this helps. Have a great time. I can't wait to visit with Tom at Paradise Beach in October!!

[cardinalfan]

I was somewhat skeptical about the tendering but it actually was painless. The boats are big. In Cozumel it was a piece of cake. We wanted to return to the Conquest about 12:30. We were certain we would have to wait until the boat was totally full--not true. There were continuous trips back and forth. It won't bother you at all.