I missed the ship last week! Allure, at first port... what to expect...

[kirian]

 

Chances are this guy has a life outside of cruise critic. He obviously has a family. I'm sure he isn't going to take a day off from work or cancel his Saturday plans just to tell some crazy people on the internet what happened. I appreciate his style of relaying the events, makes it more interesting to read.

 

 

I'm still catching up on the posts from yesterday and today (to the detriment of posting on my own thread :eek:), but I just had to quote your post Smileyperry and say how much I agree with you. No one is forcing people to follow this thread or his story. If people can't handle the wait, don't like his style of writing (which I actually enjoy) or just plain don't believe him, they are free to move along (same goes for anyone following my extremely drawn out, lengthy and dramatic review....lol :D:cool:)

 

Melissa

[CI66774]

I'm not going to argue with you for what I FEEL IS RIGHT but I do feel reimbursement for money spent off ship is due to him. No further statements are required.

 

I suspect very few, if anyone, would agree with you. RCL isn't liable for one dime.

[willing292]

How did your young son get back to the ship? By himself or did he find your wife?

 

 

Shirley, Sent from my iPad using Forums mobile app

[CI66774]

I never said that someone should not buy insurance. You said that if someone cannot afford the insurance then they cannot afford to cruise. You have no right to say this, and that was clearly the point of my post. I see now that you have backed off that statement. Nonetheless, you are now providing other false information to make your opinion sound more plausible.

 

Neither car nor home insurance is mandatory. The lender might require first party coverage, but if you don't have a lender then the first party coverage is not mandatory. No law in California that requires a homeowner to have liability insurance. As for the car, all you have to do is post a bond. This means that you are self insured. And, following this line of reasoning, insurance is NOT mandatory for cruising.

 

Since you admit that you don't know everyone's situation, then you are in no position to say that if someone cannot afford the insurance they cannot afford to cruise. Just because it gives you peace of mind does not mean that everyone who cannot, or chooses not to buy insurance cannot afford to cruise.

 

It does not matter how small a price you believe that insurance is. It is not up to you to decide what someone else chooses, or chooses not to do with their money.

 

You are confusing Bill Gates with Paul Allen. Paul Allen owns a super yacht. Bill Gates does not. Check your facts. Bill Gates either rents a yacht or goes with a friend who owns a yacht. However, Bill Gates does not own a yacht. Therefore, yes, Bill Gates does cruise. His choice of ships may be different than ours, but he does not go on his own ship, just like we do not.

 

Does he have insurance for his car or home. You admit you don't know, and just because you think he does, does not make it so.

 

As to the hotel, I again point out, what happened to the OP IS NOT A COVERED EVENT. One call to the insurance company would NOT have changed anything.

 

Even if the event was covered, which it is not, the following is from a travel policy ...

 

 

 

So one phone call to the insurance company would not change anything.

 

Here is a list of the perils that the company will pay for under trip interruption, trip delay or missed connection ...

 

 

 

What happened to the OP does not meet the definition of any of the above named perils, thus there is no coverage for what happened to the OP.

 

All insurance policies have exclusions. Check out exclusion number sixteen below. Once again, I point out that what happened to the OP IS NOT COVERED by travel insurance.

 

 

 

The bottom line, insurance would NOT have helped the OP one bit.

 

Actually, in Colorado auto insurance (liability) is mandatory. Other states may allow a bond in lieu of insurance but not Colorado and some other states.

[klfhngr]

I am not bashing you at all, just wondering about the phone situation. Being from MA, we have 10 digit dialing for all calls now. As you are posting things for people to consider, I was just adding to the phone things to consider as many on these boards don't seem to know a lot about cell phones.:)

 

My apologies....

 

Our natural instinct is to hit redial, or to call back the number that was missed. But, if saved that number without the 1 in front of the area code, then you're screwed. You have to free dial the number with the 1 and code. it's little things like this that you don't think about when your panicking. I was told that on some of the other islands, it works differently. This is why, on future cruises, I will know EXACTLY what to dial :)

 

Again, I apologize.

[Folk Singer]

Basically they got drunk and missed/nearly missed the ship.

 

 

How sad.:(:(

Edited October 26, 2014 by Folk Singer

[klfhngr]

I do have one more question.... had the ship already started to leave before you got to the dock? Or did it leave as you were coming down the dock?

 

I literally rolled right next to it as it was moving away. I could've jumped off the pier and touched the ship, that's how close it was. The thrusters were already in action.

[klfhngr]

Two questions...

-Did you get your $300 OBC back on either your or your wife's account?

-Did anyone explain why you had to go through customs twice in Jamaica?

 

Thanks again for sharing your experience!

 

Eventually we did, but that was another nightmare. Let me put it this way: When they, Royal, says they took care of it, CHECK AGAIN! I was told twice that it was taken care of, when it wasn't. It wasn't until Louise, from Guest Services, took over that it was handled!

 

No one ever explained this. I had to tell them that I already filled out my customs forms when I landed at MoBay.. but no explanation given.

[klfhngr]

I've been on these boards for years and have read now and again where someone misses the boat ..... I definitely remember reading how someone from Royal would always be at the pier to help personally get you situated. I have also remembered how 2 people actually were put on another ship (probably same line) to meet up at next port. If the ship actually did leave at 5pm and it was the expected time I'd DEFINITELY send a copy of this saga to someone in charge at Royal and hopefully get some reimbursement from them. Stop saying it wasn't their fault. I've been on many Caribbean cruises where we left 1/2hour to 1 hour late while we see people running to the ship. Those ships waited. Sorry but I do think they could have waited.

 

I appreciate your support, but here's the problem: When my family was trying to contact me from the ship, they kept asking if they reached me. They said no. After several minutes of this, that's when my wife heard the captain say that they can't wait for one person. I think that if they new I was literally a BLOCK away, perhaps they would've waited. But no one knew where I was. :(

[klfhngr]

I certainly hope that the friend who caused all these problems will cover all your expenses. If it was me, I certainly would.

 

Well, as I mentioned earlier, he did have some cash in his backpack, he told me to take whatever. But I felt bad, not sure why, maybe because I know his daughter was on board and they wanted to have a great vacation? Idk. he did continually offer to pay for stuff, drinks, stuff on land, etc. Also, he's a dentist, he said that we'd be getting plenty of 'free services', which already began last week. By coincidence, my wife had a root canal the week before the cruise. Guess who's taking care of the prep work, the crown, etc.? ;)

[time4u2go]

OP, did you get off the ship in Cozumel?

[klfhngr]

Thank you for coming back and telling us your story. SCARY STUFF!!!!!

I am a female, and if that happened to ME, I'd be a MESS!!!!:eek:

Your story helps us all prepare for the worst.

Now we know what we need to take off the ship, in case something like this happens.

Thank you for the taking the time to share your story with us.

 

I honestly think this is every cruisers worst nightmare.

 

Glad it turned out OK for you.:D

 

Thank you and the others that heard me out.

 

I too was thinking, what if it was my wife, or another woman? Not that you ladies cant handle your business, I know you can. But IF were ever to happen to my wife, she'd be a mess! Now, at least she knows what to do.

 

I failed to list act CONFIDENT as you stroll the streets. I know that this applies anywhere, but this is something that you might forget to do. When I was escorted out of the dock area, at first I was trembling, I didn't know where to go! Many eyes were on me. But as I stated, I had to act tough and be strong. And that's what it I did.

 

I'm not acting like I'm some kind of a hero or superstar, I didn't do anything spectacular! I'm just sharing my inner thoughts, the stuff that goes thru your head, the 'real' stuff like transportation, hotels, air, fees, etc.

 

That is the only reason I posted this. Not for attention, not for sympathy. Just to better prepare others, should they find themselves in this situation.

 

Mow if my son or friend ended up with me, shoot, now that's another story, lol! We would've had a blast... ;)

[cruisinfanatic]

Actually, in Colorado auto insurance (liability) is mandatory. Other states may allow a bond in lieu of insurance but not Colorado and some other states.

Don't know what planet Cuizer2 lives on but insurance is certainly mandatory in California to drive as well as most other states. You also can't have a mortgage without homeowners insurance anywhere

[klfhngr]

Remember, the friend is a dentist and the OP and his family are getting a lot of free dental work! Do you know how expensive dental work is?? I am sure they will get their $1000 worth!

 

Thank you so much to the OP for such a great story! Your writing style is amazing! You sound like such a wonderful man and father! I don't think I have ever read anything on CC that had me so emotional and sitting on the edge of my seat to hear more! This is all very valuable info for cruisers!

Thanks again for sharing your "adventure".

Lauri

 

Exactly :)

 

Ah Lauri, thank you for your kind comments, you're making me teary eyed, lol!

[wildcatt99]

I appreciate your support, but here's the problem: When my family was trying to contact me from the ship, they kept asking if they reached me. They said no. After several minutes of this, that's when my wife heard the captain say that they can't wait for one person. I think that if they new I was literally a BLOCK away, perhaps they would've waited. But no one knew where I was. :(

 

Thanks for sticking with those of us who have supported you. Also, give your friend a break, I am sure he feels awful. I can't believe how you stuck with us after some of the crap some of these idiots posted, it showed me how much character you have. You helped more people than you will ever know. God bless you and your family.

[klfhngr]

Thanks for relating the story of your unfortunate situation. While we do have copies of our passports, which we always take ashore, leaving the actual PP in the safe, I heard from another cruiser that if you do miss the boat, security will retrieve your PP from your room safe and give it to the port agent. Is this true. I may have relied on bad or mis- info for a false sense of security and it was not true.

 

As for port agents, we had an unfortunate medical crisis and were disembarked early in Naples last year. The Princess port agent was absolutely phenomenal and gave me lots of help and advice. This was especially important where we did not speak the language and needed to rebook flights back home after the crisis was resolved 10 days later. I assumed most port agents and cruise lines were like this. Princess checked in with us every day and wanted to do anything they could to help. We even received a call from head office 4 months after returning home to check up again. Mind you, we were billed for the port agent's services, but why shouldn't we be?

 

Gubby, I think you are correct. They actually WENT TO MY ROOM with my wife, and asked her if I had my pp or any documentation. She told them yes. They actually opened the safe in front of her to make sure. When they realized that I had what I needed, that was it. But I believe that if it was in the safe, they would've given it to Alfred.

[time4u2go]

On the Freedom two weeks ago, they only listed the time to be back on board. Never listed the actual sailing time.

 

So you watched your passport sail away locked in the safe. What happened to the Urban legend that they race to your cabin and deliver your passport to the pier?

 

Gubby, I think you are correct. They actually WENT TO MY ROOM with my wife, and asked her if I had my pp or any documentation. She told them yes. They actually opened the safe in front of her to make sure. When they realized that I had what I needed, that was it. But I believe that if it was in the safe, they would've given it to Alfred.

 

Guess it's not an urban legend after all. :rolleyes:

[time4u2go]

Don't know what planet Cuizer2 lives on but insurance is certainly mandatory in California to drive as well as most other states. You also can't have a mortgage without homeowners insurance anywhere

 

I believe they were referring to first-party insurance (which generally isn't required), and not liability (which generally is required).

 

They were also making the point that if you don't have a mortgage, you don't have to have homeowner's insurance.

[klfhngr]

Again, thanks for the kind words all, I'm glad that I was able to help a few of you. Regarding the flamers, well, lets just hope that this never happens to them, and if it does, I bet they wished they would've stuck around.

 

Yes, I'm letting my friend slide. We're good :)

 

And no, I WAS NOT DRUNK and not a victim of Sr Froggs or Carlos and Charlies, lol!

 

Peace, we did make it to the Funky Buddha on Saturday, it was GREAT! Thanks for the suggestion!

 

Oh, regarding my son: He was with my friend and his daughter, they all boarded together. When my wife and oldest son arrived at the ship, there they were, to her shock and anger.

Edited October 26, 2014 by klfhngr

[klfhngr]

Oh, yes I did get off of the ship in Cozumel, lol! I was expecting the familiar sound again, 'ERRRRR", but it didn't go off! :)

 

I was sitting at the beach and watching from far away a Carnival ship sailing in. All of a sudden, I see it make a U TURN and head back to see! I told my friends, check that out, why is it leaving?!

 

A day or two later, we find out that this was the ship with the person that had contact with the Ebola patient!

 

Some have asked if i'll cruise again? IDK, I'm sure I will, but not in my immediate plans. Maybe a land trip, AI, or Maui. Also, there were many things ON the ship that didn't make a great impression. I won't go into an Allure review, but it wasn't what I expected, i.e., I expected a lot more.

[reallyitsmema]

My apologies....

 

Our natural instinct is to hit redial, or to call back the number that was missed. But, if saved that number without the 1 in front of the area code, then you're screwed. You have to free dial the number with the 1 and code. it's little things like this that you don't think about when your panicking. I was told that on some of the other islands, it works differently. This is why, on future cruises, I will know EXACTLY what to dial :)

 

Again, I apologize.

 

No worries.:)

 

This website will link anyone to all the major cellphone carriers and tell you what the costs are on the ships and in ports. You will also find dialing directions.

 

http://www.wmsatsea.com/roaming-partners.html

 

I have Verizon and they have a very easy to use travel planner that lets you choose the ship you are sailing and all the countries you are visiting. You then choose your phone type and it gives you more information than you would ever need.;)

 

I really am glad you were finally able to rejoin your family on the ship. Maybe in a few years, this will just be one of those "remember when" stories that you share with friends and family over a few beers.

[ignites]

If anyone is real lazy to flip through the pages ... heres the shortcut to all his posts :)

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/search.php?searchid=56770949&pp=25

[skillet]

Thanks clfhngr and again sorry we missed ya. Maybe another time. Glad you and your family are ok.

 

 

 

Let The Party Begin!!!

[skiiergirl]

The following is from all of the OP's posts, minus most of the irrelevant banter with other posters about flaming....

 

 

if this happens to you!

 

I've stayed away from CC since before the cruise on Allure from the 12th - 19th. I'll give a brief overview at a later time, but I did miss the ship in Nassau and want to share what to expect.

 

First, it's surreal seeing the ship leave w/o you, almost an out of body experience! No words or emotions to describe the feeling.

 

Once the boat leaves, then what? The port literally becomes a ghost town after a FEW minutes of the ship leaving! If it wasn't for Alfred, the port authority for RCCL, I would've broke!

 

I missed the ship because of member of our group not returning to the agreed upon spot at the agreed upon time. Why did I wait? Because my son was with him and his daughter.

 

I'll explain in detail later the full story, what exactly happened after the ship left and what suggestions and advise I can offer. The extra costs involved, two extra nights in a foreign port/country with NO contacts, NO friends. Having to fly back to the USA, then back to the next port. Then the trouble boarding the ship again, it's not as easy as they say it is, 'just fly to the next port if you miss the ship'.

 

Anyhow, more to come. I can answer questions also

 

Thanks all.... again, I'm posting this so that others can learn from MY mistake.

 

First, yes, I did want to knock my friend out! His story is that he periodically kept looking at/for us in Atlantis and would see us, but the last time he looked over the edge of the waterpark, he didn't see us anymore. We explained to him that we NEVER left! Why would we leave, especially w/o our son!? Also, we had 3 of their backpacks with clothes, wallets, phones, etc. We knew that they needed this to get back on the ship! I was SO ticked off!

 

The agreed upon time to meet was 3:30, last call for ship was 4:30. I told my friend this, he tried to say 4:00. I said, NO, 3:30, we need to make it back! He agrees. 3:30 comes, nothing, 3:45, nothing. 4:00, nothing! At 4:15 I sent my oldest son and wife back. They did not want to go, but I said that they had too, and that I'll meet them there. 4:30 comes and nothing! Finally, at 4:40 I decided to head back. Keep in mind, I have 3 FULL backpacks, Atlantis is HUGE! No one there is helpful, I even asked for a ride on a golf cart to the front, they said no! I get on a cab, explain my story. The cabbie is FLYING to get me to the ship. Then TRAFFIC!

 

Someone asked if I had the port authorities number? No, BUT, as soon as I exited the cab, someone in a golf cart SCREAMS, are you 'so-and-so'? I say yes. He yells, run and jump on the cart! I jump on, he's HAULING to the ship, flying over bumps. I'm excited because the ship is still there, my heart is pumping, I'm excited that I made it. But wait, the ship is moving! I can literally jump off the dock and touch the ship if I wanted to. Alfred says, 'it's gone'! I say no, it can't! My family, my stuff! NO!! NO!!!! I'm looking up at the bridge, begging them to stop, but no,, it kept going. That's when I went numb. Anger, sadness, emotions all going me at one time. I literally felt NUMB, that I was looking down at myself! I wanted to scream, but couldn't. I wanted to cry, but couldn't. I keep looking at the ship, thinking that maybe by mind control I could turn the ship back, but obviously that didn't' work. The ship was gone....... As I'm seeing the ship leave, I'm thinking of my wife and two kids onboard, wondering what they were going thru. I'll touch on that later.

 

This is when reality kicked in. I'm alone, in a country that I'm not familiar with. What do I do now? Did my son make it back? Why did Captain Johnny leave me?!

 

More to come on my 'new found' adventure.

 

Thanks to all those that understood why I waited... for my son. The not knowing.

 

I'll answer a few questions:

No, I did not have pp. Why? I've been on many cruises and 'assumed' that nothing would ever happen to me. Wrong!

Did it cause a HUGE problem, not having one, as someone mentioned? No! Reason: The embassy was close. I can imagine it being a HUGE ordeal if it was a larger country or if the embassy was far away.

Did I knock my friend out? No, lol.

What did I have in my belongings? Wallet, old pp, birth certificate and MONEY! In the past I would keep the majority of my cash onboard, for some reason I didn't this time. The cash and a credit card that I just purchased really 'saved' me. I prefer to pay cash or use debit, but for this trip I activated a new card that I let expire.

 

In a bit I'll post the rest of the story, the extra charges involved and the dilemma of getting back on the ship. Oh, and once your back on the ship, it's like you've been 'ERASED'! I'll elaborate.

 

Oh, and to those I was supposed to meet onboard: I went to the bar at 3:30, but no one was there on sail away, lol! I did see someone's post and saw that the party moved to another location! Bummer, maybe if we would've met, one of you would've jumped off the ship so it would come back, lol!

 

Thanks DC, yes, I'm at work and posted this reply during lunch. I'll post the rest in a few hours so that you are not all left hanging.

 

Quickly: You are not being punked. A group of us headed to Atlantis on our own. My wife and two boys, 22 and 16 y.o. My friend and his 12 y.o. daughter. Once we arrived at Atlantis, my wife, my 22 yo and myself decided that we would chill at the beach, while my 16 yo would go in the water park. Hence, that's where it all began.

Why did my friend not come back? He said he didn't see us, I find that hard to believe.

Yes, I did have 3 backpacks, with their sail and signs. They headed to the ship and were able to get on. If I would've told my son to be there at 330, he would've. I never relayed that to him.

Why didn't my wife call me? She, my sons, my other 10 or so friends on the ship did. When I'd answer, the phone would disconnect. When I'd call back, it would not go thru. Which now reminds me: As your PRE cruise planning, FIND OUT HOW TO DIAL OUTSIDE OF THE U.S.A. WITHIN THAT COUNTRY!

Why did I wait? Idk, parent instinct. I couldn't leave w/o my child, period! All the 'what ifs' start going thru your mind.

 

I'll post more shortly.

 

My apologies, I'm back...

 

First, I know that some said that they would've gone to the ship and checked so see if son was on... but think about it, what if my friend left him, and my son was all alone in Atlantis, NO MONEY, no clothes, NO STREET SMARTS?! For those of you that said you would've gone to the ship, I really don't know what to say... just think about it.

 

 

Passport: We didn't have one, wife and I had one that expired. We paid for this trip for the 4 of us, spent at least 5k or more, just for the trip. When we learned that only a birth certificate and license was needed, we figured we'd save the 600. Again, over 15 cruises, nothing has ever happened to us. It was a close looped cruise, what the heck, nothing is going to happen.

 

I'll continue..

 

So, ship is leaving, I'm looking up at the bridge, begging, waving my arms, hoping that captain johnny would turn back. Alfred, the port authority said it's gone, it's gone. I just thought of my family, waiting for me, expecting me to come around the corner surprising them, but not this time. Reality kicked in, Alfred made a U-turn and ran into another person that worked at the pier. He asked her to take me. She said, take him where? There's nothing that I can. He kept gesturing to her to take me and do whatever. She wouldn't budge, and said I can't, there's nothing I can do! She rolled away!

 

Alfred said i'll drop you off at the gate. I asked him, told him, what am I going to do?! I don't know where to go, I don't know what to do. I don't know anyone out here! Again, the port was emptying out, and I know that Alfred sensed that I was really scared, which I was…

 

Alfred sensed that I was scared. He's an English gentleman, in his 60's. As I mentioned earlier, he was yelling at me to get on the cart. But after the ship left, he was kind, understanding and even apologetic. He said that we were all calling you! The captain was waiting! They even had the gang plank down for you! As someone mentioned, he said once the ship starts rolling out, it's not coming back, it's like a jet! Its not like the old days.

 

I asked Alfred if he could get me on a boat and catch up to the ship. He said that this is no longer an option, they don't do this anymore and the Allure is to big. Was I mad at Capt. Johnny? Not at all! It's a business, and time is money, so I don't fault him nor am I angry.

 

Alfred says, ok, go out the gate, wait a block down at the corner. I'll be driving a blue van, when I honk, JUMP IN! This is when I turn into Jason Bourne, or James Bond! But, as I exited the gate, I realized that I'm the only 'white' person, all eyes are on ME! I have 3 backpacks, I'm trembling (I'm a big guy and can take care of myself, but..). I realize, I cant act weak, I've seen Animal Planet, I know what happens to the weaker animals!

 

So, I put on my sun glasses, put the one backpack into the other, fling them over my back and start acting like I belong there! I walked back and forth, with confidence! Inside, I was shaking! It wasn't night time yet, but the sun was definitely going down!

 

I'm pacing, then I hear the honk! I cross the street and jump in! He said, this IS what you need to do, I'm going to show you three places, remember where to go! First, in Nassau, you have to drive in a circle, it's hard to explain, sorta like a large loop. So he say, the first stop is the hotel, second stop is Mr Photo and the third spot is the embassy.

 

He drives to the hotel, I'm expecting the Hyatt, or Hilton.. WRONG! It's a 'place' in the middle of town, he says this is where you are staying tonight! He drives in a large circle as we go to the next stop, Mr Photo. He says, be here at 8 am sharp, take two photos. After that, walk 3 blocks to the east. He stops, points down the street. Asks me if I see that picket fence 3 blocks down on the second story, behind McDonalds? I say yes. He says, that street is where the U.S. Embassy is, walk there, they'll be expecting you!

 

He drives back to the motel, I'm trying to recall the streets, which block is which, what time did he say to be at Mr Photo, etc.... After this, again, the reality of me not being on the ship kicked in! I started thinking about my family again, I was hoping that I'd see a familiar face... nope. I was thinking, what are they doing now?

 

Up until this point, I still have NOT spoken to anyone. It's close to 2 hours since the ship left. I can imagine how my wife felt, my youngest son especially, and even my oldest. My oldest earlier, before we left Nassau, asked, why do we always wait for people? People never wait for us! Why can't we just go on our own!? This started to race thru my mind. Boy was he right!

 

Alfred opens the door, and walks me in to the motel. As I walk in, ALL eyes are on me. It's not a bad place (ok, sort of bad), but not a place I would ever stay at. It was in a bad part of town, no one was talkative, and they all stared. Alfred explains to the manager of the hotel what happened to me.. They ask me for a credit card, I sign, they give me a key and that's it.

 

I haven't eaten since morning, I have no desire to do so. I feel like throwing up, and even more so now that Alfred says he's leaving! He tells me to get some rest, do the things he mentioned, and after doing that, he asked that I call him so that we can make flying arrangements. Then, a disclaimer: IF we can find a plane that fly's out on time! 'WHAT, what do you mean Alfred'!? He says, 'there are not to many daily flights that go out of Nassau, especially to Jamaica! WHAT? I might miss the boat again?! Yes, but let's play it by ear!

 

I need to clarify a few things: Alfred was the port authority. He is a nice and good man. The place was not a dump, just something that I am not accustomed to. He didn't deliberately drop me off at the first dive. Obviously he knows this place, feels comfortable and knows that its close to everything.

 

Also, by no means am I trying to be dramatic or get attention. I have a life outside of CC, sorry! I'm in Socal, it's 80 degrees, I can be doing something else, but I want others to learn from my mistake.

 

After paying and getting my keys, Alfred says to keep in touch after I get my passport. I'm escorted to my room upstairs. It was a small, clean room, with a shaking ceiling fan and an AC that blew hot air. No big deal.

 

I dump the backpacks on the bed, I sit in the chair, and this is when it all sinks in. I'll admit it, this is when I got emotional. I still couldn't believe that this happened to ME. First, I'm never late to anything, I'm always 5 - 10 minutes early to everything. 'Bad' things never happen to me. Yes, I've almost missed ONE flight once, but that was it.

 

After a few minutes of staring at the bed and feeling sorry for myself, I said, that's it, enough of this. I'm not on the ship, my family is, but I need to make the best out of this. 'Snap out of it, get up and do something' is what I told myself

 

I got my backpack and flipped it over and dumped everything out to see what I had. I had suntan lotion, wallet, old pp, birth certificate, my cell phone, headphones and RCL stuff. Oh, my swimming trunks and an extra shirt, which I usually do NOT carry or have on me, but for some reason I did

 

I frantically grab my phone to call my family, it rings then nothing. I tried several times, then finally, my phone DIES!! HOW CAN THIS BE!??? No phone! I have no charger either, now what!? I grab the other backpacks and dump everything out! My friends and his daughters clothes from them changing at Atlantis, my sons clothes, TWO CELL PHONES! A charger for an iPhone, which I do no have. Two wallets, CASH, glasses and a wrinkled up $20 bill!....

 

I go to use one of the phones, it needs a PASSWORD! OMG, I don't have my friends pw. I grab the other phone, which belongs to his daughters. Bingo, no pw needed!! I start to call my other friend, which happens to be the phone owners uncle. HE ANSWERS!!! My wife, my sons are all there! FINALLY, I hear their voices! First thing I hear, we love you, we miss you! And my son, saying 'dad, I 'm so sorry, I didn't know you told us to be back at 330, I would've been there'. I said, its ok, I know YOU would've, its ok. As long as you guys are on the boat together, that's all that matters. I was teary eyed, but obviously had to act like I was ok and that I was in control. They asked me what happened? Where did I go? Where am I? Am I scared? No, of course I'm not, lol! They didn't need to know

 

After talking to them and my friend, the brother of the one that didn't show up (let me explain, the friend that didn't show up, his brother went also), it was time to say goodbye. The phone line was bad, I think because they were getting further and further at sea. I did hear him say FACEBOOK! Finally, good bye, be careful dad and they were all gone.

 

I looked at the working phone, I realized that it only had 36% of life left, and the charger was NOT for this phone. I sent a few texts to my boys and wife and one of them answered. I also texted my friend, he replied. So at least I knew I could contact someone if I needed too.

 

I couldn't rest in the room, it was too hot. So I went downstairs. They had two pc's, so I hopped on one. I went straight to Facebook and found my friend, he purchased an internet package just to keep in touch with me. We spoke for a while, trying to make a plan. My wife and boys talked a little, I finally told them to GO HAVE FUN! You're on the ship, ENJOY IT! I'll be ok! GO! So go they did.

 

I didn't want to go back to the room, so I started posting on FB. A few friends started replying, they could not believe that ME, xxxx would ever miss a ship! Then next thing you know, my T/A sends me a chat! Can you believe it, my TA? Which type of TA would do that? As soon as she hears of my ordeal, she goes into mother hen mode, lol Where am I, am I safe? What do you have on you? Etc.. I explained the whole story and she made a few great recommendations. Start looking for flights NOW. I explained to her what Alfred said, she again strongly recommended that I start looking now. So glad I did, I'll explain shortly.

 

The part that amazes me the most was that my travel agent, who happened to be celebrating Thanksgiving, was actually talking to ME, comforting me and actually making plans for ME! I felt so at ease, finally. I actually felt like my life was going back to normal, I spoke to my family, friends, my TA, lol, and even a few on FB.

 

So, I began to look for air.

 

The reason that the recommendation NOT to get air was just in case I ran into an issues at the embassy. What if I got air, but then I didn't have my pp ready?

 

But when I started to look for air, I was shocked. I know a few of you have mentioned that it's easy to get out, it's easy to find air, etc. I went on Expedia, I could not find a flight from Nassau to Jamaica. I got stuck on land on a Monday, I wanted to fly out on Tues and wait for the ship in Jamaica and join it on Weds. The only flight were in the AM on Tues., but that's when I was going to be at the embassy! So the next option came up. A 7 AM flight on Weds., lands in Ft Lauderdale at 7:40. Then an 11:00 flight from Ft Lauderdale landing in MoBay at 11:40 (time change, just in case the flamers start questioning this).

 

I decide 'lets to this'. The price was $360, I think about it for a few minutes, I start recalling what Alfred said but then think to myself, 'I have two days to get pp., and what if prices go up or if the flight sell out'? So I booked it! By this time it went up $10!! True story!

 

I go back up to the room, its like an oven now. I try to turn the light on, but it doesn't turn on. I hit the switch on the wall, the AC turns off.. oops, wrong switch! I try to turn back on, no more AC! I'm sitting up on the bed (earlier, when I was sitting on the chair, I noticed tiny bugs crawling across the bed, I think they were tiny ants) but cant sleep. So I head back downstairs. By this time, it's almost 11PM... I can hear loud TV's from the other rooms, I hear sirens outside, no guns though As I open my door, there's a HUGE cockroach in front of my door, lol! It's ok, I used to be an exterminator years ago, so I just ignored it.

 

I go downstairs and tell the gentleman that my ac is out. He goes up but cant fix it. He offered me another room, but decline. He asked again, are you sure, its going to be hotter later tonight. No, its ok I say. HUGE MISTAKE!

 

I mentioned before that I would explain what was going on 'on the other end'... with my wife and family....

 

My son and wife left Atlantis, they didn't want to but I said that they had to, I'd meet them there. They left, and as SOON as they walked on the ship, they saw my son, my friend and his daughter! My wife said, 'what's wrong with you?! Where were you? Why didn't you come back'! 'We said 330, xxxx is waiting waiting for you! OMG'!!!!".

 

This is when they all began calling me. I've estimated that by this time, I was already in the van heading there way, so it wouldn't have mattered. My wife stated that Royal was being compassionate, telling her that they'll try to wait. Sail time was 5:00 PM and it was already getting close. My wife and kids kept begging them to please wait, he'll be here any minute.

 

My wife could hear them and the captain (or his crew) talking. They kept asking, how many people? Where are they? Have you contacted them? At one point, she even heard Captain Johnny thru the walkie talkie or phone say, 'we can't wait for ONE person'! That was it. My wife, sons, friends are begging, but no dice.

 

My wife starts balling, my son and friend want to get off the ship. They are strongly advised against doing this by Royal and family. Royal tells my wife that he's in good hands, he'll be ok, we'll take care of him. The gangplank was down, they start to raise it.. the boat begins to move..

 

And this is where I came into the picture, this is when I drove up in the golf cart.. but as I said, it was to late. On the boat, my wife and kids go to the room. My friend is apologizing over and over and over. Everyone is numb and in shock. They all try to contact me, but to no avail. So they all head to the rooms. The party is officially over.

 

yes, still friends. he felt terrible, all week long. I did tell him straight up: When I first saw you, I wanted to run up to you like I was going to give you a hug, but then punch you in face! lol.... it crossed my mind, but I'm not that type of person. I try to forgive.

 

When I spoke my family, he came on the phone and kept saying sorry over and over. He said there was money in his backpack and to take whatever I wanted. I felt bad though knowing that he wanted his daughter to have fun too, so I didn't take to much. In hindsight, I should've, my expenses we HIGH, as i'll explain later.

 

The good thing, he's a dentist, so we have lots and lots of 'free' dental work coming out way, lol!

 

I have to step away for a while, I can't just sit here and type all day. i'll do as someone suggested and put the rest on Word then paste here.

 

First, the 3 members that went to the ship w/o their cards WERE able to get on, since I had them in my possession.

 

Why didn't I go to the ship and see if my son was there? As I mentioned, the what if's start taking over, i.e., what if my friend lost my son and my friend went to the ship w/o my son, and my son was alone at Atlantis with no clothes, no money, no phone, etc. Yes, I would've gone back, but what if I couldn't find him, or what if he attempted to get back to the ship on his own. Sorry, but those are the things that started crossing my mind.

 

I received one text during the night from my oldest son, it only said 'Dad'.. I replied and nothing. Kept trying, this drove me crazy not know what was going on. Nothing I could do but hope that everything was ok.

 

I barely got any sleep, but got up and dressed at 7:30. Recall that I had that spare tee shirt, but I didn't want to wear it yet, I wanted to wear it once I got on the plane, so I wouldn't offend any of those sitting next to me, lol.

 

I put all of the important stuff into my backpack, put all of the clothes and stuff into the others. I headed downstairs, checked out and sat on the couch until 7:55. I then headed to Mr Photo.

 

They were open, I took two pics and headed down the street. I felt so much better, now that it was daylight. I still stood out, contrary to what some flamers posted earlier. I don't think they know which part of town I was in. True, I never felt unsafe, but I did stand out.

 

As I got closer to the street where the embassy was at, I noticed a Hilton and many people going out and about. I can see why one of the flamers posted earlier that people come and go, and feel safe. But again, I wasn't in this area the night before.

 

I arrived at the embassy, there's a long long bench, but only one person in front of me. I headed to the gate and told the soldier that I'm an American citizen and here for a pp. He tells me where to go.

 

I enter the small office, I explained who I was and what I was doing there. I think they were expecting me or aware that someone missed the ship and would be coming in.

 

Now here's where I made a huggggeeee mistake!

 

Security at the embassy ask me to put all my possessions on the table, similar to airport security. They ask what I have in my possession. I tell him what I know I have, then I vaguely describe what's in the others. He asks, so why don't you know what's in there? I say, I do, but this is not mine. He says, WHAT! AND BACKS AWAY FROM THE BACKPACK! I had to quickly say, it's my friends and his daughters, I missed the ship and got stuck with it! The reason he panicked, is because he thought someone gave it to me outside before entering the embassy, and we know what has happened in the past when this happens (terrorist). So huge mistake on my part for not clarifying it at the beginning.

 

Now they take everything out and I have wallets, cameras, phones, etc. I really do look like a thief or pickpocket, but they understand. I go thru xray and finally told to enter another building.

 

Alfred again, was really looking out for me. He called the day before, even though it was a legal holiday in the Bahamas, Columbus day and told them of my dilemma. They were expecting me and within and hour and a half, I had my passport.

 

They did ask me many questions to verify that I was who I said I was, so pay close attention if they do this. I totally understand that they need to do this, they have to be 100% certain that those entering the u.s.a are who they say they are.

 

I have my passport, its a beautiful day, I purchased my air the night before, I finally feel that everything is going to be ok.

 

I head over to McDonalds so that I can call Alfred. He answers! Asked how I am, did I do everything, etc. He's happy that I did just so and cant believe how quickly they did everything! I thank him for everything, and explain to him that I already got my air. He's happy, but then gives me a few 'warnings/heads up'. He states to be at the airport early, I MIGHT run into some issues, mostly questioning. Next, he needs to call RCL Jamaica to let them know that I'm on my way. He starts looking for numbers but can't find them. He suggest that I call the 800 number to Royal and let them know of my plans.

 

I thank him again for everything. Oh, I failed to mention that after he left me at the motel, a few hours later he came back to check up on me. During that time, he took a few people out to a tanker, cleared the boat and then came back to check up on ME! What a guy, I'll never forget Alfred for the time he took in helping me out.

 

Honestly, I'm not sure if it is his job to do this or not, I really don't think it was, but I do question why did I never hear or see anyone from Royal? Recall that they told my wife on the ship that they would take care of me, and that I'm in good hands. idk, but thanks Alfred.

 

And this reminds me of one more thing: When my wife and kids and friends were begging them to wait, they asked her if I had money? She said of course. What about a credit card? I think so. Phone? Yes. I think that they were asking these questions so that they could leave, knowing that I had the necessities. This is when my wife heard Capt. Johnny say, ' we can't wait for ONE person’.

 

With my docs, I decided to get the heck out of town. The only working phone I had was dying, so I started to look for a radio shack or something similar. I texted my family and they responded. I asked for the password to the other phone with the charger. I finally got a response and now had two phones.

 

I grabbed a cab and asked them to take me to a hotel close to the airport. We made two stops, one was ok, but $400 a night. Went to another, sold out. These were boutique style, so I asked the driver, don't you have like a Hyatt, Hilton, etc. He says the Melia is similar. So we headed there, stopping at a Radio Shack first to get a charger for my phone.

 

Room was available, only $185 a night! I have to say, this place is NICE! I check in then decide to call my beloved TA I explain to her what Alfred said, that I needed to call RCI Jamaica and let them know of my plans. Immediately she asks for all of the details, i.e., flights, times, ect. She says she'll take care of the rest! I can't believe this, one last thing for me to worry about! Advice: Go with a reputable TA, and not the ones that might offer you the 'world', but those that offer world class service! Thanks Carol!

 

FYI, cab cost me $40 CASH obviously, and $20 for the charger (just stating this to show how quick cash can go).

 

I won't bore you with the details at the Melia, but one thing did bum me out, and I have pics, lol: I'm sitting at the beach, finally was able to fall asleep, it's about 4 or 5 pm. I open my eyes and what do I see, ships leaving Nassau, lol! Two CCL ships and I believe one older RCL ship. My first reaction is to flip them off, lol/jk. But I was imagining what it was like leaving port, but being ON the ship.

 

I'm thinking, one more day, just one more day, we're almost there.

 

Just another fyi: I had to spend two nights in Nassau.

 

Charges: Room service $30 for club sandwich, fries, coke and tip. Drinks at pool bar, $8 for a beer, $10 for a BBC.

 

I get up early and get to the airport at 5:15 am for my 7:15 AM flight. The gate thru security is closed and a long line is forming. It opens, I go thru and NO issues. I didn't know this, but Bahamas security works under U.S. laws or agreement, idk, but once you go thru customs here, you don't have to do it again when you land in the U.S.

 

We're at the gate waiting for our 737 on Bahamas Air. But there is no plane. 6:00, 6:30, 6:45. A man next to me says, 'I hope they don't cancel the flight'! I asked him why they would? He says 'if they don't sell enough seats, I've seen this happen with Bahamas Air'! No way, this cant be happening. Next thing you know, they roll up a small prop plane, OUR plane!

 

We board, we're in the air and arrive in FTL a little before 8:00 AM.

 

I go straight to Caribbean Air and check in.

 

Advise: I know I have a great TA, but I wanted peace of mind. So I called Royal. After waiting, they confirm that Jamaica is expecting me, but he says he'll be sending an email to the ship just to be 100% certain.

 

I'm stopped at security in FTL, they go thru my packbacks. Again, the wallets, phones, etc. I did a quick explanation and no more questions from them. But, there was a bottle of water, suntan lotion and something else that they had to confiscate. I was slightly concerned that these items made it thru the Bahamas, what it others attempt this? Anyhow, I'm on my way to Jamaica!

 

In flight, I met a nice gentleman that used to live in Jamaica. He asked my purpose of visiting, and I explain the story to him. BTW, by this time I spoke to my family at the Melia, and my friend decided to rent a van and pick me up at MoBay. I said, no, it's ok, I'll get a cab. I don't want you guys driving in Jamaica (I've been there before). He insisted in getting me.. ok. Anyhow, the gentleman on the plane says, I'm going thru Fallmoth, I can have my driver drop you off! I explain that I already have transportation, and he strongly suggests against my friend driving.. I thank him and we leave the plane.

 

Jamaican immigration/customs is terrible, but I eventually got out... I step out, and I hear my name being called.

 

It was my wife, two boys and my friend (not the one that didn't show up, lol)! Wow, I'm finally here! In no way am I comparing myself to a POW or a soldier returning from war, but wow, I can totally understand how they feel when they come 'home'. My youngest son comes up to me, I'm so sorry dad, I really am. I didn't know I had to be there at 330. Over and over, sorry. I tell him no need to worry, I'm here now. Hugs all the way around, a quick beer and we're on our way to the rest of the group (at a beach).

 

We discuss the ordeal, on the ship and off the ship.... Now I start thinking, I'm going to see the person that made me miss the ship! What am I going to say, what am I going to do?!

 

We get to the beach, he comes straight to me, hugs me and apologizes over and over. What can I do, what can I say? I didn't say it was ok, but just nodded my head. I was just glad to be back!

 

I told the group that I wanted to head back to the ship early, JUST IN CASE I RUN INTO ANY ISSUES.

 

Get to the ship, we had a drink at the port and decide to get on the ship! Wife goes thru, my two boys then me. 'ERRRRRRRR' sounds the alarm! I cant believe it.. they try again, 'ERRRR"! Sorry sir, we cant let you board! 'What do you mean you cant let me board'?! 'You're not longer on the ship'! 'I know, but I am now'! 'Sorry sir, you have to go to Jamaican Customs'! 'OMG, no! I already did that when I landed via air in MoBay, I don't get it! Please, can I just get on'? NO!

 

I tell my family, get on the ship, I'll be back shortly. NO, NO, NO they all say, not this again dad'! I say, I'm going to be ok, I'll be back’!

 

Good thing that Customs is right there by the ship. I go to Customs, they ask for paperwork. They asked for copies of flight info., pp, etc. I explained to the official that I already landed at MoBay and went thru Customs. I had to explain my story and he finally says ok, go thru.

 

When I was not allowed to enter the ship the first time, security contacted a gentleman on the ship. He also said to go to customs and we'll take care of this.

 

So, once I was cleared, I head to the ship. On the way there, a worker comes up to me and says 'are you so and so? Yes. He says, my pleasure meeting you. I talked to you earlier, but have also been working on your case since you missed the boat'! 'you should have no more problems'! I thank him, he enters the ship thru the employees entrance and I head to main entrance.

 

I enter, and 'ERRRRRRRRRR', alarm goes off! Security again says NO. Another one says YES, other NO! OMG, Please let me get on! The one that I'm standing by is the one saying no, the one at the other station is saying yes! I explain to them that I just spoke to someone outside of the ship and he clarified that I'm cleared. After a minute or two, they FINALLY say get on!

 

I go thru and head straight to a hiding place, the pub! I call my wife and tell her that I'm on! YEA!!!!!!!!! I'm waiting to hear for any announcements with my name. I hear none, so I head up to the room

 

Cabin steward welcomes me back, she's happy to see me. She told my wife the day before that she would never forgive my friend, lol!

 

She gives me a new key, ship is moving and I'm good!

 

I head to Guest Services. They give me another key, welcome me back. We had over $300 in OBC, but there was some confusion as to where it all went.

 

When I missed the ship, my account was CLOSED! All of my records were wiped out, the only thing that displayed was a credit into my wife's account, that was it. So the credit that I had left was called 'bad credit' and then rolled into my wife's account as 'credit'. It was confusing but at the time seemed to make sense.

 

During the remaining days, I occasionally ran into issues with my card. In some locations, I didn't exist! They would have to 'freeform' a receipt and have my sign. Not sure why, but this occurred a few times.

 

Thanks so much for compiling this! As I was reading through the thread I was wishing I knew how to compile it so others could read the whole story all together...and then voila...there you had done it. Thanks.

 

15) Once your on the ship and it HAS LEFT PORT, lol, take care of your business at Guest Services. Also, don't assume that your account is 'ok or fixed'!

16) Be on bard time means BE ON BOARD! Period! They stated that they waited for me, the truth is that they did not! It left at exactly 5:00 PM. Perhaps the ship could've left earlier since all were on board (maybe this is what they meant by waited). IDK, but again, I do not blame Royal nor the captain for leaving.

 

I'm sure I'm sure I 'll have a few more, but the time, the energy and the money wasted is tremendous. The cruise was not the same once I got on. Yes, it felt good to be back on the ship, but I was EXHAUSTED, drained and no longer viewed it as fun.

 

We've estimated OUR costs close to $1000, hotel, motel, air, cabs, passport, food. Now that doesn't include our phone bill. Also, the costs that my friend incurred, the internet, the van he rented, HIS phone. Robert, many many thanks to you! He took my family under his wing when I was not there. He organized things, made calls, etc. And then there's my TA! Thank you for 'talking' to me when you were with your family! And for contacting Royal and for constantly checking up on me!

 

And finally, my family. Wow, you just don't know how much your loved and missed until something like this happens. and vice versa. I know it sounds over dramatic, but honestly, I felt like I was gone for a long time and just returned from a long mission!

 

It's good to be in the U.S. of A., with my family and friends.

 

I'll answer any questions. I hope this helps and sorry for taking so long... life happens.

 

Thanks so much for sharing your story. I gather there were a few flamers. Please ignore them. For some reason folks always find a reason to flame others on every thread!!! The reason I say "I gather" is that I skipped all of the posts that weren't yours. Only interested in your story and the facts. Thanks again for sharing and glad it all turned out ok in the end.

[ciera123]

Thank you so much for doing his report. I read all your posts, and I'm amazed that you could keep your sense of humor. I would have had a meltdown of epic proportions. :rolleyes: I've always worried about this exact thing happening, and so we arrive back at the ship way before we need to....just makes me feel better. So sorry you had to go through this, but you did it for the right reason! You're a good Dad! :)

Edited October 26, 2014 by ciera123