Forced Overnight

[Abe]

I posted the following message under the Holland America message boards but maybe this is the more correct place to post:

 

I apologize if this question has been answered before but I searched and couldn't find a definitive answer.

 

I booked a 2009 transatlantic cruise including air with Holland America. I asked for Airplus deviation because we're staying in Rome 2 extra days. Because we're flying from the west coast to the east coast (PHX - FLL) we were informed by HAL that we are required to have a forced overnight. That's fine - but I would prefer to book my own hotel and make my own transfer arrangements.

 

I was told by my TA that if I use HAL cruise air - I HAVE to use their pre-cruise hotel package. I called HAL myself and a rep said yes - I have to purchase their hotel package. I called a second time to ask a question about air deviation and the rep said if I'm requesting Airplus deviation - I did not have to use their pre-cruise hotel package. I'm being charged $478.00 for 1 night for 2 people including transfers. That seems pretty unreasonable for Fort Lauderdale.

 

Does anyone know for sure if forced overnight hotel packages MUST be purchased through HAL if you use their air package with Airplus deviation?

 

The airfare through HAL was so much cheaper than through the airlines directly but the extra $478 pre-cruise package almost makes it not worth it.

 

Thank you for any help you can provide.