Cruise 1/14-1/23, 2011

By Cathie

• February 9, 2011

Our 6th cruise first time out of Miami. Embarkment was very organized and moved quickly and easily. A little disappointed that there wasn't champagne waiting for us when we came obnboard but I guess the economy is resposible for that. Our cabin was very clean and orderly. The room stewards made a point of introducing themselves the first night. Very nice touch. All the ports were excellent except the first Ramana, Dominican Republic. If you can, book an excursion from the boat, not like we did and just got off to find a taxi. For a ride t o the beach they wan't to :laugh:charge us $105.00 (for four). Then the man said if they could find some people it would go down in price didn't say how much. Then they loaded it up but now there wasn't enough room for us. After considering going back to the boat we found a person who would take us for $20 a person. More than we ussually pay at the other ports but we went anyway. The beach was excellent but the "roads" were terrible. Most of the roads were not paved. Some where partially paved but looked like they were in the process of being dug up. Shacks all over. Very poor country. We were told that they have only been cruise ships going there about 5 weeks. If they want to continue they better get their act together. From there Tortola, as alwyas beaches were wonderful.

From there we wnt to Tortola. From there to Barbados (which has been our favorite for a few years now) Booked an excursion to the beach. It rained for about 20 mins so they cancelled it. We had a choise of getting a credit or taking another one of the 3 tours they still had room on (at no additional charge). When we got our final bill they had cgarged us the full priceof the tour. Well now we know, they lied. Our last stop was St. Kitts. My new favorite. Then 2 days at sea. then it was over

The food was very good and at Cagney's (WE WENT 3X) was excellent. As always.

The disenbarkment went wonderly and organiaed. Good job