scubagirl43

I am travelling from Canada to Copenhagen to catch the NCL Getaway transatlantic repositioning which sails at 4.pm. The second leg of my flight is from Dublin on Ryanair and is scheduled to arrive at CPH at 2pm. Yes, I know, I am a risk-taker. 
I am looking for advice from experienced travellers who think there might be a good chance the Getaway won’t leave without me.

15 minutes ago, scubagirl43 said:

Please let me know how you find the aft balcony. I am looking at booking the Dec. 11 Sky cruise.

 

much appreciated and have an awesome cruise!!

 

cindy

I reviewed the posts and saw the pictures you posted.  Looks good.  Are the balconies completely sheltered?  Any chance of sun at noon?

cindy

On 11/20/2021 at 2:04 PM, CruisinChandler said:

We’ve been on board now for a little more than 2 hours. Embarkation got a little backed up during security and when they checked our documents. It definitely helps to have your passport, Covid test results, and Covid vaccination proof out and ready to be checked. Other than that it was quick and we were soon on the ship to a round of applause from crew members. We first went to the Sanctuary to make a reservation. By the time we got there it was mostly booked. We only wanted to reserve a half day to try it out and luckily got the last morning availability on Thanksgiving. After that we went to our cabin, it’s our first time having an aft balcony! We watched our muster drill video and then went to check in at our muster station. 

 

On our way to the dining room for lunch we grabbed our first cruise drinks at Vines! We were very interested in the Winemaker’s Dinner that we read about here on Cruise Critic. We asked about it at guest services, but she didn’t know what we were talking about. Vines said to ask at the dining room. At first, the dining room said to call the reservations line. I said everyone keeps telling us something different. We were then directed to another crew member who took our information down and said we would get a call telling us when and where the Winemaker’s Dinner would be. Thankful that’s done, we sat down in the Estrella dining room and enjoyed our lunch. Now off to explore more of this beautiful ship!

Please let me know how you find the aft balcony. I am looking at booking the Dec. 11 Sky cruise.

much appreciated and have an awesome cruise!!

cindy

Hi. I’m Cindy from Toronto.  I’m not on this cruise but am thinking of going on the Dec. 4.11, 2021.

I am interested in knowing what the aft cabin is like…. Is there overhead cover? Is the balcony size the same as others in its category?  Is it too windy or too hot? And is there hot shower water? Someone once mentioned that the water line reached aft cabins last and hot water was very hard to come by. 
 

Cheers and have a great time!!

Hi Don,

I’m Cindy from Toronto.  I came across your post while looking for info on the Sky Princess. I am looking for a cruise getaway soon.  I don’t know if there is private messaging but I’d be interested in knowing what a good deal is for a New Years cruise. I’m travelling solo and the single supplements are a killer. That and the holiday time.  I was thinking if the Dec 11 2021 Sky Princess cruise too. There’s a hosted singles group that I’ve joined previously. This single sup is surprisingly good for that one. The ship must not be anywhere near to passenger capacity limits.  Anyway, if there’s anything you can help with, it would be appreciated.

cindy

Is anyone going on or interested in a Regent Seven Seas Splendor 7 night MIAMI return Dec. 14’20?

12 minutes ago, cruisebrotha06 said:

Glad to see that the new Virgin Voyages ships (Scarlet Lady) will have solo rooms - inside and ocean view. I am booked in an ocean view for my May 27, 2020 cruise. 

Mind telling us the price?

Does anyone go on Hosted Singles Cruises?

Have a lovely balcony on Celebrity Summit 8-day SAN Juan to New Jersey April 21. The ship isn’t filing up therefore the price is great right now in case anyone’s interested in joining.

I and a few from Toronto area and others from the states are going on the Dec 5 2015 Singles cruise with VTG out of SanJuan.

Anyone wanna join in?

April 25'15 NCL Getaway - Singles Group

Anyone going on tis sailing? There will be a 40s+singles group on board. I've joined the singles group. The cost of the cruise is much higher but the benefit of meeting good people, potential friends is worth it.

April 25'15 NCL Getaway - Singles Group

Anyone going on tis sailing? There will be a singles group on board. I've joined the singles group. The cost of the cruise is much higher but the benefit of meeting good people, potential friends is worth it.

I AM on the Dec 7 sailing right now and thought I'd share this with you. Sit tight and be prepared for a long read ...if you're interested in the reason for all the itinerary changes on the Silhouette that have been happening over the last several months....

If anyone has any comments, please feel free to message me personally. I wont be able to reply until around the 21st. my email address is in my signature.

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Anyone who has been trying to get to the bottom of why many of the itineraries on the Silhouette have been changed (reduced times in ports and elimination of ports) in the past several months.

When the to go people advised us three days prior to boarding that San Juan will be eliminated due to engine problems affecting the propulsion and thus the speed, I did some investigating - first online, then with Celebrity Corporate, then onboard with an officer (Director of Envirnomental....) and then directly with the captain.

Before I tell my story of ?? diluted corporate BS ?? (I lack the best description for my venture), I was or am not out to seek any sort of compensation. Mind you when I hear that there are engine problems and, after researching online, that Celebrity has known for many months, and that itineraries are being changed because of it AND that a dry dock is scheduled in January to address it.... and THIS WAS NOT DISCLOSED until three days prior to sailong, it gave me great cause for concern to the point that, if I dont get the nuts and bolts of the engine issue, I'm not risking my 'behind' potentially being stranded on a ship in the middle of the sea without A/C, electricity, etc. (as we all know has happened on other cruiseline's sailings). And I would want at least an opportunity or choice to change my sailing or get a refund before I get onboard, of course.

In as brief a summary as I can possibly try to give, here's the skinny:

1) My research online showed there had been ongoing propulsion problems that prevented the ship from reaching full speed capacity back as far back as July 2014 and that dry dock was scheduled in January 2015.

2) Two days before sailing I spent 1/2 a day on the phone with corporate Customer Relations, elevating to Resolutions Specialist who liased with his Manager, all of whom didnt know or claim to know anything about a propulsion OR engine problem but ultimately offered me an add'l $100 OBC or the opportunity to do another sailing by end of January 2015. My request was to receive a refund or be given a Future Cruise Credit as I wasnt able to get down to the issue of the engine problem. I didnt want to go on this cruise without understanding the reasons for all the itinerary changes that seemed to be getting progressively worse.

3) While onboard I came upon a lecture being given by an Officer who heads the environmental aspects of the cruiseline. He claimed to know NOTHING about any propulsion problems. I continually probed for more info and he just kept going back to the reason why our ship had to change itineraries once again (which was due to a medical emegency that took us back to Ft Lauderdale in the middle of the first sailing night and cost the ship a loss of 8 hours) 7 hours per the captain in his announcement earlier that day). [We were going to San Juan after all, and now no longer to St. Kitts.] I am writing this right know while in San Juan port. And in answer to why the port of San Juan was also missed in the previous sailing, he said 'bad weather'. This officer, Dimitris was his name, explained that the ship runs on one engine and there are two separate engine rooms with two engines in each for a total of four, plus two back-up generators. I felt comfortable at least knowing, as he had stated, that the Solstice class ships would never be stranded without electricity or did he say WOULD NEVER BE STRANDED period? I think it was the latter. But he said he absolutely was not aware of any issue relating the the ship not being able to reach it's highest speed capacity. BS!

4) Now for my discussion with the Captain for about 10-15 minutes after his talk at the Captains Club's previous Celebrity cruise guests' complimentary Cocktail Party. Explaining first off that I was out to seek the truth what with so many guests expressing hearing lies and 'hiding of the truth' from Celebrity personnel. I explained what I knew about my online research and about people on Roll Call Boards who had had itinerary changes on prior Silhouette sailings.

So I ask:

What's up with the engine problem? His reply 'There is no engine problem' But I say 3 days prior to sailing we were given notice by our Agent re (see above 2nd para of this post).

Ok, I say: What's up with the propulsion problem? He says there are no issues with the propulsion problem.

Figuring he's not divulging anything that he isnt addressed with specifics to the issue,

I ask: OK! why is the ship not able to reach it's speed capacity? He says 'There had been data received by the manufacturer of (and I dont recall which component it was he was referring to, if he even specified) that was relayed to us and it was advised that we take precautionary measures'. Not offering up specifics, I carry on:

So these precautionary measures shorten the time in ports on some itineraries? Yes he said.

So these precautionary measures prevented us from going to San Juan this sailing? Yes he said.

So the ship is going into dry dock in January for reasons of precautionary measures. yes he said.

He admitted that Celebrity had reported the problem in July which resulted in the reports from online news. [Curious... I had overheard some passengers saying they read about it earlier than July. Did anyone hear this on this board?]

Lastly, I asked why it would be that Celebrity withheld the precautionary measures it was taking from the passengers who wouldnt be able to make an informed decision (being that it might involve itinerary changes) at the time of booking their cruise vacation or st any time flr that matter. He said that was not within his dictation (or responsibility); that that would have to be answered by corporate personnel. Now that part makes sense to me.

5) I just spoke to our head Singles Host (our TA) who said that the info he relayed to us 3 days prior to sailing came straight from the memo they were given from Celebrity and was relayed to us guests as soon as they received it.

------------

Overall, If I had been given the truth straight up, up front, I wouldnt be blabbing on social media, but rather respecting the honesty of disclosure and not risking possible unnecessary cause for concern amongst guests who for whatever reason were not informed of the truths..... but I am so thoroughly unimpressed with the manner in which Celebrity personnel have dealt with my enquiries that I am spreading it like a virus.

For those of you with the absolutely wonderful attitude of 'just enjoy what the day has to bring'...... I do and I truly am having a fantastic time with the to go 40+ singles cruise. I highly recommend any singles try one of their many hosted singles sailings.

I believe passengers should have truthful information about a problem with a ship they're sailing. I, personnally, have no qualms with itinerary changes. The officers of the ship knows best. But, what I want is THE TRUTH behind WHY these itinerary changes are being made.

Booked Carnival Triumph B2B Feb 9 (11 day) & Feb 20 (10 day) for $860.43. 21 days @ $41.00 per day. No single supplement.

Nice score! Thanks for sharing.

I'm curious what port they are out of.

Hi there -

 

I have been on 15 cruises and decided to go on my first solo cruise this year - Any advice (especially on the dining??)

If you choose fixed sittings the cruiseline will seat you with other solo travelers - at least they always do on Carnival. It's great!

Hi. I'm taking a cruise that is going to have many (200+) single cruisers aged 40+ Dec 7, 2014 on the Celebrity Silhouette.

Anyone who's interested in joining please feel free to email me.

Cruiseelady;

 

I my previous post I had stated "give us half a chance to meet you". Well, sometimes that half might have to be three-quarters! I've noticed you are from Brooklyn so I assume you have the "moxie" to be a little bit more forward. Now I realize, it's easier for me to spot a single lady than it is for you to spot a single man. Married women tend to always wear their rings (third finger left hand) whereas many married men do not.

 

Let's take the breakfast buffet. You're walking around with a plate of food. You see someone alone who might be suitable. You say "Good morning, may I join you? I dislike eating alone." At this point the answer will be yes or no. If it is yes, and he is single, you have met someone. If it is no ,and he is single, at least he knows of your interest. Don't be afraid to approach single ladies either. They might be on the same mission as you, and there is nothing wrong with networking.

 

Force yourself to go to any singles meet. Sometimes they are good and sometimes not. But you will never know unless you go.

 

Go to the dance lessons. Tell the instructor you would to take part but you need a partner. This works for me because I find there are usually single women by themselves or with other singles wanting to learn.

 

Pool bars, casino bar and piano bar: This is where you can spot singles most easily. If someone is married or attached most of the time they will have their partner with them. Sometimes all it takes is: "Hello, are you enjoying the cruise?" or "What is there to do in the next port?" If there is any interest mention that you are going to the nightclub later at a certain time. One caveat - Buy your own drinks (at least for now) you do not want to feel obligated!

 

Pool: Again you will be able to spot singles for the reason mentioned above. A perfect place for a casual conversation. Again "Hello, how are you today etc, etc, etc"

 

I always opt for second seating in the main dining room. Most of the time you will be seated with age appropriate singles. Keep the conversation casual. Remember you can always network with the other single women at the table. You might even go to one of the bars or nightclub with the other single ladies. That will make it easier for single men to notice single ladies. If you happen to meet a suitable single; remember it's alright to ask him for a dance. Make sure it is something slow just in case he is not a dancer he can fake it or you can teach him. Just tell him "If you can count to five - you can dance"

 

Try to go to those venues where couples tend to go as couples: Nightclub, Piano bar and Karaoke that way you can see who is realy unattached.

 

Always keep the conversation casual and relative to the cruise. If you meet someone and there are open seats at your table or his have dinner together. Discuss what each of you are doing in the ports. You might decide to go ashore together. That way you will have someone to watch your bag while you get a massage on the beach (nothing more relaxing).

 

Formal Night: Go as formal as you can - if you want to be noticed and you will be. I always wear my Formal Mess Dress Uniform, insignia and medals included. I can assure you I get noticed.

 

Last, I always cruise B2B. By the middle of the first cruise the bartenders and wait staff know my situationand are sometimes willing to help with introductions.

 

I trust you don't think me too forward or brash. Even having been widowed twice I still enjoy female company

 

Best wishes,

 

Richard

Hi Richard!

I think what you write is valid and helpful.

Thanks for taking the time to write it!

Yes, there's a singles cruise, aimed at aged 45 plus on Celebrity Silhouette, Dec. 7'14.

I'm going. Anyone else? You should join us on the Roll Call thread.

I should mention the cruise is not going to be comletely full of singles, but there are supposed to be hundreds.

Be PRO-ACTIVE!!!!!!!!!!

 

I'm cruising "single" but know about 10 friends from past cruises that always cruise the last week of August out of Galveston. I'm employing THEM to find single girls for ME!!! Hey its a BIG SHIP and alas I'm only one man. Here's my (tongue-in-cheek) post on our Roll Call thread

 

"BTW I intend to reinstitute what I like to call the "Stallion Happy Hour Special"-all cruisers who introduce me to an eligible quality single bachelorette qualify for a free drink of their choice."

 

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Last edited by Stallion; Today at 08:14 PM. Reason: Stallion's Motto: "I'll Take Your Extra Single Girls Off Your Hands So You Can Enjoy Your Cruise"

That's pretty great. A perfect post for this thread!

Solo cruisers represent! haha, On the Carnival Liberty out of Orlando here on July 19/2014, anyone solo'ing on the Liberty as well?

Hi Matt,

I'm going on the Liberty out of Orlando Aug. 9!

:)Hi everyone. I am looking to find some solo cruising buddies myself. I love cruising and want to get back into the groove of it all. I am 30years old this month and really enjoy life and meeting new people. If any of you are like me and want to travel and see the world, I would love to connect and maybe we could become cruising buddies someday. Happy cruising to everyone.!!

 

BTW- I am trying to plan a summer cruise to the Caribbean and another one to western Caribbean next March. I can do as many as God will let me in between time as well. :)

You might like to view my profile where you'll find a link to my blog board. There are always people looking to travel on the same cruises with other solo/single cruisers. There are Tips & Tricks as well as examples of budget cruise costs too.

NO, I dont sell travel or anything. Cruising is just a great love and finding good cruise deals is a favorite pasttime. I also love organizing extra activities on cruises I go on ....like Cabin Crawls, MeetnGreets and Slot Pulls for example.

I am leaving in a few days to go on a 5-night Carnival cruise out of Jacksonville. Cant wait. Carnival Cruiselines is the best for singles socializing IMO... and not just for the younger crowd either.

What a shame this thread is not very active.

I'm 54, single and have done many cruises solo. While I'm not an aggresive socializer, I plan Meetups. Cabin Crawls, Poker Runs, Hometown Gift Swaps, etc. through the Roll Call of some of the cruises I take. It's very rewarding to meet the participants and run into them on the ship now and again. And even sometimes meet a great friend or mate I keep in touch with afterwards.

I admit I have started lurking (that term sounds creepy, but it's widely used on these boards and isnt creepy at all) to see how many other single or solo travelers are going on a particular cruise.

Anyone else do this?

I got a better deal with my Imagination cruise with my casino offer.

 

Thank you for that tidbit of information. I very much appreciate it!

Wow, lots of us single travellers going solo on Splendor out of NY, but we are on different sailings.

Go figure.

The Roll Call for the March 25 one does have alot of solo passengers tho ...and lots of organized activities.

I figured that I would check in o Cruise Critic one more time tonight before going to bed. I am sure glad that I did because you reminded me that I need to bait and set my traps, especially the one under my bed!:D

You guys make me laugh. Thanks.

I really like the idea of putting a baggy on the remote that one member on page 1 of this thread mentioned. I usually put a tissue or napkin over it. And I wished they had paper napkins at the serving stations. I would use that to cover the handles of the serving spoons.

I'm not a germaphobe, but am cautious. Certainly doesnt hurt.