AndiD

I am ALL ABOUT the research! Why, that is part of the fun - the anticipation and the planning! In my old school ways, I create a document of all kinds of trip notes: of the ports we visit, including sightseeing, dining/refreshment places, transportation options; and even of the ship itself, and I send it to my phone to take everywhere with offline access. And even if I have been to some ports before, I try to find new "hidden gems" or different attractions to try out. I take advantage of ship shore excursions for sure, but also will find a different way to see what most appeals to us, if need be. Great post!

I know that I prepaid our Canal cruise gratuities when Princess announced the increase...but I don't think I would have booked a new cruise for the small savings...

I am right there with you as well! Whenever a little bonus money comes into the budget I automatically think - CRUISE! And now it is a bit more challenging since we both retired.... I am of the philosophy that if something were to happen to one or both of us tomorrow, I would greatly regret not having seen the world's splendors; I would NOT regret that my house needs a bit of updating or having a new car every three years. It is okay if those things are important to some - everyone has different priorities - but for me....GET ME ON A SHIP!

Thanks for the great review, John - sounds like a wonderful week. Does MSC still allow smoking in the staterooms or on the balconies? The last time we checked on them, they did, which caused us to shy away. If they have updated their policy perhaps we can consider them again.

I'm ALWAYS in for tacos!

Glad you had such a great cruise despite the somewhat rocky beginning! I have not done a holiday cruise yet but it sounds wonderful. Thanks for the great review.

I was reading about this.....I think I'll pass....

Was wondering about this ship so thank you for the great review! This is definitely on our bucket list!

Great review, Jan - thank you! I'm guessing that most people feel the same way you do about this ship - hence the lower ratings and resultant lower prices. I may try NCL, but probably will choose a different ship!

Great review, Mary Lou! We very often feel the same when coming back to the ship in Bermuda - we are hot and tired and usually just head up to the buffet. I never thought of ordering dinner to eat on the balcony while docked - that would be perfect! I followed your ship on this trip and knew that you had departed Bermuda early so my thoughts were with you and it does seem that that was the best move to make sure everyone and the ship got back safely. And as you say.....we'll jut have to go back!

I remember the I Love Lucy movie on that ship - that was part of the fuel for my cruise dreams even back then - that must have been something special to be on that ship! We took the Infinity twice: through the Panama Canal and in Alaska. She is older now, but we still love that ship! I hope that you can get back to Hawaii some day; if you go back to the Hilton Hawaiian Village you could just stay right there and soak up the atmosphere....it was wonderful!

"Wonderful repeat cruise" View full cruise review

Thanks, Shari - Hope you can get back to Hawaii some day!

Thanks for the good wishes! We'll be happy to post a review when we return.

Great review, Jan! We have never been to NYC - and admit it seems a bit intimidating, so thanks for the restaurant suggestions. Curious - how did your cabin size/layout, etc. compare to other lines...and was the stateroom service good? Do they provide ice buckets or "on request"? Bahama Art and Handicraft - I will remember it! We seek out those kinds of places everywhere we go and I treasure my chosen souvenirs (or jewelry) from them! Thanks!

Great review, Jan - thanks. We do like the Frog and Onion Pub for the tradition of it (and a good burger!) I will remember Spittal Pond for our next visit - that sounds like the kind of place we would definitely enjoy.

Great review, Mary Lou - this remains one of my favorite cruises and favorite ships - no doubt that we'll do it again!

This is tragic - you are right, Shari - so much violence!

Well howdy, fellow Illinoisan! Yes - we are not too far from you and do travel up your way often! Been a heck of a winter again! You have some great cruises coming up - enjoy!

Jan, You should grab any chance you get to sail on the Royal - she is a fabulous ship! I did try the Sea Walk - it is pretty cool at night when it is underlit in blue! We always fly in at least one day ahead and usually we stay at an ocean-front hotel; this time we chose one close to the airport and the port: Hilton Marina. It was okay....but not nearly as nice as the Hilton Beach! Then again, it was not nearly the cost either! The people were very nice at the Hilton Marina and it was within a 1/2 mile of some nice restaurants. It also has a "bus stop" for the intracoastl waterway so is accessible to all of those stops. We have also stayed at the Hyatt Pier 66 which is right across the street - that was very nice! Next time I might try the Embassy Suites.

"Beautiful ship - great Itinerary" Click here to view the cruise review

Thanks much, Crazies! We leave for Ft. Lauderdale tomorrow and board on Tuesday - so looking forward to the Royal.

I agree! Even with that much notice it is extremely disappointing and could be disruptive to other major life events going on in people's lives. Let's hope this month goes quickly for you!