Hokapontas

He packed one because of 'formal nights'... Wore it twice and didn't feel out of place. Wouldn't next time though on Hal, or ever on O.

We wear what we would wear out to a nice restaurant. No sequins or jacket. We just came back from our first HAL cruise, and my husband finally had to pack a jacket. Never had to in our 10 years cruising O. I don't wear heels, but don't wear jeans to dinner, either. Nor does anyone wear expedition gear and runners to dinner, that I have seen. IMHO.

I guess, if it is prearranged.

Including time it takes to get to the airport, check in, passport control for an international flight, 4am might not work for you. It may make more sense to leave the ship when it arrives in Malta, and staying near the airport in a hotel for the night.

Thanks Nancy. Yes it's Sydney, White Bay terminal. Other cruises we have been on seem to muster about two hrs before leaving. Being on at 3 or four might be the ticket then.

Hi, this is the first time we have embarked a ship leaving at 10pm. Usually we trundle up the the ship around 11, have lunch and set up in our room. This time I have time to have lunch with family on land (and maybe pack!) Check in said 12pm, but I reckon it would be fine to arrive at the ship in the late afternoon, even late evening. Is there any reason they wouldn't staff the check in area at those times?

Edited post. Thanks for the clarification everyone. It's so helpful! ☺️ Now for one more question: the HIA covers drinks, but what about when you eat in your room, where they are not covered? Can you pop to the nearest bar, buy a wine and take it back to your room?

Hi again, can I ask a question about water? I take it that the tap water is not drinkable on the ship. We have Have It All in two weeks time. It covers 'waters' - and unlimited quantities of 'zero proof' beverages (reading the FAQs). Can I get a gallon of distilled water somewhere on board, to drink overnight and refill my bottle etc? Or more than one Open Water to get me through and refill my reusable one? Also it is clear they don't want plastic water bottles on board, what about a reusable bottle, plastic exercise type one? Do I need to find a metal exercise bottle to carry around with me?

On another cruise line we go on, the laundry room is full of ppl ironing their clothing in order to eat dinner. Especially at the beginning of the cruise. It's a lovely, social place. We haven't sent laundry to the service since my husband's polo shirt was shrunk. I guess I am going to be looking for non crinkle things, and steaming the in the shower.

I seem to be finding this our right now, there is no chance of Ironing anything on the Noordam?? I always need to iron because of the suitcase and the clothes, you know. I have read somewhere there is a press service. How long does that take?

Hi! That brought up a question: is the Gala dinner (before 9 mins in) a 'formal' night, or a normal dinner in the gdr? I thought formal nights were on sea days, so am guessing my hubby needs a jacket with him for a normal dinner?

Yes, I meant this knowing some have trouble staying in their room, so don't tell anyone, and bounce around the ship from bathroom to bathroom.

I didn't, so it must mean I have any time dining. So why would someone need to hotfoot it to the MDR at the beginning of a cruise? Do some TAs not arrange it, or can't you do it online?

Egad!! I am new to Hal as well, cruising in a month. I have to make reservations to eat in the MDR???

I take it they isolate pax to stop them from using the public area conveniences, not washing their hands. Not the most effective, as it stops ppl from reporting, but has a good ring to it. If they threw in free medical, maybe it would be an encouragement? Or free rehydration drinks and immodium, if they stay in their room? Free online movies, crosswords or newspapers? Maybe other things. Suggestions?