Derbie

On 1/1/2023 at 11:13 AM, LatinaInTexas said:

We did Panorama this year late Feb early March. We did great paid excursions in 2 ports and in Mazatlan we just decided to walk/hike up to El Faro lighthouse for free.

It is suitable for all ages but could be considered moderately strenuous. We are in our early 60s and not really in shape and we did it with no issues with a few rest stops. Really nice views along the way and up top. Also a glass bridge up top.

It took us about 3 hours to go up and down. It starts out a pathway and then it's 336 steps.

This looks wonderful.  I may send our son's family up.  Before September, we would have went up this hill.  My DH had a heart attack in September, so I am still a bit nervous about this much exertion, until he gets the all clear from the cardiologist.  Thanks, as it looks wonderful!

My DH and myself were on HAL Thanksgiving week, and I wasn't allowed to leave the ship.  He went ashore and I stayed on the ship.  Before we got on board, I stated I hadn't been vaccinated, so I received a letter in the room stating, I wasn't allowed disembark in Grand Turk.  I didn't mind.  I had been there several times in the past.  

On 1/1/2023 at 1:36 PM, allinwonderland said:

I booked it through Carnival. We left the ship at around 3pm and got back by 9 so right before the ship left. I think they do a separate version of the event just for cruise ship passengers and another one for people staying at local hotels that starts and ends later.

 

If it's not on the Carnival excursions portal for your sail date then idk what to tell you - I wouldn't recommend trying to book it separately, the risk of missing the ship is way too high (plus I think they don't let you if you're a cruise ship passenger). And yes it was quite a bit more than that per person!

thank you for the reply!  I went back to the Carnival website, after I asked you the question and found the excursion.  I think we may have to pass.  There are 8 people, and I don't think I want to pay almost $1350 for all of us to go.  I may pay for our son and his wife to go and hang around with the grandkiddos that evening.  Thanks again!

Hello all!  DH and I are traveling with our son, his wife and four grandkids the last week of March.  We have been to MX Riviera several times, but not with the kids.  I would like your take on what is worth the extra money for the kids on the ship?  Which restaurants to drop some coin on?  We are not really drinkers, but I like my nice coffee over lido coffee.  I have asked questions on the ports on the Mexican Riviera board, but anyone have anything they would like to throw in, I would appreciate it.  Anything on the ship we should not miss-be it kids or adults?  Any tips would be appreciated.  

Thanks so much all you Mensa brained cruisers!

On 10/7/2022 at 8:11 PM, allinwonderland said:

DAY FIVE - PUERTO VALLARTA

 

Didn't set an alarm today and I woke up at 9, just barely too late for breakfast in the MDR, darn. We have an evening excursion so are spending the first half of the day on the ship. Time on shore was 9am-9pm.

 

I tried to go up to Lido to eat but it was a madhouse; I should’ve known better. Went back to sit in ocean plaza with my coffee for about an hour to let the crowds clear out of the buffet, and my sister met me there. Then we went back up to Lido and got breakfast - the omelet was good, the rest of the food was decent, and the passion orange guava juice was very sweet but definitely great.

 

 

After that I wanted to check out serenity since I hadn’t been up there the whole time, but there was absolutely 0 shade so I didn’t last long. Went back to ocean plaza, my favorite spot, but the bar there wasn’t open and I wanted a drink, so I ended up in the atrium bar with my laptop for a bit. My sister went to the pasta bar because she didn’t eat much breakfast; she said it was good. Around 2pm I ate about 3/4 of a Guy's burger so I would have some food in my stomach before our excursion.

 

Everyone said we had to do rhythms of the night, so we did. My sister took a Bonine before getting on the little boat to Las Caletas and she said it worked. On the boat, the crew were so fun and friendly, and the drinks were FLOWING! Then we got to the island and I immediately had to use the bathroom; they are itty bitty, almost like confessional stalls. It was so humid even without direct sun, my sundress was absolutely drenched in sweat by the end of the show, so plan your outfit accordingly - also wear shoes with some decent stability because parts of the ground are uneven. We did the show before dinner, which isn’t the order of things I was expecting after all the reviews I'd read, so I was a little thrown. So yes, it was still fairly light out but the fire effects were still awesome. The show was absolutely incredible - I don’t know what else I can say that hasn’t already been said or would be useless after all the videos that are out there. Dinner was lovely as well, a nice variety of food - salads, steak, shrimp, chicken, fish, rice, pasta, bread - and the flan for dessert was one of the best things I’ve ever tasted. Open bar on the island too. Then on the boat ride back, there were more free-flowing drinks the crew put on a great lip-syncing show to Bruno Mars and Pitbull. Everything you’ve heard about this excursion is 100% true; it’s expensive, but worth doing at least once.

 

 

After getting back to the ship and showering off the film of sweat on every inch of my skin, we went down to Alchemy for a bit before the 9:45 adult comedy show, which I ended up going solo for. JeROME was funny but I think Manny from the other night was funnier. Then I met up with my sister at the piano bar, which was surprisingly fun.

 

By now I was getting hungry again so we went upstairs and got pizza. And holy *****, there was a huge ass storm going on! Rain, thunder, lightning. It was kind of cool to watch from the safety of the boat. I was just glad PV held out on sending down the buckets till after we got back from our excursion. We ate and then went to bed.

 

Cheers count: mocha chocolate getaway, French kiss (and three margaritas, two rum punch, and a shot of Kahlua in my coffee on my excursion)

I am very much enjoying your review and pictures!  I have a quick question for you.  We will be in port the same timeframe at the end of March, as you were.  We would love to go back to Rythm of the Night but didn't think we would have time.  Seemed like when we first saw the show, our ship was in port until midnight.  I didn't see the show as an offering on the Carnival excursion list.  Did you book through the show's website?  There are 8 of us going, and I would hate for our families to get let at port!  It was only $99 pp, when we went some years back.  It has gone up in cost, by quite a lot. Thanks for any information you can provide.

My husband and I have been to the MX Rivera several times, but our son, wife and children have never been.  We are considering taking them to Stone Island for their beach day.  We would like to take them on a reasonably priced whale tour. We did this years ago, but I can't recall the name of the tour. Possibly, walking around Romantico area, Lands End etc.  We are wide open to suggestions; however, there are eight of us, and most likely the grandparents are paying. So, we are trying to be a bit conservative.  We will have some OBC, but I think the kiddos will want to do some fun things on the ship.  Any and all suggestions are welcome, for all ports.  I have been reading the posts on there for several weeks.  Also, our cruise is the last week of March, if that makes a difference to anyone.    PV 9AM-9 PM, Maz-9 AM-6:30 and Cabo 6:30 AM- 3 PM.  Thanks in advance!

On 12/30/2022 at 9:34 AM, SDPadreFan said:

Absolutely do the "Rhythms of the Night" excursion in Puerto Vallarta. What a fabulous experience. A one hour boat ride (large boat) with open bar out to a small beach. Then a small hike (sturdy shoes a good idea) on a candle lit trail to the dinner area. Dinner is great and wine, etc is included. Then another small hike on more candle lit trails to the show amphitheater. Simply OUTSTANDING SHOW. Then a hike downhill (remember sturdy shoes, not flip flops are a good idea) to the boat. Open bar again on the 1 hour ride back and the boat crew will also put on a great show. A little pricey, but it's something we would do again and again. A light jacket/windbreaker/hoodie will be handy on the ride back because it cools down (out on the water) after the sun sets in the winter.

 

One other mention. If memory serves - seating at the show is bench seating so there might not be a seat back (memory fuzzy on that one). Videos of excursion on YouTube.

My husband and I still talk about how much we enjoyed the Rhythms of the Night.  This was just Broadway quality, with a great dinner and boat ride over.  I agree with you 100%!

Just an FYI for anyone that sailed on this ship.  My husband started feeling bad on Saturday. I started feeling badly on Sunday evening.  I think you all know where this is going.  He tested positive on Monday and I did this morning.  This is the second time for both of us, so I hope it will be a little easier this go round. Again, just an FYI in regard to passengers on this cruise.

8 hours ago, missholly24 said:

Thank you so much for the info! I will just avoid this itinerary. Bummer because HMC is my favorite place on earth and they are somewhat connected. 

It is disheartening when a favorite place cannot be entered. I hate sharing this information, but I thought it was important.  Maybe, we will see this lifted soon.

6 hours ago, PACD_JG said:

 

I think your review is very fair, but I guess I don't feel sorry for the kids on the cruise because the parents should have known better - HAL's niche has never been about children.  I say this as somebody who was on this cruise with a 15 and 14 year old (our second with HAL).  Saying you sympathize almost sounds like you're excusing them from being little jerks.

I should have clarified my point on kids.  I never want to excuse bad behavior.  My point was I feel sorry #1 for the lack of activities for the kids.  #2 that their parents made the decision to take them on a cruise that is not directed to kids. 

5 hours ago, Ellencruise said:

I agree HAL is not my first choice if I were traveling with children, teens, etc.  There are many more cruise lines that cater to the younger crowd.

that being said is why my husband and I like HAL!

When we start planning a family trip we are looking at Disney or Celebrity.

I agree.  The other choices are much better for families with kids. 

On 10/11/2022 at 11:08 AM, missholly24 said:

Hello!!

Does anyone have first hand knowledge of disembarking without the vaccine???

The actual Turks and Caicos government website says "Anyone over 18 must be fully vaccinated to visit"

Holland told me directly you do not need it "according to their records" and also a travel agent emailed 

me "The vaccine requirement was dropped". So confusing. Thank you!

I just got off the HAL Statendam yesterday.  I can tell you that I was not allowed off the ship. I received a letter in the room that stated I was not allowed to leave the ship, since I was not vaccinated.  I stayed onboard, and my husband went over alone. I had been there before, so it was not a disappointment for me.  Just wanted to share the information.

My husband I were on this sailing.  It was our first sailing on HAL.  We both had to adjust ourselves to so much less to do, than other lines we have sailed on. We really like to stay busy when traveling, be it land or sea.  I honestly felt sorry for the kids on the cruise, since there appeared to be very little for them on the schedule each day.  I heard people complaining about how many kids were sailing; however, it was Thanksgiving week for Americans, and schools were out for fall break.  We booked a balcony room on the 5th deck, and found it quite nice, and the views were beautiful each day.  We had the HIA package.  Neither one of us drink much, but I did take advantage of the Dutch cafe and the lattes each day.  Wifi was terrible at best.  We had once a day room service from the staff.  Our steward offered to clean twice, if we hung out the notice on the door.  We never asked for it.  We did dine at Pinacle and Caneletto.  The food in both restaurants and service were very good.  I would say the placement of what is supposed to feel like a quiet Italian restaurant is, well anything but.  Lido is right there, and there is a constant march of people going by the windows towards the buffet.  I found the afternoon tea nice, but certainly not the best I have encountered before.  Thanksgiving dinner was disappointing, but service was always good.  My husband was really looking forward to BB Kings, as he is a lover of the blues.  The band was very solid, but it was not' the genre of blues at all.  It was much more R&B and should be noted by blues fans.  The rock band was very talented as well.  The classical group were excellent musicians.  We only saw the comedy show once, but he was very funny and quite clean.  I understand so many people have a lot to compare this cruise to, since we met so many wonderful people who had been on many HAL cruises, so I understand as I miss SO many options on other cruise lines from times gone by.  I am waiting to see if an item is removed from our account.  I wanted a delft blue cup and saucer for my sister. Our heritage is Dutch and Scott, so Delft is in our blood.  LOL.   Customer Service sent me to the Dutch Cafe.  They sold a set that had two cups (not the same as they use) and coffee.  I went ahead and purchased a set for what I believe was $32.00.  Well, there was a tip added for well over $6.00.  I am liberal tipper and added $ on my paper receipts many times during our cruise.  I refuse to pay 18% on a gift.  I went to CS and they advised me they could not remove it.  So, I asked them to take the item back and remove it from my account. It was still on my account, along with a coke from the fridge that we had put in there ourselves. As of yesterday afternoon, it was still showing. It was refreshing to not have the constant pushing of items for sale.  I thought we would see the cruise director out more often, but we never saw here accept at talks, etc.  We are planning on a two-week Alaska cruise/land trip this summer with HAL, that was cancelled twice due to Covid.  

Thank you all SO very much!  I do have one quick question.  Would you all recommend we head to the Dutch Cafe for lunch when we board or another spot?  You all are the best!  

Sorry all!  It posted twice, and I can't figure out how to delete the second one!

DH and myself are sailing out tomorrow on the N. S.  Any last-minute suggestions?  We have two restaurants booked.  One excursion in place.  We have been to all of the ports several times in the past (except for Half Moon Caye).  I have been watching this board for several months, so I do have a good idea what to expect with Wifi, drink package, gala nights, etc.  So, I thank you all for the great information.  Anything else anyone can think of, please post.  I will be watching for your clever ideas and fore thoughts.  We fly out tonight and spend the night in Ft. Lauderdale and then the port at 11AM (assigned time).  If the snow storm in NY doesn't cancel flights for Nashville!

Thanks in advance!

DH and I are heading out for the Thanksgiving week cruise on HAL. I saw a service that was less expensive on here that will allow you to utilize the government issue tests they supplied for free.  I couldn't locate the name of the company on the board.  Someone posted about this company awhile back. Fingers crossed that they get rid of the test requirement (as Princess has now done) but I want to be prepared.  Anyone remember the name of the company or use them in the past?  

Thanks a bunch!

18 hours ago, crystalspin said:

It is absolutely possible to do this; the first time you sent your laundry in, just check the 'unlimited' box on the laundry slip. You will be charged for the number of days/nights in your cruise regardless if you wait to the 3rd or 4th day to send, so send away!

 

As far as I know that is the price.

 

From @Crew News: 

Thanks for sharing this!  I often do the stuff the bag on other lines. Although, I don't see a price on this option.  Any clues on the cost?  Thanks in advance,

On 10/8/2022 at 8:01 AM, richwmn said:

I have done that as well, but here there is a limit of $1 per gallon using fuel points.

that is a shame!  My husband has often taken the full amount of our points, and paid literally a couple of dollars to fill his tank.  We are in the Nashville, TN area.

On 10/6/2022 at 10:51 PM, crystalspin said:

Most of us would jump at an investment that delivered 10%. I have saved $500 buying AARP 10% less cards and paid off the second leg of our upcoming B2B on the HAL promotion -- with $149 bonus cards for OBC. I wish were flush enough to pay down the $15,000 outstanding on our 2024 cruise! But will hope for another gift-card promotion and/or go back to AARP now that they seem to have the process smoothed out.

Is there a way to get notice from AARP on the cards?  We are members.  First cruise on HAL; although, we have probably been on 15-20 cruises with other lines.  I am also thinking of buying Carnival stock.  Getting geared up for retirement in the next year or so.  Money, will not be as plentiful.  Looking for all ways to save a dollar.  Also, we purchase gift cards when our local Kroger store has 4 times the fuel points.  Purchase $500 in cards, and save $2.00 per gallon on gas.  That works on our end as well.  Thanks.  I look forward to your reply.

On 10/1/2022 at 2:54 PM, Guardsy said:

Hoping I can complete this deal in time for a 14-day cruise on HAL.  At the price it is at, YES!

Would you mind sharing where your purchased your shares (if this is allowed on this board)?  I want to take advantage of the same kind of opportunity.    Thanks.  

On 9/10/2022 at 12:33 PM, Ms411 said:

The cruise lines change their excursions regularly and vary by cruise line, so you have to look at what both excursions include. They usually include all round trip transportation, entry fees, beverage (which may be just bottled water), snack, and a lounge chair. If you go on your own you pay for everything. The more expensive excursion may include a land tour of St John in addition to beach time. You will see some beautiful sites on the way to Trunk Bay, but the island tours usually pass spectacular views.

 

Your port time does give you plenty of time for a nice visit to St John if you are the type that is up early and quick off the ship. You could possibly make the 9 a.m. ferry from Red Hook. If you miss it, you'll spend time waiting for the next. Buy a round trip ferry ticket.

 

You would need to be on the 3 p.m. return ferry AT THE LATEST to make sure you're at the dock before 4:30, and that's if there's not an unpredictable delay. 

 

Can you tell I'm a detail person?😊

 

I wanted to ask you what you would recommend at Trunk Beach?  This is where the tour drops us (from the description on the tour).  Any suggestions, are very much appreciated!  Details are great/ ;0)

17 hours ago, Busiteacher1 said:

Crystalspin I’m with you on the lattes haha!  I was on the Noordam in May.  The crows nest has great lattes and espressos.  The only problem I found is that they don’t open very early.  Have a blast~

Do you happen to know if the Niew Statendam has latte's etc., in the main dining room, and other spots?  Thanks,

On 9/9/2022 at 12:56 PM, nagsheadbeachbum said:

We have done this 2x in the past 10 years and plan to do it again on the Rotterdam in February.

In the past the taxi driver on St. Thomas had a buddy on St. John waiting for us and he took us to Trunk Bay and picked us up. He then called his St. Thomas buddy and told him what ferry we were on. He was waiting for us at Red Hook If you are cognizant of the time, this is definitely the way to go, as you can twice as much time on St. John vs the cruise excursion.  It's really easier than you think, plus the ferry ride is usually quite calm and pretty.

 

I just went back and read the description of both excursions a second time, and I may just try to do the taxi to the ferry; per, your "detailed" instructions.  ;0) The reviews complained it was too limited on time.  One person said they only got 90 mins total on the island.  I would like a little longer than this.  I think I strongly consider your recommendation!  There seemed very little difference in the two tours; except, for (I believe) where they drop you off in St. John.  Thanks so very much!

7 hours ago, Florida_gal_50 said:

No, I was speaking of the dressy nights since the op asked about that.  I don’t mean to say they would have thanksgiving twice.  I agree it would likely be day 6.  Canadian thanksgiving is much earlier so I can’t speak to much to that.

Thanks, we were on the same page.  I appreciate you replying!