Supershot

Does anybody know if the Nieuw Amsterdam Panama Canal cruise in Oct. 2023 will be affected by the drought?

I was on the Emerald to Hawaii in May and I have to tell you that the food was terrible. It was so bad that I actually lost weight and how many times does that happen on a cruise? Lots of passengers, not just me, were complaining so maybe they will have remedied the situation before you go next Feb.

Let's compare a ship to a 'plane then. You can't step outside of that either although some cruises go days without a port call and flights are rarely longer than 12 hours. Smoke doesn't just waft in from the casino but also from the outside smoking areas. I had to insist on a cabin change on one cruise because of smoke coming up from a lower deck.

To all CEOs When are you going to make cruises completely no-smoking ? This will not only make it much more pleasant and healthy but, as was shown when bars and pubs the world over became smoke free and custom increased despite bar owners thinking they would lose business, it would benefit your company's bottom line.

I also love cruising solo, except for the extra costs of course. I love being able to do what I want when I want and being naturally gregarious I always find people to chat to. Most people are creatures of habit and I find the same people in the same bar every evening, especially The Martini Bar on Celebrity. Eating alone is no fun so I select a set dining time and request being on a large table with other guests. I've only once in the twelve solo cruises I've taken had to ask to be moved to another table and that was because I was put with a group who were on a family reunion. they were very nice but I felt like a spare 'un at a wedding. I only use the Buffet for breakfast so I get my coffee before I sit down then leave it on the table along with my sweater or jacket on the chair while I get my food. If the server/ bus person for my table is nearby I tell them that I'm coming back and not to clear my stuff away. Dealing with luggage can be difficult so I only take a carry on which I can manage by my self except for getting it into the overhead bin on the plane. I'm a 5ft, 75 years old woman so I smile sweetly at the nearest tall gentleman and ask if he would be so kind as to help me. They always do and usually get it back down for me when we land without me having to ask.

I was booked on the Oct. 2nd cruise and really looking forward to not having to mess with flights before and after as I live in San Diego. I've gone for the full refund as I think there is trouble brewing with Princess Cruises and a FCC from a company that has gone under is worthless. The insulting pittance of $100 is not enough to make me take a chance. Also, who want's to give business to a company that has just screwed you over.