LuckiePuris

12 hours ago, NeilonBoard said:

On Princess the return shuttle is $35 for both Port Chalmers and Lyttleton. When you get off the ship you pay directly to the bus company before getting on the bus. Credit cards and $NZD cash are the only method of payment. You cannot pre purchase shuttle tickets from the ship.

Thank you!

13 hours ago, yes!yes!yes! said:

Tonight's menu

I noticed two of the mains have an asterisk next to them - would you recall what this means please? Are they an additional surcharge? Thanks!

23 hours ago, yes!yes!yes! said:

Other chairs in one5

Thanks so much for all the detailed photos, really appreciate it. Trying to find a spot for scenic cruising that is somewhat protected from elements but also good for viewing.

Also great to know about salmon platter. Thank you!

On 12/27/2022 at 3:35 AM, yes!yes!yes! said:

I have photos of the smoked salmon in the dining room and the buffet. The buffet is in a smaller dish, but same amount , you get the bagel separately. I love smoked salmon. You can have as many as you want.

Thank you, great to hear! I also love smoked salmon!

21 hours ago, MicCanberra said:

I prefer the open top deck so I can swap sides at will, the Oasis (aft, deck 16) would be good for viewing and offers some cover. If the weather is bad, then any of the lounges with window views (crooners) or your own balcony if you have one.

Thank you for the tips!

5 hours ago, arxcards said:

In good weather, they will open up the deck area above the bridge. For Milford Sound, that is #1 spot, but don't tell too many people.

Wow thanks that sounds amazing! Any chance you have any photos of the space / directions? Thanks!

On 12/6/2022 at 10:30 PM, Tripmode33 said:

We've just had our first two Port visits on NZ itinerary on the Grand Princess.

At both ports, Princess has worked with a third party to provide a shuttle service - Port Chalmers to Dunedin, and Lyttleton to Christchurch.  Cost of both are $35 return (or $20 one way) payable direct to operator in NZ currency or credit card.

For those that would like to use the local Buses: these are considerably less in cost but becoming extremely more in demand by ship guests, putting pressure on the system. Today in Lyttleton, everyone caught the free short shuttle out of the working Port. Our driver let us know that the local bus to Christchurch was $2.20 NZD and she would drop those near it's first stop just outside the port - it does continue on and collect passengers from the Lyttleton township but it would be much more likely to be full by then.  The free short shuttle then dropped rest of passengers off near the information centre in town.

In Port Chalmers yesterday, ship passengers were gathering near the start of the main street (outside Georgie Girl shop) for the local bus to Dunedin.  I was told it cost $2.50.  When I watched, not everyone fitted in, with some waiting for next bus.  The driver did ask for local residents to board before ship passengers.

We chose not to travel to either Dunedin or Christchurch, as have been to those cities many times, by sea and road trips.  At both ports helpful volunteers were there with maps and suggestions for nice walks around the port villages. 

In Port Chalmers, we headed up to the Church, then continued to the lookout and Rhododendron Dell (a lovely project by the local Lions Club) - the track then meandered through the historic cemetery down to Carey's Bay. Nice water views and a historic pub there.  From there a flat walk back to town and ship.

In Lyttleton, we looked around the main street then walked up to the Time Ball, an historic navigation aid that 'drops the ball' from the tower at 1pm each day.  Plenty of interesting information up there. Then a pleasant walk back to town centre and free shuttle to port and ship.

 

If you want to do the ships provided shuttle how do you book?

Do you buy a ticket onboard or register interest onboard, and then pay locally?

We don’t want to miss out as we don’t want to do local buses.

Thanks.

Hi all, 

Looking for recommendation of where to watch scenic cruising onboard the Grand for the NZ sounds.

Is there a particular lounge or spot for best views?

Do many go outside or mainly stay inside?

Thanks!

1 minute ago, yes!yes!yes! said:

It's always open. 

Will take more photos tomorrow for you.

Thanks so much! Hope you’re having a great time!

On 12/23/2022 at 2:16 PM, yes!yes!yes! said:

Reading up in 150. It's the nightclub  late at night. Also where the elite, platinum,  suites nightly spread is held. Nice and quiet during the day. Great views over the side and the wake

Thanks for sharing! Can I please ask if you any photos showing the 150 seating for the views that overlook the wake and also the wake view? Is this venue opened anytime during day? Thanks!

On 12/23/2022 at 6:53 AM, yes!yes!yes! said:

Had breakfast in the buffet today.

The bread and butter pudding was lovely.

The "biscuits" were good. I eat them with butter and jam like scones. Corned beef hash was very good. German sausages  were the sausage of the day  and very nice. Smoked salmon is the same as the dining room 

With the smoked salmon in the dining room, I saw your earlier photo. Am I correct to assume I could ask for extra smoked salmon? Thanks

On 12/2/2022 at 6:10 PM, andlep said:

It's $130 per person with matched wines. On the last voyage, they took names down but did not go ahead with it.

 

Can I please ask where you put your name down? Thanks

On 12/11/2022 at 11:29 AM, Lilye66 said:

Hi, 

 

I have in the past cruised RC & Princess in the South Pacific so understand limitations of internet. First time on Carnival.

 

I looking for feedback from anyone who has sailed since resumption on the Splendour on  - 

 

• Has the wifi generally improved from 3 years ago?
• Can you do just a 1 day package?
• Has anyone taken a single package & shared it between separate devices? (Ie only using 1 device at a time) - any tips?

 

Thanks in advance

I haven’t cruises yet but from my own research I believe you can buy per single day or full cruise duration.

If you buy online prior to the cruise there is a 15% saving.

I believe you can share between devices but only one device can be logged in at a time.

On 12/12/2022 at 10:57 AM, AnyoneHome said:

Hi, am cruising on the Splendor next week and was wondering if anyone currently onboard a Carnival ship, or who has done so recently in Australian waters, can tell me about the masks.

Am I required to bring my own masks?

Do they provide masks - for free, or sell them?

What is the standard mask any of you would suggest?

I looked on the Carnival website but couldn't find this information explicitly set out, so hoping someone actually there in the flesh might be able to pass on this information .

Thanks in advance

regards

ET

 

I’m also travelling with Carnival soon and received an email with the following information below. As they are advising guests of the need to wear masks, I don’t believe there will be free masks onboard as the cost would be enormous, but I could be wrong.

“All guests will be required to wear masks in all indoor spaces (except when eating or drinking and in their stateroom), outdoors when in large congregate events where physical distancing cannot be maintained, during the entire embarkation and debarkation process, on buses and water shuttles (where applicable) and while indoors on any shore excursion.  KN95 masks are more protective and are highly recommended for wearing.”

On 12/10/2022 at 5:49 PM, buchhalm said:

Ahh, a man of taste.

Take him on Celebrity.  Escargot are on the every day menu,  as far as I know.

A great excuse to mop up garlic butter.

(The photos are from our local French bistro)

Also Royal Caribbean too on the daily menu!

On 12/8/2022 at 1:50 PM, Steelers36 said:

This one been covered many times.  Most guests prefer either of the mid-ship DR's over the aft DR.  That said, guests with aft cabins might prefer that one as a straight shot down the aft elevators.

Thank you however aside from location is there any other reason for a preference? 
We don’t mind walking to one or another. Thanks!

Hi all,

Michelangelo, Da Vinci & Botticelli Dining Rooms - I understand food served is the same, but wondering if there is a dining room you prefer over the other?

Etc layout, style.

Thanks!

9 hours ago, LittleFish1976 said:

 

We took a cab from the harbour to the winery and back again. There didn't seem to be any problem with ringing for one.

 

My daughter is going to Waiheke on Saturday with some friends so I'll make some enquiries and see what she recommends.

 

Thank you very much

9 hours ago, OzKiwiJJ said:

https://www.newzealand.com/au/plan/business/fullers-waiheke-island-explorer-tour/

Thanks Julie, I liked the look of this but unfortunately it only looks to run a few days a week

Visiting Wellington for a port day on a cruise, have visited before and have seen the museum, gardens and whale/dolphin watching.
Aside from cable car, would love any suggestions of what we can see/do for foodies/wine lovers without leaving the city to go to wine region.
Whether it’s a nice restaurant with a view, an experience or some must eat places, would love some ideas please!
Thank you 🙂

On 11/21/2022 at 6:09 PM, LittleFish1976 said:

 

I agree that Waiheke is a pleasant day trip. The ferry ride I loved but I do love being on a boat of any size. We went there at dusk for a wonderful dinner at one of the wineries - drinks prior to dinner, outside enjoying the view. Consequently I haven't seen much of the island (although it's very pretty) but it does lead me to comment that it would be a shame to go there and not enjoy a lovely meal which you'd be unlikely to get on a ship's tour. I've been on a winery tour with a different cruise line in another area of NZ and it was a very lame experience - not a bit of food on a tour hours long and just tasting wines.

 

Could you perhaps go there independently having booked a table at a winery restaurant for lunch? We took a cab from the harbour at Waiheke to the winery and back again. Couple it with a visit to another site there, if you wish, and have a memorable day.

Thank you for the suggestion. If we do this independently how would you get around the island to make your way to a winery or two? Thanks!

12 minutes ago, OzKiwiJJ said:

Either would be great but I'd probably go for the Waikeke excursion. The ferry ride itself is gorgeous.

Thank you, I’m leaning towards this one too as it’s better value and a bit more clear on what the tour includes.

By chance have you had any experience with the Waiheke bus that runs through the wineries? Would this be a recommended option or better to stick to the cruise tour? Thanks!

Hi all, 

Looking for feedback please on these two Princess shore excursions.

We are in port early but also leave early, which means so far all the independent wine tours we’ve found wouldn’t be suitable and won’t get back in time.

Also open to any other suggestions for food & wine sightseeing in Auckland.

We’re not particularly interested in sky towed, sea life aquarium, museums, whale watching etc, and stumped on what else to do for the day.

Thank you!

Waiheke Island & Wineries / LOCAL CONNECTIONS: A GOURMET'S WORLD

Waiheke Island & Wineries

5.5 hours

Waiheke Island 
An unforgettable taste of paradise in the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island is home to a small population of around 8,000 residents, but it has long provided inspiration for artists and writers who have graced its sandy shores, including beautiful Onetangi Beach, regarded as one of the best in New Zealand. Waiheke is also noted for its idyllic landscapes, from lush vineyards to olive groves, as well as a thriving art scene and inspiring sculpture park that brings art and nature together in harmony.

Waiheke Wineries
Blessed with a warm, dry microclimate, Waiheke Island's beautiful vineyards and olive groves thrive in the sunshine. A host of boutique wineries produce acclaimed artisan wines, and the majority of vineyards have a cellar door that is open year round, as well as tastings that include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and, more recently, Chardonnay, served with local tidbits amidst breathtaking views overlooking the Auckland skyline. Visit two wineries as you explore the island.

What you will see along the way:
During your Waitemata Harbour ferry ride, take in picture-postcard views of Auckland's waterfront, sandy beaches and coastal scenery on your approximately 35-minute cruise.

Snack:
Beautiful Onetangi Beach, long regarded as one of the best in New Zealand, is where you'll stop for a cup of morning tea and a fresh muffin. Later, as you explore the local wineries, you'll enjoy a tasting of their best labels.

LOCAL CONNECTIONS: A GOURMET'S WORLD

4.5 or 6 hours (time unclear)

WHAT YOU VISIT
The Vineyard Cottages
Designed by Princess Cruises and inspired by local expert Karen Thompson Smith, this exclusive and immersive tour allows you to have lunch at a stunning countryside retreat, to taste local products, sip wine and to relax at the magical black sand beach of Muriwai. Elle Armon-Jones, owner of The Vineyard Cottages will meet you at the dock and whisk you away to meet artisan producers, honey producers, cheese mongers and more. Once you arrive at The Vineyard Cottages, you'll stroll through the vineyard and enjoy a tasting of three different wines. Later, you can admire the work of an artist in residence, Donna Massey, whose vibrantly colored pieces line the walls of the Vintners Lodge. 

Muriwai Beach
Acclaimed as one of New Zealand's most spectacular black-sand surf beaches, the windswept cliffs are home to a huge gannet colony from August to March. 

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Your camera will be working overtime! The gardens at The Vineyard Cottages offer endless birdsongs of the fantails, Kereru and stunning parakeets while the trailhead at Muriwai Beach boasts sweeping views out to the Tasman Sea.

LUNCH
Lunch will be a showcase of produce all collected from within a six-mile radius. After the wine tasting, you'll take a trip to the veggie patch with the chef to pick herbs for the salads and taste some of the native spices dotted around the property. 

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
The bustling streets of Auckland give way to a sprawling countryside of rolling hills and quaint farmhouses.

On 11/18/2022 at 8:33 AM, Aus Traveller said:

While trying to make my dinner reservations for cruises on the Coral Princess, the Medallion app had timeslots every 20 minutes from 5pm to around 6.30. Then the next seating started with every 20 minutes from 7pm to 8,30. This is quite different from the old-style early and late dining that were at 5.30pm and 8pm. Now there is a lot of variability.

Maybe it varies ship to ship?

Grand has three dining rooms and they offered different time slots / time options depending on the dining room.

5 hours ago, Relaxing Robbies said:

That is new then. We disembarked today and some of our friends had a table booked for 6.30 every night in Botticelli. We ate with them one night when some of their companions were eating at Crown Grill.

I’m not too sure but just going by medallion dining booking options.