First timer with family - on Independence of Seas

[APG59]

Can anybody offer advice on the best way to do the shore excursions. We are doing the Mediterranean cruise which includes Rome and Lisbon but the RC organised tours seem very expensive. But are they the best way to see the sights?

[Ashland]

Can anybody offer advice on the best way to do the shore excursions. We are doing the Mediterranean cruise which includes Rome and Lisbon but the RC organised tours seem very expensive. But are they the best way to see the sights?

You might want to check out the private tour company RomeInLimo for a Rome excursion....We used them and their a very much recommended alternative to the overpriced ship excursions.

[Keith1010]

Welcome to Cruise Critic.

 

You will find a lot of recommendations for Rome on the Italy Ports Of Call Board at http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=-1&f=595 and the other Med board for Lisbon at http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=-1&f=234

 

Keith

[APG59]

Thanks Keith 1010 will do. Do you also know whether we would need any US dollars on board. We have paid gratuities in advance.

[Keith1010]

You are very welcome.

 

You might just want to have a few USA dollars on board should you order room service and would like to give a small cash tip.

 

Keith

[SbbquilterUT]

We read Rick Steve's Mediterranean Cruise ports book - gave us a good idea on where to do it ourselves. Then read Trip Advisor reviews as well as the boards here to hire companies where needed - second Rome in Limo for a great day.

[jocap]

You are very welcome.

 

You might just want to have a few USA dollars on board should you order room service and would like to give a small cash tip.

 

Keith

If it's Indy from Southampton, the crew seem satisfied with £ or €- which you'll have for the Med cruise. You don't have to buy any $$

[cb at sea]

Before you start booking any excursion, get guidebooks! Research your ports, so you'll know what you want to do and see. THEN, you can decide if it's a DIY thing, or if you need a guide. THEN you decide if a private guide or a ship's excursion is for you. Research is KEY in getting the most from your time ashore. Libraries have guidebooks in the reference section, and that costs you nothing. Or, you can buy a guidebook...or google your ports, and take notes.

Whatever you do...DO YOUR RESEARCH!